Re: Spirit's Resolution: The Invasion of Mana

by **Silver** Tue Jun 16, 2015 4:56 pm

Nastasia stuck to Vaughn's side, nodding although not smiling when he mentioned no heels. Perhaps she was a creature of habit, but she much preferred heels to other footwear––she had been wearing them pretty much all her life. Not to mention it felt like a skill all its own. There were very few people who could sprint safely the way she could in heels, fewer who could jump, and even fewer who could very capably defend themselves. She did, however, suppose that Vaughn would not steer her wrong and if she ended up serving people that maybe she would thank him later.

"Let's see," she murmured, glancing over the rather flattering selection of flats. It wasn't particularly difficult to find a pair in her size, especially when pretty much everything could go with her outfit. Plucking a box in a style she liked, she turned to Vaughn with a smile. "Easy enough," she chimed, tucking the box under her arm.

by **Masquerade** Thu Jun 18, 2015 3:38 pm

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} {L} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {P} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} {N} { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Enemy Phase.

Latel moves to D3.

Latel waits.

Peren moves to E4.

Peren waits.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {L} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {P} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} {N} { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 2!

Netta (Artificer) *INVISIBLE* *ELEMENT OF SURPRISE*
HP: 25/25
MP: 20/20
DD: 2/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 10/10
SE: 15/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

Peren (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 10/10
SE: 15/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

Wolfgang purchases a lighter and cigarettes! [-6 Personal Coin]

The man behind the counter was more than happy to oblige, going back to the wall of cigarettes behind him to procure Wolfgang's requested cigarettes. He snatched a lighter off the stand on the front counter which was hidden behind a local fundraising campaign set-up. "That'll be 6 Coin, sir," he said cheerily, taking what Wolfgang offered and putting it into his register. "You have a delightful day and remember that our service Exceeds the competition! We hope that you agree!" When Wolfgang cleared out, he went on with greeting the next person just as happy as could be.

The woman was startled by Wolfgang's approach, but definitely pleased. It was written all over her face and she hated it. She was supposed to be professional! It turned out that he wasn't from Myridan and he wanted to get shown the nightlife of the city. This was the perfect opportunity! There was no way she was going to pass this up. "Weeell, I can tell you, but I think it would be better if I showed you. If you're looking for after dark locales, then you wanna go downtown to the South District. Beyond the foreboding and fun-sucking corporate offices are some of the more quaint and interesting pubs and clubs. My fave is Starlights, honestly. Might sound a bit girly but its actually a rather classy club with fine drinks and great music. I love the jazz player that comes around on Friday nights," the woman raved, her eyes alight with wonder. She gave Wolfgang a sly grin. "So how about meeting up there? It's a peaceful atmosphere as opposed to some of the more rowdy bars and pubs."

Wolfgang has been asked out on a date.

>Gladly Accept
>Politely Decline

* * *

"Seems like you got the whole outfit together. Time for checkout then," Vaughn said with a smile on his face. Shopping was always nice. He could have done some shopping for himself as well, but he felt like conserving his money. The future was pretty uncertain as of now. Claire was still being vastly liberal with her money, but she made a lot more than he did, so it would only make sense. They approached the circular counter near the front of the store. There were only a couple of people in line and their purchases were fairly quick. Nastasia's purchase went similarly--fast in pace with great service.

Nastasia purchases a Professional Attire! [-55 Personal Coin]

"Where to next I wonder..." He passed her the map. "We still have a few hours. Anywhere else on here that you want to see? Anywhere that seems interesting? It can be in any district. Subway fare is pocket change to me."

by **Silver** Thu Jun 18, 2015 4:10 pm

Nastasia offered Vaughn another warm smile as she took the map from him. With so much time and not much planned to do until later, everything was pretty much fair game. Emerald-colored eyes scanned the districts for a roughly a minute before stopping on a district where most of the government buildings were located. One building in particular was labeled 'Myridan Department of Motor Vehicles.' Hmmm, she pondered, looking up to the road for a second––her mind instantly wandered to just the other night and all the sights. All the people in those machines zipping around and seeing everything faster than she had been able to take a single building in. The manager's mind was quickly made up. "Can we go there?" she asked politely, pointing to the DMV on the map.

by Vergil Fri Jun 19, 2015 4:46 am

This woman began acting even stranger than before, seeming almost as happy as her colleague Smiley McGladdenfuck over at the counter... if that was even possible. The man was so positive to the point that it was inhuman. Nobody could ever be this happy working at a gas station. Wolfgang had only asked where he could unwind and this girl insisted on meeting up at a swanky lounge where they could slam champagne by the moonlight to the alluring and enigmatic tune of Jazz music with the possible mix of energetic Electro Swing thrown in. She would probably invite him to dance with her, and when time came to close she would most likely drag him along to a secluded location like a park and she would gaze into his exuberantly radiant amber eyes that seemed to capture the soul of the untamed dunes themselves, while the vermilion sunrise would majestically rise and cast its rays along his lustrous strands of saintly russet hair that almost flowed all the way down to his sharp, defined jawline. This could have only meant one thing in Wolfgang's mind: that this woman was conspiring against him, thinking he would be an easy target just because he wasn't a resident of the town.

Did this woman take him for a fool? Did she honestly think he wouldn't have caught on to something so obvious? She was probably waiting for the right moment to ambush him with a bunch of goons and rob him blind... but it'd take more than a bunch of street thugs to get the best of Wolfgang Scargrip. If he walked away now and declined, the woman could simply mark him as a target and he could be jumped at a time he'd least expect, so instead he would have to play her game and like he did with Elowyn, he would have to willingly set himself up to get it over with. Perhaps at the end of the night, he would learn a thing or two. "Okay," Wolfgang agreed. "Starlights it is. I'll meet you there in a few hours. Oh, I almost forgot. I'm Wolfgang, by the way."

by Zerifachias Fri Jun 19, 2015 3:13 pm

They were moving! How exciting! Netta thought to herself, though she wasn't being entirely serious. Part of her knew this was going to take some time for the monsters to get close enough to her, but at least she wasn't putting this time to waste. Both moved two paces forward, or so it seemed. Netta couldn't tell what a pace was for them just from that, she would have to engage them in order to aggravate them to move quicker. But they seemed pretty limited in terms of mobility. Their movements were overall pretty slow, so them evading attacks would be a non-factor. Netta would have to screw up really hard to miss these guys, and with her own short range, it would be difficult to miss them in the first place.

No mobility, slow movements and likely to be unable or nearly unable to avoid attacks. They couldn't possibly be close-ranged attackers. Medium range, at the least, and long range most likely. But...they didn't exactly have a bow or a pea shooter anywhere on them. Netta would have to see them attack something before she made any final decisions on how they caught prey. They at least did seem the type to catch prey, otherwise they wouldn't be coming after her. Natalia wasn't one to be caught by monsters though.

She moved this time, closer to the edge of the water while bending herself down low to the edge. Covered in mud and sand, she would blend in perfectly with the edge of the water, and her movements were made while the monsters had their heads turned. No way they would notice her. Netta placed an arrow on the string of her bow and held it there, not yet pulling it tight to fire. Just a little bit closer, that's all she needed. Just one step into her range.

Netta moves quietly to G-7

by **Masquerade** Fri Jun 19, 2015 3:59 pm

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {L} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {P} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} {N} { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Enemy Phase.

Latel moves to E4 and pushes Peren to E5!

Latel chatters angrily!

Latel waits.

Peren moves to E7 anxiously.

Peren waits and sadly chatters to itself in a quiet tone.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {L} {~} {~} {P} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} {N} { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 3!

Netta (Artificer) *INVISIBLE* *ELEMENT OF SURPRISE*
HP: 25/25
MP: 20/20
DD: 2/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 10/10
SE: 15/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

Peren (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 10/10
SE: 15/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

Vaughn was astonished. Out of all the places that Nastasia wanted to go, she wanted to see the DMV? That was hardly mystical at all! He knew the horrors of that place from when he went to get his license. It was a place to be avoided if at all possible, but here she was wanting them to traipse right on in and enjoy what the place had to offer? Maybe she was interested in the cars and such. She did come from a world without them after all. THAT had to be truly horrific. He smiled. "So, we're off to the DMV then? Shall we?" he said warmly and led her along back to the train station. This time the subway took them to the North District first--it wasn't a straight shot to their destination. Then after that they were able to arrive at the Main Transportation Hub in the Government District, the only stop in that district as it was the smallest yet held the most important buildings. The two of them were checked thoroughly upon departure by the local security officers. With important buildings came important people residing within. One never knew if someone had something against the government and came to exact their wrath upon it. It was better safe than sorry, even if it caused most people to be delayed.

The platform was way larger than any of the other smaller stations. There were also multiple sets of tracks along with other platforms. The place was huge and bustling with people. There were multiple information and customer service booths, a few security outposts, and plenty of self-serve ticket kiosks. Vaughn took Nastasia's hand once again; he didn't want to lose her amidst this many people. She was apt to get swept away with the tides of bodies. Vaughn was able to find the huge staircase leading up to the indoor lobby of the hub. Their footsteps echoed off the tile floor over the din of casual muttering from people sitting in chairs along the walls, waiting for people or what have them. The glass doors took them out into a field with the grass freshly cut and sidewalks weaving all about. It looked like they were on a hill. There were wooden benches and stone memorials dotting the landscape. It was quite serene.

Vaughn pointed to the left down the sidewalk to some brick buildings with black roofs. "That's the transportation center. The DMV is over there," he said as he walked along towards the building with Nastasia in tow. They stood outside the door leading into the DMV office. Apparently there were other transportation-based agencies and the like all residing in one large building of the complex. "Why exactly did you want to come here, anyway?" he pried, finally letting curiosity get the better of him.

* * *

The woman screamed internally. She couldn't BELIEVE she got a date with this good-looking guy! Her parents probably wouldn't approve but she was an adult. She had to make her own choices and she was almost positive she wasn't going to regret this. She wanted to get to know more about this Wolfgang. She felt her heartbeat increase a bit, but she knew she'd better hold her horses. This guy probably didn't think anything of her. Just friends for now. But she held on to the hope that...

"Yes, Starlights it is! I don't get off until 4, and the good music starts at 8, so how about we meet there at 8? I hope that's good for you; I have to get back to work! The name's Sasha. Sasha Desante. I look forward to seeing you later!" With that she traipsed back to work, aiding a confused looking elderly man in one of the aisles who was looking for something specific. There was a definite spring in her step now, though.

*Wolfgang has a date with Sasha at 8pm on 6/5/2245.

by Zerifachias Fri Jun 19, 2015 4:15 pm

Oh! That was a little unexpected. Was that one a leader of some sort? Netta glanced at the monster. No identifying marks or other indications that it was better than the other. A little more aggressive than the other one, it seemed. It might be better to kill it first to demoralize the other. Netta prepared herself to move forward, but stopped for a moment and thought about it. These two weren't exactly the cleverest of creatures. Not from what Netta saw. They were just like a duo of squirrels from her forest. Rather big squirrels, but they way they acted was similar.

So Netta decided to put the fear of the gods into these monsters and drew her bow, aiming straight for the monster that had shambled just a little too close to her trap. She took careful aim, missing this shot would be fatal, a death sentence for her own self, though she wagered she could run up the tree nearby to escape their range, if necessary. Leaving no eye closed and her bow just above the surface of the water, Netta pulled back, took a breath, and fired. The arrow shot across the surface of the water before kicking up from the pressure of the air towards the monster's ugly head. A death sentence one way or another.

Netta attacks Peren! SUPRISE!! 11 Atk DMG!

Netta moved quickly, her position would be given away now, so she had to make distance between herself and the other monster. She could melt away into the shadows again once she gained some distance, but for now she had to kite around the edges of the marsh, keeping an eye on the range of the monsters. She hoped one arrow was enough for the first creature, and she had a feeling one arrow wouldn't be enough for the other. Still, Natalia might catch the other by surprise if she sunk into the marsh for long enough.

Netta wades in the water towards F-9

by **Silver** Fri Jun 19, 2015 5:11 pm

Nastasia felt herself flush the slightest bit as Vaughn grabbed her hand again––she mentally scolded herself for allowing herself to be so taken off-guard by it. Those thoughts, however, instantly scattered as they climbed the stairs up to the government district. "Gods above," the sorceress whispered as she took in the sights of the fields and monuments. She hummed appreciatively at the serene feeling in the air.

As the duo walked toward their destination, she tried to take it all in but found herself distracted yet again. "Those machines people ride around in," she began with a chuckle, removing her hand from his to readjust her glasses. "It probably sounds silly, but I want to learn more about them. They move so... gracefully... well, for the most part it seemed. I manage a famous dancer's career back home and we're always looking for new sources of choreographic inspiration; I figured learning more about them might give me some ideas for how to describe them when I return." She paused a moment. A thoughtful look crossed over her face and she seemed once again distracted, but she quickly smiled once more. "It also seems like a pretty quick way to... well... adapt. Everyone seems to be able to drive them––I wouldn't mind learning how to operate one of those mechanisms."

by Vergil Fri Jun 19, 2015 9:38 pm

"Sasha, huh? I'll see you at eight," Wolfgang agreed, motioning his hand as he bid her goodbye. After distancing himself far away from the gas station, Wolfgang made sure it was safe enough to light up a cigarette without causing accidental combustion from the fumes. He had been on edge all morning to the point where unrealistically ecstatic cashiers bothered him with their positivity when it normally wouldn't, and just about everything made him paranoid. He took several long puffs from the first cigarette of the pack, finishing it within seconds and then putting it out under his heel. He had plenty of time to kill before he would return to Claire's home, and it was quite a task to figure out what he wanted to do until then.

He wondered if the city had a library in which he could research the history of the world he was in, in order to get a better understanding of his situation. If anything else, he could at least find some good reading material to invest into before going out on his date which he had no idea was a date. Hopefully the libraries here were more well-kept and organized, without a single phallic image heinously defacing the books. Wolfgang pocketed the pack of cigarettes and began walking through the district, in hopes he could discover the location of Myridan's local library.

by **Masquerade** Sat Jun 20, 2015 3:22 pm

Peren takes 10 Dmg!

Peren PERFECT KILL!!

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {N} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Enemy Phase.

Latel screeches in surprise and anguish!

Carrion appears at J3!

Scavenger appears at J8!

All units wait.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {N} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {C} {~} {~} { } { } {S} { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 4!

Netta (Artificer)
HP: 25/25
MP: 20/20
DD: 3/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 10/10
SE: 15/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

Peren (Marsh Shambler) *PERFECT KILL*

Carrion (Shambler Drone)
HP: 20/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Scavenger (Shambler Drone)
HP: 20/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

Vaughn smiled. Nastasia was intent to learn more about Lyreth's vehicles...as inspiration for dancing? So she was involved in the arts? That certainly made her more relatable. There were many locales of Lyreth that gave him inspiration in his visual arts and his cooking. He really wanted to travel around the dimension and learn about new cooking ingredients and exotic recipes, but the chance never presented itself to him. Perhaps one day he would be able to take some time off and go on vacation around the realm! That would certainly be lovely. He could see himself cooking with the locals of different towns and cities. How exciting! But his excitement was matched by Nastasia's desire. So she wanted to learn to operate them?

"Perhaps you should consider enrolling in the DMV's Driver's Education course," Vaughn tossed out his idea. "It's a class that will teach you how to operate a vehicle and all the laws and rules of the road. Would you be interested? It takes a few Coin to enroll but I believe it would be worth it."

Vaughn is offering to help Nastasia enroll in Driver's Ed.

>Enroll
>Maybe this isn't such a good idea...

* * *

Wolfgang's curiosity about the library led him on a valiant search for one, if the city had any at all. Claire hadn't highlighted one on the map; maybe she had something against libraries? Or maybe she didn't think the Mana users would care for Lyrethian literature. Regardless, Wolfgang was sharp enough to do some investigating and wound up discovering that the Myridan Grand Library and Archives was located in the South District, ironically where the club, Starlights, was located. He found a subway that would get him to the district and had to do some legwork finding the library itself, but apparently there were a few signs around the district pointing the way. It definitely made things a lot easier. Wolfgang ascended the marble steps, two tall stone gargoyles gazing menacingly towards the street on each side of the first step on marble pedestals. The building itself was made of brick--they probably didn't have enough Coin to make the whole thing marble. However, it was still a beautiful structure. The inside was truly incredulous with different genre sections designed in tune with the genre that filled it. Mystery was done in black and white, like an old mystery movie. The horror section was splattered with fake blood with bloody weapons hidden through and cut-outs of monsters posted about. This was just the first floor, too. Many of the higher floors had even more books available for perusing along with little study sections to do research and the like.

Wolfgang would approach the front counter where the librarian on duty, an older lady easily past her 60s, stood in her half-moon spectacles, hair as white as a ghost and a ghastly pearl necklace about her neck. Her dress was modest and had a plain gray design. It was like she walked out of one of the history books on the shelves and decided to be the librarian. She adjusted her specs as she gave Wolfgang an up and down. What the hell was a person like this doing in her library? "May I help you?" she questioned in a very suspicious tone. She didn't hold back in the least bit. The many years she lived seemed to whittle away at her tact. That's probably why she was a librarian--a job where you don't really have to be nice because really, who is going to question you?

by Zerifachias Sat Jun 20, 2015 4:54 pm

Score! Right between the eyes! Netta grinned as she watched the monster fall into the marsh waters. She would stop by and pick its corpse later for her arrow and anything else that might help her understand it. Netta was about to put another arrow to her bow when, out of the corner of her eye, she saw two other monsters come into sight at the very edges of her periphery. Not good, one monster she could handle out in the open, but now that there were three...she didn't want to risk getting hurt. She either had to find a way to slink around her targets and pick them off or find a way to get away from the area. She could leave one arrow behind, it didn't take much effort to make them.

Netta flicked her wrist and bent her knees down so her waist entered the water. It was a little chilly, but the fur she wore would protect her from any nasty stuff hiding in the murk and mud. Natalia slunk back, away from the new and old monsters and entered the shadows, disappearing from their sight as she adopted the marsh as her body. She was getting better acquainted with the land and how it felt, not to mention some of the locale.

Netta steps back to D-9 and Escapes Danger!

MP: 14/20

Netta moved with the water, following the disturbances that were already created by her previous movements and rendering herself practically untraceable. There was a bit of landmass to the west of her that she wanted to get to. The best option would be to flee here, unless she found another opportunity to strike. One other thing that saddened her was the lack of any flora. She had been locking for traces of herbs or other colorful plants since the moment she arrived in the marsh, but so far found nothing. Netta would much like to find which plants were poisonous and which were not. She needed more materials to make her special toxins.

Netta moves to A-8

by **Silver** Sat Jun 20, 2015 9:54 pm

Nastasia's eyes lit up the slightest bit at Vaughn's suggestion. So there was a way for her to learn about the vehicles she had seen––she'd even get to drive them like she wanted! "That sounds like a great idea," she confirmed with a smile, squeezing his hand once more although this time not in an attempt to comfort him. Even if she didn't have research to do to help Aaron down the line, she knew this would be good for her. Adapting to Lyreth's fast-paced and technologically advanced way of life would do wonders for her. If there was one thing Nastasia felt perfectly sure about, it was that she could never stop learning and she should never want to regardless of that fact. "Do we have time to sign me up for a class now or is it an extensive process?" she asked, having noticed there were several lines of people waiting inside, some that seemed more irritated than others.

by Vergil Sun Jun 21, 2015 4:14 am

The subways... oh, how they brought back memories. It just wasn't the same without the abandoned rails and the imminent fear of death in the air. The graffiti on the walls weren't created with blood either. Before long he made it to the Southern District, a section of the city that characterized the aspects of the urban charm with its corporate skyscrapers and drinking lounges. The library itself was obviously built with pride, much better than the ones in Paragon... then again, a lot of things in Lyreth were. Wolfgang recalled once visiting a library in Paragon only to have a termite infested bookshelf to collapse before him just as he reached for a book, and immediately after a homeless man sneezed on his back. He regretted never having an untainted story to read; his imagination cried for a better world to immerse himself into, so that for a moment he could forget he was in the hellhole known as Paragon.

Once inside, Wolfgang stepped around and looked in awe at how different this library was before he was addressed by an old woman in an almost sneering manner, though the behavior wasn't something he hadn't seen before. As a general rule of thumb, Wolfgang came to terms that most old people didn't really give a shit. "Do forgive me for sauntering about," Wolfgang excused himself, the corner of his mouth taking a brazen curve to form a bold smirk. "I was merely taken aback by your enchanting and brilliant personage, for I was dumbfounded to have expected any less than your faultless and profound charm to befit the curator of this fine intellectual establishment. Alas, not even the entire collective of words from each and every page of each and every book in this library- nay, this world could ever do justice for your flourishing pulchritude. I have gazed upon divinity and yet I cannot find it mortally possible to recompense the saintly wonder I have seen, though if my heart were but a grain of sand, I would have given you every beach in the world. If it is within your noble grace to pay such an unworthy man the slightest of time to help me find this library's historical section, then you would have my eternal gratitude."

by **Masquerade** Sun Jun 21, 2015 2:48 pm

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {N} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {C} {~} {~} { } { } {S} { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Netta is Invisible.

Enemy Phase.

"So this has become a game of cat and mouse? When I heard there was an intruder in my marsh, I was expecting something less...clever."

Latel moves to F5.

Latel waits.

Carrion moves to H2.

Carrion waits.

Scavenger moves to F8.

Scavenger waits.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {N} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {L} {~} {~} {S} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} {C} { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 5!

Netta (Artificer) *INVISIBLE*
HP: 25/25
MP: 14/20
DD: 3/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 10/10
SE: 15/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

Peren (Marsh Shambler) *PERFECT KILL*

Carrion (Shambler Drone)
HP: 20/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Scavenger (Shambler Drone)
HP: 20/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

"It shouldn't take too terribly long. Let's go," Vaughn chimed as he led her inside. They were checked for dangerous materials and weaponry which ordinarily would have to be left in a bin at the entrance with security until the visitors left. However, neither of the two had anything worth confiscating, so they were let through without too much of a hassle. Vaughn went ahead and talked to the lady at the front desk, letting him know what they were here for. She gave them a form to fill out and mentioned it would be 15 Coin to join the class. Vaughn helped Nastasia out with things that were unique to Lyreth, like address and the such, leaving her to fill out her personal information. The whole process didn't take too long at all. Upon completion of the form, Vaughn went back to the front desk with Nastasia and turned it in. The woman informed Nastasia that her first class was next Tuesday afternoon at 5pm in Learning Room 102-A there at the DMV.

Nastasia paid to enroll in Driver's Ed! [-15 Personal Coin]

*Nastasia will now attend Driver's Ed on Tuesday afternoons at 5pm.

"That wasn't so bad now was it?" Vaughn questioned Nastasia. It was amazing how excited she was. It was an excitement of a greater magnitude than most teenagers in this realm felt when they were getting ready to learn how to drive.

* * *

The old librarian adjusted her specs. "If you wanted to know where it was, you should have just said that first instead of wasting my time with that dribble," she croaked angrily. She pointed off to the right. "It's in the far back corner. You'll see cut-outs of important historical figures and inventions. Can't miss it." She went back to looking at some papers on her desk as if to say to Wolfgang that he should probably get out of her sight.

Upon reaching the history section, Wolfgang would find a plethora of books to read through, the most prominent being:

The Creation of a Realm by Carmen A. Rayms.

Rise of Cordelia by Jameson Mardinay.

Origin of the Psyche by Danielle Meredith.

>Read a Book
>Nah, this is boring.

by **Silver** Sun Jun 21, 2015 3:16 pm

The process to sign up for class had been so much easier than she first expected. After filling out a form and handing over fifteen Coin, everything was pretty much said and done. Now all Nastasia had to do would be to attend the classes she signed up for and she could be driving in no time! "Not at all!" she exclaimed in response to Vaughn's question, her smile so incredibly wide. Her mind was abuzz with all the possibilities that awaited her now––the places she would be able to go soon, the independence she would gain . . . how unlike her own world she was going to become.

She hadn't really thought about that just yet, but it did seem inevitable––as a wise man once said, 'no person ever steps into the same river. It is not the same river, and they are not the same person.' She mentally decided to not let that thought bring her down; she had to live in the here and now, regardless of what that might mean. Nastasia turned to Vaughn and gave him a rather quick (and slightly awkward) hug. "Thank you so much, Vaughn," she said warmly, holding him for just barely the appropriate amount of time before letting go.

by Zerifachias Sun Jun 21, 2015 3:36 pm

Netta paused for a moment, hearing a voice speak from somewhere deeper in the marsh. That was...odd, was someone watching her? She doubted that he or she could see her right now with the way she blended with the marsh's surroundings. But she was stumbling on something a bit more sinister than just a couple random monsters. Could one person be coordinating an entire army of monsters? How would that be even possible, these things seemed so incredibly hostile...and retarded. The partner of the monster she had shot was just sitting in the water like a duck, as if she wasn't going to attack it for being so easy.

She could kill it too, if she wanted. One arrow would likely not be enough this time, but she could definitely get a huge advantage by flanking it from the side, away from the other creatures. She might have to sit back and wait though. Things were a bit sketchy at the moment, what with the beasts all aggravated because of her first kill. Keeping her bow above the water while also remaining hidden from sight was becoming difficult with how low she was crouched in the water. She moved with the flow of the water and crawled onto the little beach covered in sand and mud, quickly covering herself with it to be out of sight. Her muddy green hair was perfect for hiding as well, if it were red like her mother's, she would have had a hard time.

Netta moves to A-5

Netta waits.

by Vergil Sun Jun 21, 2015 4:02 pm

As previously thought, this woman did not give a shit either. "Well, can't blame a guy for trying," Wolfgang conceded as he walked over to the history section of the library. He was not disappointed when he found several notable books that could help bring him closer to understanding the realm and its mysterious ways. He would read as many as his time allowed, but he would start with Origin of the Psyche as he began to wonder how those like Claire came to be, and the sheer potential of the abilities of those like her. Upon opening up to the first page, Wolfgang let out a relieved sigh. "No drawn dicks... that's a good start."

by **Masquerade** Sun Jun 21, 2015 5:19 pm

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {L} {~} {~} {S} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} {C} { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Netta is Invisible.

Enemy Phase.

Latel waits.

Carrion moves to D2.

Carrion waits.

Scavenger moves to B8.

Scavenger waits.

{~} {~} { } { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {S} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {C} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Neutral Phase.

"Who knew there was so much trash in this marsh?" A rhetorical question emanated throughout the area, breaking the silence that had only previously been disturbed by marsh creatures trundling through the waters and drones buzzing angrily as they searched for their prey. A shadow formed on the surface of the water near one of the drones but it did not notice, and a shame it didn't. A figure crashed into the water landing on its feet, crimson eyes ablaze with a magical light. Before the creature next to her could even react, hair as red as her eyes tinged with just the slightest amount of brown whipped through the air as two vicious punches landed against its plant-like body. One of her strange gloves began to glow red before erupting into flame. This woman turned on a heel and delivered such a powerful blazing backhand that the drone was sent spiraling into the water. She brushed some of her beautiful red bangs out of her eyes which had dulled in intensity. It was obvious that she was an older woman, nearing her thirties at least. She cut an impressive figure, standing there triumphantly over her recent target while glaring at the ones that remained completely intact. Her outfit was strange, made of a skin-tight leather. It seemed to glow with a subtle blue light. Was it performing some function aside from just covering her voluptuous form?

??? appears at D1!

??? attacks Carrion! 2 hits! 11 Dmg per hit! (INT)
---??? links Burn Blow! 11 Fire Dmg! (INT)

??? waits patiently.

{~} {~} { } { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {S} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {C} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 6!

Netta (Artificer) *INVISIBLE*
HP: 25/25
MP: 14/20
DD: 3/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 10/10
SE: 15/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

Peren (Marsh Shambler) *PERFECT KILL*

Carrion (Shambler Drone)
HP: 8/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Scavenger (Shambler Drone)
HP: 20/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

??? (Archmage) *MDO +10%* *MDT -10%*
HP: 20/20
MP: 44/44
DD: 3/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 10
Spr: 6
Evade: 3%
Move: 2 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

Vaughn was taken aback by the sudden hug but he hugged her back and patted it before she let go. Yeah, this excitement definitely took him back to his high school days. It was incredible that this woman could experience something she could never have back in her own world. Just how far behind was it compared to this world? Vaughn admitted to himself that he was curious. All these otherworlders came to Lyreth, but he was not allowed to leave this dimension. Perhaps it was better that way. He sighed. It was starting to get pretty close to Nastasia's interview time. "Hey we should probably go ahead and get back to the house so you can get changed and ready for your interview, okay?" he said, waving a hand towards the nearby Main Transportation Hub. The two boarded a subway headed straight for the Marsh District. It wasn't right near Vaughn and Claire's place so there was a bit of a walk. It was past noon by this point and the sun was high in the sky and mercilessly putting out some serious heat. By the time they reached the townhouse, Vaughn had broken out into a slight sweat. He went to unlock the door but it was already unlocked. That could only mean one thing.

Claire was home.

This was not good. Oh, this was not good. He wasn't expecting her back so early. Then again, the Cordelian Council took lunch around this time. If she had arrived right when they started taking audiences, then her matter would already be resolved by now, and it didn't take too long on the speed train to return to Myridan. Vaughn pulled his hand away from the door. "Nastasia, Claire's in there. And I don't...well, I don't know how she's going to take the...Netta issue..."

In other words, he was scared as fuck.

* * *

Origin of the Psyche

Scientists cannot pinpoint exactly who was the first person to access the Psyche, a mystical and intimate representation of our inner selves, for it has been assumed that the use of Psyche can be traced back all the way to the beginning of time, far before anyone thought to keep as extensive records as we do today. Research today supports that younger humans are unable to command a Psyche due to the fact that they do not truly know themselves. Those humans that mature faster and discover who they truly are are more likely to gain access to their Psyche earlier on thus granting them the power to utilize Spirit Energy and to summon their Psyche to take their place in the corporeal realm for a short time. It is assumed that since the intelligence of the first humans was not exactly on the same level as current humans, that many people were unable to access their Psyche just due to a lack of self-knowing which was a result of not knowing anything about the surrounding world in general.

>Keep Reading
>Maybe the next one will be better...

by **Silver** Sun Jun 21, 2015 5:50 pm

It was a fairly comfortable ride and walk back to the house. Nastasia could not wait to get changed and ready for her interview now––the high from the DMV had clearly set her spirits in the right place and nothing could stop her now! . . . Well, except for the fact that Claire was home. When Vaughn pulled his hand away from the door and reminded her that Netta was still missing, her heart sunk the slightest bit. What would they do? Obviously they had to tell Claire about what happened, but how could they possibly explain their negligence?

Nastasia frowned deeply. Claire probably wouldn't reprimand her much considering she wasn't as responsible for Netta as Vaughn was, but the sorceress didn't want him to get in trouble either! The manager bit her lip in frustration. Then the calm. Nastasia readjusted her glasses and closed her eyes before taking a breath to speak. "Let me tell her," she began, opening her eyes to look him directly in his. "It's just as much my fault as it is yours and we have to tell her regardless. Netta can't stay out there all alone––it's too dangerous. I'll explain what happened and we'll figure out a solution. Together." She paused for a moment, unable to stop the slight quivering of her lips upward at the thought. If only such a means of action worked back home––dealing with Aaron would go so much more smoothly.

"She can't get too mad," she added quickly, "especially when it was beyond our control. We couldn't have chased her and the subway was the only way to get where we needed to go." Emerald green eyes looked to the unlocked door one last time before she nodded at him with a determined look once again. "No need to worry." This would not bring them down.

by Zerifachias Sun Jun 21, 2015 6:54 pm

Today was just full of surprises for the little Natalia. A strange woman appeared and slammed her fists into one of the monsters in a show of strength and fire. Was that magic? Netta didn't know the difference and she certainly didn't care to know. Her mother always told her to stay away from magic if she could, there was no telling when it might be harmful to be around, and there was really no way of knowing beforehand. Still, if this person was attacking the monsters with such fury, there was no way she could be an evil person.

But she was still a bit nervous about breaking her stealth just because someone else showed up and was attacking monsters. She had a feeling whoever this was knew that Netta was lurking about, but there was no reason for her to believe that the woman could see her. Still, Netta crept closer towards the edge of the water and prepared to reenter the water to get a better shot. She didn't shoot, only waited for the right moment to break her stealth and attack.

Netta moves to B-3

Netta waits.

by Vergil Sun Jun 21, 2015 7:26 pm

>Keep Reading

by **Masquerade** Sun Jun 21, 2015 7:53 pm

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} {N} { } { } {~} {~} {S} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {C} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Netta is Invisible.

Enemy Phase.

"The one who has already been snooping around my swamp! Where is the other one?! Three intruders now? How far will this obvious disrespect to my dominion go?! If you have the gall, come into the depths and I shall deal with you all personally." With that, the voice faded, the overbearing presence gone.

Latel moves to E4.

Latel waits.

Carrion moves to D4.

Carrion uses Mark Target on ???! [Target takes 20% more damage]

SE: 24/30

Scavenger moves to C5.

Scavenger waits.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} {N} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {C} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Neutral Phase.

??? moves to D3.

"An invitation to kick your ass? I'll consider it. For now, you left garbage to clean up," the woman grumbled, gazing at the remaining trash. One fired some pollen at her. It was obviously either a way to track her or a way to boost their abilities. They wouldn't get much of a chance to utilize it, however. She would make sure of that. Dashing forward through the shallow water effortlessly, she skidded to a halt, using her momentum for a powerful swing followed through with a quick jab and a blazing fist of destruction.

??? attacks Carrion! 2 hits! 11 Dmg per hit! (INT)
---??? links Burn Blow! 11 Fire Dmg! (INT)

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} {N} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {?} {C} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 7!

Netta (Artificer) *INVISIBLE*
HP: 25/25
MP: 14/20
DD: 3/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 10/10
SE: 15/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

Peren (Marsh Shambler) *PERFECT KILL*

Carrion (Shambler Drone) *KO*

Scavenger (Shambler Drone)
HP: 20/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

??? (Archmage) *MDO +10%* *MDT -10%* *MARKED*
HP: 20/20
MP: 44/44
DD: 6/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 10
Spr: 6
Evade: 3%
Move: 2 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

Nastasia's confidence and bravery were infectious, and without another word, Vaughn opened up the door to the townhouse. The television was on in the living room. Claire must have been watching the network designed for women as their target audience again. It was her favorite channel aside from the Horror Network. Vaughn let Nastasia in before closing the door behind him. The air conditioning felt great, but that did nothing to relieve the tension of the situation. He moved into the living room, peering around the corner beforehand. Claire was sitting there at her desk, scrawling notes furiously on some paper. Several open books laid strewn across the desk's surface. Was she reading them all at once? Most likely, Vaughn had confirmed to himself. Aside from being unbelievably involved in her work, she seemed to be in a good mood. Perhaps things had gone well with the Council?

"H-hey Claire! We're back!" Vaughn called out to her. She looked up instantly and gave him a small smile. That was more than he usually got from her so this was certainly good. Up until the point he was sure she was going to tear his head from his body.

"Welcome back you two. I assume the other two went off on their own?" Claire said, only gazing at them long enough to acknowledge their presence before going back to her notes. "I bet you've had an exciting day, Nastasia. Shopping already, I see?" she spoke nonchalantly. She apparently had taken note of the shopping bag from Ranzein.

* * *

(Origin of the Psyche cont'd)

The Psyche is apparently a power located in the hearts of all living beings, but it can only be called upon by those that have an affinity with the energy known as Spirit. Why Spirit interacts with the Psyche in such a powerful way as opposed to other energies is something that unfortunately remains unknown. Scientists have classified Spirit as an energy of being--meaning that it is an energy of a being's self. They have gone as far as to theorize that the energy itself is made up of a mass of free-flowing ethereal forms that have been rent asunder from their corporeal forms through magic (unnatural) or death (natural.) They have been trying to relate it to the soul--to say that the Spirit is tied closely to the soul, and therefore one's self, meaning that the Psyche can be stimulated which in turn gives the being power to manipulate Spirit to either cast magic, accomplish extraordinary physical feats, or to summon one's Psyche to the corporeal plane. This is known as the Soul-Psyche Cyclical Theory.

However, even the theory cannot explain as to why only certain beings are gifted with that very affinity with Spirit. In legends it is told that Fate entrusts those who are born to shape the destiny of worlds with the power of Spirit, an energy so intense that no normal being can wield it. Whereas anyone can wield the ever abundant Mana with ease, Spirit is highly selective. It is believed that only those born with the ability to wield Spirit can actually use it. Attaining access to the power of Spirit is currently thought to be impossible in the scientific world.

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>No really, this book sucks. Next!

by Zerifachias Sun Jun 21, 2015 8:03 pm

Netta shivered a little bit in reaction to that voice again. It definitely came from deeper within the marsh, but the source was not close by from what she could tell. Her senses were a little dulled from all the splashing water and the muck that clung to her. Netta watched the woman fight, slowly coming to believe that the woman might just be here to kill the monsters. Did she even know Netta was here? How would she react if Netta revealed herself to attack one of the monsters? There was really only one way to find out, and Netta was growing a bit nervous. She wasn't very fond of people in this world, especially Wolfgang.

Netta took in a silent breath and stepped to the side a bit, then straightened her back with her bow raised and an arrow pulled back tightly against the string. She let it fly and the arrow whistled through the air over the falling corpse of the monster the woman had just dispatched and into the monster behind it. She quickly pulled out another arrow and prepared it against her string for the next round, but her eyes were all over the place, watching every figure in her field of vision.

Netta moves to B-4

Netta attacks Latel! 7 Atk DMG!

by Vergil Sun Jun 21, 2015 8:05 pm

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by **Silver** Mon Jun 22, 2015 3:23 pm

Nastasia could practically feel the confidence within her spiral down a metaphorical drain into nothingness as she took in Claire, hard at work with several books scattered on her desk. The desire to go behind the bar and get a drink (as well as some cover) came to her but she did not move from her place at Vaughn's side. She gripped his hand tightly. "I did some shopping, yes, but..." her voice trailed off as she tried to figure out how to best phrase their bad news. Emerald eyes skittered away from Claire's figure to the floor and she quickly decided that bluntly would be the best way to put things. "There's a problem," she continued cautiously, looking back up to Claire––her grip loosened on Vaughn's hand and fiddled with the straps of her shopping bag nervously. "Wolfgang went off on his own––I'm sure he'll be back eventualy––but Netta... Netta ran off." She forcibly took a breath to try and calm her nerves, but it failed and she continued speaking rapidly to try and get everything out so that Claire could hear it and not destroy them with her powerful Spirit-based magic. "I had an interview scheduled at two and wanted to get some new clothes to make a good impression. We had to take the subway in order to get to the mall––if we walked we never would have made it!––and Netta got freaked out by all the technology and ran off. We were already onboard and the doors closed and there was no way to get off and go find her and now she's probably in the marsh poking around and I'm so sorry we weren't more careful! We can find her I promise! Please don't kill us! Please!!"

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