ReCreation

Bar Gate is destroyed!

Kristofer takes 1 Dmg!

HP: 18/20

Request 01: Stolen Satchel

Location: Irysium - Iron Gullet

Objective: Incapacitate the target, Kristofer, while keeping collateral damage and civilian casualties to a minimum!

Achievement: Safety First - Ensure that absolutely no damage is taken by any of the civilians in the bar. [5 AP]

Background: ~Irysian Struggle~

{ } { } {A} { } {K} { } {T} { } { } A
{ } { } { } {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} B
{ } { } { } {X} { } { } { } { } { } C
{t} {t} { } {t} { } {w} { } { } { } D
{t} {t} { } { } { } {W} { } {t} {t} E
{ } { } { } { } {t} { } { } {t} {t} F
{ } { } { } { } {E} { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } {w} { } { } {w} {3} { } { } H
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } I
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Elisia is no longer Burned.

Elisia is no longer Immobilized.

Enemy Phase.

Kristofer moves to A6.

Kristofer uses Trigger Command: Drag Out! [Bartender is Revealed]

This was perfect.  This was just the edge he needed.  He reached under the bar and roughly pulled the bartender out from hiding.  He procured a vial of acid and held it above the man's head.  "Don't come any closer!  All it'll take is just a little to melt the head off this man's shoulders!" the alchemist shouted threateningly.  Was this the cost of his dreams being realized?  Gods, he didn't want it to come this far but the guild members were pressing his hand.  This was the last chance.

{ } { } {A} { } { } {K} {T} { } { } A
{ } { } { } {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} B
{ } { } { } {X} { } { } { } { } { } C
{t} {t} { } {t} { } {w} { } { } { } D
{t} {t} { } { } { } {W} { } {t} {t} E
{ } { } { } { } {t} { } { } {t} {t} F
{ } { } { } { } {E} { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } {w} { } { } {w} {3} { } { } H
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } I
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Neutral Phase.

Bartender waits.

"T-take him out!  Don't worry about me..." the bartender shouted to the others though the prospect of having his head melted off didn't exactly sound appealing.

Civilian 3 moves to J7.

Civilian 3 flees to safety!

{ } { } {A} { } { } {K} {T} { } { } A
{ } { } { } {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} B
{ } { } { } {X} { } { } { } { } { } C
{t} {t} { } {t} { } {w} { } { } { } D
{t} {t} { } { } { } {W} { } {t} {t} E
{ } { } { } { } {t} { } { } {t} {t} F
{ } { } { } { } {E} { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } {w} { } { } {w} { } { } { } H
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } I
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 5!

Elisia (Sharpshooter)
HP: 8/20
MP: 2/20
DD: 3/10
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Int: 1
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Alessia (Magic Knight) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 21/25
MP: 5/15
DD: 2/10
Atk: 6
Def: 5
Int: 4
Spr: 1
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Wisteria (Void Magi) *BREATHE [1]*
HP: 15/15
MP: 25/25
DD: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 2
Int: 6
Spr: 4
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Xylia (Brawler) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 30/30
MP: 15/15
DD: 0/10
Atk: 5
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Kristofer (Alchemist)
HP: 18/20
MP: 4/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 1
Def: 2
Int: 5
Spr: 3
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Zen (Tinkerer) *KO*

Anza (Tinkerer) *KO*

Bartender
HP: 15/15
Move: 3 cells

{b} - Bar
[No Occupy]

{f} - Decorative Fence
[No Occupy]

{w} - Wooden Pillar
[No Occupy]

{t} - Table
[No Occupy]

"Damn it," Elisia swore audibly as the man yanked the bartender up from his hiding place. Now things were at an entirely different level––they were risking an innocent life on this search and seizure. She, herself, was about to give in to the man's demands when Xylia suddenly slid over the bar and rectified the situation. Elisia blinked, unsure if she saw that correctly. She had.

"Well," she breathed, "that's one way to handle things." Immediately she tried to make a move and the chains around her legs dissipated into nothingness. Without thinking, the Sharpshooter vaulted over the table and drew an arrow––now was the time to finish this before he could harm anyone.

Elisia vaults over the table and lands at C5!

"Get away from there!" she shouted to the bartender, hoping he'd, at the very least, take cover or go out the back door. Not wasting a second more she knocked an arrow and fired at the terrorist alchemist, narrowly dodging Xylia's body.

Elisia attacks Kristofer! 6 Atk Damage!

Alessia had been ready to back off as well––an innocent's man life was more valuable than not having to chase after a crazy man. Xylia's quick thinking, however, saved them all a lot of trouble. The bartender seemed to be still in a state of shock, but already her team was making sure he got the message to get away. With the dirty work settled, Alessia charged another blade of mana.

Slice.

Alessia utilizes Magic Circle: Blade Beam! Alessia attacks Kristofer! 4 Int Damage! Xylia is also hit!

Kristofer takes 9 Dmg!

HP: 9/20

Request 01: Stolen Satchel

Location: Irysium - Iron Gullet

Objective: Incapacitate the target, Kristofer, while keeping collateral damage and civilian casualties to a minimum!

Achievement: Safety First - Ensure that absolutely no damage is taken by any of the civilians in the bar. [5 AP]

Background: ~Irysian Struggle~

{ } { } {A} { } {X} {K} {T} { } { } A
{ } { } { } {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} B
{ } { } { } { } {E} { } { } { } { } C
{t} {t} { } {t} { } {w} {W} { } { } D
{t} {t} { } { } { } { } { } {t} {t} E
{ } { } { } { } {t} { } { } {t} {t} F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } {w} { } { } {w} { } { } { } H
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } I
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Enemy Phase.

Laughing. That's what came from the floor instead of wails of pain or anything. Laughter. The alchemist weasled his way past the bartender and grabbed the man by the neck roughly, pacing back a bit using his new-found hostage as a human shield. He procured another vial and dropped some of the acid on the bartender's arm causing the man to shout in pain as it seared his flesh. "Fear you??" the man exclaimed quizzically, a sinister grin on his face. "The true thing to be feared is a man with nothing to lose, my dear!" he shouted even louder, relishing in his quivering victim's pain. "YOU are the one that should fear ME. Now get the fuck back! I've come this far so I may as well go all the way! It's too late for me now..."

Kristofer switches places with Bartender and seizes him as a hostage!

Kristofer attacks Bartender! 5 Piercing Dmg!

Kristofer moves to A8.

Bartender is dragged to A7.

{ } { } {A} { } {X} { } {T} {K} { } A
{ } { } { } {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} B
{ } { } { } { } {E} { } { } { } { } C
{t} {t} { } {t} { } {w} {W} { } { } D
{t} {t} { } { } { } { } { } {t} {t} E
{ } { } { } { } {t} { } { } {t} {t} F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } {w} { } { } {w} { } { } { } H
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } I
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Neutral Phase.

Bartender is being held hostage!

{ } { } {A} { } {X} { } {T} {K} { } A
{ } { } { } {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} B
{ } { } { } { } {E} { } { } { } { } C
{t} {t} { } {t} { } {w} {W} { } { } D
{t} {t} { } { } { } { } { } {t} {t} E
{ } { } { } { } {t} { } { } {t} {t} F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } {w} { } { } {w} { } { } { } H
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } I
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 6!

Elisia (Sharpshooter)
HP: 8/20
MP: 2/20
DD: 4/10
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Int: 1
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Alessia (Magic Knight) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 21/25
MP: 5/15
DD: 3/10
Atk: 6
Def: 5
Int: 4
Spr: 1
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Wisteria (Void Magi) *BREATHE [1]*
HP: 15/15
MP: 25/25
DD: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 2
Int: 6
Spr: 4
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Xylia (Brawler) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 30/30
MP: 7/15
DD: 1/10
Atk: 5
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Kristofer (Alchemist)
HP: 9/20
MP: 4/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 1
Def: 2
Int: 5
Spr: 3
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Zen (Tinkerer) *KO*

Anza (Tinkerer) *KO*

Bartender *HOSTAGE*
HP: 10/15
Move: 3 cells

{b} - Bar
[No Occupy]

{f} - Decorative Fence
[No Occupy]

{w} - Wooden Pillar
[No Occupy]

{t} - Table
[No Occupy]

"Bastard!" Elisia shouted, practically seething as the insane alchemist took the bartender hostage. They had failed him! If the party didn't act fast then he might die... No. No that couldn't happen. That wouldn't happen. Elisia would be damned if such a thing came close to happening.

Elisia moves to C9!

Elisia attacks Kristofer! 6 Atk Damage! [Elisia moves to A9 via Continuous Assault]

Just as Wisteria's magic began to do its work, the Sharpshooter knocked an arrow and, as she had been the whole battle, fired while running. The arrow whizzed through the air and struck the man as the ice conformed around him like a fist. Before anything else could be said or down, however, Elisia slid over the bar. If the man somehow survived the onslaught then he wouldn't be escaping this way!

Kristofer takes 9 Dmg!

Kristofer PERFECT KILL!!

Request 01: Stolen Satchel

Location: Irysium - Iron Gullet

Objective: Incapacitate the target, Kristofer, while keeping collateral damage and civilian casualties to a minimum!

Achievement: Safety First - Ensure that absolutely no damage is taken by any of the civilians in the bar. [5 AP]

Background: ~Irysian Struggle~

{ } { } {A} { } {X} { } {T} { } {E} A
{ } { } { } {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} {b} B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{t} {t} { } {t} { } {w} { } {W} { } D
{t} {t} { } { } { } { } { } {t} {t} E
{ } { } { } { } {t} { } { } {t} {t} F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } {w} { } { } {w} { } { } { } H
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } I
{t} {t} { } { } { } {f} { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Kristofer has been incapacitated!
REQUEST COMPLETE!!

EXPERIENCE:

+4 - Alchemist x1 PERFECT KILL
+4 - All bystanders survived
+2 - Tinkerer x2
+2 - Player Phase completed less than 10
+2 - No Player Character KO
+2 - No D-Abilities used
+2 - No Items used
-3 - Collateral damage
-1 - Bystander harm

TOTAL EXP GAIN: 14

Elisia: 0/12 --- 14/12
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 2/16

Alessia: 0/12 --- 14/12
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 2/16

Wisteria: 0/12 --- 14/12
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 2/16

Xylia: 0/12 --- 14/12
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 2/16

Skill Points Awarded!

+1: Elisia, Alessia, Wisteria, Xylia

Achievement FAILED...

The Party finds 20 Gold!

Items found:

---Potent Acid x1
---Spare Parts x1

Edit your profiles, please~ Update will come shortly.

After a tense situation, the group managed to snatch the stolen satchel from the man's body just as authorities arrived. They took the group's report and spoke with the bartender and civilians about the situation. The bartender would be compensated for the damage dealt to his bar, and he offered the group free drinks for whenever they wanted to pay a visit in thanks for saving his life. He may have been a bit scarred but he could live to serve drinks another day. Looking back at the request details, the group located Albert's residence in the Revelation District on the upper west side of the city, a much more well-to-do area of Irysium. Knocking on the door, they were received by the alchemist and invited in. They handed over the stolen satchel.

"Thank goodness it's all intact!" Albert exclaimed joyously as he opened the satchel and peered inside. He bowed deeply to the guild members who had helped him so much. "You have done me a great aid this day, and I will never forget it. You see, in alchemy, there are major goals we strive to achieve--three of them in fact. One is the complete eradication of disease and rejuvenation of lost health, both physical and mental. We do this by forming an Elixir, a very rare creation for it has to be perfect in order to work at all. The second is the amplification of magical power and the extension of life to near immortality. This is done by the creation of a Philosopher's Stone." He paused to brush some of his blond hair from his spectacle-covered eyes. "My dream, however, is the third goal: the creation of life, a dream that only a god would even dare have, and one that can only be achieved by mastering the other two primary goals of alchemy. However, it gets so much more complex than that, but I won't go into details." He reached into the satchel and procured a beautiful flower with a long green stem with a radiant pale purple flower that drooped over a bit, but it was obvious it was still alive. It had a healthy glowing aura about it that was mesmerizing to look at. "This is a Deity's Tear. It is a flower that can only be obtained from a spot where the tears of a god or goddess have touched the earth. From that spot, flowers bloom. They are the Deity's Tears. One of the rarest alchemical ingredients, they can go for millions on the market. Only one who is willing to journey can gain this wondrous material."

Albert bowed his head once more and gave the flower to the young Wisteria. "I happened to gather more than I needed for my experiments. I would like you to have one as thanks for risking your lives to stop Kristofer. What fate befell of him, may I ask?"

The Party obtains the Deity's Tear! [Added to Inventory]

Wistera breathed in deeply when the alchemist gave him the flower. For as long as she could remember, she loved flowers. It was one of her more guilty pleasures as a little girl. Her mother didn't like her playing with flowers when there was magic to work with, but she never said anything. Still, Wisteria knew her mother would get a little upset from time to time. Now that she received a flower as a special reward for completing the job, she couldn't regret her emotions towards flowers.

"It's so beautiful," Wisteria breathed, mesmerized by the flower. She glanced up at the alchemist, Albert, and smiled at him. Her smile was bright enough to light up her face, and that same sense of completion welled up within her. Today has been nothing but good for her. "Thank you so much." Wisteria wanted to say more, but knew she should not exhaust her gratefulness. She clutched the flower close to her heart before continuing on.

"Kristofer died in the fighting," Wisteria spoke, a little gloomy now, but nothing could completely erase the joy she felt now, after receiving such a rare and beautiful gift. "We had no other choice, he involved innocents while trying to escape. I'm sorry."

Xylia, for once, decided to stay quiet and look away. Absentmindedly picking her nose, the brawler was much more interested in her surroundings than Albert himself. Oftentimes she could figure out a person more by what they kept around their homes rather than what lay on their faces. The man seemed intelligent enough, that much was for certain. A traveler too. Xylia couldn't help but be impressed, even a little bit.

Elisia breathed a sigh of relief as the man fell. Dead. No more harm would come to the bartender and no more theft between rivaling alchemists. At least... as far as this one was concerned. Lowering her bow, the Sharpshooter leaned against the bar––she wasn't one to drink much, but right now some alcohol, she felt, could really do her some good. Of course, however, there wasn't any time to grab a drink. The authorities arrived on the scene and took brief testimony from each member of the party. Directly following, Alessia had led them all to the requestee's, Albert's, location.

The Sharpshooter chose to remain silent, allowing Wisteria to handle the interaction between the group and the man. The girl seemed to have it covered. Besides, there wasn't much to tell. Kristofer had been a sad excuse for a human being and irrational at that––his poor choice of behavior got him killed. They could have simply talked to him and gotten what they needed, but their hands, as fate would have it, were forced. His death was his own damn fault.

Alessia found little to say. Wisteria had the situation covered for the moment. All she really needed to do was stand there as representation for the moment. However, when the girl finished and they were all gathered in silence, Alessia took a slight step forward. "Is there any other information you would like, sir? Or anything else we can do for you?"

Albert's face fell into a frown. "Ah, I figured that may have been the case. Kristofer was getting frantic of late, suffering from numerous alchemical failures. I think it was starting to get to him. He became more persistent to copy what I was doing and stooped to new lows to sleight me at every turn. I hope not to sound self-centered, but I believe he was jealous of my triumphs. And when he learned that I had come back from my journey with a Deity's Tear in hand, that was the final straw." Albert let out a long drawn-out sigh. All the achievements and awards on the walls of his home. The large wall shelves covered in both common and rare materials. His workbench and crafting station. His large home. Kristofer...didn't quite match up to that. If he had approached Albert as a friend instead of an enemy, perhaps he would have met a different fate. "To think he would harm innocent bystanders." He drew in a sharp breath as if the mere words hurt him physically.

The alchemist bowed his head one last time. "Again, I appreciate your efforts. I am sated when it comes to information regarding the ordeal. I'm sure the authorities will have questions for me once they learn of my involvement. I'll get whatever else I need from them." He paused for a moment and a genuine smile came to his face once more. "I may not require further aid now, but perhaps in the future I shall call upon you again. You can trust that I will keep the Heart of Mana in mind for the next mission should one arise."

With the situation handled, the group bid farewell for now and returned to the Heart of Mana's headquarters where Magnus eagerly awaited them in the main hall. "So, how did everything go?" he inquired. The group appeared to have a mix of emotions. He couldn't exactly tell if things were a success or a failure.

"Mission complete, sir," Alessia responded immediately, a proud smile gracing her face yet again. "We successfully located Kristofer, managed to acquire the stolen material, and return it to its proper place." It was at this point that her smile falter. Proud as she was of the team for successfully finishing their first mission, she was not so happy with the methods taken to finish it. The fight was a good way to see their battle synergy, yes, but this mission shouldn't have escalated to such drastic measures. "Unfortunately, it wasn't the smoothest of transactions. Kristofer was quite hostile and we were forced to take defensive measures. The bartender was injured in the resulting conflict. He is alright, but I regret for our inability to prevent harm coming to him." She paused. "Kristofer was killed in battle. The authorities have a report if you would like to inquire further."

Elisia crossed her arms. She was glad Alessia had the communication part down for the moment. If asked how she felt about the situation, Elisia would honestly say she was quite displeased. The mission hadn't called for manslaughter. Although they had done only what they must and Kristofer deserved, it didn't mean that Elisia felt any better about the whole thing. Still... work was work. She supposed as a guild member she would have to get used to it.

It likely wouldn't change anytime soon.

Wisteria made sure to thank Albert again before they left. It was only a courtesy that she wanted to observe. She said nothing else to the others on the way back to the guild headquarters, but she held that flower as close to her as she could, being very careful not to damage it. Wisteria realized that she should have asked Albert how she should care for the flower. She didn't want it to wilt, but didn't know if there was anything particularly special about the flower itself that needed conservation.

Maybe there was a book in the library that would tell Wisteria what she wanted to know. She knew that the flower could be used as an alchemical ingredient, so finding out what it could be made into might benefit her greatly. She only wished she had asked Albert, but maybe she would see him later. He said he would keep the guild in mind when making requests. Wisteria could only hope that he had something else that he needed them for.

Back at the guild headquarters, Wisteria was mostly quiet, though so were the others at the moment. It was a bit of a mixed bag when it came to emotions in their group, that much was clear. Wisteria could obviously tell she was the happiest in the bunch at the moment, though that might not be saying much. Alessia spoke up though, so Wisteria didn't have to. As the spokesperson, that was probably the better option.

"I...see.  Listen, it's part of our work.  We can't execute a mission flawlessly every time.  You guys succeeded, that's what's important, and it is with great pleasure that I hereby affirm your position as a legitimate squad of our guild.  You are free to take as many requests as you like now, and you will no longer have to report to me when they are finished."  Magnus gave his explanation and turned his attention to Alessia.  "It will be up to you to complete the paperwork for the request and file it at the front desk.  If Albel isn't there, just use the file box.  That pesky receptionist still hasn't come back from his break.  I may have to dish out some write-ups."  He sighed.  "The forms are available in the black metal bin on the desk."

Alessia, with no choice in the matter, was forced to go to the desk and pick up one of the forms to fill it out while the rest of the group idled.  Thankfully, it was a very straightforward form that was filled out in a timely manner.  Stashed away in the proper file box, the group would now be entitled to their rewards.

REQUEST 01 SUCCESS!!

Rewards:

---Guild Experience: +10
---Night Shroud Affinity: +8
---Night Shroud Guild Member Bonus: x3 to Affinity gained
---100 Gold
---Deity's Tear [Already Attained]

Rewards in hand, the group was able to head over to the Request Board and pick out a new task to busy themselves with.  There were the two fliers left from before.

Request Board

I. Stolen Satchel - "Help!  I misplaced a very important satchel of mine and I need it back!  I'm pretty certain it was stolen by a nemesis of mine who seeks to use what's in the satchel against me and I can't be having that.  Please find it and get it back for me!" / Commissioner: Albert / Faction: Night Shroud / Reward: 100 Gold, Mystery Item

II. Alley Cleanup - "Yeah I need some garbage cleared from this alleyway.  Not sure why the Waste and Recycling Center hasn't come to pick up this alley in a while but the filth is starting to pile up.  Some assistance from powerful hands would be appreciated." / Commissioner: Grouchy Oscar / Faction: The Holy Might / Reward: 25 Gold, Recycling Token x3

III. Bandit Hideout - We've managed to locate a hovel of bandits right here in our own city and it's come time to flush them out.  Seeking hired hands to help aid in the operation.  The less conspicuous the better. / Commissioner: Captain Arivel Lyst / Faction: The Holy Might / Reward: 100 Gold, Warrior's Seal x1

Alessia smiled. With the paperwork for their previous mission complete that left the other two requests which still sat on the board. The Magic Knight, of course, immediately grabbed at the one she had taken first before and returned to her squad members. That smile had not shaken. "I'd say after that last encounter we have a taste of how we work together in battle. I know its still early, but there's no time like the present. Shall we take on the bandit hideout with the Paladins of the Holy Might?" she questioned the group, her eyes focusing in on Wisteria. The other two, she figured, would have little or no problem with the choice, but the smaller girl might have felt differently. Alessia would not fight her if she felt unprepared, but she certainly hoped the young mage could find it within herself to attempt this mission.

Elisia, meanwhile, fingered the frame of her bow determinedly. The adrenaline hadn't quite ran its course out of her system and, frankly, she really wanted to bust some heads. Kristofer had inspired a need for physical distraction. Relief of tension through the release of combat. Although she had no problem going to pick up trash, she almost desperately yearned for another battle. When Alessia returned with the bandit quest from earlier, there was the slightest tug at the corner of her lips. This did not last, however, for the Sharpshooter's eyes fell to Wisteria––the girl's opinion certainly would decide which mission came next.

Elisia hoped it would be this one.

Wisteria glanced at the flier that Alessia held and paused. Her gaze shifted ever so slightly to Alessia herself and gave a small smile. "This is fine," Wisteria confirmed politely. She nodded once and glanced back to where Xylia was. "I'm sure our friend Xylia here would not mind hitting things. This is as good an opportunity as any to see how well we can work together in a battle."

"I'm getting wet just thinking about it," Xylia replied brusquely, a huge grin plastered onto her face. Wisteria faltered for a moment, correcting her posture quickly before taking a small step away from where Xylia was.

"Disturbing," Wisteria murmured, shaking her head a little.

Alessia and the others kept the flier and went to the vacant reception desk to pick up the extra information regarding the request.  The group was apparently going to sweep out a bandit hideout as a squad of their own while the paladins of the Holy Might covered a different section of the hideout which turned out to be an abandoned laboratory in the Cosmos District.  The expanse of rooms and the like made it the perfect criminal base, and the bandits surely made a nest of the place.  The group was instructed to meet up with a couple of paladins at the entrance in order to gain a so-called skeleton key card which would allow most access to any locked rooms in the place save for a few that could only be opened with the original specific key card that would most likely be found somewhere within the base or on one of the rogues they would come to fell.  Captain Lyst, the commissioner would already be inside covering his sector.  The group would arrive at the laboratory and immediately begin their extermination.

The key card was obtained with ease after presenting some guild identification, and the group headed inside.  The lobby of the lab was actually well-kept despite the place being abandoned.  That in and of itself was suspicious.  They were told that Lyst had gone up the stairs to the left to explore the higher floors.  The guild members were to head down the stairs to the right and explore the facilities underneath the ground.  The group proceeded down their predetermined path, heading through the doorway and down the stairwell that was only lit by glowing red lights giving the place an eery feel.  At the bottom of the stairwell was a white door with a metal handle bar.  Alessia would go to push on it and revealed a long hallway with various doors leading to other rooms.  They headed to the first room on the left.  It was locked.  Using the skeleton key card, however, the door opened to reveal a lounge of sorts.  There was a vending machine for snacks and beverages, a few chairs in the middle of the room, a water cooler with a pretty good stock of cups, a counter with a few kitchen appliances, and a table with some chairs to sit at.  Unfortunately for the group, the room was occupied by four bandits who instantly produced their daggers and set upon the party, no words spared.  There was only time for death.

Request 03: Bandit Hideout

Location: Abandoned Laboratory - Break Room

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Take Five - Purchase one snack and one beverage from the vending machines! [3 AP]

Background: ~Irysian Struggle~

{ } { } {a} { } { } { } {V} {M} { } A
{ } { } {B} { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } {h} { } { } {h} C
{ } {t} {t} {S} { } { } { } {F} { } D
{ } {t} {t} { } { } { } {h} {h} { } E
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{c} { } { } { } {w} { } { } { } { } H
{c} {V} { } { } {w} { } { } { } { } I
{c} {c} {c} {c} {w} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Vince (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Sven (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Felter (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Bender (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

{V - Snack Vending Machine
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Nuts - Buy a bag of nuts for 1 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Chips - Buy a bag of classic chips for 2 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Cosmos Delight - Buy the bestselling chocolate bar, king-sized, for 5 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]

{M - Beverage Vending Machine
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Cosmos Cola - Buy a small can of soda for 2 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Energy Drink - Buy a can of blue raspberry energy drink for 8 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Green Tea - Buy a large bottle of green tea for 6 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]

{a} - Water Cooler
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Have a Drink - Instantaneously recovers Mana by 5 points.  Range: Adjacent.  Uses: 3]

{c} - Countertop
[No Occupy]

{t} - Table
[No Occupy]

{h} - Chair
[No Occupy]

{w} - Wall
[No Occupy]

Players may start in rows I-J, columns 6-9!

Elisia starts at I8!

Alessia starts at I7!

Both Alessia and Elisia had already drawn their weapons prior to entering the lounge. Neither wasted a moment in hesitation as the enemies came into view; each entered an offensive stance. Elisia, who was definitely the most agile of the group, trained her stormcloud-colored eyes on the nearest bandit––the one positioned by the vending machines. She had no doubt that these men would likely be just as swift as she was herself, and if they got too close all at once nothing good would happen. Drawing an arrow and knocking it already, Elisia hoped that she could pick off at least the nearest one to give the others time to prepare.

Alessia, however, was already in the middle of channeling mana. Elisia had greatly benefited from her empowerment spell in their last confrontation––no doubt it would be a boon to her once more. The Magic Knight's gaze fell to Wisteria and Xylia––hopefully they could get in on the action this time. Both had played an important part with the alchemist, but neither had really gotten a chance to do much. Alessia frowned at the thought. She hadn't either. All of them would have to work together.

Buffing one fighter and sending her ahead was fine, but not the best strategy. They would need to forge near unbreakable bonds of teamwork to effectively combat their foes.

"Alright! Time to make some motherfucking NOISE in this bitch!" Xylia whooped and hollered, making as much noise as she could to attract more attention to herself. She loved having every eye on her, especially while fighting. She just felt so alive when in a brawl. The more beaten down she was, the more she enjoyed the fight. That wasn't just years of fighting speaking, she was born like that. "I might even come during all this," Xylia giggled madly, like a woman on some incredibly addicting drug.

Wisteria stood as far from Xylia as she could. She wanted nothing to do with Xylia's vulgar speech and found it extremely distracting. Her feathers have never been this rustled before, Wisteria had no idea what to do. She stopped herself for a moment, closing her eyes and taking in a deep breath. Her chain connecting to Elisia was reconnected and ready to be used again. It only took a moment to restore the chain, but Wisteria had to have a moment outside of combat to do it. If there was too much distraction around her, she couldn't focus properly to apply the chain's magic.

Wisteria starts at J-7

Xylia starts at I-9

Request 03: Bandit Hideout

Location: Abandoned Laboratory - Break Room

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Take Five - Purchase one snack and one beverage from the vending machines! [3 AP]

Background: ~Irysian Struggle~

{ } { } {a} { } { } { } {V} {M} { } A
{ } { } {B} { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } {h} { } { } {h} C
{ } {t} {t} {S} { } { } { } {F} { } D
{ } {t} {t} { } { } { } {h} {h} { } E
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{c} { } { } { } {w} { } { } { } { } H
{c} {V} { } { } {w} { } {A} {E} {X} I
{c} {c} {c} {c} {w} { } {W} { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Elisia (Sharpshooter) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 20/20
MP: 25/25
DD: 5/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Alessia (Magic Knight) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 25/25
MP: 20/20
DD: 3/10
Atk: 7
Def: 5
Int: 4
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Wisteria (Void Magi) *BREATHE [1]*
HP: 15/15
MP: 30/30
DD: 1/10
Atk: 1
Def: 2
Int: 7
Spr: 5
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Xylia (Brawler) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 30/30
MP: 20/20
DD: 1/10
Atk: 6
Def: 5
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Vince (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Sven (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Felter (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Bender (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

{V - Snack Vending Machine
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Nuts - Buy a bag of nuts for 1 Gold. Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Chips - Buy a bag of classic chips for 2 Gold. Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Cosmos Delight - Buy the bestselling chocolate bar, king-sized, for 5 Gold. Range: Adjacent.]

{M - Beverage Vending Machine
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Cosmos Cola - Buy a small can of soda for 2 Gold. Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Energy Drink - Buy a can of blue raspberry energy drink for 8 Gold. Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Green Tea - Buy a large bottle of green tea for 6 Gold. Range: Adjacent.]

{a} - Water Cooler
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Have a Drink - Instantaneously recovers Mana by 5 points. Range: Adjacent. Uses: 3]

{c} - Countertop
[No Occupy]

{t} - Table
[No Occupy]

{h} - Chair
[No Occupy]

{w} - Wall
[No Occupy]

Player Phase 1!

Alessia casts Empower on Elisia! +30% Atk for Three Turns!
Remaining MP: 10/20

Elisia
Atk: 7 --- 9

"Go," Alessia ordered, nodding quickly at the Sharpshooter and directing the movement over to the nearest bandit. In an instant the spell she had been preparing came to fruition and the same circular symbol appeared overhead. "Seal of power: Open!" the Magic Knight commanded, watching as a rush of energy filled the archeress' entire body before the rune disappeared.

Unlike their first mission, Elisia did not falter. She paid Alessia no mind, except for a murmured "thank you," and took a few steps forward.

Elisia moves to H8!

Bow ready and arrows drawn, Elisia fired one speeding arrow at the man. It hadn't even hit its mark before she swiftly drew another and let it fly just as fast and true as the first one. Her hand faltered as she reached for the next––she could already feel that her mana reserves were pretty run down. Best to save them for when she really needed them. And like that her first assault came to a defined halt.

Elisia uses Hummingbird on Felter! 11 Atk Damage!
---Elisia chains Hummingbird on Felter! 11 Atk Damage!
Remaining MP: 13/25

Alessia glanced warily at the archer as she chose not to fire a third arrow. With how much dexterity she had surely she could have fired another. The Magic Knight almost made a move to tell the girl to finish their foe, but she paused and thought better of it. Instead she took her own steps forward, raising her shield and eying their other enemies.

Alessia moves to G7!

Felter takes 18 Dmg!

HP: 7/25

Request 03: Bandit Hideout

Location: Abandoned Laboratory - Break Room

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Take Five - Purchase one snack and one beverage from the vending machines! [3 AP]

Background: ~Irysian Struggle~

{ } { } {a} { } { } { } {V} {M} { } A
{ } { } {B} { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } {h} { } { } {h} C
{ } {t} {t} {S} { } { } { } {F} { } D
{ } {t} {t} { } { } { } {h} {h} { } E
{ } { } { } {X} { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } {A} { } { } G
{c} { } { } { } {w} { } { } {E} { } H
{c} {V} { } { } {w} {W} { } { } { } I
{c} {c} {c} {c} {w} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Elisia's Empower has 2 turns left.

Enemy Phase.

Vince moves to G4.

Vince attacks Xylia!  7 Dmg! (ATK)

Sven moves to E4.

Sven attacks Xylia!  7 Dmg! (ATK)

Felter hops over the chair with ease and moves to G8.

Felter uses Slice on Elisia!  2 hits!  6 Dmg per hit! (ATK) [Elisia is Bleeding]

MP: 19/25

Bender moves to D5.

Bender waits.

{ } { } {a} { } { } { } {V} {M} { } A
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } {h} { } { } {h} C
{ } {t} {t} { } {B} { } { } { } { } D
{ } {t} {t} {S} { } { } {h} {h} { } E
{ } { } { } {X} { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } {V} { } { } {A} {F} { } G
{c} { } { } { } {w} { } { } {E} { } H
{c} { } { } { } {w} {W} { } { } { } I
{c} {c} {c} {c} {w} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 2!

Elisia (Sharpshooter) *WHITE CHAIN* *BLEEDING [2]*
HP: 12/20
MP: 13/25
DD: 7/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Alessia (Magic Knight) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 25/25
MP: 10/20
DD: 3/10
Atk: 7
Def: 5
Int: 4
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Wisteria (Void Magi) *BREATHE [1]*
HP: 15/15
MP: 30/30
DD: 1/10
Atk: 1
Def: 2
Int: 7
Spr: 5
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Xylia (Brawler) *WHITE CHAIN*
HP: 26/30
MP: 12/20
DD: 1/10
Atk: 6
Def: 5
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Vince (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Sven (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Felter (Bandit)
HP: 7/25
MP: 19/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Bender (Bandit)
HP: 25/25
MP: 25/25
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 2
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

{V - Snack Vending Machine
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Nuts - Buy a bag of nuts for 1 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Chips - Buy a bag of classic chips for 2 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Cosmos Delight - Buy the bestselling chocolate bar, king-sized, for 5 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]

{M - Beverage Vending Machine
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Cosmos Cola - Buy a small can of soda for 2 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Energy Drink - Buy a can of blue raspberry energy drink for 8 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]
[Trigger Command: Purchase Green Tea - Buy a large bottle of green tea for 6 Gold.  Range: Adjacent.]

{a} - Water Cooler
[No Occupy]
[Trigger Command: Have a Drink - Instantaneously recovers Mana by 5 points.  Range: Adjacent.  Uses: 3]

{c} - Countertop
[No Occupy]

{t} - Table
[No Occupy]

{h} - Chair
[No Occupy]

{w} - Wall
[No Occupy]

Elisia
Atk: 7 --- 9

Alessia moves to G5!

"Don't worry Wisteria," Alessia responded, "I'll be your shield." Raising her shield as if for emphasis, the Magic Knight charged toward the bandit that Xylia had just brutalized. The de facto leader of the group intended to keep her team safe, and it showed. The simple stroke of her blade along the man's torso held an air of something... protective. Alessia was swift to draw her blade back to her side and prepare her stance. If any attacks flew she'd do her absolute best to block them.

Alessia attacks Vince! 7 Atk Damage!

Elisia cringed slightly as the man jumped over the chair and countered her arrows with two vicious stabs. Of course, she had been expecting to receive some sort of counter, but not something of this magnitude! Those slashes actually hurt more than she wanted to admit––her blood still flowed from her wounds with little intention of stopping anytime soon. "Bastard," Elisia muttered, pulling her bow back and delivering a sharp blow to the thug's head.

Elisia attacks Felter! 9 Atk Damage! [Elisia moves to D8 via Continuous Assault]

With one of their foes detained for the moment, Elisia turned her eyes to the others. They seemed to have things under control for now. She quickly vaulted over the chair the man had just crossed and found herself in line with two interesting targets. The vending machines just a couple paces ahead and one of their other bandits nearby. The Sharpshooter's head turned to the machines... perhaps they had something in there? What harm could checking it out do.

Elisia moves to B8!