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55,602	1,524	1	686	2,548	Neo looked around all the other spiderman's in the room once he entered, it felt pretty weird to stand between so many of the real deals. He guessed he kinda felt the same as the spiderman actor showed in the 90's animated tv show that he watched on fox kids when he was little, taken from a world where spidy is nothing but an tv show and meeting real spiderman's. He was likely the last of the spiderman's to take his mask off, though he already noticed Fist was being honest when he said they were all among friends he still felt reluctant to trust all of them, he can sense when someone is honest but he cant sense if people are evil or not and since non of them had said anything about them being trustworthy he could not really trust them, besides most were real parkers, he felt like he was the odd one out, again... Still as most trusted Fist his words about being between friends he decided to just do as they were asked and took of his mask, though he moved to the back of the group. As he listened to Fist, he was the first to look to the door where he felt two new aura's were about to enter though the door. Goblins... It was ironic but from all the canon like enemies, they were the only ones that he has never seen, maybe Mutate was the closest but then again she was also the furthest from any real canon villain, still he had played the games, read the comics and watched the tv shows, his biggest issue was, which of the many incarnations where they dealing with, the scouts sounded a lot like the 90's show at least... Then it became time for questions and he had some, and a remark he would smartly put as a question. He lifted his hand and once they said he could speak he started. "I got a couple, but first I want to throw an idea in the party, this King; Could it be that due to the Hammers abilities its impossible to make duplicates of it? Even in Asgard its the only one and they made it so if more could exist they would have been able to do so in case Thor lost the damned thing, regardless I guess the King would as the name suggest be the leader and likely the original Norman, most times with Duplicate-man, once you knock out the original, all the clones get canceled and forced back, so yeah maybe that is an possibility" he let that sink in for a second before continuing, he would get his answers afterwards. "for my questions, I Know there are a lot of different Goblin incarnations, different powers of tricks and all, so I would like some list of known powers and stuff for each of the 3 types, if we know more about what were dealing with the better we can handle it, plus who knows I may remember the tricks of each incarnation if Ive seen that one before" the next bit he whispered to himself "though I never met one in real live" Then he spoke out loud "second off, can I get a map or something cause I dont live in New york so.... yeah..."	Name - Patrick Campwood Alias - Spiderman-Neo or Neo-Spiderman (also called Neo by friends and allies (like how Spiderman is often called Spidy)) Earth # - 000-X Powers - -all basic spiderman powers though he is more oriented on speed and agility instead of strength -Organic web shooters from his wrists -instead of a spider-sense that feels danger he can feel aura's, using this he is able to feel those in his area and even tell if they are lying or scared and such, this gives a spider-sense when the enemy is attacking physically (trough he cant really feel the exact movements unless its a big body part like a huge tail of the lizard that is attacking him) but as bullets and such do not possess this live energy, he cant feel these coming at all, also if he is familiar with a specific aura from being around them for a long period of time, then he can feel them from much further, trough he can only sense a general direction and only strong emotions (such as fear) -increase in intelligence but mostly to a degree where he can make things like spider tracers and a kind if distress call on cop's radio frequencies to alert cops where he has trapped crooks -retractable claws on the fingernails, where they look normally but can grow into sharp points with a density similar to ivory. Weaknesses - -While his Aura sense is formible with finding and knowing more about the incoming danger, it cant pick up anything that is not alive, making him weak to bullets, missiles, swords and so on -his claws are strong and dangerous but they are not unbreakable and will hurt -the real spidy had an enhanced healing but at best Neo has the advantage where heavy wounds and only heavy wounds (meaning small minor stuff will not be effected) stop bleeding real fast -due to past experiences before all this crazyness started he has some social fears, he can escape all that when wearing the masks, but if he has to live without the mask and feels that he will spend a lot of time with a group of people he can close himself off to them fearing the pasts events happening again Personality - most will come during the rp, however he will try to make spiderman type of jokes, the social fear issue is due to the following: getting hated and targeted for no clear reason aside being different due to having experienced slight brain damage at a very young age, nothing that effects his abilities or daily live but he has developed mentually at a different rate then normal (though at his current age this is not that noticeble anymore) and may have some other ways of viewing things or doing things, being different compared to "normal"people) Age: 26 Appearance - BRIEF Bio - A few months ago his entire live was suddenly turned upside down. At first the entire world was like the real world, no people with powers existed outside tv shows and comic books, even spiderman himself has never been more then the comics we all have read, the tv cartoons we all have watched and the real action movies we all know, it was a normal real world live. Yet one day Patrick woke up with knowledge that made no sense, he knew he had these powers, he knew he had hidden a costume as well, the original outfit. He had no idea what has happened so he did the next best thing, go out as he knew he could do now and try to figure out what has happened, why his own reality has changed the way it did. During this time things escalated, at the start all he had to worry about was simple drug dealers and armed robers, but one day a large humanoid snake appeared who seemed to have been hit by the same issue, changed by what ever happened but sadly for this one, he lost his memories and acted on instinct, wanting to go home, this never changed for the man... and so stuff kept happening, things straight from the spiderman world such as not one but 2 doc ock's showed up (one with the stolen prototype of the arms and one that wanted the prototype back), venom and carnage but also enemies unique to his reality showed up off course... During these events the original suite was broken beyond repair and so he made his own unique outfit you can see above while things got worse they also got better and then comes the time of this rp Notes - he has some spider trackers and cop warning systems with him at all time Skills: due to his powers he has an increased intelligence on a more mechanical level, trough without any studys in the subject he can only make small simple things, He has made his personal martial arts, he knows some Japanse himself Response to Spider Fist - While it was surprising to hear all this from a guy standing in some kind of portal or hole between realms as Patrick guessed what it really was, he believed the man, for 2 things. one he was clearly a mix between spiderman and the iron fists, two marvel characters that have always been hero's with nothing more then the right intentions, if you mixed the great responcibility and the peacefull and justice loving nature of Iron fist, then the man cant be bad second he had seen a lot of weird stuff up till now so this was to be expected eventually. "Guess this could be my best bet on finding what the hell happened to my reality as well, not that I am complaining but I still want to know what changed it all, so yeah count me in, sounds like fun anyway as well, seeing all the real spidy's from different realms" Neo stood up but stopped suddenly "wait when we return time will continue from this point on right, not that I just go missing here, got a wife and child that need me in that case" Spider Fist nodded to Neo's question "yes time shall continue from this point on when you return, nothing will change outside your experiences and knowledge" "thank god, yeah count me in then, something in the multiverse mixed this world with what was seen as a comic book so time to go to the source" With that Neo stepped though the portal as it closed behind him, freezing the time of his world untill his return from his point of view
55,603	1,524	2	1,966	2,618	SPIDER - ROGUE Like the others, Spider-Rogue removed his mask, a wide grin on his face as he looked around. He swiveled left, then right, then left again. He was really surrounded by other Spidermen, other beings just like him. It had always been a dream or perhaps something even less tangible than that. More like a frivolous, hopeful, prayer. He chuckled before walking near the front of the group to see. It seemed like all of the other Spidermen was older and taller than him. It was a bit annoying but he'd taken down bigger opponents before, it was nice to have tall allies for once. Hearing the explanation of the situation sent a cold fear up his spine. The Goblin in his universe was no picnic in the park, in fact, the kid had taken out three blocks before he could take him down. Another Spiderman's comments and questions however had replaced that fear with worry. Though it was not for the danger they would all be putting themselves in but the danger that a fellow Spiderman was in instead. He stepped out from the others, his hazel eyes staring a furrow gaze out towards the others. Glancing at everyone with seriousness, he rubbed the back of his head then swept it casually to his side. "Hold on, shouldn't we be discussing saving our ally? I mean... he's one of us and he's trapped out there. What's the plan for saving Spiderman? W-Well this Earth's Spiderman."	Name - Peter Murdock-Parker Often goes simply by Murdock Alias - The Spider Age - 26 Earth # - 1501 Powers - Standard Spider-Man powers Standard Daredevil powers Combined Spidey/Radar Sense Martial Arts Training Weaknesses - Standard Spider-Man weaknesses Standard Daredevil weaknesses Blind Can't webswing as well as other Spider-Men Personality Charming, Fearless, Morally Flexible Standard Spidey costume, but with black instead of blue, and the 'lenses' in the mask aren't actually lenses, just blacked out reflective pieces. He looks more like Matt Murdock than Peter Parker. Refer to Charlie Cox's Matt Murdock if you need a visual. Peter Murdock-Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider at age 16. He was at a public exhibition for 'safe' nuclear experiments when the spider, irradiated by accident during a demonstration, bit him on the back of the neck. He felt dizzy, and his vision blurred, before he passed out. He awoke in the hospital, only able to 'see' dancing colored blurs. He was blind. However, he started to notice that he had strange new abilities when he awoke. He was stronger and faster than before, able to cling to walls, and was able to sense oncoming danger. However, his senses (excluding sight, of course) were also unbelievably enhanced. He adjusted to this new life as anyone would, and was greatly supported by his uncle, Ben Parker. Peter's parents (who, when married, hyphenated their last names) died in an accident when he was very young, and was taken in by Ben and May Parker, Peter's matrilinial uncle and aunt. May developed cancer not long after, and died, leaving Ben to take care of Peter by himself. Unknown to Ben, Peter's new therapist, Mr. Stick (as he called himself), had been teaching Peter a kind of martial arts as a way of release. The whole spider fiasco turned Peter away from a career in science, and he decided instead to pursue law in college. Meanwhile, Ben's boxing career had started winding down. He was getting older, and wouldn't be able to sustain it for much longer. A rather shady opportunity came to him one day, a large sum of money in exchange for throwing a match. He reluctantly accepted. When the time came, however, he did just the opposite; he won the match in record time. Battlin' Ben Parker finally had the glory he'd been waiting for his entire career. It was short-lived. He found hitmen waiting for him in his home, and was murdered. Peter had just gotten his graduate's degree at the time, and had been accepted into law school. The loss was devastating. He realized that he'd been given incredible powers, and never used them to anyone's benefit other than his own. Could he have saved Ben? Probably not, since he wouldn't have been there. He realized, though, that he could have helped many more people, and thus made it his responsibility to do so. Since then, he's taken up defending New York full-time. By day, as Peter Murdock, Attorney at Law, and by night as The Spider. Notes - - He may not be quite as smart science-wise as other Spider-Man, but he graduated law school. He recently opened up his own practice with a friend. - To shed some light on 'Morally-flexible," it simply means he's willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. The ends justify the means. Response to Spider Fist - "Well... If you really need me, I'm up to it. Let's go." He started walking away, when Spider-Fist grabbed his shoulder. "Other way, friend." "... Oh."
55,604	1,524	3	686	2,548	After the comment about having to save an this world spiderman Patrick finally walked to the front, the kid was really worried about this worlds spidy, he could feel it. "your right, that should be our first aim, but chances to save him will rise if we at least know more about what were going to be facing, the scouts seem to be pretty basic but what if we run into one of the other 2 types" Reason and duty, yeah they were pretty conflicting at this point go and save a fellow spidy first and know more about what were up against... "well that I my opinion at least, but yeah its a touch call"	Name - Patrick Campwood Alias - Spiderman-Neo or Neo-Spiderman (also called Neo by friends and allies (like how Spiderman is often called Spidy)) Earth # - 000-X Powers - -all basic spiderman powers though he is more oriented on speed and agility instead of strength -Organic web shooters from his wrists -instead of a spider-sense that feels danger he can feel aura's, using this he is able to feel those in his area and even tell if they are lying or scared and such, this gives a spider-sense when the enemy is attacking physically (trough he cant really feel the exact movements unless its a big body part like a huge tail of the lizard that is attacking him) but as bullets and such do not possess this live energy, he cant feel these coming at all, also if he is familiar with a specific aura from being around them for a long period of time, then he can feel them from much further, trough he can only sense a general direction and only strong emotions (such as fear) -increase in intelligence but mostly to a degree where he can make things like spider tracers and a kind if distress call on cop's radio frequencies to alert cops where he has trapped crooks -retractable claws on the fingernails, where they look normally but can grow into sharp points with a density similar to ivory. Weaknesses - -While his Aura sense is formible with finding and knowing more about the incoming danger, it cant pick up anything that is not alive, making him weak to bullets, missiles, swords and so on -his claws are strong and dangerous but they are not unbreakable and will hurt -the real spidy had an enhanced healing but at best Neo has the advantage where heavy wounds and only heavy wounds (meaning small minor stuff will not be effected) stop bleeding real fast -due to past experiences before all this crazyness started he has some social fears, he can escape all that when wearing the masks, but if he has to live without the mask and feels that he will spend a lot of time with a group of people he can close himself off to them fearing the pasts events happening again Personality - most will come during the rp, however he will try to make spiderman type of jokes, the social fear issue is due to the following: getting hated and targeted for no clear reason aside being different due to having experienced slight brain damage at a very young age, nothing that effects his abilities or daily live but he has developed mentually at a different rate then normal (though at his current age this is not that noticeble anymore) and may have some other ways of viewing things or doing things, being different compared to "normal"people) Age: 26 Appearance - BRIEF Bio - A few months ago his entire live was suddenly turned upside down. At first the entire world was like the real world, no people with powers existed outside tv shows and comic books, even spiderman himself has never been more then the comics we all have read, the tv cartoons we all have watched and the real action movies we all know, it was a normal real world live. Yet one day Patrick woke up with knowledge that made no sense, he knew he had these powers, he knew he had hidden a costume as well, the original outfit. He had no idea what has happened so he did the next best thing, go out as he knew he could do now and try to figure out what has happened, why his own reality has changed the way it did. During this time things escalated, at the start all he had to worry about was simple drug dealers and armed robers, but one day a large humanoid snake appeared who seemed to have been hit by the same issue, changed by what ever happened but sadly for this one, he lost his memories and acted on instinct, wanting to go home, this never changed for the man... and so stuff kept happening, things straight from the spiderman world such as not one but 2 doc ock's showed up (one with the stolen prototype of the arms and one that wanted the prototype back), venom and carnage but also enemies unique to his reality showed up off course... During these events the original suite was broken beyond repair and so he made his own unique outfit you can see above while things got worse they also got better and then comes the time of this rp Notes - he has some spider trackers and cop warning systems with him at all time Skills: due to his powers he has an increased intelligence on a more mechanical level, trough without any studys in the subject he can only make small simple things, He has made his personal martial arts, he knows some Japanse himself Response to Spider Fist - While it was surprising to hear all this from a guy standing in some kind of portal or hole between realms as Patrick guessed what it really was, he believed the man, for 2 things. one he was clearly a mix between spiderman and the iron fists, two marvel characters that have always been hero's with nothing more then the right intentions, if you mixed the great responcibility and the peacefull and justice loving nature of Iron fist, then the man cant be bad second he had seen a lot of weird stuff up till now so this was to be expected eventually. "Guess this could be my best bet on finding what the hell happened to my reality as well, not that I am complaining but I still want to know what changed it all, so yeah count me in, sounds like fun anyway as well, seeing all the real spidy's from different realms" Neo stood up but stopped suddenly "wait when we return time will continue from this point on right, not that I just go missing here, got a wife and child that need me in that case" Spider Fist nodded to Neo's question "yes time shall continue from this point on when you return, nothing will change outside your experiences and knowledge" "thank god, yeah count me in then, something in the multiverse mixed this world with what was seen as a comic book so time to go to the source" With that Neo stepped though the portal as it closed behind him, freezing the time of his world untill his return from his point of view
55,605	1,524	4	2,002	2,695	When Petey was told to take off his mask his ussual smile diminished. It wasn't only that he had to take off the barrier between Steel and Petey Parker but it was also a hassle to get off considering the head piece was mounted to just about everything else. Steel extended the legs on his arms and decoupled himself from the device allowing him to fall out of the harness. As Petey looked around the room he gave way to a smile imagining that if not for a few diffrent things in his past he could have been one of the spidermen he saw before him. When the group was open to questions, Petey put his hand up but quickly brought it down as another spider-man began asking away. Petey waited for the other to finish their chat before posing his question "I think I speak for a lot of us here when I ask, what is this earth's spiderman like as opposed to us?" He asked curiously.	Name - Peter "Petey" Parker Alias - The Steel Spider man or Steel Age - 19 Earth # - 01010011 Powers - Above average intelligence and good physical condition. Weaknesses - He is still just your everyday human on the inside. Personality - noble, wise-cracking, unconfident Appearance - BRIEF Bio - Peter was born and raised much like his 616 counterpart with his parents dropping him off with his aunt and uncle to then fall off the map and then supposedly die. The main differences between this Peter and the mainstream Peter was the field trip that changed the mainstream's life and got him his powers never happened to this one, it was closed due to an accident involving a worker and a radioactive spider. Sadly though many other events continued on such as Petey getting into wrestling and ending up getting his uncle shot. Peter began to channel his grief into his school work as he developed many different technologies that would make Tony Stark proud. As villains began to rise in full force Peter found that he now had a means of taking on these criminals with the various gadgets he had developed. At first Peter didn't have much of an idea of how to utilize his skills and gadgets but when a villain arose calling himself 'The Spiderman' arose he figured he would become the Ying to this Spider-man's Yang and decided to call himself 'The Steel Spider-man' or Steel as his full title was a bit of a mouthful. Petey began cleaning up his city using his spider themed apparel and gadgetry. Notes - Petey uses his mind more so than his brawn to beat his opponents in the form of his gadgets such as: -Spider-Legs: six long spider like appendages made from a space age alloy and can lift anywhere from 10 to 30 tons depending on how many arms are at work. They are mostly used for transportation but are able to be used for combat purposes. -M.A.C.S: Multi Alarm Cognitive System or M.A.C.S is a helmet that's connected to Petey's mind that warns him of incoming danger via what seems like a high pitched squeal and a reddening of his vision. -Swingers: two forearm gauntlets that are able to fire out lines of cable that are able to fasten themselves to almost any surface via ever so tiny barbs in the wire. Response to Spider Fist - Petey swung through the city with average nimbleness, he wasn't used to swinging yet as he usually used his Spider-Legs or normal legs to run around the city but he figured that swinging would be a lot faster. As he got to the climax of the swing he began hearing the voice of another asking for assistance. Peter almost plummeted to his doom but he was able to have his Spider-legs catch the wall and save him. As the mysterious Spider-Fist finished his speech Petey replied "Don't know why you'd ask me to help out, I'm not exactly a Bruce Lee when it comes to this stuff, but you can bet your buck I'm willing to help you out Mr," he finished staring with determination.
55,606	1,524	5	1,537	4,324	We do believe the reason Goblin King can't duplicate in his current form is due to the magical elements and nature of Thor's hammer. However, knocking out the original Norman doesn't take out the duplicates. That only worked on Multiple Man in that horrible X-Men cartoon that lasted one season... Aikman responded to the first Spiderman also called Neo. "That crappy show must've been popular around the multiverse, we had one as well on my Earth..." FF Spidey also commented. The same Spiderman then asked about more info about the different types of Goblins. "We've given you as much information as we have. Nobody other than the Spiderman of Earth 12814 knows exactly what we're up against..." Aikman added. "As far as a map of NYC, it's an alternate universe's NYC so it could always vary. Just look for the skyscraper labeled 'Oscorp'." FF Spidey continued to the next question about rescuing the Spiderman of this parallel world, "We're going to split the group into two teams. The first group will portal into the sewers to locate the Spiderman and intercept any Goblin sentries. Team two will cause a distraction topside though you will have to stay on your toes and lookout for the Goblin Brutes..." "Do NOT get put into a corner by multiple Brutes, they won't hold back and are responsible for the deaths of many of this Earth's heroes." Aaron Aikman continued right along. It was good that this group was asking questions. Neo nodded and then put his hand up again "I can sense aura's, perhaps it would be helpful to locate Spidey in the sewers and I should be able to sense any goblin sentries as well.." Another Spiderman with a tech'ed out suit asked about what the Spiderman of 12814 was like... "The Spiderman of Earth 12814 is another version of me..." began the FF Spidey, "Another Peter Parker who is an older member of the Avengers personally trained by his universe's Captain America. He's got at least an extra fifty to sixty pounds of muscle on him and would normally be the Captain's second in command... if not for the Avengers already being beaten by the Goblin King..." "He's barely managing to survive at this point. He's been fighting against the Goblins alone now for weeks on his world." Aiman then added. ~KL~	Name - Parker Peterson Alias - Spiderman, Tarantula Age - 22 Earth # - 1423 Powers - Spiderman standard, organic webbing, paralyzing bite, extra arms Weaknesses - standard human weaknesses, no spider sense Personality - stoic, misunderstood, fearless Appearance - BRIEF Bio - Sixteen year old Parker was bitten by a spider just outside of a gypsy fortune teller booth at Coney Island in NYC after the fortune teller said to him "great power and responsibility will find you..." Over the course of the next year Parker gained spider like abilities and eventually grew extra arms. With powers now mystic in nature, Parker would learn to 'absorb' his extra arms within him. The now seventeen year old Parker created the costume and alias of Tarantula after bringing the man to justice who was responsible for the murder of his Aunt May. Five years into his career he has seen quite a bit. As Tarantula, Parker became a member of his universe's Dr. Strange's more mystical team of Defenders along with Damon Hellstorm, Jack O' Lantern, Black Cat, and Ghost Rider. He's defeated such enemies as the King of the Symbiotes, the Green Goblins , and aided the Defenders in battles with Mephisto, Adam Warlock, and Blackheart. Notes - Organic webbing isn't as sticky as the 616 Spiderman's artificial webbing. He's still a pretty standard Spiderman just with a darker look and more mystical tone. Currently lives with his wheelchair bound Uncle Ben. Response to Spider Fist - Tarantula stood in awe of the oddly dressed Spider Fist. Parker had heard tales of other Spiders in the multiverse by Dr. Strange, but he never imagined one to be all Kung-Fu master Spiderman. The 'Fist took off his mask, revealing a familiar face in Danny Rand that resembled the Iron Fist on Tarantula's alternate Earth. "You can trust me." Spider Fist spoke out walking closer to the six armed spider man. "I'm not taking off my mask. How do you even know I'm not one of the badguys?" Tarantula asked in response. "The talisman brought me to you ... through the portal. Had you been an insane man bonded to a symbiote or an out of control genetic experiment it would have shown me someone else on the other side of the portal..." Spider Fist answered. "Sounds legit. Where are we off to first?" Parker asked. "Into the Negative Zone to regroup with others. At the Spiders' Web..." responded the kung-fu spider putting his mask back on before leaping into the portal with Tarantula. ~KL~
55,607	1,524	6	754	422	This whole meeting took on more of a freakish nature than the hazel-eyed Silk had anticipated. Spidermen (and well women) gathered and listened in respectful silence as the calm-toned FF spoke first about the removal of masks and then the impending danger. As reluctant to pull off her mask Silk felt in the beginning, she decided was it really worth causing a commotion over as all these spidermen/women were from different universes anyway and wouldn't really be able to out her secret identity anyway. Silk slowly removed her mask and smiled a half smirk as she too, moved towards the back. Staring down the spider-guy who had moved towards the rear before her, her resting bitch face could be enough to unnerve even the dalai lama. As more of the debriefing went on, Silk found herself yawning quite loudly when the spiderman next to her decided to ask more questions. Which meant drawn out talking. It was quite rude of her but that was her personality. After getting the basics, she was ready for the action already. The Thor goblin though, the idea of that seemed particularly grandeur and was an idea maybe she'd try to get one of these guys or someone back home to start thinking about. She imagined herself with the hammer -- goddess in her own right laying down the law and especially on the peter parker in her own realm. Idiot guy. She snapped out of it and tuned back in for something about captain america. Okay... "So then let's quit the idle chatter and let's go save him." She smirked again as her hair fell back in front of her face.	Name - Cynthia Tsukino Alias - Silk Age - 21 Earth # - 251 Powers - Spiderman standard with organic webbing Personality - Sly, Aggressive, Mysterious Appearance - Lookswise: Costume- BRIEF Bio - Cyn (pronounced Sin) was brought up in the slums after her parents relocated fromTrinidad to the Empire state. Her father was of japanese descent and her mother of African descent. Growing up very intelligent for her age, Cyn got to escape the less than adequate educational system right next to home and got to go to an upper private school that was a walk from where she lived, in Queens. Right after Peter Parker was bitten by the radioactive spider, the young lass, Cyn was bitten as well, however her powers didn't come into fruition until much later. She had one close friend she made around her neighborhood but he ended up dying when Cyn reached her junior year. It was then that she tapped into her powers and upon realizing her advantages, swore to take revenge. After she tracked down the gang members who she had suspected of killing her friend, she took up arms against them and would've killed them if it wasn't for Spiderman stopping her, barely. The two soon began a love-hate rivalry where Cyn had more of a ends-justify-the-means persona while peter parker did things vice versa. Off duty, Cyn is in school to become a chemist. Notes - Weaker in terms of strength, made up for in everything else Shooting a web to cover Electro's mouth after another failed attempt at city take over, Silk slinked off into the shadows while Spiderman yelled out "Hey!". Not in the mood for his meaningless argument as to why they shouldn't just kill Electro instead of waiting for him to break out of prison again, Silk webslinged her way to the top of a skyscraper and sighed. Another day of dealing with the same losers, saving the city yet nothing filling her void and in the long run nothing being solved for long. She wondered what Axl would have told her, if he could see her right now. The wind blew through her hair as a new voice carried through. She quickly turned and saw him and heard his plea for help. Odd looking guy and an even weirder way of speaking. A smile creeped upon her face. Just the type of thing that might help her find the thrill she was looking for. She licked her lips. "Sure. Just know I'll be doing things my way."
55,608	1,524	7	1,966	2,618	SPIDER - ROGUE Seeing how the conversation had become rather short and sweet, Spider-Rogue folded his arms and with a satisfied smile returned to his place. Now that the emotion had come to the forefront, it was near impossible to push it back. For the first time since being brought in by Spider-Fist, he felt a real urge for action. With a mindless nod, he agreed with the unknown, female voice behind him. "Yeah, let's go. He could be cornered right now. The quicker the better... I think," he tacked on at the end with a unsure smirk, worried about inexperience. The multi-verse was an astoundingly massive place, if all of them were brought in to fight this terror of Goblins, then it was probably best for him not to underestimate them. Even still, he worried for his life. Telling himself those things were pointless. He had a knack for putting himself in unnecessary danger. The only difference being, in his world he could afford to take the risks. In this one, it wasn't so much a choice and most likely fatal.	Name - Peter Murdock-Parker Often goes simply by Murdock Alias - The Spider Age - 26 Earth # - 1501 Powers - Standard Spider-Man powers Standard Daredevil powers Combined Spidey/Radar Sense Martial Arts Training Weaknesses - Standard Spider-Man weaknesses Standard Daredevil weaknesses Blind Can't webswing as well as other Spider-Men Personality Charming, Fearless, Morally Flexible Standard Spidey costume, but with black instead of blue, and the 'lenses' in the mask aren't actually lenses, just blacked out reflective pieces. He looks more like Matt Murdock than Peter Parker. Refer to Charlie Cox's Matt Murdock if you need a visual. Peter Murdock-Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider at age 16. He was at a public exhibition for 'safe' nuclear experiments when the spider, irradiated by accident during a demonstration, bit him on the back of the neck. He felt dizzy, and his vision blurred, before he passed out. He awoke in the hospital, only able to 'see' dancing colored blurs. He was blind. However, he started to notice that he had strange new abilities when he awoke. He was stronger and faster than before, able to cling to walls, and was able to sense oncoming danger. However, his senses (excluding sight, of course) were also unbelievably enhanced. He adjusted to this new life as anyone would, and was greatly supported by his uncle, Ben Parker. Peter's parents (who, when married, hyphenated their last names) died in an accident when he was very young, and was taken in by Ben and May Parker, Peter's matrilinial uncle and aunt. May developed cancer not long after, and died, leaving Ben to take care of Peter by himself. Unknown to Ben, Peter's new therapist, Mr. Stick (as he called himself), had been teaching Peter a kind of martial arts as a way of release. The whole spider fiasco turned Peter away from a career in science, and he decided instead to pursue law in college. Meanwhile, Ben's boxing career had started winding down. He was getting older, and wouldn't be able to sustain it for much longer. A rather shady opportunity came to him one day, a large sum of money in exchange for throwing a match. He reluctantly accepted. When the time came, however, he did just the opposite; he won the match in record time. Battlin' Ben Parker finally had the glory he'd been waiting for his entire career. It was short-lived. He found hitmen waiting for him in his home, and was murdered. Peter had just gotten his graduate's degree at the time, and had been accepted into law school. The loss was devastating. He realized that he'd been given incredible powers, and never used them to anyone's benefit other than his own. Could he have saved Ben? Probably not, since he wouldn't have been there. He realized, though, that he could have helped many more people, and thus made it his responsibility to do so. Since then, he's taken up defending New York full-time. By day, as Peter Murdock, Attorney at Law, and by night as The Spider. Notes - - He may not be quite as smart science-wise as other Spider-Man, but he graduated law school. He recently opened up his own practice with a friend. - To shed some light on 'Morally-flexible," it simply means he's willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. The ends justify the means. Response to Spider Fist - "Well... If you really need me, I'm up to it. Let's go." He started walking away, when Spider-Fist grabbed his shoulder. "Other way, friend." "... Oh."
55,609	1,524	8	1,270	2,337	Three heartbeats. Ba-bump. I tune my own out. Ba-bump. Two heartbeats. Ba-bump. I've memorized one already- it's Spider-Fist's. Ba-bump. One other person in the room. Ba-bump. It's beating faster than a normal heart. Ba-bump. I hear Spider-Fist walk away, and suddenly we're alone. Me and the other one, presumably another version of me. Or is it another version of 'Spider-Man?' I'll save the philosophical questions for later. I can sense the extra mass around their torso. Extra arms. More arms to pump blood to. Faster heart. Makes sense. I simply nod to them, and almost as a response, the mass is gone and the heartbeat slows. Their arms are gone. Soon, Spider-Fist returns with more Spider-Men, one by one, until there are seven others, plus Spider-Fist. "Hmmph, I could have more arms but there's no more room on my rib cage..." The voice came from Tarantula, the one who was already here when I arrived. It was under his breath, probably inaudible to everyone else in the room, but I heard it clearly. I now know his name, shape, heartbeat, smell, and voice... Another voice speaks up. "Now that I have you all gathered here, if everyone would remove your masks... I know there may be some hesitation in some of you but trust me when I say that you are among friends here." Spider-Fist. I hear the faint swishing of the other Spider-Men removing their masks. Hesitating, I'm last to remove my own. I figure at least one of them is staring at me, but it doesn't bother me. The exercise was probably supposed to build some trust between the group immediately, but it does nothing for me. Oh well. I run a hand through my hair, setting it back down after removing my mask stood it up. It felt funny that way. Spider-Fist starts dispensing information on the enemy before he's interrupted by two more Spider-Men. Before they finish their speech, I have a good grasp on their identities, (except their names, having not introduced themselves) as well as everyone else's in the room. The other "me's" start asking questions, one called Neo requesting more information on the goblins and commenting under his breath that he hasn't actually faced one before. A rookie? Spider-Fist must have a good reason to call somebody with no experience in. A Spider-Woman, Silk, calls the ones asking questions out on their time-wasting. Thank God. Spider-Rogue agrees with her, as do I. We need to move soon. Finally, I speak up. "So what are we waiting for? Let's go."	Name -Peter Parker "Parker-san" to keep apart from the others. Alias -Spider-man "Spider-clan" to keep apart from the others Age - 22 Earth # - 2301 Powers - Comparable to those of 616 except for the fact that his organic webbing, He harvests his webbing and applies a compound to keep the webbing last 60 hours instead of 60 minutes. he keeps these on various ninja tools whenever needed. He combines his ninja techniques with his powers for devastating effects such as a 2-ton nerve jab. Weaknesses - As a ninja, he should have spent a number of years developing a resistance to poisons and the like. But for some reason, he is highly susceptible to venom. Personality - More disciplined than most, he takes his with and humor in taunts and 'counting coups' to drive his enemies to flaw. Appearance - {filler till I make a better one} BRIEF Bio - In the Mangaverse Peter Parker is the last member of the Spider Clan of ninjas and has been taught martial arts by his sensei, Uncle Ben. After Ben's murder by Venom, an underling of the Kingpin, Peter starts to train in secret so he will be strong enough to exact his revenge. In this version of Spider-Man, Aunt May is Peter's mother's sister instead of Uncle Ben being his father's brother. This symbiote does not become Venom and has mystical origins and connections to an 'evil' clan of Ninja who are affiliated with Spiders, apparently a counterpart to Spider-Man's own ninja clan. Norman Osborn, better known as the Green Goblin, has a minor appearance in the series. Notes - One of "spider-clan's" favored weapons is his meteor hammer/rope dart, using the ability to cling to surfaces to provide impossible fulcrum positions while whipping up tremendous force of a 100 lbs weight spun around with 20 ton strength for 2,000 ton impact, or 2 Kilotons. Response to Spider Fist - He panted softly as he looked the other over, they had been sparing for a few minutes now and the differences were noticeable but nothing like the similarities. They fought with different styles, but both fought with different standards of honor... even ninja standards. "Alright, you are 'a' me. With superheroes and stuff around, this isn't a stretch. and if another of 'our' homes are in trouble, then its up to us to keep our 'families' safe... Let me get my gear."
55,610	1,524	9	686	2,548	Neo nodded, the man was right. Though at first he figured he wont have to be in contact these people for long which allowed him to get out of his shell initially, it seemed they may have to fight for a long while so for the next he pulled on his mask as he felt better when no one knew who he was under it. "He's right, besides it helps deciding who should go on what mission, though I do think those that wish to just fight should go above ground and those that are more stealthy or less experienced should go on the rescue mission so we have two ways of going at this, anyway, Allow me to start this" he ignored the annoyed aura's from some impatient individuals of there were any. "these will all be based on organic powers and not techno added as technology tends to have its own weaknesses such as a battery, so yeah explain those when your up" he added. "Web shooting, Wall climbing, enhanced strength, speed, agility, Spider sense, slight enhanced healing, more durable body, While not a power Ill list it as well, Physic's nerd" Between each power he gave a chance for everyone to put their hands up, he did so himself when he had the power, then he waited till it was clear everyone had seen it before he continued. "Good, I am Neo-Spiderman, call me Neo seeing were allies, I dont know about enhanced durability and hope never to learn this, I am more oriented on speed and agility then strength, I dont have the enhanced healing but I do have a rapid clotting of wounds, even if my aorta is cut so I never bleed out, I can extend my nails into an ivory like substance claw, they can break, I am not a physics geek but I do have an small insight into making tech like spider tracers and a radio flare to alert cops where I have some dealers or robbers hanging, My main difference is likely instead of spider sense I have Aura sense, its an ability to let me sense others their aura, or live energy, I can pick up various stuff like Killing intent, annoyed people" he looked straight to those fitting that one "Emotions, if someone is lying and other stuff, it allows me to know when someone is going to attack me and the general body part used and of course just where people are, allowing me to move unnoticed from area to area, which makes me think I am fitted for the rescue mission, able to sense the Spidy when he gets in my range, a single aura which is likely scared or has an other emotion that fits should be easy to pick up in the sewers, plus I can sense when the Goblin scouts are coming" With that Neo stepped down, he was finished.	Name - Patrick Campwood Alias - Spiderman-Neo or Neo-Spiderman (also called Neo by friends and allies (like how Spiderman is often called Spidy)) Earth # - 000-X Powers - -all basic spiderman powers though he is more oriented on speed and agility instead of strength -Organic web shooters from his wrists -instead of a spider-sense that feels danger he can feel aura's, using this he is able to feel those in his area and even tell if they are lying or scared and such, this gives a spider-sense when the enemy is attacking physically (trough he cant really feel the exact movements unless its a big body part like a huge tail of the lizard that is attacking him) but as bullets and such do not possess this live energy, he cant feel these coming at all, also if he is familiar with a specific aura from being around them for a long period of time, then he can feel them from much further, trough he can only sense a general direction and only strong emotions (such as fear) -increase in intelligence but mostly to a degree where he can make things like spider tracers and a kind if distress call on cop's radio frequencies to alert cops where he has trapped crooks -retractable claws on the fingernails, where they look normally but can grow into sharp points with a density similar to ivory. Weaknesses - -While his Aura sense is formible with finding and knowing more about the incoming danger, it cant pick up anything that is not alive, making him weak to bullets, missiles, swords and so on -his claws are strong and dangerous but they are not unbreakable and will hurt -the real spidy had an enhanced healing but at best Neo has the advantage where heavy wounds and only heavy wounds (meaning small minor stuff will not be effected) stop bleeding real fast -due to past experiences before all this crazyness started he has some social fears, he can escape all that when wearing the masks, but if he has to live without the mask and feels that he will spend a lot of time with a group of people he can close himself off to them fearing the pasts events happening again Personality - most will come during the rp, however he will try to make spiderman type of jokes, the social fear issue is due to the following: getting hated and targeted for no clear reason aside being different due to having experienced slight brain damage at a very young age, nothing that effects his abilities or daily live but he has developed mentually at a different rate then normal (though at his current age this is not that noticeble anymore) and may have some other ways of viewing things or doing things, being different compared to "normal"people) Age: 26 Appearance - BRIEF Bio - A few months ago his entire live was suddenly turned upside down. At first the entire world was like the real world, no people with powers existed outside tv shows and comic books, even spiderman himself has never been more then the comics we all have read, the tv cartoons we all have watched and the real action movies we all know, it was a normal real world live. Yet one day Patrick woke up with knowledge that made no sense, he knew he had these powers, he knew he had hidden a costume as well, the original outfit. He had no idea what has happened so he did the next best thing, go out as he knew he could do now and try to figure out what has happened, why his own reality has changed the way it did. During this time things escalated, at the start all he had to worry about was simple drug dealers and armed robers, but one day a large humanoid snake appeared who seemed to have been hit by the same issue, changed by what ever happened but sadly for this one, he lost his memories and acted on instinct, wanting to go home, this never changed for the man... and so stuff kept happening, things straight from the spiderman world such as not one but 2 doc ock's showed up (one with the stolen prototype of the arms and one that wanted the prototype back), venom and carnage but also enemies unique to his reality showed up off course... During these events the original suite was broken beyond repair and so he made his own unique outfit you can see above while things got worse they also got better and then comes the time of this rp Notes - he has some spider trackers and cop warning systems with him at all time Skills: due to his powers he has an increased intelligence on a more mechanical level, trough without any studys in the subject he can only make small simple things, He has made his personal martial arts, he knows some Japanse himself Response to Spider Fist - While it was surprising to hear all this from a guy standing in some kind of portal or hole between realms as Patrick guessed what it really was, he believed the man, for 2 things. one he was clearly a mix between spiderman and the iron fists, two marvel characters that have always been hero's with nothing more then the right intentions, if you mixed the great responcibility and the peacefull and justice loving nature of Iron fist, then the man cant be bad second he had seen a lot of weird stuff up till now so this was to be expected eventually. "Guess this could be my best bet on finding what the hell happened to my reality as well, not that I am complaining but I still want to know what changed it all, so yeah count me in, sounds like fun anyway as well, seeing all the real spidy's from different realms" Neo stood up but stopped suddenly "wait when we return time will continue from this point on right, not that I just go missing here, got a wife and child that need me in that case" Spider Fist nodded to Neo's question "yes time shall continue from this point on when you return, nothing will change outside your experiences and knowledge" "thank god, yeah count me in then, something in the multiverse mixed this world with what was seen as a comic book so time to go to the source" With that Neo stepped though the portal as it closed behind him, freezing the time of his world untill his return from his point of view
55,611	1,524	10	1,537	4,324	I'm sorry gentlemen but we don't have time for proper introductions. You were scanned the moment you portaled into the building using the most advanced modern tech available thanks to my FF teammate Reed Richards. The Council knows what you are capable of and can send you forward strategically... the white clad FF Spiderman commented, "Every minute we waste those Goblins are getting closer to that world's Spiderman, and he's already injured and on the defensive...." "If anyone needs them, if your web shooters were damaged before portaling to this HQ, we have several made for just this instance..." Aikman began saying before Tarantula stopped paying attention to the front and locked eyes on the other black costumed Spider-person... Silk. He began stepping back to the back of the room, where the girl was located near a water fountain. That was his in, though Parker was never too great at talking to girls. That's when he tripped over his own foot and fell into the fountain interrupting whatever it was the Council was talking about at that point. Picking himself up, he spoke in a somewhat embarrassed monotone voice and tried making the best out of a bad scene. "I'm sorry, I just really needed a drink..." Parker Peterson responded with all eyes on him only for a few seconds. "Neo, Spider Fist will port you, Murdock, Silk, and the ninja Spiderman into the sewers to locate and rescue Earth 12814's Spiderman. Our primary goal is saving him and learning everything else we can about the situation. Everyone else will be top side making a distraction and taking down as many brutes and sentries as you can. Hopefully the Goblin King doesn't make an appearance. Most of the citizens in this New York have already been evacuated but there may be some remaining civilians..." Aikman continued on. "Let's go save the multiverse..." Parker thought putting on his Tarantula mask and jumping into the portal with the other Spidermen. Earth 12814, New York City It looked like a war zone. Damaged buildings, debris everywhere, flipped cars, and the stench of dead bodies plagued the once spectacular American city. There were plenty of Goblin sentries flying around, however Tarantula was always told to take down the biggest threats first and leaped down towards a surprised goblin brute. "You look shocked to see another Spiderman.." Tarantula taunted in his eerie monotone like voice flipping over the behemoth striking him a few times and webbing one arm to the top of the building they were fighting on, "..I got something for ya!" he continued pummeling the brute extending his extra arms and delivering a flurry of punches, flip kicks, etc. When the first brute was taken down Tarantula flipped into the air and made several web lines with his added arms and created a net that ensnared a couple unsuspecting sentries riding goblin gliders. ~KL~	Name - Parker Peterson Alias - Spiderman, Tarantula Age - 22 Earth # - 1423 Powers - Spiderman standard, organic webbing, paralyzing bite, extra arms Weaknesses - standard human weaknesses, no spider sense Personality - stoic, misunderstood, fearless Appearance - BRIEF Bio - Sixteen year old Parker was bitten by a spider just outside of a gypsy fortune teller booth at Coney Island in NYC after the fortune teller said to him "great power and responsibility will find you..." Over the course of the next year Parker gained spider like abilities and eventually grew extra arms. With powers now mystic in nature, Parker would learn to 'absorb' his extra arms within him. The now seventeen year old Parker created the costume and alias of Tarantula after bringing the man to justice who was responsible for the murder of his Aunt May. Five years into his career he has seen quite a bit. As Tarantula, Parker became a member of his universe's Dr. Strange's more mystical team of Defenders along with Damon Hellstorm, Jack O' Lantern, Black Cat, and Ghost Rider. He's defeated such enemies as the King of the Symbiotes, the Green Goblins , and aided the Defenders in battles with Mephisto, Adam Warlock, and Blackheart. Notes - Organic webbing isn't as sticky as the 616 Spiderman's artificial webbing. He's still a pretty standard Spiderman just with a darker look and more mystical tone. Currently lives with his wheelchair bound Uncle Ben. Response to Spider Fist - Tarantula stood in awe of the oddly dressed Spider Fist. Parker had heard tales of other Spiders in the multiverse by Dr. Strange, but he never imagined one to be all Kung-Fu master Spiderman. The 'Fist took off his mask, revealing a familiar face in Danny Rand that resembled the Iron Fist on Tarantula's alternate Earth. "You can trust me." Spider Fist spoke out walking closer to the six armed spider man. "I'm not taking off my mask. How do you even know I'm not one of the badguys?" Tarantula asked in response. "The talisman brought me to you ... through the portal. Had you been an insane man bonded to a symbiote or an out of control genetic experiment it would have shown me someone else on the other side of the portal..." Spider Fist answered. "Sounds legit. Where are we off to first?" Parker asked. "Into the Negative Zone to regroup with others. At the Spiders' Web..." responded the kung-fu spider putting his mask back on before leaping into the portal with Tarantula. ~KL~
55,612	1,524	11	686	2,548	Neo was one of the first to step out of the portal. He looked at the area, underground a small walkway and off course dirty greenish(?) water. The smell was the worst of it, but it was surprisingly intact at first sight, seemed like all the fights took place above the ground and the sewers was spared of it mostly, at least in this area.... At the current moment there were no aura's to be felt in his range, which was both lucky as bad, lucky as in, no goblins, bad as in no spidy either... He looked at the others "So, what you guys say, divide and conquer, clear more ground to find our comrade faster, though we kinda have to deal with goblins single handed as well"	Name - Patrick Campwood Alias - Spiderman-Neo or Neo-Spiderman (also called Neo by friends and allies (like how Spiderman is often called Spidy)) Earth # - 000-X Powers - -all basic spiderman powers though he is more oriented on speed and agility instead of strength -Organic web shooters from his wrists -instead of a spider-sense that feels danger he can feel aura's, using this he is able to feel those in his area and even tell if they are lying or scared and such, this gives a spider-sense when the enemy is attacking physically (trough he cant really feel the exact movements unless its a big body part like a huge tail of the lizard that is attacking him) but as bullets and such do not possess this live energy, he cant feel these coming at all, also if he is familiar with a specific aura from being around them for a long period of time, then he can feel them from much further, trough he can only sense a general direction and only strong emotions (such as fear) -increase in intelligence but mostly to a degree where he can make things like spider tracers and a kind if distress call on cop's radio frequencies to alert cops where he has trapped crooks -retractable claws on the fingernails, where they look normally but can grow into sharp points with a density similar to ivory. Weaknesses - -While his Aura sense is formible with finding and knowing more about the incoming danger, it cant pick up anything that is not alive, making him weak to bullets, missiles, swords and so on -his claws are strong and dangerous but they are not unbreakable and will hurt -the real spidy had an enhanced healing but at best Neo has the advantage where heavy wounds and only heavy wounds (meaning small minor stuff will not be effected) stop bleeding real fast -due to past experiences before all this crazyness started he has some social fears, he can escape all that when wearing the masks, but if he has to live without the mask and feels that he will spend a lot of time with a group of people he can close himself off to them fearing the pasts events happening again Personality - most will come during the rp, however he will try to make spiderman type of jokes, the social fear issue is due to the following: getting hated and targeted for no clear reason aside being different due to having experienced slight brain damage at a very young age, nothing that effects his abilities or daily live but he has developed mentually at a different rate then normal (though at his current age this is not that noticeble anymore) and may have some other ways of viewing things or doing things, being different compared to "normal"people) Age: 26 Appearance - BRIEF Bio - A few months ago his entire live was suddenly turned upside down. At first the entire world was like the real world, no people with powers existed outside tv shows and comic books, even spiderman himself has never been more then the comics we all have read, the tv cartoons we all have watched and the real action movies we all know, it was a normal real world live. Yet one day Patrick woke up with knowledge that made no sense, he knew he had these powers, he knew he had hidden a costume as well, the original outfit. He had no idea what has happened so he did the next best thing, go out as he knew he could do now and try to figure out what has happened, why his own reality has changed the way it did. During this time things escalated, at the start all he had to worry about was simple drug dealers and armed robers, but one day a large humanoid snake appeared who seemed to have been hit by the same issue, changed by what ever happened but sadly for this one, he lost his memories and acted on instinct, wanting to go home, this never changed for the man... and so stuff kept happening, things straight from the spiderman world such as not one but 2 doc ock's showed up (one with the stolen prototype of the arms and one that wanted the prototype back), venom and carnage but also enemies unique to his reality showed up off course... During these events the original suite was broken beyond repair and so he made his own unique outfit you can see above while things got worse they also got better and then comes the time of this rp Notes - he has some spider trackers and cop warning systems with him at all time Skills: due to his powers he has an increased intelligence on a more mechanical level, trough without any studys in the subject he can only make small simple things, He has made his personal martial arts, he knows some Japanse himself Response to Spider Fist - While it was surprising to hear all this from a guy standing in some kind of portal or hole between realms as Patrick guessed what it really was, he believed the man, for 2 things. one he was clearly a mix between spiderman and the iron fists, two marvel characters that have always been hero's with nothing more then the right intentions, if you mixed the great responcibility and the peacefull and justice loving nature of Iron fist, then the man cant be bad second he had seen a lot of weird stuff up till now so this was to be expected eventually. "Guess this could be my best bet on finding what the hell happened to my reality as well, not that I am complaining but I still want to know what changed it all, so yeah count me in, sounds like fun anyway as well, seeing all the real spidy's from different realms" Neo stood up but stopped suddenly "wait when we return time will continue from this point on right, not that I just go missing here, got a wife and child that need me in that case" Spider Fist nodded to Neo's question "yes time shall continue from this point on when you return, nothing will change outside your experiences and knowledge" "thank god, yeah count me in then, something in the multiverse mixed this world with what was seen as a comic book so time to go to the source" With that Neo stepped though the portal as it closed behind him, freezing the time of his world untill his return from his point of view
55,613	1,524	12	2,002	2,695	Petey was one of the last Spider-men to get topside as he had to put his suit back on with quite a bit of difficulty. Once the Spider-man was suited up he quickly headed for the portal with a fury in his heart and the capabilities to exact his fury upon the goblins at large. Steel began banging his mechanical legs together making a loud clanging sound which attracted the attention of a few sentries who came barreling at him. He didn't like his odds against a brute but his extra arms would definaty come I'm handy when fighting the multiple weaker goblins. As the sentries came close they began tossing pumpkin bombs his way to which he responded with the smacking of his mechanical legs. He used the legs to deflect a brunt of the explosives and used his normal legs to run from the others but once they had gone off Steel used his spider legs to catapult himself at the sentries who we're headed in his direction. In a flurry of spider leg swipes the sentries were sent flying from their crafts and as some tried to escape, Petey used his web shooters to yank them back in his direction in order to release his carnage upon them.	Name - Peter "Petey" Parker Alias - The Steel Spider man or Steel Age - 19 Earth # - 01010011 Powers - Above average intelligence and good physical condition. Weaknesses - He is still just your everyday human on the inside. Personality - noble, wise-cracking, unconfident Appearance - BRIEF Bio - Peter was born and raised much like his 616 counterpart with his parents dropping him off with his aunt and uncle to then fall off the map and then supposedly die. The main differences between this Peter and the mainstream Peter was the field trip that changed the mainstream's life and got him his powers never happened to this one, it was closed due to an accident involving a worker and a radioactive spider. Sadly though many other events continued on such as Petey getting into wrestling and ending up getting his uncle shot. Peter began to channel his grief into his school work as he developed many different technologies that would make Tony Stark proud. As villains began to rise in full force Peter found that he now had a means of taking on these criminals with the various gadgets he had developed. At first Peter didn't have much of an idea of how to utilize his skills and gadgets but when a villain arose calling himself 'The Spiderman' arose he figured he would become the Ying to this Spider-man's Yang and decided to call himself 'The Steel Spider-man' or Steel as his full title was a bit of a mouthful. Petey began cleaning up his city using his spider themed apparel and gadgetry. Notes - Petey uses his mind more so than his brawn to beat his opponents in the form of his gadgets such as: -Spider-Legs: six long spider like appendages made from a space age alloy and can lift anywhere from 10 to 30 tons depending on how many arms are at work. They are mostly used for transportation but are able to be used for combat purposes. -M.A.C.S: Multi Alarm Cognitive System or M.A.C.S is a helmet that's connected to Petey's mind that warns him of incoming danger via what seems like a high pitched squeal and a reddening of his vision. -Swingers: two forearm gauntlets that are able to fire out lines of cable that are able to fasten themselves to almost any surface via ever so tiny barbs in the wire. Response to Spider Fist - Petey swung through the city with average nimbleness, he wasn't used to swinging yet as he usually used his Spider-Legs or normal legs to run around the city but he figured that swinging would be a lot faster. As he got to the climax of the swing he began hearing the voice of another asking for assistance. Peter almost plummeted to his doom but he was able to have his Spider-legs catch the wall and save him. As the mysterious Spider-Fist finished his speech Petey replied "Don't know why you'd ask me to help out, I'm not exactly a Bruce Lee when it comes to this stuff, but you can bet your buck I'm willing to help you out Mr," he finished staring with determination.
55,614	1,524	13	1,966	2,618	Spider-Rogue "We don't have time fo-" Spider-Rogue shouted but was interrupted by a white clad Spiderman. It was a good thing too, he honestly felt a argument would have sparked from his disagreement. While the other Spidermen spoke, he fell into the drone-like state of half-listening and half bracing himself for the battle. He could feel his hands tightening, clenching onto his skin as his heart thundered forth. This is it. No mistakes and no clanking up. All I have to do is take down as many of the enemy as I can. And perhaps save a couple people in the process. I was chosen for a reason, I'm sure someone out there must believe in me. Spider-Rogue smirked before pulling his mask over his face, the usual temper and sarcasm falling on his face as he ran and leaped into the portal. * * * A sweltering heat passed his face on the other side. He looked on with horror at large and dark columns of smoke. The screams of citizens, the buzz of Goblin Gliders, and shaking of the mess going on below all became a despairing soundtrack to him. His spider-sense guided his hands as he flung a string of web and himself onto the wrecked surface of a skyscraper. He instinctively avoided the broken window pane and held tight to the surface a cracked on. "I know they said the party had started without us but..." He gazed down on a oblivious Brute below as it flipped a car over and stomped down the single street. Enraged a bit, he prepared to attack but his spider-sense ticked him off to an assault from above. Just before the knife hit him, he flipped over to the next pane and shot a string at the Goblin Glider above. Using it as a anchor, he swung around the building and up onto its roof. Then with a yank, he sent the Goblin down towards the brute. The explosion rocked the building and sent another, dark, column of smoke into the air. Spider-Rogue walked to the edge of the building and crouched down onto it, leaning over the ledge. "No more Mr. Bad Goblins. Its time to put the kiddies to bed," he barked before swinging off towards his next target.	Name - Peter Murdock-Parker Often goes simply by Murdock Alias - The Spider Age - 26 Earth # - 1501 Powers - Standard Spider-Man powers Standard Daredevil powers Combined Spidey/Radar Sense Martial Arts Training Weaknesses - Standard Spider-Man weaknesses Standard Daredevil weaknesses Blind Can't webswing as well as other Spider-Men Personality Charming, Fearless, Morally Flexible Standard Spidey costume, but with black instead of blue, and the 'lenses' in the mask aren't actually lenses, just blacked out reflective pieces. He looks more like Matt Murdock than Peter Parker. Refer to Charlie Cox's Matt Murdock if you need a visual. Peter Murdock-Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider at age 16. He was at a public exhibition for 'safe' nuclear experiments when the spider, irradiated by accident during a demonstration, bit him on the back of the neck. He felt dizzy, and his vision blurred, before he passed out. He awoke in the hospital, only able to 'see' dancing colored blurs. He was blind. However, he started to notice that he had strange new abilities when he awoke. He was stronger and faster than before, able to cling to walls, and was able to sense oncoming danger. However, his senses (excluding sight, of course) were also unbelievably enhanced. He adjusted to this new life as anyone would, and was greatly supported by his uncle, Ben Parker. Peter's parents (who, when married, hyphenated their last names) died in an accident when he was very young, and was taken in by Ben and May Parker, Peter's matrilinial uncle and aunt. May developed cancer not long after, and died, leaving Ben to take care of Peter by himself. Unknown to Ben, Peter's new therapist, Mr. Stick (as he called himself), had been teaching Peter a kind of martial arts as a way of release. The whole spider fiasco turned Peter away from a career in science, and he decided instead to pursue law in college. Meanwhile, Ben's boxing career had started winding down. He was getting older, and wouldn't be able to sustain it for much longer. A rather shady opportunity came to him one day, a large sum of money in exchange for throwing a match. He reluctantly accepted. When the time came, however, he did just the opposite; he won the match in record time. Battlin' Ben Parker finally had the glory he'd been waiting for his entire career. It was short-lived. He found hitmen waiting for him in his home, and was murdered. Peter had just gotten his graduate's degree at the time, and had been accepted into law school. The loss was devastating. He realized that he'd been given incredible powers, and never used them to anyone's benefit other than his own. Could he have saved Ben? Probably not, since he wouldn't have been there. He realized, though, that he could have helped many more people, and thus made it his responsibility to do so. Since then, he's taken up defending New York full-time. By day, as Peter Murdock, Attorney at Law, and by night as The Spider. Notes - - He may not be quite as smart science-wise as other Spider-Man, but he graduated law school. He recently opened up his own practice with a friend. - To shed some light on 'Morally-flexible," it simply means he's willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. The ends justify the means. Response to Spider Fist - "Well... If you really need me, I'm up to it. Let's go." He started walking away, when Spider-Fist grabbed his shoulder. "Other way, friend." "... Oh."
55,615	1,524	14	1,270	2,337	Please, 'clan' is better than 'ninja', 'spider-clan' if we have to be specific. On came the mask and he fell into his training, taking the extra web shooters just in case he entered the portal to the sewers. Dropping into the muck, he started to smear some slime onto his backpack to start hiding his scent as he took out his ninja tools for combat. "So, what you guys say, divide and conquer, clear more ground to find our comrade faster, though we kinda have to deal with goblins single handed as well." "Two by two, Neo and Silk, Murdock and me. We keep teams and double ground coverage. I assume for scanner purposes, we were not given radios to communicate with." This suggestion should be met with less opposition as he was not placing himself with the only woman, it should assuage any testosterone or territorial claims.	Name -Peter Parker "Parker-san" to keep apart from the others. Alias -Spider-man "Spider-clan" to keep apart from the others Age - 22 Earth # - 2301 Powers - Comparable to those of 616 except for the fact that his organic webbing, He harvests his webbing and applies a compound to keep the webbing last 60 hours instead of 60 minutes. he keeps these on various ninja tools whenever needed. He combines his ninja techniques with his powers for devastating effects such as a 2-ton nerve jab. Weaknesses - As a ninja, he should have spent a number of years developing a resistance to poisons and the like. But for some reason, he is highly susceptible to venom. Personality - More disciplined than most, he takes his with and humor in taunts and 'counting coups' to drive his enemies to flaw. Appearance - {filler till I make a better one} BRIEF Bio - In the Mangaverse Peter Parker is the last member of the Spider Clan of ninjas and has been taught martial arts by his sensei, Uncle Ben. After Ben's murder by Venom, an underling of the Kingpin, Peter starts to train in secret so he will be strong enough to exact his revenge. In this version of Spider-Man, Aunt May is Peter's mother's sister instead of Uncle Ben being his father's brother. This symbiote does not become Venom and has mystical origins and connections to an 'evil' clan of Ninja who are affiliated with Spiders, apparently a counterpart to Spider-Man's own ninja clan. Norman Osborn, better known as the Green Goblin, has a minor appearance in the series. Notes - One of "spider-clan's" favored weapons is his meteor hammer/rope dart, using the ability to cling to surfaces to provide impossible fulcrum positions while whipping up tremendous force of a 100 lbs weight spun around with 20 ton strength for 2,000 ton impact, or 2 Kilotons. Response to Spider Fist - He panted softly as he looked the other over, they had been sparing for a few minutes now and the differences were noticeable but nothing like the similarities. They fought with different styles, but both fought with different standards of honor... even ninja standards. "Alright, you are 'a' me. With superheroes and stuff around, this isn't a stretch. and if another of 'our' homes are in trouble, then its up to us to keep our 'families' safe... Let me get my gear."
55,616	1,524	15	1,966	2,618	I replace my mask before I enter the portal. I drop in, onto the concrete sidewalk next to the sludge. The sewers smell disgusting. Not that I expected anything different from a sewer. After a minute or two, while we're still milling around the portal, I'm able to block it out mentally. I'm left with the scents of my allies, though Clan is trying to cover his up with the muck. It would be enough to fool a dog, but I'm unsure of the tracking capabilities of these goblins. I decide to say nothing. "So what do you guys say? Divide and conquer, clear more ground to find our comrade faster? Though, we kind of have to deal with the goblins single-handed as well." Neo suggests on how to proceed, followed by Clan's idea. "Two by two, Neo and Silk, Murdock and me. We keep teams and double ground coverage. I assume for scanner purposes, we were not given radios to communicate with." "Wait." I say, and then I start to listen, and focus on what I hear. The sludge is shifting back and forth. A bug is scrabbling up the wall behind me. Six legs. No Spider-Man or Goblin within a few blocks. Anyone could have figured at least that, these sewers echo well. A blessing and a curse. I wouldn't be able to hear from this far away if they didn't, but the Goblins will be able to hear us as we approach. I focus further. I hear the engine and jets from a glider, and cackling voices. "The itsy-bitsy spiIiIIder..." "Come out and plaaAaaAYYyy..." "HAhahaHAHAHahAHaHaH!" Their echoed taunts are nothing if not unnerving. I feel safer knowing that the Goblin of my world is no threat, having been dead now for about a year. He was too dangerous for me to allow otherwise. From the same direction I can faintly make out footsteps and the triggering of a web shooter. He's on the edge of my range, I'll lose him soon. If we go now, we can probably catch our target before we run into any Goblins, though they'll hear us coming and will find us shortly after. If we waste any more time, I'll lose him and have no more of a clue than any of the others. "No need to split up," I say. A response to the previous idea, only a minute or so passed while I listened. "He's that way." I point. "We can catch him first if we hurry." With a little more urgency, I add, "Now!"	Name - Peter Murdock-Parker Often goes simply by Murdock Alias - The Spider Age - 26 Earth # - 1501 Powers - Standard Spider-Man powers Standard Daredevil powers Combined Spidey/Radar Sense Martial Arts Training Weaknesses - Standard Spider-Man weaknesses Standard Daredevil weaknesses Blind Can't webswing as well as other Spider-Men Personality Charming, Fearless, Morally Flexible Standard Spidey costume, but with black instead of blue, and the 'lenses' in the mask aren't actually lenses, just blacked out reflective pieces. He looks more like Matt Murdock than Peter Parker. Refer to Charlie Cox's Matt Murdock if you need a visual. Peter Murdock-Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider at age 16. He was at a public exhibition for 'safe' nuclear experiments when the spider, irradiated by accident during a demonstration, bit him on the back of the neck. He felt dizzy, and his vision blurred, before he passed out. He awoke in the hospital, only able to 'see' dancing colored blurs. He was blind. However, he started to notice that he had strange new abilities when he awoke. He was stronger and faster than before, able to cling to walls, and was able to sense oncoming danger. However, his senses (excluding sight, of course) were also unbelievably enhanced. He adjusted to this new life as anyone would, and was greatly supported by his uncle, Ben Parker. Peter's parents (who, when married, hyphenated their last names) died in an accident when he was very young, and was taken in by Ben and May Parker, Peter's matrilinial uncle and aunt. May developed cancer not long after, and died, leaving Ben to take care of Peter by himself. Unknown to Ben, Peter's new therapist, Mr. Stick (as he called himself), had been teaching Peter a kind of martial arts as a way of release. The whole spider fiasco turned Peter away from a career in science, and he decided instead to pursue law in college. Meanwhile, Ben's boxing career had started winding down. He was getting older, and wouldn't be able to sustain it for much longer. A rather shady opportunity came to him one day, a large sum of money in exchange for throwing a match. He reluctantly accepted. When the time came, however, he did just the opposite; he won the match in record time. Battlin' Ben Parker finally had the glory he'd been waiting for his entire career. It was short-lived. He found hitmen waiting for him in his home, and was murdered. Peter had just gotten his graduate's degree at the time, and had been accepted into law school. The loss was devastating. He realized that he'd been given incredible powers, and never used them to anyone's benefit other than his own. Could he have saved Ben? Probably not, since he wouldn't have been there. He realized, though, that he could have helped many more people, and thus made it his responsibility to do so. Since then, he's taken up defending New York full-time. By day, as Peter Murdock, Attorney at Law, and by night as The Spider. Notes - - He may not be quite as smart science-wise as other Spider-Man, but he graduated law school. He recently opened up his own practice with a friend. - To shed some light on 'Morally-flexible," it simply means he's willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. The ends justify the means. Response to Spider Fist - "Well... If you really need me, I'm up to it. Let's go." He started walking away, when Spider-Fist grabbed his shoulder. "Other way, friend." "... Oh."
55,617	1,524	16	754	422	Silk did take a silently sweet delight in other spider-men agreeing with her deciding to be hasty. However, when Neo and Ninja interrupted with plans of introductions she couldn't help but cross her arms and look away. Why bother with that when it was a given that not all of them would survive with how extreme the situation was. She licked her lips and felt her heart begin race in excitement. Although it didn't last long with a nice plop into the fountain, she noticed a whimsical spiderman play off falling into the fountain... typical. With a smirk, she tuned back into the conversation. No crowd control for her if she was to be ported directly into the sewers. This made her happy that they already knew she wasn't much for crowd control and wanted a piece of the main action. She pulled her mask on and as she was ported, flipped her hand up and waved her fingers, slyly towards one silly spider-man in particular. Here in the murky, and grunge-filled sewers, already Neo and the hairless ninja spiderman decide to bark orders. Dividing and conquering, finally something spoken she could agree with. Heading two by two? "No thanks." Silk said with her arms crossed. Indeed, she already had plans to ditch them the moment she got there and although the pairs were probably randomized, she couldn't help but take an added insult being told to go two by two with Neo, the one who had objected to her haste earlier. As she began to slip away, she heard Murdock say wait. Something about his voice commanded an authority she would obey this time. "No need to split up. He's that way. We can catch him first if we hurry." Silk darted off towards the way he pointed. Maybe that would give them incentive to stop standing around and do something. If not, it wasn't like she wouldn't attempt to handle this alone. Again the adrenaline pumped through her veins and a rush that she hadn't felt since she began to develop her powers came through. Each slap against the hard water left an echo that bounded off in each direction. If she could concentrate, she'd be able to make each stride a little less booming but with the footsteps trailing behind, she could see it was unnecessary. The sewers became more dimly lit with a fork of six trails this time. Coming to a slower pace, She listened closely, ignoring the footsteps behind her and now she too, could hear a faint voice from the left most. Without so much as a word she went in the direction, as if calling her, daring her to bare witness to the scene. She smiled, they'd be there soon.	Name - Cynthia Tsukino Alias - Silk Age - 21 Earth # - 251 Powers - Spiderman standard with organic webbing Personality - Sly, Aggressive, Mysterious Appearance - Lookswise: Costume- BRIEF Bio - Cyn (pronounced Sin) was brought up in the slums after her parents relocated fromTrinidad to the Empire state. Her father was of japanese descent and her mother of African descent. Growing up very intelligent for her age, Cyn got to escape the less than adequate educational system right next to home and got to go to an upper private school that was a walk from where she lived, in Queens. Right after Peter Parker was bitten by the radioactive spider, the young lass, Cyn was bitten as well, however her powers didn't come into fruition until much later. She had one close friend she made around her neighborhood but he ended up dying when Cyn reached her junior year. It was then that she tapped into her powers and upon realizing her advantages, swore to take revenge. After she tracked down the gang members who she had suspected of killing her friend, she took up arms against them and would've killed them if it wasn't for Spiderman stopping her, barely. The two soon began a love-hate rivalry where Cyn had more of a ends-justify-the-means persona while peter parker did things vice versa. Off duty, Cyn is in school to become a chemist. Notes - Weaker in terms of strength, made up for in everything else Shooting a web to cover Electro's mouth after another failed attempt at city take over, Silk slinked off into the shadows while Spiderman yelled out "Hey!". Not in the mood for his meaningless argument as to why they shouldn't just kill Electro instead of waiting for him to break out of prison again, Silk webslinged her way to the top of a skyscraper and sighed. Another day of dealing with the same losers, saving the city yet nothing filling her void and in the long run nothing being solved for long. She wondered what Axl would have told her, if he could see her right now. The wind blew through her hair as a new voice carried through. She quickly turned and saw him and heard his plea for help. Odd looking guy and an even weirder way of speaking. A smile creeped upon her face. Just the type of thing that might help her find the thrill she was looking for. She licked her lips. "Sure. Just know I'll be doing things my way."
55,618	1,524	17	2,002	2,695	Steel took off running towards a now alerted brute. He wasn't sure if his arms could actually take the beating of one of these hulking creatures but he figured he would give it a try. As the two took off towards one another, Steel stopped running with his fleshy legs and began using his more nimble spider-legs. As the two came close the brute took a swing at him but wasn't fast enough as Steel had already hurled himself into the air and was inbound towards the brute. With one swift movement he snapped the legs down on top of the creature, sending it toppling into the stone beneath and knocking it out cold. "And they said you guys were-" Steel began but was cut off as he noticed four out of his six spider-legs. "Shoot, well this is going to be a lot more difficult now won't it." He said as he began to run towards some of the more light weight sentries.	Name - Peter "Petey" Parker Alias - The Steel Spider man or Steel Age - 19 Earth # - 01010011 Powers - Above average intelligence and good physical condition. Weaknesses - He is still just your everyday human on the inside. Personality - noble, wise-cracking, unconfident Appearance - BRIEF Bio - Peter was born and raised much like his 616 counterpart with his parents dropping him off with his aunt and uncle to then fall off the map and then supposedly die. The main differences between this Peter and the mainstream Peter was the field trip that changed the mainstream's life and got him his powers never happened to this one, it was closed due to an accident involving a worker and a radioactive spider. Sadly though many other events continued on such as Petey getting into wrestling and ending up getting his uncle shot. Peter began to channel his grief into his school work as he developed many different technologies that would make Tony Stark proud. As villains began to rise in full force Peter found that he now had a means of taking on these criminals with the various gadgets he had developed. At first Peter didn't have much of an idea of how to utilize his skills and gadgets but when a villain arose calling himself 'The Spiderman' arose he figured he would become the Ying to this Spider-man's Yang and decided to call himself 'The Steel Spider-man' or Steel as his full title was a bit of a mouthful. Petey began cleaning up his city using his spider themed apparel and gadgetry. Notes - Petey uses his mind more so than his brawn to beat his opponents in the form of his gadgets such as: -Spider-Legs: six long spider like appendages made from a space age alloy and can lift anywhere from 10 to 30 tons depending on how many arms are at work. They are mostly used for transportation but are able to be used for combat purposes. -M.A.C.S: Multi Alarm Cognitive System or M.A.C.S is a helmet that's connected to Petey's mind that warns him of incoming danger via what seems like a high pitched squeal and a reddening of his vision. -Swingers: two forearm gauntlets that are able to fire out lines of cable that are able to fasten themselves to almost any surface via ever so tiny barbs in the wire. Response to Spider Fist - Petey swung through the city with average nimbleness, he wasn't used to swinging yet as he usually used his Spider-Legs or normal legs to run around the city but he figured that swinging would be a lot faster. As he got to the climax of the swing he began hearing the voice of another asking for assistance. Peter almost plummeted to his doom but he was able to have his Spider-legs catch the wall and save him. As the mysterious Spider-Fist finished his speech Petey replied "Don't know why you'd ask me to help out, I'm not exactly a Bruce Lee when it comes to this stuff, but you can bet your buck I'm willing to help you out Mr," he finished staring with determination.
55,619	1,524	18	1,537	4,324	The Spiderman of this Earth could hear some commotion up above in the streets of NYC. He was hurt pretty bad with cuts and blood spewing from wounds around his left ribs. His back was against the wall and he removed his mask to breath a bit easier. This Peter Parker looked to be in his mid thirties, like he'd seen better days. He most certainly had. He could hear the other Spidermen from a little way back, the help he'd requested seemed to be there in the nick of time. When the small group of Spiders hit the scene, the older Spiderman muttered... "We have to get topside, Spider Fist told me the extraction portal would be above the Daily Bugle..." he managed to say to the group before passing out from pain and loss of blood. Topside in NYC... The Spidermen seemed to be giving it their all when thunder boomed and lightning cracked in the distance. The Goblin King was alerted to what was going on. The sudden appearance of multiple Spidermen was something he had to see with his own eyes. The hammer of Thor lifted him into the air and with another boom he was on his way to the other side of town. More Spidermen seemed to be coming from the sewers as the others continued to beat on the enemy. More civilians came out of hiding to witness the turning of the battle. When lightning cracked and the Symbiote Spiderman possessing versions of both Venom and Carnage was hit, the host body was charred and burned from the attack and the symbiotes were left screaming. "Interesting, now... come out come out little Spiders..." said the Goblin King walking down the middle of the once busy NY street as some scientists with Oscorp logos on their suits procured the symbiotes for later use. After Tarantula locked eyes with the away team he shouted to the group... "We need to get to the extraction point. It's starting to light up over the 'Bugle!" Parker Peterson screamed through his black Tarantula mask and absorbing his extra arms, swinging more sharply now after taking a goblin sentry off his glider with a flip kick off a building. ~KL~	Name - Parker Peterson Alias - Spiderman, Tarantula Age - 22 Earth # - 1423 Powers - Spiderman standard, organic webbing, paralyzing bite, extra arms Weaknesses - standard human weaknesses, no spider sense Personality - stoic, misunderstood, fearless Appearance - BRIEF Bio - Sixteen year old Parker was bitten by a spider just outside of a gypsy fortune teller booth at Coney Island in NYC after the fortune teller said to him "great power and responsibility will find you..." Over the course of the next year Parker gained spider like abilities and eventually grew extra arms. With powers now mystic in nature, Parker would learn to 'absorb' his extra arms within him. The now seventeen year old Parker created the costume and alias of Tarantula after bringing the man to justice who was responsible for the murder of his Aunt May. Five years into his career he has seen quite a bit. As Tarantula, Parker became a member of his universe's Dr. Strange's more mystical team of Defenders along with Damon Hellstorm, Jack O' Lantern, Black Cat, and Ghost Rider. He's defeated such enemies as the King of the Symbiotes, the Green Goblins , and aided the Defenders in battles with Mephisto, Adam Warlock, and Blackheart. Notes - Organic webbing isn't as sticky as the 616 Spiderman's artificial webbing. He's still a pretty standard Spiderman just with a darker look and more mystical tone. Currently lives with his wheelchair bound Uncle Ben. Response to Spider Fist - Tarantula stood in awe of the oddly dressed Spider Fist. Parker had heard tales of other Spiders in the multiverse by Dr. Strange, but he never imagined one to be all Kung-Fu master Spiderman. The 'Fist took off his mask, revealing a familiar face in Danny Rand that resembled the Iron Fist on Tarantula's alternate Earth. "You can trust me." Spider Fist spoke out walking closer to the six armed spider man. "I'm not taking off my mask. How do you even know I'm not one of the badguys?" Tarantula asked in response. "The talisman brought me to you ... through the portal. Had you been an insane man bonded to a symbiote or an out of control genetic experiment it would have shown me someone else on the other side of the portal..." Spider Fist answered. "Sounds legit. Where are we off to first?" Parker asked. "Into the Negative Zone to regroup with others. At the Spiders' Web..." responded the kung-fu spider putting his mask back on before leaping into the portal with Tarantula. ~KL~
55,620	1,524	19	1,966	2,618	Spider-Rogue Spider-Rogue swung around a skyscraper, the dark panels broken and falling down to the empty streets. It was brutal looking, a place exactly where his universe could have been. A dark and goblin infested world. Underneath the mask, he knew sadness rested on his face. It seemed like too much for one Spider-Man to deal with. What would happen if it was his world? would he be ready? The answer lurked in the back of his mind, surrounded by a light of hope but embracing itself in darkness. No way! I won't succumb to that! Those damn goblins are going to get their warted asses kicked! At the sound of Tarantula's voice, he changed directions and headed for the extraction point. He flipped several times until he was perched on a ledge, forty stories high. " LET's GO!" he shouted out towards the others. He raised up to his full height. " Guys its time to get back!"	Name - Peter Murdock-Parker Often goes simply by Murdock Alias - The Spider Age - 26 Earth # - 1501 Powers - Standard Spider-Man powers Standard Daredevil powers Combined Spidey/Radar Sense Martial Arts Training Weaknesses - Standard Spider-Man weaknesses Standard Daredevil weaknesses Blind Can't webswing as well as other Spider-Men Personality Charming, Fearless, Morally Flexible Standard Spidey costume, but with black instead of blue, and the 'lenses' in the mask aren't actually lenses, just blacked out reflective pieces. He looks more like Matt Murdock than Peter Parker. Refer to Charlie Cox's Matt Murdock if you need a visual. Peter Murdock-Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider at age 16. He was at a public exhibition for 'safe' nuclear experiments when the spider, irradiated by accident during a demonstration, bit him on the back of the neck. He felt dizzy, and his vision blurred, before he passed out. He awoke in the hospital, only able to 'see' dancing colored blurs. He was blind. However, he started to notice that he had strange new abilities when he awoke. He was stronger and faster than before, able to cling to walls, and was able to sense oncoming danger. However, his senses (excluding sight, of course) were also unbelievably enhanced. He adjusted to this new life as anyone would, and was greatly supported by his uncle, Ben Parker. Peter's parents (who, when married, hyphenated their last names) died in an accident when he was very young, and was taken in by Ben and May Parker, Peter's matrilinial uncle and aunt. May developed cancer not long after, and died, leaving Ben to take care of Peter by himself. Unknown to Ben, Peter's new therapist, Mr. Stick (as he called himself), had been teaching Peter a kind of martial arts as a way of release. The whole spider fiasco turned Peter away from a career in science, and he decided instead to pursue law in college. Meanwhile, Ben's boxing career had started winding down. He was getting older, and wouldn't be able to sustain it for much longer. A rather shady opportunity came to him one day, a large sum of money in exchange for throwing a match. He reluctantly accepted. When the time came, however, he did just the opposite; he won the match in record time. Battlin' Ben Parker finally had the glory he'd been waiting for his entire career. It was short-lived. He found hitmen waiting for him in his home, and was murdered. Peter had just gotten his graduate's degree at the time, and had been accepted into law school. The loss was devastating. He realized that he'd been given incredible powers, and never used them to anyone's benefit other than his own. Could he have saved Ben? Probably not, since he wouldn't have been there. He realized, though, that he could have helped many more people, and thus made it his responsibility to do so. Since then, he's taken up defending New York full-time. By day, as Peter Murdock, Attorney at Law, and by night as The Spider. Notes - - He may not be quite as smart science-wise as other Spider-Man, but he graduated law school. He recently opened up his own practice with a friend. - To shed some light on 'Morally-flexible," it simply means he's willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. The ends justify the means. Response to Spider Fist - "Well... If you really need me, I'm up to it. Let's go." He started walking away, when Spider-Fist grabbed his shoulder. "Other way, friend." "... Oh."
55,621	1,525	0	1,525	521	The morning was chilly but mildly breezy one as it. The few students that would answer the call of duty and adventure to the tiny school. Ironforrest, the town creating a school from its own town hall as it didn't have facilities needed to support a school elsewhere. Gathering up in a line outfront the school, the students would meet their teacher(s) there. Gazing over the three of them, a male in a lab coat would be the first to greet them. He was six foot four, slim, had a t shirt and jeans on and a stethoscope around his neck. "Right... so... I'm Lute. I'm the... shit.. what was it called again.. head... pres.. PRINCIPAL! yes. I'm the principal of your school, Ironforrest Academy. Also happen to be the nurse, so there's that. We got a few more teachers on staff... so i'd like to introduce you to them..." he explained scratching his head a bit. "First up we got Bob. he is weapons maintenance along with field tester teacher. some of you are from the island, that's ok and can probably sleep through his classes. Though, i wouldn't advise it, he is rather... stern with no sleeping." he explained, gesturing to a short man who had muscles well defined, veins bulging and was in a smith's apron. "Like the man said, don't mess with me classes and we'll be good. Aye?" asked the short man. He had a forge hammer resting on his shoulder while they waited. "Next... this is Miss Moose." he said gesturing to the next woman, she had seven fox tails coming from her back. "She shall be general semblance and aura studies." He explained. The woman had on a long and simple dress, giving a professional look that was topped off with glasses and long hair. "Pleasure.' she said, curtsying. "and... well... they're somewhere. You'll know when you see them, they're your instructors for combat. Twins, Ebony and Ivory." Lute said. "well, go get settled into your dorms.. fourth floor and a few rooms in the attic." explained the doctor, shrugging. "Three students..." he saighed and put his fingers to his nose. "more teachers than kids..." Lute sighed heavily and turned to enter into the building. "Class starts in an hour, it'll be the lecture hall." he said and the rest of the teachers dispersed into the building. All three of them. The far left student looked around herself. She was leaning on a large hammer with her arms folded, shivering a bit. "Ugh... cold..." she shivered and looked at the other two gathered. "So... I'm Mika... you two?" she asked, tucking the scarf up over her mouth as to conserve her heat. Another shudder ran through the girl, making her silently curse under her breath. "Fucking medicine..." she cursed.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,622	1,525	1	216	38	Much Earlier Silvi sat at the desk in her room and looked over the compound that was both Wulka Armaments, one of the premier weapons and armour makers on Ferris, and her home. From her second floor bedroom, she could see not only the private grounds surrounding her house, but also the workshops, design studio, laboratory, range and testing grounds that were spread across the five acre lot. Smiling, she watching as early dawn light crept across the grounds, while in front of her, she was carefully disassembling, cleaning, and then re-assembling Moonlight Shard. Humming softly as she worked, her tail twitched slightly as her bedroom slowly swung open. “HEYSISAREYOUEXCITEDFO-” Her brother shouted as he burst into her room, shining a spot light on her…empty…bed. “What are you? Twelve?” She said with a smirk, from the other side of the room. “Damn,” Her older brother Habeen muttered. “I just wanted to make sure you were up in time to get to the Academy.” He added louder, doing his best to look virtuous, and failing. “Riiight,” Silvi replied, putting the last few pieces together. “You’re so concerned you decided to ‘wake’ me a full 3 hours before I’d even need to leave here to get to Iron Forrest…asshole.” Habeen laughed. “And a good morning to you to dear sister!” Shaking her head as her brother left, she cycled Moonlight Shard between modes before sliding it back into its scabbard. Standing, she hung the sword on her belt, grabbed her collapsed shield, and went in search of breakfast before some morning practice. Now Standing in front of the old town hall, Silvi was less than enthusiastic about what she saw. Three of us? Seriously? Only partially listening to…Lute was it? She instead did her best to observe the other two out of the corner of her eye. Great two humans, an I’m the tallest… She thought a tad sourly. Silvi had no problem with humans in general, at least a third of the company’s people, and their cook, were human, as well as several of her grade school friends…it was just that being the only faunus student, and the tallest by a wide margin, made her feel a tad ‘exposed’ as it were. Apparently the staffing meet-and-greet was over and they had an hour to kill. "So... I'm Mika... you two?" “Hi, my name is Silvi,” She said, offering a hand; as she spoke, her tail unconsciously wrapped around her legs, a little tick when she was nervous. “Are you okay Mika?” The tiny girl seemed to be shivering pretty good; by Atlas standards, Ferris was a fairly warm place thanks to the active volcano, but visitors still found it a bit on the cool side…Silvi however, being a local, barely even noticed.	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,623	1,525	2	1,765	12	Earlier Aiden was walking around the town before heading to the school. Wanting to get a good feel for the city in case things turn out horrible for him and he needed a way out. The only thing he could think of was that it was so damn cold. 'Meh, why did I think it was such a good idea to come to this school?! Ugh,' he thought as he took the sights in. Seeing the small town as he almost shook his head. 'if I was still with my old gang, we could easily run this town..probably.' Aiden sighs lightly as he thought of his old gang. He told himself it was for the best to get them locked up. His father was going insane, and hopefully, with him being behind bars he won't end up dead. Pushing thought asides as he went to the market and take a look around. Finding small selections that people were selling as he browses what they had. Getting hungry from just seeing the food out on display. 'Piece of cake' he thought to himself. Once the Fruit seller looks away, Aiden swipes two apples away and strode away quickly. Putting one apple in his pocket as he munch on the first. Eating his breakfast of the day. Now Aiden did not know how to take all of this in. There was hardly any students here and the teachers themselves seem to be uninspired to be here as well. He wonders why they were doing this, was the fall of Beacon so bad that they needed Hunters/Huntress that badly around here? Pushing the thought away for now as he looks over his team. Two lovely ladies and one of them were a Faunus, neat. He never knew why so many humans had problems with Faunus. They weren't that different from each other. Though he could be biased since he works with Faunus a lot more than the normal human would have, and most of them were thieves like he was. 'Hmmm let's just forget about that part than...' He thought as he returns his focus on his teammates. "So... I'm Mika... you two?" “Hi, my name is Silvi" Letting them chat for a bit before he made his introduction. "Hello, Mika and Silvi. Names Aiden." He said with a warm smile. His hands behind his head as he walks closer to them. Though he put his hands down as his right hand went to his pocket. Pulling out the second apple as he offers it up, "Anyone hungry? Had an extra Apple on me."	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,624	1,525	3	1,525	521	Yes... i'm fine... just... need to take some medicine... body's chemicals are at a natural imbalance in a rather deadly way, so this stuff prevents me from dieing. Calms down my hyperactivity as well, but the negative is that i tend to get cold rather easily... slow moving blood means i'm lethargic occasionally and tend to be cold, no matter what sauna i'm in... explained Mika, another shiver running through her now as she wrapped the scarf thicker, hoping to keep herself warmer. "As for the food, i'll pass... tend to enjoy my meals hot, unsurprisingly. Pleasure to meet you both though." added the girl, looking around them. "I saw a soup restaurant on the way in if you want to drop our shit off and head there." Mika said, referencing a place that Silvi would know as the Little Ladle, a nice little restaurant specializing in soups run by an old couple.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,625	1,525	4	216	38	“Well…shit…” Sivli muttered as Mika mentioned her health problems, though it made her question just why someone with her health ‘issues’ would want to become a huntress; her aunt had told her much about her own travel, that she knew huntresses could find themselves away from civilization for extended periods of time…not good if one needed regular medication. But before she could think on that too much more, the other human introduced himself. “Nice to meet you Aiden,” She replied, smiling. “I’ll pass on the apple, but soup sounds good. Was up pretty early and I don’t remember the last time I was in Little Ladle.” Reaching into a pocket, she pulled out one of the latest models of Scroll to check the time and reply to a message. “My stuff isn’t here yet. Managed to sweet talk our driver into dropping it off here after he finishes his rounds; but go ahead, I’ll wait here for you two.”	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,626	1,525	5	1,765	12	Aiden listens to Mika and Sivli chat as they discuss Mika's health. Aiden thought it was weird that Mika was here since she requires such medicine, but at the same time, you gotta do what you gotta do. He learned this from his old friends in the gang. A few of them were sickly and couldn't afford the payments for such medicine. Which leads them to a life of crime. Which got Aiden thinking, what kind of sickness she got, but he never asked since it would seem rude to do so when he just met her. "mm alright, more apple for me later," Aiden said after they reject his apple. "Eh, I'm good for food for now. Maybe in a bit later, so we can all go," he said as he looks over at Silvi. Noticing her new phone as he wonders how much he could get if he swiped it from her. Though once that thought came, he quickly pushes it out of his head. You're not that person any more Aiden...you gotta quit thinking like that.' "Maybe we should go to our dorm rooms and check it out."	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,627	1,525	6	1,525	521	Yeah, let's get settled in, even if they're bringing it here, you can atleast formulate an idea or something in your head, Sivli. mentioned the girl, picking up her stuff and walking into the building. If the other two would follow, they'd fin themselves in the main entrance way for the building. A board was posted with room assignments. there had been about twenty kids that had accepted, but each one was crossed out with different reasons written next to their names. a few were question marks, showing questionable attendance and then the three of them had check marks next to them. Silvi and Mika were assigned to room A1 while Aiden was assigned to A2 across the hall. these were rooms in the attic, probably the only dorm space left to use in the building as most was renovated to different things. areas for classrooms, interior training an so forth. poor school really was down on its luck and funds judging by it. However, it was independent from all the other major schools that were still around, so it didn't need to conform or defer to other rules. Heading up to the attic now, the group would find each room had a pair of beds in it. Doors were left open so they could talk. "So... where is everyone from?" Mika asked now, looking around as she put away her stuff, the driver bringing up Silvi's stuff shortly.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,628	1,525	7	216	38	Maybe we should go to our dorm rooms and check it out. "Yeah, let's get settled in, even if they're bringing it here, you can at least formulate an idea or something in your head, Sivli." “That’s…actually not a bad idea.” Silvi replied, following after Mika and Aiden. Walking through the town hall, Silvi was mostly curious to see how the building had been changed; even though she’d never really been in line to take over any facet of the company, her parents had still insisted she at least understand the basics of how things were done…which included more trips than she could remember to this very building for some tediously boring meeting with some local official. Eventually they found their way to their assigned rooms, and the other two set about storing their gear while she waited for hers to arrive. "So... where is everyone from?" Taking off her jacket she threw it onto the unclaimed bed, while unbuckling her weapons belt and hanging it off a bed post. “Local girl.” She replied, sitting down and curling her tail onto her lap. “My folks place is about 20 min outta town. It’s al-” Before she could get any further an older human male appeared in the doorway, knocking as he did so. The man was in his late 40s or early 50s with dark hair that was liberally streaked with grey, and he was dressed in a tidy set of green coveralls with the Wulka Armaments logo on the left breast. “Hey there little cub, they said I’d find you up here.” Silvi let out a surprised ‘yip’ and leapt to her feet. “Berun!” She said as she rushed over. Sticking her head into the hall, she saw her suitcases of clothes and her tool chest sitting there, just behind him. Smiling, she stood back straight and cuffed him in the arm. “You fool.” She chided. “Why’d you lug them all the way up here? You could’ve just told me you were here, I’d have come and got them.” Berun simply smiled and rested a hand on her shoulder. “If I can help you in whatever small way, I’m glad to do it. I might not be able to help fight those beasts, but I know you’ll do fine.” Silvi smiled and gave Berun a hug. “Thanks.” She said softly; letting go, she then waved to Aiden and Mika. “These are the rest of the student body, Aiden and Mika,” From the look in Berun’s eyes, he was no happier about the turn out than Silvi was. “Nice to meet you.” He replied, nodding to the others before turning his attention back to Silvi. “Well little cub, I’d best be off.” He said as he turned to leave. “Don’t let Daddy or Habeen work you too hard.” Berun just laughed as he headed back the way he’d come. Silvi stepped into the hallway, first dragging her suitcases and then the tool chest into her and Mika’s room. Opening the suitcases, she began to pack her clothes into ‘her’ closet and chest of drawers. “Right, like I was saying, local born. My folks own Wulka Armaments, Berun there, he’s been working for us for as long as I can remember.” To those who knew what to look for all her clothes were, while not flashy, top quality brands, the type of stuff that people who valued quality over simply a ‘brand name’ sought out.	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,629	1,525	8	1,765	12	Aiden follows the two girls to the rooms as he thinks to himself. 'Huh, very quiet around here. Wonder why no one here yet.' Though that question was soon answered as he saw the board with all the student's names, or at least had their names before they were crossed out or had a question mark over them. 'I guess the fall of Beacon scared more people off.' He assumed before joining the others at the rooms. Seeing he was the only one in room A1 at the moment. He didn't have much since he didn't bring much with him. Throwing his only bag on the bed as he walks over to the girls' room. "So... where is everyone from?" Aiden thought about it, wondering if he should even say where he from. Thinking of just giving a vague answer as he said, "Vale. Was from a small town. Nothing great about it. Always wanted an exciting life." He smiles but soon that disappear as he jump nearly out of his skin when he heard a knock on the door. Stepping to the side, as it seems the man who was standing there was a butler or something for Silvi. Doing a small wave at Berun as he saw the look in the old man eyes. He didn't seem to be pleased at all about the current situation. He couldn't blame him since this Silvi looks to be a corporate 'princess' where she should have been sent to Atlas or something more respectable.	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,630	1,525	9	1,525	521	Mika looked around and raised an eyebrow at the sight of the boy jumping out of his skin. "If you think that is scary, then it won't be easy for you with the grimm... no formal fighting can prepare you for it... hell, i've only had a few fights myself, during travels with my parents. As for me, moved around a lot. Never stayed in one place for too long." she explained, sighing and looking down at her hands as they started to shake. Her breathing pace began to increase and quickly Mika got out an injection and stabbed it into her arm, the needle dispensing the liquid quickly into her. There was a visible shudder and a sigh of relief now, the girl pulling it out of herself before sitting on the bed to regain herself now. "Must... have forgotten to take my pills this morning in the... excitement. So to speak..." said the girl, eye glossing over for a small bit as she relaxed into the bed. "Rather hungry now...." the girl giggled.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,631	1,525	10	216	38	Once again, there was a momentary flash of concern about Mika’s health in Silvi’s eyes, as the smaller girl injected her medication. Part of her really wanted to ask Mika just what was wrong, if they were going to be on the same team, then knowing stuff like that could be very useful if something went wrong while they were out; but Sivli couldn’t muster the nerve to ask, hell, she’d only just the other two. Hi I’m Silvi, nice to meet you, by the way, just what are you dying of!? Yeah…that’d go over great… She thought sardonically to herself. As these thoughts rattled about, unconsciously she wrapped her tail up around her waist now, and began to idly play with the tip of it. "Rather hungry now...." The giggle snapped her out of her own thoughts, and she smiled at Mika. “That sounds like a good idea. I dunno about other faunus, but wolves like me have a pretty fast metabolism, and I had breakfast like 3 hours ago, so yeah I’m getting kinda hungry myself.” Letting go of her tail, she turned her smile towards Aiden, she started to head for the door. “You coming? Hey, tell you what.” She said with a moment’s inspiration. “Food is on me, so long as I don’t go crazy with my spending, my folks are pretty generous with the lien.”	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,632	1,525	11	1,765	12	Aiden was a bit annoyed from Mika comment, "I was just startled, never expect someone to show up already." He said but soon got over it. Not wanting to cause anything yet with his new teammates just yet. Plus he was about to get some free food, so all is good. "Yeah, I'm coming along. Free food is free food." He smiles as he follows the two girls out. "Have an idea of where to eat, Rich girl?" Aiden said, giving the nickname to Silvi as all of her actions so far seem to be qualities of someone who has quite a bit of money. She has the latest scrolls, which cost quite a bit for being the newest model out in the market. She has a butler of her own, as well as it seems her family holds quite a bit of power. 'hmm I should look into her family line to see how rich and powerful they are.'	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,633	1,525	12	1,525	521	Mika got off the bed and followed the two of them towards the soup place that they were heading to. "Yeah... food is good." Giggled Mika, the drug clearly being rather powerful. "Sorry if i get all bubbly and stuff, it takes a lil bit to balance out when it's an injection and not pills." she explained, following along and attempting to put an arm around Silvi's shoulder all giddily and happily. "So armorers making money... hehe... weapons are good... i like mine." she said, holing the hammer by the head with one hand. "Super cool!"	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,634	1,525	13	216	38	Have an idea of where to eat, Rich girl? Silvi playfully stuck her tongue out at Aiden, more in response to his tone of voice, than what he actually said. “I’m not that rich, I mean, I’m no Schnee or anything.” She said brightly, before muttering. “Bigoted fuck-buckets.” She was chuckling at Mika’s ‘hyper-happy’ mode, but let out another surprised ‘yip’ as the short girl tried to wrap an arm around her waist, and ended up with half a handful of Silvi’s skinny backside. Doing her best to extricate herself, without making it look too obvious that that was what she was doing. “Nice hammer.” She said as she slipped free. “Sometime soon we should bomb out to my place and introduce you two to my folks; I mean if you’re going to be hunters and huntresses, it wouldn’t hurt to have some personal contacts with at least one armourer.” She added, grinning playfully. “Anyways, back to food. ‘Little Ladle’ still sound good?” With the other two in agreement, they made their way to the soup café. ‘Little Ladle’ was a local institution as far as eateries went; owned by an elderly human couple named Ube and Lavi Sno, it’d been selling good soups, quickly and for a reasonable price, for as long as most people could remember. As they entered, they were greeted by Lavi Sno, a bustling grey haired woman who seemed to exude large amounts of positive energy. “Come in, come in!” She chirped brightly as she rushed towards them across the sparsely populated little place. “You must be some of our new hunters and huntresses to be!” Reaching the trio, she clasped each of their hands and shook them. “Well good for you kids, we can never have too many folks willing to keep the Grimm at bay.” Her words were caught by the few other customers, who added their approvals with a smattering of applause. Having been seated at a window booth, they were all presented with simple menus and left to make up their minds while ‘Auntie Lavi’ as she insisted she be called, went to get their drinks; and once they had all made up their minds, the three of them quickly found a rather substantial bowl of soup placed before each of them.	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,635	1,525	14	1,765	12	'Little ladle, huh?' Aiden thought as he walks inside and was greeted by the friendliest, cheerful, old woman he ever seen. Smiling from such a warm greeting as they got their seats. Aiden was looking over the menu as he thinks of what to get. He orders a sweet tea for his drink and got a bowl of crab soup. Though the soup quickly came as he orders it. Smiling as such a quick service as he said, "Thanks, Auntie Levi." he smiles at her. Calling her by her nickname she wanted. Tasting it as he savors the flavor. "mmm perfect." he said as he starts to eat his soup. He could get used to living up here if the rest of area is this nice.	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,636	1,525	15	1,525	521	thank you... said the girl, giggling a bit as her soup came, a clam chowder. The girl also didn't speak too terribly much, she seemed pretty occupied with the giant bowl before herself. The meal itself was filled with idle chatter about the school and Mika somewhat remembering there were a pair of twins that were supposedly their combat instructors. Mika brought up the point and coincidentally, they were disturbed by a pair of what looked like kids clashing infront of the window they were sitting next to, just appearing with the sound of thunder from clashing blades and the pair blinked out of existence. "Hehe... funny how they show up as we were talking about them." giggled Mika now, bowl empty and girl happy.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,637	1,525	16	216	38	Silvi sat back with a satisfied sigh, chuckling at Mika’s comment. “Almost like they might have been checking up on the Academy’s only students.” Once again, she couldn’t quite keep a note of disappointment out of her voice. Still savouring the rich, meaty, she sipped a glass of water and sighed once more as her scroll began to vibrate. “Oops,” She said, pulling it out and looking at it. “That’s a timer I set; we should probably head back relatively soon…they might notice if we’re late…” She added with a smirk. Sliding out from her seat, she rubbed her rather full belly appreciatively, before heading over to the till. There was no-one in sight, but when she rang the bell a mountain of a man, about the same age as Auntie Levi stepped out of the back. As he walked over to the till, it was obvious he moved with a limp. “You must be the students Levi told me about.” The man rumbled. “I’m Ube, Uncle Ube to my friends.” He added with a smile. “A pleasure to meet you.” Silvi replied. She was generally used to either looking down or at least across at most people, even full grown adults, but even she had to look up to look Ube in the eye. “I was a hunter once.” Ube went on. “But I miss timed a dodge, and well…let me say this, at least the Beowulf never got a second swing in.” She was unsure how to respond to that, but Ube quickly moved on. “Now then, you kids come back here any time you need a good hot meal to fill your bellies.” Seeing Silvi pulling out her wallet, he waved her off. “That’s not need Ms. Wulka, I know you for sure are good for it, but think of this as me and Levi’s little way of doing what we can to help; for you three, your meals are on us.” Her eyes widened and her tail twitched in surprise. “That-that is very generous of you, thank you so much!” Reaching out, Sivli shook Ube’s hand, his giant mitt enveloping her own hand. With the, aborted, attempt to pay done, she thanked Ube once more and stepped out onto the street.	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,638	1,525	17	1,765	12	Aiden nodded in agreement about the food while giving little notice to the twins outside. He'll worry about school when school is in session. Eating the last portion of his soup as he pushes the bowl away. If he kept it near him, he might start up again. "Ugh..I think I ate too much." He half joke as he rubs his stomach. Loving the food as he gets up and follows Silvi. He was about to say thanks to Silvi until the big man who introduced himself as Uncle Ube came forward to greet the kids. Aiden just found this whole place weird and not normal at all. When he was growing up, hardly anyone gave a rats ass about him or anyone other than themselves. "T-thanks," Aiden said a bit sheepishly. Never thought he would say that to anyone he didn't know very well. Putting his hands behind his head as he tries to play it off like it was nothing.	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,639	1,525	18	1,525	521	Standing up with the group, the Mika smiled and gave a bow. "Thank you Uncle Ube!" the girl said rather happily. She seemed to be getting over the "high" her medicine gave her as she seemed to be less giggly at this moment in time. Walking out the door now, The group of students found the street empty, people watching on from doorways in enjoyment and awe as the two from outside the window seemed to be going at it. Somehow, the twins were teleporting around the street, making contact with cracks like bullets, one holding the weapon in their left hand, the otherholding it in their right. short sleeve white shirt, black slacks and a grey belt, the two had black and white hair, black on the left, white on the right of their heads; spitting image of one another. AS much as they looked like one another, they both looked like the genders, androgynous. Upon noticing the three students, the pair stopped their warp battle and began to speak in unison. "Hello. You three must be the new students. Welcome to combat training." Said Ebony. "Hello. You three must be the new students. Welcome to combat training." Said Ivory. "I'm Ebony." Said Ebony, on the left, raising their left hand; holding their smg/sword. "I'm Ivory." Said Ivory, on the right, raising their right hand; holding their smg/sword. "Who has fought grimm before?" Asked Ebony. "Who has fought grimm before?" Asked Ivory. Mika sheepishly raised her hand. "Traveling with my parents once or twice... it's part of the reason i want to become a huntress... to protect people." explained the now once more soft spoken girl.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,640	1,525	19	216	38	Silvi’s tail curled uncertainly around her leg as she tried to make sense of the duo who’d been sparring in the streets; their ability to instantly move from one place to another was like nothing she’d ever heard of, and their mirror imaging of each other raised even more questions for her. "I'm Ebony." "I'm Ivory." "Who has fought grimm before?" "Who has fought grimm before?" Please tell me they won’t be speaking like that ALL the time… She thought. She was sure they must fine it ‘cute’, but to Silvi the novelty was going to wear off really fast. “I have,” She said in response to their question. “Nothing major, just a few boarbatusks. My aunt is a huntress, and she has been instructing me, on and off, when she’s been in town.”	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,641	1,525	20	1,765	12	Teleportation. Aiden had seen something like this before but not as advanced as these two. He was awed by their movements as a small smile form on his lips. 'Heh, the old gang would probably have loved these two if the were the criminal type.' Aiden thought. Though thinking about his old friends and what he would consider family, made him feel sad. Sighing as he tries to push his old memories aside as he saw the twins stop sparing with each other and teleported towards them. "I'm Ebony." "I'm Ivory." "Who has fought grimm before?" "Who has fought grimm before?" 'And now the old gang would have hated them.' Aiden chuckle. Knowing the act would get old quiclky with the low like thugs in the group. Aiden look at the two, wondering which one was female and which one was male. Or if they were both the same gender. Ugh he hated twins at times. "Never fought grimm. Mostly stay within the city and the Grim never got the chance to venture that far in."	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,642	1,525	21	1,525	521	The twins nodded in sync again ,the pair pointing at the boy now. "You'll have an issue." Said Ebony. "You'll have an issue." Said Ivory. However, the pair of them then each pointed at one of the girls now. "You two should have an easier time." "You two should have an easier time." The pair of them then blinked, one at a time, from where they were standing to the opposite end of the main street in town. "We're testing your combat abilities." Ebony called out to the group, getting into a combat position, low and with theirback pressed against their twin's. "We're testing your combat abilities." Ivory called out to the group, getting into a combat position, low and with theirback pressed against their twin's. "Ten seconds." Ebony called out. "Ten seconds." Ivory called out.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,643	1,525	22	216	38	She was right, the novelty had already worn off. Doing her best to keep her muttering to herself, Silvi drew Moonlight Shard from her hip and ejected the dark blue Dust vial from the grip, and deftly swapping it for a yellow vial from the pouch on her other side, with well-practiced ease. Dust swap complete, she took Aegis Hammer off of its hanger and unfolded it. Moving her feet into a ready stance, with her left foot leading, she held her buckler at shoulder height, using her perspective from the twins to mask her upper torso. Her blade was held back over her right shoulder, ready to lung into an attack or parry a blow. Lastly she activated her semblance; some semblance caused overt changes with their users, Silvi’s was much more subtle. Her eyes merely glowed slightly, and her pupils dilated a significant amount, but that was about it from the outside. To Silvi however the effect was much more pronounced. The world seemed sharper, colours brighter and even the slightest motions were noticeable. Staring at the twin over the top of her shield, she studied them, how the muscles in their necks twitched, where their eyes focused, how their body weight shifted, everything…or at least as much as she could; two opponents did make things just a tad more difficult. From easy and relaxed, to full combat mode took her about eight seconds.	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,644	1,525	23	1,765	12	Aiden shrugged when they told him he would have an issue. 'Blah blah blah..you'll have an issue. Cause you never fought grim. We speak together cause we're special' Aiden mock in his head. 'I'll show you two freaks.' Aiden thought in a more nasty tone. He never likes it when people look down on him or belittle him. Even if they have a point. Though while Aiden was pissed on the inside, on the outside he had his 'I don't care' look he mastered. He would simply grab his twin swords as he slowly pulls them out. Looking over at Silvi getting ready. 'huh, maybe the rich girl can fight,' Aiden thought. He knew he was hypocritical but he rarely seen any type of rich person able to fight. It actually made him glad that not all of them were worthless. "So..any plans?" Aiden asked towards his teammates. Keeping his eyes on the twins as he wonders if they will teleport behind them and if they did, which one will they teleport back too. Which two of the three of them will get attacked.	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,645	1,525	24	1,525	521	Mika sighed, not doing anything rash at the moment. Taking out her hammer, the girl held it in her arms and waited for them to come at her. The Twins didn't disappoint, however the pair went at Silvi and Mika, seemingly ignoring Aiden. The first one teleported and as soon as they appeared infront of mika, the other one teleported and moved infront of silvi, each bringing their sword down and clashing with the girl's respective weapons, heading to the outside of them, leaving the students between them and Aiden, beginning to attempt to draw them out, doing a mixup of attacks, high, lows, mids, enough pressure to keep them on the defensive. Mika seeed to struggle at first, the girl needing to use her weapon to block the incoming attacks, after a short time she seemed to be dodging them consistently.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,646	1,525	25	216	38	So..any plans? “Win.” The twins attack both did and didn’t catch Silvi by surprise. On one hand, she saw the minute tensing and shifting in both of them as they made ready to strike, on the other, finding her opponent at point blank due to a near instantaneous ‘teleporting’ was not something she had ever encountered. Even with seeing the two of them demonstrating it earlier, she was still caught out by it. Furiously blocking and parrying with her sword and shield, she quickly found she was being driven onto her back heel, fighting defensively just to stay in the fight. Never let your opponent dictate the fight. Her aunt’s words echoed in her head as she gave ground. Use your semblance, find your opening, fight on YOUR term. As Silvi moved to deflect yet another strike, she hit a trigger concealed in the grip of Aegis Hammer. Up until now, she’d been using it in its ‘unpowered’ state, just a physical barrier to intercept and redirect incoming blows; but now, pulling the trigger activated the small vial of dark purple ‘gravity’ Dust that was loaded into the handle. As the blade struck, the face of the shield flashed purple and gave a rather significant ‘push’ to the weapon. Prior to starting her first bits of training with her aunt, her mum had added a ‘training’ setting to the shield, as at full power it was capable of reflecting blows with lethal force, and that was far to dangerous for sparring with.	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,647	1,525	26	1,765	12	Aiden hit the button on his twin short swords and they change into their range forms. Holding twin pistols as he aims one each at a twin. Firing one shot off to push the twins back a bit so they can have a breather. Walking closer to the other two as he changes one pistol back into a sword. While Aiden would be pissed that they ignored him, it was a good move to go after them instead. Each had a single weapon while he had two. He could have blocked both and his teammates would have the chance to strike back. Another reason was due to the fact they had more training fighting Grim than him. Though Aiden didn't like this last reason in his opinion. Just because he hadn't fought Grim didn't mean he wasn't a fighter. He was more skilled at fighting people then monsters, which might give him an upper hand here. "While I like the idea of winning, that's not really a plan. We should try to outnumber one of them. Two on one while the third person deals with the sibling. Any takers?" Aiden asked as he kept firing at the twins with his one pistol, trying to keep them dodging though he knew it was futile.	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,648	1,525	27	1,525	521	The bullets and Aiden's attacks were registered by the twins, seeming to teleport before he could actually register a proper shot. As for the shield, before her eyes, the twin attacking Silvi disappeared infront of her shield after the impact, which sent her flying. That was when she got laid out by the twin appearing behind her and using the force of being sent flying against the girl. Meanwhile, mika kept fighting the one against her, unable to actually get an attack off, but surprisingly the teacher couldn't hit the girl either. And it truly was an impressive sight to behold, until it stopped being impressive and the girl began getting hit constantly, the teacher landing punches on her constantly, throwing a heavy punch and sending her flying, knocking the wind out of her and sending her down the block, disappearing from sight.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,649	1,525	28	216	38	She was about to answer Aiden when a couple of things happened at once; one, was her opponent blinking out of sight just as she connected and then hitting her from behind, and two, as she was doing her best to recover from being hit by her own counter, she saw Mika get punted down the block. “Shit” Silvi could feel her frustration mounting; her semblance could let her see how her opponent was likely to move, even before they consciously committed to an attack, but this ‘jumping’ had no tells…or at least none she’d spotted yet. If fighting with others, don’t let yourselves get separated by your opponents. If you split up let it be on your terms. “Aiden, on me!” She yelled as she pointed to where Mika had come to a stop. Her mind was working in over drive, but one of the key things her aunt had really impressed on her during their infrequent training sessions was developing the ability to think and act quickly even in the middle of a fight. With the flick of a finger, she reset Aegis Hammer to ‘combat power’ and swapped Moonlight Shard to ‘ranged’ mode. Slamming her shield to the ground, as she triggered the Dust, she tucked herself on top of it as she did. The gravity charge tried to push away the object in front, and when (unsurprisingly) that didn’t work the force was directed to other way, the end result being that Silvi was launched in a moderately controlled fashion towards Mika. As she did that, she fired three shots around Aiden, creating a very temporary barrier of sizzling electricity between the boy and twins. “C’mon short stuff.” She muttered, skidding to a halt beside the smaller girl. Bringing her shield back to the ready, she switched her blade back to ‘melee’ mode at the same time she pulled the trigger and discharged the last of the energy. More modern weapons had safeties to prevent the user from doing such things as they had a tendency to be both hard on the weapons and be potentially hazardous to the wielder; what it did was ‘trap’ the charge in the blade, where it would then discharge on the first object it struck…or into the user’s hand if the grip wasn’t resistant enough.	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,650	1,525	29	1,765	12	Damn it.. Aiden said as he was trying to get a clear shot on one of the twins at least! Though they kept jumping around too fast with their teleporting that he couldn't get a great shot off. He couldn't even aim at where they were going as they were smart enough to not be obvious about that. Though as he tried to land a hit, he saw Mika get flown backward by a blow. "Double Damn," Aiden said as he heard Silvi called out to him. “Aiden, on me!” Listening to her as he made his way towards her and Mika. Running as fast as he can as he switches his weapon from range mode back to sword mode. In his mind, it was better to have them like this in case they both came at him and he can block both of their attacks. While he did this, he saw Silva shot a few rounds at him. No, it was around him as a barrier was made to block any attacks the twin would have done. He would have said thanks, but he needed to focus on the fight at hand as once the barrier was down, he made his way towards them double time.	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,651	1,525	30	1,525	521	The twins relented now, the one that had disappeared from the fight now reappeared as they put their weapons away. "Enough before we start really hurting you. Clear to see some sound decision making and somewhat of an idea of how you'll fight." Said Ebony. "Enough before we start really hurting you. Clear to see some sound decision making and somewhat of an idea of how you'll fight." Said Ivory. "We'll see you in class." said Ebony. "We'll see you in class." said Ivory. First Ivory disappeared, then ebony did, leaving the students there in the street. Mika groaned. "Fuck that huts my head...." she said leaning up a bit, finally sitting up. The girl seemed to rub the back of her head. "Thankfully aura is pretty sturdy." Mika commented and got up, attempting to dust herself off without falling over.	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,652	1,525	31	216	38	Silvi let out a slightly annoyed sigh as the twins vanished. “Is anyone else already sick of that ‘double-speak’ shtick of theirs?” She asked, tapping the tip of her blade on the ground; there was a sizzle and ‘pop’ of electricity as the trapped charge dissipated. "Fuck that hurts my head....thankfully aura is pretty sturdy." Sheathing her blade and collapsing her shield, she chuckled a bit as she placed a steadying hand on the still wobbly looking Mika. “Maybe, but you did get punted pretty hard.” With a deep and calming breath, she shut down her semblance; the faint glow receding from her eyes and the world growing a bit duller in colour and fuzzier in detail to her. She always felt a bit sad when that happened, but maintaining her semblance for extended periods of time was not something she was strong enough to do…yet. Pulling out her Scroll, she looked at the time sighed again and stretched. “Well, I guess now we should get back…UNLESS SOMEBODY ELSE WANTS TO RANDOMLY ATTACK US?” She added, drawing a few chuckles from some of the locals who’d stopped to watch the display.	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,653	1,525	32	1,765	12	Aiden watched as the twins disappear once more and this time for good. Rolling his eyes a bit from how they acted at the end. Before turning back towards his fellow teammates and smiled. Listening to them talk among themselves. "And what Silva said, I'm surprised you didn't get a concussion from that hit, Mika," Aiden said as he walks up to them. "What now?" Aiden asked as Silva seem to have a reply. “Well, I guess now we should get back…UNLESS SOMEBODY ELSE WANTS TO RANDOMLY ATTACK US?” "Well..if you count old man winters over there. He looks like he could take us on." Aiden jokes as he points to an old man staring at them. He was close enough to overhear Aiden as he gave a mock fist shake at him. Aiden chuckles and waves the old man off. The old man getting a chuckle out of it as well as he continues on with his day. "But besides going back to the School..is today just a free day or do we have a class or something to go too?"	Name: Aiden Trax Race: Human Age: 17 Sex: Male Appearance: Aidan is just short of 5'5 with a slim pale body. Due to being a thief at an early age, he is more agile than most people he met in his life. Focusing on outmaneuvering his opponents than overpowering them. His hair a short dark red hair and his eyes are a blue with a hint of green within them. Aidan normal clothing is mostly a black pair of pants, worn but black sneakers with a white trim around the bottom of his shoes, a dark blue shirt with a black jacket with a hood attached to it. Aidan also wears dark blue gloves so he can limit his use of his powers. Around his waist, he has two dagger holsters. Personality: Aiden is a loner and likes to do things himself if he can. After growing up in the streets, he views teamwork shady at best. He views people are only friendly if they are after something. He never tries to get close to people after his only friend betrayed him.Though if someone could get pass his cold personality, they might have a strong friendship with Aiden. History: Before Aidan was fully born, his father left the family to find work in the big city that was near their small town. Envelopes would come by every week filled money and a letter telling how the big city was going and how he misses them both. Though after ten months of this, the letters stop and no word of the father came to the light. With no more money coming in, Aidan mother works herself to the bone to feed her child. Though when Aidan was eleven years old, his mom got horribly sick and with how poor the town was, she never got the proper medication and soon died. Aidan, now alone and having no one to turn to, turn to stealing. After two years, Aidan left the small town. The town folks used to his trickery and rarely fell for anything else. Now at age thirteen, Aidan decided to go find his father or at least found out happen to him. Hitching a ride with a traveling group, Aidan set off to find his father. Aidan spent two months looking around the large city for any clues of his father. Nothing was coming up and Aidan was barely getting by with his stealing as the security was tighter here than his poor town. Though unknowing by him, he was being watched. A week later, Aidan was captured and brought to a what seems like an abandoned warehouse. There he met his father and the rest of his father's gang. The two didn't know they were related until they told each other their name. Apollo, Aidan father's, wonder why his son was here and not with his mother. Aidan accused him of killing his mother after Apollo stop sending money to them. Apollo calms Aidan down and told him the full story. Apollo couldn't get any work around the city. No one would hire him, that was until a gang saw him struggling and offer him a job as a grunt. Soon after that, Apollo was making a good amount of money and sending it off every chance he got. After a while, Apollo was rising within the ranks of the gang and after years of devotion was given the leadership role after the last leader felt like retiring. With this info, Apollo knew the scum who was stealing his family money. Frisk, a rat Faunus, who always seem to pick on Apollo when he got the chance. He was also jealous as Apollo easily went up in the ranks while he barely made any tracks. With this, Apollo made an example of Frisk in front of the whole gang. Now reunited with his father, Aidan grew up in the thief lifestyle. Stealing what he can and doing what he wanted. Though all that changed years later. Something seems to change within Apollo after he learns of his wife's death. He always thought she hated him for never returning, but he never could face her with what he did with his life. He became cold and cruel and all of that came spilling out after a job went bad. Leaving a good few dead on both sides and with Apollo ready for war against the city. Aidan now had to choose, between being with his father side and going to war with the city or finding a less violent solution. He chose the second, and while everyone was sleeping, he tips off the police and left. Hearing on the news that Apollo's gang was brought in and their sentence was being carried out. With the deed done, Aidan wanted to give up the stealing and gang life. Hearing news of Beacon falling and a new school opening up on an island. Aidan decided to turn over a new leaf and become a hunter. Equipment: Talon and Claw In melee mode, Talon and Claw are duel short swords. While in range, they turn into duel pistols. Aidan fighting style was normally a hit and run. While he can fight, he prefers to get in, get the job done, and then leave before he even has to draw. Though if the time comes to it, Aidan is a fighter and was train by his father and the rest of Apollo's gang. Semblance: Aidan views his Semblance as a curse on the family name. It seems that the Trax of old had passed down trait of explosions, though each family member differs from each other. Aidan hands would glow when his semblance is activated. Anything he touches or punches will set off a mini explosion. If someone does not use Aura to take the brunt of his attacks, it will leave a nasty hole or chunk out of wherever he hits.
55,654	1,525	33	1,525	521	They want us back in homeroom i think... mika said, sighing and looking about. But i don't mind their double speak... bit off putting like that movie with the crazy guy and the haunted inn.... but yeah... really only been able to rely on my aura as my semblance hasn't shown up yet..." Explained Mika scratching the back of her head and looking around. "Kinda gotten good with my aura in that regard..."	Name: Mikado Saph Race: Human Age: 18 Sex: female Appearance: stands at four foot nine and on a thin frame, the girl seems lighter than possible.a set of sapphire blue eyes sat in her head, her hair in a pixie cut, a similar shade of blue with some golden streaks running through it. She has pale skin that’s soft with a barely visible muscle tone. The girl has on a set of black cargo pants on and a grey tank top with a long sapphire blue scarf that drags behind her Personality: Mika tends to be calm and rather slow to act, but with definite thought and procedure. She takes her time to observe the situation and then act on her own. She is fiercely loyal to her friends, to the point where she values their lives over her own and isn’t afraid to act on that value. She has a lot of what she needs in her pockets, but also has a small sack backpack that carries most of her medical needs in it. History: Mika isn’t originally from Ferris, she is from… well.. She doesn’t quite know. Her parents traveled a lot. But she grew up traveling and seeing the world. Her parents were old when they had her and they’ve since settled down in Vale, enjoying a simple life in the city. Mika meanwhile, despite her cool and methodological head, the girl couldn’t be pinned down. So with a little bit of combat schooling and a versatile weapon, the girl traveled. This was until Beacon was hit, so when a new school was opening on the island of Ferris, she jumped at the chance to do join the school. Laxer requirements mean that she could get in despite her ‘medical issues and requirements’ allowed her to get in despite the girl’s needs. Equipment: Standard rations and water along with a bit of camping gear in her backpack, medical needs and so forth. Great Hammer with a rotating shotgun in each face. Capable of extending into a lance, which the shotguns aim away from in order to allow recoil to push it forwards. Can split into two war hammers, each smaller in size than the full with one shotgun face per hammer, allowing fast and nimble attacks from multiple directions. Allows for different styles of dust to be loaded into it. Semblance: N/A for the time.
55,655	1,525	34	216	38	Laughing, Silvi waved to the old man. “As much as I’d like to agree with you Aiden, I’m pretty sure Mika is right.” She replied, before looking at Mika. “No semblance? Interesting…well I guess we better get going.” Waving to Uncle Ube and Aunt Levi, who’d been watching with some concern from inside, Silvi started making her way back towards the academy with the others. “So Mika,” She asked. “At some point could I get a bit of help with my aura control, my aunt says that’s where my biggest area of improvement is needed.” Looking at her two team/class mates, a small shiver ran down her spine, making her tail twitch slightly; she felt so awkward and out of place as she towered over them. “Say, Aiden…” She added, starting to fiddle with her braid as she walked. “Do you have a semblance yet? Mine is sort of a ‘hyper awareness’, lets me notice subtle things about what I’m fighting…though turns out it’s not much good against someone who can teleport…”	Name: Silvi Wulka (Pronounced ‘Vul-kah’) Race: Faunus (Wolf) Age: 18 Sex: F Appearance: She is tall at just shy of six feet, and like any aspiring hunter or huntress, she’s in quite good shape. Naturally silver hair, shaved short on the sides, hangs down to her belt in an almost wrist-thick braid; the colour of her tanned skin accentuating her oval face, while alert honey-gold eyes take in the world. Like all faunus, she has an animalistic trait to her appearance, and in Silvi’s case it’s a thick tail the same colour as the hair on her head…and else ware. Clothing-wise, it’s a pair of tail-friendly pants, some knee high boots, and a pull over shirt and a jacket. When not in a fight, Silvi keeps both her blade and shield on her left side with a vintage sword belt, while on the right, and attached to the same belt, she has a pouch for her spare vials of powdered Dust. Personality: Unsurprisingly, given her chosen path in life, Silvi is an adventurous sort who is fiercely loyal to those she is close to; that said, she’s generally pretty slow to anger…except in cases of anti-faunus bigotry, which pisses her right off. History: The Wulka family have been on Ferris, and making arms and armour, for as long as anyone can remember. As a result pretty much every family member has been involved with the outfitting and equipping of hunters and huntresses for generations; and while mostly her family has been happy to simply supply those that fight the creatures of Grimm, there are those that decide to take a more active role. Silvi’s aunt Cheris was one such person. Whenever her aunt was in town, which wasn’t often enough for Silvi’s taste, her aunt would tell her stories of the wider world of Remnant. The people she’d met, the places she’d seen and of the hunts she’d been on. Silvi was hooked from an early age, and was determined to follow in her aunt’s footsteps. When she first announced her intentions, at the tender age of 8, to become a huntress, her parents humored her and assumed that it was just a case of a little girl’s hero worship of her larger-than-life aunt and that she’d grow out of it; that was not to be. In the following decade everything Silvi did was with an eye to eventually becoming a huntress, and while her parents did worry what that might eventually mean, they never tied to stop her. When Aunt Cheris was in town, Silvi trained with her as much as she could, and the rest of the time she practiced what she’d already been taught. Initially she’d planned on joining the Atlas Academy, but after the fall of Beacon and the failure of the Atlesian Knights, she was hesitant to leave her family; but now with the Iron Forrest Academy opening, she’s ready to go once more. Equipment: Moonlight Shard As ‘dual mode’ Dust weapons go, it is pretty much an antique; made when weapon-smiths were still first experimenting with directly incorporating Dust into the function of a hunter/huntresses weapons. In ‘Melee’ mode, Moonlight Shard is a double edged, one-handed sword with a T shaped guard and a half moon pommel. It has a 30 inch blade and weighs in at roughly 3 pounds, which is a bit on the heavy side, but still manageable. Upon transitioning to ‘Ranged’ mode, the blade splits down the fuller, creating a guide channel of the blasts of energy created when the weapon is fired, and it retracts about half the blade length to allow for easier handling as a pistol; to greater facilitate that, the grip angles ‘down’ at about 70 degrees. While the firing internals have been well maintained and upgraded as is possible over the years, its age is still noticeable in the fact that it is not as efficient as more modern weapons, with each vial of Dust that is loaded into the grip only being good for 4 shots before being totally expended. Aegis Hammer When collapsed, Aegis Hammer is a metal hemispherical dome about 8 inches across, with a grip in the middle and a 5 inch tab at the bottom. Deploying, it shifts into a small round buckler about 18 inches across. The grip houses a socket to load a vial of black Dust, that when activated by the users Aura, creates a localized repulsion field across the face of the shield allowing it to block surprisingly powerful blows or deliver punishing strikes. Semblance: Accelerated Perception Her semblance lets her kick her mental processes into overdrive for a short while, allowing her the time to pick up on subtle things like how an opponent is shifting their weight, what muscles are tensing (if she can see them), or where their attention is focusing. This allows her to do such things as predict an opponent’s next more or two in a fight, spot minor ticks if someone is lying or know exactly where to put her feet if she’s moving over rough/unstable ground at high speed.
55,656	1,526	0	78	8,963	Boulders tumbled to the ground below as dust and debris filled the air while the Corrupted Gem tried to make its escape, its long tail slashing at the canyon walls that were already unstable enough before the giant lizard like beast of a monster decided to crash on through. Weak walls were easily smashed to bits as the holes fully lining the maze like canyon made the impact crack out further than usually as the holes made a chain reaction from one to the next. The multiple cave ins along the path being one of the big reasons why the duo of Gems following were having such a hard time retrieving said monstrous gem since every time they moved to attack they would have to dodge falling rocks or Gem relics left behind from so very long ago. It was in this very same place, Kindergarten, what looked like a barren waste land to most was actually the birthplace to many Gems and sad as it was, only a slim few were normal while the others were...different to say the least. Kindergarten had always been a split feeling for Aquamarine since on one hand, it harmed Earth and caused so much possible havoc to the inhabitants of this beautiful world but at the same time she would not be alive without this place. It was her beginnings and though she never asked for it, at least she wasn't alone. There were others in her same position and they had found each other, made new home in Coast City which they had choose for themselves. It felt right to defend what was theirs, protect Earth from HomeWorld while trying to keep all the mess they left behind in check. She wished there was more that could be done for these other poor Gems but for now, this was the best way. It was with that thought in mind that she focused on the task at hand as the three continued with their chase with the Lizard-ish Gem. She gripped her weapon tighter, gracefully dodging another falling boulder while trying to keep her target in sight. It quickly turned other corner, the maze of walls finally opening up to a clear area but the creature didn't continue forward but spun to attack. Its jagged jaw opened, screeching at them as the jewel studded frill on its neck popped out and it spat out sticky tar like goo at them. Aquamarine quickly jumped back, grabbing the jewel at the bottom of her harpoon and pulling out the chain as she readied herself for a full on fight with the six legged creature.	Aquamarine Gem: Gem Location: Middle of Collarbone ((As in Pic)) Weapon: Harpoon in the picture Other: Chain pulls out the staff bottom of her weapon so she can pull it back if thrown
55,657	1,526	1	1,675	1,004	Melanite was in his cave. It was the cave he was born in. The big robots had dug him up from that very spot. He was just laying back. There was no reason for him to do anything. He was just laying there, calmy looking outside. Suddenly, he felt a shock. It was far away, but he could feel it coming closer and closer. What is that? I have to investigate. He thought as he went outside his cave. In the distance, he saw huge clouds of dust rising up from another part of the kindergarten. He climbed up to the surface of the canyon, and ran towards the source. As he got closer, he heard a creature screeching from the direction he was heading. Once at the edge of canyon, close to where the source was, he saw a lizard like beast, but more importantly, he also saw three gems. They were fighting the beast. This is interesting... Melanite thought. He watched the gems, making sure they couldn't see him.	Name: Melanite Gem Location: In the back of his neck. Weapon: Black dual wield shortswords.
55,658	1,526	2	1,293	2,512	Zircon awoke for the first time in ages. The last time he was awake Zircon was being taught how to be a gem by the Homeworld gems. He learned how to talk and summon his weapon but that was about it, Zircon had no special abilities that he was aware of. Because of this, the Homeworlders thought him to be flawed and put him down. He retreated into his gem and thought of what form he wanted but he could never decide. Now hearing screams of rage from the outside, Zircon knew what he wanted to be. He chose the form of a teenager with combed back blue hair and a blue outfit to match, making sure this form was young and nimble, which could easily out-maneuver and destroy whatever creature was making that hideous noise. Zircon summoned his weapon and chased the sound. When he reached the beast, he realized that he was not the only one chasing it, but he knew the lay of the land better. Zircon took a detour and followed the estimated path of the beast. Just as he expected, the lizard creature broke through the wall underneath Zircon. The creature turned and expanded his frills, 'Wait, gems? Yes, there are definitely gems on that thing.', and he shot a gooey tar at the group of three. 'There's my opening.' Just as the gem-beast finished his assault, Zircon jumped down from above and struck down with his glaive. The attack was enough to cause to creature to real back in surprise and cause him injuries, but not enough to kill it. Zircon planted his feet on the thing's head and kicked off. Landing a bit behind the group of gems, Zircon spoke to the them, "I will help you defeat this, this, whatever it is. But try something stupid and I'll let your body lie beside it's." He turned to face the creature, preparing for any strike this thing decided to make.	Zircon Gem Location: Left Shoulder Weapon: Glaive
55,659	1,526	3	338	480	Agate chased down the corrupted gem with his mace in hand and following the other two gems with him. Agate smashed a falling boulder and jumped through the dust and landed on the rocky ground with a roll. Agate never liked fighting, it was exhausting and feels like a waste of time even though he couldn't get tired in the way most life can and he has all the time in the world to waste, but it still feels that way even if he thinks about it. Agate only fought because the others do, and he wouldn't feel right if he stood and do nothing. He pulled out a second mace from his gem as he seen the corrupted gem shoot tar at them so he smashed them into the ground to raise parts of the earth to block the the gooey tar aimed at them. Agate heard the monster screech and the sound of something landing behind them, another gem. not one of the three that entered here, and doesn't seemed to be parasitic, were they made here like them. Agate simply nodded in agreement and broke off off the top of one of the newly risen earth block and launched it at the monster barely missing it.	Agate Gem: Gem Location: Lower back Weapon: The Mace in the picture Other: Always tired and grumpy.
55,660	1,526	4	2,422	1,600	Kit sat ontop of the canyon wall and had been watching the commotion with mild interest mostly thinking back to her time on the homeworld where she trained for days on end, that was until the the rampaging beast spread the frills around its neck exposing the gems planted in it. "Interesting..." she said as she watched it spit a goo at the perusing gems before being knocked back by yet another gem and a wall seemed that seemed to come out of nowhere. 'I guess i should help too...' she thought before standing up. Jumping off the ridge Kit aimed to land on the beast back but was forced to maneuver in mid-air to dodge the block of earth that was launched by one of the previous pursuing gems. Kit landed off to the right side of the corrupted gem and drew her weapon, slashing at its legs as she ran to the area were the other gems were. She gave a nod to the others and materialized another sword in her left hand before moving into a defensive stance analyzing the beast that had finished regaining its balance from her attack though it was leaning more heavily on its left side. Kit looked at the gem with the glaive () and the one with the harpoon (), and pointed to the Beast signaling them to attack left and then pointed to herself and motioned her going right. 'Hopefully they'll listen to a random person giving orders' she thought to herself as she dashed towards the right side.	CS: Appearance: Nickname: Kit Gem: reversed Sillimanite Cat's Eye Gem Location: palm of her right hand Personality: Quite serious most of the time, emphatic, does laugh and smile occasionally if she is in the mood. Weapon: The sword in the picture Other: Likes to train... a lot so if you can't find her look around the beach for her shooting waves or doing target practice with drones. Likes eating some earth foods like apples and chocolate. doesn't talk much but will just stare at you with her eyes that resemble those of felines.
55,661	1,526	5	78	8,963	Aquamarine glanced over at the newcomer, looking to the other with a raised eyebrow as he spoke before turning her attention back on the creature before them. She readied to attack, planning on using Agate's rock launching as a away to get close while the creature might have to dodge, only to pause as yet another new Gem arrived to join them. A quick mid-air dodge of Agate's attack had her landing to the monsters right side before adding another katana to her hand and slashing the creatures legs causing it to stagger, trying to regain its balance and spitting out more sticky goo as a defense as it did so. Sadly though with a wall of earth between the monster and the Gems, caused this to do little to nothing to help the corrupted gem except for making a mess of the ground around it. She took notice that it was now shifting more of its weight on the left legs to compensate for the damage on its right ones. Aquamarine nodded to the woman as the other signaled the plan in mind before jetting forward from behind the wall, tossing her harpoon sharply and embedding it into the creatures left shoulder. The thing howled in pain, trying to snap at the object causing it so much pain before setting its sights on Aquamarine. She tightened some of the slack on her chain, making the creature pull slightly to her and it stumble a bit towards that direction. If she could keep the focus of the monster on either her or its shoulder, then the others would be free to attack the open areas. The creatures turned trying to use its tail to lash out at her but all it managed to by doing that was pull her in the same direction as its body. She used that momentum, loosing her chain and letting it fling up in the air so that she could land on the beasts head with ease. It tossed its head to try knock her off but she stayed balance, trying to loop her chain around its mouth.	Aquamarine Gem: Gem Location: Middle of Collarbone ((As in Pic)) Weapon: Harpoon in the picture Other: Chain pulls out the staff bottom of her weapon so she can pull it back if thrown
55,662	1,526	6	1,293	2,512	Zircon attempted to get close to the creature but its thrashing kept him from doing so. "Hey, if you're going to keep playing around up there, at least hit this damn things gem or gems." Once the beast's body stilled, Zircon used the goop to his advantage and slid under it to slice open its gut. Coming up on the other end, he ran up the thing's back and rammed his glaive through the uppermost gem on the beast's drill.	Zircon Gem Location: Left Shoulder Weapon: Glaive
55,663	1,526	7	1,675	1,004	-post moved to OOC-	Name: Melanite Gem Location: In the back of his neck. Weapon: Black dual wield shortswords.
55,664	1,527	0	1,054	1,812	25 years ago, an unlikely band of heroes defeated the evil that plagued Waeldeshore. Sure, everyone may have their own version of the tale, but in the end the group was victorious. A monstrous dragon was slain, demons were pushed back into the abyss, and the objective of their mission, to obtain an item, one that was much more than it seemed, had been successful. The key was now in the hands of their sage, Genevieve; a mysterious woman with such knowledge and power, handed down to her by the elders of her order for one purpose - to snuff out the evil in this world. The order Genevieve had once belonged to, was dedicated to preserving the balance, and keeping the demons of the abyss at bay. Unfortunately, treachery and deceit were more than just side notes in a story book; ultimately, they were what caused the downfall of the order. Remnants of their true purpose had gone into hiding, until one fateful day, the gods decided their knowledge and power was needed once more. Genevieve had skulked around town for a few days until she found their group, informing them of the details of their situation. She fought with them, aided their battle as best as she could. She had done her duties and eradicated the evil that attempted to overtake Waeldeshore. Their mission had been a success, and those who had lingered within the city walls beyond that first night, had learned of many other mysteries that plagued their realm. Many other powers came into play over the years. The Jarjeatys Magi are an order of professional mages, all talented in magic at varying levels and species, but all having the same degree of discipline, mental control and a good degree of knowledge. Their sphere of influence extends wide, although they aren't known for using it often. Individual members are rare to come by, but many courts in the world have at least one member serving as some sort of advisor. They are also known to take refugees in, and maintain a library containing various items of value. Their power and influence has grown over the years, yet there is much about them that remains a mystery, unless of course you know where to look. Present Day A woman clad head to toe in fine silks and jewels, sat at her throne, bejeweled the same way as her gown. Her brow wrinkled slightly, her muscles tensed, her very presence echoed with impatience and frustration. She drummed her long and painted fingernails on the arm rest. She hadn’t seemed to have aged very much over the past twenty five years. For any that had known her previously, they may stare at her with wide eyed disbelief, to look upon her; they would see the same face that had stared at them 25 years prior. The new comers may think their host is but a young lass, barely into her twenties. Suddenly there was a knock at the door. "Enter" the sage bellowed. A small and frail man entered, the sight of him suggested quite an opposing lifestyle than what was displayed in the throne room. He wasn't horribly well off, but his clothes were torn and worn. The dirt under his fingernails suggested he was a laborer of sorts. His voice was meek, and he trembled as he grew closer to the woman. "Pardon the intrusion m'lady, ever-one got yer lettas. Sum o dem a here in town alrede." He began to stumble over his words and cleared his throat in frustration. "I told em' ta come here." He nodded to her, keeping in his place until she gave any other instructions. “It is about time”, she grumbled. “I had sent those letters out over a week ago, I shouldn’t have had to wait this long. So where are they?!” “I ain’t sure m’lady.” He winced. Her temper had only gotten worse with time. .. Time … It was something she seemed to have a lot of, but it was never enough. Nothing was ever enough. “Bu-but I’m sure they be here soon.” He nodded once more. She looked him over briefly. The stammering annoyed her, but she knew he was only doing it out of fear. Good, she thought. He should be afraid of me. ”Calm Yourself” it was but a whisper, a faint echo of a voice that only she could hear. Part of her knew she was being harsh with the poor man, sometimes she just could not help herself. She sighed softly, leaning her head into the palm of her hand, her elbow propped up on the arm of her throne. "Thank you, that will be all." She muttered to the messenger. Her demeanor had changed somewhat, but she couldn't bring herself to apologize. It hadn't been in her nature to do so in a long while. Nevertheless, the group she had assembled would be gathered in her abode soon enough. And upon their success, she would regain the item that was stolen from her. ...and all that is rightly mine, she concluded her own thought with words just above a whisper. Now all that was left to do was to sit and wait.	Name: Isabeau Falkenrath Species: Human/Witchling Age: 52 Description: Having let her hair grow out, her dark auburn locks are typically tied up in a braided bun, several pieces, refusing to be bound, frame her face, complementing an olive skin tone. A grey strand here and there, depicting age. Her eyes are something to behold; light green surrounded by a thin ring of gold. Freckles sprinkle lightly over a smooth face, nearly void of any wrinkles representative of a woman coming into her fifties. She stands at about 5’7” tall, a petite upper body sitting upon wider hips and thick thighs. Not overly muscular though her body is tone. When exposed, displayed on her back are a number of scars, some seeming a bit more prominent. A rather fresh one sits just above her right brow. She may have aged some from the last time any had seen her, but she certainly doesn't look as old as she is. Personality: She is typically cold and brash, on the outside anyway. Her overconfident ways have often gotten her in a pinch, but not one that she couldn't ever find her way out of. She never takes the easy way out and has a soft spot for those who have been bullied. Having grown used to the luxuries coin can buy, she would prefer a more lavish lifestyle. Shiny things may distract her from time to time, but it is never to say she had an easy life. Clothing: She typically wears light fabrics, leathers and cloths of darker shades. A large cowl normally covers most of her features. Dark brown leather boots extend up just past her knees, straps and buckles secure padding where would be needed. Plain cloth pants are held up by a thick black belt, lined with a few pouches and oddities. Weapons: Through her training, she has become a jack of all trades. Though her favorite weapon is the battle axe strapped to her back. She has a dagger hidden within her boots and one saddled to her belt at her right hip. The dagger hanging from her belt is a curved blade, with a ruby embedded within the hilt. Skills and Abilities: Part of the reason why the witches wanted to do away with her because she did not have the affinity for magic as they did. However her time in the Assassin’s Keep allowed her to develop other skills and techniques: Shadow Prison: Isabeau is able to shadow step to her foe for an attack. During this attack, her foe’s movement speed is drastically reduced temporarily Wild Blow: Isabeau is able to manipulate the shadows around her weapons, increasing the damage done by her attacks. The attack is usually used when attempting to sunder a shield. Wildfire: Despite not having the understanding of the weave, as the witches did, Isabeau was bestowed with a gift from her mother. The gift of Wildfire. This gift takes an enormous amount of energy to control and wield. When called upon, the shadows immediately surrounding her will ignite and deadly flames will coat her axe, adding fire damage to her attacks. This generally leaves Isabeau quite drained afterwards In her time away from civilization, she has learned to tap into the shadow realm. The more time she spent in the dark reflection of home, the less stable her footing became in each world. She would shift back and forth, sometimes without even meaning to. Magic:N/A -see skills above Backstory: Rumors of long ago, tell a tale of a witch who fell in love with a prince from a far away land. The prince had journeyed far in search of a magical herb that was said to cure a sickness plaguing his kingdom. He came upon a young woman living deep within the woods. Beautiful in every way imaginable, the Prince became enthralled with the young woman and insisted that she leave the woods and return with him to his castle. As tempting as the offer was, she could not leave her home. For she was a witch, just as her mother before her, and so on down the line. Their family and gifts had been banished from the kingdom long ago, and since, they had taken refuge in the forest, tending to the wilds and those who dwell within its sanctuary. Disturbed by the story, the prince vowed that he would speak with his father to lift their exile if she would return with him as his bride. Gleefully, the young woman accepted. And with the prince as her guest, she spent her last few days in the woods saying her goodbyes and making arrangements for after she left. Those last few nights blanketed by the stars, we're magical for her and the prince. Though as the story goes, it was the last shred of happiness for the young couple. Grandmother Amari, the high witch of their clan, had high expectations for the young witch. Plans, that did not include the Prince, that would've been especially ruined if the prince took her away to become a princess in the castle. Though a silver lining appeared that would help Amari's plans along. And so the high witch gathered her kin, and her plot for war went into action. On the eve before the two lovers were to leave for the castle, Amari had one of the youngest within their clan travel to the cottage where the two were staying. She silently crept in, cloaked within the shadows and darkness of the night. With one clean swipe of her blade, she sliced his throat open, and without anyone noticing, made her way back out. He bled out onto the bed next to his beloved, who never stirred, and never realized his death until the next morning. It wasn’t until many months later did they all realize the young witch was with child and when the news had traveled to the High Witch, it was ordered to discard the baby once it was born. The young witch with fire red hair and green eyes encircled with a gold ring would never know her daughter. Isabeau continued to meet only betrayal and despair as she grew older unfortunately. Bred into a world of death and darkness, she was raised within the Keep of the Assassin’s Guild and was honed into the land’s deadliest weapon. She was taught to cast all emotions aside, especially that of love. They told her that love made people weak, love would hold her back, get her killed. And just as they had warned her, love had been her undoing and led her to flee. ~~*~~ Since her departure of Waeldeshore, much has happened ((All to be revealed in rp)). Her reasons for returning are her own, but she has vowed to make things right.
55,665	1,527	1	2,426	2,292	Nine Years Ago Myths Among the Wild Men By Sakaala, quoted from "Myths Among the Wild Men", Chapter IV "Rangers" "He came to me in these hours of death, not as a prophet, not as a madman, but a speaker of a dying world. This world in which we all hold so dear, he more than many cherished it, but more deeply so its rawest of aspects; he drank from the same cup that brought up my blood unfathom time ago - the same that poured itself into the life of all things truly free, truly pure. Upon me he bestowed a returned breath of life to my breast. Another broader purpose, one beyond this lonesome self pursuit which brought little but distraction. I, as he and others alike, were sworn to something greater; something I had forgotten in my lingering darkness. My hours of cold." "He reminded me, in these twilight moments of lucidity, that none of our tasks are done. They are part of the cycle eternal, that even with his passing, just as Hers many years ago, that the hunt must continue. Simply because we are reclaimed, because we are... undone, we must still persevere in our preservation of what we were in life. I held him as he shook, just as I had others; unable to return life to that which was truly gone. But his words, just as before, did not leave me; urging this journey on." "I contemplated fate, not faith - the latter not in question." "I am ranger in the tongues of men and The Huntress in the words of many more unspoken. I am a sworn enemy of evil and the very weapon of an entire world." Present Time It was not that the one remaining eye's sight, in all its golden glory, had betrayed its master, but that it pried ink from parchment with such sheer force that it seemed uncertain anymore of the message's true, underlying purpose. It was as though it had been intended for another, but the explicit personal summons, in the way of mere man so bold as to confront a monster suggested otherwise; from the time the approach began it was clear he was almost compelled to do such a thing, mayhap in part against his will. A troubling truth whatever it was, but it begged only further as to why in any such case - what possible effect would be gained through such a trap, if it were one? If they had such means to make a demand upon her of any, and wished to do her harm, why not simply do so? Even in her growing age she was no easy thing to find, certainly not now. It was not that she was elusive by intent so much as by virtue. The world was vast, oft ferocious and unforgiving, yet one messenger found his way among the most obscure paths to her. Had her temper not been so steady, such an unwelcome surprise would have been more swiftly met at blade's end, but fate seemed to intervene once more. It was not that she would have made threat on his life, so much as having been far, far less willing to hear out any reason for being so hunted and discovered. Returning to the words, she had indeed turned the tables of the game being played, at least as much as she could. Her arrival, the initial at least, was more observation than anything, but rewarding all the same. She dared not approach the way she was instructed - a path throughout a town to a place in which sat largely by itself upon a secluded, cleared way not much further beyond. Its construction spoke of older wealth, older power... mortal works, being dense stone and wood. Something built by human hands, or at least guided by them. This was no surprise, at least that wealth and power had found her, for one reason or another, but what did intrigue the mind and the eyes-within-the-night was that there was no familiarity at all to what she beheld. Low as she knelt, both bright and deadened eye taking in what she could see from her concealment and cover, her breath deepened in contemplation. "I take no joy in doing what has been asked." She spoke, grasping the rolled leather legging of her left thigh, pushing herself to standing, "But either they will be a worthy host..." "... or all of them have had the misfortune of being set to kill me." The voice continued, knowing that her incursion into town, even its outskirts on a journey to this manor, came with implications. Namely that the town was unwittingly to be used to either weaken or murder her. Mortals were not fond of the ones touched by the world's blood, even less fond of those drawn up from it. In times prior she journeyed with a cadre of armed men, wielding bow, blade and mystic ill omen or power; mercenaries, often the most cunning or intelligent to rather recruit the "monster" to their ranks than be so fool as to attempt to kill it. Then it humored her wants, to have this bond among sanctioned marauders, but now it would have been a swift way to find herself from one side to this unusual summons... no less with able hands in tow should the strange parchment truly be an elaborate effort to eliminate her. Drawing up the worn cloak and hood, or really what remained of it, she confined herself to approach by darkness to darkness. Time consuming as it was, she avoided the few who remained out on a eve such as this; at most all they saw was a strange hooded silhouette in the darkness that departed as quickly as it left. The hustle of this effort skirted the town and set her upon the path to approach this strange, regal place, which in no time she neared its cast open gates. Someone was expected, this much she knew. One did not leave open their gates, devoid of guardsmen, if they did not expect specific company - mage or otherwise alike. Yet this did little to comfort the aging beast, whose great feet left marks upon the damp earth here where it could not be disturbed by natural disguises and illusions. Out of her element, but far from helpless, she wondered what more was in store for her...	Name: "Sakaala" Referring to herself as "Sakaala", it is unknown what her name truly is, but there exists reason enough to believe that her assumed name has apparent symbolism, most likely amongst those familiar to her fallen people who placed great value in the meaning of all things, most importantly those belonging to themselves. For those in the know of obscure and arcane cultural history, she is "the finality" or more simply "the last (whole) one", a sobering title that is not only accurate but most disheartening. Species: Monstrous Humanoid The origin and types of monstrous humanoids vary greatly, with some being the product of twisted arcane magic unchecked to others being the work of some divine force. They range from the more "common", as with the minotaur, centaur or harpy, to the more exotic and rare. Sakaala, as well as those who once made up her people, bordered the spectrum of the latter more than the former, being mostly obscure but recorded comparatively well. However, the question of what created a small number of lionmen abroad the realm is unknown, but their kind existed like many monsters before the Age of Mortals, near certainly having an origin many ancient eras past. Only in recent times has this rare bloodline, as with many other unusual beings of similar sorts, all but disappeared after prolonged hunting of "aberrants" by paranoid mortals in the wake of the near successful invasion of the plane. Age: 47 Although longer lived than most mortal men by virtue of unnatural blood, Sakaala is no youth and certainly no longer in her prime. In spite of these things, as with her natural relatives, she is a remarkable example of longevity which has been extended yet by dabbling in arcane arts and an incredible will to survive. Description: Sakaala is distinct in just race alone; owing both to her incredible scale among mortal men, at the height of horse of twenty-two hands, and her overtly leonine features of which are only vaguely humanoid in nature and otherwise quite savage. Her dense sand tone hide is badly scarred about the right of her body, bearing some wounds of which were so visibly savage that even magical aid has not wholly righted them, but the most notable being the blindness of her right eye. While no less lame in the right arm than blind in the right eye, almost entirely numb, she retains its use by sense of self alone. Ambidextrous in response because of this weakness, her tendency to shore up vulnerabilities is remarkable. She distinctly conceals the worst of her injuries beneath her partial robe, and outside of the obvious blindness of an eye, her body is in remarkable condition for a female of her growing age, violent history and having bore offspring in previous. While not overtly robust, her musculature is still visible and her strength measurably stronger than many men. Instead of these qualities, she is more remembered for the gold that is the color of her eyes, barring the blindness; they are akin to portals of lingering sadness and fierce resolve - the same lament of failure and animal cry of defiance entwined. Minimalist in her armoring, Sakaala bears a well worn mithral breastplate upon her chest and a matching pauldron and bracer to her weaker arm, ending it in a fingerless leather glove. Beneath her limited armor she dresses in the remnants of an aged arcanist's robe that ends just beneath her sizable bust, rolling it at the shoulder upon the right limb and let loose upon her strong left arm; the formerly black material having faded to a dusted grey. It, like the rest of her regalia, is undoubtedly salvaged from a fallen friend or a fallen foe, becoming both a prize and a memento. Upon her waist fits a wide tribal belt and battered sash keeping rolled, pressed leather leggings that are accompanied by a pair of slender, exotic daggers worn at the thigh about her lower half. While the belt she adorns herself was once common to her kind, they exist now only as prizes in the hands of grim collectors. Worn about her neck hangs a morbid reminder of her enemy's hatred for her people - a collection of fangs and claws - which was most certainly pried from the cold, dead grasp of one of her felled foes of which is accompanied by another, not nearly minor trinket; a decorative necklace of polished black stone upon a humble leather loop adorned with smaller decorative pieces. Not keen to speak of the second of the two pieces of finery, she often counts the poached points of her other necklace. Bearing a true hand-and-a-half elven blade of indeterminate age as her favored weapon, it is uncertain if it were a tool of conflict initially her own or one which she liberated from her would-be killers. Forged of the rare ore mithral, it is polished to an exquisite silvery shine instead of dulled with age about the fine of the blade. Despite its characteristic remarkable lightness and finesse, the weapon is truly designed to be wielded with both hands by its bearer, yet Sakaala's great scale and greater strength allows her to wield it with deadly ease in a single pawed hand. Unnervingly, so much as drawing the blade - let alone swinging it - sets it to ring faintly in a short lived but soft harmonic hum, but more than anything the bite of the sword itself leaves such keen blows that they are almost unsettling to look upon. Personality and Alignment: Neutral Good The benevolent matriarch, her inherently motherly animal nature follows her strongly with the incredible violence, that both magical and mundane, which she is capable of should she or those she considers her own be threatened. Kindly even toward those wary of her, her wrath is not easily provoked, but no threats made against her or those she views as companions are considered just idle. Perhaps unconsciously she tends to the wounded, acquires fresh provisions, and stays awake during watches all to ensure the continued survival of her adoptive company. Aging as she is, she has embraced the role of a vizier and sage, providing great insight and wisdom to those who inquire upon her. No friend of evil and abiding by her own sense of morality, she is best described as an intellectual and spiritual benefactor. Skills/Abilities: Lore Expertise Having lived such a varied and long life has graced Sakaala with many skills, the most notable is her vast knowledge upon matters ranging from historical events to distant locales, from to forces of nature to arcane mysteries. Self taught, her incredible recollection is imperfect and incomplete, but more often than not her acquired lore is relevant. She specializes in the intellectual categories of arcana, history, nature and locales with little greater knowledge on other matters. Martial Adept There are those who achieve martial proficiency through strength of arms alone and then there are those who acquire combat superiority by raw skill. Sakaala's inhuman strength and agility lend well to life lived by the sword, but it is her intuition, intelligence and force of personality that truly make her a deadly foe as she not only understands the principals of conflict, but actively anticipates them with preternatural skill. This so called "blade-magic" is a blend of martial arts, mysticism, and swordplay - at times engaging in impossible feats martial through magic and at others achieved by intense discipline and practice alone. Sakaala makes up for her disabilities by simply being more skillful and magically inclined than most her foes. Bolstering Presence While Sakaala is present, her mere warrior nature supernaturally inspires mental resolve and great courage in the face of fear among herself and allies. Effects that attack the mind are weakened, and attempts to intimidate or cause fear are dampened heavily as the body, emotion, mind, and spirit are made hardened against such effects. Perfect Mind Honed by intense exposure to offensive magic, Sakaala's force of personality provides her immense leverage against mind-affecting effects. The bane of charms, enchantments and illusions, she often rapidly comes to her senses, especially in the heat of battle or when her companions are threatened. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Steel Wind This maneuver involves a sudden turn of the blade that lands an otherwise singular blow against one target to also connect with another. A difficult attack to employ in the hands of the untrained, its uncanny speed and incredible finesse work are further augmented by Sakaala's ambidexterity, making her a deadly foe against numbers of enemies, especially the lightly armored. This attack is effectively a single attack against multiple targets. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Wall of Blades The agility Sakaala can display for brief periods of time even without her magic is unsettling. With lightning speed, Sakaala can counter a single melee or ranged attack, blocking or deflecting the worst of the blow with her own weapon, even in the worst of scenarios with precognition-like intuition. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Seasoned Ranger A born predator, Sakaala was one of many huntresses of her people, no less acting as a wildlands warrior in times of danger when threatened. Having survived alone from these skills for years, she is an able huntress and would be considered expert in the wilderness, capable of even eluding enemies and striking unexpectedly in natural environments. Of her practical skills, she is a trained gatherer of flora and fauna thus able to provide for herself and others in the ways of naturally provided rations, traditional medicine, pure water and various feats of outdoorsmanship. She is difficult to track when being followed and hardly inhibited by natural terrain. Magic: Channel Spell The ability to cast magical spells and effects is no small wonder even in a world where magic is possibility, but the power to do so while accompanying martial maneuvers is another great feat altogether. Able to channel some of her spells through her natural and weapon attacks, she unleashes devastating blows that inflict a variety of other effects on the victims of the attack. Working in conjunction with her supernatural martial arts, she can perform these abilities often in unexpected ways such as casting a single spell and striking multiple foes with its effects at once. She is not only limited to a small selection of spells to channel a day, but cannot do so extensively without becoming exhausted mentally. Bladeweave A swing of the sword moves with awesome magical grace and almost rhythmic perfection while giving off glints of faint light. Any creature unfortunate enough to be struck might find itself briefly dazed for a moment of hesitation by the fascinating magical swordsmanship exhibited. Creatures that have already been dazed are just as likely to be dazed again, but those resistant to illusions are not likely to be so awed. Combustion A corona of roiling heated air sheathes the blade, leaving waves of intense heat in the wake. A creature or object struck by the weapon discharges the spell, causing the target to instantly ignite in a personal inferno and setting them intensely ablaze for a moment before the magical flames vanish. If hasty or fortunate, a creature can extinguish the lingering non-magical flames left behind - if not careful, they continue to burn with mundane fire until its fuel is exhausted or its air is cut off. Enfeeblement An ominous dark green glimmer envelops the weapon's blade and is discharged upon successful strike, magically debilitating the muscular strength of the victim. Each instance of crippled physical might is additive, and creatures depleted of their strength are temporarily paralyzed and rendered helpless. Their lost strength returns minutes later after the last blow endured. Fatiguing A faint dullness and aura of immaterial grey shrouds the weapon's blade and is discharged upon a successful blow. The so affected creature is overcome by fatigue, slowing its physical strength and reflexes greatly, but most notably leaving it tired and unable to run. The weight of their debilitation is brief, lasting only a few prolonged moments and once the effects wear off, they are no worse for wear because of it. Shocking A scatter of sparks and silent cyan-white lightning shudder about the sword's length, pulling it more accurately toward metal targets. Upon striking, the magical effect discharges with a dull localized clap of thunder and the target is struck by a mighty burst of lightning from the weapon, jarring them. This channeled effect is much more likely to land upon metal targets than those not bearing much metal. True Strike A bearer of a weapon to be imbued takes a brief moment to gain precognative insight into their next attack, greatly increasing its likelihood to land, yet this strength comes at the cost of denying the caster action for a moment. Now enchanted for its next blow, it ignores both magical and practical forms of concealment and seems to find the weakest point in the target's defenses. Once it strikes, the benefit ends and the aura of perfect clarity is gone. Wraithstrike A phantasmal air surrounds the now shimmering blade which is sheathed in ghostly wisps. For a brief moment, it strikes with deathly accuracy, penetrating conventional defenses such as armor or even benefits such as magical deflectiveness, needing only to merely touch the victim to deal its damage in full as though it were a spirit. Upon striking, the effect ends and the weapon returns to its normal qualities. Natural Sorceress As a creature born of magic, the very essence of latent power lies within Sakaala and those that were like her, infused with every ounce of their person. It is from this obscure pool that she draws upon, evoking sorcerous power on whim, but having deeply specialized in doing so; her repertoire of magical spells not vast or complex, but instead practical and martial. She blends the martial arts and swordplay with her magic instead of casting traditional spells by and far, although she can indeed manifest some purely magic effects. Traditionally, few monstrous humanoids are able mages - instead relying upon their natural superiority to combat magical and mundane threats through sheer force and intuition. Sakaala, in spite of these things and the taboos of her now lost society, has taken up arcane power to compensate for her debilitation and growing age. It is known that many mortals are driven mad by arcane power with time, but many monsters seem no worse for wear. As with all sorcerers, Sakaala's magic depletes throughout the day when she expends it. Recovering her inherent energy when she rests for a prolonged time, she relies upon measured application of mystic force so not to expend all of her magic in a short time although she is capable of doing so. Least (0th) Arcane Mark, Amanuensis, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Read Magic, Touch of Fatigue Lesser (1st) Nerveskitter, Shocking Grasp, Truestrike, Ray of Enfeeblement Common (2nd) Combust, Bladeweave, Wraithstrike Great (3rd) Haste, Dispel Magic Arcane Mark A visible or invisible permanent mark of magical enchantment is placed upon the target without causing harm. If placed upon a creature, it fades with time over a month. When invisible, it requires a creature that can see invisibility to notice the mark. Otherwise only an effect that detects magic renders the mark visible, but one must be able to read magic as well to understand its meaning, if it even has one. Amanuensis An invisible force, when provided with text to read and parchment, begins transcribing the mundane words of another work. The force continues to generate the copied text word for word on to the initially blank parchment, skipping any illustrations and magical enchantments it encounters in its work, leaving their locations empty. While it does not translate the writings, should they be in a language not understood, it does continue to copy them until its duration ends or it pauses, awaiting more parchment. Detect Magic The viewer can visually detect magical effects within their line of sight, out to a short distance as glowing radiation. If they wish to concentrate they may separate different auras and determine their strength, and with further concentration attempt to determine the specific spell effect that is active. Powerful magical effects and creatures leave lingering auras, and appear more distinctly upon focus. Dispel Magic A powerful, brief burst of nullifying magic affects a creature or object, or dispels an area instantly of any temporary magical effects and interrupts ongoing ones or those being cast. The dispelling affect always targets the most powerful spells first, then attempts to remove the progressively weaker ones of its target. Against a creature casting a spell, this effect causes the spell to immediately fail to cast. Haste The caster and nearby allies blur with sudden, lightning fast alacrity, moving with intense speed and reflexes. Their attacks become so rapid they are a near blur of motion, and their movement causes them to shimmer with enchanted speed. Striking more accurately and evading more rapidly, this effect lasts only a few intense prolonged moments. Mage Hand An invisible force may manipulate objects through concentration as though it were an extension of its master. Although capable of only lifting light objects, it has the full functionality of a phantasmal hand free of a body, giving it great range of motion. A form of very limited magical psychokinesis, its range is short and it disperses to nothing if it travels far. Message A distant conversation may be held at a whispered tone, sent to a small number of selected creatures. Although each may reply individually, the visibly spoken words are sent to all affected individuals. It bypasses line of sight, limited out to several hundred feet, but is stopped by magical silence, dense metal or stone, or several feet of earth or wood. The words spoken are identical to what is being said and do not transcend language barriers. Nerveskitter An icy rush races through the blood of the affected individual, spurring them to act or react to danger well before they regularly would be capable. Immediate in effect and its casting, it gives the the creature great precognition for but a moment, allowing them to act with greater initiative. Although limited in range out to a short distance, it heightens the senses and reactions greatly for a crucial few seconds. Prestidigitation This effect can generate a wide array of more minor effects, of which are humble yet practical uses of magic. They range from cleaning to dirtying an object, creating minor levitation in small objects, chill or warm slightly, ignite or extinguish mundane flames, create small fragile objects or play ethereal musical notes, and so forth. While it cannot duplicate stronger spells, it perhaps can evoke the illusion of greater magic at play. Read Magic Enabling a reader to explicitly read magically concealed text, it can be used to translate runes, scrolls, symbols and other forms of enchanted text. It does not invoke any latent magical effect of the writing, but it allows the reader to no longer require the ability to read that enchanted text through magic, giving them inherent understanding of it. Backstory: Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary By "The Mage", quoted from "Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary", Chapter VI "On the Subject of Sakaala" "Hunter, warrior, arcanist - over the span of a lifetime one has many varied roles that they might confront, but few ever live them so fully as to explore them in their entirety. She however, has. Undeniably left with the signs of terrible wounds past, most notably the blindness of her right eye and blatant lameness of the right arm, she has endured trials no one, be them man or beast, should be forced to confront alone. Born an exceptional huntress but appointed a warrior, she served loyally on behalf of her scarce peoples, keeping grim threats beyond, those we do not suffer, at bay. Although she, as with select others among her lot, served admirably on behalf man, not all men were so approving. It was in this she was forced to fight to the last beside those who had become her sisters on an ever losing front, but for all of her skill even she too was felled. She too has felt the bite of defeat... all the more memorable than that of victory. She does not speak to us about what became of her children, but when you look upon her eyes you see that same hurt of someone with nothing left to her in this world. It is for these reasons she turned to things most men believe left better unknown - the arcane. For one reason or another, perhaps because she is not of mortal stock, she has acquired the capacity to wield this mystic thing as any other weapon. She has made her body, and even her blade, its conduit. It is all almost a direct extension of herself, the way in which she flows like graceful death both natural and magical; the manner in which she ably adapts her styles, be them as subtle as her favored hand to the placement of her feet, even in her age. I wonder if she is truly satisfied now, watching over us like our matriarch - some relic of a dead people - blessing us with kindness we cannot possibly repay. After all, what could we offer her? We are but mere men; arrogant, brash, foolish and young. What really drives her to aid us in the heat of conflict or tend to our wounds thereafter? A motherhood she still lives vicariously? Whatever the reason, she has more than earned my faith in her; my admiration for her."
55,666	1,527	2	2,782	1,198	Ajax was not, by any stretch of the imagination, a scaredy-cat and so he strolled around town with the confident, easy saunter of one that knew himself indestructible, doing absolutely nothing to hide his incredibly conspicuous presence. In fact, he was chewing on a drumstick and occasionally taking sips off a wineskin he had purchased with what little currency he had in a local dive of ill-repute. Some might call it overconfidence, but he had grown comfortable around the dangers of the world by clashing with them from an early age. Armed with nothing, he had become a champion fighter, a well known adventurer in many lands and had survived much in the process. Ajax had, in fact, been one of the first to arrive in town and perhaps the first that the servant, a small man with the bearing of a mistreated pet, had directed towards the isolated house that spoke to him of riches and some measure of power. Not that he cared much about that. He was set in his ways after his harsh life, and his ways said that after a boring journey for a cryptic summons, from someone he knew nothing about to boot, he had to eat and drink. Then it would be business time, unless more merriment was to be found from the host. They could wait, and chances were they needed him more than he needed them. He wondered not how they had found him for he was a very easy man to find, no matter where he went. Tall, muscular, obviously foreign, lover of revelry and incredibly dangerous when upset, it was a matter of following the rumors and the trail of havok that typically accompanied him. Whether he consciously tried to call attention to himself or not, few could say. But he was quite certain that anyone that needed anything dead and had heard of him would seek him out, as had happened plenty before. And if anyone sought to set a trap for him in a strange continent he had only recently arrived to, well, it was their problem. And so, taking his time and taking stock of the village, the kind of large and fairly miserable settlement with little to see that he had spent more days than he cared to count in, he made his way to the house following the given path, soon crossing the open outer gate. Whether he saw the hooded figure trying to remain as unnoticed as possible in a place with few spots to hide none could say and he simply wouldn't care. Few had his grit, after all, he was used to it. Thinking nothing of it, he took the door knocker in hand and loudly banged on the wooden inner gate. A couple times too many and a bit too hard.	Name: Ajax Diagorides Species: Human Age: 40 Description: Ajax is an olive skinned and tanned man who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs around 300 pounds. A thick, muscle bound figure with powerful, sinewy arms and robust legs which end in burly hands and feet and a log-like neck that holds up a head as large as the rest of his body, with a prominent jaw and chin as well as dark brown eyes, short, curly black hair and a thick but not overly long beard, he bears a more than passing resemblance to the real-life Boxer of Quirinal, except far more muscular, with a build closely resembling that of a powerlifter or strongman competitor. Thanks to his less than healthy lifestyle, Ajax is a mess to look at. He is scarred from head to toe, his eyes are sunken, his nose squashed and slightly deviated, he has cauliflower ears and his hands, forearms, elbows, knees, shins and feet are covered in extremely thick and rough calluses, giving them a leathery, bumpy look. Ajax's clothing is a loose white robe called a doric chiton, that he keeps strapped to his left shoulder with a pin and extends past his waist, ending just above the knees. Ajax also wears brown leather, hobnailed, sandal-like boots called caligae. Personality: Ajax is a fairly merry man, fond of living a life full of excitement and action and can be fairly easy to get along with as he is giving, loyal, honest and straightforward, seeing greed, deceit and treachery as marks of weakness. Conversely, he's also kind of nuts. He says what's on his mind no matter the situation, is knowingly offensive to others and enjoys fighting to a mind-boggling degree. Smashing things to bits seems to be his main solution to any problem, too, and he has no qualms in instigating fights or escalating them when a couple words would be enough to defuse a potentially dangerous situation. Ajax has a great distaste for magic and religion and will act rather condescending to anyone who relies overmuch on these, even worse if they try to lord these things over him or otherwise try to make him see their way. It’s not enough to bring him to violence but he sees over-reliance on magic or the intervention of higher forces as a queer path in life. Why credit the gods with your achievements, why rely on some mystic force you can barely comprehend when you could achieve this on the strength of your back? He feels much the same towards those who take their status as nobles as somehow making them intrinsically superior to others. Ajax has a fairly complex world view based on strength, self-reliance and personal growth. He feels the strong come to rule the weak, but that strength isn't limited to physical strength or martial power and that the weak should, in turn, grow strong and strive for greater things in life, never letting themselves be crushed underfoot. He relishes the freedom necessary for such a growth and will readily help others to attain it, just as long as they actually put the effort to grow themselves, though his efforts can come across as him just being rather mean. He is especially harsh towards those who could stand for themselves but don't and expect others to do it for them, believing that over-reliance on others is another path to subjugation. Skills/Abilities: -Herculean: Ajax seems to have been gifted with superhuman physicality. Though his agility and manual dexterity aren’t much to speak of, he is freakishly strong and damn near tireless. His entire body is tremendously difficult to damage and eradicates poisons, toxins and disease with absurd ease. What makes this unique is that Ajax wasn't simply born powerful, but rather that his body adapted to extremely harsh circumstances much faster and better than anyone else. It's something everyone can do. Both muscle and bone adapt to the stresses they're placed under with time, you can exercise specifically to increase your lung capacity, you can get used to extremes of temperature if you live with them long enough, but the thing about Ajax is that his gift allows him to defy normal human limits. Of course, this gift requires a high degree of dedication to constantly test and push his own limits. If he had lived a quiet life, his gift would've gone by unnoticed. His gift also allows him to pit his body against things that should be unaffected by mere brute force, since his body has been cultivated in such an unnatural way. He can pit his might directly against magic such as hold spells and the like, though this doesn't make him immune to magic as a whole, and is resilient towards mind-altering effects from a mixture of sheer willpower and having experienced them previously in his travels. This also extends to attempts to invade his psyche, which meet with as heavy a resistance as if Ajax was fighting the person directly. -Pankration: Ajax is a skilled unarmed fighter, having trained to fight most of his life and having survived a number of ordeals through fighting skill alone. His fighting style is known in his homeland as Pankration, loosely translated as "all of might", and was originally a blend of boxing and wrestling with no rules beyond no biting or eye-gouging before more and more skills were added to its repertoire. Ajax is a particularly skilled grappler, adept at using his strength and size to his advantage, but knows how to supplement it with effective striking and has a proper grasp of the fundamentals of fighting beyond sheer strength. Backstory: Ajax descends from a long line of athletes, from the faraway land of Erimai. His father, Diagoras, was an accomplished wrestler trained by his father as was tradition within the family and celebrated in his homeland for his many victories in legitimate sporting events. Diagoras, in turn, upheld the custom and trained Ajax from an early age, and the young man soon grew into a grappler of considerable skill himself. However before Ajax could make his debut in an official event, Diagoras was murdered, the killer managing to evade the law. With the aid of family friends, many of which held connections with the fighting underworld, Ajax eventually discovered that his father's death was orchestrated by Diagoras' supposed benefactor, Magistrate Cleon, because Diagoras had won a fight he was asked to throw. Enraged, Ajax sought Cleon out to murder him with his own two hands but was subsequently defeated, bested by foul sorceries and the attack of a demonically powerful fighter in Cleon's employ, known only as Hyperanthes. He was captured and his family subjected to great shame. Publicly tried for attempting to murder a magistrate, Ajax was to be sentenced to death by poisoning before Cleon intervened, demanding Ajax be sold to him as a slave as reparation, a demand that was granted. It was then that Ajax's fighting career truly began, as the magistrate entered him in brutal underground contests, rule-less deathmatches for the enjoyment of select crowds. Fighting for survival with neither weapons nor armor, Ajax overcame all odds with his continued survival and spectacular progress, eventually becoming the circuit's most celebrated champion. Only one thought kept him from despair: revenge. As time passed Ajax befriended a few of the other fighters and together they planned an escape. A hole in security, an opportune bribe carried out by acquaintances on the outside and superior combat skills were all that was needed, and soon the fighters were free. Knowing he'd be hunted down, Ajax decided to flee the country without involving anyone else, sneaking into a random merchant ship leaving the island which was first dragged around, then smashed to bits by a typhoon. The lone survivor, Ajax drifted aimlessly in a damaged raft until he arrived to a strange foreign land. So began his career as a travelling adventurer. Never settling in a single place for long, always moving, always fighting to become ever stronger, looking to return to his homeland. The only problem is, no ship seems to know how to get there and by this point he has boarded about a dozen random ships with no clue where exactly they were going, so he is well and truly lost in this regard. His homeland could be on the exact opposite of creation for all he knows. He has, however, come to find great enjoyment in his life and while he still seeks his home, he is content with facing life on a day to day basis, taking on new adventures as they come. It is not uncommon to find him as a strongman for hire, and tales are sometimes told of the strange, massive foreigner carrying neither weapons nor armor who clears out monster dens or bandit camps seemingly for the challenge of it. Enticing him to take part of a new adventure should be a simple matter. Other: I always though it was pretty boring how the badass fisticuffs class is always some type of asian stereotype built to be dodgy rather than a frontline manly man so think of Ajax as a Fighter rather than a Monk, speaking in class terms, except with less reliance on being given decent gear and magical buffs. He's the guy that stands at the front of the line, gets the crap kicked out of him and keeps going, and can deal some good damage especially in one on one fights. He's actually a prior character of mine, a Fighter in Dungeon World which lets you use gauntlets as your weapon type thanks to its narrative focus.
55,667	1,527	3	37	1,038	It was anyone's guess why Maru had been picked out of the crowd of many, wether it be ill-fated or simply because she was a beast she'd never know as she stared down at the letter, her emerald green eyes scanning the words with above human intelligence, her ears sat straight up on her head, twitching here and there to catch the sound bouncing off the cobbles as she folded up the parchment and placed it inside a leather pouch at her side. The few people out and about skirted the Faun with caution and mistrust etched across their features, she didn't expect them not to fear her, standing a little above six foot with her impressive two foot rack of antlers she assumed people would give her a wide berth, it was rare for her kind to mingle with the creatures of the everyday world, most humans hadn't even heard of her kind yet, if it wasn't her sheer size and lith appearance that scared folks away it was her strange long sword at her hip, it closely resembled a katana but was much longer to suit the height of the weilder. The street lights casted weary shadows about the town as Maru glided through the streets, her long legs striding elegantly across the stones, one might question how her hooves seemed to mute the echo that should be bouncing through the ally way though no one was around. Maru, though having been living as an indigenous years prior was rarely fearful, she was at ease in the dark, with her sword at her side and her bow at her back, she had lived her life for so long amongst the gluttonous and prideful ways of man kind, it was obvious with the few rings that sat on several of her antler tips, she was curious as to what would happen if she followed the messanger's instructions, she tipped her head forward as she moved out of the ally way to stop and look at the large house on an enclosed estate, surely this was the place, Maru stamped her feet and snorted loudly through her nostrils, she was thoroughly intrigued which was really the only thing keeping her moving forward. Maru, before the messenger had approached her with the letter had been heavily considering going back to be a blacksmith, the life of a mercenary wasn't exactly what one might call comfortable, she was never positive if she'd have a bed to sleep in at night and if any job she took on would pay well enough for food and further supplies, she did enjoy the discovery of new things as Maru was always extensively curious and she adored the things she found and acquired, choosing mostly to be paid in jewels rather than coin, but was it all worth it? Fate seemed to decide for her as she couldn't turn down anything as curious as a messenger with a letter and instructions to large house obviously owned by someone with a lot of coins, and possible gems. Maru stood to her full height and moved through the gate, her green eyes quickly scanning the grounds, her ears flicked nervously about, as cautious as she was curious Maru instinctively moved her hand to the hilt of her sword as she approached the manor, her tail and ears ram-rod straight and her eyes wide, she wasn't scared, just always cautious, always on the ready. She noticed a brute of a man already at the great doors as she slowed her pace, her hand switching to a more relaxed position on the sword rather than a defensive, she slowed to a stop several yards from the large house, her eyes sweeping across it's exterior, she wished she had the kind of money to own something as extravagant as this house, but she didn't dwell on her misfortunes, besides, she'd never want a house so large, she'd get a small house and fill it with jewels, her eyes sparkled with curiosity once more as she pressed onward toward the behemoth of a man and the luxurious home.	Name: Maru Fauna Species: Deer Faun Age: 67 Description: Personality: Maru is laid back and relaxed, she's kind, caring and immensely dedicated. When put into a situation she doesn't like or becomes upset and angry she can become agitated, constantly dancing about nervously or angerly. She rarely becomes angry and it's even more rare for her to become hostile. Skills/Abilities: Maru is a skilled tracker and hunter, she can be quite silent for someone with hooves, she's well adept at reading the emotions of others, this stems from watching animals to understand them. Maru is exceptional at using a bow and less exceptional at using a sword. Magic: (If your character possesses magical or supernatural abilities, please describe them here in detail. There are many different methods of spellcasting in the fantasy genre, I've described the 'weave' to some and have also left a link for the forgotten realms link if anyone is interested. Please make sure to describe the source of your character's magical abilities, whether it be their own internal "mana", magical runes, alchemical ingredients, wands, spellbooks, artifacts, talismans, or some contract with a deity or spirit (these are just a few examples). Certain magical abilities are generally considered off-limits for the sake of balance, such as time manipulation, teleportation, invincibility and total mind control. You can include a spell list, but this is not by any means required and you may take a more general approach to this description if you wish.) N/A Backstory: Maru grew up with her tribe deep in the jungle, they kept apart from humanity, often moving around the wood so they'd never get caught in one place. Maru was a skilled archer, the best in the tribe as they were taught since they were very little to draw a bow, she was the tribes best scout for year's, she'd been in line to become the next leader until the elders appointed a tall muscular male to take the dying leaders place, Maru, feeling there was nothing left to gain decided to leave, she took her bow, a quiver of hand crafted arrows and left. Venturing out of the jungle she'd spent her entire life in she was greeted by the harshness of civilization, she quickly learned how to deal with the other races, having to become more aggressive than probably any Deer Faun alive, she became an apprentice at a blacksmith and was taught how to wield a sword, the blacksmith had been an expert swordsman year's before when he was a young man, Maru had shown peeked interest in all the swords he'd collected and hung around the shop, she'd asked if he would teach her how to wield one. The smithy taught her how to hold it, thrust, par and counter with the blade. The old man decided that with her height and agility the katana was her better option and she found it easier to wield. She practiced every day for over five years, becoming close and confident with the blade she made. After several years of making blades and practicing with her own she left, became a mercenary, she had a keen taste in jewelry, it was common for her to be seen with rings on her antlers. Maru worked best alone whether it was delivery, blacksmithing or farming. She was restless staying in one place. Lore: The Deer Faun is a half human–half Deer (from the head to the waist being human, but with the addition of antlers) The deer faun is taller than the normal faun, the males standing an average of six foot five and the females six foot, they have large antlers rather than small goat horns. Their tail is like that of a white tail deer and their ears larger and more fluffy. They are native to the deep jungles, living off the land and preferring to hide from humanity rather than embrace it. They are trained to fight with bows as their only defensive measure, they're not hostile preferring to run and hide deep in the wood rather than face conflict. The deer Faun have a natural affinity to understand animals, not through words but expressions, the flick of an ear, the lash of a tail, etc. It isn't unheard of for a Deer Faun to leave it's tribe and seek out the riches of humanity, the tribe will disown the offender and cast them away if they ever try to return.
55,668	1,527	4	2,620	2,551	Following a set of rather detailed instructions to the small town, a young armored knight on horseback caught the eye of many as he entered the village. The settlement, while large, appeared to be rather poor- so the presence of any visitor was probably an uncommon sight. The vast majority of the buildings in the town were made of wood, and the streets were rather haphazardly paved with a combination of loose cobblestones and mud. All in all, it was a rather drab place- save for the conspicuously ornate, almost ostentatious manor at the top of the hill facing the town. Despite this, Emil was glad to have finally arrived after several long days on the road, and immediately made his way towards a nearby inn to restock his dwindling supplies, as well as give his horse a well needed break. Emil had begun unwinding in the tavern underneath the inn, making small conversation with the barkeeper as the man refilled his waterskins and made arrangements to restock the young knight's supplies when a small, cowed man attempted to gain Emil's attention. The man himself was actually of fairly average height, but stood in a very hunched, very tamed manner, as though he was less than a man. The small fellow managed to stammer out to him a request to proceed to the house at the hill with all due haste, though the request seemed almost more like pleading, begging, as though his life depended on it. Tired, but not too tired to spurn his entire reason for visiting this town, Emil paid the barkeep, and gathered up his belongings. Emil opted to walk up to the house, holding the reins of his horse in hand and leading the creature instead of riding it. The path to the house was short, and Emil didn't want to seem arrogant if his hose was at the top of the hill waiting for him. As it was, a small crowd was already starting to form up in the courtyard of this home- the most obvious of which was a rather large, brawny man loudly knocking on the wooden door, the door's knocker loud enough to fill the courtyard with its noise. Wrapping his lead to a post, Emil left his horse near the gate and approached the front door where the large brawny man was attempting to make his presence known.	Name: Emil Erran Species: Human Age: 18 Description: Emil is a young man standing in at about 5'10" in height, with the build of an athlete- or at least one used to continuous physical exertion. While not the pinnacle of strength and endurance, Emil is in good fighting shape, and his body is sinewy and lithe. He has a few scars on his body- though none of them are from combat. His eyes are a deep green, and his blonde hair is typically short and out of the way. His typical attire is a deep blue tunic, with thick trousers, and well worn leather boots and gloves. In combat, he wears a cuirass to protect his upper chest, while still allowing him full range of motion while mounted, reinforced with tough leather, along with armor on his boots, sides, shoulders and forearms. Personality: Warm and kind-hearted, Emil is a modest young knight with a strong sense of morality and justice. This level headed knight tries his best to stay brave and rational in the face of hardship and adversity, despite his inexperience. Due to his young age, Emil is rather impressionable, and expresses a desire to learn various skills and tricks from the older veterans, though is often self conscious about his lesser skills when compared to that of the more experienced members of the group. Honest and trustworthy, Emil is compassionate and kind, if a little shy and soft-spoken. Loyal to a fault, Emil is more than willing to risk himself for the sake of others, and goes to great lengths to defend his loved ones. A very down to earth and grounded individual, Emil's calm and generally positive demeanor, while occasionally bordering on naivety, bolsters the spirits of those around him. Skills/Abilities: As a young Knight, Emil is well trained in multiple martial skills, but lacks field experience. He has fought alongside his lord-knight, while still a squire and is no stranger to battle, but is not what one would call a veteran. While young, and not as capable of an armsman as the rest of his older peers, Emil possesses worldly knowledge and skills unexpected from one his age, and is knowledgeable of a variety of skills in various fields. --- Martial Skills --- Adept Swordsmanship - As the son of a knight, and a knight himself, Emil has received martial training in various fields, and is capable with many weapons, but shows the most promise with a sword. Skilled enough to face down a common soldier or an untrained fighter and coming out no worse for wear, Emil struggles against more hardened and experienced foes. Journeyman Spearmanship - Along with his swordsmanship, Emil has received training with the spear and lance, though it is clear he shows a preference to the sword. His stance and form are solid, and the spear is by nature, an easy weapon to pick up and use. He lacks the refinement of a master spearman, but can still use it with relative effectiveness. Journeyman Archery - Alongside his other martial skills, Emil has also been trained in the use of the bow and arrow. He is neither particularly fast, nor particularly accurate with the bow, and is for all intents and purposes, average. He does slightly better with a crossbow, and primarily utilizes this skill for hunting. Journeyman Horseback Riding - As a knight, Emil is trained on how to ride a horse, take care of a horse, and fight from a horse, though it is clear that he would prefer to do combat while on the ground. Stamina stemming from his youthfulness allows him to ride for hours without considerable exhaustion. Trained Armor use - Years of training have taught Emil how to quickly don and remove plate armor, and can thus move with more dexterity and quickness than one without training would be able to. He is also well versed on the care of plate armor. Trained Shield use - Several years of training has shown Emil how to properly brace and use a shield to block and deflect blows. As he is not the largest presence on the battlefield, when faced with larger foes, Emil primarily relies on deflecting and sidestepping enemy blows rather than attempting to completely stop or black oncoming attacks --- Trade Skills --- Journeyman Cooking - While not a master chef by any meaning of the word, Emil is resourceful and can cook a variety of meals with what little resources are often available while in the field. Journeyman Surgery/First Aid - Unable to treat wounds via magic, Emil has been trained and is experienced with treating a variety of minor and moderate wounds, and is even capable of some surgery for more serious wounds. These treatments are not magic, and do not mend wounds instantly- nor do they guarantee the successful mending of wounds, but can serve to stave off death until more experienced doctors or healers can provide aid. Journeyman Crafting - From tailoring and needlework, to leather-working, Emil, while not particularly amazing at any craftsman's trade, is skilled enough to make field repairs to clothing and armor. Magic Emil has no skill or control over magic, though it appears that he may have the affinity for magic. He views magic with suspicion and a small amount of fear, and while he has accepted magic as a facet of life, he is still unnerved by it. Backstory: The city of Edessa is a fair sized city-state located along the coast of __(mainland continent neighboring Silver Lily Isles)__. Edessa is a constitutional monarchy led primarily by the King, and a group of senators. It is not a major military power, but is known for its high quality knights and sturdy and reliable trade ships, and also contributed a large portion of its forces Mage-Wars decades ago. Edessa, due to its proximity to the Silver Lily Isles, often trades with the settlements on the Isle, most notably Waeldeshore. Edessa and Waeldeshore have built a rather positive trade relationship over the past two decades, and ships bearing Edessan flags are common in Waeldeshore and vice versa. Emil, youngest son of the Erran family, comes from a long line of Edessan Knights. Emil, like the rest of his brothers were introduced to the lifestyle of a knight at a young age, and were immersed in their culture from the moment he could walk. The son of a Edessan Knight and his wife, Emil and his brothers were well educated at a young age and were taught manners as well as basic martial skills and knowledges as children. Throughout their childhood, Emil and his brothers would often venture into the city to play with other children. Emil made friends easily, and was known for his gentle and sensitive demeanor, while the rest of his brothers were respected for their various other qualities. As they Erran children grew older, they were trained in the ways of various weapons, such as the spear and sword, and were trained in horsemanship and riding. After his seventh birthday, Emil was apprenticed to another noble family to serve as a page, where he would begin to further refine horsemanship and swordsmanship as well as learn the intricacies of reading and writing. A naturally perceptive and relatively intelligent child, Emil was treated well by his host family, and learned much under their tutelage. The Knights of Edessa, or the Edessan Knights as many know them as, are an order of knights based in the city of Edessa. These knights are tasked with serving and protecting the people of Edessa, and often promote humanitarian movements to hunting monsters in the surrounding areas. These stalwart warriors are well known for both their valor and martial skill, despite their relatively small numbers. Every male member of the Erran family had been an Edessan Knight at one point in their life. Emil's brother is among the famed members of the Edessan Knights, and one of the King's personal guards. Each of Emil's brothers has already entered service in the order. As he turned 14, he became squire to a famed Edessan Knight, where he furthered his training, continuing his work on bladesmanship and horsemanship, as well as learning archery, music, speech, and skills befitting a young knight. Here he learned how to take care of, and maintain armor, how to tend horses and treat wounds. The next several years were difficult, his knight was fair, but strict, and offered him nothing but the most difficult challenges to face. Now a fresh 18 years old, Emil's journey to become a full fledged knight of Edessan has been completed, and Emil undertakes his first few journeys as his own knight. A message from the Great Sage Genevieve of Waeldeshore gives Emil his first taste of an adventure that he can call his own. Possessions, Equipment, Weapons: Father's Sword - A gift given to Emil by his father, upon his recent knighting. The sword is forged from Dwarven Steel- a special dwarven metallurgy technique that results in a tougher, denser, more durable steel. The blade is old and worn from use, but still remains a reliable weapon. A shorter than average bastard sword, it is light and maneuverable enough to be held in one hand, but its two handed grip makes it able to be wielded with two. Common Spear - A 6 foot pole of ash wood, with a steel tip attached. One of the most common personal weapons in the world, this weapon is easily used, and easily replaced. Able to be wielded with one hand, but most effective with two. Shortbow & Quiver - A short yew bow meant for hunting. Plain and simple, without any sort of frills, other than leather wrapping around the grip. A wooden and leather quiver contains 20 arrows. Both are typically stored on the outer saddlebags of Emil's horse. Heater Shield - A mid-sized shield with the Erran family coat of arms emblazoned across it. It is a lightweight metal shield that can be strapped to the forearm and secured with the hand. It has a leather strap that allows it to be slung over the shoulder/worn over the back. Edessan Half Plate - a cut down suit of plate armor generally utilized by mounted Edessan knights and soldiers. Plates protect major parts of the body, while the rest of the body is protected with tough leather and mail under a tunic. This is to allow light weight, and greater mobility while mounted. The benefits confer to foot combat as well. Roark, Horse - A well bred, multi-purpose horse ridden by Emil. Roark is a calm, well mannered horse, that doesn't scare easily. Roark wears boiled leather barding(armor) on his face, neck, and body. The barding is lightweight, and can protect Roark from glancing blows but doesn't provide much protection elsewise. Its still better than nothing, Emil argues. Roark also has saddlebags on his sides and behind the saddle. Roark's saddlebags contain: A pair of leather waterskins, a small pouch with money, a tinderbox, lines and tackle for fishing, a small iron bowl for cooking, a small hatchet for wood gathering, a small knife and whetstone, a length of rope (approx. 30 feet), a spool of fine thread and needle, a roll of clean cloth and bottle of spirits for cleaning and treating wounds, a pouch of herbal ointment, a lantern with several spare candles, a few days worth of provisions for Emil as well as his horse. Behind the saddle is a blanket and spare clothes are wrapped in a roll of canvas.
55,669	1,527	5	276	729	Regina stood by the door, glaring at the last of the fighters from the pub. "And stay out!" she yelled before heading back inside, slamming the door behind her. She took her seat in the back of the room, glaring at the man across the table from her. "Continue?" "Y-yes." the man said, fear apparent in his eyes. "As I stated previously, I come with a letter. My Mistress would like you to go speak with her." As he spoke, he slid a letter from his pocket and slid it across the table to her. An apple in hand, Regina stared at the letter as it floated and unfolded itself as she ate. She read through the letter quickly with a small smile. "Oh, I remember her. It's been a quarter of a century since I last saw her." "Yes, she said you helped defeat a dragon." he began. The halfling interrupted. "I didn't help defeat a dragon. That was all the Dragon Slayer, Siegfried. I merely helped capture the necessary artifact." "Will you be answering her summons?" The man asked hesitantly. "Most likely." she said as she stood, taking the last bite of her apple. Across the room was a trio of men throwing knives at a target on the wall. Each of them had gotten close but none had hit the target yet. A single knife flew through the air, piercing the center of the smallest circle, causing the men to eye the halfling in fear and anger. Regina pulled her knife back to her hand. "Keep trying boys." Turning back to the man, she began to speak again. "Tell her, I should be-" She froze and looked around, a bit confused as to why the man would run off without a definite answer. From the bar, Regina could hear an argument rising quickly. She rolled her eyes and floated to the bar, landing opposite them. "Not again," she sighed, looking at the pair. -Two Weeks Later- Regina strode through town with a smile. She'd taken all her belongings when she left Waeldeshore, not knowing if she'd be back. As she walked, she noticed quite a few beautiful woman, most of whom seemed to be ignoring her. It hadn't taken too long to get to the home of Genevieve and she felt glad she had been chosen. Upon arriving, she eyed the growing group. "So, I guess you're my team," she said, looking each of them over, getting a small glance into their minds to see her first impression on them. "Call me Regina." To show off a little, she lifted herself in the air a few feet.	Name: Regina Hills Species: Halfling Age: 57 Description: Regina is a bit tall for a halfling, a whole six inches taller than the average of 3 feet, with long, reddish brown hair and chocolatey brown eyes. She has a pale complexion and a few small wrinkles, preferring to stay in the shade, and a thin but curvy figure that is slowly catching up with her age. Regina wears a thin layer of leather armor over her clothes with multiple daggers hidden on her and a pair of longtooth daggers on her hips. Regina carries no less than 20 throwing daggers, 10 normal daggers and a pair of longtooth daggers on her at any time. Personality: Regina is the type of woman to flirt with some of the younger women though nothing too far as she doesn't want to be left again. She's easy to anger if you say the wrong thing. However, she does keep her anger under control while at work. She's no longer the happy-go-lucky woman she once was, instead taking everything carefully and not letting anyone close again. Skills/Abilities: Regina has great aim with her throwing daggers and is proficient with her normal daggers to block and redirect, allowing her to use her longtooth daggers, with their little extra length, to attack. She can also pick locks, pick pockets, find and remove traps, track people, most any skill a thief would find very helpful. Other than that, she is an excellent with her psionic powers, allowing her to do many things most people cannot. -Combat Mind: Using this, she has a clear understanding of where her allies and enemies are. -Telekinesis: She can levitate most objects though nothing bigger than a small human male for more than a couple minutes. -Levitation: She can lift herself up to 12 feet from whatever she's standing on. -Complete Healing: With a 12-hour meditation process, she can heal herself of all injuries, illnesses, poisons and the like. -Quick Healing: With a matter of a few minutes and a lot of concentration, she can heal her small injuries, though nothing bigger than a small cut. -Adrenaline Control: By controlling the production and release of adrenaline in her system, she can give herself a temporary physical boost on demand. -Body Weaponry: Using this, she can turn her hands into dagger blades or go as far as her elbow for a shortsword blade. -Displacement: She can control where people see her, whether or not she moves. -Teleport: With this, she can teleport up to 200 feet away in the blink of an eye, with loud popping sounds emitting from both the place she teleports from and to. -Telepathy: Using this, she is able to communicate wordlessly with another intelligent being without having to worry about language barriers. -Daydream: She can cause another person's mind to wander, allowing her to pick their pockets and get away safely with a lower chance of getting caught. Magic: She has no magic though some have commented her psionics are similar. Backstory: Regina was raised in a big halfling city, well as big a city as the halflings would build, with her numerous siblings. The only way she could stand out in her family enough to be remembered was the fact that, at a young age, she could make apples fly to her hand. She had practically never spent any time at home once she was old enough and had gotten caught picking locks and grabbing an apple for a snack. She had eventually decided, after nearly having her hand chopped off for the thousandth time, to leave the city and find a better life. She soon was found by a thieves' guild that took her in and began training her. She spent the next 15 years in the guild, training as hard as she could to get faster and stronger though her strength didn't improve by much. They found out about her psionic skills rather quickly and, being only the second psionic in the guild, learned from an older man who taught her how to teleport, heal small wounds, levitate items other than apples, such as herself, and so on. After her training was finished, she began traveling again, ending up in Waeldeshore. It was there she met a group that was going to be fighting a dragon. She decided to join them, supplying the team with a lot of jerky during their travel to the cave. They ended up stealing a magic artifact from a sleeping dragon, one of two in that particular cave and escaping rather quickly. Upon arriving back at the town, most of them decided to spend the night. Regina offered to share a room with one of the more beautiful, yet still a bit scary, women on the team. When she awoke, however, she saw her ally was gone. She had searched for days but the trail was cold and she couldn't follow what she couldn't find. Instead, she decided to go east. She went far east, ending up in a land much different than what she was used to a year later. It was there she met another halfling woman, a bard who instantly captured her heart. She traveled with the bard, acting as her bodyguard for a decade and a half until she was injured badly. She was unconscious for days as she slowly healed herself from nearly dying but, when she awoke, the bard was gone. She asked around but nobody had seen the halfling bard around in days. She had been abandoned again. With nothing else to do, she returned to the west. It took 4 years to travel back, as she had done other jobs along the way to distract her, but she eventually returned to Wealdeshore. With not much else to do, she became a guard for one of the local pubs. It's been 5 years since her return and, in that time, she's proven to be a great asset as well as a new resident for the foreseeable future.
55,670	1,527	6	2,426	2,292	The scent of others, fresh as it was, hanging in the air spoke multitudes as her jowls flexed and drew in their identities and soon committed them to memory. Numerous as they were, each proved distinct within her sharpened mind, as though she knew about each of them beyond whatever first words they could have spoken to her; there was the scent of two men, both one older and much more robust, pungent, and another whose was mingled with the air of a horse, of which matched the hoof prints her good eye cast itself upon. Beside the prints of the men and the horse, so too was there that of a deer... a large one at that, and its gait matched poorly anything the aged huntress expected. Strange. The thought came to her, but it did accompany what seemed fair enough in scent, as there were two others of which were both female, the latter being a halfling and the former being something else altogether. Nothing immediate, but there were other monstrous things afoot short of her. This she understood as a good omen, at least for the time being. Each track moved in the same procession up the path to the manor and past the gate, barring the horse of which was not far now that she began to search it out with her gaze; it stood, disciplined as it was, affixed to a post and issued only a huff. Not wishing to announce herself by startling the beast of burden, she avoided coming any nearer, but its calm even at this distance in the face of a potential predator inferred one certain fact... that it was tamed, trained and battle-ready, something its leather barding suggested as well. Now having better understood, or so she believed, the scenario she found herself in, she committed herself to following their advance, still shrouded in her raggedly worn and faded ebon robe. Her silhouette certainly was not human - the way in which her legs appeared gave that much away - but it was better than openly revealing herself, as for the time being she still lacked any reason to trust the deliverer of the message, even more so their master. Yet, with each quiet step she made, she found herself soon witnessing a gathering upon the lavish porch of the abode and there was some talk in the air using the common tongue. "-me Regina." Was what her ears picked up at first sound. Not first, that was a mistake to lay claim to - the knocking man she had heard first, some short time ago, but she had not immediately associated the two events until this moment. But, as she came to expect upon seeing the enormous human, he was the more recognizable of the three mortals' scents. Not far behind him was a younger, almost meek young man in well fitted suit of half-plate. Initially she thought him diminutive, at least in comparison to the sheer might of the burly human's form, but appearances were deceiving, much so. The halfling, as a decided example, unexpectedly appeared to be free of the earth's eternal grasp and certainly without a magical or mundane means to do so, and the earlier pair of prints no less belonged to a faun. The half-beast's attention shifted from one to another while she remained but no more than fifteen paces away. A distance she had learned was often enough to counter any usual advance, but with this... interesting collective, she did not immediately expect them to be hostile. A monster as she was, this gathering was no less any odd in their own individual ways. Preferring not to leave it to surprise, her presence that was, her matured, softly growled, yet stern voice spoke from beneath her cowl; "I take it we have all been summoned by the master of this place."	Name: "Sakaala" Referring to herself as "Sakaala", it is unknown what her name truly is, but there exists reason enough to believe that her assumed name has apparent symbolism, most likely amongst those familiar to her fallen people who placed great value in the meaning of all things, most importantly those belonging to themselves. For those in the know of obscure and arcane cultural history, she is "the finality" or more simply "the last (whole) one", a sobering title that is not only accurate but most disheartening. Species: Monstrous Humanoid The origin and types of monstrous humanoids vary greatly, with some being the product of twisted arcane magic unchecked to others being the work of some divine force. They range from the more "common", as with the minotaur, centaur or harpy, to the more exotic and rare. Sakaala, as well as those who once made up her people, bordered the spectrum of the latter more than the former, being mostly obscure but recorded comparatively well. However, the question of what created a small number of lionmen abroad the realm is unknown, but their kind existed like many monsters before the Age of Mortals, near certainly having an origin many ancient eras past. Only in recent times has this rare bloodline, as with many other unusual beings of similar sorts, all but disappeared after prolonged hunting of "aberrants" by paranoid mortals in the wake of the near successful invasion of the plane. Age: 47 Although longer lived than most mortal men by virtue of unnatural blood, Sakaala is no youth and certainly no longer in her prime. In spite of these things, as with her natural relatives, she is a remarkable example of longevity which has been extended yet by dabbling in arcane arts and an incredible will to survive. Description: Sakaala is distinct in just race alone; owing both to her incredible scale among mortal men, at the height of horse of twenty-two hands, and her overtly leonine features of which are only vaguely humanoid in nature and otherwise quite savage. Her dense sand tone hide is badly scarred about the right of her body, bearing some wounds of which were so visibly savage that even magical aid has not wholly righted them, but the most notable being the blindness of her right eye. While no less lame in the right arm than blind in the right eye, almost entirely numb, she retains its use by sense of self alone. Ambidextrous in response because of this weakness, her tendency to shore up vulnerabilities is remarkable. She distinctly conceals the worst of her injuries beneath her partial robe, and outside of the obvious blindness of an eye, her body is in remarkable condition for a female of her growing age, violent history and having bore offspring in previous. While not overtly robust, her musculature is still visible and her strength measurably stronger than many men. Instead of these qualities, she is more remembered for the gold that is the color of her eyes, barring the blindness; they are akin to portals of lingering sadness and fierce resolve - the same lament of failure and animal cry of defiance entwined. Minimalist in her armoring, Sakaala bears a well worn mithral breastplate upon her chest and a matching pauldron and bracer to her weaker arm, ending it in a fingerless leather glove. Beneath her limited armor she dresses in the remnants of an aged arcanist's robe that ends just beneath her sizable bust, rolling it at the shoulder upon the right limb and let loose upon her strong left arm; the formerly black material having faded to a dusted grey. It, like the rest of her regalia, is undoubtedly salvaged from a fallen friend or a fallen foe, becoming both a prize and a memento. Upon her waist fits a wide tribal belt and battered sash keeping rolled, pressed leather leggings that are accompanied by a pair of slender, exotic daggers worn at the thigh about her lower half. While the belt she adorns herself was once common to her kind, they exist now only as prizes in the hands of grim collectors. Worn about her neck hangs a morbid reminder of her enemy's hatred for her people - a collection of fangs and claws - which was most certainly pried from the cold, dead grasp of one of her felled foes of which is accompanied by another, not nearly minor trinket; a decorative necklace of polished black stone upon a humble leather loop adorned with smaller decorative pieces. Not keen to speak of the second of the two pieces of finery, she often counts the poached points of her other necklace. Bearing a true hand-and-a-half elven blade of indeterminate age as her favored weapon, it is uncertain if it were a tool of conflict initially her own or one which she liberated from her would-be killers. Forged of the rare ore mithral, it is polished to an exquisite silvery shine instead of dulled with age about the fine of the blade. Despite its characteristic remarkable lightness and finesse, the weapon is truly designed to be wielded with both hands by its bearer, yet Sakaala's great scale and greater strength allows her to wield it with deadly ease in a single pawed hand. Unnervingly, so much as drawing the blade - let alone swinging it - sets it to ring faintly in a short lived but soft harmonic hum, but more than anything the bite of the sword itself leaves such keen blows that they are almost unsettling to look upon. Personality and Alignment: Neutral Good The benevolent matriarch, her inherently motherly animal nature follows her strongly with the incredible violence, that both magical and mundane, which she is capable of should she or those she considers her own be threatened. Kindly even toward those wary of her, her wrath is not easily provoked, but no threats made against her or those she views as companions are considered just idle. Perhaps unconsciously she tends to the wounded, acquires fresh provisions, and stays awake during watches all to ensure the continued survival of her adoptive company. Aging as she is, she has embraced the role of a vizier and sage, providing great insight and wisdom to those who inquire upon her. No friend of evil and abiding by her own sense of morality, she is best described as an intellectual and spiritual benefactor. Skills/Abilities: Lore Expertise Having lived such a varied and long life has graced Sakaala with many skills, the most notable is her vast knowledge upon matters ranging from historical events to distant locales, from to forces of nature to arcane mysteries. Self taught, her incredible recollection is imperfect and incomplete, but more often than not her acquired lore is relevant. She specializes in the intellectual categories of arcana, history, nature and locales with little greater knowledge on other matters. Martial Adept There are those who achieve martial proficiency through strength of arms alone and then there are those who acquire combat superiority by raw skill. Sakaala's inhuman strength and agility lend well to life lived by the sword, but it is her intuition, intelligence and force of personality that truly make her a deadly foe as she not only understands the principals of conflict, but actively anticipates them with preternatural skill. This so called "blade-magic" is a blend of martial arts, mysticism, and swordplay - at times engaging in impossible feats martial through magic and at others achieved by intense discipline and practice alone. Sakaala makes up for her disabilities by simply being more skillful and magically inclined than most her foes. Bolstering Presence While Sakaala is present, her mere warrior nature supernaturally inspires mental resolve and great courage in the face of fear among herself and allies. Effects that attack the mind are weakened, and attempts to intimidate or cause fear are dampened heavily as the body, emotion, mind, and spirit are made hardened against such effects. Perfect Mind Honed by intense exposure to offensive magic, Sakaala's force of personality provides her immense leverage against mind-affecting effects. The bane of charms, enchantments and illusions, she often rapidly comes to her senses, especially in the heat of battle or when her companions are threatened. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Steel Wind This maneuver involves a sudden turn of the blade that lands an otherwise singular blow against one target to also connect with another. A difficult attack to employ in the hands of the untrained, its uncanny speed and incredible finesse work are further augmented by Sakaala's ambidexterity, making her a deadly foe against numbers of enemies, especially the lightly armored. This attack is effectively a single attack against multiple targets. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Wall of Blades The agility Sakaala can display for brief periods of time even without her magic is unsettling. With lightning speed, Sakaala can counter a single melee or ranged attack, blocking or deflecting the worst of the blow with her own weapon, even in the worst of scenarios with precognition-like intuition. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Seasoned Ranger A born predator, Sakaala was one of many huntresses of her people, no less acting as a wildlands warrior in times of danger when threatened. Having survived alone from these skills for years, she is an able huntress and would be considered expert in the wilderness, capable of even eluding enemies and striking unexpectedly in natural environments. Of her practical skills, she is a trained gatherer of flora and fauna thus able to provide for herself and others in the ways of naturally provided rations, traditional medicine, pure water and various feats of outdoorsmanship. She is difficult to track when being followed and hardly inhibited by natural terrain. Magic: Channel Spell The ability to cast magical spells and effects is no small wonder even in a world where magic is possibility, but the power to do so while accompanying martial maneuvers is another great feat altogether. Able to channel some of her spells through her natural and weapon attacks, she unleashes devastating blows that inflict a variety of other effects on the victims of the attack. Working in conjunction with her supernatural martial arts, she can perform these abilities often in unexpected ways such as casting a single spell and striking multiple foes with its effects at once. She is not only limited to a small selection of spells to channel a day, but cannot do so extensively without becoming exhausted mentally. Bladeweave A swing of the sword moves with awesome magical grace and almost rhythmic perfection while giving off glints of faint light. Any creature unfortunate enough to be struck might find itself briefly dazed for a moment of hesitation by the fascinating magical swordsmanship exhibited. Creatures that have already been dazed are just as likely to be dazed again, but those resistant to illusions are not likely to be so awed. Combustion A corona of roiling heated air sheathes the blade, leaving waves of intense heat in the wake. A creature or object struck by the weapon discharges the spell, causing the target to instantly ignite in a personal inferno and setting them intensely ablaze for a moment before the magical flames vanish. If hasty or fortunate, a creature can extinguish the lingering non-magical flames left behind - if not careful, they continue to burn with mundane fire until its fuel is exhausted or its air is cut off. Enfeeblement An ominous dark green glimmer envelops the weapon's blade and is discharged upon successful strike, magically debilitating the muscular strength of the victim. Each instance of crippled physical might is additive, and creatures depleted of their strength are temporarily paralyzed and rendered helpless. Their lost strength returns minutes later after the last blow endured. Fatiguing A faint dullness and aura of immaterial grey shrouds the weapon's blade and is discharged upon a successful blow. The so affected creature is overcome by fatigue, slowing its physical strength and reflexes greatly, but most notably leaving it tired and unable to run. The weight of their debilitation is brief, lasting only a few prolonged moments and once the effects wear off, they are no worse for wear because of it. Shocking A scatter of sparks and silent cyan-white lightning shudder about the sword's length, pulling it more accurately toward metal targets. Upon striking, the magical effect discharges with a dull localized clap of thunder and the target is struck by a mighty burst of lightning from the weapon, jarring them. This channeled effect is much more likely to land upon metal targets than those not bearing much metal. True Strike A bearer of a weapon to be imbued takes a brief moment to gain precognative insight into their next attack, greatly increasing its likelihood to land, yet this strength comes at the cost of denying the caster action for a moment. Now enchanted for its next blow, it ignores both magical and practical forms of concealment and seems to find the weakest point in the target's defenses. Once it strikes, the benefit ends and the aura of perfect clarity is gone. Wraithstrike A phantasmal air surrounds the now shimmering blade which is sheathed in ghostly wisps. For a brief moment, it strikes with deathly accuracy, penetrating conventional defenses such as armor or even benefits such as magical deflectiveness, needing only to merely touch the victim to deal its damage in full as though it were a spirit. Upon striking, the effect ends and the weapon returns to its normal qualities. Natural Sorceress As a creature born of magic, the very essence of latent power lies within Sakaala and those that were like her, infused with every ounce of their person. It is from this obscure pool that she draws upon, evoking sorcerous power on whim, but having deeply specialized in doing so; her repertoire of magical spells not vast or complex, but instead practical and martial. She blends the martial arts and swordplay with her magic instead of casting traditional spells by and far, although she can indeed manifest some purely magic effects. Traditionally, few monstrous humanoids are able mages - instead relying upon their natural superiority to combat magical and mundane threats through sheer force and intuition. Sakaala, in spite of these things and the taboos of her now lost society, has taken up arcane power to compensate for her debilitation and growing age. It is known that many mortals are driven mad by arcane power with time, but many monsters seem no worse for wear. As with all sorcerers, Sakaala's magic depletes throughout the day when she expends it. Recovering her inherent energy when she rests for a prolonged time, she relies upon measured application of mystic force so not to expend all of her magic in a short time although she is capable of doing so. Least (0th) Arcane Mark, Amanuensis, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Read Magic, Touch of Fatigue Lesser (1st) Nerveskitter, Shocking Grasp, Truestrike, Ray of Enfeeblement Common (2nd) Combust, Bladeweave, Wraithstrike Great (3rd) Haste, Dispel Magic Arcane Mark A visible or invisible permanent mark of magical enchantment is placed upon the target without causing harm. If placed upon a creature, it fades with time over a month. When invisible, it requires a creature that can see invisibility to notice the mark. Otherwise only an effect that detects magic renders the mark visible, but one must be able to read magic as well to understand its meaning, if it even has one. Amanuensis An invisible force, when provided with text to read and parchment, begins transcribing the mundane words of another work. The force continues to generate the copied text word for word on to the initially blank parchment, skipping any illustrations and magical enchantments it encounters in its work, leaving their locations empty. While it does not translate the writings, should they be in a language not understood, it does continue to copy them until its duration ends or it pauses, awaiting more parchment. Detect Magic The viewer can visually detect magical effects within their line of sight, out to a short distance as glowing radiation. If they wish to concentrate they may separate different auras and determine their strength, and with further concentration attempt to determine the specific spell effect that is active. Powerful magical effects and creatures leave lingering auras, and appear more distinctly upon focus. Dispel Magic A powerful, brief burst of nullifying magic affects a creature or object, or dispels an area instantly of any temporary magical effects and interrupts ongoing ones or those being cast. The dispelling affect always targets the most powerful spells first, then attempts to remove the progressively weaker ones of its target. Against a creature casting a spell, this effect causes the spell to immediately fail to cast. Haste The caster and nearby allies blur with sudden, lightning fast alacrity, moving with intense speed and reflexes. Their attacks become so rapid they are a near blur of motion, and their movement causes them to shimmer with enchanted speed. Striking more accurately and evading more rapidly, this effect lasts only a few intense prolonged moments. Mage Hand An invisible force may manipulate objects through concentration as though it were an extension of its master. Although capable of only lifting light objects, it has the full functionality of a phantasmal hand free of a body, giving it great range of motion. A form of very limited magical psychokinesis, its range is short and it disperses to nothing if it travels far. Message A distant conversation may be held at a whispered tone, sent to a small number of selected creatures. Although each may reply individually, the visibly spoken words are sent to all affected individuals. It bypasses line of sight, limited out to several hundred feet, but is stopped by magical silence, dense metal or stone, or several feet of earth or wood. The words spoken are identical to what is being said and do not transcend language barriers. Nerveskitter An icy rush races through the blood of the affected individual, spurring them to act or react to danger well before they regularly would be capable. Immediate in effect and its casting, it gives the the creature great precognition for but a moment, allowing them to act with greater initiative. Although limited in range out to a short distance, it heightens the senses and reactions greatly for a crucial few seconds. Prestidigitation This effect can generate a wide array of more minor effects, of which are humble yet practical uses of magic. They range from cleaning to dirtying an object, creating minor levitation in small objects, chill or warm slightly, ignite or extinguish mundane flames, create small fragile objects or play ethereal musical notes, and so forth. While it cannot duplicate stronger spells, it perhaps can evoke the illusion of greater magic at play. Read Magic Enabling a reader to explicitly read magically concealed text, it can be used to translate runes, scrolls, symbols and other forms of enchanted text. It does not invoke any latent magical effect of the writing, but it allows the reader to no longer require the ability to read that enchanted text through magic, giving them inherent understanding of it. Backstory: Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary By "The Mage", quoted from "Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary", Chapter VI "On the Subject of Sakaala" "Hunter, warrior, arcanist - over the span of a lifetime one has many varied roles that they might confront, but few ever live them so fully as to explore them in their entirety. She however, has. Undeniably left with the signs of terrible wounds past, most notably the blindness of her right eye and blatant lameness of the right arm, she has endured trials no one, be them man or beast, should be forced to confront alone. Born an exceptional huntress but appointed a warrior, she served loyally on behalf of her scarce peoples, keeping grim threats beyond, those we do not suffer, at bay. Although she, as with select others among her lot, served admirably on behalf man, not all men were so approving. It was in this she was forced to fight to the last beside those who had become her sisters on an ever losing front, but for all of her skill even she too was felled. She too has felt the bite of defeat... all the more memorable than that of victory. She does not speak to us about what became of her children, but when you look upon her eyes you see that same hurt of someone with nothing left to her in this world. It is for these reasons she turned to things most men believe left better unknown - the arcane. For one reason or another, perhaps because she is not of mortal stock, she has acquired the capacity to wield this mystic thing as any other weapon. She has made her body, and even her blade, its conduit. It is all almost a direct extension of herself, the way in which she flows like graceful death both natural and magical; the manner in which she ably adapts her styles, be them as subtle as her favored hand to the placement of her feet, even in her age. I wonder if she is truly satisfied now, watching over us like our matriarch - some relic of a dead people - blessing us with kindness we cannot possibly repay. After all, what could we offer her? We are but mere men; arrogant, brash, foolish and young. What really drives her to aid us in the heat of conflict or tend to our wounds thereafter? A motherhood she still lives vicariously? Whatever the reason, she has more than earned my faith in her; my admiration for her."
55,671	1,527	7	1,153	95	Ionathan pondered as he grew closer to the house, was it a trap? To kill the heroes that saved Waeldeshore? Ionathan would never consider himself a hero, he had merely been in the right place at the right time. Nearing the house Ionathan now looked at the people by the door. Ionathan eyebrows were raised to places that they had never been, was that a Deer Faun? He had read about them in some book long ago but just thought they were the stuff of legend. Banging on the door was a large man who didn't seem to have any weapons which puzzled Ionathan, if he was not a fighter what was he? A cook? Ionathan then frowned upon seeing the young lad, how come everyone has half plate accept for him? Putting the thought out of his head he looked the boy up and down, he had seen his type during the war enthusiastic and almost free of fear he was like him when he was young. At least there was a familiar face in the crowd, the Halfling from Waeldeshore, Ionathan never did arrest her for unlawful use of magic in public which she seemed to be doing now. Lastly there was some kind of feline humanoid that had just emerged from the shadows, just by looking at her, Ionathan knew that the feline has a lot of experience under her belt. "I take it we have all been summoned by the master of this place." Tucking his sallet under his arm Ionathan now thought to make his presence known. "Indeed we have and now I feel, it is the time for introductions." Ionathan stood to attention like the drill master had bored into him many years ago "Sir Ionathan Hepburnberg" putting a clenched fist to his chest and doing a half bow "At your service"	Name: Ionathan Hepburnberg Race: Half-Elf Description: Tall, Honourable,kind-hearted, mid 30s human age appearance. Age: 53 Gender: Male Appearance: Dark Green eyes under black eyebrows and short, black hair. At 6 foot 1 Ionathan is above average height for humans and easily stands out with his sharp, elven like features including elf like ears but more rounded and less pronounced, he has a Light skin colour with a small scar on his right cheekbone Clothing/Armor: A Tabard with the Hepburnberg Coat of arms over a mail shirt with padding underneath. He has a few satchels upon his belt consisting of first aid supplies. Atop his head is a sallet with a padded lether cap underneath. On casual days, Ionathan wears a plain brown tunic. Weapons: Ionathan wields a bastard sword that is usually equiped with his shield that he carries on his back with a Guige when it's not equiped. The shield is a standard heater shield with the Hepburnberg heraldry for a coat of arms. Skills/Abilities: An experience fighter-Ionathan's experience in the army has not left him as he remembers the battles he was in and how to take on opponents of different measure. Discipline and Obedience- As part of his soldier training the iron discipline is still embedded in Ionathan's mind. Ionathan knows basic first aid with some advance understanding of the significance of wounds. Backstory: With a human father and a elven mother Ionathan got to learn about both human and elven cultures from an early age. However, His father was a wealthy landowner so his marriage to an elf was most scandalous, this left Ionathan with a resentment of the nobility and few friends. Ionathan in his childhood and adolescents spent his time reading and received a good education via private tutors. When the war broke out Ionathan had just reached Adulthood and being in a noble family he was enlisted as an officer cadet, Ionathan's training at the officers training camp was harsh but effective, at the start he was like any other who had just reached adult hood, full of energy and always cheerful, but by the end he was a disciplined and skilled officer who acted with knowledge and calculation rather than gut feeling. After The training he was assigned to be a Lieutenant of the 35th regiment of foot where he served throughout the war. The 35th served with valor and duty with their most famous action taking place when a strike force went to strike a supply town near the border and the 35th held the road despite repeated enemy assaults until reinforcements arrived, the officers were personally kissed on the cheeks by the ruling official of the town and were offered the best rooms in the taverns while the regiment was resupplied. After the war Ionathan adopted a girl made orphaned by the war and settled down and bought a cosy 2 bedroomed house in Waeldeshore were he became a guard for the town. Over the years he reflected on his life in the army while growing to like the town and became a respected by his colleagues and the town for his by the book approach to handling situations and his good relation with the Guard Captain. Throughout the years he made sure that his daughter was given the best education he could afford her with his salary, even on the weekends giving lessons himself. He remains in close contact with his parents who visit every month. Ionathan is looking forward to a life of keeping law and order while letting time heal the wounds of war. After the "happening" at Waeldeshore, Ionathan took over the family estate in the countryside and established it as a fine farming estate. The workers being retired soldiers and victims of the happenings, live in accommodation around the estate and although the pay is modest, Ionathan provides food, warmth and shelter for those who have suffered. Ionathan put aside his sword and picked up the pen becoming Commissioner of Justice, reforming the guard into a more professional law enforcement body. Being part of a noble family Ionathan was put through an arranged marriage with was easy to arrange due to the fame he gained in fighting the demons, while the couple are not a "lovey dovey" pair they both love each other dearly and have enjoyed there years of marriage which soon gave them a son. Ionathan’s Adopted daughter was accepted by Ionathan’s wife with open arms and now has become the state ambassador traveling around the world promoting friendship and trade between nations. One day Ionathan received a strange letter from Genevieve calling him to once more take up arms, Ionathan immediately informed his wife of the letter and his intent to leave. Although leaving his wife and child to themselves weighted heavy in Ionathan’s heart, he departed several days later. Alignment- Lawful good
55,672	1,527	8	1,054	1,812	On the outside, the house itself was not -as- different as the rest of the shabby lots in this so called village. It was obvious that an effort was made, at the very least, to make it stand out. Unfortunately, poor weather and time make it unbearably difficult to keep up such appearances. And so, by the time the group had arrived, while they would certainly notice the odd way in which it somehow stood out, it would have looked as pitiful as the rest of them. Suddenly footsteps could be heard from behind the door, rushing to open it. A young woman, barely into her twenties, stood in the door way, her hand over her chest as she caught her breath. Any introductions were cut short as the young woman spoke. "My apologies for keeping you waiting, please do come in." She offered a curt nod, and motioned them all inside. To anyone with keen senses, they might have felt something before entering... something odd, not just about the house, but someone was watching them. It wasn't clear where that someone was, nor was their intent. But somewhere in the distance, a pair of eyes lingered over the odd group. The figure did not stir, did not speak, no sound was uttered upon viewing who was present. They remained silent and hidden, merely observing the going-ons in front of the sage's home. The outside appearance of the small cottage was quite deceiving. For starters it was much bigger inside than the outside may have led you to believe. Everything was polished, exotic carpets draped over the cold, hard floors, fancy curtains shielded the interior from the views that plagued the town, and chandeliers hung in every room, illuminating every corner and crevice. The young woman quickly made her way to the front of the group. She was pretty in a very plain way, mousy brown hair pulled back in a braided bun, and eyes that matched in color. There was nothing extravagant really to speak about her, but she seemed pleasant enough. She led them into a large room, it wasn't a very far walk from the front door, and the group would not have noticed anything distinctive within the nouveau riche setting. Once in the room, there was a long rectangular table of cherry wood, lined with ornate chairs. A large chair was placed on the far end, the seat was padded for extra comfort. "You will stay in here, for now. The master of the house will be with you shortly.", was all the woman said before disappearing into halls.	Name: Isabeau Falkenrath Species: Human/Witchling Age: 52 Description: Having let her hair grow out, her dark auburn locks are typically tied up in a braided bun, several pieces, refusing to be bound, frame her face, complementing an olive skin tone. A grey strand here and there, depicting age. Her eyes are something to behold; light green surrounded by a thin ring of gold. Freckles sprinkle lightly over a smooth face, nearly void of any wrinkles representative of a woman coming into her fifties. She stands at about 5’7” tall, a petite upper body sitting upon wider hips and thick thighs. Not overly muscular though her body is tone. When exposed, displayed on her back are a number of scars, some seeming a bit more prominent. A rather fresh one sits just above her right brow. She may have aged some from the last time any had seen her, but she certainly doesn't look as old as she is. Personality: She is typically cold and brash, on the outside anyway. Her overconfident ways have often gotten her in a pinch, but not one that she couldn't ever find her way out of. She never takes the easy way out and has a soft spot for those who have been bullied. Having grown used to the luxuries coin can buy, she would prefer a more lavish lifestyle. Shiny things may distract her from time to time, but it is never to say she had an easy life. Clothing: She typically wears light fabrics, leathers and cloths of darker shades. A large cowl normally covers most of her features. Dark brown leather boots extend up just past her knees, straps and buckles secure padding where would be needed. Plain cloth pants are held up by a thick black belt, lined with a few pouches and oddities. Weapons: Through her training, she has become a jack of all trades. Though her favorite weapon is the battle axe strapped to her back. She has a dagger hidden within her boots and one saddled to her belt at her right hip. The dagger hanging from her belt is a curved blade, with a ruby embedded within the hilt. Skills and Abilities: Part of the reason why the witches wanted to do away with her because she did not have the affinity for magic as they did. However her time in the Assassin’s Keep allowed her to develop other skills and techniques: Shadow Prison: Isabeau is able to shadow step to her foe for an attack. During this attack, her foe’s movement speed is drastically reduced temporarily Wild Blow: Isabeau is able to manipulate the shadows around her weapons, increasing the damage done by her attacks. The attack is usually used when attempting to sunder a shield. Wildfire: Despite not having the understanding of the weave, as the witches did, Isabeau was bestowed with a gift from her mother. The gift of Wildfire. This gift takes an enormous amount of energy to control and wield. When called upon, the shadows immediately surrounding her will ignite and deadly flames will coat her axe, adding fire damage to her attacks. This generally leaves Isabeau quite drained afterwards In her time away from civilization, she has learned to tap into the shadow realm. The more time she spent in the dark reflection of home, the less stable her footing became in each world. She would shift back and forth, sometimes without even meaning to. Magic:N/A -see skills above Backstory: Rumors of long ago, tell a tale of a witch who fell in love with a prince from a far away land. The prince had journeyed far in search of a magical herb that was said to cure a sickness plaguing his kingdom. He came upon a young woman living deep within the woods. Beautiful in every way imaginable, the Prince became enthralled with the young woman and insisted that she leave the woods and return with him to his castle. As tempting as the offer was, she could not leave her home. For she was a witch, just as her mother before her, and so on down the line. Their family and gifts had been banished from the kingdom long ago, and since, they had taken refuge in the forest, tending to the wilds and those who dwell within its sanctuary. Disturbed by the story, the prince vowed that he would speak with his father to lift their exile if she would return with him as his bride. Gleefully, the young woman accepted. And with the prince as her guest, she spent her last few days in the woods saying her goodbyes and making arrangements for after she left. Those last few nights blanketed by the stars, we're magical for her and the prince. Though as the story goes, it was the last shred of happiness for the young couple. Grandmother Amari, the high witch of their clan, had high expectations for the young witch. Plans, that did not include the Prince, that would've been especially ruined if the prince took her away to become a princess in the castle. Though a silver lining appeared that would help Amari's plans along. And so the high witch gathered her kin, and her plot for war went into action. On the eve before the two lovers were to leave for the castle, Amari had one of the youngest within their clan travel to the cottage where the two were staying. She silently crept in, cloaked within the shadows and darkness of the night. With one clean swipe of her blade, she sliced his throat open, and without anyone noticing, made her way back out. He bled out onto the bed next to his beloved, who never stirred, and never realized his death until the next morning. It wasn’t until many months later did they all realize the young witch was with child and when the news had traveled to the High Witch, it was ordered to discard the baby once it was born. The young witch with fire red hair and green eyes encircled with a gold ring would never know her daughter. Isabeau continued to meet only betrayal and despair as she grew older unfortunately. Bred into a world of death and darkness, she was raised within the Keep of the Assassin’s Guild and was honed into the land’s deadliest weapon. She was taught to cast all emotions aside, especially that of love. They told her that love made people weak, love would hold her back, get her killed. And just as they had warned her, love had been her undoing and led her to flee. ~~*~~ Since her departure of Waeldeshore, much has happened ((All to be revealed in rp)). Her reasons for returning are her own, but she has vowed to make things right.
55,673	1,527	9	2,782	1,198	When Regina attempted to touch Ajax's mind, a most curious thing happened to her. Imagine, if you will, a beast of a man grabbing you and lifting you high in the air by your collar. Simply holding all of your weight aloft with an outstretched arm, with such astounding ease that a single thought would immediately form in your mind, the recognition of a simple truth: "This man could kill me with his bare hands". Regina felt the psychic equivalent of this as she attempted to intrude in the mind of one that held much in common with the savage creatures he often slew for a living. It was accompanied with a warning: "Intrusion will not be tolerated". Physically, Ajax simply turned and took stock of the newcomers. Two beastkin, a youngling man at arms, an elf of some type as far as he could tell and the tiny little shit that had tried to pry her way into the privacy of his mind. They all looked the part in some way, at least. He doubted the young one would be of much use but everyone had to start somewhere, so he would give him the benefit of expecting little out of him and hope he would grow into a respectable man. The elf had the feel of a soldier around him as well, disciplined and properly respectful, more he could not tell, and who knew with the beastkin. The puny squirt, however, he did not like. Calling Ajax part of "your team" without doing anything to warrant it, and it would take much for Ajax Diagorides to recognize someone as having any authority over him, was a quick way of getting on his bad side, and trying to show off her powers as if they made her more deserving of any respect or awe just made her seem like a petulant child, desperately seeking attention. Focusing his gaze upon Regina, he looked at her up and down as one does a piece of merchandise, his mouth twisted into an unpleasant, mocking grin. He made a dismissive sound with his mouth. "Heh. Parlor tricks", he said, throwing the mostly eaten drumstick down in her general direction. Before he could say more, however, the door opened behind him and in he went, following the not at all bad looking maid inside. If he felt anything, again he did not express it outwardly, so used was he to attempts on his life and staring down the creatures of the abyss. The inside of the house certainly did not impress him. He missed the beauty and architecture of his homeland and comparisons between the strange lands he wandered and Erimai were often unfavorable in his mind. When he was led to the meeting room, he gave the maid one of those looks before taking a seat, propping his legs up on the table and holding out his still half full wineskin. "I am Ajax Diagorides, I fight for a living and I respect only the strong. But if we are to quest together, we drink together, so in courtesy I offer you what is mine. Don't make me regret it".	Name: Ajax Diagorides Species: Human Age: 40 Description: Ajax is an olive skinned and tanned man who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs around 300 pounds. A thick, muscle bound figure with powerful, sinewy arms and robust legs which end in burly hands and feet and a log-like neck that holds up a head as large as the rest of his body, with a prominent jaw and chin as well as dark brown eyes, short, curly black hair and a thick but not overly long beard, he bears a more than passing resemblance to the real-life Boxer of Quirinal, except far more muscular, with a build closely resembling that of a powerlifter or strongman competitor. Thanks to his less than healthy lifestyle, Ajax is a mess to look at. He is scarred from head to toe, his eyes are sunken, his nose squashed and slightly deviated, he has cauliflower ears and his hands, forearms, elbows, knees, shins and feet are covered in extremely thick and rough calluses, giving them a leathery, bumpy look. Ajax's clothing is a loose white robe called a doric chiton, that he keeps strapped to his left shoulder with a pin and extends past his waist, ending just above the knees. Ajax also wears brown leather, hobnailed, sandal-like boots called caligae. Personality: Ajax is a fairly merry man, fond of living a life full of excitement and action and can be fairly easy to get along with as he is giving, loyal, honest and straightforward, seeing greed, deceit and treachery as marks of weakness. Conversely, he's also kind of nuts. He says what's on his mind no matter the situation, is knowingly offensive to others and enjoys fighting to a mind-boggling degree. Smashing things to bits seems to be his main solution to any problem, too, and he has no qualms in instigating fights or escalating them when a couple words would be enough to defuse a potentially dangerous situation. Ajax has a great distaste for magic and religion and will act rather condescending to anyone who relies overmuch on these, even worse if they try to lord these things over him or otherwise try to make him see their way. It’s not enough to bring him to violence but he sees over-reliance on magic or the intervention of higher forces as a queer path in life. Why credit the gods with your achievements, why rely on some mystic force you can barely comprehend when you could achieve this on the strength of your back? He feels much the same towards those who take their status as nobles as somehow making them intrinsically superior to others. Ajax has a fairly complex world view based on strength, self-reliance and personal growth. He feels the strong come to rule the weak, but that strength isn't limited to physical strength or martial power and that the weak should, in turn, grow strong and strive for greater things in life, never letting themselves be crushed underfoot. He relishes the freedom necessary for such a growth and will readily help others to attain it, just as long as they actually put the effort to grow themselves, though his efforts can come across as him just being rather mean. He is especially harsh towards those who could stand for themselves but don't and expect others to do it for them, believing that over-reliance on others is another path to subjugation. Skills/Abilities: -Herculean: Ajax seems to have been gifted with superhuman physicality. Though his agility and manual dexterity aren’t much to speak of, he is freakishly strong and damn near tireless. His entire body is tremendously difficult to damage and eradicates poisons, toxins and disease with absurd ease. What makes this unique is that Ajax wasn't simply born powerful, but rather that his body adapted to extremely harsh circumstances much faster and better than anyone else. It's something everyone can do. Both muscle and bone adapt to the stresses they're placed under with time, you can exercise specifically to increase your lung capacity, you can get used to extremes of temperature if you live with them long enough, but the thing about Ajax is that his gift allows him to defy normal human limits. Of course, this gift requires a high degree of dedication to constantly test and push his own limits. If he had lived a quiet life, his gift would've gone by unnoticed. His gift also allows him to pit his body against things that should be unaffected by mere brute force, since his body has been cultivated in such an unnatural way. He can pit his might directly against magic such as hold spells and the like, though this doesn't make him immune to magic as a whole, and is resilient towards mind-altering effects from a mixture of sheer willpower and having experienced them previously in his travels. This also extends to attempts to invade his psyche, which meet with as heavy a resistance as if Ajax was fighting the person directly. -Pankration: Ajax is a skilled unarmed fighter, having trained to fight most of his life and having survived a number of ordeals through fighting skill alone. His fighting style is known in his homeland as Pankration, loosely translated as "all of might", and was originally a blend of boxing and wrestling with no rules beyond no biting or eye-gouging before more and more skills were added to its repertoire. Ajax is a particularly skilled grappler, adept at using his strength and size to his advantage, but knows how to supplement it with effective striking and has a proper grasp of the fundamentals of fighting beyond sheer strength. Backstory: Ajax descends from a long line of athletes, from the faraway land of Erimai. His father, Diagoras, was an accomplished wrestler trained by his father as was tradition within the family and celebrated in his homeland for his many victories in legitimate sporting events. Diagoras, in turn, upheld the custom and trained Ajax from an early age, and the young man soon grew into a grappler of considerable skill himself. However before Ajax could make his debut in an official event, Diagoras was murdered, the killer managing to evade the law. With the aid of family friends, many of which held connections with the fighting underworld, Ajax eventually discovered that his father's death was orchestrated by Diagoras' supposed benefactor, Magistrate Cleon, because Diagoras had won a fight he was asked to throw. Enraged, Ajax sought Cleon out to murder him with his own two hands but was subsequently defeated, bested by foul sorceries and the attack of a demonically powerful fighter in Cleon's employ, known only as Hyperanthes. He was captured and his family subjected to great shame. Publicly tried for attempting to murder a magistrate, Ajax was to be sentenced to death by poisoning before Cleon intervened, demanding Ajax be sold to him as a slave as reparation, a demand that was granted. It was then that Ajax's fighting career truly began, as the magistrate entered him in brutal underground contests, rule-less deathmatches for the enjoyment of select crowds. Fighting for survival with neither weapons nor armor, Ajax overcame all odds with his continued survival and spectacular progress, eventually becoming the circuit's most celebrated champion. Only one thought kept him from despair: revenge. As time passed Ajax befriended a few of the other fighters and together they planned an escape. A hole in security, an opportune bribe carried out by acquaintances on the outside and superior combat skills were all that was needed, and soon the fighters were free. Knowing he'd be hunted down, Ajax decided to flee the country without involving anyone else, sneaking into a random merchant ship leaving the island which was first dragged around, then smashed to bits by a typhoon. The lone survivor, Ajax drifted aimlessly in a damaged raft until he arrived to a strange foreign land. So began his career as a travelling adventurer. Never settling in a single place for long, always moving, always fighting to become ever stronger, looking to return to his homeland. The only problem is, no ship seems to know how to get there and by this point he has boarded about a dozen random ships with no clue where exactly they were going, so he is well and truly lost in this regard. His homeland could be on the exact opposite of creation for all he knows. He has, however, come to find great enjoyment in his life and while he still seeks his home, he is content with facing life on a day to day basis, taking on new adventures as they come. It is not uncommon to find him as a strongman for hire, and tales are sometimes told of the strange, massive foreigner carrying neither weapons nor armor who clears out monster dens or bandit camps seemingly for the challenge of it. Enticing him to take part of a new adventure should be a simple matter. Other: I always though it was pretty boring how the badass fisticuffs class is always some type of asian stereotype built to be dodgy rather than a frontline manly man so think of Ajax as a Fighter rather than a Monk, speaking in class terms, except with less reliance on being given decent gear and magical buffs. He's the guy that stands at the front of the line, gets the crap kicked out of him and keeps going, and can deal some good damage especially in one on one fights. He's actually a prior character of mine, a Fighter in Dungeon World which lets you use gauntlets as your weapon type thanks to its narrative focus.
55,674	1,527	10	276	729	Regina looked around and frowned as she caught the meat with her telekinesis. Looking at Ajax, she sighed. "Psionic block. Interesting. Is that you or an item on you?" When the door opened, she tossed the leg and dropped to the ground to walk inside. Looking around, she admired the house, taking in many of the smaller details she didn't think many of the others would pick up on. When the maid said the master of the house would be with them soon, Regina began floating again. "So, how have you been these last 25 years?" she asked Ionathan with a small smile. She knew it was only small talk but it shouldn't last too long. She floated up next to him, staying at his eye level. Her mind was still open, trying to see the surface thoughts of everyone in the group except Ajax as his mind was blocked. She focused mostly on the beast person, more through curiosity than anything else. She reminded her of one of the men she had met in Waeldeshore though she hadn't seen him since before the dragon.	Name: Regina Hills Species: Halfling Age: 57 Description: Regina is a bit tall for a halfling, a whole six inches taller than the average of 3 feet, with long, reddish brown hair and chocolatey brown eyes. She has a pale complexion and a few small wrinkles, preferring to stay in the shade, and a thin but curvy figure that is slowly catching up with her age. Regina wears a thin layer of leather armor over her clothes with multiple daggers hidden on her and a pair of longtooth daggers on her hips. Regina carries no less than 20 throwing daggers, 10 normal daggers and a pair of longtooth daggers on her at any time. Personality: Regina is the type of woman to flirt with some of the younger women though nothing too far as she doesn't want to be left again. She's easy to anger if you say the wrong thing. However, she does keep her anger under control while at work. She's no longer the happy-go-lucky woman she once was, instead taking everything carefully and not letting anyone close again. Skills/Abilities: Regina has great aim with her throwing daggers and is proficient with her normal daggers to block and redirect, allowing her to use her longtooth daggers, with their little extra length, to attack. She can also pick locks, pick pockets, find and remove traps, track people, most any skill a thief would find very helpful. Other than that, she is an excellent with her psionic powers, allowing her to do many things most people cannot. -Combat Mind: Using this, she has a clear understanding of where her allies and enemies are. -Telekinesis: She can levitate most objects though nothing bigger than a small human male for more than a couple minutes. -Levitation: She can lift herself up to 12 feet from whatever she's standing on. -Complete Healing: With a 12-hour meditation process, she can heal herself of all injuries, illnesses, poisons and the like. -Quick Healing: With a matter of a few minutes and a lot of concentration, she can heal her small injuries, though nothing bigger than a small cut. -Adrenaline Control: By controlling the production and release of adrenaline in her system, she can give herself a temporary physical boost on demand. -Body Weaponry: Using this, she can turn her hands into dagger blades or go as far as her elbow for a shortsword blade. -Displacement: She can control where people see her, whether or not she moves. -Teleport: With this, she can teleport up to 200 feet away in the blink of an eye, with loud popping sounds emitting from both the place she teleports from and to. -Telepathy: Using this, she is able to communicate wordlessly with another intelligent being without having to worry about language barriers. -Daydream: She can cause another person's mind to wander, allowing her to pick their pockets and get away safely with a lower chance of getting caught. Magic: She has no magic though some have commented her psionics are similar. Backstory: Regina was raised in a big halfling city, well as big a city as the halflings would build, with her numerous siblings. The only way she could stand out in her family enough to be remembered was the fact that, at a young age, she could make apples fly to her hand. She had practically never spent any time at home once she was old enough and had gotten caught picking locks and grabbing an apple for a snack. She had eventually decided, after nearly having her hand chopped off for the thousandth time, to leave the city and find a better life. She soon was found by a thieves' guild that took her in and began training her. She spent the next 15 years in the guild, training as hard as she could to get faster and stronger though her strength didn't improve by much. They found out about her psionic skills rather quickly and, being only the second psionic in the guild, learned from an older man who taught her how to teleport, heal small wounds, levitate items other than apples, such as herself, and so on. After her training was finished, she began traveling again, ending up in Waeldeshore. It was there she met a group that was going to be fighting a dragon. She decided to join them, supplying the team with a lot of jerky during their travel to the cave. They ended up stealing a magic artifact from a sleeping dragon, one of two in that particular cave and escaping rather quickly. Upon arriving back at the town, most of them decided to spend the night. Regina offered to share a room with one of the more beautiful, yet still a bit scary, women on the team. When she awoke, however, she saw her ally was gone. She had searched for days but the trail was cold and she couldn't follow what she couldn't find. Instead, she decided to go east. She went far east, ending up in a land much different than what she was used to a year later. It was there she met another halfling woman, a bard who instantly captured her heart. She traveled with the bard, acting as her bodyguard for a decade and a half until she was injured badly. She was unconscious for days as she slowly healed herself from nearly dying but, when she awoke, the bard was gone. She asked around but nobody had seen the halfling bard around in days. She had been abandoned again. With nothing else to do, she returned to the west. It took 4 years to travel back, as she had done other jobs along the way to distract her, but she eventually returned to Wealdeshore. With not much else to do, she became a guard for one of the local pubs. It's been 5 years since her return and, in that time, she's proven to be a great asset as well as a new resident for the foreseeable future.
55,675	1,527	11	2,620	2,551	A small crowd had gathered by the door before Emil had realized it. Along with the large brawny man were a pair of beastkin- the feline one in particular made Emil suddenly tense up. His heart jumped in his chest for a moment, and his hand reflexively twitched for a moment before he realized that she was part of the forming group as well and began to relax. There was a small halfling as well. Well, actually, a tall halfling- quite possibly towering over most other halflings in fact. She quickly and confidently introduced herself, and proceeded to float herself off the ground, which filled Emil with a sense of unease- he was suspicious of magic, as most born in his generation were. The brawny man didn't seem particularly pleased by the halfling either, calling her levitation a 'parlor trick'. The last man to approach their group was actually one that Emil recognized before he introduced himself: Ionathan of the Hepburnberg family, the Commissioner of Justice of neighboring the neighboring town of Waeldeshore, and one of the most well respected guardsmen in Waeldeshore. As a result, he was also relatively well known in Edessa, and a young lady of the Hepburnberg family often visited the kingdom as an ambassador to ensure fruitful trade relations between the two nations. Ionathan was also known as one of the heroes of Waeldeshore. Upon realizing this, Emil shot a glance back at the halfling- her seeming ease and familiarity with the setting, and her assumption of the rest of the group being her 'team' implied... Emil's thoughts were dashed away as the door suddenly opened, and a young woman behind it welcoming them. She was a pretty thing, not breathtaking, and a bit plain, but comely and pleasant. As she led the group inside, Emil followed, pausing at the threshold. He glanced over his shoulder, and then over the other. He felt a sensation of unease, but quickly shook his head and followed the others inside- he was already clearly the youngest of the gathered persons here, and he didn't want to appear as inept as they probably thought he was. Besides, it was probably just the unfamiliarity of this place. The maid led them to a sort of dining/gathering/hall type room, with a large table and chairs for the group to take seat in. Introductions appeared to resume here. It was at this point where the halfling began making small talk with Sir Hepburnberg, which confirmed Emil's suspicions. Taking a seat, the large brawny man made himself comfortable and introduced himself as Ajax Diagorides, and held his wineskin up as an offering to the others. The man had a peculiar name, to say the least- and now that he was illuminated by the light of numerous chandeliers and candles, it was clear that the man was from nowhere near here- from the thick curls of his hair, to the peculiar, slightly darker color of his skin, in a way that was more than just exposure to the sun. Emil decided to introduce himself next, and stood to attention, same as Ionathan had done, and clapped a hand over his chest, dipping his head down in a different, but recognizable salute. "Emil Erran of Edessa," he said calmly, his voice was softer than one would expect, warmer and lacking the bite of a typical military man's bark, but at the same time not lacking in confidence. "I am a Knight of Edessa and have experience with field medical care." He eyed the foreign man's wineskin for a split-second, unsure if he should take the drink or not- more specifically unsure if the man would welcome him to take a drink. However, Emil had no wish to appear haughty or discourteous and took the man's outstreched wineskin, lifting it up to take a sip. Returning it to the brawny fighter, Emil thanked him. "I hope to be of use." he finished, as he took a seat at the table as well.	Name: Emil Erran Species: Human Age: 18 Description: Emil is a young man standing in at about 5'10" in height, with the build of an athlete- or at least one used to continuous physical exertion. While not the pinnacle of strength and endurance, Emil is in good fighting shape, and his body is sinewy and lithe. He has a few scars on his body- though none of them are from combat. His eyes are a deep green, and his blonde hair is typically short and out of the way. His typical attire is a deep blue tunic, with thick trousers, and well worn leather boots and gloves. In combat, he wears a cuirass to protect his upper chest, while still allowing him full range of motion while mounted, reinforced with tough leather, along with armor on his boots, sides, shoulders and forearms. Personality: Warm and kind-hearted, Emil is a modest young knight with a strong sense of morality and justice. This level headed knight tries his best to stay brave and rational in the face of hardship and adversity, despite his inexperience. Due to his young age, Emil is rather impressionable, and expresses a desire to learn various skills and tricks from the older veterans, though is often self conscious about his lesser skills when compared to that of the more experienced members of the group. Honest and trustworthy, Emil is compassionate and kind, if a little shy and soft-spoken. Loyal to a fault, Emil is more than willing to risk himself for the sake of others, and goes to great lengths to defend his loved ones. A very down to earth and grounded individual, Emil's calm and generally positive demeanor, while occasionally bordering on naivety, bolsters the spirits of those around him. Skills/Abilities: As a young Knight, Emil is well trained in multiple martial skills, but lacks field experience. He has fought alongside his lord-knight, while still a squire and is no stranger to battle, but is not what one would call a veteran. While young, and not as capable of an armsman as the rest of his older peers, Emil possesses worldly knowledge and skills unexpected from one his age, and is knowledgeable of a variety of skills in various fields. --- Martial Skills --- Adept Swordsmanship - As the son of a knight, and a knight himself, Emil has received martial training in various fields, and is capable with many weapons, but shows the most promise with a sword. Skilled enough to face down a common soldier or an untrained fighter and coming out no worse for wear, Emil struggles against more hardened and experienced foes. Journeyman Spearmanship - Along with his swordsmanship, Emil has received training with the spear and lance, though it is clear he shows a preference to the sword. His stance and form are solid, and the spear is by nature, an easy weapon to pick up and use. He lacks the refinement of a master spearman, but can still use it with relative effectiveness. Journeyman Archery - Alongside his other martial skills, Emil has also been trained in the use of the bow and arrow. He is neither particularly fast, nor particularly accurate with the bow, and is for all intents and purposes, average. He does slightly better with a crossbow, and primarily utilizes this skill for hunting. Journeyman Horseback Riding - As a knight, Emil is trained on how to ride a horse, take care of a horse, and fight from a horse, though it is clear that he would prefer to do combat while on the ground. Stamina stemming from his youthfulness allows him to ride for hours without considerable exhaustion. Trained Armor use - Years of training have taught Emil how to quickly don and remove plate armor, and can thus move with more dexterity and quickness than one without training would be able to. He is also well versed on the care of plate armor. Trained Shield use - Several years of training has shown Emil how to properly brace and use a shield to block and deflect blows. As he is not the largest presence on the battlefield, when faced with larger foes, Emil primarily relies on deflecting and sidestepping enemy blows rather than attempting to completely stop or black oncoming attacks --- Trade Skills --- Journeyman Cooking - While not a master chef by any meaning of the word, Emil is resourceful and can cook a variety of meals with what little resources are often available while in the field. Journeyman Surgery/First Aid - Unable to treat wounds via magic, Emil has been trained and is experienced with treating a variety of minor and moderate wounds, and is even capable of some surgery for more serious wounds. These treatments are not magic, and do not mend wounds instantly- nor do they guarantee the successful mending of wounds, but can serve to stave off death until more experienced doctors or healers can provide aid. Journeyman Crafting - From tailoring and needlework, to leather-working, Emil, while not particularly amazing at any craftsman's trade, is skilled enough to make field repairs to clothing and armor. Magic Emil has no skill or control over magic, though it appears that he may have the affinity for magic. He views magic with suspicion and a small amount of fear, and while he has accepted magic as a facet of life, he is still unnerved by it. Backstory: The city of Edessa is a fair sized city-state located along the coast of __(mainland continent neighboring Silver Lily Isles)__. Edessa is a constitutional monarchy led primarily by the King, and a group of senators. It is not a major military power, but is known for its high quality knights and sturdy and reliable trade ships, and also contributed a large portion of its forces Mage-Wars decades ago. Edessa, due to its proximity to the Silver Lily Isles, often trades with the settlements on the Isle, most notably Waeldeshore. Edessa and Waeldeshore have built a rather positive trade relationship over the past two decades, and ships bearing Edessan flags are common in Waeldeshore and vice versa. Emil, youngest son of the Erran family, comes from a long line of Edessan Knights. Emil, like the rest of his brothers were introduced to the lifestyle of a knight at a young age, and were immersed in their culture from the moment he could walk. The son of a Edessan Knight and his wife, Emil and his brothers were well educated at a young age and were taught manners as well as basic martial skills and knowledges as children. Throughout their childhood, Emil and his brothers would often venture into the city to play with other children. Emil made friends easily, and was known for his gentle and sensitive demeanor, while the rest of his brothers were respected for their various other qualities. As they Erran children grew older, they were trained in the ways of various weapons, such as the spear and sword, and were trained in horsemanship and riding. After his seventh birthday, Emil was apprenticed to another noble family to serve as a page, where he would begin to further refine horsemanship and swordsmanship as well as learn the intricacies of reading and writing. A naturally perceptive and relatively intelligent child, Emil was treated well by his host family, and learned much under their tutelage. The Knights of Edessa, or the Edessan Knights as many know them as, are an order of knights based in the city of Edessa. These knights are tasked with serving and protecting the people of Edessa, and often promote humanitarian movements to hunting monsters in the surrounding areas. These stalwart warriors are well known for both their valor and martial skill, despite their relatively small numbers. Every male member of the Erran family had been an Edessan Knight at one point in their life. Emil's brother is among the famed members of the Edessan Knights, and one of the King's personal guards. Each of Emil's brothers has already entered service in the order. As he turned 14, he became squire to a famed Edessan Knight, where he furthered his training, continuing his work on bladesmanship and horsemanship, as well as learning archery, music, speech, and skills befitting a young knight. Here he learned how to take care of, and maintain armor, how to tend horses and treat wounds. The next several years were difficult, his knight was fair, but strict, and offered him nothing but the most difficult challenges to face. Now a fresh 18 years old, Emil's journey to become a full fledged knight of Edessan has been completed, and Emil undertakes his first few journeys as his own knight. A message from the Great Sage Genevieve of Waeldeshore gives Emil his first taste of an adventure that he can call his own. Possessions, Equipment, Weapons: Father's Sword - A gift given to Emil by his father, upon his recent knighting. The sword is forged from Dwarven Steel- a special dwarven metallurgy technique that results in a tougher, denser, more durable steel. The blade is old and worn from use, but still remains a reliable weapon. A shorter than average bastard sword, it is light and maneuverable enough to be held in one hand, but its two handed grip makes it able to be wielded with two. Common Spear - A 6 foot pole of ash wood, with a steel tip attached. One of the most common personal weapons in the world, this weapon is easily used, and easily replaced. Able to be wielded with one hand, but most effective with two. Shortbow & Quiver - A short yew bow meant for hunting. Plain and simple, without any sort of frills, other than leather wrapping around the grip. A wooden and leather quiver contains 20 arrows. Both are typically stored on the outer saddlebags of Emil's horse. Heater Shield - A mid-sized shield with the Erran family coat of arms emblazoned across it. It is a lightweight metal shield that can be strapped to the forearm and secured with the hand. It has a leather strap that allows it to be slung over the shoulder/worn over the back. Edessan Half Plate - a cut down suit of plate armor generally utilized by mounted Edessan knights and soldiers. Plates protect major parts of the body, while the rest of the body is protected with tough leather and mail under a tunic. This is to allow light weight, and greater mobility while mounted. The benefits confer to foot combat as well. Roark, Horse - A well bred, multi-purpose horse ridden by Emil. Roark is a calm, well mannered horse, that doesn't scare easily. Roark wears boiled leather barding(armor) on his face, neck, and body. The barding is lightweight, and can protect Roark from glancing blows but doesn't provide much protection elsewise. Its still better than nothing, Emil argues. Roark also has saddlebags on his sides and behind the saddle. Roark's saddlebags contain: A pair of leather waterskins, a small pouch with money, a tinderbox, lines and tackle for fishing, a small iron bowl for cooking, a small hatchet for wood gathering, a small knife and whetstone, a length of rope (approx. 30 feet), a spool of fine thread and needle, a roll of clean cloth and bottle of spirits for cleaning and treating wounds, a pouch of herbal ointment, a lantern with several spare candles, a few days worth of provisions for Emil as well as his horse. Behind the saddle is a blanket and spare clothes are wrapped in a roll of canvas.
55,676	1,527	12	1,153	95	Upon entering the house Ionathan was presently surprised. The well-lit interior gave the cottage a warm and pleasant feeling. "So, how have you been these last 25 years?" Ionathan realised that he hadn’t kept in contact with any of the other heroes of Waeldeshore, he wondered where they all went. Replying to Regina, Ionathan decided to tell her the most important parts “Settled down, got married, joined the civil service" Ionathan smiled remembering sweet memories of the past. Worrying that Regina might think that he had gone soft, quickly added “But don’t worry, I’ve kept up a good training regime to keep me as fit as I can be" Ionathan said, tapping the pommel of his bastard sword with his free hand. "I am Ajax Diagorides, I fight for a living and I respect only the strong. But if we are to quest together, we drink together, so in courtesy I offer you what is mine. Don't make me regret it". Ionathan turned to face Ajax, it was a rather blunt introduction but Ionathan respected his matter of fact way of introduction. During his experience in the guard, he was called to break up bar fights and do raids against gang hideouts but he had never seen a man as muscled as Ajax. Ionathan wondered if Ajax ever wielded a two handed sword, he could probably split a man in two and wave the blade like a normal man would wave a kitchen knife. When Emil stood to attention Ionathan could not help but smile, it was nice to see that not only was he disciplined but also when he spoke he did so in a calm and orderly fashion, calmness on the battlefield usually the difference between life and death. Ionathan nodded back accepting Emil's introduction. Ionathan’s opinion of Emil rose even further when he said that he was a knight of Edessa, while he had not seen them in action during the war the after action reports of battles were filled with the glorious deeds that they had done and were well respected on the field of battle, when they rode past, you did not stand to attention because of their authority but you did so out of respect. There was a saying in the army when this happened it was called “saluting the man, not the rank” and those knights deserved that privilege. Ionathan chose not to sit down as he assumed that they would only be waiting for a short amount of time. He stood up right and at ease like he did so many times before.	Name: Ionathan Hepburnberg Race: Half-Elf Description: Tall, Honourable,kind-hearted, mid 30s human age appearance. Age: 53 Gender: Male Appearance: Dark Green eyes under black eyebrows and short, black hair. At 6 foot 1 Ionathan is above average height for humans and easily stands out with his sharp, elven like features including elf like ears but more rounded and less pronounced, he has a Light skin colour with a small scar on his right cheekbone Clothing/Armor: A Tabard with the Hepburnberg Coat of arms over a mail shirt with padding underneath. He has a few satchels upon his belt consisting of first aid supplies. Atop his head is a sallet with a padded lether cap underneath. On casual days, Ionathan wears a plain brown tunic. Weapons: Ionathan wields a bastard sword that is usually equiped with his shield that he carries on his back with a Guige when it's not equiped. The shield is a standard heater shield with the Hepburnberg heraldry for a coat of arms. Skills/Abilities: An experience fighter-Ionathan's experience in the army has not left him as he remembers the battles he was in and how to take on opponents of different measure. Discipline and Obedience- As part of his soldier training the iron discipline is still embedded in Ionathan's mind. Ionathan knows basic first aid with some advance understanding of the significance of wounds. Backstory: With a human father and a elven mother Ionathan got to learn about both human and elven cultures from an early age. However, His father was a wealthy landowner so his marriage to an elf was most scandalous, this left Ionathan with a resentment of the nobility and few friends. Ionathan in his childhood and adolescents spent his time reading and received a good education via private tutors. When the war broke out Ionathan had just reached Adulthood and being in a noble family he was enlisted as an officer cadet, Ionathan's training at the officers training camp was harsh but effective, at the start he was like any other who had just reached adult hood, full of energy and always cheerful, but by the end he was a disciplined and skilled officer who acted with knowledge and calculation rather than gut feeling. After The training he was assigned to be a Lieutenant of the 35th regiment of foot where he served throughout the war. The 35th served with valor and duty with their most famous action taking place when a strike force went to strike a supply town near the border and the 35th held the road despite repeated enemy assaults until reinforcements arrived, the officers were personally kissed on the cheeks by the ruling official of the town and were offered the best rooms in the taverns while the regiment was resupplied. After the war Ionathan adopted a girl made orphaned by the war and settled down and bought a cosy 2 bedroomed house in Waeldeshore were he became a guard for the town. Over the years he reflected on his life in the army while growing to like the town and became a respected by his colleagues and the town for his by the book approach to handling situations and his good relation with the Guard Captain. Throughout the years he made sure that his daughter was given the best education he could afford her with his salary, even on the weekends giving lessons himself. He remains in close contact with his parents who visit every month. Ionathan is looking forward to a life of keeping law and order while letting time heal the wounds of war. After the "happening" at Waeldeshore, Ionathan took over the family estate in the countryside and established it as a fine farming estate. The workers being retired soldiers and victims of the happenings, live in accommodation around the estate and although the pay is modest, Ionathan provides food, warmth and shelter for those who have suffered. Ionathan put aside his sword and picked up the pen becoming Commissioner of Justice, reforming the guard into a more professional law enforcement body. Being part of a noble family Ionathan was put through an arranged marriage with was easy to arrange due to the fame he gained in fighting the demons, while the couple are not a "lovey dovey" pair they both love each other dearly and have enjoyed there years of marriage which soon gave them a son. Ionathan’s Adopted daughter was accepted by Ionathan’s wife with open arms and now has become the state ambassador traveling around the world promoting friendship and trade between nations. One day Ionathan received a strange letter from Genevieve calling him to once more take up arms, Ionathan immediately informed his wife of the letter and his intent to leave. Although leaving his wife and child to themselves weighted heavy in Ionathan’s heart, he departed several days later. Alignment- Lawful good
55,677	1,527	13	2,782	1,198	Ajax didn't even bother answering the halfling, he felt it obvious that he had no items on him. He was wearing a loose white robe that hid little of his visage, and had nothing on him that even approached magical. He would've understood it had he been wearing his magnificent champion's belt, but he had lost that years ago. He didn't care that one of the others seemed to know her, he simply wondered how and why he tolerated the nuisance. As for the youth, titles such as knight meant little to Ajax. He'd seen worthy and unworthy both use such a word, with various additions, to describe themselves in a variety of settings. He offered the man at arms a nod of approval as he took his drink before addressing him. "Cubs grow or they die", he stated matter of factly, "we'll see your bite and your future out there. Climb ever higher by your own power, let nothing stop you, crush everything on your way, that's what it means to be strong" he offered as "advice", raising a clenched fist up about face-high. "In short, be like me", he finished with a toothy grin before leaving the wineskin for others to take.	Name: Ajax Diagorides Species: Human Age: 40 Description: Ajax is an olive skinned and tanned man who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs around 300 pounds. A thick, muscle bound figure with powerful, sinewy arms and robust legs which end in burly hands and feet and a log-like neck that holds up a head as large as the rest of his body, with a prominent jaw and chin as well as dark brown eyes, short, curly black hair and a thick but not overly long beard, he bears a more than passing resemblance to the real-life Boxer of Quirinal, except far more muscular, with a build closely resembling that of a powerlifter or strongman competitor. Thanks to his less than healthy lifestyle, Ajax is a mess to look at. He is scarred from head to toe, his eyes are sunken, his nose squashed and slightly deviated, he has cauliflower ears and his hands, forearms, elbows, knees, shins and feet are covered in extremely thick and rough calluses, giving them a leathery, bumpy look. Ajax's clothing is a loose white robe called a doric chiton, that he keeps strapped to his left shoulder with a pin and extends past his waist, ending just above the knees. Ajax also wears brown leather, hobnailed, sandal-like boots called caligae. Personality: Ajax is a fairly merry man, fond of living a life full of excitement and action and can be fairly easy to get along with as he is giving, loyal, honest and straightforward, seeing greed, deceit and treachery as marks of weakness. Conversely, he's also kind of nuts. He says what's on his mind no matter the situation, is knowingly offensive to others and enjoys fighting to a mind-boggling degree. Smashing things to bits seems to be his main solution to any problem, too, and he has no qualms in instigating fights or escalating them when a couple words would be enough to defuse a potentially dangerous situation. Ajax has a great distaste for magic and religion and will act rather condescending to anyone who relies overmuch on these, even worse if they try to lord these things over him or otherwise try to make him see their way. It’s not enough to bring him to violence but he sees over-reliance on magic or the intervention of higher forces as a queer path in life. Why credit the gods with your achievements, why rely on some mystic force you can barely comprehend when you could achieve this on the strength of your back? He feels much the same towards those who take their status as nobles as somehow making them intrinsically superior to others. Ajax has a fairly complex world view based on strength, self-reliance and personal growth. He feels the strong come to rule the weak, but that strength isn't limited to physical strength or martial power and that the weak should, in turn, grow strong and strive for greater things in life, never letting themselves be crushed underfoot. He relishes the freedom necessary for such a growth and will readily help others to attain it, just as long as they actually put the effort to grow themselves, though his efforts can come across as him just being rather mean. He is especially harsh towards those who could stand for themselves but don't and expect others to do it for them, believing that over-reliance on others is another path to subjugation. Skills/Abilities: -Herculean: Ajax seems to have been gifted with superhuman physicality. Though his agility and manual dexterity aren’t much to speak of, he is freakishly strong and damn near tireless. His entire body is tremendously difficult to damage and eradicates poisons, toxins and disease with absurd ease. What makes this unique is that Ajax wasn't simply born powerful, but rather that his body adapted to extremely harsh circumstances much faster and better than anyone else. It's something everyone can do. Both muscle and bone adapt to the stresses they're placed under with time, you can exercise specifically to increase your lung capacity, you can get used to extremes of temperature if you live with them long enough, but the thing about Ajax is that his gift allows him to defy normal human limits. Of course, this gift requires a high degree of dedication to constantly test and push his own limits. If he had lived a quiet life, his gift would've gone by unnoticed. His gift also allows him to pit his body against things that should be unaffected by mere brute force, since his body has been cultivated in such an unnatural way. He can pit his might directly against magic such as hold spells and the like, though this doesn't make him immune to magic as a whole, and is resilient towards mind-altering effects from a mixture of sheer willpower and having experienced them previously in his travels. This also extends to attempts to invade his psyche, which meet with as heavy a resistance as if Ajax was fighting the person directly. -Pankration: Ajax is a skilled unarmed fighter, having trained to fight most of his life and having survived a number of ordeals through fighting skill alone. His fighting style is known in his homeland as Pankration, loosely translated as "all of might", and was originally a blend of boxing and wrestling with no rules beyond no biting or eye-gouging before more and more skills were added to its repertoire. Ajax is a particularly skilled grappler, adept at using his strength and size to his advantage, but knows how to supplement it with effective striking and has a proper grasp of the fundamentals of fighting beyond sheer strength. Backstory: Ajax descends from a long line of athletes, from the faraway land of Erimai. His father, Diagoras, was an accomplished wrestler trained by his father as was tradition within the family and celebrated in his homeland for his many victories in legitimate sporting events. Diagoras, in turn, upheld the custom and trained Ajax from an early age, and the young man soon grew into a grappler of considerable skill himself. However before Ajax could make his debut in an official event, Diagoras was murdered, the killer managing to evade the law. With the aid of family friends, many of which held connections with the fighting underworld, Ajax eventually discovered that his father's death was orchestrated by Diagoras' supposed benefactor, Magistrate Cleon, because Diagoras had won a fight he was asked to throw. Enraged, Ajax sought Cleon out to murder him with his own two hands but was subsequently defeated, bested by foul sorceries and the attack of a demonically powerful fighter in Cleon's employ, known only as Hyperanthes. He was captured and his family subjected to great shame. Publicly tried for attempting to murder a magistrate, Ajax was to be sentenced to death by poisoning before Cleon intervened, demanding Ajax be sold to him as a slave as reparation, a demand that was granted. It was then that Ajax's fighting career truly began, as the magistrate entered him in brutal underground contests, rule-less deathmatches for the enjoyment of select crowds. Fighting for survival with neither weapons nor armor, Ajax overcame all odds with his continued survival and spectacular progress, eventually becoming the circuit's most celebrated champion. Only one thought kept him from despair: revenge. As time passed Ajax befriended a few of the other fighters and together they planned an escape. A hole in security, an opportune bribe carried out by acquaintances on the outside and superior combat skills were all that was needed, and soon the fighters were free. Knowing he'd be hunted down, Ajax decided to flee the country without involving anyone else, sneaking into a random merchant ship leaving the island which was first dragged around, then smashed to bits by a typhoon. The lone survivor, Ajax drifted aimlessly in a damaged raft until he arrived to a strange foreign land. So began his career as a travelling adventurer. Never settling in a single place for long, always moving, always fighting to become ever stronger, looking to return to his homeland. The only problem is, no ship seems to know how to get there and by this point he has boarded about a dozen random ships with no clue where exactly they were going, so he is well and truly lost in this regard. His homeland could be on the exact opposite of creation for all he knows. He has, however, come to find great enjoyment in his life and while he still seeks his home, he is content with facing life on a day to day basis, taking on new adventures as they come. It is not uncommon to find him as a strongman for hire, and tales are sometimes told of the strange, massive foreigner carrying neither weapons nor armor who clears out monster dens or bandit camps seemingly for the challenge of it. Enticing him to take part of a new adventure should be a simple matter. Other: I always though it was pretty boring how the badass fisticuffs class is always some type of asian stereotype built to be dodgy rather than a frontline manly man so think of Ajax as a Fighter rather than a Monk, speaking in class terms, except with less reliance on being given decent gear and magical buffs. He's the guy that stands at the front of the line, gets the crap kicked out of him and keeps going, and can deal some good damage especially in one on one fights. He's actually a prior character of mine, a Fighter in Dungeon World which lets you use gauntlets as your weapon type thanks to its narrative focus.
55,678	1,527	14	2,426	2,292	The wise eyes narrowed in visible scrutiny as the half-blooded man, a mingling of bloods both elf and human, introduced himself with a practiced partial bow and chested salute. His demeanor was respectable enough, yet more noticeable for its impact that it had upon the younger man who in the future would repeat the gesture, minus the same level of seniority and with a motion of his head included as well. Yet, things changed quickly enough as the idle conversation was interrupted by a rush of footfall then the opening of the door. With a flick of one of her curved ears something unusual washed over her, in an inexplicable interruption. Enough that she angled her strong neck slightly to her shoulder and listened, ignoring the woman and allowing the rest of the collective to advance before she so much as dared take her first step further. Unclear, she had the sensation of being observed - hardly surprising was this, as something was clearly unusual about the circumstance as a whole and someone, something taking interest in it was to be expected. Whatever power, or powers, were at work here they were well beyond mundane. Pressing, she walked quietly past the woman, ducking to avoid striking herself on the door's uppermost frame; her height, at least within the confines of the mortal, civilized world was often almost too large. In her movement, she carried with herself a presence of serene observation. Taking mental notes of all she could observe, particularly that the home was even larger than it appeared outside within. It did little to surprise her at this point, the evidence overwhelming that they were dealing with someone magically inclined, but it was a specific sort of quality; opulent was it all, with its exotic rugs, fine curtains and numerous chandeliers. Taking up the last of the guests, they were led to a large room not far away, furnished with a grand table and a seat clearly intended for the host. "You will stay in here, for now. The master of the house will be with you shortly." The aged beast made no effort to reply. The young servant girl with humbled yet cared for features then excused herself, but that was not what drew attention. It was what she had said and the manner in which she had said it that mattered. Either the master thought themselves of enough authority to command this group of people - all of whom were reasonably dangerous in some way or another - or the servant thought her master of such power. Wizard or not, this collective was the sort who could pose a very grave, very practical threat. Diagorides, or so he introduced himself as, took it upon himself to become comfortable, leaning back in one of the chairs; his introduction was brief, but decisive, the sort of thing a man like him undoubtedly cared for. He offered a partial wineskin, cementing his words with action. The others found themselves about into the room, but the young knight did so introduce himself next, speaking calmly in a metered manner. "Emil Erran of Edessa, I am a Knight of Edessa and have experience with field medical care." Only taking the wineskin out of formality it seemed, he drank, but not before the huntress turned her attention, her entire body shifting toward the halfling who elevated herself from the ground still. There was no actual action that the monster had taken beyond setting her eyes to her in this, just that she seemingly undertook some sort of natural subconscious reaction to the efforts of Regina. In turn, all that could be glimpsed of her mind was smooth concentration - the sort that deflected mental assaults. In fact, it actually now permeated the immediate area in an aura of thoughtless dampening, coating the persons in the fine room with an invisible shroud of mental hardness. It was always there before, an underlying calm that came with the felinoid thing, who now calmly removed her robe's hood with her left hand, but it had grown to affect an area around her. The younger man now set himself to one of the chairs, finishing his introduction, to which Diagorides remarked on, raising the drink in further motion following his clenched, solid fist. Were it not made of flesh, he the man and his fist, the veteran was sure he might as well be a walking mountain - no doubt as hard to resist as one. Ionathan, owing to this, seemed to examine the man for a moment in thought, remaining where he was in standing with the halfling at his side. Jowls curving, revealing rows of deadly fangs of which menaced her monstrous nature in full, she spoke again, content that they had made it this far without killing one another, "I am Sakaala." Her voice was unsettling, the sort of sound a woman of regal power would have if interwoven with an underlying growl. Moving calmly to the end of the table near the master's chair, keeping herself intentionally aloof, hand gracing the edge of the fine wooden surface, she examined the entire scene before her. One of her eyes, specifically the right, was visibly blind and graced by a scar while the stillness of her right arm suggested it was in some manner disabled. Her steely breastplate covered only the upper portion of her chest, and for how visibly old she was, her musculature was still remarkable through her tattered hide that was of a greyed sand color. "I am as men call me a 'monster', but I am many things." She said, blinking her beastly eyes in thought as she further unclasped her flame and blade pocked cloak and undid it from about her, no longer hiding and instead allowing it to hang loosely in its typical arrangement. In the process she so revealed that she bore a large bladed sword across her back, of which seemed to cling to her without visible means of attachment; something of elven make, certainly magical.	Name: "Sakaala" Referring to herself as "Sakaala", it is unknown what her name truly is, but there exists reason enough to believe that her assumed name has apparent symbolism, most likely amongst those familiar to her fallen people who placed great value in the meaning of all things, most importantly those belonging to themselves. For those in the know of obscure and arcane cultural history, she is "the finality" or more simply "the last (whole) one", a sobering title that is not only accurate but most disheartening. Species: Monstrous Humanoid The origin and types of monstrous humanoids vary greatly, with some being the product of twisted arcane magic unchecked to others being the work of some divine force. They range from the more "common", as with the minotaur, centaur or harpy, to the more exotic and rare. Sakaala, as well as those who once made up her people, bordered the spectrum of the latter more than the former, being mostly obscure but recorded comparatively well. However, the question of what created a small number of lionmen abroad the realm is unknown, but their kind existed like many monsters before the Age of Mortals, near certainly having an origin many ancient eras past. Only in recent times has this rare bloodline, as with many other unusual beings of similar sorts, all but disappeared after prolonged hunting of "aberrants" by paranoid mortals in the wake of the near successful invasion of the plane. Age: 47 Although longer lived than most mortal men by virtue of unnatural blood, Sakaala is no youth and certainly no longer in her prime. In spite of these things, as with her natural relatives, she is a remarkable example of longevity which has been extended yet by dabbling in arcane arts and an incredible will to survive. Description: Sakaala is distinct in just race alone; owing both to her incredible scale among mortal men, at the height of horse of twenty-two hands, and her overtly leonine features of which are only vaguely humanoid in nature and otherwise quite savage. Her dense sand tone hide is badly scarred about the right of her body, bearing some wounds of which were so visibly savage that even magical aid has not wholly righted them, but the most notable being the blindness of her right eye. While no less lame in the right arm than blind in the right eye, almost entirely numb, she retains its use by sense of self alone. Ambidextrous in response because of this weakness, her tendency to shore up vulnerabilities is remarkable. She distinctly conceals the worst of her injuries beneath her partial robe, and outside of the obvious blindness of an eye, her body is in remarkable condition for a female of her growing age, violent history and having bore offspring in previous. While not overtly robust, her musculature is still visible and her strength measurably stronger than many men. Instead of these qualities, she is more remembered for the gold that is the color of her eyes, barring the blindness; they are akin to portals of lingering sadness and fierce resolve - the same lament of failure and animal cry of defiance entwined. Minimalist in her armoring, Sakaala bears a well worn mithral breastplate upon her chest and a matching pauldron and bracer to her weaker arm, ending it in a fingerless leather glove. Beneath her limited armor she dresses in the remnants of an aged arcanist's robe that ends just beneath her sizable bust, rolling it at the shoulder upon the right limb and let loose upon her strong left arm; the formerly black material having faded to a dusted grey. It, like the rest of her regalia, is undoubtedly salvaged from a fallen friend or a fallen foe, becoming both a prize and a memento. Upon her waist fits a wide tribal belt and battered sash keeping rolled, pressed leather leggings that are accompanied by a pair of slender, exotic daggers worn at the thigh about her lower half. While the belt she adorns herself was once common to her kind, they exist now only as prizes in the hands of grim collectors. Worn about her neck hangs a morbid reminder of her enemy's hatred for her people - a collection of fangs and claws - which was most certainly pried from the cold, dead grasp of one of her felled foes of which is accompanied by another, not nearly minor trinket; a decorative necklace of polished black stone upon a humble leather loop adorned with smaller decorative pieces. Not keen to speak of the second of the two pieces of finery, she often counts the poached points of her other necklace. Bearing a true hand-and-a-half elven blade of indeterminate age as her favored weapon, it is uncertain if it were a tool of conflict initially her own or one which she liberated from her would-be killers. Forged of the rare ore mithral, it is polished to an exquisite silvery shine instead of dulled with age about the fine of the blade. Despite its characteristic remarkable lightness and finesse, the weapon is truly designed to be wielded with both hands by its bearer, yet Sakaala's great scale and greater strength allows her to wield it with deadly ease in a single pawed hand. Unnervingly, so much as drawing the blade - let alone swinging it - sets it to ring faintly in a short lived but soft harmonic hum, but more than anything the bite of the sword itself leaves such keen blows that they are almost unsettling to look upon. Personality and Alignment: Neutral Good The benevolent matriarch, her inherently motherly animal nature follows her strongly with the incredible violence, that both magical and mundane, which she is capable of should she or those she considers her own be threatened. Kindly even toward those wary of her, her wrath is not easily provoked, but no threats made against her or those she views as companions are considered just idle. Perhaps unconsciously she tends to the wounded, acquires fresh provisions, and stays awake during watches all to ensure the continued survival of her adoptive company. Aging as she is, she has embraced the role of a vizier and sage, providing great insight and wisdom to those who inquire upon her. No friend of evil and abiding by her own sense of morality, she is best described as an intellectual and spiritual benefactor. Skills/Abilities: Lore Expertise Having lived such a varied and long life has graced Sakaala with many skills, the most notable is her vast knowledge upon matters ranging from historical events to distant locales, from to forces of nature to arcane mysteries. Self taught, her incredible recollection is imperfect and incomplete, but more often than not her acquired lore is relevant. She specializes in the intellectual categories of arcana, history, nature and locales with little greater knowledge on other matters. Martial Adept There are those who achieve martial proficiency through strength of arms alone and then there are those who acquire combat superiority by raw skill. Sakaala's inhuman strength and agility lend well to life lived by the sword, but it is her intuition, intelligence and force of personality that truly make her a deadly foe as she not only understands the principals of conflict, but actively anticipates them with preternatural skill. This so called "blade-magic" is a blend of martial arts, mysticism, and swordplay - at times engaging in impossible feats martial through magic and at others achieved by intense discipline and practice alone. Sakaala makes up for her disabilities by simply being more skillful and magically inclined than most her foes. Bolstering Presence While Sakaala is present, her mere warrior nature supernaturally inspires mental resolve and great courage in the face of fear among herself and allies. Effects that attack the mind are weakened, and attempts to intimidate or cause fear are dampened heavily as the body, emotion, mind, and spirit are made hardened against such effects. Perfect Mind Honed by intense exposure to offensive magic, Sakaala's force of personality provides her immense leverage against mind-affecting effects. The bane of charms, enchantments and illusions, she often rapidly comes to her senses, especially in the heat of battle or when her companions are threatened. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Steel Wind This maneuver involves a sudden turn of the blade that lands an otherwise singular blow against one target to also connect with another. A difficult attack to employ in the hands of the untrained, its uncanny speed and incredible finesse work are further augmented by Sakaala's ambidexterity, making her a deadly foe against numbers of enemies, especially the lightly armored. This attack is effectively a single attack against multiple targets. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Wall of Blades The agility Sakaala can display for brief periods of time even without her magic is unsettling. With lightning speed, Sakaala can counter a single melee or ranged attack, blocking or deflecting the worst of the blow with her own weapon, even in the worst of scenarios with precognition-like intuition. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Seasoned Ranger A born predator, Sakaala was one of many huntresses of her people, no less acting as a wildlands warrior in times of danger when threatened. Having survived alone from these skills for years, she is an able huntress and would be considered expert in the wilderness, capable of even eluding enemies and striking unexpectedly in natural environments. Of her practical skills, she is a trained gatherer of flora and fauna thus able to provide for herself and others in the ways of naturally provided rations, traditional medicine, pure water and various feats of outdoorsmanship. She is difficult to track when being followed and hardly inhibited by natural terrain. Magic: Channel Spell The ability to cast magical spells and effects is no small wonder even in a world where magic is possibility, but the power to do so while accompanying martial maneuvers is another great feat altogether. Able to channel some of her spells through her natural and weapon attacks, she unleashes devastating blows that inflict a variety of other effects on the victims of the attack. Working in conjunction with her supernatural martial arts, she can perform these abilities often in unexpected ways such as casting a single spell and striking multiple foes with its effects at once. She is not only limited to a small selection of spells to channel a day, but cannot do so extensively without becoming exhausted mentally. Bladeweave A swing of the sword moves with awesome magical grace and almost rhythmic perfection while giving off glints of faint light. Any creature unfortunate enough to be struck might find itself briefly dazed for a moment of hesitation by the fascinating magical swordsmanship exhibited. Creatures that have already been dazed are just as likely to be dazed again, but those resistant to illusions are not likely to be so awed. Combustion A corona of roiling heated air sheathes the blade, leaving waves of intense heat in the wake. A creature or object struck by the weapon discharges the spell, causing the target to instantly ignite in a personal inferno and setting them intensely ablaze for a moment before the magical flames vanish. If hasty or fortunate, a creature can extinguish the lingering non-magical flames left behind - if not careful, they continue to burn with mundane fire until its fuel is exhausted or its air is cut off. Enfeeblement An ominous dark green glimmer envelops the weapon's blade and is discharged upon successful strike, magically debilitating the muscular strength of the victim. Each instance of crippled physical might is additive, and creatures depleted of their strength are temporarily paralyzed and rendered helpless. Their lost strength returns minutes later after the last blow endured. Fatiguing A faint dullness and aura of immaterial grey shrouds the weapon's blade and is discharged upon a successful blow. The so affected creature is overcome by fatigue, slowing its physical strength and reflexes greatly, but most notably leaving it tired and unable to run. The weight of their debilitation is brief, lasting only a few prolonged moments and once the effects wear off, they are no worse for wear because of it. Shocking A scatter of sparks and silent cyan-white lightning shudder about the sword's length, pulling it more accurately toward metal targets. Upon striking, the magical effect discharges with a dull localized clap of thunder and the target is struck by a mighty burst of lightning from the weapon, jarring them. This channeled effect is much more likely to land upon metal targets than those not bearing much metal. True Strike A bearer of a weapon to be imbued takes a brief moment to gain precognative insight into their next attack, greatly increasing its likelihood to land, yet this strength comes at the cost of denying the caster action for a moment. Now enchanted for its next blow, it ignores both magical and practical forms of concealment and seems to find the weakest point in the target's defenses. Once it strikes, the benefit ends and the aura of perfect clarity is gone. Wraithstrike A phantasmal air surrounds the now shimmering blade which is sheathed in ghostly wisps. For a brief moment, it strikes with deathly accuracy, penetrating conventional defenses such as armor or even benefits such as magical deflectiveness, needing only to merely touch the victim to deal its damage in full as though it were a spirit. Upon striking, the effect ends and the weapon returns to its normal qualities. Natural Sorceress As a creature born of magic, the very essence of latent power lies within Sakaala and those that were like her, infused with every ounce of their person. It is from this obscure pool that she draws upon, evoking sorcerous power on whim, but having deeply specialized in doing so; her repertoire of magical spells not vast or complex, but instead practical and martial. She blends the martial arts and swordplay with her magic instead of casting traditional spells by and far, although she can indeed manifest some purely magic effects. Traditionally, few monstrous humanoids are able mages - instead relying upon their natural superiority to combat magical and mundane threats through sheer force and intuition. Sakaala, in spite of these things and the taboos of her now lost society, has taken up arcane power to compensate for her debilitation and growing age. It is known that many mortals are driven mad by arcane power with time, but many monsters seem no worse for wear. As with all sorcerers, Sakaala's magic depletes throughout the day when she expends it. Recovering her inherent energy when she rests for a prolonged time, she relies upon measured application of mystic force so not to expend all of her magic in a short time although she is capable of doing so. Least (0th) Arcane Mark, Amanuensis, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Read Magic, Touch of Fatigue Lesser (1st) Nerveskitter, Shocking Grasp, Truestrike, Ray of Enfeeblement Common (2nd) Combust, Bladeweave, Wraithstrike Great (3rd) Haste, Dispel Magic Arcane Mark A visible or invisible permanent mark of magical enchantment is placed upon the target without causing harm. If placed upon a creature, it fades with time over a month. When invisible, it requires a creature that can see invisibility to notice the mark. Otherwise only an effect that detects magic renders the mark visible, but one must be able to read magic as well to understand its meaning, if it even has one. Amanuensis An invisible force, when provided with text to read and parchment, begins transcribing the mundane words of another work. The force continues to generate the copied text word for word on to the initially blank parchment, skipping any illustrations and magical enchantments it encounters in its work, leaving their locations empty. While it does not translate the writings, should they be in a language not understood, it does continue to copy them until its duration ends or it pauses, awaiting more parchment. Detect Magic The viewer can visually detect magical effects within their line of sight, out to a short distance as glowing radiation. If they wish to concentrate they may separate different auras and determine their strength, and with further concentration attempt to determine the specific spell effect that is active. Powerful magical effects and creatures leave lingering auras, and appear more distinctly upon focus. Dispel Magic A powerful, brief burst of nullifying magic affects a creature or object, or dispels an area instantly of any temporary magical effects and interrupts ongoing ones or those being cast. The dispelling affect always targets the most powerful spells first, then attempts to remove the progressively weaker ones of its target. Against a creature casting a spell, this effect causes the spell to immediately fail to cast. Haste The caster and nearby allies blur with sudden, lightning fast alacrity, moving with intense speed and reflexes. Their attacks become so rapid they are a near blur of motion, and their movement causes them to shimmer with enchanted speed. Striking more accurately and evading more rapidly, this effect lasts only a few intense prolonged moments. Mage Hand An invisible force may manipulate objects through concentration as though it were an extension of its master. Although capable of only lifting light objects, it has the full functionality of a phantasmal hand free of a body, giving it great range of motion. A form of very limited magical psychokinesis, its range is short and it disperses to nothing if it travels far. Message A distant conversation may be held at a whispered tone, sent to a small number of selected creatures. Although each may reply individually, the visibly spoken words are sent to all affected individuals. It bypasses line of sight, limited out to several hundred feet, but is stopped by magical silence, dense metal or stone, or several feet of earth or wood. The words spoken are identical to what is being said and do not transcend language barriers. Nerveskitter An icy rush races through the blood of the affected individual, spurring them to act or react to danger well before they regularly would be capable. Immediate in effect and its casting, it gives the the creature great precognition for but a moment, allowing them to act with greater initiative. Although limited in range out to a short distance, it heightens the senses and reactions greatly for a crucial few seconds. Prestidigitation This effect can generate a wide array of more minor effects, of which are humble yet practical uses of magic. They range from cleaning to dirtying an object, creating minor levitation in small objects, chill or warm slightly, ignite or extinguish mundane flames, create small fragile objects or play ethereal musical notes, and so forth. While it cannot duplicate stronger spells, it perhaps can evoke the illusion of greater magic at play. Read Magic Enabling a reader to explicitly read magically concealed text, it can be used to translate runes, scrolls, symbols and other forms of enchanted text. It does not invoke any latent magical effect of the writing, but it allows the reader to no longer require the ability to read that enchanted text through magic, giving them inherent understanding of it. Backstory: Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary By "The Mage", quoted from "Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary", Chapter VI "On the Subject of Sakaala" "Hunter, warrior, arcanist - over the span of a lifetime one has many varied roles that they might confront, but few ever live them so fully as to explore them in their entirety. She however, has. Undeniably left with the signs of terrible wounds past, most notably the blindness of her right eye and blatant lameness of the right arm, she has endured trials no one, be them man or beast, should be forced to confront alone. Born an exceptional huntress but appointed a warrior, she served loyally on behalf of her scarce peoples, keeping grim threats beyond, those we do not suffer, at bay. Although she, as with select others among her lot, served admirably on behalf man, not all men were so approving. It was in this she was forced to fight to the last beside those who had become her sisters on an ever losing front, but for all of her skill even she too was felled. She too has felt the bite of defeat... all the more memorable than that of victory. She does not speak to us about what became of her children, but when you look upon her eyes you see that same hurt of someone with nothing left to her in this world. It is for these reasons she turned to things most men believe left better unknown - the arcane. For one reason or another, perhaps because she is not of mortal stock, she has acquired the capacity to wield this mystic thing as any other weapon. She has made her body, and even her blade, its conduit. It is all almost a direct extension of herself, the way in which she flows like graceful death both natural and magical; the manner in which she ably adapts her styles, be them as subtle as her favored hand to the placement of her feet, even in her age. I wonder if she is truly satisfied now, watching over us like our matriarch - some relic of a dead people - blessing us with kindness we cannot possibly repay. After all, what could we offer her? We are but mere men; arrogant, brash, foolish and young. What really drives her to aid us in the heat of conflict or tend to our wounds thereafter? A motherhood she still lives vicariously? Whatever the reason, she has more than earned my faith in her; my admiration for her."
55,679	1,527	15	37	1,038	Maru stood at the back of the growing congregation, her large ears pressed backwards in distaste to the halfling prying at her mind, not that the small being would gain much by it, Maru's mind was almost always calm, and if one were to venture into the depths it would be like a forest with the sunlight filtering through, a calm stream flowing off to one side, almost enchanting, enticing. Maru didn't think much of the others, she eyed the feline beast respectfully, knowing that with time her opinion toward the other beast would either improve or be reduced to sheer rivalry, Maru hoped for improvement but didn't count on it as she moved inside the house, her instincts picking up on the sensation, her hair along her neck rising and her ears twisting around the catch any sound relating to the feeling, having paused she didn't dismiss the feeling but walked onwards cautiously, her hand on the hilt of her sword as she followed after the group. Maru didn't do well with chairs so she chose to stand, arms crossed and head tilted forward almost as if she was brandishing her antlers to ward off any prying eyes, she listened to the others talk and chose to stay silent, to observe was what she was best at.	Name: Maru Fauna Species: Deer Faun Age: 67 Description: Personality: Maru is laid back and relaxed, she's kind, caring and immensely dedicated. When put into a situation she doesn't like or becomes upset and angry she can become agitated, constantly dancing about nervously or angerly. She rarely becomes angry and it's even more rare for her to become hostile. Skills/Abilities: Maru is a skilled tracker and hunter, she can be quite silent for someone with hooves, she's well adept at reading the emotions of others, this stems from watching animals to understand them. Maru is exceptional at using a bow and less exceptional at using a sword. Magic: (If your character possesses magical or supernatural abilities, please describe them here in detail. There are many different methods of spellcasting in the fantasy genre, I've described the 'weave' to some and have also left a link for the forgotten realms link if anyone is interested. Please make sure to describe the source of your character's magical abilities, whether it be their own internal "mana", magical runes, alchemical ingredients, wands, spellbooks, artifacts, talismans, or some contract with a deity or spirit (these are just a few examples). Certain magical abilities are generally considered off-limits for the sake of balance, such as time manipulation, teleportation, invincibility and total mind control. You can include a spell list, but this is not by any means required and you may take a more general approach to this description if you wish.) N/A Backstory: Maru grew up with her tribe deep in the jungle, they kept apart from humanity, often moving around the wood so they'd never get caught in one place. Maru was a skilled archer, the best in the tribe as they were taught since they were very little to draw a bow, she was the tribes best scout for year's, she'd been in line to become the next leader until the elders appointed a tall muscular male to take the dying leaders place, Maru, feeling there was nothing left to gain decided to leave, she took her bow, a quiver of hand crafted arrows and left. Venturing out of the jungle she'd spent her entire life in she was greeted by the harshness of civilization, she quickly learned how to deal with the other races, having to become more aggressive than probably any Deer Faun alive, she became an apprentice at a blacksmith and was taught how to wield a sword, the blacksmith had been an expert swordsman year's before when he was a young man, Maru had shown peeked interest in all the swords he'd collected and hung around the shop, she'd asked if he would teach her how to wield one. The smithy taught her how to hold it, thrust, par and counter with the blade. The old man decided that with her height and agility the katana was her better option and she found it easier to wield. She practiced every day for over five years, becoming close and confident with the blade she made. After several years of making blades and practicing with her own she left, became a mercenary, she had a keen taste in jewelry, it was common for her to be seen with rings on her antlers. Maru worked best alone whether it was delivery, blacksmithing or farming. She was restless staying in one place. Lore: The Deer Faun is a half human–half Deer (from the head to the waist being human, but with the addition of antlers) The deer faun is taller than the normal faun, the males standing an average of six foot five and the females six foot, they have large antlers rather than small goat horns. Their tail is like that of a white tail deer and their ears larger and more fluffy. They are native to the deep jungles, living off the land and preferring to hide from humanity rather than embrace it. They are trained to fight with bows as their only defensive measure, they're not hostile preferring to run and hide deep in the wood rather than face conflict. The deer Faun have a natural affinity to understand animals, not through words but expressions, the flick of an ear, the lash of a tail, etc. It isn't unheard of for a Deer Faun to leave it's tribe and seek out the riches of humanity, the tribe will disown the offender and cast them away if they ever try to return.
55,680	1,527	16	276	729	Regina laughed with a nod before reaching to pat Ionathan's shoulder. "Still a whelp compared to most of the others on our group back then." She meant it playfully and hoped her old ally would take it that way, as well as the boy who seemed to be content with metaphorically following in Ionathan's footsteps. She listened to the rest of the introductions with a nod and a smile to each of them. She had to cut off her thoughts with the beauty of the bestial humanoid lioness. And the cute deer faun. Turning to the rest of the group, she smiled big and friendly. "Regina Hills, Psionisist Stealther. If you've felt something strange in your mind, that was probably me." Everyone who didn't have a block up would be able to feel her presence leaving their minds. "And I think I will take some of your wine, friend," she smirked, floating it towards her. Turning back to Ionathan, she tilted her head. "Do you remember Siegfried?" She took a drink of the beverage with a nod before floating it back to its owner's hand. "Big guy with the birthmark on his forehead and the strange scar on his shoulder."	Name: Regina Hills Species: Halfling Age: 57 Description: Regina is a bit tall for a halfling, a whole six inches taller than the average of 3 feet, with long, reddish brown hair and chocolatey brown eyes. She has a pale complexion and a few small wrinkles, preferring to stay in the shade, and a thin but curvy figure that is slowly catching up with her age. Regina wears a thin layer of leather armor over her clothes with multiple daggers hidden on her and a pair of longtooth daggers on her hips. Regina carries no less than 20 throwing daggers, 10 normal daggers and a pair of longtooth daggers on her at any time. Personality: Regina is the type of woman to flirt with some of the younger women though nothing too far as she doesn't want to be left again. She's easy to anger if you say the wrong thing. However, she does keep her anger under control while at work. She's no longer the happy-go-lucky woman she once was, instead taking everything carefully and not letting anyone close again. Skills/Abilities: Regina has great aim with her throwing daggers and is proficient with her normal daggers to block and redirect, allowing her to use her longtooth daggers, with their little extra length, to attack. She can also pick locks, pick pockets, find and remove traps, track people, most any skill a thief would find very helpful. Other than that, she is an excellent with her psionic powers, allowing her to do many things most people cannot. -Combat Mind: Using this, she has a clear understanding of where her allies and enemies are. -Telekinesis: She can levitate most objects though nothing bigger than a small human male for more than a couple minutes. -Levitation: She can lift herself up to 12 feet from whatever she's standing on. -Complete Healing: With a 12-hour meditation process, she can heal herself of all injuries, illnesses, poisons and the like. -Quick Healing: With a matter of a few minutes and a lot of concentration, she can heal her small injuries, though nothing bigger than a small cut. -Adrenaline Control: By controlling the production and release of adrenaline in her system, she can give herself a temporary physical boost on demand. -Body Weaponry: Using this, she can turn her hands into dagger blades or go as far as her elbow for a shortsword blade. -Displacement: She can control where people see her, whether or not she moves. -Teleport: With this, she can teleport up to 200 feet away in the blink of an eye, with loud popping sounds emitting from both the place she teleports from and to. -Telepathy: Using this, she is able to communicate wordlessly with another intelligent being without having to worry about language barriers. -Daydream: She can cause another person's mind to wander, allowing her to pick their pockets and get away safely with a lower chance of getting caught. Magic: She has no magic though some have commented her psionics are similar. Backstory: Regina was raised in a big halfling city, well as big a city as the halflings would build, with her numerous siblings. The only way she could stand out in her family enough to be remembered was the fact that, at a young age, she could make apples fly to her hand. She had practically never spent any time at home once she was old enough and had gotten caught picking locks and grabbing an apple for a snack. She had eventually decided, after nearly having her hand chopped off for the thousandth time, to leave the city and find a better life. She soon was found by a thieves' guild that took her in and began training her. She spent the next 15 years in the guild, training as hard as she could to get faster and stronger though her strength didn't improve by much. They found out about her psionic skills rather quickly and, being only the second psionic in the guild, learned from an older man who taught her how to teleport, heal small wounds, levitate items other than apples, such as herself, and so on. After her training was finished, she began traveling again, ending up in Waeldeshore. It was there she met a group that was going to be fighting a dragon. She decided to join them, supplying the team with a lot of jerky during their travel to the cave. They ended up stealing a magic artifact from a sleeping dragon, one of two in that particular cave and escaping rather quickly. Upon arriving back at the town, most of them decided to spend the night. Regina offered to share a room with one of the more beautiful, yet still a bit scary, women on the team. When she awoke, however, she saw her ally was gone. She had searched for days but the trail was cold and she couldn't follow what she couldn't find. Instead, she decided to go east. She went far east, ending up in a land much different than what she was used to a year later. It was there she met another halfling woman, a bard who instantly captured her heart. She traveled with the bard, acting as her bodyguard for a decade and a half until she was injured badly. She was unconscious for days as she slowly healed herself from nearly dying but, when she awoke, the bard was gone. She asked around but nobody had seen the halfling bard around in days. She had been abandoned again. With nothing else to do, she returned to the west. It took 4 years to travel back, as she had done other jobs along the way to distract her, but she eventually returned to Wealdeshore. With not much else to do, she became a guard for one of the local pubs. It's been 5 years since her return and, in that time, she's proven to be a great asset as well as a new resident for the foreseeable future.
55,681	1,527	17	1,054	1,812	The rogue grumbled and grunted. The sage was not making this easy for her. Deep down, she knew it may come to this but ... All those people. How could she sacrifice their lives like that? She had to inform the magi. Slithering in the shadows, she removed herself from the rooftop nearby. Once again, she was just another member of the bustling crowd. Just another citizen of this pitiful village, so far beyond the grasp of evil. Unfortunately her duties took her right back into its clutch. "Look left, look right, look behind and twice over" she twitched, a paranoid look about her as she made her way to safety. There was a cave, north of the village, her contact would be waiting for her there. As long as she survived the trek. You see, the years had been cruel on this one. She had played in the shadows so long, they started to consume her. She would lose herself in their realm for entire days, even weeks at a time. And it started to corrode her body and mind. Sometimes she would slip into the shadow realm, without even meaning to. It took her half a day, but she had finally made it. Exhausted, she dropped her weight on a rock, large and shaped like a seat, just at the mouth of the cave. She knew he was near, she could smell the magic around him. A side effect. "She's gathered a group, large and powerful at that. She knows we have it. She will make us the enemy and have them hunt us like dogs." Her voice was raspy and tired and she stared out in front of her, as if she could see the happenings of the small town play out. She paused, as if expecting him to respond. A silhouette appeared behind her, seeming to almost walk out of the shadows before standing besides her, revealed to be an older man with a short grey beard and dark brown eyes, covered in a dark blue robe covered in small runes. "Then we must gain the upper hand before they can." a deep, tired voice came from under the figure's cloak. "I have met with my order's council, and at the least, we are not alone in our concerns." He pulled out of a robe pocket a small yellow talisman. "This should help against the Sage. Although as for the group she has gathered, I cannot say how effective this will be. Still, we may be able to finish things without too much trouble from whatever group she has put together... unless they too pose a threat too great to ignore." She didn't even have to turn and look at what he held, she could feel the negative energy coming from the talisman. "Are you sure that isn't too dangerous to use. There are some amongst this group, some who I know - who I've fought beside once before. They are the innocent ones in this. I do not wish them harmed." The talisman had an effect on her. It was strange, she felt .. grounded. It was intoxicating actually, to not feel as if she had one foot constantly slipping into the shadow realm. Grounded, yes. It was the perfect word, and it was what lured her eyes to steal a glance at the yellow gem. "What is that?" she whispered softly, more so to herself than a question posed to be answered. "It will be suitable. The only collateral if it is used will be who seek to stop it from completing its work." The man put the talisman back in his pocket. "For now, you had best watch and see what happens. I will prepare for when the time is right." "..Completing it's work? You make it seem as if ..." whatever effect it was having on her suddenly ceased as the object was put away. She grumbled something. She felt used. And she was no one's puppet. But, she was dealing with forces she barely knew anything about. At this point, she had no choice. "Very well." she said reluctantly. "Is there anything else you would have of me .. while I just wait around and watch", her tone was dry, marked with bits of frustration. Just as dryly, he replied "Nothing comes to mind." He turned and walked back into the cave, blending in with the shadows, with little more than his magical presence to indicate he was still present within. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Genevieve had spent all morning preparing spells, taking every precaution she felt she had to. She was sure the sneak would show herself, or at the very least, would attempt to spy on their meeting. Everything had been set, so if she couldn't catch the thief, she would at least make sure to steal back what was stolen. The group had finally been assembled. She clenched a hand in anticipation, a small grin slipped over her face. She slowly walked down the stairs, contemplating every step, every word that would be shared this evening. The faces she would come upon, the part she would play in it all. She took a deep breath before walking into the room ... Her brown hair had been braided several times over, and pulled into a tight bun that sat atop her head. Small ringlets of hair draped over her temples as if to fancy up the stubborn strands that just wouldn't stay bound. Her black velvet corset top molded her frame, squeezing in every bit of plumpness that had developed over the years. And her skirt, a beautiful material, shimmered as she moved about, the shade of sunlight dancing through windowpanes as it set for the evening. Her graceful figure moved into the room with purpose. A small, polite smile painted her face with charm and she dipped her head to those gathered in the room. "Thank you all for coming.", her voice was soft and calming. "Though I thought there would be more of you, I'm sure this will do." She moved to the large chair at the end of the table, bracing her hands over the back as she returned her gaze to them. "For those of you who don't know, I am Genevieve, I come from a land quite far from here, and was once part of order of scribes and sages, whose purpose was to rid this world of the evils that plagued it. Some of you may remember me from battles fought on Silver Lily Isle. And while these past twenty five years may have seemed peaceful, I can tell you that we are all in grave danger. I need your help once more, my friends." She glanced around the table, taking in the faces around her, pausing in her plea for a moment. "A while back, just before I left Waeldeshore, something was stolen from me. This item, paired with the artifact that some of you had procured for me, has unspeakable powers, and can greatly aid me in my quest to defeat the evil that still lingers. I have asked you all here to help me get back what was stolen, to help me defeat the evils of this realm."	Name: Isabeau Falkenrath Species: Human/Witchling Age: 52 Description: Having let her hair grow out, her dark auburn locks are typically tied up in a braided bun, several pieces, refusing to be bound, frame her face, complementing an olive skin tone. A grey strand here and there, depicting age. Her eyes are something to behold; light green surrounded by a thin ring of gold. Freckles sprinkle lightly over a smooth face, nearly void of any wrinkles representative of a woman coming into her fifties. She stands at about 5’7” tall, a petite upper body sitting upon wider hips and thick thighs. Not overly muscular though her body is tone. When exposed, displayed on her back are a number of scars, some seeming a bit more prominent. A rather fresh one sits just above her right brow. She may have aged some from the last time any had seen her, but she certainly doesn't look as old as she is. Personality: She is typically cold and brash, on the outside anyway. Her overconfident ways have often gotten her in a pinch, but not one that she couldn't ever find her way out of. She never takes the easy way out and has a soft spot for those who have been bullied. Having grown used to the luxuries coin can buy, she would prefer a more lavish lifestyle. Shiny things may distract her from time to time, but it is never to say she had an easy life. Clothing: She typically wears light fabrics, leathers and cloths of darker shades. A large cowl normally covers most of her features. Dark brown leather boots extend up just past her knees, straps and buckles secure padding where would be needed. Plain cloth pants are held up by a thick black belt, lined with a few pouches and oddities. Weapons: Through her training, she has become a jack of all trades. Though her favorite weapon is the battle axe strapped to her back. She has a dagger hidden within her boots and one saddled to her belt at her right hip. The dagger hanging from her belt is a curved blade, with a ruby embedded within the hilt. Skills and Abilities: Part of the reason why the witches wanted to do away with her because she did not have the affinity for magic as they did. However her time in the Assassin’s Keep allowed her to develop other skills and techniques: Shadow Prison: Isabeau is able to shadow step to her foe for an attack. During this attack, her foe’s movement speed is drastically reduced temporarily Wild Blow: Isabeau is able to manipulate the shadows around her weapons, increasing the damage done by her attacks. The attack is usually used when attempting to sunder a shield. Wildfire: Despite not having the understanding of the weave, as the witches did, Isabeau was bestowed with a gift from her mother. The gift of Wildfire. This gift takes an enormous amount of energy to control and wield. When called upon, the shadows immediately surrounding her will ignite and deadly flames will coat her axe, adding fire damage to her attacks. This generally leaves Isabeau quite drained afterwards In her time away from civilization, she has learned to tap into the shadow realm. The more time she spent in the dark reflection of home, the less stable her footing became in each world. She would shift back and forth, sometimes without even meaning to. Magic:N/A -see skills above Backstory: Rumors of long ago, tell a tale of a witch who fell in love with a prince from a far away land. The prince had journeyed far in search of a magical herb that was said to cure a sickness plaguing his kingdom. He came upon a young woman living deep within the woods. Beautiful in every way imaginable, the Prince became enthralled with the young woman and insisted that she leave the woods and return with him to his castle. As tempting as the offer was, she could not leave her home. For she was a witch, just as her mother before her, and so on down the line. Their family and gifts had been banished from the kingdom long ago, and since, they had taken refuge in the forest, tending to the wilds and those who dwell within its sanctuary. Disturbed by the story, the prince vowed that he would speak with his father to lift their exile if she would return with him as his bride. Gleefully, the young woman accepted. And with the prince as her guest, she spent her last few days in the woods saying her goodbyes and making arrangements for after she left. Those last few nights blanketed by the stars, we're magical for her and the prince. Though as the story goes, it was the last shred of happiness for the young couple. Grandmother Amari, the high witch of their clan, had high expectations for the young witch. Plans, that did not include the Prince, that would've been especially ruined if the prince took her away to become a princess in the castle. Though a silver lining appeared that would help Amari's plans along. And so the high witch gathered her kin, and her plot for war went into action. On the eve before the two lovers were to leave for the castle, Amari had one of the youngest within their clan travel to the cottage where the two were staying. She silently crept in, cloaked within the shadows and darkness of the night. With one clean swipe of her blade, she sliced his throat open, and without anyone noticing, made her way back out. He bled out onto the bed next to his beloved, who never stirred, and never realized his death until the next morning. It wasn’t until many months later did they all realize the young witch was with child and when the news had traveled to the High Witch, it was ordered to discard the baby once it was born. The young witch with fire red hair and green eyes encircled with a gold ring would never know her daughter. Isabeau continued to meet only betrayal and despair as she grew older unfortunately. Bred into a world of death and darkness, she was raised within the Keep of the Assassin’s Guild and was honed into the land’s deadliest weapon. She was taught to cast all emotions aside, especially that of love. They told her that love made people weak, love would hold her back, get her killed. And just as they had warned her, love had been her undoing and led her to flee. ~~*~~ Since her departure of Waeldeshore, much has happened ((All to be revealed in rp)). Her reasons for returning are her own, but she has vowed to make things right.
55,682	1,527	18	2,782	1,198	After that sort of introduction, Ajax couldn't help but chuckle in a dismissive manner. Even if it had been in him to not express his disdain, it was all just too funny after living through what he had. The order of sages and scribes from a distant land, the ancient artifact of unspeakable power, oh please mighty Ajax assist us in our fight against evil for the good of the land, it was all like a typical story. He had lost count of how many useless baubles he had been made to recover under the impression they were mighty artifacts, how many times he'd gone off to fight "the evils of the realm" and wound up clearing a goblin den. "So...", he went, still grinning bemusedly, feet planted firmly on the table, eyeing his new employer up and down in a most indiscreet manner. If she spoke of events 25 years ago then she must be of some age, she took good care of herself. Probably elf blood in her or something of the like, he figured. Sorcery had its ways to keep one young. "You were part of this...order that fought against evil. Why are they not handling this, then? It sounds like just the task for them. And you've yet to say what's in it for us. The thrill of adventure is all well and good but no one should do things for nothing. It's degrading to their skills".	Name: Ajax Diagorides Species: Human Age: 40 Description: Ajax is an olive skinned and tanned man who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs around 300 pounds. A thick, muscle bound figure with powerful, sinewy arms and robust legs which end in burly hands and feet and a log-like neck that holds up a head as large as the rest of his body, with a prominent jaw and chin as well as dark brown eyes, short, curly black hair and a thick but not overly long beard, he bears a more than passing resemblance to the real-life Boxer of Quirinal, except far more muscular, with a build closely resembling that of a powerlifter or strongman competitor. Thanks to his less than healthy lifestyle, Ajax is a mess to look at. He is scarred from head to toe, his eyes are sunken, his nose squashed and slightly deviated, he has cauliflower ears and his hands, forearms, elbows, knees, shins and feet are covered in extremely thick and rough calluses, giving them a leathery, bumpy look. Ajax's clothing is a loose white robe called a doric chiton, that he keeps strapped to his left shoulder with a pin and extends past his waist, ending just above the knees. Ajax also wears brown leather, hobnailed, sandal-like boots called caligae. Personality: Ajax is a fairly merry man, fond of living a life full of excitement and action and can be fairly easy to get along with as he is giving, loyal, honest and straightforward, seeing greed, deceit and treachery as marks of weakness. Conversely, he's also kind of nuts. He says what's on his mind no matter the situation, is knowingly offensive to others and enjoys fighting to a mind-boggling degree. Smashing things to bits seems to be his main solution to any problem, too, and he has no qualms in instigating fights or escalating them when a couple words would be enough to defuse a potentially dangerous situation. Ajax has a great distaste for magic and religion and will act rather condescending to anyone who relies overmuch on these, even worse if they try to lord these things over him or otherwise try to make him see their way. It’s not enough to bring him to violence but he sees over-reliance on magic or the intervention of higher forces as a queer path in life. Why credit the gods with your achievements, why rely on some mystic force you can barely comprehend when you could achieve this on the strength of your back? He feels much the same towards those who take their status as nobles as somehow making them intrinsically superior to others. Ajax has a fairly complex world view based on strength, self-reliance and personal growth. He feels the strong come to rule the weak, but that strength isn't limited to physical strength or martial power and that the weak should, in turn, grow strong and strive for greater things in life, never letting themselves be crushed underfoot. He relishes the freedom necessary for such a growth and will readily help others to attain it, just as long as they actually put the effort to grow themselves, though his efforts can come across as him just being rather mean. He is especially harsh towards those who could stand for themselves but don't and expect others to do it for them, believing that over-reliance on others is another path to subjugation. Skills/Abilities: -Herculean: Ajax seems to have been gifted with superhuman physicality. Though his agility and manual dexterity aren’t much to speak of, he is freakishly strong and damn near tireless. His entire body is tremendously difficult to damage and eradicates poisons, toxins and disease with absurd ease. What makes this unique is that Ajax wasn't simply born powerful, but rather that his body adapted to extremely harsh circumstances much faster and better than anyone else. It's something everyone can do. Both muscle and bone adapt to the stresses they're placed under with time, you can exercise specifically to increase your lung capacity, you can get used to extremes of temperature if you live with them long enough, but the thing about Ajax is that his gift allows him to defy normal human limits. Of course, this gift requires a high degree of dedication to constantly test and push his own limits. If he had lived a quiet life, his gift would've gone by unnoticed. His gift also allows him to pit his body against things that should be unaffected by mere brute force, since his body has been cultivated in such an unnatural way. He can pit his might directly against magic such as hold spells and the like, though this doesn't make him immune to magic as a whole, and is resilient towards mind-altering effects from a mixture of sheer willpower and having experienced them previously in his travels. This also extends to attempts to invade his psyche, which meet with as heavy a resistance as if Ajax was fighting the person directly. -Pankration: Ajax is a skilled unarmed fighter, having trained to fight most of his life and having survived a number of ordeals through fighting skill alone. His fighting style is known in his homeland as Pankration, loosely translated as "all of might", and was originally a blend of boxing and wrestling with no rules beyond no biting or eye-gouging before more and more skills were added to its repertoire. Ajax is a particularly skilled grappler, adept at using his strength and size to his advantage, but knows how to supplement it with effective striking and has a proper grasp of the fundamentals of fighting beyond sheer strength. Backstory: Ajax descends from a long line of athletes, from the faraway land of Erimai. His father, Diagoras, was an accomplished wrestler trained by his father as was tradition within the family and celebrated in his homeland for his many victories in legitimate sporting events. Diagoras, in turn, upheld the custom and trained Ajax from an early age, and the young man soon grew into a grappler of considerable skill himself. However before Ajax could make his debut in an official event, Diagoras was murdered, the killer managing to evade the law. With the aid of family friends, many of which held connections with the fighting underworld, Ajax eventually discovered that his father's death was orchestrated by Diagoras' supposed benefactor, Magistrate Cleon, because Diagoras had won a fight he was asked to throw. Enraged, Ajax sought Cleon out to murder him with his own two hands but was subsequently defeated, bested by foul sorceries and the attack of a demonically powerful fighter in Cleon's employ, known only as Hyperanthes. He was captured and his family subjected to great shame. Publicly tried for attempting to murder a magistrate, Ajax was to be sentenced to death by poisoning before Cleon intervened, demanding Ajax be sold to him as a slave as reparation, a demand that was granted. It was then that Ajax's fighting career truly began, as the magistrate entered him in brutal underground contests, rule-less deathmatches for the enjoyment of select crowds. Fighting for survival with neither weapons nor armor, Ajax overcame all odds with his continued survival and spectacular progress, eventually becoming the circuit's most celebrated champion. Only one thought kept him from despair: revenge. As time passed Ajax befriended a few of the other fighters and together they planned an escape. A hole in security, an opportune bribe carried out by acquaintances on the outside and superior combat skills were all that was needed, and soon the fighters were free. Knowing he'd be hunted down, Ajax decided to flee the country without involving anyone else, sneaking into a random merchant ship leaving the island which was first dragged around, then smashed to bits by a typhoon. The lone survivor, Ajax drifted aimlessly in a damaged raft until he arrived to a strange foreign land. So began his career as a travelling adventurer. Never settling in a single place for long, always moving, always fighting to become ever stronger, looking to return to his homeland. The only problem is, no ship seems to know how to get there and by this point he has boarded about a dozen random ships with no clue where exactly they were going, so he is well and truly lost in this regard. His homeland could be on the exact opposite of creation for all he knows. He has, however, come to find great enjoyment in his life and while he still seeks his home, he is content with facing life on a day to day basis, taking on new adventures as they come. It is not uncommon to find him as a strongman for hire, and tales are sometimes told of the strange, massive foreigner carrying neither weapons nor armor who clears out monster dens or bandit camps seemingly for the challenge of it. Enticing him to take part of a new adventure should be a simple matter. Other: I always though it was pretty boring how the badass fisticuffs class is always some type of asian stereotype built to be dodgy rather than a frontline manly man so think of Ajax as a Fighter rather than a Monk, speaking in class terms, except with less reliance on being given decent gear and magical buffs. He's the guy that stands at the front of the line, gets the crap kicked out of him and keeps going, and can deal some good damage especially in one on one fights. He's actually a prior character of mine, a Fighter in Dungeon World which lets you use gauntlets as your weapon type thanks to its narrative focus.
55,683	1,527	19	2,620	2,551	Emil was at a loss for words, and felt a mixture of unease, awe, wonder, all combined with a slight fluster as the sage entered the room. He didn't quite know what he was expecting- perhaps, an older, plainer, 'sagely' woman perhaps? Unlike the plain prettiness of the maid who had led them in, the sage Genevieve was dressed as opulently and regally as the home she inhabited. Catching himself staring, Emil was quick to lower his eyes, fixating his gaze intently on a knot of wood on the table at which he sat, glad that the orange and shadows of the fire and candlelight masked the flush of his face. It was not that he was unused to women- well, he was, having devoted much of his life to the brotherhood like order of the Edessan Knights and his training, Emil had little time for frivolities; but the women he was used to speaking to were often younger noblesse, as opposed to the rather mature figure of Lady Genevieve. She spoke of events that had occured before Emil was born, further increasing his unease around her, the woman must have been at near twice his age, to be able to actively participates in events that had happened years before he was born. She spoke for a time about her order, and how she was purposed with ridding the world of the evils that inhabited it. She then moved onto her reason for calling them here, to help her retrieve an item that had been stolen from her, an artifact of great power that would aid her in her efforts to destroy evil. Her cause was, as far as causes went, as noble as they came- for what else was the point of causes if not for destroying the evils of the world, whether they be injustice, the preying on the weak, or the malicious monsters of the wildernesses. The large man Ajax, seemed unimpressed, even amused by the request, and replied with questions of his own, as well as a request for compensation. A part of Emil found the man to be rude, brusque, and had half the mind to berate him for making such comments about the sage and her order. Though the other part of Emil admitted that the man Ajax had solid, if not coarse, reasoning behind his statements. The possibility of inciting the man's anger so early on in their probable journey together was also a rather staunch deterrent. Emil was already out of his element, it was best not to cause trouble amongst those whom he would likely be considering allies in the days to come. "What is this artifact, exactly?" Emil added, "What does it do?" Emil was unsure how to proceed- should the accept the quest, how would they find something without knowing what it would appear to them as? Knowing the risks and dangers it posed would also allow their small band to prepare accordingly for whatever challenges they might face.	Name: Emil Erran Species: Human Age: 18 Description: Emil is a young man standing in at about 5'10" in height, with the build of an athlete- or at least one used to continuous physical exertion. While not the pinnacle of strength and endurance, Emil is in good fighting shape, and his body is sinewy and lithe. He has a few scars on his body- though none of them are from combat. His eyes are a deep green, and his blonde hair is typically short and out of the way. His typical attire is a deep blue tunic, with thick trousers, and well worn leather boots and gloves. In combat, he wears a cuirass to protect his upper chest, while still allowing him full range of motion while mounted, reinforced with tough leather, along with armor on his boots, sides, shoulders and forearms. Personality: Warm and kind-hearted, Emil is a modest young knight with a strong sense of morality and justice. This level headed knight tries his best to stay brave and rational in the face of hardship and adversity, despite his inexperience. Due to his young age, Emil is rather impressionable, and expresses a desire to learn various skills and tricks from the older veterans, though is often self conscious about his lesser skills when compared to that of the more experienced members of the group. Honest and trustworthy, Emil is compassionate and kind, if a little shy and soft-spoken. Loyal to a fault, Emil is more than willing to risk himself for the sake of others, and goes to great lengths to defend his loved ones. A very down to earth and grounded individual, Emil's calm and generally positive demeanor, while occasionally bordering on naivety, bolsters the spirits of those around him. Skills/Abilities: As a young Knight, Emil is well trained in multiple martial skills, but lacks field experience. He has fought alongside his lord-knight, while still a squire and is no stranger to battle, but is not what one would call a veteran. While young, and not as capable of an armsman as the rest of his older peers, Emil possesses worldly knowledge and skills unexpected from one his age, and is knowledgeable of a variety of skills in various fields. --- Martial Skills --- Adept Swordsmanship - As the son of a knight, and a knight himself, Emil has received martial training in various fields, and is capable with many weapons, but shows the most promise with a sword. Skilled enough to face down a common soldier or an untrained fighter and coming out no worse for wear, Emil struggles against more hardened and experienced foes. Journeyman Spearmanship - Along with his swordsmanship, Emil has received training with the spear and lance, though it is clear he shows a preference to the sword. His stance and form are solid, and the spear is by nature, an easy weapon to pick up and use. He lacks the refinement of a master spearman, but can still use it with relative effectiveness. Journeyman Archery - Alongside his other martial skills, Emil has also been trained in the use of the bow and arrow. He is neither particularly fast, nor particularly accurate with the bow, and is for all intents and purposes, average. He does slightly better with a crossbow, and primarily utilizes this skill for hunting. Journeyman Horseback Riding - As a knight, Emil is trained on how to ride a horse, take care of a horse, and fight from a horse, though it is clear that he would prefer to do combat while on the ground. Stamina stemming from his youthfulness allows him to ride for hours without considerable exhaustion. Trained Armor use - Years of training have taught Emil how to quickly don and remove plate armor, and can thus move with more dexterity and quickness than one without training would be able to. He is also well versed on the care of plate armor. Trained Shield use - Several years of training has shown Emil how to properly brace and use a shield to block and deflect blows. As he is not the largest presence on the battlefield, when faced with larger foes, Emil primarily relies on deflecting and sidestepping enemy blows rather than attempting to completely stop or black oncoming attacks --- Trade Skills --- Journeyman Cooking - While not a master chef by any meaning of the word, Emil is resourceful and can cook a variety of meals with what little resources are often available while in the field. Journeyman Surgery/First Aid - Unable to treat wounds via magic, Emil has been trained and is experienced with treating a variety of minor and moderate wounds, and is even capable of some surgery for more serious wounds. These treatments are not magic, and do not mend wounds instantly- nor do they guarantee the successful mending of wounds, but can serve to stave off death until more experienced doctors or healers can provide aid. Journeyman Crafting - From tailoring and needlework, to leather-working, Emil, while not particularly amazing at any craftsman's trade, is skilled enough to make field repairs to clothing and armor. Magic Emil has no skill or control over magic, though it appears that he may have the affinity for magic. He views magic with suspicion and a small amount of fear, and while he has accepted magic as a facet of life, he is still unnerved by it. Backstory: The city of Edessa is a fair sized city-state located along the coast of __(mainland continent neighboring Silver Lily Isles)__. Edessa is a constitutional monarchy led primarily by the King, and a group of senators. It is not a major military power, but is known for its high quality knights and sturdy and reliable trade ships, and also contributed a large portion of its forces Mage-Wars decades ago. Edessa, due to its proximity to the Silver Lily Isles, often trades with the settlements on the Isle, most notably Waeldeshore. Edessa and Waeldeshore have built a rather positive trade relationship over the past two decades, and ships bearing Edessan flags are common in Waeldeshore and vice versa. Emil, youngest son of the Erran family, comes from a long line of Edessan Knights. Emil, like the rest of his brothers were introduced to the lifestyle of a knight at a young age, and were immersed in their culture from the moment he could walk. The son of a Edessan Knight and his wife, Emil and his brothers were well educated at a young age and were taught manners as well as basic martial skills and knowledges as children. Throughout their childhood, Emil and his brothers would often venture into the city to play with other children. Emil made friends easily, and was known for his gentle and sensitive demeanor, while the rest of his brothers were respected for their various other qualities. As they Erran children grew older, they were trained in the ways of various weapons, such as the spear and sword, and were trained in horsemanship and riding. After his seventh birthday, Emil was apprenticed to another noble family to serve as a page, where he would begin to further refine horsemanship and swordsmanship as well as learn the intricacies of reading and writing. A naturally perceptive and relatively intelligent child, Emil was treated well by his host family, and learned much under their tutelage. The Knights of Edessa, or the Edessan Knights as many know them as, are an order of knights based in the city of Edessa. These knights are tasked with serving and protecting the people of Edessa, and often promote humanitarian movements to hunting monsters in the surrounding areas. These stalwart warriors are well known for both their valor and martial skill, despite their relatively small numbers. Every male member of the Erran family had been an Edessan Knight at one point in their life. Emil's brother is among the famed members of the Edessan Knights, and one of the King's personal guards. Each of Emil's brothers has already entered service in the order. As he turned 14, he became squire to a famed Edessan Knight, where he furthered his training, continuing his work on bladesmanship and horsemanship, as well as learning archery, music, speech, and skills befitting a young knight. Here he learned how to take care of, and maintain armor, how to tend horses and treat wounds. The next several years were difficult, his knight was fair, but strict, and offered him nothing but the most difficult challenges to face. Now a fresh 18 years old, Emil's journey to become a full fledged knight of Edessan has been completed, and Emil undertakes his first few journeys as his own knight. A message from the Great Sage Genevieve of Waeldeshore gives Emil his first taste of an adventure that he can call his own. Possessions, Equipment, Weapons: Father's Sword - A gift given to Emil by his father, upon his recent knighting. The sword is forged from Dwarven Steel- a special dwarven metallurgy technique that results in a tougher, denser, more durable steel. The blade is old and worn from use, but still remains a reliable weapon. A shorter than average bastard sword, it is light and maneuverable enough to be held in one hand, but its two handed grip makes it able to be wielded with two. Common Spear - A 6 foot pole of ash wood, with a steel tip attached. One of the most common personal weapons in the world, this weapon is easily used, and easily replaced. Able to be wielded with one hand, but most effective with two. Shortbow & Quiver - A short yew bow meant for hunting. Plain and simple, without any sort of frills, other than leather wrapping around the grip. A wooden and leather quiver contains 20 arrows. Both are typically stored on the outer saddlebags of Emil's horse. Heater Shield - A mid-sized shield with the Erran family coat of arms emblazoned across it. It is a lightweight metal shield that can be strapped to the forearm and secured with the hand. It has a leather strap that allows it to be slung over the shoulder/worn over the back. Edessan Half Plate - a cut down suit of plate armor generally utilized by mounted Edessan knights and soldiers. Plates protect major parts of the body, while the rest of the body is protected with tough leather and mail under a tunic. This is to allow light weight, and greater mobility while mounted. The benefits confer to foot combat as well. Roark, Horse - A well bred, multi-purpose horse ridden by Emil. Roark is a calm, well mannered horse, that doesn't scare easily. Roark wears boiled leather barding(armor) on his face, neck, and body. The barding is lightweight, and can protect Roark from glancing blows but doesn't provide much protection elsewise. Its still better than nothing, Emil argues. Roark also has saddlebags on his sides and behind the saddle. Roark's saddlebags contain: A pair of leather waterskins, a small pouch with money, a tinderbox, lines and tackle for fishing, a small iron bowl for cooking, a small hatchet for wood gathering, a small knife and whetstone, a length of rope (approx. 30 feet), a spool of fine thread and needle, a roll of clean cloth and bottle of spirits for cleaning and treating wounds, a pouch of herbal ointment, a lantern with several spare candles, a few days worth of provisions for Emil as well as his horse. Behind the saddle is a blanket and spare clothes are wrapped in a roll of canvas.
55,684	1,527	20	1,153	95	Do you remember Siegfried?" "Big guy with the birthmark on his forehead and the strange scar on his shoulder." Ionathan was still reeling from the brutal banter that Regina made saying that Ionathan was Still a whelp compared to most of the others on our group back then, he knew it was just banter so he let it slide. While Ionathan had no time to respond Regina would be able to see Ionathan's memories of the towering man. At this time Genevieve came through the door and stunned Ionathan entirely, It appeared that she had not aged at all and acted with the grace and form of a lady of the court, her clothes were also of a lady with a majestic dress that made her quite the eye catcher. She welcomed the group in a respectable manner and told the group of the events that happened in Waeldeshore that he remembered well. The screaming Townsfolk the lifeless body of the marshal, the guard making a desperate stand against the chaos and the heroes fighting the demons in the streets.Genevieve went on to tell how the relic had been stolen and needed to be returned to her for her order to remove the blighted evils of this world, a noble action for sure but she had not said any reward or payment, Ionathan wanted no payment himself but he was wondering if the others would accept this on moral grounds alone. Just when she finished, Ajax making a snide little chuckle that turned most of the heads in the room. In a impertinent and blunt fashion, Ajax asked questions that were surprisingly reasonable which made Ionathan guess that he was some kind of mercenary as he gave the feel of a man that had done these types of jobs many times before. The knight who had been averting Genevieve gaze as she looked round the room also spoke up giving another reasonable question. However Ionathan felt that another question was in needed of an answer. Bowing his head slightly in respect Ionathan said "My lady, forgive my impertinence, but is this a simple retrieval from some thief thinking to make a penny off a shiny relic, or was it stolen by some faction that rivals your own which seeks to use its powers for some other purpose?".	Name: Ionathan Hepburnberg Race: Half-Elf Description: Tall, Honourable,kind-hearted, mid 30s human age appearance. Age: 53 Gender: Male Appearance: Dark Green eyes under black eyebrows and short, black hair. At 6 foot 1 Ionathan is above average height for humans and easily stands out with his sharp, elven like features including elf like ears but more rounded and less pronounced, he has a Light skin colour with a small scar on his right cheekbone Clothing/Armor: A Tabard with the Hepburnberg Coat of arms over a mail shirt with padding underneath. He has a few satchels upon his belt consisting of first aid supplies. Atop his head is a sallet with a padded lether cap underneath. On casual days, Ionathan wears a plain brown tunic. Weapons: Ionathan wields a bastard sword that is usually equiped with his shield that he carries on his back with a Guige when it's not equiped. The shield is a standard heater shield with the Hepburnberg heraldry for a coat of arms. Skills/Abilities: An experience fighter-Ionathan's experience in the army has not left him as he remembers the battles he was in and how to take on opponents of different measure. Discipline and Obedience- As part of his soldier training the iron discipline is still embedded in Ionathan's mind. Ionathan knows basic first aid with some advance understanding of the significance of wounds. Backstory: With a human father and a elven mother Ionathan got to learn about both human and elven cultures from an early age. However, His father was a wealthy landowner so his marriage to an elf was most scandalous, this left Ionathan with a resentment of the nobility and few friends. Ionathan in his childhood and adolescents spent his time reading and received a good education via private tutors. When the war broke out Ionathan had just reached Adulthood and being in a noble family he was enlisted as an officer cadet, Ionathan's training at the officers training camp was harsh but effective, at the start he was like any other who had just reached adult hood, full of energy and always cheerful, but by the end he was a disciplined and skilled officer who acted with knowledge and calculation rather than gut feeling. After The training he was assigned to be a Lieutenant of the 35th regiment of foot where he served throughout the war. The 35th served with valor and duty with their most famous action taking place when a strike force went to strike a supply town near the border and the 35th held the road despite repeated enemy assaults until reinforcements arrived, the officers were personally kissed on the cheeks by the ruling official of the town and were offered the best rooms in the taverns while the regiment was resupplied. After the war Ionathan adopted a girl made orphaned by the war and settled down and bought a cosy 2 bedroomed house in Waeldeshore were he became a guard for the town. Over the years he reflected on his life in the army while growing to like the town and became a respected by his colleagues and the town for his by the book approach to handling situations and his good relation with the Guard Captain. Throughout the years he made sure that his daughter was given the best education he could afford her with his salary, even on the weekends giving lessons himself. He remains in close contact with his parents who visit every month. Ionathan is looking forward to a life of keeping law and order while letting time heal the wounds of war. After the "happening" at Waeldeshore, Ionathan took over the family estate in the countryside and established it as a fine farming estate. The workers being retired soldiers and victims of the happenings, live in accommodation around the estate and although the pay is modest, Ionathan provides food, warmth and shelter for those who have suffered. Ionathan put aside his sword and picked up the pen becoming Commissioner of Justice, reforming the guard into a more professional law enforcement body. Being part of a noble family Ionathan was put through an arranged marriage with was easy to arrange due to the fame he gained in fighting the demons, while the couple are not a "lovey dovey" pair they both love each other dearly and have enjoyed there years of marriage which soon gave them a son. Ionathan’s Adopted daughter was accepted by Ionathan’s wife with open arms and now has become the state ambassador traveling around the world promoting friendship and trade between nations. One day Ionathan received a strange letter from Genevieve calling him to once more take up arms, Ionathan immediately informed his wife of the letter and his intent to leave. Although leaving his wife and child to themselves weighted heavy in Ionathan’s heart, he departed several days later. Alignment- Lawful good
55,685	1,527	21	2,426	2,292	Aware of the eyeing the faun presented her, the seasoned creature left her sizable digits atop the smooth, untarnished surface of the master's table. Each one's velvety pad, having worn rough with trial, marked it subconsciously in doing so and recording the texture; she formed memories of this place, not out of fondness for it, but entire distrust. Everything here had made the former ranger suspicious, well beyond that which she should have been from the start. Nothing set comfortably upon her spirit here, and even less so did any of its lavishness. Not to say she disapproved of the wealthy or powerful, but what had been placed in priority begged her mind not to take any ease here, at least not for now. The halfling, of who called herself Regina, drew the narrowed gaze of the hardened lioness who had remote familiarity to the power of the mind - some aspects of which she used herself in similar albeit vastly different ways. Thinking as she was by the table, mulling over what it was she had witnessed in thought, she carefully assessed the small woman; A psion with telekinetic prowess... Pausing to withdraw her pawed palm, she let it rest to her side, thinking further on the matter only a few moments more. There would be time enough to meditate on these events later, and several had either willfully or unknowingly played their hand much too soon to anyone they should not trust immediately, which was all company present - particularly the master of the house, who at least was practiced in magic. The Huntress, having been company to many mercenaries from the cutthroat to the professional, knew the dangers of spoiling one's usefulness so early on. Blinking coolly, her heightened senses alerted her to another joining the meeting; a deep breath before the door and the unlocking of the mechanisms as they were depressed. Resisting the urge for her rounded ears to cup toward the sound, she thought to prepare herself mentally for whatever was to come, which of all things seemed to be the supposed master of the house, or more specifically the lady. The deadly gaze of the monstrous mage remained beyond the woman for a moment - specifically noting she was alone, or so it appeared - before returning to her and quickly developing a sense of the person who was before them. As quickly as the woman moved into the room, dressed in finery of which she most certainly wore to compliment the ornateness of her home, the remaining eye and soon body turned to face her; refusing a seat and remaining standing, not far from where the woman soon stood behind the lush chair that headed the table. Her dialogue seemed as though destined for others present, but those were not the greatest of notes she took away. However, before she could dismantle every word spoken and begin retaining them as a personal recitation, the manly behemoth that was Diagorides intervened. "So... you were part of this... order that fought against evil. Why are they not handling this, then? It sounds like just the task for them. And you've yet to say what's in it for us. The thrill of adventure is all well and good but no one should do things for nothing. It's degrading to their skills." It indeed sounded as a mere call to arms, the sort of thing to stir the fighting spirit of men who considered themselves of honor, nobility and valor; qualities that led to many a man's demise, this Sakaala knew better than likely any other member present here within the meeting. She was no enemy of mortals, whom she was presently keeping company with short of the faun, but she had ample reason to distrust them and their believed concepts of distinct good and evil. It was the sort of thought that continued as Lady Genevieve then looked into the faces of each, seeming to acknowledge them in her effort. Looking into the scarred face of the lion-woman was akin to gazing into the heart of conflict laid bare upon mortal flesh; it had taken its toll upon her, and not for a moment did the massive feline form show any drastic shift of demeanor in the dying light of this day as it struck through from the windows beyond. Evil is a powerful word. Her jowls wished her to mouth the thought and make it real, but she held her tongue, for now. The others had many remarks readied, or so it seemed, and there was no question pressing enough that she needed to intervene at this moment; things first needed to play out, and more than anything the veteran warrior turned magic user needed to better know who this Lady Genevieve was at heart and interest. Both knightly men having finished, the calm yet commanding voice spoke, hands remaining idle in so doing. "You almost seem disappointed." The Huntress made visibly no effort to engage in the human customs, not out of notable disdain, but that there was a lack of mutual trust which she now subtly voiced, "... and unsure of us, no less. Yet, you had the capacity to not only send your servant on your behalf, but the authority to summon us." "Consider me to be in agreement with what the man, Diagorides, had said when he begged the question as to why your order - dedicated to fighting evil and clearly able to muster great magical power - could not perform this task and instead called upon mercenary adventurers, some of whom you are unfamiliar to." The shifting of her stance while she stood beside the chair that she claimed by proxy was a false sense of ease, followed by a motion of calculated sympathy in her surprisingly elegant words and queenly voice, "I am no friend of evil, but I am no youth to the matters of the sort of bloody work this business might be." Performing as she was, careful to mind the way in which she began and ended her dialogue, the leonine woman supported the reclining man's argument. Reasonably after all, it was the safest way in which she hoped to learn more about the nature as to why these events had taken place as the noble woman before them, in all of her surprisingly youthful beauty - a quality the warrior-mage knew not at this time, provided little comfort to anything that had transpired here on this coming evening.	Name: "Sakaala" Referring to herself as "Sakaala", it is unknown what her name truly is, but there exists reason enough to believe that her assumed name has apparent symbolism, most likely amongst those familiar to her fallen people who placed great value in the meaning of all things, most importantly those belonging to themselves. For those in the know of obscure and arcane cultural history, she is "the finality" or more simply "the last (whole) one", a sobering title that is not only accurate but most disheartening. Species: Monstrous Humanoid The origin and types of monstrous humanoids vary greatly, with some being the product of twisted arcane magic unchecked to others being the work of some divine force. They range from the more "common", as with the minotaur, centaur or harpy, to the more exotic and rare. Sakaala, as well as those who once made up her people, bordered the spectrum of the latter more than the former, being mostly obscure but recorded comparatively well. However, the question of what created a small number of lionmen abroad the realm is unknown, but their kind existed like many monsters before the Age of Mortals, near certainly having an origin many ancient eras past. Only in recent times has this rare bloodline, as with many other unusual beings of similar sorts, all but disappeared after prolonged hunting of "aberrants" by paranoid mortals in the wake of the near successful invasion of the plane. Age: 47 Although longer lived than most mortal men by virtue of unnatural blood, Sakaala is no youth and certainly no longer in her prime. In spite of these things, as with her natural relatives, she is a remarkable example of longevity which has been extended yet by dabbling in arcane arts and an incredible will to survive. Description: Sakaala is distinct in just race alone; owing both to her incredible scale among mortal men, at the height of horse of twenty-two hands, and her overtly leonine features of which are only vaguely humanoid in nature and otherwise quite savage. Her dense sand tone hide is badly scarred about the right of her body, bearing some wounds of which were so visibly savage that even magical aid has not wholly righted them, but the most notable being the blindness of her right eye. While no less lame in the right arm than blind in the right eye, almost entirely numb, she retains its use by sense of self alone. Ambidextrous in response because of this weakness, her tendency to shore up vulnerabilities is remarkable. She distinctly conceals the worst of her injuries beneath her partial robe, and outside of the obvious blindness of an eye, her body is in remarkable condition for a female of her growing age, violent history and having bore offspring in previous. While not overtly robust, her musculature is still visible and her strength measurably stronger than many men. Instead of these qualities, she is more remembered for the gold that is the color of her eyes, barring the blindness; they are akin to portals of lingering sadness and fierce resolve - the same lament of failure and animal cry of defiance entwined. Minimalist in her armoring, Sakaala bears a well worn mithral breastplate upon her chest and a matching pauldron and bracer to her weaker arm, ending it in a fingerless leather glove. Beneath her limited armor she dresses in the remnants of an aged arcanist's robe that ends just beneath her sizable bust, rolling it at the shoulder upon the right limb and let loose upon her strong left arm; the formerly black material having faded to a dusted grey. It, like the rest of her regalia, is undoubtedly salvaged from a fallen friend or a fallen foe, becoming both a prize and a memento. Upon her waist fits a wide tribal belt and battered sash keeping rolled, pressed leather leggings that are accompanied by a pair of slender, exotic daggers worn at the thigh about her lower half. While the belt she adorns herself was once common to her kind, they exist now only as prizes in the hands of grim collectors. Worn about her neck hangs a morbid reminder of her enemy's hatred for her people - a collection of fangs and claws - which was most certainly pried from the cold, dead grasp of one of her felled foes of which is accompanied by another, not nearly minor trinket; a decorative necklace of polished black stone upon a humble leather loop adorned with smaller decorative pieces. Not keen to speak of the second of the two pieces of finery, she often counts the poached points of her other necklace. Bearing a true hand-and-a-half elven blade of indeterminate age as her favored weapon, it is uncertain if it were a tool of conflict initially her own or one which she liberated from her would-be killers. Forged of the rare ore mithral, it is polished to an exquisite silvery shine instead of dulled with age about the fine of the blade. Despite its characteristic remarkable lightness and finesse, the weapon is truly designed to be wielded with both hands by its bearer, yet Sakaala's great scale and greater strength allows her to wield it with deadly ease in a single pawed hand. Unnervingly, so much as drawing the blade - let alone swinging it - sets it to ring faintly in a short lived but soft harmonic hum, but more than anything the bite of the sword itself leaves such keen blows that they are almost unsettling to look upon. Personality and Alignment: Neutral Good The benevolent matriarch, her inherently motherly animal nature follows her strongly with the incredible violence, that both magical and mundane, which she is capable of should she or those she considers her own be threatened. Kindly even toward those wary of her, her wrath is not easily provoked, but no threats made against her or those she views as companions are considered just idle. Perhaps unconsciously she tends to the wounded, acquires fresh provisions, and stays awake during watches all to ensure the continued survival of her adoptive company. Aging as she is, she has embraced the role of a vizier and sage, providing great insight and wisdom to those who inquire upon her. No friend of evil and abiding by her own sense of morality, she is best described as an intellectual and spiritual benefactor. Skills/Abilities: Lore Expertise Having lived such a varied and long life has graced Sakaala with many skills, the most notable is her vast knowledge upon matters ranging from historical events to distant locales, from to forces of nature to arcane mysteries. Self taught, her incredible recollection is imperfect and incomplete, but more often than not her acquired lore is relevant. She specializes in the intellectual categories of arcana, history, nature and locales with little greater knowledge on other matters. Martial Adept There are those who achieve martial proficiency through strength of arms alone and then there are those who acquire combat superiority by raw skill. Sakaala's inhuman strength and agility lend well to life lived by the sword, but it is her intuition, intelligence and force of personality that truly make her a deadly foe as she not only understands the principals of conflict, but actively anticipates them with preternatural skill. This so called "blade-magic" is a blend of martial arts, mysticism, and swordplay - at times engaging in impossible feats martial through magic and at others achieved by intense discipline and practice alone. Sakaala makes up for her disabilities by simply being more skillful and magically inclined than most her foes. Bolstering Presence While Sakaala is present, her mere warrior nature supernaturally inspires mental resolve and great courage in the face of fear among herself and allies. Effects that attack the mind are weakened, and attempts to intimidate or cause fear are dampened heavily as the body, emotion, mind, and spirit are made hardened against such effects. Perfect Mind Honed by intense exposure to offensive magic, Sakaala's force of personality provides her immense leverage against mind-affecting effects. The bane of charms, enchantments and illusions, she often rapidly comes to her senses, especially in the heat of battle or when her companions are threatened. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Steel Wind This maneuver involves a sudden turn of the blade that lands an otherwise singular blow against one target to also connect with another. A difficult attack to employ in the hands of the untrained, its uncanny speed and incredible finesse work are further augmented by Sakaala's ambidexterity, making her a deadly foe against numbers of enemies, especially the lightly armored. This attack is effectively a single attack against multiple targets. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Wall of Blades The agility Sakaala can display for brief periods of time even without her magic is unsettling. With lightning speed, Sakaala can counter a single melee or ranged attack, blocking or deflecting the worst of the blow with her own weapon, even in the worst of scenarios with precognition-like intuition. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Seasoned Ranger A born predator, Sakaala was one of many huntresses of her people, no less acting as a wildlands warrior in times of danger when threatened. Having survived alone from these skills for years, she is an able huntress and would be considered expert in the wilderness, capable of even eluding enemies and striking unexpectedly in natural environments. Of her practical skills, she is a trained gatherer of flora and fauna thus able to provide for herself and others in the ways of naturally provided rations, traditional medicine, pure water and various feats of outdoorsmanship. She is difficult to track when being followed and hardly inhibited by natural terrain. Magic: Channel Spell The ability to cast magical spells and effects is no small wonder even in a world where magic is possibility, but the power to do so while accompanying martial maneuvers is another great feat altogether. Able to channel some of her spells through her natural and weapon attacks, she unleashes devastating blows that inflict a variety of other effects on the victims of the attack. Working in conjunction with her supernatural martial arts, she can perform these abilities often in unexpected ways such as casting a single spell and striking multiple foes with its effects at once. She is not only limited to a small selection of spells to channel a day, but cannot do so extensively without becoming exhausted mentally. Bladeweave A swing of the sword moves with awesome magical grace and almost rhythmic perfection while giving off glints of faint light. Any creature unfortunate enough to be struck might find itself briefly dazed for a moment of hesitation by the fascinating magical swordsmanship exhibited. Creatures that have already been dazed are just as likely to be dazed again, but those resistant to illusions are not likely to be so awed. Combustion A corona of roiling heated air sheathes the blade, leaving waves of intense heat in the wake. A creature or object struck by the weapon discharges the spell, causing the target to instantly ignite in a personal inferno and setting them intensely ablaze for a moment before the magical flames vanish. If hasty or fortunate, a creature can extinguish the lingering non-magical flames left behind - if not careful, they continue to burn with mundane fire until its fuel is exhausted or its air is cut off. Enfeeblement An ominous dark green glimmer envelops the weapon's blade and is discharged upon successful strike, magically debilitating the muscular strength of the victim. Each instance of crippled physical might is additive, and creatures depleted of their strength are temporarily paralyzed and rendered helpless. Their lost strength returns minutes later after the last blow endured. Fatiguing A faint dullness and aura of immaterial grey shrouds the weapon's blade and is discharged upon a successful blow. The so affected creature is overcome by fatigue, slowing its physical strength and reflexes greatly, but most notably leaving it tired and unable to run. The weight of their debilitation is brief, lasting only a few prolonged moments and once the effects wear off, they are no worse for wear because of it. Shocking A scatter of sparks and silent cyan-white lightning shudder about the sword's length, pulling it more accurately toward metal targets. Upon striking, the magical effect discharges with a dull localized clap of thunder and the target is struck by a mighty burst of lightning from the weapon, jarring them. This channeled effect is much more likely to land upon metal targets than those not bearing much metal. True Strike A bearer of a weapon to be imbued takes a brief moment to gain precognative insight into their next attack, greatly increasing its likelihood to land, yet this strength comes at the cost of denying the caster action for a moment. Now enchanted for its next blow, it ignores both magical and practical forms of concealment and seems to find the weakest point in the target's defenses. Once it strikes, the benefit ends and the aura of perfect clarity is gone. Wraithstrike A phantasmal air surrounds the now shimmering blade which is sheathed in ghostly wisps. For a brief moment, it strikes with deathly accuracy, penetrating conventional defenses such as armor or even benefits such as magical deflectiveness, needing only to merely touch the victim to deal its damage in full as though it were a spirit. Upon striking, the effect ends and the weapon returns to its normal qualities. Natural Sorceress As a creature born of magic, the very essence of latent power lies within Sakaala and those that were like her, infused with every ounce of their person. It is from this obscure pool that she draws upon, evoking sorcerous power on whim, but having deeply specialized in doing so; her repertoire of magical spells not vast or complex, but instead practical and martial. She blends the martial arts and swordplay with her magic instead of casting traditional spells by and far, although she can indeed manifest some purely magic effects. Traditionally, few monstrous humanoids are able mages - instead relying upon their natural superiority to combat magical and mundane threats through sheer force and intuition. Sakaala, in spite of these things and the taboos of her now lost society, has taken up arcane power to compensate for her debilitation and growing age. It is known that many mortals are driven mad by arcane power with time, but many monsters seem no worse for wear. As with all sorcerers, Sakaala's magic depletes throughout the day when she expends it. Recovering her inherent energy when she rests for a prolonged time, she relies upon measured application of mystic force so not to expend all of her magic in a short time although she is capable of doing so. Least (0th) Arcane Mark, Amanuensis, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Read Magic, Touch of Fatigue Lesser (1st) Nerveskitter, Shocking Grasp, Truestrike, Ray of Enfeeblement Common (2nd) Combust, Bladeweave, Wraithstrike Great (3rd) Haste, Dispel Magic Arcane Mark A visible or invisible permanent mark of magical enchantment is placed upon the target without causing harm. If placed upon a creature, it fades with time over a month. When invisible, it requires a creature that can see invisibility to notice the mark. Otherwise only an effect that detects magic renders the mark visible, but one must be able to read magic as well to understand its meaning, if it even has one. Amanuensis An invisible force, when provided with text to read and parchment, begins transcribing the mundane words of another work. The force continues to generate the copied text word for word on to the initially blank parchment, skipping any illustrations and magical enchantments it encounters in its work, leaving their locations empty. While it does not translate the writings, should they be in a language not understood, it does continue to copy them until its duration ends or it pauses, awaiting more parchment. Detect Magic The viewer can visually detect magical effects within their line of sight, out to a short distance as glowing radiation. If they wish to concentrate they may separate different auras and determine their strength, and with further concentration attempt to determine the specific spell effect that is active. Powerful magical effects and creatures leave lingering auras, and appear more distinctly upon focus. Dispel Magic A powerful, brief burst of nullifying magic affects a creature or object, or dispels an area instantly of any temporary magical effects and interrupts ongoing ones or those being cast. The dispelling affect always targets the most powerful spells first, then attempts to remove the progressively weaker ones of its target. Against a creature casting a spell, this effect causes the spell to immediately fail to cast. Haste The caster and nearby allies blur with sudden, lightning fast alacrity, moving with intense speed and reflexes. Their attacks become so rapid they are a near blur of motion, and their movement causes them to shimmer with enchanted speed. Striking more accurately and evading more rapidly, this effect lasts only a few intense prolonged moments. Mage Hand An invisible force may manipulate objects through concentration as though it were an extension of its master. Although capable of only lifting light objects, it has the full functionality of a phantasmal hand free of a body, giving it great range of motion. A form of very limited magical psychokinesis, its range is short and it disperses to nothing if it travels far. Message A distant conversation may be held at a whispered tone, sent to a small number of selected creatures. Although each may reply individually, the visibly spoken words are sent to all affected individuals. It bypasses line of sight, limited out to several hundred feet, but is stopped by magical silence, dense metal or stone, or several feet of earth or wood. The words spoken are identical to what is being said and do not transcend language barriers. Nerveskitter An icy rush races through the blood of the affected individual, spurring them to act or react to danger well before they regularly would be capable. Immediate in effect and its casting, it gives the the creature great precognition for but a moment, allowing them to act with greater initiative. Although limited in range out to a short distance, it heightens the senses and reactions greatly for a crucial few seconds. Prestidigitation This effect can generate a wide array of more minor effects, of which are humble yet practical uses of magic. They range from cleaning to dirtying an object, creating minor levitation in small objects, chill or warm slightly, ignite or extinguish mundane flames, create small fragile objects or play ethereal musical notes, and so forth. While it cannot duplicate stronger spells, it perhaps can evoke the illusion of greater magic at play. Read Magic Enabling a reader to explicitly read magically concealed text, it can be used to translate runes, scrolls, symbols and other forms of enchanted text. It does not invoke any latent magical effect of the writing, but it allows the reader to no longer require the ability to read that enchanted text through magic, giving them inherent understanding of it. Backstory: Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary By "The Mage", quoted from "Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary", Chapter VI "On the Subject of Sakaala" "Hunter, warrior, arcanist - over the span of a lifetime one has many varied roles that they might confront, but few ever live them so fully as to explore them in their entirety. She however, has. Undeniably left with the signs of terrible wounds past, most notably the blindness of her right eye and blatant lameness of the right arm, she has endured trials no one, be them man or beast, should be forced to confront alone. Born an exceptional huntress but appointed a warrior, she served loyally on behalf of her scarce peoples, keeping grim threats beyond, those we do not suffer, at bay. Although she, as with select others among her lot, served admirably on behalf man, not all men were so approving. It was in this she was forced to fight to the last beside those who had become her sisters on an ever losing front, but for all of her skill even she too was felled. She too has felt the bite of defeat... all the more memorable than that of victory. She does not speak to us about what became of her children, but when you look upon her eyes you see that same hurt of someone with nothing left to her in this world. It is for these reasons she turned to things most men believe left better unknown - the arcane. For one reason or another, perhaps because she is not of mortal stock, she has acquired the capacity to wield this mystic thing as any other weapon. She has made her body, and even her blade, its conduit. It is all almost a direct extension of herself, the way in which she flows like graceful death both natural and magical; the manner in which she ably adapts her styles, be them as subtle as her favored hand to the placement of her feet, even in her age. I wonder if she is truly satisfied now, watching over us like our matriarch - some relic of a dead people - blessing us with kindness we cannot possibly repay. After all, what could we offer her? We are but mere men; arrogant, brash, foolish and young. What really drives her to aid us in the heat of conflict or tend to our wounds thereafter? A motherhood she still lives vicariously? Whatever the reason, she has more than earned my faith in her; my admiration for her."
55,686	1,527	22	1,054	1,812	Genevieve knew she would meet opposition, and be challenged with such queries but this was a bit more than she expected. "Please, please, one at a time. Unfortunately, I am the last of my order, that I know of. There was a great rift within our ranks, and during those dark times, many had perished. Any survivors went into hiding. I have searched for many years, hoping to find someone, at the very least, a trace of someone. Not all was lost though. Within my search, twenty-five years ago I came upon a group of individuals. So courageous and selfless were they, they risked their lives against forces of evil that most of this world are lucky to have never come upon." She cleared her throat, at this point finally showing some sort of discomfort. Her face was painted with several different emotions and her voice became filled with such sadness, the room suddenly felt dark and cold. "I have never been able to find any of my brethren, and I can assure you, my abilities are not as vast as they may seem. I am, in no way disappointed. The dangers you all will face, should you choose to help me, may be greater than any of you could imagine. Demons from the darkest pits of the abyss, powerful magi with armies all to themselves. And perhaps - even a deadly assassin, should she show herself. The larger group we may be, the more likely we will be victorious. But I had chosen you lot, mostly because I have no one else to turn to, but also because I know not to underestimate people like you. I almost made that mistake once, and I am glad that I had reconsidered." she glanced at Ionathan with a warm smile. "I have heard stories. Stories of grand adventures, merciless victories... I need great warriors by my side. Yes, there will be a reward, and yes, more than just the honor of a good deed done." She moved into her seat, a long breath escaped as the weight of her ensemble settled into the large, padded throne. "During my studies, I had learned of three artifacts, or as some texts have named them, keys. Each key has their own attribute or powers, but when one possesses all three keys, they essentially become a god. With their power, they can control the energies of not only this realm, but more importantly, the armies of hell itself. That kind power in the wrong hands can certainly be a danger that none of us can ignore. Some of you had acquired for me one of these keys. Previous to this, I had another one in my possession, and for quite a while before it was stolen. It was passed down and safe guarded by my order. This particular artifact is quite ordinary, and is known in some circles as the 'Key of Discreetness', it's a rock with a dull grey glow, and a few runes on it that don't mix and therefore don't work, except within the presence of the other artifacts. This artifact was stolen by a rogue witchling; a traitor to us all. She had traveled with some of us all those years ago and fought by our side. And after helping us defeat the dangers to Waeldeshore, she fled the isle, with quite a few of my belongings, the artifact among them. I do not know her reasons for doing what she did, but I do believe she is consorting with a dangerous guild of magi, housed on this side of the world. They, I believe, have their own reasons for wanting the key, and I'm sure they are plotting and scheming, looking to acquire the other two keys for their own twisted purpose." She glanced at Sakaala for a moment before continuing. "I have authority over my own house staff, none other, especially you. And by you, I mean all of you. You had each received an invitation here, perhaps not with clear intent, but with enough information to engage your curiosity. So to say that I have the authority to summon you all is false. It was your own desires, your own choice that led you here. I am simply asking for help on a mission that I cannot complete by myself. So ... will you help me?" ~~~~*~~~~ The rogue paced back and forth for a bit. Her frustration was clouding her judgement by this point, but she couldn't wait around any longer. There were innocents in the mix now that she just could not ignore. She slipped into the shadows and creeped back into town, making her way towards the sage's house once more.	Name: Isabeau Falkenrath Species: Human/Witchling Age: 52 Description: Having let her hair grow out, her dark auburn locks are typically tied up in a braided bun, several pieces, refusing to be bound, frame her face, complementing an olive skin tone. A grey strand here and there, depicting age. Her eyes are something to behold; light green surrounded by a thin ring of gold. Freckles sprinkle lightly over a smooth face, nearly void of any wrinkles representative of a woman coming into her fifties. She stands at about 5’7” tall, a petite upper body sitting upon wider hips and thick thighs. Not overly muscular though her body is tone. When exposed, displayed on her back are a number of scars, some seeming a bit more prominent. A rather fresh one sits just above her right brow. She may have aged some from the last time any had seen her, but she certainly doesn't look as old as she is. Personality: She is typically cold and brash, on the outside anyway. Her overconfident ways have often gotten her in a pinch, but not one that she couldn't ever find her way out of. She never takes the easy way out and has a soft spot for those who have been bullied. Having grown used to the luxuries coin can buy, she would prefer a more lavish lifestyle. Shiny things may distract her from time to time, but it is never to say she had an easy life. Clothing: She typically wears light fabrics, leathers and cloths of darker shades. A large cowl normally covers most of her features. Dark brown leather boots extend up just past her knees, straps and buckles secure padding where would be needed. Plain cloth pants are held up by a thick black belt, lined with a few pouches and oddities. Weapons: Through her training, she has become a jack of all trades. Though her favorite weapon is the battle axe strapped to her back. She has a dagger hidden within her boots and one saddled to her belt at her right hip. The dagger hanging from her belt is a curved blade, with a ruby embedded within the hilt. Skills and Abilities: Part of the reason why the witches wanted to do away with her because she did not have the affinity for magic as they did. However her time in the Assassin’s Keep allowed her to develop other skills and techniques: Shadow Prison: Isabeau is able to shadow step to her foe for an attack. During this attack, her foe’s movement speed is drastically reduced temporarily Wild Blow: Isabeau is able to manipulate the shadows around her weapons, increasing the damage done by her attacks. The attack is usually used when attempting to sunder a shield. Wildfire: Despite not having the understanding of the weave, as the witches did, Isabeau was bestowed with a gift from her mother. The gift of Wildfire. This gift takes an enormous amount of energy to control and wield. When called upon, the shadows immediately surrounding her will ignite and deadly flames will coat her axe, adding fire damage to her attacks. This generally leaves Isabeau quite drained afterwards In her time away from civilization, she has learned to tap into the shadow realm. The more time she spent in the dark reflection of home, the less stable her footing became in each world. She would shift back and forth, sometimes without even meaning to. Magic:N/A -see skills above Backstory: Rumors of long ago, tell a tale of a witch who fell in love with a prince from a far away land. The prince had journeyed far in search of a magical herb that was said to cure a sickness plaguing his kingdom. He came upon a young woman living deep within the woods. Beautiful in every way imaginable, the Prince became enthralled with the young woman and insisted that she leave the woods and return with him to his castle. As tempting as the offer was, she could not leave her home. For she was a witch, just as her mother before her, and so on down the line. Their family and gifts had been banished from the kingdom long ago, and since, they had taken refuge in the forest, tending to the wilds and those who dwell within its sanctuary. Disturbed by the story, the prince vowed that he would speak with his father to lift their exile if she would return with him as his bride. Gleefully, the young woman accepted. And with the prince as her guest, she spent her last few days in the woods saying her goodbyes and making arrangements for after she left. Those last few nights blanketed by the stars, we're magical for her and the prince. Though as the story goes, it was the last shred of happiness for the young couple. Grandmother Amari, the high witch of their clan, had high expectations for the young witch. Plans, that did not include the Prince, that would've been especially ruined if the prince took her away to become a princess in the castle. Though a silver lining appeared that would help Amari's plans along. And so the high witch gathered her kin, and her plot for war went into action. On the eve before the two lovers were to leave for the castle, Amari had one of the youngest within their clan travel to the cottage where the two were staying. She silently crept in, cloaked within the shadows and darkness of the night. With one clean swipe of her blade, she sliced his throat open, and without anyone noticing, made her way back out. He bled out onto the bed next to his beloved, who never stirred, and never realized his death until the next morning. It wasn’t until many months later did they all realize the young witch was with child and when the news had traveled to the High Witch, it was ordered to discard the baby once it was born. The young witch with fire red hair and green eyes encircled with a gold ring would never know her daughter. Isabeau continued to meet only betrayal and despair as she grew older unfortunately. Bred into a world of death and darkness, she was raised within the Keep of the Assassin’s Guild and was honed into the land’s deadliest weapon. She was taught to cast all emotions aside, especially that of love. They told her that love made people weak, love would hold her back, get her killed. And just as they had warned her, love had been her undoing and led her to flee. ~~*~~ Since her departure of Waeldeshore, much has happened ((All to be revealed in rp)). Her reasons for returning are her own, but she has vowed to make things right.
55,687	1,527	23	2,782	1,198	Ajax had, indeed, ran into a number of perils during his short stay on this land, it was how he had become well known after all. He'd thought nothing of it, however, being so used to situations like those wherever he went that he considered them the normal state of affairs. He'd yet to arrive in any land where he could not "ply his trade", so to speak, and still thought very little of this woman, her order and her talk of peril to the world at large. He was most certainly unmoved by her apparent sadness at being unable to find others of her kind, and he visibly smirked when she mentioned her abilities "not being as vast as they seemed". "Yes, yes, I've heard it all before" he waved Genevieve off. "But I've not yet heard what we are to do. Storm these mages? Tear their guild asunder until we find what we are looking for? And what of this witchling and the assassin?". Ajax lifted his feet off the table and instead leaned forwards, laying his weight on his massive crossed arms as he peered at his would be employer. His face was all business now. "It is poor form not to lay out the details early. And we've yet to hear what the reward will be, should we conquer these, uh, great dangers".	Name: Ajax Diagorides Species: Human Age: 40 Description: Ajax is an olive skinned and tanned man who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs around 300 pounds. A thick, muscle bound figure with powerful, sinewy arms and robust legs which end in burly hands and feet and a log-like neck that holds up a head as large as the rest of his body, with a prominent jaw and chin as well as dark brown eyes, short, curly black hair and a thick but not overly long beard, he bears a more than passing resemblance to the real-life Boxer of Quirinal, except far more muscular, with a build closely resembling that of a powerlifter or strongman competitor. Thanks to his less than healthy lifestyle, Ajax is a mess to look at. He is scarred from head to toe, his eyes are sunken, his nose squashed and slightly deviated, he has cauliflower ears and his hands, forearms, elbows, knees, shins and feet are covered in extremely thick and rough calluses, giving them a leathery, bumpy look. Ajax's clothing is a loose white robe called a doric chiton, that he keeps strapped to his left shoulder with a pin and extends past his waist, ending just above the knees. Ajax also wears brown leather, hobnailed, sandal-like boots called caligae. Personality: Ajax is a fairly merry man, fond of living a life full of excitement and action and can be fairly easy to get along with as he is giving, loyal, honest and straightforward, seeing greed, deceit and treachery as marks of weakness. Conversely, he's also kind of nuts. He says what's on his mind no matter the situation, is knowingly offensive to others and enjoys fighting to a mind-boggling degree. Smashing things to bits seems to be his main solution to any problem, too, and he has no qualms in instigating fights or escalating them when a couple words would be enough to defuse a potentially dangerous situation. Ajax has a great distaste for magic and religion and will act rather condescending to anyone who relies overmuch on these, even worse if they try to lord these things over him or otherwise try to make him see their way. It’s not enough to bring him to violence but he sees over-reliance on magic or the intervention of higher forces as a queer path in life. Why credit the gods with your achievements, why rely on some mystic force you can barely comprehend when you could achieve this on the strength of your back? He feels much the same towards those who take their status as nobles as somehow making them intrinsically superior to others. Ajax has a fairly complex world view based on strength, self-reliance and personal growth. He feels the strong come to rule the weak, but that strength isn't limited to physical strength or martial power and that the weak should, in turn, grow strong and strive for greater things in life, never letting themselves be crushed underfoot. He relishes the freedom necessary for such a growth and will readily help others to attain it, just as long as they actually put the effort to grow themselves, though his efforts can come across as him just being rather mean. He is especially harsh towards those who could stand for themselves but don't and expect others to do it for them, believing that over-reliance on others is another path to subjugation. Skills/Abilities: -Herculean: Ajax seems to have been gifted with superhuman physicality. Though his agility and manual dexterity aren’t much to speak of, he is freakishly strong and damn near tireless. His entire body is tremendously difficult to damage and eradicates poisons, toxins and disease with absurd ease. What makes this unique is that Ajax wasn't simply born powerful, but rather that his body adapted to extremely harsh circumstances much faster and better than anyone else. It's something everyone can do. Both muscle and bone adapt to the stresses they're placed under with time, you can exercise specifically to increase your lung capacity, you can get used to extremes of temperature if you live with them long enough, but the thing about Ajax is that his gift allows him to defy normal human limits. Of course, this gift requires a high degree of dedication to constantly test and push his own limits. If he had lived a quiet life, his gift would've gone by unnoticed. His gift also allows him to pit his body against things that should be unaffected by mere brute force, since his body has been cultivated in such an unnatural way. He can pit his might directly against magic such as hold spells and the like, though this doesn't make him immune to magic as a whole, and is resilient towards mind-altering effects from a mixture of sheer willpower and having experienced them previously in his travels. This also extends to attempts to invade his psyche, which meet with as heavy a resistance as if Ajax was fighting the person directly. -Pankration: Ajax is a skilled unarmed fighter, having trained to fight most of his life and having survived a number of ordeals through fighting skill alone. His fighting style is known in his homeland as Pankration, loosely translated as "all of might", and was originally a blend of boxing and wrestling with no rules beyond no biting or eye-gouging before more and more skills were added to its repertoire. Ajax is a particularly skilled grappler, adept at using his strength and size to his advantage, but knows how to supplement it with effective striking and has a proper grasp of the fundamentals of fighting beyond sheer strength. Backstory: Ajax descends from a long line of athletes, from the faraway land of Erimai. His father, Diagoras, was an accomplished wrestler trained by his father as was tradition within the family and celebrated in his homeland for his many victories in legitimate sporting events. Diagoras, in turn, upheld the custom and trained Ajax from an early age, and the young man soon grew into a grappler of considerable skill himself. However before Ajax could make his debut in an official event, Diagoras was murdered, the killer managing to evade the law. With the aid of family friends, many of which held connections with the fighting underworld, Ajax eventually discovered that his father's death was orchestrated by Diagoras' supposed benefactor, Magistrate Cleon, because Diagoras had won a fight he was asked to throw. Enraged, Ajax sought Cleon out to murder him with his own two hands but was subsequently defeated, bested by foul sorceries and the attack of a demonically powerful fighter in Cleon's employ, known only as Hyperanthes. He was captured and his family subjected to great shame. Publicly tried for attempting to murder a magistrate, Ajax was to be sentenced to death by poisoning before Cleon intervened, demanding Ajax be sold to him as a slave as reparation, a demand that was granted. It was then that Ajax's fighting career truly began, as the magistrate entered him in brutal underground contests, rule-less deathmatches for the enjoyment of select crowds. Fighting for survival with neither weapons nor armor, Ajax overcame all odds with his continued survival and spectacular progress, eventually becoming the circuit's most celebrated champion. Only one thought kept him from despair: revenge. As time passed Ajax befriended a few of the other fighters and together they planned an escape. A hole in security, an opportune bribe carried out by acquaintances on the outside and superior combat skills were all that was needed, and soon the fighters were free. Knowing he'd be hunted down, Ajax decided to flee the country without involving anyone else, sneaking into a random merchant ship leaving the island which was first dragged around, then smashed to bits by a typhoon. The lone survivor, Ajax drifted aimlessly in a damaged raft until he arrived to a strange foreign land. So began his career as a travelling adventurer. Never settling in a single place for long, always moving, always fighting to become ever stronger, looking to return to his homeland. The only problem is, no ship seems to know how to get there and by this point he has boarded about a dozen random ships with no clue where exactly they were going, so he is well and truly lost in this regard. His homeland could be on the exact opposite of creation for all he knows. He has, however, come to find great enjoyment in his life and while he still seeks his home, he is content with facing life on a day to day basis, taking on new adventures as they come. It is not uncommon to find him as a strongman for hire, and tales are sometimes told of the strange, massive foreigner carrying neither weapons nor armor who clears out monster dens or bandit camps seemingly for the challenge of it. Enticing him to take part of a new adventure should be a simple matter. Other: I always though it was pretty boring how the badass fisticuffs class is always some type of asian stereotype built to be dodgy rather than a frontline manly man so think of Ajax as a Fighter rather than a Monk, speaking in class terms, except with less reliance on being given decent gear and magical buffs. He's the guy that stands at the front of the line, gets the crap kicked out of him and keeps going, and can deal some good damage especially in one on one fights. He's actually a prior character of mine, a Fighter in Dungeon World which lets you use gauntlets as your weapon type thanks to its narrative focus.
55,688	1,527	24	2,426	2,292	Clever, it is though she had said the same thing over again, yet this time in more words uttered. The aged warrior mused within her mind as the woman before spoke, having had Lady Genevieve glance briefly to her towering form; it was this sort of demeanor and the obscurity of her words that only proved to further the Huntress' distrust for what was said. They were too vague, in particular for any detail mercenary adventurers would need and that she was so reluctant to detail anything - names, more specifically - was what set the beastly traveler on edge. When the woman began again, looking upon Sakaala in doing so, she seemed to attempt to twist the expressed intent of what was said. There was no way a woman with this much magical power and prestige could not understand the obvious suspicion of someone not wishing to be found, to have themselves found and nonetheless approached. The scarred martial adept looked back to the woman before her as she settled in her seat more, then to the man across the table who at last removed his heels from atop the fine wooden table, waving off the words that clouded the air. Leaning in, arms upon his broad and muscular chest, he directed his commentary at the house's master of whom might just become his employer. "It is poor form not to lay out the details early. And we've yet to hear what the reward will be, should we conquer these, uh, great dangers." There was one thing to be said for working in the business of bloody trade and that would be the directness was a saving grace. Diagorides however, neglected one factor which the former ranger was not about to ignore; who were these people? This fractured order? This "witch"? The notion alone of providing such a supposedly powerful stone was not a comforting one, but if her intentions were truly noble this seemed as though it would have been noted before. Before much else was said, the dark jowls curved, revealing deadly fangs as they moved to form words beneath the tawny muzzle, "These orders... who and what are they, or should I say were, until this point?" She turned not her body, instead only her left, golden, stalwart eye glared from its corner to Lady Genevieve, to which she continued after in speech; searching for a response both verbally and behaviorally. "And what matter is this 'traitorous assassin' to us, or 'witchling' as you so called it?" If she, this "witch" or "witchling", were such a problem, looking to remove either the band of adventurers or their employer and perhaps them both, what was so bad as to let her come? If she had the artifact so desired, what was the danger? Supposedly it did nothing by itself, and for that matter, even if she lacked it, what harm was there in eliminating her were she so dangerous to the objective? Again, the lack of explanation was not selling the half-beast upon the notion anything associated with the Lady Genevieve was worth its obscure trouble. Looking back to Diagorides she blinked thoughtfully, hoping the man would catch upon the innuendo of her point. Not that she thought he would care, but that the quest presented seemed... unusually shady, even for mercenaries based upon the circumstances at hand. If he was wishing to make his pay, as he seemed so adamant about, she hoped he would begin debating the same matters as well. It was from there however, she looked to the two knightly men - attempting to avoid eye contact with the faun or halfling as now was not the time to settle the subtle issues of earlier. She sized up the boy made noble soldier first, knowing his involvement in this matter was as fresh as hers was, looking over him with the same careful glare of an animal assessing its prey. After confirming this, based upon the demeanor the lady of the house had, she looked to the other one, carrying on with her words. "Unless of course you can provide more detail than what is being said already, Hepburnberg." Sakaala directed, having keenly been aware of the behavior that was ushered toward him just a few moments past. She did not truly expect him to know, she simply wished to judge the way their host would react to the misdirection of conversation.	Name: "Sakaala" Referring to herself as "Sakaala", it is unknown what her name truly is, but there exists reason enough to believe that her assumed name has apparent symbolism, most likely amongst those familiar to her fallen people who placed great value in the meaning of all things, most importantly those belonging to themselves. For those in the know of obscure and arcane cultural history, she is "the finality" or more simply "the last (whole) one", a sobering title that is not only accurate but most disheartening. Species: Monstrous Humanoid The origin and types of monstrous humanoids vary greatly, with some being the product of twisted arcane magic unchecked to others being the work of some divine force. They range from the more "common", as with the minotaur, centaur or harpy, to the more exotic and rare. Sakaala, as well as those who once made up her people, bordered the spectrum of the latter more than the former, being mostly obscure but recorded comparatively well. However, the question of what created a small number of lionmen abroad the realm is unknown, but their kind existed like many monsters before the Age of Mortals, near certainly having an origin many ancient eras past. Only in recent times has this rare bloodline, as with many other unusual beings of similar sorts, all but disappeared after prolonged hunting of "aberrants" by paranoid mortals in the wake of the near successful invasion of the plane. Age: 47 Although longer lived than most mortal men by virtue of unnatural blood, Sakaala is no youth and certainly no longer in her prime. In spite of these things, as with her natural relatives, she is a remarkable example of longevity which has been extended yet by dabbling in arcane arts and an incredible will to survive. Description: Sakaala is distinct in just race alone; owing both to her incredible scale among mortal men, at the height of horse of twenty-two hands, and her overtly leonine features of which are only vaguely humanoid in nature and otherwise quite savage. Her dense sand tone hide is badly scarred about the right of her body, bearing some wounds of which were so visibly savage that even magical aid has not wholly righted them, but the most notable being the blindness of her right eye. While no less lame in the right arm than blind in the right eye, almost entirely numb, she retains its use by sense of self alone. Ambidextrous in response because of this weakness, her tendency to shore up vulnerabilities is remarkable. She distinctly conceals the worst of her injuries beneath her partial robe, and outside of the obvious blindness of an eye, her body is in remarkable condition for a female of her growing age, violent history and having bore offspring in previous. While not overtly robust, her musculature is still visible and her strength measurably stronger than many men. Instead of these qualities, she is more remembered for the gold that is the color of her eyes, barring the blindness; they are akin to portals of lingering sadness and fierce resolve - the same lament of failure and animal cry of defiance entwined. Minimalist in her armoring, Sakaala bears a well worn mithral breastplate upon her chest and a matching pauldron and bracer to her weaker arm, ending it in a fingerless leather glove. Beneath her limited armor she dresses in the remnants of an aged arcanist's robe that ends just beneath her sizable bust, rolling it at the shoulder upon the right limb and let loose upon her strong left arm; the formerly black material having faded to a dusted grey. It, like the rest of her regalia, is undoubtedly salvaged from a fallen friend or a fallen foe, becoming both a prize and a memento. Upon her waist fits a wide tribal belt and battered sash keeping rolled, pressed leather leggings that are accompanied by a pair of slender, exotic daggers worn at the thigh about her lower half. While the belt she adorns herself was once common to her kind, they exist now only as prizes in the hands of grim collectors. Worn about her neck hangs a morbid reminder of her enemy's hatred for her people - a collection of fangs and claws - which was most certainly pried from the cold, dead grasp of one of her felled foes of which is accompanied by another, not nearly minor trinket; a decorative necklace of polished black stone upon a humble leather loop adorned with smaller decorative pieces. Not keen to speak of the second of the two pieces of finery, she often counts the poached points of her other necklace. Bearing a true hand-and-a-half elven blade of indeterminate age as her favored weapon, it is uncertain if it were a tool of conflict initially her own or one which she liberated from her would-be killers. Forged of the rare ore mithral, it is polished to an exquisite silvery shine instead of dulled with age about the fine of the blade. Despite its characteristic remarkable lightness and finesse, the weapon is truly designed to be wielded with both hands by its bearer, yet Sakaala's great scale and greater strength allows her to wield it with deadly ease in a single pawed hand. Unnervingly, so much as drawing the blade - let alone swinging it - sets it to ring faintly in a short lived but soft harmonic hum, but more than anything the bite of the sword itself leaves such keen blows that they are almost unsettling to look upon. Personality and Alignment: Neutral Good The benevolent matriarch, her inherently motherly animal nature follows her strongly with the incredible violence, that both magical and mundane, which she is capable of should she or those she considers her own be threatened. Kindly even toward those wary of her, her wrath is not easily provoked, but no threats made against her or those she views as companions are considered just idle. Perhaps unconsciously she tends to the wounded, acquires fresh provisions, and stays awake during watches all to ensure the continued survival of her adoptive company. Aging as she is, she has embraced the role of a vizier and sage, providing great insight and wisdom to those who inquire upon her. No friend of evil and abiding by her own sense of morality, she is best described as an intellectual and spiritual benefactor. Skills/Abilities: Lore Expertise Having lived such a varied and long life has graced Sakaala with many skills, the most notable is her vast knowledge upon matters ranging from historical events to distant locales, from to forces of nature to arcane mysteries. Self taught, her incredible recollection is imperfect and incomplete, but more often than not her acquired lore is relevant. She specializes in the intellectual categories of arcana, history, nature and locales with little greater knowledge on other matters. Martial Adept There are those who achieve martial proficiency through strength of arms alone and then there are those who acquire combat superiority by raw skill. Sakaala's inhuman strength and agility lend well to life lived by the sword, but it is her intuition, intelligence and force of personality that truly make her a deadly foe as she not only understands the principals of conflict, but actively anticipates them with preternatural skill. This so called "blade-magic" is a blend of martial arts, mysticism, and swordplay - at times engaging in impossible feats martial through magic and at others achieved by intense discipline and practice alone. Sakaala makes up for her disabilities by simply being more skillful and magically inclined than most her foes. Bolstering Presence While Sakaala is present, her mere warrior nature supernaturally inspires mental resolve and great courage in the face of fear among herself and allies. Effects that attack the mind are weakened, and attempts to intimidate or cause fear are dampened heavily as the body, emotion, mind, and spirit are made hardened against such effects. Perfect Mind Honed by intense exposure to offensive magic, Sakaala's force of personality provides her immense leverage against mind-affecting effects. The bane of charms, enchantments and illusions, she often rapidly comes to her senses, especially in the heat of battle or when her companions are threatened. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Steel Wind This maneuver involves a sudden turn of the blade that lands an otherwise singular blow against one target to also connect with another. A difficult attack to employ in the hands of the untrained, its uncanny speed and incredible finesse work are further augmented by Sakaala's ambidexterity, making her a deadly foe against numbers of enemies, especially the lightly armored. This attack is effectively a single attack against multiple targets. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Wall of Blades The agility Sakaala can display for brief periods of time even without her magic is unsettling. With lightning speed, Sakaala can counter a single melee or ranged attack, blocking or deflecting the worst of the blow with her own weapon, even in the worst of scenarios with precognition-like intuition. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Seasoned Ranger A born predator, Sakaala was one of many huntresses of her people, no less acting as a wildlands warrior in times of danger when threatened. Having survived alone from these skills for years, she is an able huntress and would be considered expert in the wilderness, capable of even eluding enemies and striking unexpectedly in natural environments. Of her practical skills, she is a trained gatherer of flora and fauna thus able to provide for herself and others in the ways of naturally provided rations, traditional medicine, pure water and various feats of outdoorsmanship. She is difficult to track when being followed and hardly inhibited by natural terrain. Magic: Channel Spell The ability to cast magical spells and effects is no small wonder even in a world where magic is possibility, but the power to do so while accompanying martial maneuvers is another great feat altogether. Able to channel some of her spells through her natural and weapon attacks, she unleashes devastating blows that inflict a variety of other effects on the victims of the attack. Working in conjunction with her supernatural martial arts, she can perform these abilities often in unexpected ways such as casting a single spell and striking multiple foes with its effects at once. She is not only limited to a small selection of spells to channel a day, but cannot do so extensively without becoming exhausted mentally. Bladeweave A swing of the sword moves with awesome magical grace and almost rhythmic perfection while giving off glints of faint light. Any creature unfortunate enough to be struck might find itself briefly dazed for a moment of hesitation by the fascinating magical swordsmanship exhibited. Creatures that have already been dazed are just as likely to be dazed again, but those resistant to illusions are not likely to be so awed. Combustion A corona of roiling heated air sheathes the blade, leaving waves of intense heat in the wake. A creature or object struck by the weapon discharges the spell, causing the target to instantly ignite in a personal inferno and setting them intensely ablaze for a moment before the magical flames vanish. If hasty or fortunate, a creature can extinguish the lingering non-magical flames left behind - if not careful, they continue to burn with mundane fire until its fuel is exhausted or its air is cut off. Enfeeblement An ominous dark green glimmer envelops the weapon's blade and is discharged upon successful strike, magically debilitating the muscular strength of the victim. Each instance of crippled physical might is additive, and creatures depleted of their strength are temporarily paralyzed and rendered helpless. Their lost strength returns minutes later after the last blow endured. Fatiguing A faint dullness and aura of immaterial grey shrouds the weapon's blade and is discharged upon a successful blow. The so affected creature is overcome by fatigue, slowing its physical strength and reflexes greatly, but most notably leaving it tired and unable to run. The weight of their debilitation is brief, lasting only a few prolonged moments and once the effects wear off, they are no worse for wear because of it. Shocking A scatter of sparks and silent cyan-white lightning shudder about the sword's length, pulling it more accurately toward metal targets. Upon striking, the magical effect discharges with a dull localized clap of thunder and the target is struck by a mighty burst of lightning from the weapon, jarring them. This channeled effect is much more likely to land upon metal targets than those not bearing much metal. True Strike A bearer of a weapon to be imbued takes a brief moment to gain precognative insight into their next attack, greatly increasing its likelihood to land, yet this strength comes at the cost of denying the caster action for a moment. Now enchanted for its next blow, it ignores both magical and practical forms of concealment and seems to find the weakest point in the target's defenses. Once it strikes, the benefit ends and the aura of perfect clarity is gone. Wraithstrike A phantasmal air surrounds the now shimmering blade which is sheathed in ghostly wisps. For a brief moment, it strikes with deathly accuracy, penetrating conventional defenses such as armor or even benefits such as magical deflectiveness, needing only to merely touch the victim to deal its damage in full as though it were a spirit. Upon striking, the effect ends and the weapon returns to its normal qualities. Natural Sorceress As a creature born of magic, the very essence of latent power lies within Sakaala and those that were like her, infused with every ounce of their person. It is from this obscure pool that she draws upon, evoking sorcerous power on whim, but having deeply specialized in doing so; her repertoire of magical spells not vast or complex, but instead practical and martial. She blends the martial arts and swordplay with her magic instead of casting traditional spells by and far, although she can indeed manifest some purely magic effects. Traditionally, few monstrous humanoids are able mages - instead relying upon their natural superiority to combat magical and mundane threats through sheer force and intuition. Sakaala, in spite of these things and the taboos of her now lost society, has taken up arcane power to compensate for her debilitation and growing age. It is known that many mortals are driven mad by arcane power with time, but many monsters seem no worse for wear. As with all sorcerers, Sakaala's magic depletes throughout the day when she expends it. Recovering her inherent energy when she rests for a prolonged time, she relies upon measured application of mystic force so not to expend all of her magic in a short time although she is capable of doing so. Least (0th) Arcane Mark, Amanuensis, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Read Magic, Touch of Fatigue Lesser (1st) Nerveskitter, Shocking Grasp, Truestrike, Ray of Enfeeblement Common (2nd) Combust, Bladeweave, Wraithstrike Great (3rd) Haste, Dispel Magic Arcane Mark A visible or invisible permanent mark of magical enchantment is placed upon the target without causing harm. If placed upon a creature, it fades with time over a month. When invisible, it requires a creature that can see invisibility to notice the mark. Otherwise only an effect that detects magic renders the mark visible, but one must be able to read magic as well to understand its meaning, if it even has one. Amanuensis An invisible force, when provided with text to read and parchment, begins transcribing the mundane words of another work. The force continues to generate the copied text word for word on to the initially blank parchment, skipping any illustrations and magical enchantments it encounters in its work, leaving their locations empty. While it does not translate the writings, should they be in a language not understood, it does continue to copy them until its duration ends or it pauses, awaiting more parchment. Detect Magic The viewer can visually detect magical effects within their line of sight, out to a short distance as glowing radiation. If they wish to concentrate they may separate different auras and determine their strength, and with further concentration attempt to determine the specific spell effect that is active. Powerful magical effects and creatures leave lingering auras, and appear more distinctly upon focus. Dispel Magic A powerful, brief burst of nullifying magic affects a creature or object, or dispels an area instantly of any temporary magical effects and interrupts ongoing ones or those being cast. The dispelling affect always targets the most powerful spells first, then attempts to remove the progressively weaker ones of its target. Against a creature casting a spell, this effect causes the spell to immediately fail to cast. Haste The caster and nearby allies blur with sudden, lightning fast alacrity, moving with intense speed and reflexes. Their attacks become so rapid they are a near blur of motion, and their movement causes them to shimmer with enchanted speed. Striking more accurately and evading more rapidly, this effect lasts only a few intense prolonged moments. Mage Hand An invisible force may manipulate objects through concentration as though it were an extension of its master. Although capable of only lifting light objects, it has the full functionality of a phantasmal hand free of a body, giving it great range of motion. A form of very limited magical psychokinesis, its range is short and it disperses to nothing if it travels far. Message A distant conversation may be held at a whispered tone, sent to a small number of selected creatures. Although each may reply individually, the visibly spoken words are sent to all affected individuals. It bypasses line of sight, limited out to several hundred feet, but is stopped by magical silence, dense metal or stone, or several feet of earth or wood. The words spoken are identical to what is being said and do not transcend language barriers. Nerveskitter An icy rush races through the blood of the affected individual, spurring them to act or react to danger well before they regularly would be capable. Immediate in effect and its casting, it gives the the creature great precognition for but a moment, allowing them to act with greater initiative. Although limited in range out to a short distance, it heightens the senses and reactions greatly for a crucial few seconds. Prestidigitation This effect can generate a wide array of more minor effects, of which are humble yet practical uses of magic. They range from cleaning to dirtying an object, creating minor levitation in small objects, chill or warm slightly, ignite or extinguish mundane flames, create small fragile objects or play ethereal musical notes, and so forth. While it cannot duplicate stronger spells, it perhaps can evoke the illusion of greater magic at play. Read Magic Enabling a reader to explicitly read magically concealed text, it can be used to translate runes, scrolls, symbols and other forms of enchanted text. It does not invoke any latent magical effect of the writing, but it allows the reader to no longer require the ability to read that enchanted text through magic, giving them inherent understanding of it. Backstory: Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary By "The Mage", quoted from "Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary", Chapter VI "On the Subject of Sakaala" "Hunter, warrior, arcanist - over the span of a lifetime one has many varied roles that they might confront, but few ever live them so fully as to explore them in their entirety. She however, has. Undeniably left with the signs of terrible wounds past, most notably the blindness of her right eye and blatant lameness of the right arm, she has endured trials no one, be them man or beast, should be forced to confront alone. Born an exceptional huntress but appointed a warrior, she served loyally on behalf of her scarce peoples, keeping grim threats beyond, those we do not suffer, at bay. Although she, as with select others among her lot, served admirably on behalf man, not all men were so approving. It was in this she was forced to fight to the last beside those who had become her sisters on an ever losing front, but for all of her skill even she too was felled. She too has felt the bite of defeat... all the more memorable than that of victory. She does not speak to us about what became of her children, but when you look upon her eyes you see that same hurt of someone with nothing left to her in this world. It is for these reasons she turned to things most men believe left better unknown - the arcane. For one reason or another, perhaps because she is not of mortal stock, she has acquired the capacity to wield this mystic thing as any other weapon. She has made her body, and even her blade, its conduit. It is all almost a direct extension of herself, the way in which she flows like graceful death both natural and magical; the manner in which she ably adapts her styles, be them as subtle as her favored hand to the placement of her feet, even in her age. I wonder if she is truly satisfied now, watching over us like our matriarch - some relic of a dead people - blessing us with kindness we cannot possibly repay. After all, what could we offer her? We are but mere men; arrogant, brash, foolish and young. What really drives her to aid us in the heat of conflict or tend to our wounds thereafter? A motherhood she still lives vicariously? Whatever the reason, she has more than earned my faith in her; my admiration for her."
55,689	1,527	25	276	729	Regina listened intently to the questions asked and answers given. When it was revealed that the traitor "witchling" was one that had traveled with them in Waeldeshore, she began thinking. "Genevieve." she said loudly, floating towards her. "Let me see her." She gave a light push to the woman's mind, though not deep enough to actually see anything. "Let me see the traitor." If their host accepted, Regina would look to see the traitor. Seeing who the traitor was, she would become very angry, many of the smaller objects around her lifting a couple inches before dropping with her. If Genevieve declined, she would land with a frown and a glare, knowing that the traitor, whoever they were, was going to be revealed soon enough. Either way, she would stomp over to the window and stare out it, thinking about the traitor's motivations.	Name: Regina Hills Species: Halfling Age: 57 Description: Regina is a bit tall for a halfling, a whole six inches taller than the average of 3 feet, with long, reddish brown hair and chocolatey brown eyes. She has a pale complexion and a few small wrinkles, preferring to stay in the shade, and a thin but curvy figure that is slowly catching up with her age. Regina wears a thin layer of leather armor over her clothes with multiple daggers hidden on her and a pair of longtooth daggers on her hips. Regina carries no less than 20 throwing daggers, 10 normal daggers and a pair of longtooth daggers on her at any time. Personality: Regina is the type of woman to flirt with some of the younger women though nothing too far as she doesn't want to be left again. She's easy to anger if you say the wrong thing. However, she does keep her anger under control while at work. She's no longer the happy-go-lucky woman she once was, instead taking everything carefully and not letting anyone close again. Skills/Abilities: Regina has great aim with her throwing daggers and is proficient with her normal daggers to block and redirect, allowing her to use her longtooth daggers, with their little extra length, to attack. She can also pick locks, pick pockets, find and remove traps, track people, most any skill a thief would find very helpful. Other than that, she is an excellent with her psionic powers, allowing her to do many things most people cannot. -Combat Mind: Using this, she has a clear understanding of where her allies and enemies are. -Telekinesis: She can levitate most objects though nothing bigger than a small human male for more than a couple minutes. -Levitation: She can lift herself up to 12 feet from whatever she's standing on. -Complete Healing: With a 12-hour meditation process, she can heal herself of all injuries, illnesses, poisons and the like. -Quick Healing: With a matter of a few minutes and a lot of concentration, she can heal her small injuries, though nothing bigger than a small cut. -Adrenaline Control: By controlling the production and release of adrenaline in her system, she can give herself a temporary physical boost on demand. -Body Weaponry: Using this, she can turn her hands into dagger blades or go as far as her elbow for a shortsword blade. -Displacement: She can control where people see her, whether or not she moves. -Teleport: With this, she can teleport up to 200 feet away in the blink of an eye, with loud popping sounds emitting from both the place she teleports from and to. -Telepathy: Using this, she is able to communicate wordlessly with another intelligent being without having to worry about language barriers. -Daydream: She can cause another person's mind to wander, allowing her to pick their pockets and get away safely with a lower chance of getting caught. Magic: She has no magic though some have commented her psionics are similar. Backstory: Regina was raised in a big halfling city, well as big a city as the halflings would build, with her numerous siblings. The only way she could stand out in her family enough to be remembered was the fact that, at a young age, she could make apples fly to her hand. She had practically never spent any time at home once she was old enough and had gotten caught picking locks and grabbing an apple for a snack. She had eventually decided, after nearly having her hand chopped off for the thousandth time, to leave the city and find a better life. She soon was found by a thieves' guild that took her in and began training her. She spent the next 15 years in the guild, training as hard as she could to get faster and stronger though her strength didn't improve by much. They found out about her psionic skills rather quickly and, being only the second psionic in the guild, learned from an older man who taught her how to teleport, heal small wounds, levitate items other than apples, such as herself, and so on. After her training was finished, she began traveling again, ending up in Waeldeshore. It was there she met a group that was going to be fighting a dragon. She decided to join them, supplying the team with a lot of jerky during their travel to the cave. They ended up stealing a magic artifact from a sleeping dragon, one of two in that particular cave and escaping rather quickly. Upon arriving back at the town, most of them decided to spend the night. Regina offered to share a room with one of the more beautiful, yet still a bit scary, women on the team. When she awoke, however, she saw her ally was gone. She had searched for days but the trail was cold and she couldn't follow what she couldn't find. Instead, she decided to go east. She went far east, ending up in a land much different than what she was used to a year later. It was there she met another halfling woman, a bard who instantly captured her heart. She traveled with the bard, acting as her bodyguard for a decade and a half until she was injured badly. She was unconscious for days as she slowly healed herself from nearly dying but, when she awoke, the bard was gone. She asked around but nobody had seen the halfling bard around in days. She had been abandoned again. With nothing else to do, she returned to the west. It took 4 years to travel back, as she had done other jobs along the way to distract her, but she eventually returned to Wealdeshore. With not much else to do, she became a guard for one of the local pubs. It's been 5 years since her return and, in that time, she's proven to be a great asset as well as a new resident for the foreseeable future.
55,690	1,527	26	1,153	95	Ionathan could not help but smile back at Genevieve as she smiled at him, he could not remember a time when she had ever smiled before, she had always seemed to have a cold personality but at that instance she had nothing of the sort. At the mention of the traitor, Ionathan narrowed is eyes and his free hand clenched into a fist. He despised traitors, those who would betray their friends and companions, those who would break every oath that they swore in order to gain some petty desire. But this traitor had not only betrayed her comrades, but also betrayed the forces of good in this world. "Unless of course you can provide more detail than what is being said already, Hepburnberg." Placing his Sallet on the table along with his leather gloves he straightened his back, his hands clasped behind his back. He shook his head "I'm afraid I know little about this incident, I was with the guard launching dawn raids on demonic cults that had spawned up over Waeldeshore. I only know that Genevieve had a little...confrontation with the women in question only because a local reported it as a civil disturbance. Although, I might know who she was." He was going to ask why Genevieve had not gone to the guard for help in pursuing her stolen property but cast the thought aside, if the women is question was the one he thought she was, then asking the guard for help would have been a waste of time. Ionathan was about to take a guess to who the witch was when Regina floated to Genevieve and asked to let her see the traitor. Using one hand to rub his forehead Ionathan turned to Regina. "You know, you could just ask who she was rather than invading her mind."	Name: Ionathan Hepburnberg Race: Half-Elf Description: Tall, Honourable,kind-hearted, mid 30s human age appearance. Age: 53 Gender: Male Appearance: Dark Green eyes under black eyebrows and short, black hair. At 6 foot 1 Ionathan is above average height for humans and easily stands out with his sharp, elven like features including elf like ears but more rounded and less pronounced, he has a Light skin colour with a small scar on his right cheekbone Clothing/Armor: A Tabard with the Hepburnberg Coat of arms over a mail shirt with padding underneath. He has a few satchels upon his belt consisting of first aid supplies. Atop his head is a sallet with a padded lether cap underneath. On casual days, Ionathan wears a plain brown tunic. Weapons: Ionathan wields a bastard sword that is usually equiped with his shield that he carries on his back with a Guige when it's not equiped. The shield is a standard heater shield with the Hepburnberg heraldry for a coat of arms. Skills/Abilities: An experience fighter-Ionathan's experience in the army has not left him as he remembers the battles he was in and how to take on opponents of different measure. Discipline and Obedience- As part of his soldier training the iron discipline is still embedded in Ionathan's mind. Ionathan knows basic first aid with some advance understanding of the significance of wounds. Backstory: With a human father and a elven mother Ionathan got to learn about both human and elven cultures from an early age. However, His father was a wealthy landowner so his marriage to an elf was most scandalous, this left Ionathan with a resentment of the nobility and few friends. Ionathan in his childhood and adolescents spent his time reading and received a good education via private tutors. When the war broke out Ionathan had just reached Adulthood and being in a noble family he was enlisted as an officer cadet, Ionathan's training at the officers training camp was harsh but effective, at the start he was like any other who had just reached adult hood, full of energy and always cheerful, but by the end he was a disciplined and skilled officer who acted with knowledge and calculation rather than gut feeling. After The training he was assigned to be a Lieutenant of the 35th regiment of foot where he served throughout the war. The 35th served with valor and duty with their most famous action taking place when a strike force went to strike a supply town near the border and the 35th held the road despite repeated enemy assaults until reinforcements arrived, the officers were personally kissed on the cheeks by the ruling official of the town and were offered the best rooms in the taverns while the regiment was resupplied. After the war Ionathan adopted a girl made orphaned by the war and settled down and bought a cosy 2 bedroomed house in Waeldeshore were he became a guard for the town. Over the years he reflected on his life in the army while growing to like the town and became a respected by his colleagues and the town for his by the book approach to handling situations and his good relation with the Guard Captain. Throughout the years he made sure that his daughter was given the best education he could afford her with his salary, even on the weekends giving lessons himself. He remains in close contact with his parents who visit every month. Ionathan is looking forward to a life of keeping law and order while letting time heal the wounds of war. After the "happening" at Waeldeshore, Ionathan took over the family estate in the countryside and established it as a fine farming estate. The workers being retired soldiers and victims of the happenings, live in accommodation around the estate and although the pay is modest, Ionathan provides food, warmth and shelter for those who have suffered. Ionathan put aside his sword and picked up the pen becoming Commissioner of Justice, reforming the guard into a more professional law enforcement body. Being part of a noble family Ionathan was put through an arranged marriage with was easy to arrange due to the fame he gained in fighting the demons, while the couple are not a "lovey dovey" pair they both love each other dearly and have enjoyed there years of marriage which soon gave them a son. Ionathan’s Adopted daughter was accepted by Ionathan’s wife with open arms and now has become the state ambassador traveling around the world promoting friendship and trade between nations. One day Ionathan received a strange letter from Genevieve calling him to once more take up arms, Ionathan immediately informed his wife of the letter and his intent to leave. Although leaving his wife and child to themselves weighted heavy in Ionathan’s heart, he departed several days later. Alignment- Lawful good
55,691	1,527	27	2,620	2,551	The sage continued at length about her order and how she was most likely the last of her people. She explained more about the artifact in question, and the gravity of the situations that it could cause if put in the wrong hands. She then spoke of a traitor, to which Emil immediately looked up at her with attention, concern. Could one of the Heroes of Waeldeshore have been a traitor? The idea of any of the heroes from Waeldeshore being untrustworthy or unnoble spat in the face of almost all of the stories he had heard about them in his childhood. He shot a glance of doubt at Sir Hepburnberg for a moment, before quickly shaking his head and dashing all the unease from his mind. Impossible, Sir Hepburnberg was a model soldier, a man that countless young men from both Waeldeshore and Edessa looked up to. Just because one of the heroes had become corrupted didn't mean that the rest of them would be. Some of the others discussed the identity of the traitor. Emil noticed the beast-kin staring him down, and almost shrank in his seat. The stare was unnerving, inhuman, and rested on him for several moments before the beast-kin Sakaala asked Sir Hepburnberg questions regarding the rogue hero. Unlike the others, the man Ajax comparatively seemed unconcerned by the notion of the traitor. In fact, he seemed rather unimpressed by the entire situation, requesting further information about their possible monetary gain and their exact duties regarding their foes. If it weren't for the fact that he bore no weapons and wore no armor, Emil might have written him off as every other sellsword in the land. And while the man Ajax certainly had his points, he had all the subtlety of a charging lancer crashing through a library. Emil continued listening to the others, deciding not to put his own input in this time- he had no desire to appear ignorant or misguided about the current goings on, and didn't know enough about the situation to just spout out his own opinions.	Name: Emil Erran Species: Human Age: 18 Description: Emil is a young man standing in at about 5'10" in height, with the build of an athlete- or at least one used to continuous physical exertion. While not the pinnacle of strength and endurance, Emil is in good fighting shape, and his body is sinewy and lithe. He has a few scars on his body- though none of them are from combat. His eyes are a deep green, and his blonde hair is typically short and out of the way. His typical attire is a deep blue tunic, with thick trousers, and well worn leather boots and gloves. In combat, he wears a cuirass to protect his upper chest, while still allowing him full range of motion while mounted, reinforced with tough leather, along with armor on his boots, sides, shoulders and forearms. Personality: Warm and kind-hearted, Emil is a modest young knight with a strong sense of morality and justice. This level headed knight tries his best to stay brave and rational in the face of hardship and adversity, despite his inexperience. Due to his young age, Emil is rather impressionable, and expresses a desire to learn various skills and tricks from the older veterans, though is often self conscious about his lesser skills when compared to that of the more experienced members of the group. Honest and trustworthy, Emil is compassionate and kind, if a little shy and soft-spoken. Loyal to a fault, Emil is more than willing to risk himself for the sake of others, and goes to great lengths to defend his loved ones. A very down to earth and grounded individual, Emil's calm and generally positive demeanor, while occasionally bordering on naivety, bolsters the spirits of those around him. Skills/Abilities: As a young Knight, Emil is well trained in multiple martial skills, but lacks field experience. He has fought alongside his lord-knight, while still a squire and is no stranger to battle, but is not what one would call a veteran. While young, and not as capable of an armsman as the rest of his older peers, Emil possesses worldly knowledge and skills unexpected from one his age, and is knowledgeable of a variety of skills in various fields. --- Martial Skills --- Adept Swordsmanship - As the son of a knight, and a knight himself, Emil has received martial training in various fields, and is capable with many weapons, but shows the most promise with a sword. Skilled enough to face down a common soldier or an untrained fighter and coming out no worse for wear, Emil struggles against more hardened and experienced foes. Journeyman Spearmanship - Along with his swordsmanship, Emil has received training with the spear and lance, though it is clear he shows a preference to the sword. His stance and form are solid, and the spear is by nature, an easy weapon to pick up and use. He lacks the refinement of a master spearman, but can still use it with relative effectiveness. Journeyman Archery - Alongside his other martial skills, Emil has also been trained in the use of the bow and arrow. He is neither particularly fast, nor particularly accurate with the bow, and is for all intents and purposes, average. He does slightly better with a crossbow, and primarily utilizes this skill for hunting. Journeyman Horseback Riding - As a knight, Emil is trained on how to ride a horse, take care of a horse, and fight from a horse, though it is clear that he would prefer to do combat while on the ground. Stamina stemming from his youthfulness allows him to ride for hours without considerable exhaustion. Trained Armor use - Years of training have taught Emil how to quickly don and remove plate armor, and can thus move with more dexterity and quickness than one without training would be able to. He is also well versed on the care of plate armor. Trained Shield use - Several years of training has shown Emil how to properly brace and use a shield to block and deflect blows. As he is not the largest presence on the battlefield, when faced with larger foes, Emil primarily relies on deflecting and sidestepping enemy blows rather than attempting to completely stop or black oncoming attacks --- Trade Skills --- Journeyman Cooking - While not a master chef by any meaning of the word, Emil is resourceful and can cook a variety of meals with what little resources are often available while in the field. Journeyman Surgery/First Aid - Unable to treat wounds via magic, Emil has been trained and is experienced with treating a variety of minor and moderate wounds, and is even capable of some surgery for more serious wounds. These treatments are not magic, and do not mend wounds instantly- nor do they guarantee the successful mending of wounds, but can serve to stave off death until more experienced doctors or healers can provide aid. Journeyman Crafting - From tailoring and needlework, to leather-working, Emil, while not particularly amazing at any craftsman's trade, is skilled enough to make field repairs to clothing and armor. Magic Emil has no skill or control over magic, though it appears that he may have the affinity for magic. He views magic with suspicion and a small amount of fear, and while he has accepted magic as a facet of life, he is still unnerved by it. Backstory: The city of Edessa is a fair sized city-state located along the coast of __(mainland continent neighboring Silver Lily Isles)__. Edessa is a constitutional monarchy led primarily by the King, and a group of senators. It is not a major military power, but is known for its high quality knights and sturdy and reliable trade ships, and also contributed a large portion of its forces Mage-Wars decades ago. Edessa, due to its proximity to the Silver Lily Isles, often trades with the settlements on the Isle, most notably Waeldeshore. Edessa and Waeldeshore have built a rather positive trade relationship over the past two decades, and ships bearing Edessan flags are common in Waeldeshore and vice versa. Emil, youngest son of the Erran family, comes from a long line of Edessan Knights. Emil, like the rest of his brothers were introduced to the lifestyle of a knight at a young age, and were immersed in their culture from the moment he could walk. The son of a Edessan Knight and his wife, Emil and his brothers were well educated at a young age and were taught manners as well as basic martial skills and knowledges as children. Throughout their childhood, Emil and his brothers would often venture into the city to play with other children. Emil made friends easily, and was known for his gentle and sensitive demeanor, while the rest of his brothers were respected for their various other qualities. As they Erran children grew older, they were trained in the ways of various weapons, such as the spear and sword, and were trained in horsemanship and riding. After his seventh birthday, Emil was apprenticed to another noble family to serve as a page, where he would begin to further refine horsemanship and swordsmanship as well as learn the intricacies of reading and writing. A naturally perceptive and relatively intelligent child, Emil was treated well by his host family, and learned much under their tutelage. The Knights of Edessa, or the Edessan Knights as many know them as, are an order of knights based in the city of Edessa. These knights are tasked with serving and protecting the people of Edessa, and often promote humanitarian movements to hunting monsters in the surrounding areas. These stalwart warriors are well known for both their valor and martial skill, despite their relatively small numbers. Every male member of the Erran family had been an Edessan Knight at one point in their life. Emil's brother is among the famed members of the Edessan Knights, and one of the King's personal guards. Each of Emil's brothers has already entered service in the order. As he turned 14, he became squire to a famed Edessan Knight, where he furthered his training, continuing his work on bladesmanship and horsemanship, as well as learning archery, music, speech, and skills befitting a young knight. Here he learned how to take care of, and maintain armor, how to tend horses and treat wounds. The next several years were difficult, his knight was fair, but strict, and offered him nothing but the most difficult challenges to face. Now a fresh 18 years old, Emil's journey to become a full fledged knight of Edessan has been completed, and Emil undertakes his first few journeys as his own knight. A message from the Great Sage Genevieve of Waeldeshore gives Emil his first taste of an adventure that he can call his own. Possessions, Equipment, Weapons: Father's Sword - A gift given to Emil by his father, upon his recent knighting. The sword is forged from Dwarven Steel- a special dwarven metallurgy technique that results in a tougher, denser, more durable steel. The blade is old and worn from use, but still remains a reliable weapon. A shorter than average bastard sword, it is light and maneuverable enough to be held in one hand, but its two handed grip makes it able to be wielded with two. Common Spear - A 6 foot pole of ash wood, with a steel tip attached. One of the most common personal weapons in the world, this weapon is easily used, and easily replaced. Able to be wielded with one hand, but most effective with two. Shortbow & Quiver - A short yew bow meant for hunting. Plain and simple, without any sort of frills, other than leather wrapping around the grip. A wooden and leather quiver contains 20 arrows. Both are typically stored on the outer saddlebags of Emil's horse. Heater Shield - A mid-sized shield with the Erran family coat of arms emblazoned across it. It is a lightweight metal shield that can be strapped to the forearm and secured with the hand. It has a leather strap that allows it to be slung over the shoulder/worn over the back. Edessan Half Plate - a cut down suit of plate armor generally utilized by mounted Edessan knights and soldiers. Plates protect major parts of the body, while the rest of the body is protected with tough leather and mail under a tunic. This is to allow light weight, and greater mobility while mounted. The benefits confer to foot combat as well. Roark, Horse - A well bred, multi-purpose horse ridden by Emil. Roark is a calm, well mannered horse, that doesn't scare easily. Roark wears boiled leather barding(armor) on his face, neck, and body. The barding is lightweight, and can protect Roark from glancing blows but doesn't provide much protection elsewise. Its still better than nothing, Emil argues. Roark also has saddlebags on his sides and behind the saddle. Roark's saddlebags contain: A pair of leather waterskins, a small pouch with money, a tinderbox, lines and tackle for fishing, a small iron bowl for cooking, a small hatchet for wood gathering, a small knife and whetstone, a length of rope (approx. 30 feet), a spool of fine thread and needle, a roll of clean cloth and bottle of spirits for cleaning and treating wounds, a pouch of herbal ointment, a lantern with several spare candles, a few days worth of provisions for Emil as well as his horse. Behind the saddle is a blanket and spare clothes are wrapped in a roll of canvas.
55,692	1,527	28	1,054	1,812	Genevieve grumbled softly as she looked in Regina's direction. As the hin attempted to enter her mind, the woman would've snapped back, with a loud roar of a voice that only Regina could hear. "You did this once before, never do it again!" "You know,you could just ask who she was rather than invading her mind." The knight spoke up. Genevieve sighed and closed her eyes, attempting to regain her composure. "Her name is Isabeau Falkenrath. Her mother was descendant of a high witch, the leader of one of the deadliest clans of this realm. I call her a 'witchling' as she is only half, her father was human. The clan had her father killed, and her mother died not too long after giving birth to the wench. When her abilities had not manifested the way the high witch had hoped, she was traded off and raised by a guild of assassins. She was part of the group that had helped Waeldeshore 25 years ago, and from then, the rest is history." She paused a moment in thought. "For years, she has ... eluded me, but I managed to track her here. My sources say that she is working with the Maji. Of course it would be best if the guild was taken out, but my sources also tell me that there is so much corruption within their ranks, they're doing very well with thinning out their own numbers without anyone else's help. Once I'm able to acquire the keys, they will be no threat." "I do not know much about them, however, I can tell you this. The order is well known in the western world for being one of the single most reliable and powerful institutions of magic. The fortress itself is thousands of years old, said to have been made by an archmage of the ancient days. The structure itself is made from a combination of pure runes and hardened obsidian, and is the approximate size of a small city.” “The order was originally created 800 years ago by the archmage Sevria Tarvanox, considered to be one of the greatest human users of magic in history, if not the greatest. Her success came from a discipline, she said, taught to her by an old mage in her early childhood. She dismantled the old line of Runic Magi. Runic mages had long been considered the world's most powerful mages; but Sevria proved that the "Weave", a more pure form of magic, was not only more powerful than runes, it was easier to use and safer. Naturally, the Runic mages didn't like their works being taken apart; but every time they attempted to take her out she became stronger and undermined Runic authority. Eventually, she lead an army of "free" mages to destroy the Vlantian Estate, which was the headquarters of the mages. The defeat caused the Runic magi to scatter and lose all unity; few were ever seen again. Those who were ended up dead after evidence arose that Runic magic had demonic roots.” “She assumed control of the castle the magi are based in today and steadily recruited followers, over the years laying roots. Someone else holds the mantle, but for over a century now, the Magi have developed a reputation of having professional mages, being completely neutral, and having little inclination to interfere in world affairs. Over the past 20 years, the magi have become much more secretive and have begun to withdraw followers from various parts of the world to vanish into the castle they are based in.” “During my search for my missing artifact, I was able to track it to their hold, however, upon doing my own search I wasn't able to find it. I believe they are either hiding it under a cloaking spell or …” She taps her chin gently in thought, “Isabeau can cloak herself in shadows, if she was able to tap into her ability, she could have accessed the shadow realm. Which is essentially a mirror of this realm. They could be hiding it there. I have maps that will direct you to where the artifact should be. I will give you all the information that I have to further aid you in this quest; details of their stronghold, demons that infest the area in question …” A cough or two slipped out. Her voice started getting hoarse at this point. She cleared her throat and continued. “All that I am asking for is for you to return what is rightfully mine, how you go about it is your choice. I believe the magi will try their luck at acquiring the second and third key. If they manage to get all three, well, you can count yourself among the dead if that happens. What Isabeau’s plans are, I'm not quite sure how far she is in with the magi or what her plans are other than keeping that key from me. For your efforts and time, I will compensate you with coin. Fifty thousand each. I hope that will suffice. If you do choose, or if you're able to slay any of the magi, I will pay you an extra twenty five thousand for each head you bring me. Does that sound fair? Are there any other questions?”	Name: Isabeau Falkenrath Species: Human/Witchling Age: 52 Description: Having let her hair grow out, her dark auburn locks are typically tied up in a braided bun, several pieces, refusing to be bound, frame her face, complementing an olive skin tone. A grey strand here and there, depicting age. Her eyes are something to behold; light green surrounded by a thin ring of gold. Freckles sprinkle lightly over a smooth face, nearly void of any wrinkles representative of a woman coming into her fifties. She stands at about 5’7” tall, a petite upper body sitting upon wider hips and thick thighs. Not overly muscular though her body is tone. When exposed, displayed on her back are a number of scars, some seeming a bit more prominent. A rather fresh one sits just above her right brow. She may have aged some from the last time any had seen her, but she certainly doesn't look as old as she is. Personality: She is typically cold and brash, on the outside anyway. Her overconfident ways have often gotten her in a pinch, but not one that she couldn't ever find her way out of. She never takes the easy way out and has a soft spot for those who have been bullied. Having grown used to the luxuries coin can buy, she would prefer a more lavish lifestyle. Shiny things may distract her from time to time, but it is never to say she had an easy life. Clothing: She typically wears light fabrics, leathers and cloths of darker shades. A large cowl normally covers most of her features. Dark brown leather boots extend up just past her knees, straps and buckles secure padding where would be needed. Plain cloth pants are held up by a thick black belt, lined with a few pouches and oddities. Weapons: Through her training, she has become a jack of all trades. Though her favorite weapon is the battle axe strapped to her back. She has a dagger hidden within her boots and one saddled to her belt at her right hip. The dagger hanging from her belt is a curved blade, with a ruby embedded within the hilt. Skills and Abilities: Part of the reason why the witches wanted to do away with her because she did not have the affinity for magic as they did. However her time in the Assassin’s Keep allowed her to develop other skills and techniques: Shadow Prison: Isabeau is able to shadow step to her foe for an attack. During this attack, her foe’s movement speed is drastically reduced temporarily Wild Blow: Isabeau is able to manipulate the shadows around her weapons, increasing the damage done by her attacks. The attack is usually used when attempting to sunder a shield. Wildfire: Despite not having the understanding of the weave, as the witches did, Isabeau was bestowed with a gift from her mother. The gift of Wildfire. This gift takes an enormous amount of energy to control and wield. When called upon, the shadows immediately surrounding her will ignite and deadly flames will coat her axe, adding fire damage to her attacks. This generally leaves Isabeau quite drained afterwards In her time away from civilization, she has learned to tap into the shadow realm. The more time she spent in the dark reflection of home, the less stable her footing became in each world. She would shift back and forth, sometimes without even meaning to. Magic:N/A -see skills above Backstory: Rumors of long ago, tell a tale of a witch who fell in love with a prince from a far away land. The prince had journeyed far in search of a magical herb that was said to cure a sickness plaguing his kingdom. He came upon a young woman living deep within the woods. Beautiful in every way imaginable, the Prince became enthralled with the young woman and insisted that she leave the woods and return with him to his castle. As tempting as the offer was, she could not leave her home. For she was a witch, just as her mother before her, and so on down the line. Their family and gifts had been banished from the kingdom long ago, and since, they had taken refuge in the forest, tending to the wilds and those who dwell within its sanctuary. Disturbed by the story, the prince vowed that he would speak with his father to lift their exile if she would return with him as his bride. Gleefully, the young woman accepted. And with the prince as her guest, she spent her last few days in the woods saying her goodbyes and making arrangements for after she left. Those last few nights blanketed by the stars, we're magical for her and the prince. Though as the story goes, it was the last shred of happiness for the young couple. Grandmother Amari, the high witch of their clan, had high expectations for the young witch. Plans, that did not include the Prince, that would've been especially ruined if the prince took her away to become a princess in the castle. Though a silver lining appeared that would help Amari's plans along. And so the high witch gathered her kin, and her plot for war went into action. On the eve before the two lovers were to leave for the castle, Amari had one of the youngest within their clan travel to the cottage where the two were staying. She silently crept in, cloaked within the shadows and darkness of the night. With one clean swipe of her blade, she sliced his throat open, and without anyone noticing, made her way back out. He bled out onto the bed next to his beloved, who never stirred, and never realized his death until the next morning. It wasn’t until many months later did they all realize the young witch was with child and when the news had traveled to the High Witch, it was ordered to discard the baby once it was born. The young witch with fire red hair and green eyes encircled with a gold ring would never know her daughter. Isabeau continued to meet only betrayal and despair as she grew older unfortunately. Bred into a world of death and darkness, she was raised within the Keep of the Assassin’s Guild and was honed into the land’s deadliest weapon. She was taught to cast all emotions aside, especially that of love. They told her that love made people weak, love would hold her back, get her killed. And just as they had warned her, love had been her undoing and led her to flee. ~~*~~ Since her departure of Waeldeshore, much has happened ((All to be revealed in rp)). Her reasons for returning are her own, but she has vowed to make things right.
55,693	1,527	29	276	729	Regina punched the wall before spinning to face the others. "Isabeau is mine." She looked at Genevieve and Ionathan, lifting off the floor again. The look in her eyes was pure, unadulterated anger, all of it aimed at Isabeau. "She will not live." She took a deep breath and sighed before shaking her head roughly. "Where do we go first?" she asked, looking at Genevieve. "If she's not there, I will hunt her down."	Name: Regina Hills Species: Halfling Age: 57 Description: Regina is a bit tall for a halfling, a whole six inches taller than the average of 3 feet, with long, reddish brown hair and chocolatey brown eyes. She has a pale complexion and a few small wrinkles, preferring to stay in the shade, and a thin but curvy figure that is slowly catching up with her age. Regina wears a thin layer of leather armor over her clothes with multiple daggers hidden on her and a pair of longtooth daggers on her hips. Regina carries no less than 20 throwing daggers, 10 normal daggers and a pair of longtooth daggers on her at any time. Personality: Regina is the type of woman to flirt with some of the younger women though nothing too far as she doesn't want to be left again. She's easy to anger if you say the wrong thing. However, she does keep her anger under control while at work. She's no longer the happy-go-lucky woman she once was, instead taking everything carefully and not letting anyone close again. Skills/Abilities: Regina has great aim with her throwing daggers and is proficient with her normal daggers to block and redirect, allowing her to use her longtooth daggers, with their little extra length, to attack. She can also pick locks, pick pockets, find and remove traps, track people, most any skill a thief would find very helpful. Other than that, she is an excellent with her psionic powers, allowing her to do many things most people cannot. -Combat Mind: Using this, she has a clear understanding of where her allies and enemies are. -Telekinesis: She can levitate most objects though nothing bigger than a small human male for more than a couple minutes. -Levitation: She can lift herself up to 12 feet from whatever she's standing on. -Complete Healing: With a 12-hour meditation process, she can heal herself of all injuries, illnesses, poisons and the like. -Quick Healing: With a matter of a few minutes and a lot of concentration, she can heal her small injuries, though nothing bigger than a small cut. -Adrenaline Control: By controlling the production and release of adrenaline in her system, she can give herself a temporary physical boost on demand. -Body Weaponry: Using this, she can turn her hands into dagger blades or go as far as her elbow for a shortsword blade. -Displacement: She can control where people see her, whether or not she moves. -Teleport: With this, she can teleport up to 200 feet away in the blink of an eye, with loud popping sounds emitting from both the place she teleports from and to. -Telepathy: Using this, she is able to communicate wordlessly with another intelligent being without having to worry about language barriers. -Daydream: She can cause another person's mind to wander, allowing her to pick their pockets and get away safely with a lower chance of getting caught. Magic: She has no magic though some have commented her psionics are similar. Backstory: Regina was raised in a big halfling city, well as big a city as the halflings would build, with her numerous siblings. The only way she could stand out in her family enough to be remembered was the fact that, at a young age, she could make apples fly to her hand. She had practically never spent any time at home once she was old enough and had gotten caught picking locks and grabbing an apple for a snack. She had eventually decided, after nearly having her hand chopped off for the thousandth time, to leave the city and find a better life. She soon was found by a thieves' guild that took her in and began training her. She spent the next 15 years in the guild, training as hard as she could to get faster and stronger though her strength didn't improve by much. They found out about her psionic skills rather quickly and, being only the second psionic in the guild, learned from an older man who taught her how to teleport, heal small wounds, levitate items other than apples, such as herself, and so on. After her training was finished, she began traveling again, ending up in Waeldeshore. It was there she met a group that was going to be fighting a dragon. She decided to join them, supplying the team with a lot of jerky during their travel to the cave. They ended up stealing a magic artifact from a sleeping dragon, one of two in that particular cave and escaping rather quickly. Upon arriving back at the town, most of them decided to spend the night. Regina offered to share a room with one of the more beautiful, yet still a bit scary, women on the team. When she awoke, however, she saw her ally was gone. She had searched for days but the trail was cold and she couldn't follow what she couldn't find. Instead, she decided to go east. She went far east, ending up in a land much different than what she was used to a year later. It was there she met another halfling woman, a bard who instantly captured her heart. She traveled with the bard, acting as her bodyguard for a decade and a half until she was injured badly. She was unconscious for days as she slowly healed herself from nearly dying but, when she awoke, the bard was gone. She asked around but nobody had seen the halfling bard around in days. She had been abandoned again. With nothing else to do, she returned to the west. It took 4 years to travel back, as she had done other jobs along the way to distract her, but she eventually returned to Wealdeshore. With not much else to do, she became a guard for one of the local pubs. It's been 5 years since her return and, in that time, she's proven to be a great asset as well as a new resident for the foreseeable future.
55,694	1,527	30	2,782	1,198	Ajax, truth be told, did not care for specific amounts, and yet he cocked an eyebrow at the mention of the pay. He would have accepted a pittance, a symbolic reward of any sort, but decent coin meant a better living while it lasted, and so he was pleased. And sometimes, not always but sometimes, bringing the matter of recompense up was a good way to further gauge a situation. For instance, he figured fifty thousand per head was an impressive amount of coin to be throwing around, not to mention the extras for killing magi. And speaking of, no decent person he knew, granted he didn't really know many, ever offered incentives for the heads of enemies. He just couldn't pass this up. It was by far the shadiest deal he'd been involved with, because he'd been asked to do some questionable things, but at least those times it was all rather up-front. He was a fighter for hire, he didn't quite care and most of the people who hired people like him didn't either. He just had to see where this would go from here. Nevermind the history lesson about magic, all that was lost on him, and not having known this assassin witch girl person he didn't really care much about that either. It might just all end in nothing, but he just couldn't wait for the seemingly inevitable turn this adventure would take. He shrugged his shoulders, turning his head slightly to give a Skaala a slight, knowing nod before turning his eyes to the halfling and rolling them around in obvious mockery as she tried to invade the hostess' mind then threw a tantrum. He was no psychic himself, but given his attitude thus far the message was sort of clear. Would the beastess rather let this go and take the risk of leaving something potentially important in the hands of someone like that? And the rest weren't necessarily much better, also having obvious prior ties to the woman or being so obviously taken in by the group's previous adventures. That just wouldn't do. He turned to Genevieve and smiled a confident, knowing grin. It was the face of someone who knew what was up and was, beyond a shadow of a doubt, certain that he would could take whatever was thrown at him and come out on top. And the face of someone who it would be best not to mess with. "So, go to the fortress, kill the mages, fight an assassin you used to know and get the artifact back. Sounds simple enough".	Name: Ajax Diagorides Species: Human Age: 40 Description: Ajax is an olive skinned and tanned man who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs around 300 pounds. A thick, muscle bound figure with powerful, sinewy arms and robust legs which end in burly hands and feet and a log-like neck that holds up a head as large as the rest of his body, with a prominent jaw and chin as well as dark brown eyes, short, curly black hair and a thick but not overly long beard, he bears a more than passing resemblance to the real-life Boxer of Quirinal, except far more muscular, with a build closely resembling that of a powerlifter or strongman competitor. Thanks to his less than healthy lifestyle, Ajax is a mess to look at. He is scarred from head to toe, his eyes are sunken, his nose squashed and slightly deviated, he has cauliflower ears and his hands, forearms, elbows, knees, shins and feet are covered in extremely thick and rough calluses, giving them a leathery, bumpy look. Ajax's clothing is a loose white robe called a doric chiton, that he keeps strapped to his left shoulder with a pin and extends past his waist, ending just above the knees. Ajax also wears brown leather, hobnailed, sandal-like boots called caligae. Personality: Ajax is a fairly merry man, fond of living a life full of excitement and action and can be fairly easy to get along with as he is giving, loyal, honest and straightforward, seeing greed, deceit and treachery as marks of weakness. Conversely, he's also kind of nuts. He says what's on his mind no matter the situation, is knowingly offensive to others and enjoys fighting to a mind-boggling degree. Smashing things to bits seems to be his main solution to any problem, too, and he has no qualms in instigating fights or escalating them when a couple words would be enough to defuse a potentially dangerous situation. Ajax has a great distaste for magic and religion and will act rather condescending to anyone who relies overmuch on these, even worse if they try to lord these things over him or otherwise try to make him see their way. It’s not enough to bring him to violence but he sees over-reliance on magic or the intervention of higher forces as a queer path in life. Why credit the gods with your achievements, why rely on some mystic force you can barely comprehend when you could achieve this on the strength of your back? He feels much the same towards those who take their status as nobles as somehow making them intrinsically superior to others. Ajax has a fairly complex world view based on strength, self-reliance and personal growth. He feels the strong come to rule the weak, but that strength isn't limited to physical strength or martial power and that the weak should, in turn, grow strong and strive for greater things in life, never letting themselves be crushed underfoot. He relishes the freedom necessary for such a growth and will readily help others to attain it, just as long as they actually put the effort to grow themselves, though his efforts can come across as him just being rather mean. He is especially harsh towards those who could stand for themselves but don't and expect others to do it for them, believing that over-reliance on others is another path to subjugation. Skills/Abilities: -Herculean: Ajax seems to have been gifted with superhuman physicality. Though his agility and manual dexterity aren’t much to speak of, he is freakishly strong and damn near tireless. His entire body is tremendously difficult to damage and eradicates poisons, toxins and disease with absurd ease. What makes this unique is that Ajax wasn't simply born powerful, but rather that his body adapted to extremely harsh circumstances much faster and better than anyone else. It's something everyone can do. Both muscle and bone adapt to the stresses they're placed under with time, you can exercise specifically to increase your lung capacity, you can get used to extremes of temperature if you live with them long enough, but the thing about Ajax is that his gift allows him to defy normal human limits. Of course, this gift requires a high degree of dedication to constantly test and push his own limits. If he had lived a quiet life, his gift would've gone by unnoticed. His gift also allows him to pit his body against things that should be unaffected by mere brute force, since his body has been cultivated in such an unnatural way. He can pit his might directly against magic such as hold spells and the like, though this doesn't make him immune to magic as a whole, and is resilient towards mind-altering effects from a mixture of sheer willpower and having experienced them previously in his travels. This also extends to attempts to invade his psyche, which meet with as heavy a resistance as if Ajax was fighting the person directly. -Pankration: Ajax is a skilled unarmed fighter, having trained to fight most of his life and having survived a number of ordeals through fighting skill alone. His fighting style is known in his homeland as Pankration, loosely translated as "all of might", and was originally a blend of boxing and wrestling with no rules beyond no biting or eye-gouging before more and more skills were added to its repertoire. Ajax is a particularly skilled grappler, adept at using his strength and size to his advantage, but knows how to supplement it with effective striking and has a proper grasp of the fundamentals of fighting beyond sheer strength. Backstory: Ajax descends from a long line of athletes, from the faraway land of Erimai. His father, Diagoras, was an accomplished wrestler trained by his father as was tradition within the family and celebrated in his homeland for his many victories in legitimate sporting events. Diagoras, in turn, upheld the custom and trained Ajax from an early age, and the young man soon grew into a grappler of considerable skill himself. However before Ajax could make his debut in an official event, Diagoras was murdered, the killer managing to evade the law. With the aid of family friends, many of which held connections with the fighting underworld, Ajax eventually discovered that his father's death was orchestrated by Diagoras' supposed benefactor, Magistrate Cleon, because Diagoras had won a fight he was asked to throw. Enraged, Ajax sought Cleon out to murder him with his own two hands but was subsequently defeated, bested by foul sorceries and the attack of a demonically powerful fighter in Cleon's employ, known only as Hyperanthes. He was captured and his family subjected to great shame. Publicly tried for attempting to murder a magistrate, Ajax was to be sentenced to death by poisoning before Cleon intervened, demanding Ajax be sold to him as a slave as reparation, a demand that was granted. It was then that Ajax's fighting career truly began, as the magistrate entered him in brutal underground contests, rule-less deathmatches for the enjoyment of select crowds. Fighting for survival with neither weapons nor armor, Ajax overcame all odds with his continued survival and spectacular progress, eventually becoming the circuit's most celebrated champion. Only one thought kept him from despair: revenge. As time passed Ajax befriended a few of the other fighters and together they planned an escape. A hole in security, an opportune bribe carried out by acquaintances on the outside and superior combat skills were all that was needed, and soon the fighters were free. Knowing he'd be hunted down, Ajax decided to flee the country without involving anyone else, sneaking into a random merchant ship leaving the island which was first dragged around, then smashed to bits by a typhoon. The lone survivor, Ajax drifted aimlessly in a damaged raft until he arrived to a strange foreign land. So began his career as a travelling adventurer. Never settling in a single place for long, always moving, always fighting to become ever stronger, looking to return to his homeland. The only problem is, no ship seems to know how to get there and by this point he has boarded about a dozen random ships with no clue where exactly they were going, so he is well and truly lost in this regard. His homeland could be on the exact opposite of creation for all he knows. He has, however, come to find great enjoyment in his life and while he still seeks his home, he is content with facing life on a day to day basis, taking on new adventures as they come. It is not uncommon to find him as a strongman for hire, and tales are sometimes told of the strange, massive foreigner carrying neither weapons nor armor who clears out monster dens or bandit camps seemingly for the challenge of it. Enticing him to take part of a new adventure should be a simple matter. Other: I always though it was pretty boring how the badass fisticuffs class is always some type of asian stereotype built to be dodgy rather than a frontline manly man so think of Ajax as a Fighter rather than a Monk, speaking in class terms, except with less reliance on being given decent gear and magical buffs. He's the guy that stands at the front of the line, gets the crap kicked out of him and keeps going, and can deal some good damage especially in one on one fights. He's actually a prior character of mine, a Fighter in Dungeon World which lets you use gauntlets as your weapon type thanks to its narrative focus.
55,695	1,527	31	2,426	2,292	The subtle smile that played across the old warrior's scarred face curved her jowls; it was a knowing, thinking expression, the sort that well accompanied the information Lady Genevieve seemed to provide at last. She did not tense throughout the conversation, but quickly set her mind to work on comprehending what all was said, and more so, what it all meant. Many of the terms, the history more than anything, were vaguely familiar - something the massive lioness woman would need reflect upon in meditation and time - but this was progress all the same. It helped some, nonetheless, that the half blooded knight could at least seem to confirm that the two women were former allies turned enemies which bolstered some confidence, however small. Crossing her thick arms before her mithral breastplate, the right visibly moving with more difficulty, the mercenary found the offer far more than she expected, but it was not far fetched. Someone with such affluence and apparent wealth certainly had those sort of funds available, not lacking the capacity in the slightest, but the entire offer seemed to be a desperate effort of incentive. Fortunately, the man across the table provided the slight, knowing nod the Huntress so desired; at least some of this odd collective understood what her intentions were - not to sign their lives away so quickly. However, as the savageness of her eyes seemed to wash over Diagorides in acknowledgement, it then quickly shift away to the halfling, distracted only for a moment. The small woman struck a wall, a dull thud resulting as she then spun about, speaking with vivid frustration, "Isabeau is mine." "She will not live." Regina Hills continued, quivering with anger while the man soon returned to his business and so did Sakaala's attention to the conversation itself. There would be time coming to contend with that. Taking a deep breath and her keen ears following the words while she moved, she allowed the discussion to carry on without her direct influence; each large pawed foot spreading silently across the floor. Walking about the edge of the fine wood table, arms relaxing from their place across her broad chest, she proved to guide herself near the young knight that was Emil Erran. Her presence was intentional, as though to spur the young man to words one could reason, but certainly not so close as to be a menace. She genuinely wondered if he would so much as react or simply be uncomfortable by the sheer scale and danger posed by a monstrous being so close. Coming to a quiet halt, her thick neck proved to cock her head slightly at an angle, still in thought to none but herself.	Name: "Sakaala" Referring to herself as "Sakaala", it is unknown what her name truly is, but there exists reason enough to believe that her assumed name has apparent symbolism, most likely amongst those familiar to her fallen people who placed great value in the meaning of all things, most importantly those belonging to themselves. For those in the know of obscure and arcane cultural history, she is "the finality" or more simply "the last (whole) one", a sobering title that is not only accurate but most disheartening. Species: Monstrous Humanoid The origin and types of monstrous humanoids vary greatly, with some being the product of twisted arcane magic unchecked to others being the work of some divine force. They range from the more "common", as with the minotaur, centaur or harpy, to the more exotic and rare. Sakaala, as well as those who once made up her people, bordered the spectrum of the latter more than the former, being mostly obscure but recorded comparatively well. However, the question of what created a small number of lionmen abroad the realm is unknown, but their kind existed like many monsters before the Age of Mortals, near certainly having an origin many ancient eras past. Only in recent times has this rare bloodline, as with many other unusual beings of similar sorts, all but disappeared after prolonged hunting of "aberrants" by paranoid mortals in the wake of the near successful invasion of the plane. Age: 47 Although longer lived than most mortal men by virtue of unnatural blood, Sakaala is no youth and certainly no longer in her prime. In spite of these things, as with her natural relatives, she is a remarkable example of longevity which has been extended yet by dabbling in arcane arts and an incredible will to survive. Description: Sakaala is distinct in just race alone; owing both to her incredible scale among mortal men, at the height of horse of twenty-two hands, and her overtly leonine features of which are only vaguely humanoid in nature and otherwise quite savage. Her dense sand tone hide is badly scarred about the right of her body, bearing some wounds of which were so visibly savage that even magical aid has not wholly righted them, but the most notable being the blindness of her right eye. While no less lame in the right arm than blind in the right eye, almost entirely numb, she retains its use by sense of self alone. Ambidextrous in response because of this weakness, her tendency to shore up vulnerabilities is remarkable. She distinctly conceals the worst of her injuries beneath her partial robe, and outside of the obvious blindness of an eye, her body is in remarkable condition for a female of her growing age, violent history and having bore offspring in previous. While not overtly robust, her musculature is still visible and her strength measurably stronger than many men. Instead of these qualities, she is more remembered for the gold that is the color of her eyes, barring the blindness; they are akin to portals of lingering sadness and fierce resolve - the same lament of failure and animal cry of defiance entwined. Minimalist in her armoring, Sakaala bears a well worn mithral breastplate upon her chest and a matching pauldron and bracer to her weaker arm, ending it in a fingerless leather glove. Beneath her limited armor she dresses in the remnants of an aged arcanist's robe that ends just beneath her sizable bust, rolling it at the shoulder upon the right limb and let loose upon her strong left arm; the formerly black material having faded to a dusted grey. It, like the rest of her regalia, is undoubtedly salvaged from a fallen friend or a fallen foe, becoming both a prize and a memento. Upon her waist fits a wide tribal belt and battered sash keeping rolled, pressed leather leggings that are accompanied by a pair of slender, exotic daggers worn at the thigh about her lower half. While the belt she adorns herself was once common to her kind, they exist now only as prizes in the hands of grim collectors. Worn about her neck hangs a morbid reminder of her enemy's hatred for her people - a collection of fangs and claws - which was most certainly pried from the cold, dead grasp of one of her felled foes of which is accompanied by another, not nearly minor trinket; a decorative necklace of polished black stone upon a humble leather loop adorned with smaller decorative pieces. Not keen to speak of the second of the two pieces of finery, she often counts the poached points of her other necklace. Bearing a true hand-and-a-half elven blade of indeterminate age as her favored weapon, it is uncertain if it were a tool of conflict initially her own or one which she liberated from her would-be killers. Forged of the rare ore mithral, it is polished to an exquisite silvery shine instead of dulled with age about the fine of the blade. Despite its characteristic remarkable lightness and finesse, the weapon is truly designed to be wielded with both hands by its bearer, yet Sakaala's great scale and greater strength allows her to wield it with deadly ease in a single pawed hand. Unnervingly, so much as drawing the blade - let alone swinging it - sets it to ring faintly in a short lived but soft harmonic hum, but more than anything the bite of the sword itself leaves such keen blows that they are almost unsettling to look upon. Personality and Alignment: Neutral Good The benevolent matriarch, her inherently motherly animal nature follows her strongly with the incredible violence, that both magical and mundane, which she is capable of should she or those she considers her own be threatened. Kindly even toward those wary of her, her wrath is not easily provoked, but no threats made against her or those she views as companions are considered just idle. Perhaps unconsciously she tends to the wounded, acquires fresh provisions, and stays awake during watches all to ensure the continued survival of her adoptive company. Aging as she is, she has embraced the role of a vizier and sage, providing great insight and wisdom to those who inquire upon her. No friend of evil and abiding by her own sense of morality, she is best described as an intellectual and spiritual benefactor. Skills/Abilities: Lore Expertise Having lived such a varied and long life has graced Sakaala with many skills, the most notable is her vast knowledge upon matters ranging from historical events to distant locales, from to forces of nature to arcane mysteries. Self taught, her incredible recollection is imperfect and incomplete, but more often than not her acquired lore is relevant. She specializes in the intellectual categories of arcana, history, nature and locales with little greater knowledge on other matters. Martial Adept There are those who achieve martial proficiency through strength of arms alone and then there are those who acquire combat superiority by raw skill. Sakaala's inhuman strength and agility lend well to life lived by the sword, but it is her intuition, intelligence and force of personality that truly make her a deadly foe as she not only understands the principals of conflict, but actively anticipates them with preternatural skill. This so called "blade-magic" is a blend of martial arts, mysticism, and swordplay - at times engaging in impossible feats martial through magic and at others achieved by intense discipline and practice alone. Sakaala makes up for her disabilities by simply being more skillful and magically inclined than most her foes. Bolstering Presence While Sakaala is present, her mere warrior nature supernaturally inspires mental resolve and great courage in the face of fear among herself and allies. Effects that attack the mind are weakened, and attempts to intimidate or cause fear are dampened heavily as the body, emotion, mind, and spirit are made hardened against such effects. Perfect Mind Honed by intense exposure to offensive magic, Sakaala's force of personality provides her immense leverage against mind-affecting effects. The bane of charms, enchantments and illusions, she often rapidly comes to her senses, especially in the heat of battle or when her companions are threatened. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Steel Wind This maneuver involves a sudden turn of the blade that lands an otherwise singular blow against one target to also connect with another. A difficult attack to employ in the hands of the untrained, its uncanny speed and incredible finesse work are further augmented by Sakaala's ambidexterity, making her a deadly foe against numbers of enemies, especially the lightly armored. This attack is effectively a single attack against multiple targets. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Wall of Blades The agility Sakaala can display for brief periods of time even without her magic is unsettling. With lightning speed, Sakaala can counter a single melee or ranged attack, blocking or deflecting the worst of the blow with her own weapon, even in the worst of scenarios with precognition-like intuition. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Seasoned Ranger A born predator, Sakaala was one of many huntresses of her people, no less acting as a wildlands warrior in times of danger when threatened. Having survived alone from these skills for years, she is an able huntress and would be considered expert in the wilderness, capable of even eluding enemies and striking unexpectedly in natural environments. Of her practical skills, she is a trained gatherer of flora and fauna thus able to provide for herself and others in the ways of naturally provided rations, traditional medicine, pure water and various feats of outdoorsmanship. She is difficult to track when being followed and hardly inhibited by natural terrain. Magic: Channel Spell The ability to cast magical spells and effects is no small wonder even in a world where magic is possibility, but the power to do so while accompanying martial maneuvers is another great feat altogether. Able to channel some of her spells through her natural and weapon attacks, she unleashes devastating blows that inflict a variety of other effects on the victims of the attack. Working in conjunction with her supernatural martial arts, she can perform these abilities often in unexpected ways such as casting a single spell and striking multiple foes with its effects at once. She is not only limited to a small selection of spells to channel a day, but cannot do so extensively without becoming exhausted mentally. Bladeweave A swing of the sword moves with awesome magical grace and almost rhythmic perfection while giving off glints of faint light. Any creature unfortunate enough to be struck might find itself briefly dazed for a moment of hesitation by the fascinating magical swordsmanship exhibited. Creatures that have already been dazed are just as likely to be dazed again, but those resistant to illusions are not likely to be so awed. Combustion A corona of roiling heated air sheathes the blade, leaving waves of intense heat in the wake. A creature or object struck by the weapon discharges the spell, causing the target to instantly ignite in a personal inferno and setting them intensely ablaze for a moment before the magical flames vanish. If hasty or fortunate, a creature can extinguish the lingering non-magical flames left behind - if not careful, they continue to burn with mundane fire until its fuel is exhausted or its air is cut off. Enfeeblement An ominous dark green glimmer envelops the weapon's blade and is discharged upon successful strike, magically debilitating the muscular strength of the victim. Each instance of crippled physical might is additive, and creatures depleted of their strength are temporarily paralyzed and rendered helpless. Their lost strength returns minutes later after the last blow endured. Fatiguing A faint dullness and aura of immaterial grey shrouds the weapon's blade and is discharged upon a successful blow. The so affected creature is overcome by fatigue, slowing its physical strength and reflexes greatly, but most notably leaving it tired and unable to run. The weight of their debilitation is brief, lasting only a few prolonged moments and once the effects wear off, they are no worse for wear because of it. Shocking A scatter of sparks and silent cyan-white lightning shudder about the sword's length, pulling it more accurately toward metal targets. Upon striking, the magical effect discharges with a dull localized clap of thunder and the target is struck by a mighty burst of lightning from the weapon, jarring them. This channeled effect is much more likely to land upon metal targets than those not bearing much metal. True Strike A bearer of a weapon to be imbued takes a brief moment to gain precognative insight into their next attack, greatly increasing its likelihood to land, yet this strength comes at the cost of denying the caster action for a moment. Now enchanted for its next blow, it ignores both magical and practical forms of concealment and seems to find the weakest point in the target's defenses. Once it strikes, the benefit ends and the aura of perfect clarity is gone. Wraithstrike A phantasmal air surrounds the now shimmering blade which is sheathed in ghostly wisps. For a brief moment, it strikes with deathly accuracy, penetrating conventional defenses such as armor or even benefits such as magical deflectiveness, needing only to merely touch the victim to deal its damage in full as though it were a spirit. Upon striking, the effect ends and the weapon returns to its normal qualities. Natural Sorceress As a creature born of magic, the very essence of latent power lies within Sakaala and those that were like her, infused with every ounce of their person. It is from this obscure pool that she draws upon, evoking sorcerous power on whim, but having deeply specialized in doing so; her repertoire of magical spells not vast or complex, but instead practical and martial. She blends the martial arts and swordplay with her magic instead of casting traditional spells by and far, although she can indeed manifest some purely magic effects. Traditionally, few monstrous humanoids are able mages - instead relying upon their natural superiority to combat magical and mundane threats through sheer force and intuition. Sakaala, in spite of these things and the taboos of her now lost society, has taken up arcane power to compensate for her debilitation and growing age. It is known that many mortals are driven mad by arcane power with time, but many monsters seem no worse for wear. As with all sorcerers, Sakaala's magic depletes throughout the day when she expends it. Recovering her inherent energy when she rests for a prolonged time, she relies upon measured application of mystic force so not to expend all of her magic in a short time although she is capable of doing so. Least (0th) Arcane Mark, Amanuensis, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Read Magic, Touch of Fatigue Lesser (1st) Nerveskitter, Shocking Grasp, Truestrike, Ray of Enfeeblement Common (2nd) Combust, Bladeweave, Wraithstrike Great (3rd) Haste, Dispel Magic Arcane Mark A visible or invisible permanent mark of magical enchantment is placed upon the target without causing harm. If placed upon a creature, it fades with time over a month. When invisible, it requires a creature that can see invisibility to notice the mark. Otherwise only an effect that detects magic renders the mark visible, but one must be able to read magic as well to understand its meaning, if it even has one. Amanuensis An invisible force, when provided with text to read and parchment, begins transcribing the mundane words of another work. The force continues to generate the copied text word for word on to the initially blank parchment, skipping any illustrations and magical enchantments it encounters in its work, leaving their locations empty. While it does not translate the writings, should they be in a language not understood, it does continue to copy them until its duration ends or it pauses, awaiting more parchment. Detect Magic The viewer can visually detect magical effects within their line of sight, out to a short distance as glowing radiation. If they wish to concentrate they may separate different auras and determine their strength, and with further concentration attempt to determine the specific spell effect that is active. Powerful magical effects and creatures leave lingering auras, and appear more distinctly upon focus. Dispel Magic A powerful, brief burst of nullifying magic affects a creature or object, or dispels an area instantly of any temporary magical effects and interrupts ongoing ones or those being cast. The dispelling affect always targets the most powerful spells first, then attempts to remove the progressively weaker ones of its target. Against a creature casting a spell, this effect causes the spell to immediately fail to cast. Haste The caster and nearby allies blur with sudden, lightning fast alacrity, moving with intense speed and reflexes. Their attacks become so rapid they are a near blur of motion, and their movement causes them to shimmer with enchanted speed. Striking more accurately and evading more rapidly, this effect lasts only a few intense prolonged moments. Mage Hand An invisible force may manipulate objects through concentration as though it were an extension of its master. Although capable of only lifting light objects, it has the full functionality of a phantasmal hand free of a body, giving it great range of motion. A form of very limited magical psychokinesis, its range is short and it disperses to nothing if it travels far. Message A distant conversation may be held at a whispered tone, sent to a small number of selected creatures. Although each may reply individually, the visibly spoken words are sent to all affected individuals. It bypasses line of sight, limited out to several hundred feet, but is stopped by magical silence, dense metal or stone, or several feet of earth or wood. The words spoken are identical to what is being said and do not transcend language barriers. Nerveskitter An icy rush races through the blood of the affected individual, spurring them to act or react to danger well before they regularly would be capable. Immediate in effect and its casting, it gives the the creature great precognition for but a moment, allowing them to act with greater initiative. Although limited in range out to a short distance, it heightens the senses and reactions greatly for a crucial few seconds. Prestidigitation This effect can generate a wide array of more minor effects, of which are humble yet practical uses of magic. They range from cleaning to dirtying an object, creating minor levitation in small objects, chill or warm slightly, ignite or extinguish mundane flames, create small fragile objects or play ethereal musical notes, and so forth. While it cannot duplicate stronger spells, it perhaps can evoke the illusion of greater magic at play. Read Magic Enabling a reader to explicitly read magically concealed text, it can be used to translate runes, scrolls, symbols and other forms of enchanted text. It does not invoke any latent magical effect of the writing, but it allows the reader to no longer require the ability to read that enchanted text through magic, giving them inherent understanding of it. Backstory: Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary By "The Mage", quoted from "Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary", Chapter VI "On the Subject of Sakaala" "Hunter, warrior, arcanist - over the span of a lifetime one has many varied roles that they might confront, but few ever live them so fully as to explore them in their entirety. She however, has. Undeniably left with the signs of terrible wounds past, most notably the blindness of her right eye and blatant lameness of the right arm, she has endured trials no one, be them man or beast, should be forced to confront alone. Born an exceptional huntress but appointed a warrior, she served loyally on behalf of her scarce peoples, keeping grim threats beyond, those we do not suffer, at bay. Although she, as with select others among her lot, served admirably on behalf man, not all men were so approving. It was in this she was forced to fight to the last beside those who had become her sisters on an ever losing front, but for all of her skill even she too was felled. She too has felt the bite of defeat... all the more memorable than that of victory. She does not speak to us about what became of her children, but when you look upon her eyes you see that same hurt of someone with nothing left to her in this world. It is for these reasons she turned to things most men believe left better unknown - the arcane. For one reason or another, perhaps because she is not of mortal stock, she has acquired the capacity to wield this mystic thing as any other weapon. She has made her body, and even her blade, its conduit. It is all almost a direct extension of herself, the way in which she flows like graceful death both natural and magical; the manner in which she ably adapts her styles, be them as subtle as her favored hand to the placement of her feet, even in her age. I wonder if she is truly satisfied now, watching over us like our matriarch - some relic of a dead people - blessing us with kindness we cannot possibly repay. After all, what could we offer her? We are but mere men; arrogant, brash, foolish and young. What really drives her to aid us in the heat of conflict or tend to our wounds thereafter? A motherhood she still lives vicariously? Whatever the reason, she has more than earned my faith in her; my admiration for her."
55,696	1,527	32	1,153	95	So the traitor was Isabeau, it was as he thought, his reaction was one of acceptance of a fact rather than any stage of grief. He had his suspicions it was her but he was in denial. But now that he had been told from a reliable source his only reaction has a long sigh which he kept quiet. Regina reaction was not so controlled for which Ionathan could not blame her for, he remembered the way Regina had acted around Isabeau. Regina's rage reminded Ionathan how much he feared mages and the like, sure he had fought magic users in the war and had the scares to prove it but the fear had never gone away. Regina's punch made Ionathan's sallet to fall from the table which Ionathan managed to catch with a burst of speed that he surprised himself with. But when Regina turned to him he froze, bent over with his helmet in his hands. "She will not live." Ionathan nodded slowly in recognition of her rage and slowly put his sallet back on the table, trying not to make any noise. He noticed that Skaala was slowly creeping on Erran for which Ionathan felt a need to look out for and he did not want Skaala to interrogate the poor guy. He wanted to intercept but first he needed to respond to the offer. “I will be the first to accept the offer my lady, except for the bounty, I’m not into blood money” Walking to Erran he knelt down next to his chair and courteously bowed his head. “Sir Erran is it? It’s an honour to meet you” Extending a hand to shake he gave a smile “What do you think about the offer?”	Name: Ionathan Hepburnberg Race: Half-Elf Description: Tall, Honourable,kind-hearted, mid 30s human age appearance. Age: 53 Gender: Male Appearance: Dark Green eyes under black eyebrows and short, black hair. At 6 foot 1 Ionathan is above average height for humans and easily stands out with his sharp, elven like features including elf like ears but more rounded and less pronounced, he has a Light skin colour with a small scar on his right cheekbone Clothing/Armor: A Tabard with the Hepburnberg Coat of arms over a mail shirt with padding underneath. He has a few satchels upon his belt consisting of first aid supplies. Atop his head is a sallet with a padded lether cap underneath. On casual days, Ionathan wears a plain brown tunic. Weapons: Ionathan wields a bastard sword that is usually equiped with his shield that he carries on his back with a Guige when it's not equiped. The shield is a standard heater shield with the Hepburnberg heraldry for a coat of arms. Skills/Abilities: An experience fighter-Ionathan's experience in the army has not left him as he remembers the battles he was in and how to take on opponents of different measure. Discipline and Obedience- As part of his soldier training the iron discipline is still embedded in Ionathan's mind. Ionathan knows basic first aid with some advance understanding of the significance of wounds. Backstory: With a human father and a elven mother Ionathan got to learn about both human and elven cultures from an early age. However, His father was a wealthy landowner so his marriage to an elf was most scandalous, this left Ionathan with a resentment of the nobility and few friends. Ionathan in his childhood and adolescents spent his time reading and received a good education via private tutors. When the war broke out Ionathan had just reached Adulthood and being in a noble family he was enlisted as an officer cadet, Ionathan's training at the officers training camp was harsh but effective, at the start he was like any other who had just reached adult hood, full of energy and always cheerful, but by the end he was a disciplined and skilled officer who acted with knowledge and calculation rather than gut feeling. After The training he was assigned to be a Lieutenant of the 35th regiment of foot where he served throughout the war. The 35th served with valor and duty with their most famous action taking place when a strike force went to strike a supply town near the border and the 35th held the road despite repeated enemy assaults until reinforcements arrived, the officers were personally kissed on the cheeks by the ruling official of the town and were offered the best rooms in the taverns while the regiment was resupplied. After the war Ionathan adopted a girl made orphaned by the war and settled down and bought a cosy 2 bedroomed house in Waeldeshore were he became a guard for the town. Over the years he reflected on his life in the army while growing to like the town and became a respected by his colleagues and the town for his by the book approach to handling situations and his good relation with the Guard Captain. Throughout the years he made sure that his daughter was given the best education he could afford her with his salary, even on the weekends giving lessons himself. He remains in close contact with his parents who visit every month. Ionathan is looking forward to a life of keeping law and order while letting time heal the wounds of war. After the "happening" at Waeldeshore, Ionathan took over the family estate in the countryside and established it as a fine farming estate. The workers being retired soldiers and victims of the happenings, live in accommodation around the estate and although the pay is modest, Ionathan provides food, warmth and shelter for those who have suffered. Ionathan put aside his sword and picked up the pen becoming Commissioner of Justice, reforming the guard into a more professional law enforcement body. Being part of a noble family Ionathan was put through an arranged marriage with was easy to arrange due to the fame he gained in fighting the demons, while the couple are not a "lovey dovey" pair they both love each other dearly and have enjoyed there years of marriage which soon gave them a son. Ionathan’s Adopted daughter was accepted by Ionathan’s wife with open arms and now has become the state ambassador traveling around the world promoting friendship and trade between nations. One day Ionathan received a strange letter from Genevieve calling him to once more take up arms, Ionathan immediately informed his wife of the letter and his intent to leave. Although leaving his wife and child to themselves weighted heavy in Ionathan’s heart, he departed several days later. Alignment- Lawful good
55,697	1,527	33	2,620	2,551	Emil's jaw nearly dropped when the sage named her price. Fifty Thousand coins each? The amount of money she had just offered the group of them was... significant to say the least- more than enough to make even Edessa's king turn his head, not to mention the extra bounty she placed on each 'head' of a mage. Emil shuddered at that thought. The idea of tearing a head off of a corpse, and then carrying it around for extra money was bloody, to say the least. Despite the quietness of her walk, Emil's peripherals were very well aware of the large beastkin walking around the table and his direction. Visibly stiffening as the beast approached him, his hands twitched, clenching for a moment on the table, before relaxing. As much as the beastkin Sakaala unnerved him, if she truly wanted him dead at the moment, Emil reasoned, there was little he could do about it- she was standing behind him, just out of arms reach, but close enough, and he was sat at the table with his sword unable to be drawn fast enough to outmaneuver a swipe from the beastkin's massive paws. When Ionathan came to his rescue, to to speak, Emil relaxed, his shoulders dropping to a slight slump. "The honor is mine," Emil replied genuinely, in a quiet voice. "Truth be told, I think the offer almost too good, but perhaps I am not properly gauging the gravity of this task." He added, confiding in the older knight. After a moment of hesitation, Emil too spoke up. "As will I, Lady Genevieve." he said, adding his pledge alongside Ionathan's.	Name: Emil Erran Species: Human Age: 18 Description: Emil is a young man standing in at about 5'10" in height, with the build of an athlete- or at least one used to continuous physical exertion. While not the pinnacle of strength and endurance, Emil is in good fighting shape, and his body is sinewy and lithe. He has a few scars on his body- though none of them are from combat. His eyes are a deep green, and his blonde hair is typically short and out of the way. His typical attire is a deep blue tunic, with thick trousers, and well worn leather boots and gloves. In combat, he wears a cuirass to protect his upper chest, while still allowing him full range of motion while mounted, reinforced with tough leather, along with armor on his boots, sides, shoulders and forearms. Personality: Warm and kind-hearted, Emil is a modest young knight with a strong sense of morality and justice. This level headed knight tries his best to stay brave and rational in the face of hardship and adversity, despite his inexperience. Due to his young age, Emil is rather impressionable, and expresses a desire to learn various skills and tricks from the older veterans, though is often self conscious about his lesser skills when compared to that of the more experienced members of the group. Honest and trustworthy, Emil is compassionate and kind, if a little shy and soft-spoken. Loyal to a fault, Emil is more than willing to risk himself for the sake of others, and goes to great lengths to defend his loved ones. A very down to earth and grounded individual, Emil's calm and generally positive demeanor, while occasionally bordering on naivety, bolsters the spirits of those around him. Skills/Abilities: As a young Knight, Emil is well trained in multiple martial skills, but lacks field experience. He has fought alongside his lord-knight, while still a squire and is no stranger to battle, but is not what one would call a veteran. While young, and not as capable of an armsman as the rest of his older peers, Emil possesses worldly knowledge and skills unexpected from one his age, and is knowledgeable of a variety of skills in various fields. --- Martial Skills --- Adept Swordsmanship - As the son of a knight, and a knight himself, Emil has received martial training in various fields, and is capable with many weapons, but shows the most promise with a sword. Skilled enough to face down a common soldier or an untrained fighter and coming out no worse for wear, Emil struggles against more hardened and experienced foes. Journeyman Spearmanship - Along with his swordsmanship, Emil has received training with the spear and lance, though it is clear he shows a preference to the sword. His stance and form are solid, and the spear is by nature, an easy weapon to pick up and use. He lacks the refinement of a master spearman, but can still use it with relative effectiveness. Journeyman Archery - Alongside his other martial skills, Emil has also been trained in the use of the bow and arrow. He is neither particularly fast, nor particularly accurate with the bow, and is for all intents and purposes, average. He does slightly better with a crossbow, and primarily utilizes this skill for hunting. Journeyman Horseback Riding - As a knight, Emil is trained on how to ride a horse, take care of a horse, and fight from a horse, though it is clear that he would prefer to do combat while on the ground. Stamina stemming from his youthfulness allows him to ride for hours without considerable exhaustion. Trained Armor use - Years of training have taught Emil how to quickly don and remove plate armor, and can thus move with more dexterity and quickness than one without training would be able to. He is also well versed on the care of plate armor. Trained Shield use - Several years of training has shown Emil how to properly brace and use a shield to block and deflect blows. As he is not the largest presence on the battlefield, when faced with larger foes, Emil primarily relies on deflecting and sidestepping enemy blows rather than attempting to completely stop or black oncoming attacks --- Trade Skills --- Journeyman Cooking - While not a master chef by any meaning of the word, Emil is resourceful and can cook a variety of meals with what little resources are often available while in the field. Journeyman Surgery/First Aid - Unable to treat wounds via magic, Emil has been trained and is experienced with treating a variety of minor and moderate wounds, and is even capable of some surgery for more serious wounds. These treatments are not magic, and do not mend wounds instantly- nor do they guarantee the successful mending of wounds, but can serve to stave off death until more experienced doctors or healers can provide aid. Journeyman Crafting - From tailoring and needlework, to leather-working, Emil, while not particularly amazing at any craftsman's trade, is skilled enough to make field repairs to clothing and armor. Magic Emil has no skill or control over magic, though it appears that he may have the affinity for magic. He views magic with suspicion and a small amount of fear, and while he has accepted magic as a facet of life, he is still unnerved by it. Backstory: The city of Edessa is a fair sized city-state located along the coast of __(mainland continent neighboring Silver Lily Isles)__. Edessa is a constitutional monarchy led primarily by the King, and a group of senators. It is not a major military power, but is known for its high quality knights and sturdy and reliable trade ships, and also contributed a large portion of its forces Mage-Wars decades ago. Edessa, due to its proximity to the Silver Lily Isles, often trades with the settlements on the Isle, most notably Waeldeshore. Edessa and Waeldeshore have built a rather positive trade relationship over the past two decades, and ships bearing Edessan flags are common in Waeldeshore and vice versa. Emil, youngest son of the Erran family, comes from a long line of Edessan Knights. Emil, like the rest of his brothers were introduced to the lifestyle of a knight at a young age, and were immersed in their culture from the moment he could walk. The son of a Edessan Knight and his wife, Emil and his brothers were well educated at a young age and were taught manners as well as basic martial skills and knowledges as children. Throughout their childhood, Emil and his brothers would often venture into the city to play with other children. Emil made friends easily, and was known for his gentle and sensitive demeanor, while the rest of his brothers were respected for their various other qualities. As they Erran children grew older, they were trained in the ways of various weapons, such as the spear and sword, and were trained in horsemanship and riding. After his seventh birthday, Emil was apprenticed to another noble family to serve as a page, where he would begin to further refine horsemanship and swordsmanship as well as learn the intricacies of reading and writing. A naturally perceptive and relatively intelligent child, Emil was treated well by his host family, and learned much under their tutelage. The Knights of Edessa, or the Edessan Knights as many know them as, are an order of knights based in the city of Edessa. These knights are tasked with serving and protecting the people of Edessa, and often promote humanitarian movements to hunting monsters in the surrounding areas. These stalwart warriors are well known for both their valor and martial skill, despite their relatively small numbers. Every male member of the Erran family had been an Edessan Knight at one point in their life. Emil's brother is among the famed members of the Edessan Knights, and one of the King's personal guards. Each of Emil's brothers has already entered service in the order. As he turned 14, he became squire to a famed Edessan Knight, where he furthered his training, continuing his work on bladesmanship and horsemanship, as well as learning archery, music, speech, and skills befitting a young knight. Here he learned how to take care of, and maintain armor, how to tend horses and treat wounds. The next several years were difficult, his knight was fair, but strict, and offered him nothing but the most difficult challenges to face. Now a fresh 18 years old, Emil's journey to become a full fledged knight of Edessan has been completed, and Emil undertakes his first few journeys as his own knight. A message from the Great Sage Genevieve of Waeldeshore gives Emil his first taste of an adventure that he can call his own. Possessions, Equipment, Weapons: Father's Sword - A gift given to Emil by his father, upon his recent knighting. The sword is forged from Dwarven Steel- a special dwarven metallurgy technique that results in a tougher, denser, more durable steel. The blade is old and worn from use, but still remains a reliable weapon. A shorter than average bastard sword, it is light and maneuverable enough to be held in one hand, but its two handed grip makes it able to be wielded with two. Common Spear - A 6 foot pole of ash wood, with a steel tip attached. One of the most common personal weapons in the world, this weapon is easily used, and easily replaced. Able to be wielded with one hand, but most effective with two. Shortbow & Quiver - A short yew bow meant for hunting. Plain and simple, without any sort of frills, other than leather wrapping around the grip. A wooden and leather quiver contains 20 arrows. Both are typically stored on the outer saddlebags of Emil's horse. Heater Shield - A mid-sized shield with the Erran family coat of arms emblazoned across it. It is a lightweight metal shield that can be strapped to the forearm and secured with the hand. It has a leather strap that allows it to be slung over the shoulder/worn over the back. Edessan Half Plate - a cut down suit of plate armor generally utilized by mounted Edessan knights and soldiers. Plates protect major parts of the body, while the rest of the body is protected with tough leather and mail under a tunic. This is to allow light weight, and greater mobility while mounted. The benefits confer to foot combat as well. Roark, Horse - A well bred, multi-purpose horse ridden by Emil. Roark is a calm, well mannered horse, that doesn't scare easily. Roark wears boiled leather barding(armor) on his face, neck, and body. The barding is lightweight, and can protect Roark from glancing blows but doesn't provide much protection elsewise. Its still better than nothing, Emil argues. Roark also has saddlebags on his sides and behind the saddle. Roark's saddlebags contain: A pair of leather waterskins, a small pouch with money, a tinderbox, lines and tackle for fishing, a small iron bowl for cooking, a small hatchet for wood gathering, a small knife and whetstone, a length of rope (approx. 30 feet), a spool of fine thread and needle, a roll of clean cloth and bottle of spirits for cleaning and treating wounds, a pouch of herbal ointment, a lantern with several spare candles, a few days worth of provisions for Emil as well as his horse. Behind the saddle is a blanket and spare clothes are wrapped in a roll of canvas.
55,698	1,527	34	2,426	2,292	The honor is mine, The youthful knight replied in calm, hushed tone, adding only, "Truth be told, I think the offer almost too good, but perhaps I am not properly gauging the gravity of this task." His concerns were legitimate, and as the elder half beast listened along to his words further, she was pleased to know he had ultimately opted for the quest all the same, speaking aloud now rather than keeping to himself and his newfound compatriot. It was now that Sakaala's eyes, both sighted and sightless, looked to the man of mingled descents as he was kneeling still. For what he was, he had surprised her and this seemed to be in no short supply, either. There needed to be more positive revelations. Taking the left hand to her cheek, stroking the tawny hide that it was with her thick, powerful digits, she moved her attention onward - beyond Sir Erran and Sir Hepburnberg, past the lavish, ornate chair and table and to Lady Genevieve. It was as though she smiled, but the expression was more a smirk, that there was enough for her to work with - enough that the old ranger was confident that some good could be done - yet along the lines that she was at least amused. Not because the subject matter was humorous, but because one was bound by an emotional tie, two others by honor and station, and her? Her doings were her own, but there was little doubt allowing anyone control over this relic, be it Lady Genevieve or these mages, was truly for the benefit of anyone. If she had to entrust their acquisition and protection to someone, veterans of Waeldeshore and seasoned mercenaries were not bad candidates. "A tempting offer you make, Lady Genevieve." The beast woman's hand returned to her side as she stepped beside the two knightly men, "As I see it, you value greatly this relic personally, enough so to make a worthwhile sum the reward beyond just notoriety." Her growled, stirring voice continued, "All I then ask is, if we were to procure it for you, what would you in fact do with it? Provided you have no ill intent or personal gains to be made, I see no further concern from myself." Being careful to tread lightly with her words, she knew the only contracts to be made with such discussions was hollow. If Lady Genevieve wished to best these magi for the sole purposes of accomplishing what they as a whole set out to do, but for herself, there was little now the Huntress could do until such truths were made evident. She simply needed the other woman's word for peace of mind - events later were sure to play out as to who might be wrong or right. After all, this would not have been the first time the lioness had been responsible for aiding those whose words and intents were maligned.	Name: "Sakaala" Referring to herself as "Sakaala", it is unknown what her name truly is, but there exists reason enough to believe that her assumed name has apparent symbolism, most likely amongst those familiar to her fallen people who placed great value in the meaning of all things, most importantly those belonging to themselves. For those in the know of obscure and arcane cultural history, she is "the finality" or more simply "the last (whole) one", a sobering title that is not only accurate but most disheartening. Species: Monstrous Humanoid The origin and types of monstrous humanoids vary greatly, with some being the product of twisted arcane magic unchecked to others being the work of some divine force. They range from the more "common", as with the minotaur, centaur or harpy, to the more exotic and rare. Sakaala, as well as those who once made up her people, bordered the spectrum of the latter more than the former, being mostly obscure but recorded comparatively well. However, the question of what created a small number of lionmen abroad the realm is unknown, but their kind existed like many monsters before the Age of Mortals, near certainly having an origin many ancient eras past. Only in recent times has this rare bloodline, as with many other unusual beings of similar sorts, all but disappeared after prolonged hunting of "aberrants" by paranoid mortals in the wake of the near successful invasion of the plane. Age: 47 Although longer lived than most mortal men by virtue of unnatural blood, Sakaala is no youth and certainly no longer in her prime. In spite of these things, as with her natural relatives, she is a remarkable example of longevity which has been extended yet by dabbling in arcane arts and an incredible will to survive. Description: Sakaala is distinct in just race alone; owing both to her incredible scale among mortal men, at the height of horse of twenty-two hands, and her overtly leonine features of which are only vaguely humanoid in nature and otherwise quite savage. Her dense sand tone hide is badly scarred about the right of her body, bearing some wounds of which were so visibly savage that even magical aid has not wholly righted them, but the most notable being the blindness of her right eye. While no less lame in the right arm than blind in the right eye, almost entirely numb, she retains its use by sense of self alone. Ambidextrous in response because of this weakness, her tendency to shore up vulnerabilities is remarkable. She distinctly conceals the worst of her injuries beneath her partial robe, and outside of the obvious blindness of an eye, her body is in remarkable condition for a female of her growing age, violent history and having bore offspring in previous. While not overtly robust, her musculature is still visible and her strength measurably stronger than many men. Instead of these qualities, she is more remembered for the gold that is the color of her eyes, barring the blindness; they are akin to portals of lingering sadness and fierce resolve - the same lament of failure and animal cry of defiance entwined. Minimalist in her armoring, Sakaala bears a well worn mithral breastplate upon her chest and a matching pauldron and bracer to her weaker arm, ending it in a fingerless leather glove. Beneath her limited armor she dresses in the remnants of an aged arcanist's robe that ends just beneath her sizable bust, rolling it at the shoulder upon the right limb and let loose upon her strong left arm; the formerly black material having faded to a dusted grey. It, like the rest of her regalia, is undoubtedly salvaged from a fallen friend or a fallen foe, becoming both a prize and a memento. Upon her waist fits a wide tribal belt and battered sash keeping rolled, pressed leather leggings that are accompanied by a pair of slender, exotic daggers worn at the thigh about her lower half. While the belt she adorns herself was once common to her kind, they exist now only as prizes in the hands of grim collectors. Worn about her neck hangs a morbid reminder of her enemy's hatred for her people - a collection of fangs and claws - which was most certainly pried from the cold, dead grasp of one of her felled foes of which is accompanied by another, not nearly minor trinket; a decorative necklace of polished black stone upon a humble leather loop adorned with smaller decorative pieces. Not keen to speak of the second of the two pieces of finery, she often counts the poached points of her other necklace. Bearing a true hand-and-a-half elven blade of indeterminate age as her favored weapon, it is uncertain if it were a tool of conflict initially her own or one which she liberated from her would-be killers. Forged of the rare ore mithral, it is polished to an exquisite silvery shine instead of dulled with age about the fine of the blade. Despite its characteristic remarkable lightness and finesse, the weapon is truly designed to be wielded with both hands by its bearer, yet Sakaala's great scale and greater strength allows her to wield it with deadly ease in a single pawed hand. Unnervingly, so much as drawing the blade - let alone swinging it - sets it to ring faintly in a short lived but soft harmonic hum, but more than anything the bite of the sword itself leaves such keen blows that they are almost unsettling to look upon. Personality and Alignment: Neutral Good The benevolent matriarch, her inherently motherly animal nature follows her strongly with the incredible violence, that both magical and mundane, which she is capable of should she or those she considers her own be threatened. Kindly even toward those wary of her, her wrath is not easily provoked, but no threats made against her or those she views as companions are considered just idle. Perhaps unconsciously she tends to the wounded, acquires fresh provisions, and stays awake during watches all to ensure the continued survival of her adoptive company. Aging as she is, she has embraced the role of a vizier and sage, providing great insight and wisdom to those who inquire upon her. No friend of evil and abiding by her own sense of morality, she is best described as an intellectual and spiritual benefactor. Skills/Abilities: Lore Expertise Having lived such a varied and long life has graced Sakaala with many skills, the most notable is her vast knowledge upon matters ranging from historical events to distant locales, from to forces of nature to arcane mysteries. Self taught, her incredible recollection is imperfect and incomplete, but more often than not her acquired lore is relevant. She specializes in the intellectual categories of arcana, history, nature and locales with little greater knowledge on other matters. Martial Adept There are those who achieve martial proficiency through strength of arms alone and then there are those who acquire combat superiority by raw skill. Sakaala's inhuman strength and agility lend well to life lived by the sword, but it is her intuition, intelligence and force of personality that truly make her a deadly foe as she not only understands the principals of conflict, but actively anticipates them with preternatural skill. This so called "blade-magic" is a blend of martial arts, mysticism, and swordplay - at times engaging in impossible feats martial through magic and at others achieved by intense discipline and practice alone. Sakaala makes up for her disabilities by simply being more skillful and magically inclined than most her foes. Bolstering Presence While Sakaala is present, her mere warrior nature supernaturally inspires mental resolve and great courage in the face of fear among herself and allies. Effects that attack the mind are weakened, and attempts to intimidate or cause fear are dampened heavily as the body, emotion, mind, and spirit are made hardened against such effects. Perfect Mind Honed by intense exposure to offensive magic, Sakaala's force of personality provides her immense leverage against mind-affecting effects. The bane of charms, enchantments and illusions, she often rapidly comes to her senses, especially in the heat of battle or when her companions are threatened. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Steel Wind This maneuver involves a sudden turn of the blade that lands an otherwise singular blow against one target to also connect with another. A difficult attack to employ in the hands of the untrained, its uncanny speed and incredible finesse work are further augmented by Sakaala's ambidexterity, making her a deadly foe against numbers of enemies, especially the lightly armored. This attack is effectively a single attack against multiple targets. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Wall of Blades The agility Sakaala can display for brief periods of time even without her magic is unsettling. With lightning speed, Sakaala can counter a single melee or ranged attack, blocking or deflecting the worst of the blow with her own weapon, even in the worst of scenarios with precognition-like intuition. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Seasoned Ranger A born predator, Sakaala was one of many huntresses of her people, no less acting as a wildlands warrior in times of danger when threatened. Having survived alone from these skills for years, she is an able huntress and would be considered expert in the wilderness, capable of even eluding enemies and striking unexpectedly in natural environments. Of her practical skills, she is a trained gatherer of flora and fauna thus able to provide for herself and others in the ways of naturally provided rations, traditional medicine, pure water and various feats of outdoorsmanship. She is difficult to track when being followed and hardly inhibited by natural terrain. Magic: Channel Spell The ability to cast magical spells and effects is no small wonder even in a world where magic is possibility, but the power to do so while accompanying martial maneuvers is another great feat altogether. Able to channel some of her spells through her natural and weapon attacks, she unleashes devastating blows that inflict a variety of other effects on the victims of the attack. Working in conjunction with her supernatural martial arts, she can perform these abilities often in unexpected ways such as casting a single spell and striking multiple foes with its effects at once. She is not only limited to a small selection of spells to channel a day, but cannot do so extensively without becoming exhausted mentally. Bladeweave A swing of the sword moves with awesome magical grace and almost rhythmic perfection while giving off glints of faint light. Any creature unfortunate enough to be struck might find itself briefly dazed for a moment of hesitation by the fascinating magical swordsmanship exhibited. Creatures that have already been dazed are just as likely to be dazed again, but those resistant to illusions are not likely to be so awed. Combustion A corona of roiling heated air sheathes the blade, leaving waves of intense heat in the wake. A creature or object struck by the weapon discharges the spell, causing the target to instantly ignite in a personal inferno and setting them intensely ablaze for a moment before the magical flames vanish. If hasty or fortunate, a creature can extinguish the lingering non-magical flames left behind - if not careful, they continue to burn with mundane fire until its fuel is exhausted or its air is cut off. Enfeeblement An ominous dark green glimmer envelops the weapon's blade and is discharged upon successful strike, magically debilitating the muscular strength of the victim. Each instance of crippled physical might is additive, and creatures depleted of their strength are temporarily paralyzed and rendered helpless. Their lost strength returns minutes later after the last blow endured. Fatiguing A faint dullness and aura of immaterial grey shrouds the weapon's blade and is discharged upon a successful blow. The so affected creature is overcome by fatigue, slowing its physical strength and reflexes greatly, but most notably leaving it tired and unable to run. The weight of their debilitation is brief, lasting only a few prolonged moments and once the effects wear off, they are no worse for wear because of it. Shocking A scatter of sparks and silent cyan-white lightning shudder about the sword's length, pulling it more accurately toward metal targets. Upon striking, the magical effect discharges with a dull localized clap of thunder and the target is struck by a mighty burst of lightning from the weapon, jarring them. This channeled effect is much more likely to land upon metal targets than those not bearing much metal. True Strike A bearer of a weapon to be imbued takes a brief moment to gain precognative insight into their next attack, greatly increasing its likelihood to land, yet this strength comes at the cost of denying the caster action for a moment. Now enchanted for its next blow, it ignores both magical and practical forms of concealment and seems to find the weakest point in the target's defenses. Once it strikes, the benefit ends and the aura of perfect clarity is gone. Wraithstrike A phantasmal air surrounds the now shimmering blade which is sheathed in ghostly wisps. For a brief moment, it strikes with deathly accuracy, penetrating conventional defenses such as armor or even benefits such as magical deflectiveness, needing only to merely touch the victim to deal its damage in full as though it were a spirit. Upon striking, the effect ends and the weapon returns to its normal qualities. Natural Sorceress As a creature born of magic, the very essence of latent power lies within Sakaala and those that were like her, infused with every ounce of their person. It is from this obscure pool that she draws upon, evoking sorcerous power on whim, but having deeply specialized in doing so; her repertoire of magical spells not vast or complex, but instead practical and martial. She blends the martial arts and swordplay with her magic instead of casting traditional spells by and far, although she can indeed manifest some purely magic effects. Traditionally, few monstrous humanoids are able mages - instead relying upon their natural superiority to combat magical and mundane threats through sheer force and intuition. Sakaala, in spite of these things and the taboos of her now lost society, has taken up arcane power to compensate for her debilitation and growing age. It is known that many mortals are driven mad by arcane power with time, but many monsters seem no worse for wear. As with all sorcerers, Sakaala's magic depletes throughout the day when she expends it. Recovering her inherent energy when she rests for a prolonged time, she relies upon measured application of mystic force so not to expend all of her magic in a short time although she is capable of doing so. Least (0th) Arcane Mark, Amanuensis, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Read Magic, Touch of Fatigue Lesser (1st) Nerveskitter, Shocking Grasp, Truestrike, Ray of Enfeeblement Common (2nd) Combust, Bladeweave, Wraithstrike Great (3rd) Haste, Dispel Magic Arcane Mark A visible or invisible permanent mark of magical enchantment is placed upon the target without causing harm. If placed upon a creature, it fades with time over a month. When invisible, it requires a creature that can see invisibility to notice the mark. Otherwise only an effect that detects magic renders the mark visible, but one must be able to read magic as well to understand its meaning, if it even has one. Amanuensis An invisible force, when provided with text to read and parchment, begins transcribing the mundane words of another work. The force continues to generate the copied text word for word on to the initially blank parchment, skipping any illustrations and magical enchantments it encounters in its work, leaving their locations empty. While it does not translate the writings, should they be in a language not understood, it does continue to copy them until its duration ends or it pauses, awaiting more parchment. Detect Magic The viewer can visually detect magical effects within their line of sight, out to a short distance as glowing radiation. If they wish to concentrate they may separate different auras and determine their strength, and with further concentration attempt to determine the specific spell effect that is active. Powerful magical effects and creatures leave lingering auras, and appear more distinctly upon focus. Dispel Magic A powerful, brief burst of nullifying magic affects a creature or object, or dispels an area instantly of any temporary magical effects and interrupts ongoing ones or those being cast. The dispelling affect always targets the most powerful spells first, then attempts to remove the progressively weaker ones of its target. Against a creature casting a spell, this effect causes the spell to immediately fail to cast. Haste The caster and nearby allies blur with sudden, lightning fast alacrity, moving with intense speed and reflexes. Their attacks become so rapid they are a near blur of motion, and their movement causes them to shimmer with enchanted speed. Striking more accurately and evading more rapidly, this effect lasts only a few intense prolonged moments. Mage Hand An invisible force may manipulate objects through concentration as though it were an extension of its master. Although capable of only lifting light objects, it has the full functionality of a phantasmal hand free of a body, giving it great range of motion. A form of very limited magical psychokinesis, its range is short and it disperses to nothing if it travels far. Message A distant conversation may be held at a whispered tone, sent to a small number of selected creatures. Although each may reply individually, the visibly spoken words are sent to all affected individuals. It bypasses line of sight, limited out to several hundred feet, but is stopped by magical silence, dense metal or stone, or several feet of earth or wood. The words spoken are identical to what is being said and do not transcend language barriers. Nerveskitter An icy rush races through the blood of the affected individual, spurring them to act or react to danger well before they regularly would be capable. Immediate in effect and its casting, it gives the the creature great precognition for but a moment, allowing them to act with greater initiative. Although limited in range out to a short distance, it heightens the senses and reactions greatly for a crucial few seconds. Prestidigitation This effect can generate a wide array of more minor effects, of which are humble yet practical uses of magic. They range from cleaning to dirtying an object, creating minor levitation in small objects, chill or warm slightly, ignite or extinguish mundane flames, create small fragile objects or play ethereal musical notes, and so forth. While it cannot duplicate stronger spells, it perhaps can evoke the illusion of greater magic at play. Read Magic Enabling a reader to explicitly read magically concealed text, it can be used to translate runes, scrolls, symbols and other forms of enchanted text. It does not invoke any latent magical effect of the writing, but it allows the reader to no longer require the ability to read that enchanted text through magic, giving them inherent understanding of it. Backstory: Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary By "The Mage", quoted from "Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary", Chapter VI "On the Subject of Sakaala" "Hunter, warrior, arcanist - over the span of a lifetime one has many varied roles that they might confront, but few ever live them so fully as to explore them in their entirety. She however, has. Undeniably left with the signs of terrible wounds past, most notably the blindness of her right eye and blatant lameness of the right arm, she has endured trials no one, be them man or beast, should be forced to confront alone. Born an exceptional huntress but appointed a warrior, she served loyally on behalf of her scarce peoples, keeping grim threats beyond, those we do not suffer, at bay. Although she, as with select others among her lot, served admirably on behalf man, not all men were so approving. It was in this she was forced to fight to the last beside those who had become her sisters on an ever losing front, but for all of her skill even she too was felled. She too has felt the bite of defeat... all the more memorable than that of victory. She does not speak to us about what became of her children, but when you look upon her eyes you see that same hurt of someone with nothing left to her in this world. It is for these reasons she turned to things most men believe left better unknown - the arcane. For one reason or another, perhaps because she is not of mortal stock, she has acquired the capacity to wield this mystic thing as any other weapon. She has made her body, and even her blade, its conduit. It is all almost a direct extension of herself, the way in which she flows like graceful death both natural and magical; the manner in which she ably adapts her styles, be them as subtle as her favored hand to the placement of her feet, even in her age. I wonder if she is truly satisfied now, watching over us like our matriarch - some relic of a dead people - blessing us with kindness we cannot possibly repay. After all, what could we offer her? We are but mere men; arrogant, brash, foolish and young. What really drives her to aid us in the heat of conflict or tend to our wounds thereafter? A motherhood she still lives vicariously? Whatever the reason, she has more than earned my faith in her; my admiration for her."
55,699	1,527	35	276	729	That's a good question, Regina said, floating to the Lioness's side. "I don't doubt her motives myself but it would help settle the doubts of anyone else." She floated down with a frown as she looked around again. "I have a way that would settle everyone's doubts easily." she smiled. "All everyone has to do is let me in their minds." She made no attempt to penetrate anyone's mind though kept at the ready in case Genevieve agreed. "And it would prevent lies. I remember last time, a few of the group questioned your motive then and, at least, one of them, if I remember right, called you a liar. Then again, I did end up coming in halfway through the conversation." She smiled softly, trying to force the thoughts of Isabeau's betrayal to the back of her mind.	Name: Regina Hills Species: Halfling Age: 57 Description: Regina is a bit tall for a halfling, a whole six inches taller than the average of 3 feet, with long, reddish brown hair and chocolatey brown eyes. She has a pale complexion and a few small wrinkles, preferring to stay in the shade, and a thin but curvy figure that is slowly catching up with her age. Regina wears a thin layer of leather armor over her clothes with multiple daggers hidden on her and a pair of longtooth daggers on her hips. Regina carries no less than 20 throwing daggers, 10 normal daggers and a pair of longtooth daggers on her at any time. Personality: Regina is the type of woman to flirt with some of the younger women though nothing too far as she doesn't want to be left again. She's easy to anger if you say the wrong thing. However, she does keep her anger under control while at work. She's no longer the happy-go-lucky woman she once was, instead taking everything carefully and not letting anyone close again. Skills/Abilities: Regina has great aim with her throwing daggers and is proficient with her normal daggers to block and redirect, allowing her to use her longtooth daggers, with their little extra length, to attack. She can also pick locks, pick pockets, find and remove traps, track people, most any skill a thief would find very helpful. Other than that, she is an excellent with her psionic powers, allowing her to do many things most people cannot. -Combat Mind: Using this, she has a clear understanding of where her allies and enemies are. -Telekinesis: She can levitate most objects though nothing bigger than a small human male for more than a couple minutes. -Levitation: She can lift herself up to 12 feet from whatever she's standing on. -Complete Healing: With a 12-hour meditation process, she can heal herself of all injuries, illnesses, poisons and the like. -Quick Healing: With a matter of a few minutes and a lot of concentration, she can heal her small injuries, though nothing bigger than a small cut. -Adrenaline Control: By controlling the production and release of adrenaline in her system, she can give herself a temporary physical boost on demand. -Body Weaponry: Using this, she can turn her hands into dagger blades or go as far as her elbow for a shortsword blade. -Displacement: She can control where people see her, whether or not she moves. -Teleport: With this, she can teleport up to 200 feet away in the blink of an eye, with loud popping sounds emitting from both the place she teleports from and to. -Telepathy: Using this, she is able to communicate wordlessly with another intelligent being without having to worry about language barriers. -Daydream: She can cause another person's mind to wander, allowing her to pick their pockets and get away safely with a lower chance of getting caught. Magic: She has no magic though some have commented her psionics are similar. Backstory: Regina was raised in a big halfling city, well as big a city as the halflings would build, with her numerous siblings. The only way she could stand out in her family enough to be remembered was the fact that, at a young age, she could make apples fly to her hand. She had practically never spent any time at home once she was old enough and had gotten caught picking locks and grabbing an apple for a snack. She had eventually decided, after nearly having her hand chopped off for the thousandth time, to leave the city and find a better life. She soon was found by a thieves' guild that took her in and began training her. She spent the next 15 years in the guild, training as hard as she could to get faster and stronger though her strength didn't improve by much. They found out about her psionic skills rather quickly and, being only the second psionic in the guild, learned from an older man who taught her how to teleport, heal small wounds, levitate items other than apples, such as herself, and so on. After her training was finished, she began traveling again, ending up in Waeldeshore. It was there she met a group that was going to be fighting a dragon. She decided to join them, supplying the team with a lot of jerky during their travel to the cave. They ended up stealing a magic artifact from a sleeping dragon, one of two in that particular cave and escaping rather quickly. Upon arriving back at the town, most of them decided to spend the night. Regina offered to share a room with one of the more beautiful, yet still a bit scary, women on the team. When she awoke, however, she saw her ally was gone. She had searched for days but the trail was cold and she couldn't follow what she couldn't find. Instead, she decided to go east. She went far east, ending up in a land much different than what she was used to a year later. It was there she met another halfling woman, a bard who instantly captured her heart. She traveled with the bard, acting as her bodyguard for a decade and a half until she was injured badly. She was unconscious for days as she slowly healed herself from nearly dying but, when she awoke, the bard was gone. She asked around but nobody had seen the halfling bard around in days. She had been abandoned again. With nothing else to do, she returned to the west. It took 4 years to travel back, as she had done other jobs along the way to distract her, but she eventually returned to Wealdeshore. With not much else to do, she became a guard for one of the local pubs. It's been 5 years since her return and, in that time, she's proven to be a great asset as well as a new resident for the foreseeable future.
55,700	1,527	36	1,054	1,812	Reactions varied vastly among her crowd that it was nearly impossible to keep up. Genevieve jumped slightly as Regina through a force of rage at her wall, causing a fracture in the wall. Spider line cracks formed beneath her fist and drywall dust flaked to the floor. Genevieve found it hard to conceal her grin. At the very least it told her that the little wench of a witch wouldn’t live through this venture. For the most part, everyone seemed to be of a similar mind. They agreed with her terms and were up for the challenge. The mercenary of course seemed pleased with the sum. Fifty Thousand was indeed a lot, she was sure she would at least capture his attention with that amount. The others were of a different breeding though. The Knight indeed had accepted the terms, but voiced that he would not accept the coin, the youngest member of their group chiming in to accept alongside Ionathan. Such a notion would be unbecoming of a Knight, and she expected nothing else from him. Her interest piqued as the beast spoke up. Sakaala had spoken up before, her concerns all worthwhile. But her tone was different this time; careful and specific, sincere even, as if simply looking for reassurance. “A tempting offer you make, Lady Genevieve. As I see it, you value greatly this relic personally, enough so to make a worthwhile sum the reward beyond just notoriety.” Genevieve nodded along as she continued. “All I then ask is, if we were to procure it for you, what would you in fact do with it? Provided you have no ill intent or personal gains to be made, I see no further concern from myself” It was certainly a fair question, she couldn’t blame Sakaala for asking. She paused a moment, looking to apply the same care to her words that the woman had chosen. Unfortunately, any answer to be given was abruptly cut off by Regina. “That is a good question,” Regina said, floating to the Lioness’s side. “I have a way that would settle everyone’s doubts easily. All everyone has to do is let me in their minds.” Genevieve was growing impatient with the hin, her demeanor suddenly changed. The inward shout she had given her previously had become outward. “For the last time, NO!” she looked at Regina with a scowl, her features become darkened by anger. “I will not open my mind to you, you meddling creature. The last time you so rudely entered, I was nearly overwhelmed and over run by not only my own thoughts but yours as well.” The sage sighed slowly, attempting to calm herself as the breath flowed through her, finally returning her attention to Sakaala. “Your question is fair, and therefore I –willingly- answer”, she glanced at Regina as her voice peaked. “In the battles long ago, the demon Zargon had appeared in our realm. Whether this was the doing of Jeltheor, an evil mage whose deeds plagued Waeldeshore, or if this was by the actions of Zargon himself, we do not know. However the peril he and his minions inflicted in many regions of our world is unspeakable. When our group had defeated him previously, he had not died, but merely went into hiding. There have been signs, odd happenings throughout this side of the world that indicate his return, or at least the coming of it. Once I am in the possession of all three keys, I will be able to defeat them once and for all; A feat that my order had striven to achieve, but had unfortunately failed at. I seek its power not for my own, but to rid the world of this evil. It will take much more than what was delivered upon him in Waeldeshore to take him down for good. And I do not intend to let him live this time. Zargon is not the only one that we have to worry about either. There are others that flock to his banner. That is why it is imperative that I acquire all three keys.” She turned, glancing over the others before her gaze finally falling on Regina. “Considering what you had gone through in your previous battle by my side, I do hope this satisfies your questions.” “It is getting late, and I would have my champions well rested and prepared. Should you all be in agreement with my terms, I have prepared rooms for each of you, I do hope they are to your liking. Your beds have already been turned down, and there are hot baths waiting for you in your personal quarters. If there is nothing else, my aid will escort you upstairs.” She nodded slowly, waiting for their acceptance of her offer before moving from her chair.	Name: Isabeau Falkenrath Species: Human/Witchling Age: 52 Description: Having let her hair grow out, her dark auburn locks are typically tied up in a braided bun, several pieces, refusing to be bound, frame her face, complementing an olive skin tone. A grey strand here and there, depicting age. Her eyes are something to behold; light green surrounded by a thin ring of gold. Freckles sprinkle lightly over a smooth face, nearly void of any wrinkles representative of a woman coming into her fifties. She stands at about 5’7” tall, a petite upper body sitting upon wider hips and thick thighs. Not overly muscular though her body is tone. When exposed, displayed on her back are a number of scars, some seeming a bit more prominent. A rather fresh one sits just above her right brow. She may have aged some from the last time any had seen her, but she certainly doesn't look as old as she is. Personality: She is typically cold and brash, on the outside anyway. Her overconfident ways have often gotten her in a pinch, but not one that she couldn't ever find her way out of. She never takes the easy way out and has a soft spot for those who have been bullied. Having grown used to the luxuries coin can buy, she would prefer a more lavish lifestyle. Shiny things may distract her from time to time, but it is never to say she had an easy life. Clothing: She typically wears light fabrics, leathers and cloths of darker shades. A large cowl normally covers most of her features. Dark brown leather boots extend up just past her knees, straps and buckles secure padding where would be needed. Plain cloth pants are held up by a thick black belt, lined with a few pouches and oddities. Weapons: Through her training, she has become a jack of all trades. Though her favorite weapon is the battle axe strapped to her back. She has a dagger hidden within her boots and one saddled to her belt at her right hip. The dagger hanging from her belt is a curved blade, with a ruby embedded within the hilt. Skills and Abilities: Part of the reason why the witches wanted to do away with her because she did not have the affinity for magic as they did. However her time in the Assassin’s Keep allowed her to develop other skills and techniques: Shadow Prison: Isabeau is able to shadow step to her foe for an attack. During this attack, her foe’s movement speed is drastically reduced temporarily Wild Blow: Isabeau is able to manipulate the shadows around her weapons, increasing the damage done by her attacks. The attack is usually used when attempting to sunder a shield. Wildfire: Despite not having the understanding of the weave, as the witches did, Isabeau was bestowed with a gift from her mother. The gift of Wildfire. This gift takes an enormous amount of energy to control and wield. When called upon, the shadows immediately surrounding her will ignite and deadly flames will coat her axe, adding fire damage to her attacks. This generally leaves Isabeau quite drained afterwards In her time away from civilization, she has learned to tap into the shadow realm. The more time she spent in the dark reflection of home, the less stable her footing became in each world. She would shift back and forth, sometimes without even meaning to. Magic:N/A -see skills above Backstory: Rumors of long ago, tell a tale of a witch who fell in love with a prince from a far away land. The prince had journeyed far in search of a magical herb that was said to cure a sickness plaguing his kingdom. He came upon a young woman living deep within the woods. Beautiful in every way imaginable, the Prince became enthralled with the young woman and insisted that she leave the woods and return with him to his castle. As tempting as the offer was, she could not leave her home. For she was a witch, just as her mother before her, and so on down the line. Their family and gifts had been banished from the kingdom long ago, and since, they had taken refuge in the forest, tending to the wilds and those who dwell within its sanctuary. Disturbed by the story, the prince vowed that he would speak with his father to lift their exile if she would return with him as his bride. Gleefully, the young woman accepted. And with the prince as her guest, she spent her last few days in the woods saying her goodbyes and making arrangements for after she left. Those last few nights blanketed by the stars, we're magical for her and the prince. Though as the story goes, it was the last shred of happiness for the young couple. Grandmother Amari, the high witch of their clan, had high expectations for the young witch. Plans, that did not include the Prince, that would've been especially ruined if the prince took her away to become a princess in the castle. Though a silver lining appeared that would help Amari's plans along. And so the high witch gathered her kin, and her plot for war went into action. On the eve before the two lovers were to leave for the castle, Amari had one of the youngest within their clan travel to the cottage where the two were staying. She silently crept in, cloaked within the shadows and darkness of the night. With one clean swipe of her blade, she sliced his throat open, and without anyone noticing, made her way back out. He bled out onto the bed next to his beloved, who never stirred, and never realized his death until the next morning. It wasn’t until many months later did they all realize the young witch was with child and when the news had traveled to the High Witch, it was ordered to discard the baby once it was born. The young witch with fire red hair and green eyes encircled with a gold ring would never know her daughter. Isabeau continued to meet only betrayal and despair as she grew older unfortunately. Bred into a world of death and darkness, she was raised within the Keep of the Assassin’s Guild and was honed into the land’s deadliest weapon. She was taught to cast all emotions aside, especially that of love. They told her that love made people weak, love would hold her back, get her killed. And just as they had warned her, love had been her undoing and led her to flee. ~~*~~ Since her departure of Waeldeshore, much has happened ((All to be revealed in rp)). Her reasons for returning are her own, but she has vowed to make things right.
55,701	1,527	37	2,426	2,292	The Lady Genevieve's outburst spurred the old huntress' numb fingers to move; they responded out of reflex with a subtle twitch at their wide, padded tips, the sort that had she not had the control she did over them again through sheer practice and force of will, that they would have wished to draw blades. It was muscle memory and truly instinctual, evoking days old, but the half beast showed no other outward response and that which she just had were so subtle, she doubted if anyone but Diagorides could even notice. The man was a veteran fighter, a brawler too by the looks of it - someone who could read body language and use it like any other weapon against an enemy as leverage. "My questioning of her motivation," Sakaala began, looking unto the small woman who freely floated from the fine floors without any apparent magical means, "Is more a question of our own morality. Were we not to ask, even if she were to lie to us now, makes us little better than the same people you seem to hate, as there is obviously some reason to doubt their nobility." The Huntress adjusted herself, rolling her sizable shoulders slightly, and looking over the woman across the table who settled herself now, attempting to clearly regain her composure after the outburst. There was no doubt the warrior-mage was skeptical of the entire thing still, but now she had a few tools to mitigate her concerns. Not to dispel them, no, but at least provide enough peace of mind that the ordeal might be as righteous as it was presented. Humans were just as likely to be deceitful as they were not to be; this of course made working with them difficult. Other races? It varied by their individual lot, but at least one could always have a sense of their typical motives, and all this only served to remind the beastly woman more of what had become of her people. Lady Genevieve was not those humans, at least not credibly so, as their people had been mostly eradicated in recourse for their deeds and those of their forefathers; to hold a grudge or prejudice would be foolish. Her ears cocked forth again though as the arcanist spoke and stood from her chair with a slow nod. “It is getting late, and I would have my champions well rested and prepared. Should you all be in agreement with my terms, I have prepared rooms for each of you, I do hope they are to your liking. Your beds have already been turned down, and there are hot baths waiting for you in your personal quarters. If there is nothing else, my aid will escort you upstairs.” The offer of a warm bath was a notable perk, as she was accustomed to either the cold water, or whatever she could convince her typical - almost always soldiering sort - companions to allow her. Usually at best a pot of boiled water initially meant for something else; men typically did not argue with a woman several heads taller than them and with the body of a leonine monster, let alone one who could wield sword or will magic. Sadly, she acknowledged she could not be at ease here, let alone muse on the matter, at least not until she could meditate on the truth. "To destroy this... 'demon', this 'Zargon' of Waeldeshore fame, is no small feat - even for you." She spoke to the woman of the house with appropriately placed words, "So I can suppose it is reasonable as to why we, as we are, are needed. Not to mention the noteworthy reward in coin's sum and honor alike." "I will agree to this intent." The veteran said, just as carefully deciding how to pledge her expertise. It was a muddied business, the realm's system of pledges, honor and duty, so she intentionally agreed to the idea of destroying those who would aid this demonic presence with these relics, rather than to Lady Genevieve herself. After all, the power to discern truth and lies was a tool of those who practiced godly arts and worship, so her oath and intent needed to align. This practice, taught to her long ago when she first began down this path of warfare for hire, had kept her and her earliest companions out of trouble; those who first ignored her monstrous mien. Though unlike them, the elder felid actually had noble intentions beyond avoiding meeting her end under an executioner's axe. She looked to the two knights not far from her, of whom both had already sworn along with the halfing woman their willingness to carry out the lady of the house's request; her expression was mostly stoic, only her jowls curved subtly in a knowing smile.	Name: "Sakaala" Referring to herself as "Sakaala", it is unknown what her name truly is, but there exists reason enough to believe that her assumed name has apparent symbolism, most likely amongst those familiar to her fallen people who placed great value in the meaning of all things, most importantly those belonging to themselves. For those in the know of obscure and arcane cultural history, she is "the finality" or more simply "the last (whole) one", a sobering title that is not only accurate but most disheartening. Species: Monstrous Humanoid The origin and types of monstrous humanoids vary greatly, with some being the product of twisted arcane magic unchecked to others being the work of some divine force. They range from the more "common", as with the minotaur, centaur or harpy, to the more exotic and rare. Sakaala, as well as those who once made up her people, bordered the spectrum of the latter more than the former, being mostly obscure but recorded comparatively well. However, the question of what created a small number of lionmen abroad the realm is unknown, but their kind existed like many monsters before the Age of Mortals, near certainly having an origin many ancient eras past. Only in recent times has this rare bloodline, as with many other unusual beings of similar sorts, all but disappeared after prolonged hunting of "aberrants" by paranoid mortals in the wake of the near successful invasion of the plane. Age: 47 Although longer lived than most mortal men by virtue of unnatural blood, Sakaala is no youth and certainly no longer in her prime. In spite of these things, as with her natural relatives, she is a remarkable example of longevity which has been extended yet by dabbling in arcane arts and an incredible will to survive. Description: Sakaala is distinct in just race alone; owing both to her incredible scale among mortal men, at the height of horse of twenty-two hands, and her overtly leonine features of which are only vaguely humanoid in nature and otherwise quite savage. Her dense sand tone hide is badly scarred about the right of her body, bearing some wounds of which were so visibly savage that even magical aid has not wholly righted them, but the most notable being the blindness of her right eye. While no less lame in the right arm than blind in the right eye, almost entirely numb, she retains its use by sense of self alone. Ambidextrous in response because of this weakness, her tendency to shore up vulnerabilities is remarkable. She distinctly conceals the worst of her injuries beneath her partial robe, and outside of the obvious blindness of an eye, her body is in remarkable condition for a female of her growing age, violent history and having bore offspring in previous. While not overtly robust, her musculature is still visible and her strength measurably stronger than many men. Instead of these qualities, she is more remembered for the gold that is the color of her eyes, barring the blindness; they are akin to portals of lingering sadness and fierce resolve - the same lament of failure and animal cry of defiance entwined. Minimalist in her armoring, Sakaala bears a well worn mithral breastplate upon her chest and a matching pauldron and bracer to her weaker arm, ending it in a fingerless leather glove. Beneath her limited armor she dresses in the remnants of an aged arcanist's robe that ends just beneath her sizable bust, rolling it at the shoulder upon the right limb and let loose upon her strong left arm; the formerly black material having faded to a dusted grey. It, like the rest of her regalia, is undoubtedly salvaged from a fallen friend or a fallen foe, becoming both a prize and a memento. Upon her waist fits a wide tribal belt and battered sash keeping rolled, pressed leather leggings that are accompanied by a pair of slender, exotic daggers worn at the thigh about her lower half. While the belt she adorns herself was once common to her kind, they exist now only as prizes in the hands of grim collectors. Worn about her neck hangs a morbid reminder of her enemy's hatred for her people - a collection of fangs and claws - which was most certainly pried from the cold, dead grasp of one of her felled foes of which is accompanied by another, not nearly minor trinket; a decorative necklace of polished black stone upon a humble leather loop adorned with smaller decorative pieces. Not keen to speak of the second of the two pieces of finery, she often counts the poached points of her other necklace. Bearing a true hand-and-a-half elven blade of indeterminate age as her favored weapon, it is uncertain if it were a tool of conflict initially her own or one which she liberated from her would-be killers. Forged of the rare ore mithral, it is polished to an exquisite silvery shine instead of dulled with age about the fine of the blade. Despite its characteristic remarkable lightness and finesse, the weapon is truly designed to be wielded with both hands by its bearer, yet Sakaala's great scale and greater strength allows her to wield it with deadly ease in a single pawed hand. Unnervingly, so much as drawing the blade - let alone swinging it - sets it to ring faintly in a short lived but soft harmonic hum, but more than anything the bite of the sword itself leaves such keen blows that they are almost unsettling to look upon. Personality and Alignment: Neutral Good The benevolent matriarch, her inherently motherly animal nature follows her strongly with the incredible violence, that both magical and mundane, which she is capable of should she or those she considers her own be threatened. Kindly even toward those wary of her, her wrath is not easily provoked, but no threats made against her or those she views as companions are considered just idle. Perhaps unconsciously she tends to the wounded, acquires fresh provisions, and stays awake during watches all to ensure the continued survival of her adoptive company. Aging as she is, she has embraced the role of a vizier and sage, providing great insight and wisdom to those who inquire upon her. No friend of evil and abiding by her own sense of morality, she is best described as an intellectual and spiritual benefactor. Skills/Abilities: Lore Expertise Having lived such a varied and long life has graced Sakaala with many skills, the most notable is her vast knowledge upon matters ranging from historical events to distant locales, from to forces of nature to arcane mysteries. Self taught, her incredible recollection is imperfect and incomplete, but more often than not her acquired lore is relevant. She specializes in the intellectual categories of arcana, history, nature and locales with little greater knowledge on other matters. Martial Adept There are those who achieve martial proficiency through strength of arms alone and then there are those who acquire combat superiority by raw skill. Sakaala's inhuman strength and agility lend well to life lived by the sword, but it is her intuition, intelligence and force of personality that truly make her a deadly foe as she not only understands the principals of conflict, but actively anticipates them with preternatural skill. This so called "blade-magic" is a blend of martial arts, mysticism, and swordplay - at times engaging in impossible feats martial through magic and at others achieved by intense discipline and practice alone. Sakaala makes up for her disabilities by simply being more skillful and magically inclined than most her foes. Bolstering Presence While Sakaala is present, her mere warrior nature supernaturally inspires mental resolve and great courage in the face of fear among herself and allies. Effects that attack the mind are weakened, and attempts to intimidate or cause fear are dampened heavily as the body, emotion, mind, and spirit are made hardened against such effects. Perfect Mind Honed by intense exposure to offensive magic, Sakaala's force of personality provides her immense leverage against mind-affecting effects. The bane of charms, enchantments and illusions, she often rapidly comes to her senses, especially in the heat of battle or when her companions are threatened. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Steel Wind This maneuver involves a sudden turn of the blade that lands an otherwise singular blow against one target to also connect with another. A difficult attack to employ in the hands of the untrained, its uncanny speed and incredible finesse work are further augmented by Sakaala's ambidexterity, making her a deadly foe against numbers of enemies, especially the lightly armored. This attack is effectively a single attack against multiple targets. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Wall of Blades The agility Sakaala can display for brief periods of time even without her magic is unsettling. With lightning speed, Sakaala can counter a single melee or ranged attack, blocking or deflecting the worst of the blow with her own weapon, even in the worst of scenarios with precognition-like intuition. When expended, this ability takes a few moments to recover. Seasoned Ranger A born predator, Sakaala was one of many huntresses of her people, no less acting as a wildlands warrior in times of danger when threatened. Having survived alone from these skills for years, she is an able huntress and would be considered expert in the wilderness, capable of even eluding enemies and striking unexpectedly in natural environments. Of her practical skills, she is a trained gatherer of flora and fauna thus able to provide for herself and others in the ways of naturally provided rations, traditional medicine, pure water and various feats of outdoorsmanship. She is difficult to track when being followed and hardly inhibited by natural terrain. Magic: Channel Spell The ability to cast magical spells and effects is no small wonder even in a world where magic is possibility, but the power to do so while accompanying martial maneuvers is another great feat altogether. Able to channel some of her spells through her natural and weapon attacks, she unleashes devastating blows that inflict a variety of other effects on the victims of the attack. Working in conjunction with her supernatural martial arts, she can perform these abilities often in unexpected ways such as casting a single spell and striking multiple foes with its effects at once. She is not only limited to a small selection of spells to channel a day, but cannot do so extensively without becoming exhausted mentally. Bladeweave A swing of the sword moves with awesome magical grace and almost rhythmic perfection while giving off glints of faint light. Any creature unfortunate enough to be struck might find itself briefly dazed for a moment of hesitation by the fascinating magical swordsmanship exhibited. Creatures that have already been dazed are just as likely to be dazed again, but those resistant to illusions are not likely to be so awed. Combustion A corona of roiling heated air sheathes the blade, leaving waves of intense heat in the wake. A creature or object struck by the weapon discharges the spell, causing the target to instantly ignite in a personal inferno and setting them intensely ablaze for a moment before the magical flames vanish. If hasty or fortunate, a creature can extinguish the lingering non-magical flames left behind - if not careful, they continue to burn with mundane fire until its fuel is exhausted or its air is cut off. Enfeeblement An ominous dark green glimmer envelops the weapon's blade and is discharged upon successful strike, magically debilitating the muscular strength of the victim. Each instance of crippled physical might is additive, and creatures depleted of their strength are temporarily paralyzed and rendered helpless. Their lost strength returns minutes later after the last blow endured. Fatiguing A faint dullness and aura of immaterial grey shrouds the weapon's blade and is discharged upon a successful blow. The so affected creature is overcome by fatigue, slowing its physical strength and reflexes greatly, but most notably leaving it tired and unable to run. The weight of their debilitation is brief, lasting only a few prolonged moments and once the effects wear off, they are no worse for wear because of it. Shocking A scatter of sparks and silent cyan-white lightning shudder about the sword's length, pulling it more accurately toward metal targets. Upon striking, the magical effect discharges with a dull localized clap of thunder and the target is struck by a mighty burst of lightning from the weapon, jarring them. This channeled effect is much more likely to land upon metal targets than those not bearing much metal. True Strike A bearer of a weapon to be imbued takes a brief moment to gain precognative insight into their next attack, greatly increasing its likelihood to land, yet this strength comes at the cost of denying the caster action for a moment. Now enchanted for its next blow, it ignores both magical and practical forms of concealment and seems to find the weakest point in the target's defenses. Once it strikes, the benefit ends and the aura of perfect clarity is gone. Wraithstrike A phantasmal air surrounds the now shimmering blade which is sheathed in ghostly wisps. For a brief moment, it strikes with deathly accuracy, penetrating conventional defenses such as armor or even benefits such as magical deflectiveness, needing only to merely touch the victim to deal its damage in full as though it were a spirit. Upon striking, the effect ends and the weapon returns to its normal qualities. Natural Sorceress As a creature born of magic, the very essence of latent power lies within Sakaala and those that were like her, infused with every ounce of their person. It is from this obscure pool that she draws upon, evoking sorcerous power on whim, but having deeply specialized in doing so; her repertoire of magical spells not vast or complex, but instead practical and martial. She blends the martial arts and swordplay with her magic instead of casting traditional spells by and far, although she can indeed manifest some purely magic effects. Traditionally, few monstrous humanoids are able mages - instead relying upon their natural superiority to combat magical and mundane threats through sheer force and intuition. Sakaala, in spite of these things and the taboos of her now lost society, has taken up arcane power to compensate for her debilitation and growing age. It is known that many mortals are driven mad by arcane power with time, but many monsters seem no worse for wear. As with all sorcerers, Sakaala's magic depletes throughout the day when she expends it. Recovering her inherent energy when she rests for a prolonged time, she relies upon measured application of mystic force so not to expend all of her magic in a short time although she is capable of doing so. Least (0th) Arcane Mark, Amanuensis, Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation, Read Magic, Touch of Fatigue Lesser (1st) Nerveskitter, Shocking Grasp, Truestrike, Ray of Enfeeblement Common (2nd) Combust, Bladeweave, Wraithstrike Great (3rd) Haste, Dispel Magic Arcane Mark A visible or invisible permanent mark of magical enchantment is placed upon the target without causing harm. If placed upon a creature, it fades with time over a month. When invisible, it requires a creature that can see invisibility to notice the mark. Otherwise only an effect that detects magic renders the mark visible, but one must be able to read magic as well to understand its meaning, if it even has one. Amanuensis An invisible force, when provided with text to read and parchment, begins transcribing the mundane words of another work. The force continues to generate the copied text word for word on to the initially blank parchment, skipping any illustrations and magical enchantments it encounters in its work, leaving their locations empty. While it does not translate the writings, should they be in a language not understood, it does continue to copy them until its duration ends or it pauses, awaiting more parchment. Detect Magic The viewer can visually detect magical effects within their line of sight, out to a short distance as glowing radiation. If they wish to concentrate they may separate different auras and determine their strength, and with further concentration attempt to determine the specific spell effect that is active. Powerful magical effects and creatures leave lingering auras, and appear more distinctly upon focus. Dispel Magic A powerful, brief burst of nullifying magic affects a creature or object, or dispels an area instantly of any temporary magical effects and interrupts ongoing ones or those being cast. The dispelling affect always targets the most powerful spells first, then attempts to remove the progressively weaker ones of its target. Against a creature casting a spell, this effect causes the spell to immediately fail to cast. Haste The caster and nearby allies blur with sudden, lightning fast alacrity, moving with intense speed and reflexes. Their attacks become so rapid they are a near blur of motion, and their movement causes them to shimmer with enchanted speed. Striking more accurately and evading more rapidly, this effect lasts only a few intense prolonged moments. Mage Hand An invisible force may manipulate objects through concentration as though it were an extension of its master. Although capable of only lifting light objects, it has the full functionality of a phantasmal hand free of a body, giving it great range of motion. A form of very limited magical psychokinesis, its range is short and it disperses to nothing if it travels far. Message A distant conversation may be held at a whispered tone, sent to a small number of selected creatures. Although each may reply individually, the visibly spoken words are sent to all affected individuals. It bypasses line of sight, limited out to several hundred feet, but is stopped by magical silence, dense metal or stone, or several feet of earth or wood. The words spoken are identical to what is being said and do not transcend language barriers. Nerveskitter An icy rush races through the blood of the affected individual, spurring them to act or react to danger well before they regularly would be capable. Immediate in effect and its casting, it gives the the creature great precognition for but a moment, allowing them to act with greater initiative. Although limited in range out to a short distance, it heightens the senses and reactions greatly for a crucial few seconds. Prestidigitation This effect can generate a wide array of more minor effects, of which are humble yet practical uses of magic. They range from cleaning to dirtying an object, creating minor levitation in small objects, chill or warm slightly, ignite or extinguish mundane flames, create small fragile objects or play ethereal musical notes, and so forth. While it cannot duplicate stronger spells, it perhaps can evoke the illusion of greater magic at play. Read Magic Enabling a reader to explicitly read magically concealed text, it can be used to translate runes, scrolls, symbols and other forms of enchanted text. It does not invoke any latent magical effect of the writing, but it allows the reader to no longer require the ability to read that enchanted text through magic, giving them inherent understanding of it. Backstory: Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary By "The Mage", quoted from "Anecdotes of a Reluctant Mercenary", Chapter VI "On the Subject of Sakaala" "Hunter, warrior, arcanist - over the span of a lifetime one has many varied roles that they might confront, but few ever live them so fully as to explore them in their entirety. She however, has. Undeniably left with the signs of terrible wounds past, most notably the blindness of her right eye and blatant lameness of the right arm, she has endured trials no one, be them man or beast, should be forced to confront alone. Born an exceptional huntress but appointed a warrior, she served loyally on behalf of her scarce peoples, keeping grim threats beyond, those we do not suffer, at bay. Although she, as with select others among her lot, served admirably on behalf man, not all men were so approving. It was in this she was forced to fight to the last beside those who had become her sisters on an ever losing front, but for all of her skill even she too was felled. She too has felt the bite of defeat... all the more memorable than that of victory. She does not speak to us about what became of her children, but when you look upon her eyes you see that same hurt of someone with nothing left to her in this world. It is for these reasons she turned to things most men believe left better unknown - the arcane. For one reason or another, perhaps because she is not of mortal stock, she has acquired the capacity to wield this mystic thing as any other weapon. She has made her body, and even her blade, its conduit. It is all almost a direct extension of herself, the way in which she flows like graceful death both natural and magical; the manner in which she ably adapts her styles, be them as subtle as her favored hand to the placement of her feet, even in her age. I wonder if she is truly satisfied now, watching over us like our matriarch - some relic of a dead people - blessing us with kindness we cannot possibly repay. After all, what could we offer her? We are but mere men; arrogant, brash, foolish and young. What really drives her to aid us in the heat of conflict or tend to our wounds thereafter? A motherhood she still lives vicariously? Whatever the reason, she has more than earned my faith in her; my admiration for her."

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