Chaldean Chronicles: Cadence of the Lostgrail

Out in the fields, the tremors seem to finally have calmed down. 

The group that left to meet Flora returns to see the villagers there with the other Servants who stayed with the tribe.

@Game Ping 2

(am I awake or still down?)

Francis and Veronica are unconscious)

The bloody soldier stirred but did not wake, twitching at silent nightmares

These earthquakes happened when they did in your game by the way)

Lucius made his way back to the village after there mission ended in failure and near death carrying the unconscious soldier

After a while, Epona returns, a little more sullied by dirt.

"The village is destroyed," she says. "But the earthquake has stopped for now."

She looks through the people sitting in the field, wondering what to tell them.

"..."

"Are there any other village or settlements nearby we can relocate the villagers to?"

Erik would arrive with Epona, having assisted her with her task as he waits to see how all this is going to play out. How would they continue to live like this if these quakes were norma;l

"No, none. This was the only village that survived this long."

Epona looks at the unconscious Servant and Master Lucius brought.

"What about you? Are you alright?"

@Sophie, Mary, Nito, Gorgon, Boud (edited)

"The Chaldean and Archer need healing, they are stable but are unconscious." "Flora is gone, we managed to get her to agree to remove Ruler's blessing but before we could all return to the Village he attacked us. Flora Sacrificed themselves to protect everyone else." Lucius spoke with with frustration in his voice, they were back at square one and he failed to get everyone out of there and even using his Divine blessing he was unable to do anything to help hold off Ruler only being save due to Flora "I'm fine."

Erik walked over to the downed Master and expended the last of his Lay on Hands to at least bring her to consciousness.

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat +5 hp to veronica

The Master stirred after she was healed. Returning to Conciousness, she looks confused as she looks around. "...Ah?"

"Welcome back to the land of the awake. Are you ok?" Erik said as he stood up and took a step back to give the other Master space. He continued looking around to see what else he could do to help currently. He had only just rayshifted in and was already in a crisis situation

"..Yeah, I'm fine. Is Flora..?" She does not spot the Servant she had contracted with. Looking at the faded Seals on her hand she frowns. She must have have failed then, if Flora isn't here.

Epona just listens for a while.

"..."

So they suffered losses too. 

"I commend your bravery."

She addresses the crowd of people.

"All of you have been through a lot, but you can't let this defeat us."

They're still breathing. They can live to fight another day. And most importantly, without his blessing, it might be possible to beat Ruler.

"We'll rebuild. At least for tonight, we'll make new shelter. If everyone works together, we can at least keep warm."

"Well I'm going to be here for a while. We will talk eventually. Point me where I can start moving stuff and I will get to work hauling whatever materials we might still be able to use from the ruins. I may not be the best at some things, but I am at least physically strong." Erik says with a sigh, all the built up heat and anger in his blood having dwindled due to the quakes and need to help others. He just wanted to be useful now.

Muramasa was looking at the group, before silently moving toward the still wounded citizen and help them clean their wounds.

Epona immediately begins work on making shelter for the tribe people. 

Later in the evening, she speaks to Erik after he's been helping too.

"You. What's your name again?"

@StarryCleric (edited)

"Erik. Erik Odinson. I have... a complicated family tree. I have read your name in the reports, but I'd like to hear it from you yourself." He says, seeming more calm for now, he would continue helping for now, but he would have to rest eventually. He was only human.

"My name is not important, but you can call me Epona."

"..Thank you for helping."

She briefly looks at him before she continues to focus on her task.

"What do you want to know?"

"Well... When did you get this power? And how does it feel?" He simply asks at first, deciding not to overload her with questions for now. Finding out how she got into her situation would be nice. "And did you always have the horns?"

"I only have Surtr's power through being his vessel. I'm sorry to disappoint, but aside from having his memories, I don't know anything about him."

She ignores the question about her horns.

"I don't know why me and Surtr have this kind of connection, but it doesn't matter. If I can use his powers to be strong, then I accept it."

4:22 PM

@StarryCleric

"Oh... I thought...." Erik sighed. He wasn't exactly the best at being a Master, he hadn't checked if she was a Servant or not. He had just assumed she was a normal resident here empowered by Surtr. "I see...." He seemed pretty downtrodden about the realization. He was hoping to find a real connection to his ancestor but instead found another version of the vessel he already was contracted to. "You are actually another Hero brought here to deal with this place. I had... assumed incorrectly you were actually a resident here. You cared so much for the people... I'm sorry. Perhaps you interacting with another more direct Vessel of his power may get us to summon forth his visage or something but...." he seemed a bit more pessimistic on the idea that he could find a connection here now, but he continued his tasks nonetheless

The last part makes her turn to him again. 

"You think so..?"

"..."

"I am curious about the Surtr you know, but..."

She can't just put her own interests forward like that when there's more important things to worry about.

The evening draws to an end.

@StarryCleric

"Well. She should be coming in soon since I'm here. I'd hope she would come and meet someone else hosting the power." he says with a huff, he was exhausted from a full day of labor, having put even more work on himself as he was trying to compensate with the one thing he was actually proud of, his body. He felt like he wasn't contributing currently, but he was also comparing himself to some people who could probably fight gods. "I need to rest... My mortal flesh can only go so far. I'm sorry I can't do more." He says, lowering his head a bit

Some of the women take Epona out of Veronica's arms and carry her to one of the beds that have been made the night before. Like Muramasa said, because of everyone's hard work, there were houses to rest in.

The others look at the group expectantly, but too saddened to say anything, as if they're waiting for something.

@Game Ping 2

Erik looks over the women and children looking up at them. His body was tired and wounded, emotionally exhausted, mentally exhausted. They had a hard fought battle "Remus is dead! Through the sacrifices of many, the giant snake Jormungandr lays slain! In an unexpected turn, your leader Epona was purged of the vile influences of Surtr and now lays free of his influence! This day is our victory, but at a cost."

"..."

They look at each other, emotionally exhausted from seeing so few who left return. They're also confused by what Erik says about Surtr, not really understanding what he's talking about. "What do you mean, vile influences?"

"The Surtr within her was filled with rage and hatred. As soon as it could, it attempted to lash out against everyone and destroy everything. It was a dangerous power that she is now free of that may have harmed her in the future. The fires of Muspelheim are dangerous, and those who wield them can easily be corrupted by them. She is free of that now. She is alive and free." He says, he is holding back his own pain. He lost his own Surtr, and he carries that burning blood in his own veins. He knows of its influence and its rage.

Veronica herself had decided to tend to Epona's wounds, if she's allowed. She wasn't the best public speaker, and she had a lot on her mind.

Lucius decided it would be best to handle the patrols for the others, they all deserved some time to rest after what had just happened and he needed time to calm down

Ortlinde decided to follow Lucius, she would hover a bit in the air as she decided to join him. "Greetings Saber, I thought I would join you in patrolling if you don't mind. Patrols are best done in pairs in case something happens." said the Valkyrie as she would give him a soft smile.

"Greetings Lancer, feel free to join me then. I will not turn down your company." Lucius turned to respond to Valkyrie "I doubt anything will come close to the village at this moment in time, especially after those tremors and the flames of the giant but it would be best to ensure nothing that stayed behind bothers the Masters and injured villagers. "

The understanding that none of the men are coming back and that they have nothing to mourn them finally sets in for good.

"Thank you," a younger girl says.

Slowly, more words of gratitude are said. The meaning and value of how far everyone went for these people isn't lost on them.

@StarryCleric

Epona's dress is torn and her body is badly bruised, but she's still a Servant. The emptiness of what Surtr's powers once filled is vast, and the fumes of her magical energy run low, but she won't die. Through Veronica's medical assistance, she'll only need more rest before she can regain her consciousness.

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

Veronica lets out a sigh of relief. At the very least she managed to save one. She just sits there, in the wounded Servants hut. The Weight of her Loss finally properly catching up to her. The Feeling of failure is like an Anchor that prevents her from leaving. Maybe she's just scared of facing everyone like this, two Servants were lost. She could have saved them, if she was just closer.

Erik looked at the people, sorrow and regret in his eyes. He wished he could have done more for them. He had only been here a day, if he had been here sooner maybe he could have helped more and stopped all this. Dwelling on it wouldn't help, he knew that, but the pain was still there "We will be erecting a memorial and burial site where they fell, we have collected what items we could for them to be remembered by. I... am sorry." Erik bowed his head to the remaining tribes people.

"Thank you Lucius. I also forgot to introduce myself properly. As you know, I am a Valkyrie but my name specifically is Ortlinde." said the Valkyrie as she was glad that she could go on patrol with him. "Perhaps but like the old saying, better safe then sorry." said Ortlinde as would stay in the air and continue to help Lucius patrolling the area. "You know before I was command sealed in, I was spending time with my older sister. We had recently fought some harpies and dragons. Perhaps after we rest, would you consider coming their with me? After what you did, we could use your help there."

"Hah dragons huh?" Lucius let out a slight laugh after hearing the mention of Dragons, perhaps I should see how a real dragon compares to him? Lucius thought to himself "I wouldn't mind coming along with you and lending a hand then, let me know you are heading out and I'll come with."

The Valkyrie would continue to follow Lucius, keeping an eye out for any possible threats. Though from time to time, she would glance back at Lucius. Ortlinde would then nod her head as Saber spoke. "I think once we have finished resting and helping out, I will get one of the casters to teleport us. Hopefully we can work together and take down the giant just like the others." said Ortlinde as a smile appeared on her face. "These dragons that I fought, they tended to use poison and even attack the mind. Though my older sister said their was a real dragon, one far more powerful."

Lucius took a moment to theorise about how to best deal with a creature of that level mumbling to himself as he walked "Mental attacks huh? I have a skill that should help with that, it means we would have to stay close together however it might also make us an easier target for a breath attack since we would be grouped up, what do think Ortlinde?" Lucius turned his head to look at Ortlinde as he spoke

"Together?" said Ortlinde a bit surprised. Unknown to her, her face would turn a bit red. Though she would quickly return to a serious look. "Yes, that sounds like a good idea. Even though we may get hit by several of their breathes, we can endure it. Better to take some damage then for one of us to fall." said Ortlinde as she then nodded her head in agreement. "I also have some runes that protect versus poison. So the weapons are not too effective versus me. Though if required, I can transfer the runes."

"I must thank you for your offer but I think my Armour should help protect me from its breaths, I'd rather you use them to keep yourself protected" Lucius checked his armour, thankfully as a servant is was easy to repair and the stop where rulers lance had pierced through had already repaired itself "I'll check with some of the Casters myself as well and see if they can make anything which could help."

"I understand. Thank you." said Ortlinde as she was glad that Lucius was actually thinking about her. She was also confident that someone like him would be able to handle the dragon breath. The others had, so their was no reason someone like him couldn't. "That does sound like a good idea. Perhaps something similar to my rune. It is important to come to a battle prepared." said Ortlinde as she continued to scout around. "Tell me Saber, how many battles have you gone into while in Chaldea? For me, this is my first singularity." said the Valkyrie. She was curious about Lucius.

"I have been present in Chaldea since the 3rd Singularity with this being my third, French, Chinese and now the German Singularities " Lucius rubbed his chin as he tried to remember the exact number. "I believe somewhere above fifteen or so, it has gotten hard to keep an accurate record of them without checking the missions reports and Some have been more difficult than others."

The Valkyrie would listen as Saber explained that this was his third singularity and that he had been in over a dozen missions. It seemed he truly was a veteran, even among the heroic spirits. "You truly a veteran, I will try to learn from your example." said Ortlinde as she gave a smile to Lucius before she continued with her patrol. "Things seem quiet, I am going to get a bit of rest then I am going to ask the caster to teleport me. Take care Saber, it is an honor to fight by your side."

"In that case, I wish you a good night Thank you for assisting with the patrol." *Lucius also felt a bit tired he should probably call in a night soon as well, he did one last patrol before going to rest as well."

Alex would be wandering the fields. He had been assisting the Tribes people in keeping them safe and well fed after their homes were destroyed. He hadn't been able to go on recent missions for a variety of reasons, and felt bad that he couldn't be there to help in them. He could at least be there to support those who came back as he searched out for his girlfriend after all this chaos to see how she is doing after all this.

12:38 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

Veronica would probably be found on the outskirts of the small encampment they had set up here, she frequently goes to check on Epona, she's fairly worried after all. Though, at the moment she is just kind of sulking by herself. Sitting there, reflecting on her failures. She had been a bit distant recently.

12:49 PM

@StarryCleric

Alex would walk up and sit down next to her, handing her a cookie and wrapping an arm around her shoulder "Hey. How you doing?" He would say in a caring voice, clearly concerned for her and worried and wanting to make her feel even a bit better.

12:52 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Ah." She was surprised, she didn't even notice Alex approach. It took her a bit, but the frown she had on her face slowly turned into her regular smile. Though, Alex could probably tell that it wasn't real. "I'm all good. What about you? ..and thanks for the Cookie." She'll eat it. Honestly, something sweet was just what she needed right now

12:59 PM

@StarryCleric

"Hey, its ok, its ok to let it out. I can tell... you aren't good." He takes out another cookie, this one looked a bit special. "I made this one specifically in case the mission went badly. I'm just glad I'm not the one eating it alone." He offers it to her, rubbing her shoulder slightly.

1:04 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"...Lyta is.." ..She takes the Cookie. Yes, Lyta is gone. She failed to protect her Servant. "..I couldn't protect anyone. Two of us died and Epona almost did too."

Alex squeezes her shoulder as she says that. If she ate the cookie, it would be amazing, but also seem to have a somewhat calming effect. Whatever he put in that cookie seemed to be in case of suffering loss. He must have been really worried about her while she was away. "I'm sure she is proud of you, no matter what. And you can also look at it this way, only two died. I'm sure you were helpful in keeping the rest alive. You are only one woman. No matter how much we wish to be more, our arms can only reach so many." He rests his head against her's in a comforting manner.

1:14 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"No I.. I could have saved her. I know I could have. I was so close! ...so close." ...She just wasn't good enough yet. But will she ever be? She's just staring at the cookie, she can't even smile now. She doesn't feel like she deserves this comfort, yet she still seeks it.

"We lose a lot of things in life. The loss of someone so great and important is... painful. We have each other still, and you have Valkyries. We are only mortal. We can still get stronger to try and prevent it from happening again." He would try and continue to give her comfort, he knew the pain of losing people he cares about.

1:27 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"You're.. right. I need to be stronger. I can't let this happen again." Sitting out for a singularity was nice, yes taking a break feels nice, yes but if this is the result then she shouldn't take anymore until it is over. "..I can't."

@StarryCleric

"I believe in you. Just get stronger and keep working. Maybe one day I will be able to catch up with you.: He whispers a bit. He knew she was powerful and that she didn't think she was. He had been working to try and catch up to her strength in many ways, but he still felt he was just a bit behind. "I will always love you no matter what."

1:55 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"...." She didn't deserve this. These kind words. "Thank you." but it doesn't matter. Lyta wouldn't want her to sit around like this. "Y-..you too." Still.. it's just embarrassing to say that stuff outloud. Out here especially, who knows who could be within earshot? Well, it doesn't matter right now as she just hugs the Boy. Just a little bit longer, a little bit more comfort.

2:11 PM

@StarryCleric

Alex returns the hug and lightly strokes her back to help comfort her further. He doesn't say any further words as they enjoy this moment together, holding her close. He relaxes with her here, he was very happy she was still alive at least. He had been scarred of being left behind again, but this time he had the power to hold her and comfort her.

2:20 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"..Once Epona wakes up I'm going to follow Lancer and Saber." Her Help wasn't really needed here anymore. She was no good at constructing anything. ..Although, she could go hunting for them but she's not even sure if they really need anymore food with Alex here.

"Do you want me to join you? I don't know if I should try and call for someone to teleport me to an area where they need more people or if I should try and help the people here get to a safer location." They seemed to be relatively safe here for now with the remaining people at this area, but they wouldn't be safe forever. Hopefully they could end the singularity before it became an issue, maybe within the next week or so.

2:32 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"..I don't know. It's going to be dangerous."

"Well, I want you to stay safe as well, but I also want you to be able to help out if you want to. I've always enjoyed being able to make a place for you to come back to, even if I can't be out there to help. I wouldn't want you worrying about me while you are in combat and overly trying to defend me. We are both plenty capable fighters by human standards..." He trailed off at the end there. Human standards just didn't seem to matter much anymore these days. Things were getting into the true territory of Heroes, and he still didn't think he matched up to them. "A-anyway, I would love to join you soon. I think I will just try and get these people to somewhere safe first."

2:39 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Mmh.. Don't worry. I'll come back safely. I wouldn't want to miss your food, after all." A Joke, yet true all the same. She couldn't eat regular rations ever again. "..Maybe I'll stay until everyone here is safe for sure. Then we can go together."

Alex smiled a bit, he was happy that Veronica was willing to stay with him for even a bit longer despite her probably being able to assist people at the other locations. "You know.... Ah nevermind, just a silly thought crossed my mind." He said, suggesting he was thinking of something "Hopefully we can get them moving soon. Camping out is fine for a while, but having a proper roof over their head will probably help them. The memorial got finished and I think people will be done paying their respects soon."

2:50 PM

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"...could.. you come to the memorial with me later?" She hasn't been there yet. She should have gone there sooner. But she couldn't. She is curious about what this silly thing is that he was thinking about but she won't pry.

"Of course. We can go whenever you are ready." He could give her a soft kiss on the cheek after he said that, a final gesture to comfort her in this hard time. He wished he had some token he could offer Hippolyta at the memorial, but he had not talked to her enough or gotten to know her enough. He had regrets, but he would save those for the Memorial.

Ah. She buried her Face in his chest. How could he attack her like this when her guard was down!? Now she's just flustered again.. well, at least she's cheered up a bit.

Alex smiled and held her there. Letting her hide herself from the embarrassment for now as he nuzzled into the top of her head. Her being embarrassed was better than her being depressed. He just wanted to make her a bit happier and help her through this difficult time

Veronica is waiting for someone. a Certain Necromancer had called her out to meet up with her nearby, so she is waiting at the appointed meeting point. It had been a while since she's seen her Teacher, she wonders what it could be that she needs. Though, likely it is for another lesson. Which comes at a good time now, Veronica has made many mistakes, she needs to improve herself even further. @Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

And soon, after about 30 minutes after her arrival. Veronica would be graced by said certain necromancer who called her to the meeting place. Wearing sunglasses, her typical outfit of a long knee length brown trench coat and a dress shirt with a black vest. And black derby shoes. She has the appearance of a noir detective save for the hat. "Early, good. Although, we are not here for lessons today. At least, not yet anyways. Glad to see you are well and alive Veronica. Come here."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"A-Ah..? Then why did you.." Well, she'll approach her teacher. She's not too sure why though.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

And at that moment, Veronica would be pulled into a rather gentle motherly embrace. A warm comfortable hug, not too tight or too lose. Just, enough. She could feel her teacher was somewhat anxious. Clearly worried for her. "I... am glad to see you are truly well after that experience. For a moment there, I was about to sacrifice Francis and all four of my command seals if it is what was needed.."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

Veronica was surprised, to say the least. It took a moment for her to process what was going on before she was able to return the embrace. "..Ah. I.. apologize. You used so many resources to keep me alive.." That's right. If it wasn't for Orphelia using her command seals on that day Veronica may very well be dead. She just wasn't strong enough.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Darling, Vee. You are worth more than a million or even a billion command seals in this world. I don't care about something easily replacable, for you are not replacable. You are my student, and someone I cherish. Do not think for a second I would consider these red magical sigils on my hand more valuable.." Orphelia declared with certainty and a serious tone to her voice to hammer in she was truly saying the truth and no lies. After a while, she would pull away from her student. A sigh of relief would escape from her lips.

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"If I had been more competent you wouldn't have had to do anything in the first place..!" Command Seals don't come back anymore, She knows this. They're trump cards, and yet she has none left anymore. She even got another one from Alex and used that one too. She had been so wasteful..

"If you die, I wouldn't have been able to live with myself knowing there is something that could be done. Veronica, my student. There are some things you must sacrifice, it doesn't matter whether you are strong or weak at that situation. As a human, we are naturally weaker than heroic spirits. So please, value your life. If not at least think of me, and your lover. What do you think we would feel if you died? Guilt. Most of all guilt and sorrow."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

...She's right. "..I'm sorry." She had been so stupid. Her life means something, she can't just use it so freely anymore now that she has people that need her.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"You can't die selfishly, my student. And neither can I or anyone else for that matter. Good grief, anyways. Let's just sit down shall we? I know there are some things you need to get off your chest and your expressions says as much." Orphelia explained to her student.

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"R-right.. Yes." Though, she feels bad about worrying everyone, She's not sure why they all worry. There is no reason to hide anything. Orphelia is her teacher, after all. "Hippolyta is.. gone. I failed to protect her in the last battle."

"The Rider class huh? The amazoness. I see. And you feel guilty. Although, most people tend to forget. The servants are summoned to protect us, masters. My student, what I am about to say may seem rude or even inconsiderate, but is the truth that most masters whk get attached to their servant forget." "They are already dead, once who lived in the Age of Gods but long gone. In a way, this summoning system is similar to necromancy i some ways. They can simply be summoned, and no doubt the next time you see her. She would be happy to see you are still alive."

7:35 AM

"She has done her role as a servant perfectly."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"I... I know that. But..!" She still feels sad. Like she just didn't try hard enough. "..I could have saved her. If I was just a bit stronger, a bit faster..!" Then maybe she would have managed to be next to her Servant, maybe she could have lessened the blows. But she just wasn't fast enough.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"I... I know that. But..!" She still feels sad. Like she just didn't try hard enough. "..I could have saved her. If I was just a bit stronger, a bit faster..!" Then maybe she would have managed to be next to her Servant, maybe she could have lessened the blows. But she just wasn't fast enough.

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump "Imagine if it were her that was still alive, and you were dead. Don't you think Hippolyta would think that is the case? If only she were faster? If only she were stronger she could have saved you? There is no use beating yourself up, over this. We all make mistakes, but. It is why I am here. I am here to be your teacher, to guide you to becoming a better mage. And by extent, I am here to listen to you as well." Orphelia would merely reach out and grasp Veronica's hand, before smiling. "You are as precious to me as my daughter."

"Imagine if it were her that was still alive, and you were dead. Don't you think Hippolyta would think that is the case? If only she were faster? If only she were stronger she could have saved you? There is no use beating yourself up, over this. We all make mistakes, but. It is why I am here. I am here to be your teacher, to guide you to becoming a better mage. And by extent, I am here to listen to you as well." Orphelia would merely reach out and grasp Veronica's hand, before smiling. "You are as precious to me as my daughter."

@Dr. Orphelia Maxwell Germi (@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria) - jump "If I had been by her side we would have both made it out.." At least, that is what she believes. "..I-I am..?" 'daughter', huh..? The last Person that had called her Daughter was abandoned for her Selfish desire of learning Magecraft. Was she really worth it to be equivalent to something like that?

"If I had been by her side we would have both made it out.." At least, that is what she believes. "..I-I am..?" 'daughter', huh..? The last Person that had called her Daughter was abandoned for her Selfish desire of learning Magecraft. Was she really worth it to be equivalent to something like that?

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump "Yes, you are. I don't care how the mage world sees it. In the end, you are precious to me and nothing and I mean nothing in this world would ever change that. You are a mage after all and there will come a day when you will go on your own. Whether to pursue the root or something else. It is up to you."

"I... I will do my best. So please don't worry anymore. I'm going to survive." She can't let down the people that care about her. Not again. They need her just as much as she needs them. She may have failed in the past but.. she just needs to keep trying. "..I'm sure Lyta wouldn't want me to throw my life away as well. For you, for Alex and for Lyta. I'll make sure I'll live."

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"You are my student after all, I know you will survive. Speaking of which, you have been busy a long while. And it is time I teach you your next lesson. You have grasped General Fundaments quite well, and your reinforcement is quite good. Now then, what do you want to learn now Veronica?" Orphelia asked Veronica with a smile on her lips as she slowly gor up from sitting on the ground, using prestidigitation to clean herself of dust and dirt.

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Er.. well.. Recently we went on a mission to disrupt the Bounded Field nearby that raised the Undead. Could.. you tell me how bounded fields work in more detail?"

"Bounded fields you say? That raised undead? That is a mixture of necromancy and bounded field making. Hmm, I suppose I can. Still, having a small room to teach you is preferal. But no matter. This place will do. Are you ready?"

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

Veronica nods. She is ready, of course. "Yeah. I'm ready."

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Then let us begin then Veronica. Let us start with the basics. What is a bounded field? Tell me the definition of a bounded field."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"It's.. like a Barrier, isn't it? It's effect vary but it's usually Territory set up by a Mage to have an effect on its sourroundings. Like an Alarm or something like that...?" Veronica still struggles, Studying wasn't her strong suit.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"It's.. like a Barrier, isn't it? It's effect vary but it's usually Territory set up by a Mage to have an effect on its sourroundings. Like an Alarm or something like that...?" Veronica still struggles, Studying wasn't her strong suit.

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump "Correct. It can be used offensively or defensively. A bounded field is a a set of place which a magus can set up to be their workshop or base."

"I see... The Field we found here was pretty modern. I think you might be able to.. read it better than I could."

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Modern magecraft you say? Well what I am about to teach you falls under modern magecraft theories. Anyways, listen up. I shall teach you to set up a basic bounded field. Use projection magecraft to make a small miniature room for me will you Veronica?"

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"I can't." She can't use that kind of Magecraft, it's beyond her. She's too specialized. Veronica looks down, she feels bad about it.

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Ah, how unfortunate. In which case I will simply use a spell to have the same result. What is that again? Ah! That's it. Deactivate your magic circuits Veronica."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"A-ah..? Deactivate them..?"

"Yes, deactivate them. Are you unaware? In which case, simply close your eyes and imagine your mental trigger but instead the opposite."

9:11 AM

"If yours is a glass breaking, then a glass being reformed."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"R..right." Is this a Good Idea? Technically speaking, this is still dangerous territory... Well, she'll trust her teacher anyway. She takes a deep breath as she reverses the process of activating her circuits. "There."

"You can merely activate your circuits easily. No problem. In which case.." Orphelia would merely cast an illusion spell over Veronica. And from behind her manifested a rather small doll house of sorts. And there were several materials.

...How very ominous. a Doll House? "What.. are you doing?"

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Am I interrupting?"

The familiar voice of the now awoken tribe's chieftain comes from behind Veronica.

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"A-Ah!?" Veronica jumped. She didn't pay attention to her surroundings at all. Per Instinct, she re-activated her Magic Circuits thinking they're in danger. Seeing that it's just the Chieftain she lets out a sigh of relief. "A-ah.. Epona, you're awake..? That's good. A-and it's fine." She's glad that She's finally awake, at least.

"Huh? Who are they Veronica?" Orphelia stops before merely glancing at the so called Epona. Unsure who they are as this is merely her first time talking to them.

"Ah... this is.. the Chieftan of the Bructeri Tribe. She's helped us a lot."

"Have I?"

Epona smiles.

"I was told you'd been treating me. I'm in your debt."

"A-Ah. No, no. I just.. did what anyone would have done."

"Nice to meet you Ms. Epona. I am glad to see you and my student has been getting along. She is quite the skilled one."

Epona nods. "She is."

"And you're another Master from Chaldea?"

"That I am, although I suppose it js not often I go into these places. I was worried about my student here, and I am glad she is safe."

"I see."

Epona can't help but be a little curious about what Chaldea is like outside of Singularities. 

"May I ask for your name?"

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Dr. Orphelia Maxwell Germi. I am a healer of the sick, if you need something to compare me by. And you are Epona are you not?"

"Yeah, that's my name."

She looks aside at that. 

"Mind if I borrow your student for a bit?"

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria @Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Hmm, as you wish. It appears you have some business to attend to Veronica. Go ahead."

"Ah?" What could she need Veronica for..?

"I shall remain here and wait."

"Alright then.." Veronica nods. She'll go along with whatever she's needed for.

"I heard you built graves for the fallen," Epona says. "I'd like to see them." @Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"..Ah. Yes, I helped build them. The Memorial site should be closeby." It should be just around over there..! Veronica gets moving to show Epona to the gravesite.

Seeing the group arrive with five Romans, the survivors of the Bructeri tribe are taken aback and a bit confused and some commotion starts.

@Game Ping 1

That's a lot of people... Hippolytus, almost instinctively, placed his hand on his bow and took a deep breath, glancing around at the various people of the tribe. But he stays silent and makes no sudden movements, simply standing by Veronica with his eyes darting around for possible dangers. He's a tad paranoid.

"Well, guess it's my turn." Muramasa release a sigh seeing the commotions. Knowing what the consequences of them bringing them here, he already in the front of the group. All of them are women and children, which mean he can't just do this physically. Thankfully, he just need to make sure one person to agree to them, and the rest should be able to follow.

After a while, even though she was at the memorial, the commotion reaches her and Epona arrives too to see what's happening. 

"What's the meaning of this?"

She frowns. 

"You didn't bring them here as prisoners, did you?"

@Game Ping 1

"..No, No. Of course not." Veronica shakes her head. "We brought them here to keep them safe..! Er, but.. not forever of course. We're going to send them somewhere else.."

With her expression alone, she looks somewhat betrayed, but she also seems pained about having to argue about this when she's actually relieved to see the group again.

"..Why?"

"..They don't want to fight anymore. They would have died out there. ..I'm sorry. I couldn't just leave them be-" Ah, wait. She asked Muramasa to explain this earlier..

"The war is over," Francis said grimly, "None of both of you have the strength to continue fighting. You'll just destroy each other in the end. And even if you do kill the other... what the hell are you left with? A broken land, a shattered spirit, and an empty soul. When war is over, don't spend it tearing at each other. That's how we suffered another one."

"..."

She looks over the Romans that were brought in, then at Francis and finally at Muramasa.

"Why didn't you tell me you wanted to do this?"

Muramasa shake his head. "I didn't, I just met them when they are about to leave and I just follow along. The lady probably just decided to help them when she saw them." "In the end, I'll have to support the Chaldean Master position. It's the jobs that pushed to me."

Francis shrugged, "Can't exactly leave a soldier who's no longer my enemy out to die. Their humiliation is enough punishment for what they wrought on this land. Living with the guilt and knowing the crimes they did to your people and many others will echo through eternity. I didn't see it appropriate to continue such retributive punishment."

10:37 AM

"Trust me, I carried the sins of my time for the rest of my life. And since I'm standing here not even death could forgive me for what I did. I doubt it'll be different for the Romans here. At least they have some time to try to make amends."

"..It was a.. Decision I made in the moment. They would be dead if we don't save them, so I figured it'd just be the right thing to do." Veronica looks down, she hates that she upset Epona but... ..She can't let another Person die when she could have helped them.

Yes... That was the eternal curse of heroic spirits. All your regrets, with you for eternity, never able to to do anything about it. But then... For humans, their lifespan was just as good as eternity, he supposed. His brow furrowed a bit, and his grip on his bow tightened, almost as a source of comfort.

Epona listens and then looks aside.

"I see."

"..It's not like I can do anything to stop you now."

She turns away to head back to the memorial.

"Just don't expect us to get along."

@Game Ping 1

"..I.." ..She wants to apologize, but she shouldn't. She's saving someone, and that's not something she will apologize for. Or at least, she shouldn't. "..Thank you." For letting them stay for now, anyway.

"We'll keep them away from the other camp." Muramasa said, content that she at least reasonable enough.

"I didn't expect you to. Just needed to know you wouldn't try to kill each of you off the bat," he looked at the Romans and pointed straight at them, "You, stay in line, help in recovery efforts, and don't even think about causing trouble. Or I'll deal with all of you personally. I gave you all a chance. I won't give you a second if you screw this up."

"It was simply the duty of a servant, nothing less. I wouldn't be a good soldier if I disobeyed orders would I?" Francis looked over his shoulder and shrugged. "That's how cowboys work I suppose. They wander around, never really finding their roots until they meet an unpleasant end. I can't say I don't understand him. Most of the time you're just running from the ghost of the past... and no matter what you do you know they'll catch up with you at the end."

8:56 AM

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

"Ghosts of the past? What an odd term to use on a necromancer. Well, I suppose it is applicable here. Most people just run, but little do they realize you simply have to accept what has happened. While it is easy for people like me, must be difficult for you isn't it Archer?" And with one overhead slash, the woman would slice apart the zombie, burning their corpse with the deadly flametongue weapon.

@TheInsanityThatLiesOutside

"There are just some things so terrible and heinous that all you can do is just keep running from them. You can accept what you did yet it will still chase you," he sighed. "And sometimes it seems that even after death the phantom persues."

@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

Veronica is.. approaching her Teacher and Archer once more..! She had just come back from a Mission, and she had totally forgotten to inform her Teacher of it. She feels bad about it. So she just quietly approached..!

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump And there, her attention would be captured by the approaching figure. After Veronica has came back. She would merely sheath her blade and tie it up at her side. A deep sigh escaping her lips. "You certainly have quite the courage to leave me hanging my student.."

"..I..! am deeply sorry, Teacher.. I forgot that you were waiting for me and I had to make sure the Romans didn't get attacked when we brought them here and.. there was the Meeting as well.." She bows before her teacher, she cannot face Orphelia. But she does apologize the best she can.

"I understand that, but could you have at least gave me the heads up? You do have a communicator don't you? Good grief, I have been here for two days now. You didn't show up on the third one I would have left..."

9:56 AM

Orphelia was clearly displeased, judging from her narrow eyes. Removing her lenses, Veronica would be staring into her crimson eye as her blue one was covered by her black hair.

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

Well, Veronica is staring down at the floor. "..I will, next time. I promise." Speaking of.. giving heads up.. "I'll uh.. be heading out soon again. Casters Territory needs someone to watch over it.. er.. are you going to stay?"

It has not been two days and Orphelia is exaggerating. In fact, it is still the same day.

Angelic

It has not been two days and Orphelia is exaggerating. In fact, it is still the same day.

(She does not like to wait)

Hahaha)

Well, Veronica is staring down at the floor. "..I will, next time. I promise." Speaking of.. giving heads up.. "I'll uh.. be heading out soon again. Casters Territory needs someone to watch over it.. er.. are you going to stay?"

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump "Good grief. So all that waiting IS pointless. Eh, no matter. I am sure you'll figure it out. As for staying. No. I am leaving if you are okay. I would continue the lesson but... you have lots of things on your plate already." Placing a hand on her hip, she lets out another heavy sigh as she glanced at Francis. "Archer, see to it that she is safe and unharmed. Even if it costs you your life."

@TheInsanityThatLiesOutside

"I live for nothing else," Francis said blandly, "Very well Master Veronica. I kill and die on your orders. Do not hesitate to use me as a tool when the occasion rises and dispose of me like one if needed." @Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"..I-I really don't think it's neccessary to go that far for me..!" But she can't exactly deny him the chance to help her. "..at least, I won't let it come that far that you'd have to put your life on the line."

"Ma'am, we're servants and this is the situation we find ourselves in. I'm touched that you would do your best to prevent that situation, but I ask of you to always but me in danger first before yourself. Servants are disposable, that is objective fact, so allow us to fuffil that niche."

"Veronica, remember what we talked about a while ago. Servants are disposables, death is not permanent for them. It is permanent for us humans. Do remember, sometimes as a magus you must see things in a pragmatic way for the greater good and your own good." She said in a rather cold manner "Consider this your lesson."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"..I know that. But.. Servants don't always come back." Lyta didn't come back. Guin is gone. Surtr hasn't returned.. "..if I can help it, I won't let them die as long as I am around."

"That is fine but don't be an idiot. You cannot save everyone. Maybe a situation will come where you have to choose. Remember this as well, I am waiting for your safe return, and so is your lover. You aren't allowed to die selfishly."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"You do not need to concern yourself Master Veronica. If it is by any means a comfort be aware I do this of my own free will. I am a soldier and soldiers serve their commanders and orders to the end. Without that, I am nothing but a hallow shell."

"..." She frowns. She knows that they're correct but.. she never wants to be in a situation where she has to choose between someone. "I.. Yes. I won't die for selfish reasons." Of course not, she refuses to die for herself. She has to protect everyone, so she can't die.

Hippolytus is somewhat nearby, but avoiding human interaction as much as he can. He's not being an edgy loner or anything, mans just has social anxiety. So for now he's just... Watching the fields.

"..actually this reminds me. Before I went on my last Mission I did try and bring Lyta back." But.. she didn't come back. Veronica looks up from the ground. "..well, would you like to meet my Servant?" @Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump "If you want to summon them back. Having something that belonged to them in life as a catalyst is the most efficient and guaranteed way to get them." Orphelia said as she placed her hand on her trench coat pocket. Then she would merely pull out a Dragon Smokes cigarette and place it on her mouth. Lighting it up using a bit of fire magecraft.

https://tenor.com/zYjx.gif

..Ah, right that is a good idea. "..I didn't think about that.. Er, but. I did summon connected to her when I tried." She's only slightly dissapointed that her teacher is smoking. She's never really been a major fan of it, she's fairly obsessed with being healthy after all.

"Hmm? You look disappointed, I may sound like a hypocrite, but I advice you don't smoke. One time becomes a habit in the blink of an eye. And me? I am immune to most diseases, lung related included but still. Not a reason to do so. A pity it is harder to stop." She said before merely staring down her student, blowing the smoke to the opposite of her direction. "Well? You have something else to do don't you? Take Archer with you at all times."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Ah. Er, I guess that means you wouldn't want to meet my Archer..?" She seems a bit down saying that. She had at least hoped to be able to introduce the two.

"Hmm? Oh right, go ahead. Show them. I want to see who is it that you have summoned. And speaking of which. How many command seals do you still have?"

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

8:26 PM

(Ping me. Reeeee)

"A-Ah.. er.. I.. used them all. The one Alex gave me too." To Save Flora. Which failed.. ...She shouldn't think back on it. What's gone is gone. "Hey, Lytus. Would you like to meet my teacher..?" "I asked him to come here..!"

(@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria @RJ|Sir L/Lytus/Dude/Wolf/-/-)

"As you wish." It didn't take long at all for him to have jogged over to the two of them, simply standing by Veronica and turning to face Orphelia, his eyes scanning her all over, trying to get a good read on her. ".......Hello."

"A pleasure to meet you again," Francis didn't say anything more then basic courtesy.

"As you wish." It didn't take long at all for him to have jogged over to the two of them, simply standing by Veronica and turning to face Orphelia, his eyes scanning her all over, trying to get a good read on her. ".......Hello."

@Hippolytus || Moon's Disciple (@RJ|Sir L/Lytus/Dude/Wolf/-/-) - jump "Welcome, I trust you will defend my student to the best of your ability? Like her previous servant did?"

"I will defend her with my very life. If I can even come close to being of use to her, then my purpose here will have been fulfilled."

"As for you, Vee. Someday you are going to be perhaps a better spellcaster than me anyday. You may not look like it. But you sure are getting quite proficient in martial arts. Although, there is so much a sword can do to defend you."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"I will defend her with my very life. If I can even come close to being of use to her, then my purpose here will have been fulfilled."

@Hippolytus || Moon's Disciple (@RJ|Sir L/Lytus/Dude/Wolf/-/-) - jump "Well, I care little for those words. It is actions I see value in."

"As for you, Vee. Someday you are going to be perhaps a better spellcaster than me anyday. You may not look like it. But you sure are getting quite proficient in martial arts. Although, there is so much a sword can do to defend you."

@Dr. Orphelia Maxwell Germi (@Orphelia/Naomi/Artoria) - jump "a better spellcaster than you..? I can't even really imagine it.. Er.. Yes, I have not been neglecting my martial arts training!" Though her Magic is still lacking. She smiles at her Teacher. While she didn't deserve the Praise it did make her feel better.

"a better spellcaster than you..? I can't even really imagine it.. Er.. Yes, I have not been neglecting my martial arts training!" Though her Magic is still lacking. She smiles at her Teacher. While she didn't deserve the Praise it did make her feel better.

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump "Yes, you will surpass me in time in terms of knowledge of magecraft. Anyways, so you still have time to kill here or are you about to leave?"

"I'll be off once I've gathered the Romans to re-locate them! Epona wasn't too happy about me bringing them here, after all.."

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump "Sounds quite complicated, but when is anything not complicated. Anyways, if real danger arrives. I will use a command seal. Just make sure to keep Archer on you."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Ah, Got it. But I won't let it come to that!" Not again, anyway.

"Atta-girl. That's my student for you. Being a big girl now. Well, I suppose that is everything. I am heading out now, unless you still got something on your mind?"

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Ah, you won't stay in the singularity?"

"Well, I got my fill of singularities for one lifetime Veronica. Although, I don't really got much to do here. If you want me to stay, I suppose I could hang around for a while."

1:54 PM

"I sure hope Olga forks up the cash one of these days.."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"...I'm sure we'll get paid once its over..!" It's not like actual money would have much use right now anyway, what with the whole of Humanity being unavailable at the moment. "and I wouldn't want to force you to stay in danger. T-Though I'm sure that this place could use your help. A-at least, to make sure the Undead threat is entirely dealt with..?"

Orphelia would then drop the now short cigarette to the ground before stomping it lightly. Putting out the flame and breathing a sigh of relief. Afterwards, she would remove her glasses and smile. Closing one of her eyes and winking at her. "Darling, danger is my middle name."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

Something tells Veronica that Danger, is in fact, not Orphelias middle name. "Right..! I should stop being lazy. Thank you for coming out here, Teacher."

"Don't sweat it dear, now go do whatever it is you do. I'll be here when you need me. Good thing I brought some rations." As always, Orphelia has that action girl attitude with her.

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Ah, you could always ask Alex for the good rations..! Anyway, Lytus. Let's get going."

"Wait, wait, wait. Hold on there Veronica. I just got a good idea. I'll escort you to your destination. However, let's make this a bit fun shall we?"

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"Ah? We were just going to teleport over, it's pretty far."

"Oh no, that won't do Veronica. I got a better idea. Besides that is a bit lame. We are racing to our destination."

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

"..You want to race to the north? That's.. really dangerous.."

@Veronique Otrerum Nicolo (@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat) - jump "And that is why it is fun as hell. Come on, now. Have a little fun!"

2:14 PM

"We have Archer and your servant. We will get there safely."

"I feel like I'd have an unfair advantage, in that case. With my Pegasus, we'd be a lot faster."

"HAHAHAHAHAHA! You think I don't have a ride of my own. Oh how sorely mistaken you are Veronica." Orphelia would then pull out her sunglasses once more, and merely toss it up to the air. And there it began to transform into a sports bike. "Are you ready?"

@Vormal/Asstolfo/Morban/Sword/Cat

2:18 PM

!item motorcycle of flying

2:18 PM

X

Selection timed out or was cancelled.

...Veronica really thinks this is a bad idea. Racing across the Singularity? Into Enemy Territory..? "A-are you sure this is a good idea..?" ..Whatever the case. If something bad happens.. She'll protect them. ..She doesn't have much choice af-- "Wait, what about the romans though?"

Orphelia then hops into her bike, and began to put on her helmet. Her eyes shifting towards Veronica. "Well? They can catch up. Now then. Let's ride!"

"I-I really don't think they can at all..!"

Hippolytus glanced at Vee with a very confused expression, before looking back towards the Romans. "I don't think I can carry all of them."

"Psssssshhh how boring! Fine! So much for a race..."

2:23 PM

"And just when I thought I get to try this thing out.."

"It wouldn't be much of a race, anyway." He spoke with an air of slight overconfidence, crossing his arms. Even the fastest horses weren't able to keep up with him.

"..Let's.. do it another time! For sure. Once this Singularity is over with, we can just use the Virtual Room in Chaldea!"

And now she was here and will vibe for a bit with her copy

Epona eventually leaves the memorial and finds Kaguya.

"You've been stalking around here for a while now. Don't you want to introduce yourself?"

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"I'm just watching all the masters move out and about as they try thier best is all. I'm only needed when they have need of me." She chimed before turning to Epona. "Kaguya's the name, I'm one of the servants here that lets them move from place to place. Nice meeting you as well."

"It's always good to find new faces wanting to help."

Epona doesn't smile, but she seems friendly.

"I've been told you want to move my people out of danger. Is that true?"

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"The idea has been humored, I have a temple that I'm more than happy to house you and the remaining tribe there. It is a mile away from the Cherusci tribe, a warning in advance if you have any bad blood between you and them." She explained.

"The Cherusci?"

Epona is surprised at that.

"Not at all. Like my tribe, they've demonstrated great resistance to the Roman Empire in the past decades. I'd be happy to have my people take shelter with them."

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"Oh...Well now, that went surprsingly well. Do tell me, how many of your people is there? In total that is going on this travel?" She asked as she began to think on what she was going to do..and how to do this.

Having to say a number hurts a bit, but she did keep count, even if she didn't want to.

"There's about fourty," she says. "I can find my way to the tribe on my own if I must, but they're all normal women and children."

@Crafter/Flower/Illya/Dad/Oni

"Hmm...Children don't take too much space....Alright then. There is enough space to fit them all in and travel all in one go! No need for multiple tries." She said happily. "That includes you as well."

"That's good."

"I'll tell everyone to get prepared right away."

She gives the leader a nod of her and would began to prep herself! Some strong magic was about to be used~