Chaldean Chronicles: Cadence of the Lostgrail

So it is. The entrance. @Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel

"Here it is, the Entrance to this place... Man its been so long since I've actually came here I almost forgot where it was." He would step outside and take a look at the sky, taking that this would probably be the last time he would see it while alive so he was gonna take it all in while he can. If he could that is, if something was obscuring his vision then guess he wouldn't be seeing the sky.

The sky was quite clear. It was a beautiful day... Though certainly a chilly one.

"Aha. You remind me of myself honestly... I also once spent far too much time engaging with my work, you know? Before we start... Do you mind if I ask you something? Counter Guardian to a soon-to-be Counter Guardian."

8:25 PM

The man fixed up his hat, showing his face properly.

"I do? Well you don't see that bad so I'll take that as a compliment. I don't mind go ahead."

"What is your reason for accepting this task?"

"My reason? Well, it's simple I wanted us to win, I didn't want the people in there to die. They're all people that I want to see smile, be themselves, and live their lives to the fullest. I couldn't turn down the chance to make sure they got the tomorrow they were fighting for. Yeah, we lost some people but if we didn't make this choice of accepting the task then the casualties might have been worse or even possibly ended up with humanity's defeat. So I don't mind sacrificing myself so they could get to see this sight again. The tomorrow we were all hoping to see... It's pretty beautiful ain't it?"

"Hah. That it is. That much we can both agree on. I suppose it is only polite to introduce oneself. My name is Ryoma, how about you stranger?" With that a shade lingered behind the man. "I suppose it is only fair that I reveal to you my own reason for becoming a Heroic Spirit... You see- I simply wished to be able to spend more time with the one I love. It's as simple as that. Doing some good in the process is just the icing on the cake in my eyes." With that, a head poked out from behind him.

". . ." A shade slithered forward, clinging to the man.

"Haha. As you can see, speak of the devil..."

"Nagato, Nagato Magistus but just Nagato is fine." He watched the shade lingering behind the man slither forward now getting a good look at them. "That's nice." He smiled, to choose this path to spend more time with the one he loves was something that he respected. He was happy for them. It made him realize there were still things he had yet... That he wouldn't get to do. "So... What's all this like? Since you are my senior at this stuff and all."

". . . It can be hard work. It changes people. As you probably have seen with Archer- not everyone can take it. Alaya prioritizes survival of humanity as a collective rather than individual unit, which does unfortunately mean that often times- the methods we have to use are less then stellar." He remarked, closing his eyes for just a moment.

The woman moved closer, gently nosing the man's cheek and finally resting her chin on his shoulder.

The man smiled softly at the woman's touch before continuing. "However. It is not so bad once you remember what you're doing it for. Difficult decisions have to always be made, though I'm not necessarily one for appreciating the at times cold calculated approach of 'greater good'... It is hard to deny it's results in the end. So long as you keep an anchor to keep you going, something to have your hopes in and cling onto during the worse times... It can be quite rewarding."

"That's gonna suck but I think I'll be able to manage... Somehow." He just needed to keep remembering why he accepted this path. The reason he was fighting so to speak, yeah... He would be fine. He would be able to make it through this, as long as he remembered them, remembered Chaldea, he would overcome this long and unending task. "Thanks, having been told all this will help me more than you know. I wish the others could have gotten told this."

"Of course. If nothing else, I hope you remember that going forward. Now..." With that the man took out his Katana and revolver, eyeing Nagato carefully.

10:57 PM

"Let's get this over with, Archer informed me that he eliminated the other one. Unfortunately unless you want to make this fight an unfair one, we don't have too much left."

10:58 PM

"So. Let's get on with it, shall we?"

Current initiative: 20 (round 5)
================================
# 20: Ryoma <Healthy> 
  16: Oryou <Injured> 
  16: Nagato <211/400 HP> (AC 24, Rage [7 rounds])

(edited)

Avrae pinned a message to this channel. 2022-07-30 10:58 PM

Everyone roll for initiative! If you have a character set up with SheetManager: !init join If it's a 5e monster: !init madd <monster name> Otherwise: !init add <modifier> <name>

10:58 PM

RY1 was added to combat with initiative 1d20 (12) + 8 = 20.

10:58 PM

RY1 removed from combat.

10:59 PM

Ryoma was added to combat with initiative 20.

10:59 PM

Oryou was added to combat with initiative 1d20 (10) + 6 = 16.

"If he gets here before we're done then he can join in! Once I get going I start getting harder to keep down!" Drawing his blades he prepared for combat.

Nagato makes an Initiative check!

2d20kh1 (9, 12) + 4 = 16

11:02 PM

Initiative 20 (round 1): Ryoma (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Ryoma <Healthy>

Ryoma points his Revolver at Nagato! Pulling the trigger a few times and unloading the entire magazine!

Ryoma attacks with a Revolver Shot!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 1d20 (16) + 18 = 34 Damage: 2d4 (1, 2) + 8 [piercing] = 11 Attack 2 To Hit: 1d20 (3) + 18 = 21 Miss! Attack 3 To Hit: 1d20 (5) + 18 = 23 Miss! Attack 4 To Hit: 1d20 (3) + 18 = 21 Miss! Attack 5 To Hit: 1d20 (15) + 18 = 33 Damage: 2d4 (4, 1) + 8 [piercing] = 13 Attack 6 To Hit: 1d20 (14) + 18 = 32 Damage: 2d4 (3, 2) + 8 [piercing] = 13 Total Damage: 37

Effect

Ranged Weapon Attack: +18 to hit, range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d4 + 8) piercing damage.

He then dashes away to put some distance between you two

11:03 PM

Distance between you and Ryoma 120 ft

Initiative 16 (round 1): Oryou (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Oryou <Healthy>

Meanwhile Oryou moves forward to assault!

11:03 PM

She uses reckless

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (17, 20) + 21 = 41 Damage (CRIT!): 2d10 (10, 7) + 11 [bludgeoning] = 28 Attack 2 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (11, 1) + 21 = 32 Damage: 1d10 (1) + 11 [bludgeoning] = 12 Attack 3 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (1, 19) + 21 = 40 Damage: 1d10 (9) + 11 [bludgeoning] = 20 Attack 4 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (6, 19) + 21 = 40 Damage: 1d10 (4) + 11 [bludgeoning] = 15 Attack 5 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (17, 10) + 21 = 38 Damage: 1d10 (7) + 11 [bludgeoning] = 18 Attack 6 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (17, 15) + 21 = 38 Damage: 1d10 (1) + 11 [bludgeoning] = 12 Total Damage: 105

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

11:04 PM

Initiative 16 (round 1): Nagato (@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel)

Nagato <258/400 HP> (AC 24) 
> Resistances: necrotic, cold, radiant
> Immunities: poison, disease, fire

11:05 PM

Mr.Thiccums||Naga/Fie/Kama/Miyu

Nagato Rages!

You have advantage on Strength checks and Strength saving throws, and are unable to cast or concentrate on spells. Your rage ends early if you are knocked unconscious or if your turn ends and you haven't attacked a hostile creature since your last turn or taken damage since then, or as a bonus action on your turn.

Nagato

Rage [10 rounds] (Save Advantage: Strength; Damage Bonus: 2; Resistance: bludgeoning, piercing, slashing; Check Advantage: Strength)

Rages (-1)

◉◉◉◉◉〇

BA rage

Since she used Reckless Nagato will attack at Adv unless something prevents him from doing so.

Go for it

11:07 PM

Your first attack auto-misses though

Interesting ok

Ryoma tips his hat at you for that one

Target or no?

Target

Ok

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: Automatic miss! Miss!

First attack

11:09 PM

Second attack

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 2d20kh1 (20, 10) + 16 = 36 Damage (CRIT!): 2d8 (7, 4) + 2d6 (3, 5) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 2d6 (6, 5) [poison] + 2d6 (3, 5) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 52

Nice nice, glad I decided to not use the Vorpal as the main weapon this fight

Nagato

Stun

◉◉〇 (-1)

Description

Additionally, upon being hit, the target has to make a DC 17 Constitution check or become Stunned until the end of their next turn. Can only be done 3 times per Short Rest.

11:10 PM

An Oryou makes a Constitution Save!

1d20 (4) + 18 = 22

It's a con check

Ah

Yeah

An Oryou makes a Constitution check!

1d20 (9) + 10 = 19

There

Dang

11:13 PM

Alright number 3

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (15) + 16 = 31 Damage: 1d8 (4) + 1d6 (1) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (4) [poison] + 1d6 (5) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 28

She do be hurting

Nagato

Stun

◉〇〇 (-1)

Description

Additionally, upon being hit, the target has to make a DC 17 Constitution check or become Stunned until the end of their next turn. Can only be done 3 times per Short Rest.

11:14 PM

An Oryou makes a Constitution check!

1d20 (4) + 10 = 14

She uses luck.

An Oryou makes a Constitution check!

1d20 (6) + 10 = 16

She lucks again

An Oryou makes a Constitution check!

1d20 (10) + 10 = 20

There

Alright

11:15 PM

4th attack

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (7) + 16 = 23 Damage: 1d8 (2) + 1d6 (1) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (4) [poison] + 1d6 (5) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 26

Last one why not

Nagato

Stun

〇〇〇 (-1)

Description

Additionally, upon being hit, the target has to make a DC 17 Constitution check or become Stunned until the end of their next turn. Can only be done 3 times per Short Rest.

11:17 PM

An Oryou makes a Constitution check!

1d20 (8) + 10 = 18

Passes

Nice

11:18 PM

~~Half of ryoma's kit isn't disabled~~

Off hand with Duel wielding

Nagato attacks with a Heaven's claw!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (2) + 19 = 21 Damage: 1d8 (1) + 1d6 (5) + 10 + 2 + 2 [magical slashing] = 20

That's the end

Initiative 20 (round 2): Ryoma (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Ryoma <Healthy>

11:21 PM

Ryoma attacks with a Revolver Shot!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 1d20 (14) + 18 = 32 Damage: (2d4 (4, 4) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 8 Attack 2 To Hit: 1d20 (9) + 18 = 27 Damage: (2d4 (2, 3) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 6 Attack 3 To Hit: 1d20 (2) + 18 = 20 Miss! Attack 4 To Hit: 1d20 (12) + 18 = 30 Damage: (2d4 (1, 4) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 6 Attack 5 To Hit: 1d20 (6) + 18 = 24 Damage: (2d4 (1, 4) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 6 Attack 6 To Hit: 1d20 (12) + 18 = 30 Damage: (2d4 (4, 4) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 8 Total Damage: 34

Effect

Ranged Weapon Attack: +18 to hit, range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d4 + 8) piercing damage.

@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel Additional

@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

Result: 4d6 (5, 6, 4, 6) Total: 21

21 force dmg

Nagato: <203/400 HP> (-21)

Alrighty

Initiative 16 (round 2): Oryou (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Oryou <Injured>

11:23 PM

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

To Hit: 1d20 (18) + 21 = 39 Damage: (1d10 (1) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 6

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

11:23 PM

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

To Hit: 1d20 (9) + 21 = 30 Damage (CRIT!): (2d10 (10, 2) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 11

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

Ryoma tips his hat again

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 1d20 (4) + 21 = 25 Damage: (1d10 (7) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 9 Attack 2 To Hit: 1d20 (4) + 21 = 25 Damage: (1d10 (2) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 6 Attack 3 To Hit: 1d20 (4) + 21 = 25 Damage: (1d10 (5) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 8 Attack 4 To Hit: 1d20 (1) + 21 = 22 Miss! Total Damage: 23

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

She makes an attack as a bonus action

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

To Hit: 1d20 (5) + 21 = 26 Damage: (1d10 (5) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 8

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

11:25 PM

Initiative 16 (round 2): Nagato (@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel)

Nagato <155/400 HP> (AC 24) 
> Resistances: necrotic, cold, radiant, bludgeoning, piercing, slashing
> Immunities: poison, disease, fire
* Rage [9 rounds] (Save Advantage: Strength; Damage Bonus: 2; Resistance: bludgeoning, piercing, slashing; Check Advantage: Strength) 
 - Advantage on Strength checks/saves
 - Cannot cast/concentrate on spells
 - Ends if knocked unconscious or if your turn ends and you haven't attacked a hostile creature or taken damage since your last turn

11:26 PM

Nagato makes a Charisma Save!

2d20kh1 (9, 19) + 16 = 35

Survivor A

Nagato: <166/400 HP> (+11)

11:27 PM

Nagato

Awakened Fire element B

〇 (-1)

Description

Rank B: As a bonus action, you magically wreathe yourself in swirling fire, as your eyes glow like hot coals. For 1 minute, you gain the following benefits: You shed bright light in a 30-foot radius and dim light for an additional 30 feet. Any creature of your choice takes fire damage equal to your Chosen modifier if it hits you with a melee attack from within 5 feet of you or if it touches you. Whenever you roll fire damage on your turn, the roll gains a bonus to equal to your Chosen modifier. Once you use this feature, you can't use it again until you finish a long rest.

That's the BA

11:28 PM

Now for the attacks

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (20) + 16 = 36 Damage (CRIT!): 2d8 (7, 3) + 2d6 (1, 5) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 2d6 (2, 5) [poison] + 2d6 (1, 1) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 39

11:28 PM

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (8) + 16 = 24 Damage: 1d8 (7) + 1d6 (6) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (6) [poison] + 1d6 (3) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 36

Wait

11:28 PM

First one misses again right?

Nope!

Alright

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (5) + 16 = 21 Damage: 1d8 (5) + 1d6 (2) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (3) [poison] + 1d6 (3) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 27

11:29 PM

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (14) + 16 = 30 Damage: 1d8 (8) + 1d6 (5) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (2) [poison] + 1d6 (4) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 33

Off hand

Nagato attacks with a Heaven's claw!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (11) + 19 = 30 Damage: 1d8 (6) + 1d6 (1) + 10 + 2 + 2 [magical slashing] = 21

Eot

Initiative 20 (round 3): Ryoma (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Ryoma <Healthy>

Ryoma continues pestering you with bullets.

11:29 PM

However!

11:30 PM

This time he grants himself advantage

Ryoma attacks with a Revolver Shot!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (16, 5) + 18 = 34 Damage: (2d4 (4, 1) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 6 Attack 2 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (16, 20) + 18 = 38 Damage (CRIT!): (4d4 (2, 3, 3, 3) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 9 Attack 3 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (1, 16) + 18 = 34 Damage: (2d4 (4, 2) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 7 Attack 4 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (19, 4) + 18 = 37 Damage: (2d4 (1, 4) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 6 Attack 5 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (2, 2) + 18 = 20 Miss! Attack 6 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (2, 18) + 18 = 36 Damage: (2d4 (2, 1) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 5 Total Damage: 33

Effect

Ranged Weapon Attack: +18 to hit, range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d4 + 8) piercing damage.

Not that it did much

Initiative 16 (round 3): Oryou (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Oryou <Injured>

Oryou enrages.

11:30 PM

As you pull your blade away

11:30 PM

You notice a scale beneath her scarf.

11:30 PM

Your blade hit it.

Oryou: <Healthy>

She uses reckless

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (14, 12) + 21 + 10 = 45 Damage: (1d10 (9) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 10 Attack 2 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (15, 6) + 21 + 10 = 46 Damage: (1d10 (3) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 7 Attack 3 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (4, 2) + 21 + 10 = 35 Damage: (1d10 (9) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 10 Attack 4 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (2, 2) + 21 + 10 = 33 Damage: (1d10 (10) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 10 Attack 5 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (7, 19) + 21 + 10 = 50 Damage: (1d10 (7) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 9 Attack 6 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (10, 12) + 21 + 10 = 43 Damage: (1d10 (10) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 10 Total Damage: 56

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

Rager reaction

That was the wrong ba

11:31 PM

Heal up that dmg

Ok

Nagato: <133/400 HP> (+56)

11:32 PM

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

To Hit: 2d20kh1 (13, 1) + 21 = 34 Damage: (1d10 (5) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 8

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

ffs

Nagato: <133/400 HP> (+8)

11:32 PM

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (14, 6) + 21 = 35 Damage: (1d10 (1) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 11 Attack 2 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (17, 11) + 21 = 38 Damage: (1d10 (4) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 12 Attack 3 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (3, 14) + 21 = 35 Damage: (1d10 (2) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 11 Attack 4 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (20, 19) + 21 = 41 Damage (CRIT!): (2d10 (6, 7) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 17 Attack 5 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (6, 15) + 21 = 36 Damage: (1d10 (8) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 14 Attack 6 To Hit: 2d20kh1 (11, 9) + 21 = 32 Damage: (1d10 (7) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 14 Total Damage: 79

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

There we go

11:32 PM

Alright.

11:32 PM

Go for your reaction

Alright reaction rager attack

11:33 PM

Also 6 fire damage per hit while 5ft of Nagato

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (15) + 16 = 31 Damage: 1d8 (2) + 1d6 (2) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (4) [poison] + 1d6 (6) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 28

11:34 PM

Oryou: <Injured>

11:34 PM

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

To Hit: 2d20kh1 (15, 4) + 21 = 36 Damage: (1d10 (5) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 13

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

Ba attack

11:34 PM

eot

Initiative 16 (round 3): Nagato (@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel)

Nagato <41/400 HP> (AC 24) 
> Resistances: necrotic, cold, radiant, bludgeoning, piercing, slashing
> Immunities: poison, disease, fire
* Rage [8 rounds] (Save Advantage: Strength; Damage Bonus: 2; Resistance: bludgeoning, piercing, slashing; Check Advantage: Strength) 
 - Advantage on Strength checks/saves
 - Cannot cast/concentrate on spells
 - Ends if knocked unconscious or if your turn ends and you haven't attacked a hostile creature or taken damage since your last turn

11:34 PM

Nagato makes a Charisma Save!

2d20kh1 (1, 18) + 16 = 34

Nice

Nagato: <52/400 HP> (+11)

Survivor A

11:35 PM

BA

11:35 PM

Quicken heal

Nagato

Ki

◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉◉〇 (-1)

11:36 PM

@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel

Result: 1d10 (10) + 20 Total: 30

11:36 PM

Nagato: <82/400 HP> (+30)

kk!

And Attacking again!

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (19) + 16 = 35 Damage (CRIT!): 2d8 (5, 5) + 2d6 (5, 3) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 2d6 (4, 3) [poison] + 2d6 (3, 3) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 45

11:37 PM

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (13) + 16 = 29 Damage: 1d8 (6) + 1d6 (6) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (1) [poison] + 1d6 (1) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 28

11:37 PM

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (3) + 16 = 19 Damage: 1d8 (7) + 1d6 (3) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (4) [poison] + 1d6 (4) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 32

11:37 PM

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (14) + 16 = 30 Damage: 1d8 (7) + 1d6 (1) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (1) [poison] + 1d6 (5) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 28

Off hand

Nagato attacks with a Heaven's claw!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (10) + 19 = 29 Damage: 1d8 (3) + 1d6 (2) + 10 + 2 + 2 [magical slashing] = 19

Then eot

Initiative 20 (round 4): Ryoma (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Ryoma <Healthy>

11:38 PM

Ryoma attacks with a Revolver Shot!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 1d20 (20) + 18 = 38 Damage (CRIT!): (4d4 (1, 1, 1, 4) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 7 Attack 2 To Hit: 1d20 (17) + 18 = 35 Damage: (2d4 (4, 2) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 7 Attack 3 To Hit: 1d20 (9) + 18 = 27 Damage: (2d4 (1, 3) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 6 Attack 4 To Hit: 1d20 (18) + 18 = 36 Damage: (2d4 (2, 3) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 6 Attack 5 To Hit: 1d20 (8) + 18 = 26 Damage: (2d4 (1, 4) + 8 [piercing]) / 2 = 6 Attack 6 To Hit: 1d20 (2) + 18 = 20 Miss! Total Damage: 32

Effect

Ranged Weapon Attack: +18 to hit, range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d4 + 8) piercing damage.

11:38 PM

@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

Result: 8d6 (6, 4, 3, 1, 1, 6, 4, 6) Total: 31

@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel 31 force

Nagato: <19/400 HP> (-31)

11:38 PM

Initiative 16 (round 4): Oryou (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Oryou <Injured>

11:39 PM

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

Attack 1 To Hit: 1d20 (8) + 21 = 29 Damage: (1d10 (7) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 14 Attack 2 To Hit: 1d20 (12) + 21 = 33 Damage: (1d10 (10) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 15 Attack 3 To Hit: 1d20 (18) + 21 = 39 Damage: (1d10 (3) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 12 Attack 4 To Hit: 1d20 (14) + 21 = 35 Damage: (1d10 (5) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 13 Attack 5 To Hit: 1d20 (14) + 21 = 35 Damage: (1d10 (9) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 15 Attack 6 To Hit: 1d20 (6) + 21 = 27 Damage: (1d10 (4) + 11 + 10 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 12 Total Damage: 81

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

That's 5

11:39 PM

Saves to make

Yep

Let's go

Nagato makes a Constitution Save!

1d20 (13) + 16 = 29

Pass

11:39 PM

DC 15

Nagato makes a Constitution Save!

1d20 (8) + 16 = 24

DC 20

Nagato makes a Constitution Save!

1d20 (11) + 16 = 27

Pass DC 25

Nagato makes a Constitution Save!

1d20 (1) + 16 = 17

Luck

Nagato

Luck

〇〇〇〇〇〇 (+0) (1 overflow)

Oops

11:40 PM

Used it all in the fight with Vee

11:40 PM

Nvm

11:40 PM

Body con!

Nagato

Body Con B

〇 (-1)

Description

Rank B: Your mastery of body conditioning grants you proficiency in all saving throws. Additionally, whenever you make a saving throw and fail, you can reroll it once and take the second result. You can only do this once per Long Rest.

11:40 PM

Nagato makes a Constitution Save!

1d20 (18) + 16 = 34

Pass

11:41 PM

DC 30

Nagato makes a Constitution Save!

1d20 (18) + 16 = 34

Pass

ba attack

Oryou attacks with an Unarmed Strike!

Nagato

To Hit: 1d20 (18) + 21 = 39 Damage: (1d10 (10) + 11 [bludgeoning]) / 2 = 10

Effect

Melee Weapon Attack: +21 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16 (1d10 + 11) bludgeoning damage.

11:41 PM

Nagato makes a Constitution Save!

1d20 (19) + 16 = 35

madlad

He's still standing!

Yup!

Initiative 16 (round 4): Nagato (@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel)

Nagato <0/400 HP> (AC 24) 
> Resistances: necrotic, cold, radiant, bludgeoning, piercing, slashing
> Immunities: poison, disease, fire
* Rage [7 rounds] (Save Advantage: Strength; Damage Bonus: 2; Resistance: bludgeoning, piercing, slashing; Check Advantage: Strength) 
 - Advantage on Strength checks/saves
 - Cannot cast/concentrate on spells
 - Ends if knocked unconscious or if your turn ends and you haven't attacked a hostile creature or taken damage since your last turn

11:42 PM

Nagato makes a Charisma Save!

2d20kh1 (20, 19) + 16 = 36

11:42 PM

Nagato: <11/400 HP> (+11)

11:43 PM

@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel

prolong or just keep going: 1d2 (1) Total: 1

Prolong it is

~~wait aren’t they the same thing~~

No I mean not do what I'm about to do

Nagato

Blessed Body A

〇 (-1)

Description

Rank A: You gain the ability to overcome grievous injuries. As a bonus action when you have fewer than half of your hit points remaining, you can regain a number of hit points equal to half your hit point maximum. Once you use this feature, you can't use it again until you finish a Long Rest.

11:44 PM

Nagato: <211/400 HP> (+200)

"Hah! You're impressive kid. Standing up to a Heroic Spirit like this, no wonder you're trusted by Alaya."

Now we'll attack yet again

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (2) + 16 = 18 Miss!

11:45 PM

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (14) + 16 = 30 Damage: 1d8 (3) + 1d6 (2) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (4) [poison] + 1d6 (4) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 27

11:45 PM

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (4) + 16 = 20 Damage: 1d8 (3) + 1d6 (2) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (4) [poison] + 1d6 (5) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 28

11:45 PM

Nagato attacks with a Nidhogg's Fang!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (16) + 16 = 32 Damage: 1d8 (7) + 1d6 (4) + 10 + 2 [magical slashing] + 1d6 (3) [poison] + 1d6 (2) [acid] + 2 [magical slashing] = 30

Off hand

Nagato attacks with a Heaven's claw!

Oryou

To Hit: 1d20 (17) + 19 = 36 Damage (CRIT!): 2d8 (6, 1) + 2d6 (5, 1) + 10 + 2 + 2 [magical slashing] = 27

That's the end of my turn!

Initiative 20 (round 5): Ryoma (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) Ryoma <Healthy>

"Heh, thanks for the compliment but I'm still just getting started!"

"You know what..." The man jumped back just a little further, pulling his hat down and smiling. "You remind me of someone I used to know. Alright then, let's do it. Let's see if you're still standing after this."

11:49 PM

". . . !" A soft nod of affirmation came from the woman as she quickly pulled back. Then... She vanished for just a moment into the ground.

"Orochi of the Earth. Sealed by Amasakahoko..."

11:51 PM

"I alone know the truth of my deeds."

11:52 PM

The sky darkens. A yellow haze begins to rise...

11:52 PM

Suddenly, the ground beneath them trembles with fury.

11:53 PM

As a beast makes it's appearance. Roaring with a ferocious roar before the lone man stood up on it's back.

He grinned at the sight before him, that was awesome! While he questioned what just happened he knew one thing... This was gonna hurt. "Alright then! Let's see what you two got!" He stood there. Nagato choose to fail the save if there is one.

"Let's go then. Soaring trough the sky once again. Do your best, Nagato." With that, the pair soared into the air before descending down upon the man.

@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

Result: 50d6 (5, 5, 6, 1, 4, 1, 3, 4, 3, 5, 5, 6, 2, 6, 2, 2, 4, 4, 2, 6, 2, 6, 3, 1, 5, 2, 5, 4, 6, 1, 6, 2, 5, 5, 4, 4, 2, 4, 3, 2, 5, 4, 2, 1, 2, 2, 5, 1, 6, 2) Total: 178

11:56 PM

@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

Result: 20d6 (5, 6, 6, 1, 6, 6, 2, 4, 3, 3, 1, 1, 1, 5, 2, 4, 5, 1, 3, 6) Total: 71

Despite the odds- Nagato managed to survive the first damage of the impact- feeling the weight of the great beast slam against his body. Yet, just as he got picked up into the air by the great Dragon, Ryoma leapt in with his Katana. Slicing away at him while he was trapped by Oryou's grasp.

12:02 AM

After a moment... Finally the Noble Phantasm fades and the drake drops the man- letting him freefall and settling the two of them down on the ground.

12:03 AM

Yet... He's still alive.

". . . Alright. I think our work is done here, don't you?"

He pulled himself up off the ground where he was dropped, he was right. That hurt alright, it was a Noble phantasm after all, and yet he still clung on to life. Why did he do so when the result was going to be the same? He was gonna die, this battle was all just so he could enjoy one last fight before he went. "Damn that was cool, I didn't know you two could do that..." He was on his last leg the next strike he wouldn't be able to withstand. "Thanks... It was fun going up against you two. What an interesting combination... I wonder if I could get something like that one day..." He simply refused to go down without fighting, their combination attacks and event their noble phantasm he withstood, even if only just barely with the last one. He was proud at how far he came, he should be, after all, who can say they took all that to the face and survived?

". . . Oh wow. I really must commend you to have survived that. I'd be lying if I said I was holding back. I doubt Oryou was either." He noted.

By this point the woman seemed a little bored, she shifted from one leg to the other, floating in the air and leaning back. Giving a peace sign to Nagato, she merely let Ryoma do the talking.

With a sigh, the man put down his revolver, slipping it away into it's sheath before taking his Katana in his right hand, gripping it tightly as he spoke. "It was quite fun. Who knows? Maybe we will see eachother again sometime in the future. There is plenty of time for that." With that, he moved forward... His eyes fixating on Nagato for a few long moments before... "It has been an honour."

12:22 AM

With that, he thrust his blade into Nagato's chest.

"Maybe..." He stood there as the blade went through his chest. This was it, he could feel himself slipping. There would be no getting up this time, no getting saved or healed. This was his end. His death. It was getting cold or was that just the wind? He didn't know at this point, his eyes were losing the light they had. All of the people he's met and talked to, all the bonds he had formed the connections he had all we're in front of him at this moment... His time of dying. He passed on with a single thought about the people he saw. 'I don't want to say goodbye...' In the end he realized that even if he made this choice without regret, he still wanted to stay even if for just a little while longer. It was impossible to not wish to stay where you're the happiest. Nagato's body went limp. Nagato Magistus was dead.

". . ." Quietly, the man pulled his blade away. Tugging his hat a little he leaned down to close the man's eyes. Moving to grasp the man, he lifted him off the floor and carried him to the entrance of Chaldea. He paused for just a moment, looking down at the man before smiling. His body was vanishing away- fading into nothingness as he leaned down and smiled at him. "Good luck." With that, The Counter Guardian faded.

"Oh Yorrick, knew ye too little," a voice came from the freezing wastes as a single figure strode through the snow, pulling his Chaldean winter coat further up. He was dragging a crate behind him on a snow sled. It was heavy but nothing a bit of cardio to start the day with. He had been watching and waiting, taking into account every bit of Chaldea's operation and confidential information before storing it on data slates or transmitting it, disguised with Chaldea's other transmissions with the outside world. His mission in a way was almost to a close. Hard. He found the body of the body half submerged in the snow. Red clothes still above ground with frozen white hair. Grunting he grabbed the corpse and began to inspect it, putting a pencil flashlight between his teeth as he searched the pockets.

@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel

(just asking what you may have)

"This is some dirty work..." Oliver was say outloud and through his mental link, "Then again that's why we have Field Agents. At least I'm not one of the Death Squads my family uses. Ever have to do the hard work yourself or prefer to use thralls?"

@Sky_ | [NPC] | Sal [9] Walp [14]

"Menial work like this? I would rather delegate it." You can feel the typical arrogance she exudes from the link.

"Still, if you have nothing but yourself, then there's nothing else to do, right? You can't enjoy being prim and clean if you don't get your hands dirty once in a while~"

Dirty with what, you'd wonder. But that's how it always is with her.

"Hmmmm." he said as he continued to search. He already had a semblance of a plan. He'd bring a few belongings back, say he was on patrol (which would provide him an alibi for the cassette stunt), but he couldn't bring the entire body back. Taken by the snow and sadly he was unable to recall his last location. He stared at the refrigerated lead-lined box behind disguised as a canned food storage crate. "You wouldn't happen to be one of those servants that has access to their own world of sorts others normally can't reach?"

3:42 AM

@Sky_ | [NPC] | Sal [9] Walp [14]

there is an almost silent crinkle of snow as a line figure walks from the Chaldean base towards the site of the battle. Golden hair and eyes as he approached on the scene, almost no obvious weapons on him other than a book. Alex would look upon the scene and sigh as he approached. "So someone did find the body."

He heard the voice come from behind him. Oliver rested his right hand inside his coat, feeling the cold grip of steel underneath. "Move of observation position, Assassin," he quickly informed Vitch silently, "Be ready to back me up if this gets ugly." He always hated dealing with members of the church, they were so idiotic that it looped around to being stalwart to both bribes and basic reasoning. "Ah, Master Alex," he said casually, "Come to collect our fallen comrade too?"

@Sky_ | [NPC] | Sal [9] Walp [14] @StarryCleric

"Apologies, boss~ But my Reality Marble doesn't quite work as you'd expect it so. Let's... leave that discussion as to why for another day. But the only thing your pretty little head needs to know is that I can mostly get things out of it."

She makes a quick dissertation on her abilities, before resuming. "Of course. You don't even have to ask, Master Pliskin."

"Making sure it gets retrieved since I figured they wouldn't have checked the most obvious location while also trying to deal with all the other issues. I was out for a few hours, but I can still find a battlefield even in this weather." His words were slightly muffled from the cold weather clothing, but still easily audible. He continued to approached though, clearly not as worried about the pair. He was either fooled, or just did not see them as a threat "I was mostly here to make sure to grab my sword, since it may have been flung somewhere in the battle and not retrieved. I really wasn't expecting the entire body to still be here."

"Yes. It was lucky we both managed to find this site despite this terrible weather." he kept kneeling over the body reaching below its coat, "It's a real shame honestly. I hardly knew him yet all I could hear was the rest sing praises of him." "As for your sword, I have just found it," he drew out Dragon's Claw. To Oliver it was heavy and bulky, unwieldy to say the least. He prefered silenced pistols and daggers. Doubly so poison or curses. Less likely to leave traces. Oliver turned around and presented the sword with the tip facing down to the earth, his right hand still resting in his pocket.

@StarryCleric

Alex fully approached and pushed the sword aside "Wrong one. He had many good swords, but mine was not the heavy blade." He grabbed his sword, Heaven's Claw from the ground. An elegant blade made for dexterous use. The exposed metal was menacing when held by its actual master as if it was trying to say something about those around. Alex grabbed the sheath as well "The one you have there is Nidhogg's Fang. Mine is Heaven's Claw. Able to cleanly slice a man's head from his shoulder's without making a sound...." Alex looked at his blade with a bit of regret, before turning to Oliver. "Now then. Did the Director send you to get this body?"

He smiled sadly as he gripped Nidhogg's Blade, "Well, a wielder knows their sword best. I simply had to make an educated guess. Heaven's Claw sounds like a fine sword even if my foray was never really into blades. You must tell me more of it later, it sounds like it has a fine story to go along with it." Oliver weighed it in his hands and even moved it side to side to test its balance. In doing so he dropped it onto the snow and onto his foot. He let out a small intake of breath in surprise, enough to betray his shock at dropping it. Calculated of course and as he kneeled down to retrieve it. "And I heard about your partner... I'm sorry to hear that and I can only offer you my deepest condolences. I never got close to anyway that much before and with the extent you two... it must have hurt." (edited)

@StarryCleric

Alex grimaced a bit and sighed "Dodging the question.... please don't bring my ex into this. I am going to go see her after I am done here to make my peace with that situation. First I have to make peace with this one. Might as well get it done now while there is no one around to stop me aside from you." He pulls out the book at his side, it now being obviously a holy bible. What a church member can do with one of those is many, especially if they were one of the specially made ones. And this appeared to be exactly one of those.

Oliver looked blankly at Alex, his hand on his chin as his breath frosted in the air. "Did you come all the way out here to kill me, Master Alex? I do suppose I deserve it having decided to come all the way here alone to make sure a fellow master was buried correctly."

"No. If you assume I am here to kill you, you must have some deep seated guilt or hostility with the Church. That is of no concern to me currently. I am under no orders by anyone aside from myself. You can confess your sins at a later time. For now I am just making sure the body will be properly handled. Since we are out here and no one has found it yet...." The pages on the book begin to turn on their own as Alex starts to mutter a prayer.

"Well, I've known the Church easily manipulated to carry out foolhardy assassinations, especially if one has been discovering things about his organization he they shouldn't." Oliver added cryptically. He paced in the snow seemingly in thought, coincidentally standing between Alex and the body. Assassin, put your sights on my thigh, Oliver suddenly informed Vitch before continuing, "What do you intend to do with this body?"

9:44 AM

@StarryCleric @Sky_ | [NPC] | Sal [9] Walp [14]

"Make sure it will return to the earth. I'd recommend you stand back. Even in the cold, the flames will still be hot." He continues the prayer as a few of the pages in his book begin to fly out from him as the swirl around.

Assassin can't help but raise a brow at his request. But who is she to question it? I mean, besides the glamorous acting CEO of NFF Enterprises, but— Ah, whatever. She sets her sights. "Got eyes on the prize, sir."

"That would be foolish," he said, "Chaldea still lacks resources and we still have an upcoming singularity to resolve. I would rather no have us burn it without consideration and with such haste." Oliver decided to step forward and suddenly mouthed wordlessly to Alex, disguising it as a sudden coughing fit. "Don't. We are being watched."

9:49 AM

@StarryCleric

9:50 AM

"Anyway, sorry for that," he cleared his throat, "Freezing tempreture doesn't do my respiratory well. He was a half-blood, fire was his element."

9:52 AM

I'm attempting to sell a narrative, Assassin... all this to avoid a single question.

Alex would close the book as Oliver mentions the fire resistance and look at him with suspicion when he mouths something to him. The pages returning the the book "Good point. Cremation will not be as effective. Hmm...." Alex begins to think a bit as he looks between Oliver and the body, as well as checking his surroundings a bit "You are right. We are."

He sure was correct about being watched. But it wasn't by who he thought it was. No, the Counter Guardian was here, watching. He's not been here for a while though. ...Has he been found? Most likely. He drops his Invisibility. "...." Wordlessly, he stares the other two down.

10:01 AM

"Impressive." He didn't expect to be found. It must be because of his Masters deteriorating condition. The Mana flow's not as good as it used to be.

Now I did not expect that Oliver didn't betray his surprise as he took several steps back until he was standing side by side by Alex, like he was no Alex's teammate. "Assassin isn't it?" Oliver said, "Now what would you be doing here?"

"Ah. I was just with your partner, Assassin. He seemed to a bit under the weather. Were you out here looking for the body as well?" He side looks at Oliver, questioning a bit why the man suddenly swapped to a less confrontational position.

"Convenient isn't it?" Oliver raised his eyebrow at Emiya. "Convenient that you found this same place just behind me and Master Alex."

"I was with the other Guardian when he disappeared." "Looking for the Body."

"Well we found the body. Guess time to bring it back then?" He looks to the other two, not really seeing any reason for this to be anything more than taking a body back, since he couldn't cremate it to prevent fuckery

Oliver made a subtle show for Alex of him squinting at Emiya, clearly not trusting the assassin, "Yes... lets." he paused, "I repurposed a refrigerated cart on a sled that we can use to bring him in."

... This Man, he's acting suspicious. Well. The Assassin merely nodded his head.

Alex gave Oliver an odd look, putting his gear away as he got ready to assist with moving the corpse. He gave Assassin a look of 'what's with this guy' "Well let's get to work. No sense waiting out here in the cold longer."

Respectfully Oliver would move to lift Nagato's but found it surprisingly hard, "Master Alex, if you could please assist."

@StarryCleric

Alex would move to assist, he wasn't the strongest, but he wasn't feeble either. He was plenty capable of moving a body

Oliver made sure his back was to Emiya as he moved to lift Nagato's body. "Don't trust him," Oliver mouthed to Alex.

@StarryCleric

Alex simply looked at Oliver with a bit of a blank expression

Miyu, I found Nagato's boby and it is with a suspicious individual. Aden's Servant Assassin is with us as well, but this red headed man is alone. Inform the Director

10:34 AM

@Thicc|Fie/Ali/Ayu/Miyu/Nag/Mel

... The Assassin disappears from sight once more. Turning Invisible once more. If these two are going to carry the body, he doesn't need to help. Still. He has a bad feeling about what's going on.

O-ok, I'll inform the director right away.

Oliver would begin to drag to sled back to Chaldea, "Where should we store him?"

"We inform staff we have found the body and let them handle it. They can make sure it is handled properly."

Out in the snow. Quietly looking out for a few long moments... The woman took in a deep breath, sitting down on the edge of the entrance to Chaldea and... She sung. A young man walked through the forest With his quiver and hunting bow He heard a young girl singing And followed the sound below There he found the maiden Who lives in the willow He called to her as she listened From a ring of toadstools red 'Come with me my maiden Come from thy willow bed' She looked at him serenely And only shook her head. *A beautiful melody that begun to bend time and reality itself... Yet, she kept it contained. At least did her best. As the song wound up, it would become easy enough to track her... @RJ|Sir L/Lytus/Dude/Wolf/-/- 'See me now, a ray of light in the moondance See me now, I cannot leave this place Hear me now, a strain of song in the forest Don't ask me, to follow where you lead' A young man walked through the forest With a flower and coat of green His love had hair like fire Her eyes an emerald sheen She wrapped herself in beauty So young and so serene

The young man made no attempt to interrupt her, not for now. He made no attempt to speak, or make his presence known aside from the likely obvious spirit detection. Instead, he simply leaned against the wall of the facility, closing his eyes and allowing himself to be immersed in the song. The plight was similar, but certainly had a different tone... Or so he thought.

The woman kept on singing the beautiful meledy. He stood there under the willow And he gave her the yellow bloom 'Girl my heart you've captured Oh I would be your groom' She said she'd wed him never Not near, nor far, nor soon 'See me now, a ray of light in the moondance See me now, I cannot leave this place Hear me now, a strain of song in the forest Don't ask me, to follow where you lead' A young man walked through the forest With an axe sharp as a knife I'll take the green-eyed fairy And she shall be my wife With her I'll raise my children With her I'll live my life The maiden wept when she heard him When he said he'd set her free He took his axe and used it To bring down her ancient tree 'Now your willow's fallen Now you belong to me' 'See me now, a ray of light in the moondance See me now, I cannot leave this place Hear me now, a strain of song in the forest Don't ask me, to follow where you lead' She followed him out the forest, and collapsed upon the earth Her feet had walked but a distance, From the green land of her birth She faded into a flower, That would bloom for one bright eve He could not take from the forest, What was never meant to leave. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E52rxz2sjRs (edited)

Erutan

The Willow Maid - Erutan (katethegreat19)

8:30 PM

As the song wound to a close, the woman took in a deep breath... Only to sigh. Looking out into the wasteland. Stretching her wings and crossing her legs.

"..." Great. Now he didn't know how to start talking again. He had entered this situation with such bravado, how did he lose it so quickly? He racked his brain for something, anything.

The woman remained still, merely watching off to the distance. It seemed as if she wasn't planning on moving too much for the time being. Instead... She simply lingered, taking out yet another cigarette and smoking it.

Alright... Try something... Witty. "Am I the Willow Maiden, perhaps?" He cocked a brow and crossed his arms, smirking a little bit.

8:45 PM

Nailed it. Totally.

8:45 PM

Aaaaaaaaaaa.

". . . The song wasn't in relation to you. Though I suppose you do dance with the moon."

"I apologise. I just..." He huffed in frustration, placing himself in the snow not too far away from her. "I didn't mean to... Bring up any feelings like that. In fact I intended to do the opposite, I was trying to surrender to you and offer you my worship, what I thought you wanted but..." "...Wow this situation truly has turned on its head, has it not?"

"Little hunter. I do not believe you understand something. Your worship in death means little, it warms my heart to hear the fact you understand your mistakes. Yet it is too late to change your way when you're a guest of the house of hades."

9:03 PM

"I am a selfish goddess at the end of the day, little hunter. I do not wish to share that which should be mine. I tolerate the hijinks and little girl troupe of Artemis regardless, however when you denied me- it was but a step too far. An insult. Correcting it now... It does little to change that. It does not right a wrong. The annels of history are already written and set in stone. Besides. Your devotion to her will always prohibit you from ever truly venerating me in the way I'd wish for you to do so." She mused for a moment, tilting her head. "Love is the strongest form of passion. To get lost in it, that is my domain. Love does not need to cloud one's judgement, however to restrain oneself from ever truly embracing it like Artemis does... That is something I see as a loss. A tragedy even. I pity you, little hunter."

"...Perhaps we see our situations differently. What you view as death... I view as a second life. A second chance to do things that perhaps... We could not have done in life. Or I suppose could not have done amongst those of Mount Olympus, in your case. And... What you describe, if it is the way in which you describe it... It does not need to interfere with my oaths." He leaned back a bit. Yes, he was sure... He was confident in his faith. And he was confident that he could express it like this. "My falling in love... Is not out of the question just yet. After all, what is the pursuit of romance but another hunt?"

"I will be watching curiously when you do then, Little Hunter. Love is a wonderous experience, ambrosia of life unknown to many gods. Savour it if you can, if you see this as a second life... Well, what better way to celebrate it?" She mused before tilting her head to the side. "You know, the reason I view it as death is because it is what it is. I know how the throne works, though not exactly in detail but enough to understand just what machinations it undertakes... Still, I suppose it is somewhat true. After all..." "You are you still, are you not?"

"I suppose if we want to discuss if I am still the same Hippolytus of Athens that you set your machinations upon, we'd have to start talking about my father's boat..." He mused to himself a little bit, rubbing his chin.

"I will let you figure that one out~"

"...Still. I know of what you speak of. After all... I felt the divinity of a love goddess in each of my spiritrons not so long ago. And I certainly don't think I will be the same."

". . ."

9:28 PM

The woman remained silent for a few long moments.

"Granted... If I'm summoned to some other grail war I may forget, but... For as long as I remember that moment..."

9:32 PM

He wasn't sure how to express what he had felt in that moment. Or how he felt even now. "I suppose... I'll know what I was missing out on."

"I was hoping you wouldn't remember it was my aid there, little hunter."

9:42 PM

"I don't give aid to these who do not venerate me, you know?"

"...Well, it was to save humanity, no one could possibly blame you, nor think less of you for it." "Besides... Of course I would remember. I know what her divinity feels like... Yours is almost the polar opposite, as much as you tried to disguise it."

"Hers might be... Still, and calming, and quiet despite how bright it is, but yours... It burns, in all the best and worst possible ways. It felt as though my heart were going to burst out of my chest at rapid speeds, I felt all the love I have ever felt for others at once, and all the joy and misery and pleasure and pain it had given me, and in the end, to preserve all of that... That is what drove me forward into the heart of the beast."

". . . That was only possible because your sacrifice was not done for the moon, little hunter. It was done for your friends. For people you were passionate for." With that the assassin chuckled. "Ah but it does not matter too much now does it? You are back."

"Well, I have to say, even knowing it was you I was channelling..."

10:49 PM

"I would do it again in a heartbeat. I wouldn't mind that kind of power flowing through me again."

This entire situation was insane, but... He would speak his truth, no matter what. But... That was probably about it. "Will you stay out here?"

"Apologies. I'm thinking some things over that is all. Still..." With that the woman smirked a little "Love is a wonderful thing. Of course it was enjoyable."

"...Mm." He nodded, turning to face the entrance. "Let's have that dance again soon-ish. I suppose I'll seek you out when."

"Oh and Hippolytus..." With that Aphrodite paused for just a moment, smiling a little before speaking. "Take this chance to live for yourself, will you?" @RJ|Sir L/Lytus/Dude/Wolf/-/-

". . . Yes, Lady Aphrodite. As you wish. That... Is an oath." Not like he wasn't planning on doing it anyway, but... Now he most certainly had to.

One two three four-- With that Theano tossed a salvo of black keys up in the air. Following the first Salvo she quickly reached into the book to rip out additional pages and shot out a second one- trying to hit the keys already in the air with the ones she just tossed... Two out of four. Try again. One two three four-- Killing time until teacher had a moment. Though normally she'd practice in the Virtual Space... She had grown tired of the simulation. She had spent too much time in there, though it did it's best to seem like reality there was always something different in training your actual body's reflexes. Something much more exciting for her. Another salvo. This time she hit three out of four. Her time in the Singularity had given her a lot to think about. Too much perhaps. Biting her lower lip she let out a soft scoff. Still not good enough. Even now, after getting so much stronger than she was before... She still felt like she needed to be babysat by her own servants. Perhaps that's just simply how it had to be for her. Tsk. One two three-- @[Serpon]Teno/Penth/Nico/Azu

Ciel would take a moment to look from the distance, seeing Fee train. In such a short amount of time, the girl had learned much. Ciel had help her along the way but much of it was mostly due to Fee own hardwork. The Burial Agent took a moment to keep watching for a bit longer. After a few more moment she would make her presence clear and walk towards her student. "Very impressive, in such a short amount of time, you have learned much. Most masters don't improve as fast as you do, you might be setting some kind of new record." said Ciel in an approving tone while giving a smile to Fee.

--! Even now, she didn't hear Ciel approaching... Her master was quite scary at times. "Ah-- Thank you teacher. I appreciate the compliment. Though all I did was follow your teachings and put them into practice." With that the woman turned to face Ciel with a smile. "I suppose I did jump into the deep water to learn, after all in the singularity it's very much so swim or drown. I've came close to drowning one too many times for personal comfort but it did teach me plenty." Theano nodded before retrieving her black keys back into her tome. "I do apologize for asking you to come out here-- It's just... I suppose some privacy helps as well as fresh air. Would you like to take a walk with me or is the cold too much?"

It seemed that Fee was a bit humble but sometimes it was okay to take pride in one's own accomplishment and work. "Perhaps but their aren't that many who could follow my instructions so well. I have had a number of students in the past, like Noel, Chris and Sunao. None of them were able to learn as fast as you did." said Ciel in an approving tone as she then continued to listen to her student. "Trial by fire can be an effective way to learn though dangerous. Still, you are learn and getting stronger, thing should get easier for you. It feels just like yesterday you come to me, asking to join the Church and be my student. Time really does fly." said Ciel as she felt that encounter had just happened very recent. Honestly, how long ago was it? "The cold is fine. This is nothing compared to the Dead Apostle Ancestor Vlov idea blood, who would make the area drop to absolute zero. Now then, what do you wish to discuss?"

"I suppose I've always been a good learner when I had the knowledge in front of me. Though if I'm being honest having a harsh teacher certainly helped." Theano chuckled, as kind as Ciel could be the lessons were pretty hands on for the most part... Not to mention the woman had far longer measure of 'what it takes to get tired' than herself... "Truthfully ever since I've asked to study under you I haven't taken much time off, few hours at most to eat, read and sleep. Not that I mind, it is what was necessary but..." With that Theano glanced up at the sky for a short moment. "Being out there in the field gave me a lot of time to think and consider things I suppose in a way. Brushing by death also made me realize just how dangerous it all is. I can't really imagine how you've handed Dead Apostle Ancestors even now, Teacher. I have had the chance to read about their power, frankly... I'm not sure I'll ever be on the same level as you to be able to take them on. That's perhaps why I wanted to ask you for some help here." With that Theano chuckled a little. "I'll be heading to the Giant's Causeway in the Singularity. I've been given information by Sourd that a way to restore the sash-- Vee's Scarf might be potentially reachable trough it. I've already got a... Different regent for it so to speak, but I still need suitable enough cloth." She nodded a little. "I'm aware of the power the Seventh Holy Scripture Wields, while my own bow isn't a small Mystic Code either considering the power of a dragon in it I have come to realize that Servants and many other dangerous entities may possess something that rivals your Relic's power one day. Unless I repair what little I have left, I won't ever be ready to take them on. Not to mention..." Theano paused for a short moment before simply sighing. "Nevermind. It doesn't matter. Would you be willing to help me out?"

"If I am not harsh on you, then the enemy will be. Better that I teach you the harsh lessons of reality then the enemy. After all, the enemy will most likely not give you a second chance. Though I am glad to see that my lessons to you are paying off." stated the Burial Agent as she nodded to Fee. She would then continue to listen as her student spoke. Her words brought back memories, of how Ciel first was when she joined the Church. "It can be tempting to give yourself into work, constantly training and fighting. Thinking that you are doing good work but such a thing cannot be sustained forever. You should take some time to have a bit of fun and relax, otherwise you will turn into a monster." said Ciel as she remembered how she got a dreaded reputation in the Church and was willing to justify killing humans for the so called greater good. "I had a few cheats to help balance the scale. Seventh Holy Scripture is one of many trump cards I have as it alone wouldn't have allowed me to win versus them. If you are ever to face them, try to bring along a few heroic spirits if you can to act as your trump cards. And I do mean more then one heroic spirit. Studying them and observing them is also critical. Even for someone like me, I don't try to rush into such a battle without doing plenty of research, such as how their idea blood works." said Ciel as she recalled her past experience. Many of the Dead Apostle Ancestors she had beaten was thanks to her immorality, armour and other idea bloods she had acquired. Ciel would then listen as her student spoke about reclaiming her family relic. She had been their when the sash had been damaged. "I understand, of course I am willing to help. I honestly need a break from all this paper work I have been doing." said Ciel as she knew how important that sash was to her and her family. It was their family crest, proof of who they were and their connection to their past.

"I'll be honest with you Ciel. I'm not too keen on taking breaks. Not yet. I've watched the Goetia fight as it unfolded. I saw how it went... If we ever have to face a foe like this again--" Theano paused for just a moment, biting her lower lip. "We're lacking experienced people. Who are left? You and Astrea? Maybe Erik? There isn't even remotely enough people with the battle experience necessary to take on a threat like that. Sure, we have servants but even then... Lucius is about the only one strong enough to face off someone like that! I just..." The woman shook her head, staring off into the distance. "Taking a break seems like a terrible thing to do now. That's why I've been working myself to the bone. I cannot replace Veronique but I can at least make up for a portion of the strength she provided to the cause." With that Theano smiled a little sadly. Nodding at her Teacher's words the girl quietly reached into her pocket, taking out a small bagette and opening it just a little to show it to the woman. Inside? White powder. To be exact... Bone Powder. Yet the magic that came off of it was quite immense.

12:27 PM

"I'm working on my own cheat I guess. I know that many factors come into consideration when dealing with powerful foes. That's why I plan to stack my own deck as much as I can. These are the powdered bones of the Dragon of Britain. I will weave them into the sashes fabric in order to act both as a good material to transfer magical energy as well as reinforce it similarly to the church robes. The next thing I need to find is a suitable fabric. That's what this endeavour is all about. I originally sought to merely rebuild the Sash of Ares but now... I suppose it's uttermost destruction made me realize that just sitting in the past isn't enough. Hell... Seeing the Heroic Spirits made me think that too. I need that connection to the past but we should learn and evolve. That's why I want it to become something to protect not only me but any Nicolo's that come after. Be it from my sister or myself." The woman noted before smiling a little at Ciel. It was a honest smile. "Truthfully I had been a little worried about you considering the paperwork. Once this singularity concludes I will turn all my attention to assist you in setting up all you need." Theano chuckled, covering her lips just a little before tilting her head to the side. For once, that serious look fully faded. "Honestly, I can spend whole weeks in the field and not notice but the moment I think about doing the sheer volume of paperwork you have to deal with I feel a little sick."

12:28 PM

@[Serpon]Teno/Penth/Nico/Azu (edited)

"We are indeed lacking some experience people. But if you push yourself too much, you might break down in both the mind and body. You are not a heroic spirit who can constantly push themselves. You don't have some kind of super regeneration power either. Sometimes taking a moment to stop and breathe can do a lot more for the mind and body then continuing to train. I am not saying to stop but just to sometimes take a moment to pause and smell the flowers. We also have a number of new powerful servants showing up as well. Scathach, Penthesilea and don't forget about Ortlinde. Besides, we will most likely be getting a new wave of reinforcement when the storm ends." Ciel would then listen as Fee began to talk about her own cheat she was working on. She would give an approving nod to her student, glad to see that she wasn't stuck in the past. "Glad you are being creative and trying to go beyond what it once was. A lot of people are stuck thinking old fashion. You should have seen what Seventh Holy Scripture first was when I got it, nothing more then a horn. I will gladly help you on your endeavor to make your next cheat code." said Ciel as she gave an approving smile. "The thing about paper work is that one day it will end. Sure their will be some small paper work that will need to get done but it won't be anywhere near as bad and I can probably get a few members of Chaldea staff and perhaps even the Church to do it for me. Though I am thankfully that you are willing to assist me. And I understand that feeling as well. To think that some people thrive in such a setting." @Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

"Hah. I'm not too bad about it myself, I do enjoy a good book or even writing reports however there is a clear limit for me. Glad to hear you feel similarly on that front, Ciel." With that the woman chuckled quietly, shaking her head before smiling. "While you are correct about us having powerful heroic spirits, they aren't infallible. In fact I consider them less reliable than living humans. Heroic Spirits can be unsummoned, hijacked and even entirely taken over by the enemy. They're sworn to their master by the power of command seals and their 'honour'. Frankly speaking, they aren't something we should rely on when the need strikes. Just a tool to use when necessary. Even if I treasure some of them as friends I cannot forget that laying my life in their hands is putting my life in the hands of a walking corpse." Her answer was perhaps just a little cynical. "Super regeneration power huh? Sounds like an useful skill to have. If you ever have a suggestion on how I can get it let me know. You know I've been reading a lot about dead apostles. Were it not for the whole 'going insane for blood', 'exclusively blood based diet' and 'being a sadistic piece of shit' it might actually be tempting. Even if apparently curry can be a substitute."

Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae started a thread. 2022-09-09 5:14 PM

"You are right on heroic spirits but perhaps that is what makes them truly useful. Because they aren't truly alive, they can be used in suicide mission's. As for them switching sides, don't remind me, had that happened to me twice. Both times, I had to put the heroic spirit down myself, both time's I almost died. The main difference between us and a heroic spirit is that when they die, they can be resummoned, such rules do not apply for us. I am actually working with Olga to implement a system to resummon servants in case of an emergency, such as them being turned into dead apostles." said Ciel as she didn't want to fight another heroic spirit if possible. She had seen as their pride and arrogance had caused them to be corrupted. "Even the dead apostle who is using curry as a substitute still requires some blood. A bit of your humanity is lost in the process. Turning into a dead apostle doesn't just affect your body but it affects your soul as well."

@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

". . . I see. That does seem quite problematic. Granted it does seem like a price some would be willing to pay, though I can only imagine how a long lifespan could make a person cold and distant. Not to mention the change from seeing people as companions and friends into..." With that Theano paused, looking off to the side and muttering "Food." "In regards to heroic spirits, it's a bit odd how they function. On one hand I do respect them. On the other I cannot help but to wonder just how much of their tales and power is real and how much of it comes from the imagination and hopes of people who want their power to be real. It's admirable in a way, though it makes me question the limits of what I can achieve. Ultimately I don't know when I'll be able to take one of them on without exposing myself to imminent death. I'm quite certain there is still a lot for me to learn." @[Serpon]Teno/Penth/Nico/Azu

"Aye, hence why some mages choose to use their own magecraft to turn themselves into dead apostles. For a mage, it means they can continue to reach the root without worrying about old age. As such, it makes it very tempting for them and also dangerous for us, as we are not just facing a dead apostle but a magus as well. To them, companions mean nothing when it comes to reaching the root." "What is real is the power that they give to you. The ability for us to overcome some of the greatest enemies out there. The rest you can simple see as a cost of this power. But yes, it's not like the power of a heroic spirit is unmatchable, those of us in the Burial Agency are able to match them. With me being the lowest and weakest among the Burial Agency. And yes, their is much for you to learn, your making excellent progress though." @Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

Despite Ciel's words the girl seemed to be... Somewhat discouraged. "If it takes that great a degree of power to be able to match the power of a servant, chances are I will never be able to reach that pinnacle. Still, thank you for the compliment." With that Theano glanced off into the wasteland for a few long moments. "It's hard to believe you'd be the weakest of the Burial Agency. Here I thought you'd be considered to be among the strongest within it. I suppose it makes sense though, the reason as to why you keep working hard to improve on yourself." Taking in a deep breath of the bitter cold air, Theano stopped to think for a moment. Reminiscing about Veronique and her accomplishments. Her battles... Just how hard must it have been for her? She wasn't like her sister. She never could be in fact. She was neither as skilled nor as durable as she was. She lacked the strength necessary to sacrifice everything and put her very life on the line for her beliefs. She was always too much of a thinker for that. Too aware of the consequences such actions would bring. It was her Altruism that gave her that strength after all, willingness to accept consequences of her actions no matter what. Yet. All it took was a single stab to the chest. She didn't want to end up like her. Rather... She knew she wouldn't ever be able to. "I suppose we will do what little we can. When facing Dead Apostles, Heroes of Old that wield power of literal deities at their fingertips... We really aren't much huh?"

1

7:53 PM

@[Serpon]Teno/Penth/Nico/Azu

"And yet people do reach this level. It may seem impossible but it can be done. How many of the heroic spirits are their, many of them are humans who have reached that level. Look at some of the masters who have also reached the level of heroic spirits here. Your sister managed to do so and I am sure you can you do so as well, I do see the potential in you." said Ciel in a supportive tone. She would then smile at Fee comment before shaking her head back and forth indicating that Fee was wrong on her statement. "Gods, Heroic Spirits and even Dead Apostles, what are they without us? Without worshippers, God's become weak, I have defeated my own share of them as well. What is a heroic spirit with a master, just a servant about to fade away. Dead Apostles without human blood will soon die. They aren't stronger then us, they are nothing more the parasites. It's like saying what is our power to that of a gun." @Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

"I'm not like my sister." Theano's response was quick, shaking her head and laughing just a little. "She had the potential to achieve that level because she would do anything to get there without thinking twice. From charging into an army on horseback alone all the way to taking on a God without the slightest hint of fear. She was impressive. Stupid- But impressive. She was a real amazon. I have never been anything like that. I'm not strong, despite how much I've improved I still find myself barely standing after a single barrage made against me. Despite my speed- I still do not compare to what she was capable of doing." With that the girl reached into her pocket to take the scraps of the sash. "You're right though. Humans are the energy needed for all these beings to flourish. However not everyone can be as strong as you, as strong as her. I'm just fighting against the current to get there. One of these days my guile and strategy will not be enough to push forth. I don't have the strength to face the world on like you-- or her for that matter." With that Theano finally put the scraps away. "I'm quite aware of how much I've came to 'cheat' on my way to get here, Teacher. These people who clambered their way to the top. The ones you mention- they never had as much help as I did. My achievements are built upon the backs of Giants. The moment they fall- so do I. My bow... The Tattoo. They saved my life more times than I can count. Hell, without your Warding Sacrament I wouldn't be here either. I did not overcome the challenges put before me- I got carried trough them. Without all this help I am nothing. On the other hand, I don't think I've even seen you use the Seventh Holy Scripture yet. You don't need it's help to get by. On the other hand- I needed all this to just survive."

9:34 PM

@[Serpon]Teno/Penth/Nico/Azu

"Of course not and your sister wasn't like me. Yeah, she would go in charging in the front line and get seriously hurt, causing her long term damage that slowed her down. You on the other hand know how to fight efficiently, how to learn efficiently. I will be honest, if I had to face either you or your sister in a fight, I would rather fight your sister. Your sister I know what to expect, I know how to fight her. But you, you will surprise me and catch me off guard. Yes, you need to study and work harder then me or her but I know you can get there. You have grown much." Ciel would watch as ass Fee took out the scrap and continued to talk how she was lacking. How she needed cheats to win. "Everyone needs cheats to win. If your own power isn't strong enough, then take the power of another and make it your own. When I kill a dead apostle ancestor, I take their idea bloods and turn it into my own ability. Cheat to win in a fight versus what you would consider a god and then make their power yours. And continue to learn how to get stronger and stronger. Every day that I see you, you seem to grow and may I add in more ways then one." @Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

". . ." Theano paused for a long moment, closing her eyes to consider the woman's words before finally letting out a sigh and giving CIel a long look over. "Do you truly think I can get there or are you just saying it so I don't give up? I don't think I compare to my sister, though I cannot deny the fact you're right on one front..." "Veronique was more predictable than a math equation. At least in Maths there are Variables. With Vee there were none. She was as straightforward as it gets."

11:17 PM

@[Serpon]Teno/Penth/Nico/Azu

"I honestly do believe you can do it. Speaking of Vee, she may surprise you. Did I ever tell you about the time she cheated in a contest?"

1

". . . Vee cheated in a contest?"

"Yes, it was back in the forest singularity. She was going up against Sunao in a killing contest with other members of Chaldea, the rules was no interference. The very first thing Vee does is went in and block Sunao line of sight so that Sunao couldn't attack. Even the other Chaldea servants called her out on that."

". . . Snrk. I see she actually used her brain for once. Granted, cheating in a friendly contest is a bit dishonourable isn't it?"

"But when rules are clearly set and you break them, then what is the point of the contest? This wasn't a fight to death or something, this was a contest between two allies. Such a thing does probably more harm then good."

"True. I don't see why she would ever do that." Theano nodded in agreement. "Why are you telling me this though?"

"Why do you think I am telling you this story?"

". . . To show me that Veronique wasn't perfect?"

12:20 AM

@[Serpon]Teno/Penth/Nico/Azu

"That and she grew and changed as a person."

". . . I see." With that Theano nodded, falling silent for a few long moments.

"So Fee, what do you plan to do now?"

"Same thing I've been doing."

"Good to hear, now then, show me what you got." said Ciel as she would then sit down and wait for Fee to do her thing.

With a nod, the girl took out her Book of Providence. Licking her fingers, she quickly tugged at the pages in order to have them unfurl into Black Keys. Tossing them into the air- she sent the first Salvo up in order to linger there. In a moment she followed it up with a second- this time faster Salvo aimed at the handles of the keys-- Though she missed a few of them. A vast majority of the keys released actually managed to get tilted downwards as she intended and begin to fall down on an area not too far away like a rain.

12:49 AM

". . . I'm still only consistently hitting about three fourths of the keys."

"Many members of the Church don't get to such a level, most simply giving up and choosing to use Ash Locks instead."

"Most members of the Church don't have a Burial Agent as a teacher either." Theano noted in response.

A figure is seen on the horizon walking towards Chaldea, cloaked in heavy winter gear for travel and a variety of general camping tools. He looked towards the facility with a smile on his face, his 2 month journey of self discovery having born fruit, and finally having come back to what he could call his home. He wondered how everyone was doing, how the various issues were going, if Vee's siblings were doing well in their training and advancing, and if Miyu was doing ok. He continued forward, walking through the snow as he got closer to returning, the wind blowing lightly at his hair, revealing many scars across his forehead. His eyes glowed briefly as he pulled his hood back up and brushed his hair back down. Alex was finally back home

The Assassin made his presence known. His Gun was drawn and pointed at- ..Ah. He's returned.

4:04 PM

"Welcome Back." He wasn't usually one for this stuff, but he was in a good mood.

"Assassin. I hope you have been well." Alex said, not having strayed from his path, entirely unconcerned with the potential danger. He seemed heavily aware of his surroundings, walking calmly, he eyes Assassin as he showed up, only lightly surprised by the reveal, but still calmly moving. "has Aden already 'returned to his family'?"

"Expired." There's no need to sugarcoat it. He's sure Alex was talking about this in the first place. The Assassin holsters his Contender. This is not a threat.

As Alex got closer and was now easily within 30 ft of Assassin, it was obvious there was a different aura about him. The way he stood and moved was a little less fluid than previously, though when he had left he was second only to Ciel in terms of that among the Masters. "There may have been a better place for him to pass, but at least he was among friends and comrades here." He would pull out a book and make a note in it, before closing it and giving a quick prayer "Have you found yourself someone new to work with yet Assassin?"

"It was my first priority." The Man is different for sure. The last time EMIYA had seen him was on the day the Counter Force appeared in Chaldea. He was a Man of few words either way, his personal story didn't concern him.

With a rumbling in the distance due to a certain trap being triggered, Alex would look towards the facility of Chaldea. "It seems there is still some commotion going on. Perhaps my new capabilities will be needed already. I had hoped to see the Director first...." He would then look back at Assassin, eyes lightly glowing as he scanned the man up and down "Give me an update on what has been going on since it seems things are not going to stay quiet"

"New Singularity. Likely the last." "Cult of Mages have invaded Ireland and England, Clocktower Lords. They operate on Belief being Power, which is why even their regular Cultists are able to harm us Servants. We're currently invading Ireland to expel the Lord of Growth, a Magus trying to become a Witch."

4:28 PM

"We are in a pact with the Clocktower Lord Sourd, stationed in London. He is our ally for now."

"What is the state of the Holy Church in the area and what time period is it in? And do you know of the details of the pact with the Clocktower Lord?"

"To keep it short." "Theano Nicolo and Monta Muramasa will lose the ability to pass on their Crest if they betray Sourd, Should Chaldea as an Organization betray Sourd then Taigong will have to eliminate those that approved of this, and if Taigong chooses to betray Sourd he has to eliminate his Master." "In return, we will get Sourds Aid and access to London as a Rayshifting Point."

4:35 PM

"I don't think the Holy Church is active. I haven't heard of them being spotted just yet."

4:38 PM

"I suggest reading through the recent reports to get a better picture."

"That is concerning if the Holy Church is not active in England." He would think for a moment, before nodding "I shall. Hopefully I will be able to be of assistance here. Let's go, worst case that rumble was actually a hostile" He would quicken his pace as he finally arrived back in Chaldea

The Assassin vanished from sight once more. If it was a Threat, the Alarms would be blaring for sure.

Nobuko's latest assignment required her to travel all the way to Antartica in order to join and assist an organization known as Chaldea. Apparently, a lot has happened under the noses of almost everyone in the world. Nobuko has recently been granted the opportunity to participate in whatever campaign is ongoing within Chaldea. And because of how secretive the organization is, Nobuko could assume that whatever the Chaldeans were doing was something of the utmost importance. She sees this as a great privilege and an opportunity to test what she has learned so far. On her way to Chaldea's base of operations in a helicopter, she was briefed by her senior about what she is to do there and what her role is exactly: to protect humanity and become a Master of a legend from the past. It sounded incredibly ambitious, almost like a child's imagination coming to life. Nobuko found it to be humorous until her senior elaborated on how serious the situation was. She is very much familiar with the practice of being a leader but never did she think she would have command over powerful entities known as Heroic Spirits. When the aircraft landed, Nobuko was escorted by her senior before being left alone to begin her new mission. She stood in front of the large doors of the facility, waiting out in the cold. The climate was getting to her so she'd produce a flame hot enough to keep herself warm. If not for her immunity to fire, she would have suffered from some burns. For now, she is just waiting for someone to answer the door. Patient. For now.

(If you want to RP with Nobuko, let her in, just ping me! I'll leave this here for a bit. eresheart

)

And conveniently, a wandering Heroic Spirit, otherwise called a Servant or Ghost Liner if you prefer, was passing by close enough to hear the helicopter's arrival. Stopping out of curiosity at the unexpected sounds that indicated a new arrival, she waited and watched the doors from the other side, somewhat entertaining the idea of an invasion force that might break up the daily routine here. After a few minutes with no armed squad ramming their way through the doors, however, she decided to take a look herself, stepping forward to throw the doors open and see what had landed out there right in front of Chaldea...

(@ArbyOrNotToBe)

2

some say the red string of fate is something real and to admire... Seems to be the case here too. It's not difficult to imagine what Nobukatsu was doing... But we'll leave that to imagination. Something weird was about to happen, it was a guts feeling... And if it had to do with his beloved sister, Nobukatsu wouldn't lose a moment of it

As the doors slowly open, Nobuko is greeted by presence of fellow Japanese. By just looking at them, Nobuko could tell that they are not normal. At the same time, she could identify some sort of connection. Not just because they were Japanese but also because of something else. She could not put her finger on it. Following basic formalities, Nobuko proceeds to introduce herself to the individuals that have met her by one of the entrances to Chaldea. She first bows towards them, eyes shut. She wore clothing to fight the winter but it was still pretty cold for the Japanese magus. "Greetings. I am Oda Nobuko from the Clock Tower. I have been assigned here by my seniors to help aid in your mission of protecting humanity."

Giving her a polite nod in return, Nobunaga looks the lady over, noting something familiar-seeming about her as well... Then her name confirms the Servant's rising sense of who this is. Waving for her to step forward, Nobu smiles warmly. "So that's how it came to be? At least for one line, anyway. Good enough they ended up with something... Brought here for the mission you speak of, I am Oda Nobunaga...one version with that name, that is. From what you know, is the clan still doing well?"

a laughter could be heard from the back, as Nobukatsu decided to make himself known... Tho everyone had spotted him "Seriously? Fate is that fickle huh. Well, Oda Nobu...katsu" the boy stuttered a bit, remembering the words of her master. " The BROTHER of Nobunaga Oda, not the son. Some remember me as nobuyuki it seems."

"Right, Nobukatsu, you're here too. I had almost forgotten about that with how much you just hover around me..."

1

While bowing, Nobuko's eyes slowly widen as she hears the name of both persons in front of her. She then quickly lifts her head up to look at both them, exchanging glances at a fast pace. There are a few times where Nobuko would break character - this was one of them. "The two of you are..." Nobuko finally gets it. With a deep breath to compose herself, Nobuko continues on with the conversation with Nobunaga and Nobukatsu. "Forgive me... I, I am surprised to be greeted by my ancestors. On the first day at that. I am aware of what Chaldea is capable of but... it is still strange." The enforcer-in-training admits. She could not lie. If Nobukatsu and Nobunaga were closely inspecting their descendant, they'd notice something about her eyes. They were special. While it does not appear to be active, they can feel as if this pressuring gaze is touching their hearts. The feeling was cold, authoritative.

@Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae @Shiki Nanaya sorry for the long wait. I fell asleep.

1

"As for the clan," She looks towards Maou. "I suppose the simplest term to use is 'all right'. Before I was brought to this world, my relatives were farmers. I decided upon myself to bring more light to the Oda name."

"Chance is a funny thing, isn't it? For both of us to be near enough that we heard your vehicle arrive. Chaldea is strange but impressive indeed, as you might expect from those it gathers." Looking Nobuko over for a closer inspection as she walked up, Nobunaga gave an approving nod and put out a hand. "I like your eyes, Nobuko. Even if you're the first one to attempt making something of the clan in a long time, that expression and presence tell me you can and will do it. Shall I show you around here?"

"It would an honor, ancestor. Hmm... How should I address you?" Nobuko asks.

the clan huh... The clan... Same clan who quickly rode with Nobukatsu and tried to revolt against his sister twice... It was clear as sky that Nobukatsu was on the defensive here. If she was half as much as the one he swayed, shed have to be pruned too. "Call me Nobukatsu." A quick and brief answer, as he started registering and keeping tabs on this girl

"Nobunaga will do, outside of formalities. Nobu, perhaps, if it's clear who you're talking to."

"I shall call you by your given names then. It makes sense as we are family." Nobuko concludes. With the cold of Antartica bothering Nobuko, the ravenette frowns. She proceeds to enter the facility while looking around. "So how long have the both of you been walking the Earth?" Nobuko, in truth, was surprised that Nobunaga was a woman. Then again, she did say that she was a 'version with that name'.

@Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae @Shiki Nanaya

"Nobukatsu, close the doors." Walking along with Nobuko as they headed further inside, Nobunaga thought for a couple moments. "A few weeks now? Nobukatsu arrived a few days ago, however. And we're all but stuck here or wherever Chaldea deploys us to, walking the Earth is out of reach..."

"So you have never seen what it is like outside these doors? A shame. While there are many parts of the world that are disgusting, there are a few treasures among them - hidden in plain sight."

Scene would have moved elsewhere anyway so closing this

Somewhere out in the cold and snowy wastes... Something unusual is happening. A giant lady stands amidst the Antarctic chill, her open palm held up by her face, where...someone is helping comb and brush her hair? Stopping for a moment to seemingly study their work, they hold a mirror out for the giant to take a look themselves. "Do you like that? I think it came out well~ Next is your horns, I think, and then..."

@Nommyuks

1

"Ehehehe..." Amidst the algid winds blowing were the cutting giggles of a giant beast, brimming with such contrastingly jovial warmth. Even as the icy temperatures battered her grass fur, the giantess beamed with a wide smile as her heart felt warm and full. Just the mere act of getting her hair brushed by her Master brought the sun to such a desolate wasteland. "Uwah! There's no hair breaks or flyaways... Amazing! Master's haircare... so this is what small people can do!" While Kingprotea did not have access to hair products because she usually requires so much per bath, it is not as if she was stinky! In fact, she was quite self-conscious about her musk. It's important for a beast, after all! So, like a good girl, she sat down while using her hand as a platform for Petra to stand on during the hygienic care. When mentioning her horns, the Alter-Ego leaned her head forward and then crooked her neck to the side to offer a horn for Petra to start on and even climb on if necessary. It was as if her Master was her remora, engaging in mutualism together! Of course Kingprotea would be absolutely glowing with joy and excitement right now!

@Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae

"Yup! I took lessons and watched people just for this... Although I forgot who they were exactly, that's still fine!" Continuing her well-practiced work, the results were unquestionable, even if she didn't fully grasp what she was doing. Leaving the grassy giant's hair tamed and neat, Petra's smile beamed back just as brightly. Brush, scissors, and misting bottle on hand, the lack of any other haircare products involved in the process didn't seem to faze the offbeat part-fae, as she admired her hobbyist craft! Climbing onto Kingprotea's horn next, she replaced the items in the bag she carried with her, bringing out tools to clean and wash the grass-coated growth. Even with the giant Alter Ego's own attention to her musk and scent, the small woman had brought along a selection of perfumes acquired...somewhere for her Servant to test. "Some of these smell pretty good, I think you'd enjoy them~"

@Nommyuks

"You did all that for me!? W-wow...!" Kingprotea's face flushed scarlet over the sentiment, unable to hide her happiness and fantasizing about Petra working hard for her. This wasteland just got a little warmer! "Eh!? Really!? Oooh! I hope there's enough then!" Technically, there's so much surface area to cover on Kingprotea, so maybe more perfume would be required for her? The giantess wasn't sure herself... Her "mother" avoids her, so she never had her hygiene done by someone else. "...I! I want to smell like Master...!" Blurting out clumsily, the beast unsurprisingly wished to share the same musk or scent as her Master. After all, it would mean that the two of them belong to each other! Thus, in other words... marking!

@Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae

. . . . . . Just a penguin out on a stroll. No one that anyone would have recognized, she is far too high profile for that after all... Still, she couldn't help but to see one of her co-- No. Fans out here in the snow.

12:04 AM

"You're making a ruckus." The soft tones of the star carried on the wind. Hiding beneath her parka was a hint of lavender hair, eyes covered by a pair of sunglasses. Taking a sip of her drink that she definitely did not mug one of the cafeteria staff for, she glanced between the two of them gathered before continuing. "If you are planning to bring down the ceiling on all my avid fans below, I will have to strongly suggest you reconsider. You should keep your servant under control." @Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae @Nommyuks

Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach started a thread. 2022-11-09 5:31 PM

"You're making a ruckus." The soft tones of the star carried on the wind. Hiding beneath her parka was a hint of lavender hair, eyes covered by a pair of sunglasses. Taking a sip of her drink that she definitely did not mug one of the cafeteria staff for, she glanced between the two of them gathered before continuing. "If you are planning to bring down the ceiling on all my avid fans below, I will have to strongly suggest you reconsider. You should keep your servant under control." @Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae @Nommyuks

@Mysterious Guin Λ (@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach) - jump "I'm not sure we'd like the same-" Turning, Petra looked down at the source of the sound, the wind carrying its soft tones...but as she was standing aloft on the giant's shoulder, the distance and gusts muffled it incomprehensibly. Tilting her head, she called loudly back down at the figure clearly looking the pair over. "I can't hear you! We're a little busy, so would you like to come up here? That's a cute bird costume too~"

"Really? But I like it too when Master smells like bloo--" Kingprotea was in the middle of saying something innocently eerie before her senses picked up another Servant approaching. If she had been by herself, she'd appreciate the rare company. But, with Petra here... Just like a dog, the kaiju put her guard up as the hair on her body rose defensively until the figure came into her field of vision. "Ah? Is this a friend of yours, Master? Or should I squish them?" A puerile question, but the giantess spoke it with such naturalness as if something so arbitrary was enough for her to simply decide someone's fate. However, instead of waiting for Petra's response, the context of scents got Kingprotea's nose sniffing. Despite the size difference, her sense of smell truly did match a tracker dog's as she lowered her head to get a better look and scent of their guest. Pausing for a moment, the cogs in her mind were lucidly turning as she analyzed her findings. It felt so familiar to her, but was it really the same person? For most of her life, she's been caged in Imaginary Space. With the cycle of her life starting and restarting due to Huge Scale and Infantile Regression, the resulting madness made her memories all jumbled. This person smelled similar to her, so they must be one of her sisters, but... Her instincts were telling her otherwise. There was something not adding up, something wrong... ".........Why are you a penguin?"

@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach @Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae

"Are you fooling for the parka disguise really? I suppose it is difficult to recognize the great Lambda when she is in her full disguise." With that the woman leapt into the air, preforming a drill like pirouette, spinning at least ten times before landing down as her spike-like heels sunk into the ground, causing cracks to form in the icy earth beneath as she stood near the two. "I'd refrain from trying to squish me, oaf. It will end poorly for you should you succumb to Envy of great Lambda enough to lash out like so." Adjusting her sunglasses, the mysterious servant glanced between the two women before finally resting a hand on her hips. "A penguins natural environment is the Arctic." She finally remarked as two ~~penguins~~ Leviathans begun to belly slide around a short distance behind her. "That isn't the case for either of you. Are you fans of freezing yourselves off in these temperatures? Is that your reason for lingering here?" @Fox/Wilt/[pending]/Wu/Lae @Nommyuks

9:05 PM

And so, Morgan calmly stood outside Chaldea. Wearing an elegant dress befitting someone of her former station as Queen of all the Fae. A black dress with her long beautiful white hair flowing in the cold wind that blew in the morning. The warmth of the sun, when was the last time she felt it? She has been stuck in this facility that felt no different to her palace.. "And to think so much sacrifice humans are willing to do just to see this sun again..."

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

It was still a decently chilly where they were but the sun helped out a lot. He had a jacket on him as he went along with Morgan who was in a dress. The two savoring the sun and a job well done of Chaldea. A good feel to get this back again.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Looks like you are here Master. Then let us begin shall we?" She would then tap her staff down to the ground, utilizing her territory creation to make a sort of shelter for both of them. Befitting a king. Lavish designs of western architecture in terms of it. And finally a table for two alongside two chairs. And there she would summon the food she has so carefully made in that hour. "I believe humans call this a clubhouse sandwhich?" And there she would conjure a mage hand to pour them both a cup of fresh, hot earl grey tea. She would offer him one of the sandwhiches which was a plateful inbetween their side of the table.

2:06 PM

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

2:06 PM

(Morgan has expertise on Cooking)

That was very much a sandwich..and a shelter as well for the both of them to relax in with him moving in it. He collected the sandwich and nom'd on it. And it was very good! And tea as well. Sandwich, tea, sun and a breeze on them. "Very good sandwich."

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Admittedly, it is my first time cooking just for the sake of it. Rather than doing it with an end goal in mind. But from the looks of it. You are rather pleased with the end result. As anticipated. Have as much as you desire Master. If you tire of it, I have prepared other dishes." Remarked the queen towards the mystic code crafter. Placing one of her leg atop her right. Taking one of the sandwiches she would take a bite and indulge in this light meal of theirs.

2:16 PM

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"That it is. The culinary arts is something I also consider a craft. So being able to enjoy others work has the same merits as this. Thank you." He gives the Queen her praise for the meal she did. Both of them having a moment of eating sandwiches.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

After a while where the two ate. Morgan would take a sip of her hot tea before turning her attention to her master. It is probably pointless asking such a question. As she knew Chaldea would have another major threat after this. But nonetheless, her curiosity got the better of her in the end. "Master, if you do not mind me asking, what is it that you plan to do after Chaldea? Once you have saved the world from it's dangers?"

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"I do not, this was such a big deal and the fact it was pulled off successfully I am not sure what I will be doing after this. I suppose the same thing I have done the past few years and continue to progress of Crafting and assist Chaldea with their needs." Monta said idly as he ate another sandwich.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

How strange, why did she smile inside when she heard such words? Then again, at any time she may easily cut herself away from Chaldea's summoning system and bind herself to Monta essentially. As she does still need a mana source. Should Chaldea finish their mission. She could easily leave, once she has a mana source. Explore the new world. "I see, perhaps you may wish to explore the world you have helped save. See it's people and culture. All the while selling your wares."

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"That is most likely a goal, after checking up on my family I shall travel the world and see all culturionary forms of the artisan crafts." Travel the world, sell his wares, improve his craft. Best of all worlds

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Your talents would be wasted at an organization. You are more suited at a freelancer, selling your wares at said organization is more profitable. I believe you already have connections with most if not all of them do you not Master? Then which means you have something worth more than currency." Remarked the forward thinking berserker towards her master once again. "Hmm, I might consider accompanying you to the outside world."

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

He thought on it. He has made some friends in different factions and most likely could all out a good word for him if needed. "You are free to come along as well. Probably for the better if I am able to have my servants with me along the way."

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Normally servants are not capable of being away from Chaldea. But I am the sole exception to such a rule. Chaldea's rayshifting and summoning systems may look rather special. But look at it from a certain angle and it is rather simple. Even my Pan Human self figured it out in a single night. I can easily cut myself off from it. However, I would require a source of mana afterwards. Which will be you, master." "And do you think Olga Animusphere would agree to such?"

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"All of that is way above my sense of knowledge. With Rayshifting. Perhaps there still a use for me here so my trip all over once Chaldea deems it that there is enough peace and no more threats to humanity." He said as he paused on eating another sandwich for a moment. And after that moment resumed eating.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Then perhaps your contributions might help in convincing Olga Marie Animusphere in letting go of me. You have been rather useful overall to Chaldea's missions after all. And from there you might build a good arguement, would you not agree?" Remarked the queen of the fae towards Monta before taking a bite of her meal.

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"I shall see. She will probably wave it off or ask me a magus related question and be like.. But Monta if you don't know that how can you make sure Morgan won't cause trouble. Or something like that "

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Tell me the questions and I shall tell you the answers if that happens. After all, masters and servants share a connection. And if she refuses well, I shall simply cut myself off from Chaldea's summoning system entirely and join you. Not even Chaldea is capable of severing a contract once that happens."

3:41 PM

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

.... Rest assurance aside he wasn't all too keen on the idea of one of his servants being cut off. "Noted." He said back eating his last sandwich for now and idling under the sun.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Well, that is for the future. Who knows if we might even survive the journey ahead? But that is what makes human life exciting isn't it? Venturing forward in the road ahead. Unsure of your own destination. Best to enjoy the present."

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"Best to enjoy the present." He repeated her, laying on his back now. This could be considered a much needed break from the crafting life and the antics within Chaldea itself. As of now quality bonding time with his servant.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

Lingering in the wastelands. Watching the snow fall once again in silence. Theano took a moment to linger and reflect before reaching into her bible and ripping free two pages- unleashing a flurry of black keys up into the air. Soon enough, she tossed in a second volley- causing them all to collide mid air only to utter a few quick words... "Set." With that they all came to a pause, her eyes darting to the side before redirecting the black keys with a flicker of her finger- causing them all to land just to the right. Not too long ago she would have believed such mastery to be out of her reach. Her fingers gently twined trough her scarf as she stopped to think- consider and finally sit down. Unfurling the scarf out in front of her and drawing pattern after pattern upon it's material with her fingertip. Sending a small surge of power she activated her magic circuits- allowing her prana to surge trough it and causing nearby snow to melt. Eventually however, she came to a sudden pause... "Assassin." She spoke quietly, she could sense his presence by her even now. Always lingering wasn't he? @Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

Indeed. He's always lingering. He speaks to his Master without exposing his body, opting to remain invisible. "Master."

"I've had a question I wanted to ask of you. I'm not sure how much longer we have together now that the world is seemingly peaceful. Truthfully I've already begun to consider leaving Chaldea behind. There is little point to me staying around in the arctic when nothing is occurring after all." She noted before slowly letting loose a sigh. "What made you become a counter guardian?"

"..." It's a blur really. He barely remembers. "To Continue my Work." Even in life, his profession was Murder. To save the majority was to kill the minority.

". . . Can you please elaborate? I'd like to understand."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"to put it simply, My whole life was spent saving as many people as I could. When I was offered to be a Counter Guardian I saw no reason to refuse the offer." "There's not much more to it." He's more talkative than usual, huh?

". . . So you did it to save people. I've seen you at work long enough to know you understand the meaning of that better than my sister ever did. Still..." With that Theano picked up her scarf. Wrapping it around her neck and tucking herself in for warmth just a bit. "Was it worth it? If you had to make that choice again, would you do it?" @Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

..He appeared. "I'm not enough of a Person to answer that properly. The Person that is me died much earlier than my Body did."

Clearing some snow beside her, Theano reached into her cloak and pulled out a small blanket- tossing it on the ground as if to invite him to sit down. ". . . How so, Assassin? Has something happened to make you feel that way or was it more of a slow process?"

"..." How unnecessary. * *But he'll oblige and take a Seat. "I don't remember. It's not very important when it comes to fulfilling my duties. I kill, I don't do much else."

3:47 PM

"I am pretty sure I've been like this ever since I was a Teen."

"We're both killers. I can somewhat understand where you're coming from. My first kill in the Singularity wasn't easy either. Still..." With that Theano paused for a long moment, glancing over to Emiya before letting out a soft sigh. "To view oneself as more of a tool than a person is a sad fate. Even if an Understandable one."

"I discarded my Humanity to become a Tool for Justice. I am rarely allowed this much freedom under the Counter Force."

". . . A tool of justice. Well, that's the answer I've been searching for." She noted before simply smiling a little, her eyes half-lidded and heavy as she stared at the ground."I don't ever intend to trade my afterlife away to serve the Counter Force. However I always wondered what drives people to serve it. I've seen it's effects on others- as have you seen them on yourself." She noted before finally shaking her head. "I appreciate your work, Assassin. However short our time together had been I am quite happy to have been able to meet you."

"...." "Is this about your Sister?"

"My curiosity was initially driven by it yes." Theano answered simply and straight to the point. "Why do you ask?"

"...I was just trying to hold a Conversation." For once. He figured he might as well try it. "I don't think she'll end up like me, if you're worried about it." He's being nice.

"She ended up worse but it was her choice, just like it was your own. She became insane and driven by her own idea of justice- a common theme with you Counter Guardians as it would seem. However..." With that Theano paused, smiling and chuckling to herself for just a moment. "That doesn't mean all of you apply it the same way. It's quite odd to see but I suppose it is human nature."

"..That's right. The Counter Force is made up by the Will of Humanity. It's no surprise that it's very human in nature."

"Problem with eternal service is that unless you throw away your humanity, you will break under it. At least that's what I've seemed to notice. That's why you adjusted better than her. That's why you continue to be yourself despite it all. You went into it thinking you're not a person and that's how you remained one. The ability to distance yourself is important- at least that's what it seems like to me." She noted before finally picking up her black keys and putting them back into her tome. "I suppose I'm not that much different. I do serve the church after all."

"I suppose so.. The Church tends to be a lot more trigger happy." "Well, I'm no expert on it."

"Depends on the agent. You are not incorrect though."

Finally, the girl stood up. "Thank you, Emiya. I'll be heading off now. I still have a few people to see."

"Understood." "I'll return to my duties." Vanishing from Sight once more, the Assassin is back to his natural state.

Lingering. Watching the snow fall. How long as it been? Time... ...has somewhat lost it's meaning while she was here. Pain. Suffering. Vindication. The time she had spent in the singularity had changed her. Penthsilea claims she became a warrior. Ciel believes that she had become someone capable of protecting the world. Yet, lingering in the snow... Theano couldn't help but to think of her own conclusion.

With all that she seen, all that she experienced. All that she dealt with... She felt bitter. Despite accepting her circumstances and understanding the weight of the legacy placed upon her, the path she had chosen... The road she walks. The bitterness remains. Bitterness towards never achieving her goals of spending time with her sister. Annoyance towards Desponia, despite having the opportunity to grow closer and bury the hatchet they never managed to do it. Chances are-- They never will. The sour taste towards magi- seeing them abuse others for their benefit time and time again without remorse. Distaste towards people for judging her for things they had no means of understanding- utilizing incomplete views to cast judgement upon herself. Pause... Her Sister's Love. Ciel's support and Care. Lucius's Trust and Comradery. The bitterness she felt was not just because of the experiences she had come to experience here, was it? No. It was because of how she felt all this time. Weak. Helpless. Hateful. Endlessly in Pursuit. Perhaps these feelings are natural. Yet, the hatred and bitterness she feels-- it's aimed at herself is it not? Perhaps we are more alike than we think you two.* *To extend one's hand and reach for a goal. What happens when one achieves that which they had been searching for and realizes... Their entire goal was a tool, not an act that required it.

10:43 AM

Linger. Breathe... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The chill was relaxing. The sensation of her fingers going numb in the cold. The gentle light-headedness as she held her breath in for too long. The end goal didn't matter. The bitterness and frustration she feels-- That's a part of being alive isn't it? There is no contentment, just the desire to reach another goal. When you climb a peak that once loomed over you, you seek another mountain- a higher point to reach to push yourself to your limit.

10:47 AM

Letting out a soft laugh, Theano smiled a little as she gazed into the horizon. Maybe Ciel is right. I need to find a hobby and relax perhaps just a little more. Cheer up. Chin up. Stand proud. The voice at the back of her head nagged her just a bit more. This strict self-control had gone on for too long. If her sister was foolish and headstrong- she swung too far back the other direction. Emotionlessness and muting of one's own feelings and emotions was just as bad as acting upon them rashly.

10:53 AM

Yeah... She was entrusted not only with power but hope too. Hope for a better future. Desire others had to see her happy. . . . "Goddamnit Lucius. You had to rub off on me didn't you?" She let out a chuckle. "Leaving me a tool to carve forward a path trough life- a blade you've used against it's original purpose of life. A blood stained flower. You didn't even think about it did you?" Watching the horizon, Theano finally pulled out her phone. She would carve her path into the future as well, no matter what other's think. After all, she'd be a disappointment to them all if she was a miserable mope.

10:53 AM

Typing away the message, she'd send it. Were leaving in two hours. Be ready. With that, she'd let herself linger. Watching the snow flicker in the light. @Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

10:57 AM

How did she get his number? She stole it of course. It's easier than asking.

"Nani?! My number!" He wondered how Fee managed to grab hold of it! He only assumed it was Theano as it mentioned the time they were going to leave. Thankfully he was somewhat good to go. He said his good byes to the friends that was still alive. And did a few silent moments in front of the Wall of the fallen for Nagato and Fie for they were missed dearly. And gave a hug and snug to two out of three of his servants. Trying that on Red Baron was a violation of common sense. Finally Theano could see Monta, with winter clothes equipped making his way to her.

@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

"Ah. You're early. I wasn't expecting to see you for a little while." Theano noted, glancing back to face Monta before offering him a smile. "We will be departing via boat. I've already made sure to book one, it will be small but cosy. Helicopter was an option however I'm not sure if it's a wise idea considering current affairs." With that note Theano stood up. "I hope you're ready for the departure. The journey should take about a day or so." With that Theano closed her eyes quietly. @Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"Yosh!" He called out as he made his way to her. "Best to be early. I did everything I wanted to take care of before heading off." He said as he had his handy backpack on his shoulder. That was all he brought with him when he originally came to Chaldea. "I'm as ready as I can be. Travel and sightsee and everything else in between."

@Andle | Cam, Ib, Rach

"Understandable really. I will be tinkering with my equipment mostly during our journey. Still, I don't suppose you'd be against a few games of cards?"

"I'm a decent expert in the means of the game sets! I'm sure that's a artisan skill somewhere in the world!" He chined. He did take a moment and looked down at the back of his hand and see his command seals still there. But from what he was told the reactor will turn off and they would all head back to the throne. A small exhale coming out of him.

". . ." Noticing the motion, Theano closed her eyes. "Chaldea will close down soon. These command seals are ultimately just a means to use the reactor. I believe they will vanish the moment it cuts them off. "

"I don't like it. But I am not versed in politics outside the basics. Especially any politics that includes magus. And I am going to miss them." "Defenders and protectors of humanity, being shut down after the mission is completed." He mused.

"Discarded like tools. Welcome to the Moonlit world, Monta." Theano noted, shaking her head. "We need to find our own path going forward I suppose. Doesn't make it easy though."

"What you mean. I think it will be a tad bit easy. I got you in this trip and you got me. That bumps down the difficulty a bit by like..two l." He said, giving a idle fist bump on her shoulder. "I feel the safest with Chaldea and disbanded or not. You are part of it. So my safety is gonna be in your hand and I shall do my best to watch your back." This is a normal trip but if it comes to it. Yosh!

"I suppose I can guarantee your safety yes." Theano nodded, she then paused...

12:58 PM

"In fact, since I do trust you..."

12:59 PM

"Ancile." With that- a shield unfolded from a bracelet on Theano's hand. A large bronze shield adorned with eight circular patterns.

And with that Crafter mode as he was already looking at the shield from multiple angles and checking the status and quality. It was exceptional! Really good at that. "Is it divine?" He wondered

"Divine in origin yes. It's Ancile, the original one. Shield of Mars- God of War and the Symbol of Rulership over Rome. There were twelve copies made, I have acquired the original."

"That certain beats out anything I have made in my line of work. Good job." He said as he gave Theano a few claps in praise. Divine beats out any type of Modern era creations.

"Mystery is a big factor. However had you lived in times long gone I'm certain you'd be able to produce something to rival it." With that Theano smiled. "Regardless, I'll let you have a close look at it later."

"Mystery is a fickle thing.." He said with a pout. Well at least he will be able to see it. For his path to crafting is eternal. He let's out a confirmed 'Yosh' on being able to see it later on.

"Items you've created served me well. Few would ever replace them- the fact I did is more of a fluke than it is a rule. Even then, I still use multiple of them." With that she showed a ring on her finger. Ring of the Stranger- his creation.

That was certainly his ring that he made her. He has made a lot. He knows of everything item he has made during his stay here. The ring accumulated it's history with Theano and it will perhaps one day achieve something in the future. That made him happy.

With a nod, Theano offered a smile to Monta. "Don't judge yourself by the standards of these out of your reach. Build yourself up on your achievements and values not that what others have done. Perhaps it's a bit hypocritical of me to say that but it's the truth. As for yourself- You are probably the finest craftsman alive. This does not mean you won't reach greater heights in the future. Do you think you wouldn't be able to craft a powerful weapon- a magnum opus given good enough materials? Because I believe you would be able to."

"I shall make me something befitting of my name sake! I dont know where my sibling is with her crafting but I aim to be the best crafter in the world. And I know I still got a long way to go." That was the long term goal, have his mystic codes be in the top tier which he keeps doing his stay here that is very feasible.