Tales of Alidaire: The Chase

Chapter 03: Harsh Welcome

Location: Naik Dataran - Sihirian Plains

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~In The Way~

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

Klein (Apprentice Blademaster) *PHYS DMG OUTPUT +10%*
HP: 95/95
MP: 55/55
Atk: 28 --- 31
Def: 18 --- 20
Int: 15
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Henry (Storyteller) *ALL DMG TAKEN -5%*
HP: 55/55
MP: 90/90
Atk: 3
Def: 19
Int: 26
Spr: 16
Move: 3 cells

Vincent (Necromancer) *BOOK*

Spoiler:

Macha (Blademaster) *CHR +20%* *EVADE +25%*
HP: 100/100
MP: 70/70
Atk: 27
Def: 18
Int: 8
Spr: 16
Move: 6 cells

Auza (Oblivion Witch)
HP: 65/65
MP: 120/120
Atk: 3
Def: 14
Int: 23
Spr: 23
Move: 2 cells

Clark (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Lawrence (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Giles (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Dart (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Hunter (Possessed Espionage Expert) *INVISIBLE* *EVADE +15%*
HP: 410/410
MP: 225/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Scope (Possessed Espionage Expert) *INVISIBLE* *CHR +15%*
HP: 410/410
MP: 225/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Player Phase 1!

Klein moves to H4.

Klein uses Focus! [User ATK +10%][User Critical Hit Rate +10%]

MP: 45/55

They might have to die. "If it comes to that...but only as a last resort. Let's just knock them out first! Then we'll have time to think!" Klein said adamantly in defense of the soldiers. If what Auza said was true, they weren't doing this of their own wills. Something was seriously wrong, and it probably had to do with the demon activity in the area that Wallace had told them about. If things were this bad already, they would need to take immediate action. He thought back to the first time on the S.S. Horizon and how this was supposed to just be an amazing trip to the new land of Berbatu with their main goal being reaching the Dalmaschior settlement of Sihir. But things had taken such a dire turn for the worse that...he didn't know what he was doing anymore. Always he had tried to stay happy and energetic, even in the worst of times, but he was finally faced with a situation where he genuinely found it hard to smile...especially knowing that the whole continent of Berbatu was at risk of utter destruction, and the burden fell on them to fix the problem since they were the only ones who were aware of the truth. Really didn't see this coming, he thought with a sigh as he met one of the possessed soldiers' dark gaze.

Henry uses Explosive Climax on himself! [Bestows Haste][Critical Hit Damage +25%]

MP: 74/90

Henry uses Facts Come Together on Auza! [Bestows Doublecast]

MP: 66/90

The soldiers might have to die. The mere thought made Henry shudder a bit as he prepared his quill and placed it to the paper, scrawling an action-packed scene that was surely soon to develop in actual life before them as they brawled with the possessed enemies. Killing the thieves was for the best, but these men were in the clutches of demons and there was nothing they could do about it. Or at least it was likely. They still had a chance right? Maybe Auza's powers and knowledge of demons would be of help. After all, she was quick to identify that they wee possessed. He threw her a glance as he jotted some things down about possession that he knew, sparse bits of information to make things even more clearer to Auza. "Miss Auza, perhaps if we weaken them you can break the possession as you would break a seal. After all, their wills are being sealed and suppressed by the wills of the demons," Henry advised hopefully. He didn't know to what extent Auza's powers reached, but surely if she believed in he own strength, then they would be rewarded.

Henry finished scrawling only to think of Vincent. Vincent didn't dabble in the realm of demons, but more along the lines of undead creatures. Any commentary on the current situation, brother? Henry thought in a rather aloof tone, one that he expected to irritate Vincent.

Not really. Except that it seems like you have found yourselves waist-high in shit, Vincent responded casually, not a trace of annoyance in his tone. Tangoing with demons. Nice going, kid. You're on your way to living a really, really, really long life there, aren't you? He heard Henry sigh and just merely shook his head. Demons were nothing to scoff at, even if the arrogant witch thought she had them all wrapped around her little finger. There's a reason why I don't dabble in that realm, fool.

Henry waits.

Macha uses Otherworld Sign! [MP Costs -50%]

MP: 56/70

A blazing azure glyph appeared beneath Macha which suffused her with incredulous energy, strengthening her control over mana. She had a smirk on her face, listening to the others speak of their plans to save the soldiers. True be it that she was a 'good guy', but she had slain soldiers in her past, and she wasn't about to regret laying waste to a few more that were trying to kill them. "Men of war are that much more vulnerable; these are soldiers specialized in offensive combat, not defense--like town guards," Macha observed, keeping her blade at the ready and poised to strike. "Makes me think that Elendia was prepared for battle against the other nations in the first place. Their bloodthirst made them eager targets for the demons. I have a feeling this is going to be a rather difficult problem to fix."

Macha waits.

Clark is Sealed!

Lawrence is Sealed!

Giles evades Seal!

Dart evades Seal!

Hunter is Sealed!

Hunter is revealed!

Scope evades Seal!

Chapter 03: Harsh Welcome

Location: Naik Dataran - Sihirian Plains

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~In The Way~

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

Klein's Focus has 5 turns.

Henry's Explosive Climax has 3 turns.

Auza's Doublecast has 2 turns left.

Macha's Otherworld Sign has 3 turns.

Enemy Phase.

Clark is Sealed!

Lawrence is Sealed!

Giles moves to F3.

Giles waits.

Dart moves to F7.

Dart waits.

Hunter is Sealed!

Scope moves.

Scope uses De-Immune Bomb on Macha! Klein, Henry, Macha, and Auza are affected! [Negative status susceptibility +30%]

MP: 209/225

Scope is revealed!

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

Clark is Sealed for 2 more turns.

Lawrence is Sealed for 2 more turns.

Hunter is Sealed for 2 more turns.

Player Phase 2!

Klein (Apprentice Blademaster) *POWER STANCE* *PHYS DMG OUTPUT +10%* *CHR +10%* *NSS +50%*
HP: 95/95
MP: 45/55
Atk: 28 --- 31 --- 34
Def: 18 --- 20
Int: 15
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Henry (Storyteller) *ALL DMG TAKEN -5%* *HASTE* *CHD +25%* *MP REGEN [5]* *NSS +50%*
HP: 55/55
MP: 71/90
Atk: 3
Def: 19
Int: 26
Spr: 16
Move: 3 cells

Vincent (Necromancer) *BOOK*

Spoiler:

Macha (Blademaster) *CHR +20%* *EVADE +25%* *MP COST -50%* *NSS +50%*
HP: 100/100
MP: 56/70
Atk: 27 --- 30
Def: 18
Int: 8
Spr: 16 --- 18
Move: 6 cells

Auza (Oblivion Witch) *MP REGEN [6]* *NSS +50%*
HP: 65/65
MP: 100/120
Atk: 3
Def: 14
Int: 23
Spr: 23
Move: 2 cells

Clark (Possessed Soldier) *SEALED*
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Lawrence (Possessed Soldier) *SEALED*
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Giles (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Dart (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Hunter (Possessed Espionage Expert) *EVADE +15%* *SEALED*
HP: 410/410
MP: 225/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Scope (Possessed Espionage Expert) *CHR +15%*
HP: 410/410
MP: 209/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Klein moves to G3.

Klein advanced upon the approaching swordsman and aimed to intercept him before he got too close to the much more fragile Henry. Glancing over he noticed another swordsman on a fairly direct trail towards Auza. Macha would have to her part to protect her. For now, Klein swiftly unleashed slash after slash with his two swords against the possessed soldier. The man's armor was strong, but the cumulative hits had a very noticeable impact. It would not be long before the fellow was subdued, especially if Henry decided to give him a boost. Klein gazed the soldier right in the eyes as he relented. "You've got to break out of this," he whispered so that only the fellow would hear him. "You're stronger than this. I don't know much about Elendia, except that it's a peaceful nation. Don't let you and your country be dragged into war. You've got to fight this demon to preserve the peace you want," he encouraged, trying to coax strength into the subdued soul. Whether it would have any effect or not was still in the air.

Klein attacks Giles! 6 hits! 37 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

Henry casts Peaceful Resolution on himself! [Positive status bestowed duration x2]

MP: 59/90

Henry casts Rising Tension on Klein! [Critical Hit Rate +25%]

MP: 47/90

Henry casts Explosive Climax on Klein! [Bestows Haste][Critical Hit Damage +25%]

MP: 31/90

Henry casts Prelude on Auza! [Bestows Protect]

MP: 24/90

Henry's quill furiously ran across the paper. He pretty much had a full story to write, and plenty energy to do it. It was an odd story, starting with the end and working towards the beginning--a storytelling element he had only seen utilized once or twice and tried to pull examples from those few works to make it make sense. The effects spread like waves off the parchment as they started working on his allies. The words generated a powerful aura around Klein which made him all the more intimidating with his already massive strength. And of course, he could not let Auza remain as vulnerable as she was. The words formed a barrier around her. Another cause for worry was the bomb that the possessed enemy tossed at them. The smoke was acrid and made him feel oddly weak. Coughing, he waved it away. "M-Miss Auza...we may have need of your protection," Henry managed, slightly trembling. "And I-I do hope we can undo this possession. In the end I feel as though it would save us a whole lot of trouble, but I guess we will see when the time comes." That said, Henry stood his ground. He had a habit of blazing through his mana reserves. Perhaps he should give it time to build up again with Auza's magic.

Henry waits.

Macha moves to G7.

"Not so fast."

Macha was upon the advancing soldier in seconds flat with her excelling movement. Flashes of darkness emanated through the air as she slashed at the soldier, a sly grin on her face. Drawing back for naught but a mere second, a blazing aura appeared around her blade long enough for her to slash at her target, hopefully setting him aflame. "Now for the finishing touch." She jabbed the tip of her blade into the fellow's mail, the blade easily puncturing the metal of the armor before bringing the blade back and then slashing upwards with enough force to send the possessed soldier flying back and sprawling to the ground. She had caught her apprentice's glance and gave him a reaffirming look. She now had her eye on the being that had thrown the weird bomb that exploded with some odd gas. Keeping both him and the other soldiers at bay would be problematic, but what Klein failed to realize was that Auza could very well take care of herself, not to mention Henry was there to mend her injuries should she sustain any.

Macha attacks Dart! 3 hits! 38 Dark Dmg per hit! (ATK)
---Macha links Aura Blade! 33 Dmg! (ATK) [Chance of Burn][Target ATK and SPR -10%]
---Macha links Rending Fang! 3 hits! 24 Dmg! 24 Dmg! 33 Dmg! (ATK) [Knocks target back 2 cells]

MP: 43/70

Giles takes 72 Dmg!

HP: 303/375

Dart takes 31 Dmg!

HP: 344/375

Dart is Burned!

Chapter 03: Harsh Welcome

Location: Naik Dataran - Sihirian Plains

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~In The Way~

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

Klein's Focus has 4 turns left.

Henry's Explosive Climax has 2 turns left.

Auza's Doublecast has 1 turn left.

Macha's Otherworld Sign has 2 turns left.

Henry's Peaceful Resolution has 2 turns left.

Klein's Rising Tension has 6 turns.

Klein's Explosive Climax has 6 turns.

Auza's Protect has 6 turns.

Klein's Immunity has 3 turns.

Henry's Immunity has 3 turns.

Macha's Immunity has 3 turns.

Enemy Phase.

Clark is Sealed!

Lawrence is Sealed!

Giles attacks Klein!  3 hits!  25 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

Giles waits.

Dart moves to F7.

Dart attacks Macha!  3 hits!  22 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

Hunter is Sealed!

Scope moves to G5.

Scope attacks Auza!  5 hits!  26 Dmg per hit! (ATK) [Auza evades Confusion]

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

Clark is Sealed for 1 more turn.

Lawrence is Sealed for 1 more turn.

Hunter is Sealed for 1 more turn.

Dart is Burned for 3 turns.

Dart's Stat Reductions have 4 turns left.

Player Phase 3!

Klein (Apprentice Blademaster) *POWER STANCE* *PHYS DMG OUTPUT +10%* *CHR +35%* *NSS +50%* *IMMUNITY* *CHD +25%* *HASTE*
HP: 95/95
MP: 45/55
Atk: 28 --- 31 --- 34
Def: 18 --- 20
Int: 15
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Henry (Storyteller) *ALL DMG TAKEN -5%* *HASTE* *CHD +25%* *MP REGEN [5]* *NSS +50%* *PEACEFUL RES* *IMMUNITY*
HP: 55/55
MP: 29/90
Atk: 3
Def: 19
Int: 26
Spr: 16
Move: 3 cells

Vincent (Necromancer) *BOOK*

Spoiler:

Macha (Blademaster) *CHR +20%* *EVADE +25%* *MP COST -50%* *NSS +50%*
HP: 97/100
MP: 43/70
Atk: 27 --- 30
Def: 18
Int: 8
Spr: 16 --- 18
Move: 6 cells

Auza (Oblivion Witch) *MP REGEN [6]* *NSS +50%* *PROTECT*
HP: 35/65
MP: 82/120
Atk: 3
Def: 14
Int: 23
Spr: 23
Move: 2 cells

Clark (Possessed Soldier) *SEALED*
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Lawrence (Possessed Soldier) *SEALED*
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Giles (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 303/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25 --- 29
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Dart (Possessed Soldier) *BURN [45]*
HP: 299/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25 --- 22
Def: 25 --- 29
Int: 13
Spr: 13 --- 12
Move: 3 cells

Hunter (Possessed Espionage Expert) *EVADE +15%* *SEALED*
HP: 410/410
MP: 225/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Scope (Possessed Espionage Expert) *EVADE +15%*
HP: 410/410
MP: 209/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Klein uses Blazing Jet! [Basic Attacks = Holy][Basic Attacks +1][Move +4][Evade +25%]

MP: 25/55

Auza!  Klein's eyes darted to his right where he took note of the bomb-tossing soldier retrieving a frightening set of throwing knives, lining up shots against what could only be Auza.  He had to be taken out; something had to be done.  Raising his blades, Klein closed his eyes and drew upon a power he had never used before, not to mention the source was one he felt he had not drawn from in a long time.  Light began to surge towards the two swords like magnets, and even more particles congregated on his back.  A yell escaped his lips as he threw his head back, the light on his back surging outwards to form wings, his body immediately taking to the air, hovering a few inches above the ground.  He opened his eyes and blinked a few times, adjusting to the blazing light surrounding his weapons.  Perhaps now things would be a tad more easier to handle.  Turning sharply, he was upon the knife-throwing soldier, bearing down with radiant slashes, splashes of light wondrously lapping at the air until he finally pulled back, bracing himself for dodging and possible retreat if needed.  But he had a feeling he'd have no need for such a thing.  Not now.

"Henry," he called out to the writer, but didn't deign to gaze upon him.  He kept his eyes trained on the two enemies nearest him.  He gave no further direction.  He had a feeling Henry's course of action had already been determined by the boy himself.  He was a smart kid after all.  As terrible as it is, killing these guys wouldn't be so bad if it's a matter of life and death for us, Klein thought, muscles tensing.

Klein attacks Scope!  7 hits!  37 Dmg!  65 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  37 Dmg!  37 Dmg!  37 Dmg!  37 Dmg!  65 Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)

Henry casts Refreshing Start on Auza! [+36 HP Recovered]

MP: 17/90

"Already a hundred steps ahead of you, Mister Klein," Henry said cheerily, his eyes closed as he grinned, scribbling something a bit more...refreshing upon his parchment.  Every story needed a brilliant start.  And with this one, Auza would receive the benefits.  It was wise thinking placing the barrier upon her.  Otherwise the knives would have dealt much more severe wounds to her form.  At least Klein was on the ball with tackling the enemy no matter how brutal he might have been.  The light show was quite beautiful; he didn't know Klein possessed that kind of power.  "It's almost a bit mesmerizing isn't it, Miss Auza?" he questioned the girl, eyes still trained on Klein's form.  He did hope he wasn't being too distracting.

Henry waits.

Macha attacks Dart!  3 hits!  38 Dark Dmg!  38 Dark Dmg!  57 Dark Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)
---Macha links Midnight Phantom!  4 hits!  63 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  63 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  42 Dmg!  42 Dmg! (ATK)
---Macha links Zephyr Purge!  9 hits!  36 Dmg!  36 Dmg!  21 Dmg!  21 Dmg!  21 Dmg!  21 Dmg!  32 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  21 Dmg!  86 Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)

MP: 14/70

The man had advanced upon her but that was about the worst mistake he could possibly make.  The grin never faded from her face, and more darkness flashed in the air as she slashed the courageous soldiers several more times, her strikes as precise and fluid as they ever were.  Even more fluid was her body as she struck the man once only to flash out of existence.  More deep cuts rent the soldier's armor, and blood sprayed the air, tinged with darkness.  Appearing in her original position, she gazed right into those black eyes.  Two more slashes as fast as the wind, and Macha's form was lost in a tornado, slash after slash being dealt to the buffeted foe before here.  "The winds clear all from existence.  Let them cleanse this world!"  Her voice possessed as much power as her muscles as each burned with a fire.  The twisting around had not dizzied her in the slightest, and now a pink energy began to form in her palm.  "PURGE!"  Slamming the sphere of energy into her victim, an enormous whirlwind of pink surged outwards, whipping the normal winds into a complete frenzy.  More and more firmly she pressed, and she could see anguish in the depths of his soul but she did not relent until the energy dissipated and the winds died down.  Her body was lax, almost as if she had not a single care for it, and she became quiet.

Macha waits.

Dart takes 223 Dmg!

HP: 76/375

Scope takes 225 Dmg!

HP: 185/410

Scope evades Confusion!

Chapter 03: Harsh Welcome

Location: Naik Dataran - Sihirian Plains

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~In The Way~

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

Klein's Focus has 3 turns left.

Henry's Explosive Climax has 1 turns left.

Auza's Doublecast fades.

Macha's Otherworld Sign has 1 turn left.

Henry's Peaceful Resolution has 1 turn left.

Klein's Rising Tension has 5 turns left.

Klein's Explosive Climax has 5 turns left.

Auza's Protect has 5 turns left.

Klein's Immunity has 2 turns left.

Henry's Immunity has 2 turns left.

Macha's Immunity has 2 turns left.

Klein's Blazing Jet has 2 turns left.

Klein's Seal Release has 3 turns.

Macha's Seal Release has 3 turns.

Klein's MP Regen has 5 turns.

Macha's MP Regen has 5 turns.

Enemy Phase.

Clark is Sealed!

Lawrence is Sealed!

Giles moves to G3.

Giles attacks Klein!  3 hits!  25 Dmg per hit! (ATK) [MISS x1]

Dart's S-Ability Tetra-Shield Critical activates! [Bestows Protect][Bestows Shell][Bestows Veil][Bestows Vigilance]

Dart uses Power Smite on Macha!  50 Dmg! (ATK) [MISS]

MP: 139/155

Dart moves to C7.

Hunter is Sealed!

Scope moves to E5.

Scope attacks Klein!  5 hits!  26 Dmg per hit! (ATK) [MISS x1][Klein evades Confusion]

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

Clark is no longer Sealed.

Lawrence is no longer Sealed.

Hunter is no longer Sealed.

Dart is Burned for 2 more turns.

Dart's Stat Reductions have 3 turns left.

Player Phase 4!

Klein (Apprentice Blademaster) *POWER STANCE* *PHYS DMG OUTPUT +10%* *CHR +50%* *NSS +50%* *IMMUNITY* *CHD +25%* *HASTE* *MP REGEN [3]*
HP: 55/95
MP: 28/55
Atk: 28 --- 31 --- 34 --- 44
Def: 18 --- 20
Int: 15
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Henry (Storyteller) *ALL DMG TAKEN -5%* *HASTE* *CHD +25%* *MP REGEN [5]* *NSS +50%* *PEACEFUL RES* *IMMUNITY*
HP: 55/55
MP: 22/90
Atk: 3
Def: 19
Int: 26
Spr: 16
Move: 3 cells

Vincent (Necromancer) *BOOK*

Spoiler:

Macha (Blademaster) *CHR +35%* *EVADE +25%* *MP COST -50%* *NSS +50%* *MP REGEN [4]*
HP: 97/100
MP: 18/70
Atk: 27 --- 30 --- 39
Def: 18
Int: 8
Spr: 16 --- 18
Move: 6 cells

Auza (Oblivion Witch) *MP REGEN [6]* *NSS +50%* *PROTECT*
HP: 65/65
MP: 71/120
Atk: 3
Def: 14
Int: 23
Spr: 23
Move: 2 cells

Clark (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Lawrence (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Giles (Possessed Soldier)
HP: 303/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25 --- 29
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Dart (Possessed Soldier) *BURN [45]* *CRITICAL* *PROTECT* *SHELL* *VEIL* *VIGILANCE*
HP: 31/375
MP: 139/155
Atk: 25 --- 22
Def: 25 --- 29
Int: 13
Spr: 13 --- 12
Move: 3 cells

Hunter (Possessed Espionage Expert) *EVADE +15%*
HP: 410/410
MP: 225/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Scope (Possessed Espionage Expert) *EVADE +15%*
HP: 185/410
MP: 209/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Klein attacks Giles!  4 hits!  66 Holy Dmg! CRITICAL!!  66 Holy Dmg! CRITICAL!!  44 Holy Dmg!  44 Holy Dmg! (ATK)
---Klein links Trick Blade!  3 hits!  53 Dmg!  80 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  80 Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)

MP: 18/55

Klein attacks Giles!  4 hits!  66 Holy Dmg! CRITICAL!!  66 Holy Dmg! CRITICAL!!  44 Holy Dmg!  66 Holy Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)

Despite being outnumbered by the rather hefty soldiers, Klein knew that with Auza and Henry's unreal support, he and his master would be able to wipe the floor with the group, and it seemed that was the absolute only chance they had.  If they weren't as merciless as this possessed squadron, chances were they wouldn't make it out of this as unscathed as possible, and Klein couldn't stand to see Auza or Henry get hurt.  Macha could hold her own, and so could he, but those two...  For a brief moment, he was glad Auza couldn't read minds; she'd probably be steamed that he of all people was patronizing her, but he couldn't help but feel the way he did.  Auza wasn't weak by far; in fact, she was frighteningly powerful.  But they already had a close call.  Thoughts of the battle with Resona still fresh in his mind, the apprentice shuddered as he took a deep breath and readied his blade.

The light from his blazing wings was as brilliant as ever, and his blade held a radiant sheen about it as he cut through the air with a lightning fast strike.  Again and again the light seemed to bend and waver as the light cut through it and armor and flesh.  Blood stained the white and painted the ground crimson.  Amidst the chain, he exchanged the swords in his hand with a risky toss of both, but he caught them perfectly and dealt a powerful slash with both blades at the same time, not relenting even then thanks to the boon Henry had bestowed upon him.  Lowering his arms, Klein gazed upon the body, panting.  Had he went too far?  No, it was far too late for regrets.  No matter how far we go, there's no turning back, he thought to himself, and he felt something strange happen to his expression.  It felt like gravity was weighing down on his mouth so heavily.  For once, he genuinely frowned.  Not even a trace of a smile remained.  No exasperation.  No excitement.  Just sadness.

Klein waits.

Henry moves to J4.

Taking note of Auza's silence, Henry decided to stay silent himself and help her in her cause, scribbling down upon his parchment a story where everything fits together so perfectly--perhaps even better than before, and he knew this particular tale would work wonders for Auza as it had in the past many times.  Feeling an oddness in the air, Henry turned his attention to the now melancholy Klein.  Henry was worried about how the fellow had let his guard down with so many enemies around.  Come on, Mister Klein; you've got to snap out of it, Henry thought loudly in his mind, unable to get the words to come spewing out of his mouth.  And so he put them on paper instead.  His words of encouragement and good will.  Of happiness and cheer.  He watched the words light up on the page and surge towards Klein to mend the injuries he had sustained, but Henry knew that it would take much more than that to completely rejuvenate the distracted Klein.

Henry uses Facts Come Together on Auza! [Bestows Doublecast]

MP: 14/90

Henry uses Refreshing Start on Klein! [+36 HP Recovered]

MP: 2/90

Macha moves to F5.

"My, such a daunting workout."

The Tempest was upon one of the men with the throwing knives in an instant, a simple grin upon her face as her blade of darkness weaved its web of destruction and pain throughout her target's body.  Once, twice, thrice.  A step back and a mocking bow.  Macha dashed forth, slashing the man across the chest before disappearing completely, shaded images of herself converging from all sides to slash the man once more.  She reappeared in her original spot, brushing herself off momentarily before reentering her fluid and responsive battle stance.  "Oh, it doesn't get much more focused than this, Auza," Macha called back to her ally as she scanned the rest of the enemies.  They were going to need to wrap things up quickly now unless they wanted the battle to drag onwards, and the longer it took, the worse things would become.  The last thing that they had to waste now was time.  Veer would be supposedly setting his plan into motion as they fought, and she had a feeling the possessed soldiers were a huge part of it.

Macha attacks Scope!  3 hits!  74 Dark Dmg! CRITICAL!!  74 Dark Dmg! CRITICAL!!  49 Dark Dmg! (ATK)
---Macha links Midnight Phantom!  4 hits!  55 Dmg!  83 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  55 Dmg!  55 Dmg! (ATK) [Chance of Addle]

MP: 5/70

Clark is Sealed!

Lawrence is Sealed!

Giles takes 356 Dmg!

Giles KO!

Dart is Sealed!

Hunter is Sealed!

Scope takes 340 Dmg!

Scope KO!

Chapter 03: Harsh Welcome

Location: Naik Dataran - Sihirian Plains

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~In The Way~

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

Klein's Focus has 2 turns left.

Henry's Explosive Climax fades.

Auza's Doublecast has 3 turns.

Macha's Otherworld Sign fades.

Henry's Peaceful Resolution fades.

Klein's Rising Tension has 4 turns left.

Klein's Explosive Climax has 4 turns left.

Auza's Protect has 4 turns left.

Klein's Immunity has 1 turn left.

Henry's Immunity has 1 turn left.

Macha's Immunity has 1 turn left.

Klein's Blazing Jet has 1 turn left.

Klein's Seal Release has 2 turns left.

Macha's Seal Release has 2 turns left.

Klein's MP Regen has 4 turns left.

Macha's MP Regen has 4 turns left.

Henry's Seal Release has 3 turns.

Auza's Seal Release has 3 turns.

Enemy Phase.

Clark is Sealed!

Lawrence is Sealed!

Dart is Sealed!

Hunter is Sealed!

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

Clark is Sealed for 2 more turns.

Lawrence is Sealed for 2 more turns.

Hunter is Sealed for 2 more turns.

Player Phase 5!

Klein (Apprentice Blademaster) *POWER STANCE* *PHYS DMG OUTPUT +10%* *CHR +50%* *NSS +50%* *IMMUNITY* *CHD +25%* *HASTE* *MP REGEN [3]*
HP: 55/95
MP: 21/55
Atk: 28 --- 31 --- 34 --- 44
Def: 18 --- 20
Int: 15
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Henry (Storyteller) *ALL DMG TAKEN -5%* *MP REGEN [5]* *NSS +50%* *IMMUNITY*
HP: 55/55
MP: 7/90
Atk: 3
Def: 19
Int: 26
Spr: 16
Move: 3 cells

Vincent (Necromancer) *BOOK*

Spoiler:

Macha (Blademaster) *CHR +35%* *EVADE +25%* *NSS +50%* *MP REGEN [4]*
HP: 97/100
MP: 9/70
Atk: 27 --- 30 --- 39
Def: 18
Int: 8
Spr: 16 --- 18
Move: 6 cells

Auza (Oblivion Witch) *MP REGEN [6]* *NSS +50%* *PROTECT* *DOUBLECAST* *CHR +15%*
HP: 65/65
MP: 49/120
Atk: 3
Def: 14
Int: 23 --- 30
Spr: 23
Move: 2 cells

Clark (Possessed Soldier) *SEALED*
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Lawrence (Possessed Soldier) *SEALED*
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Giles (Possessed Soldier) *KO*

Dart (Possessed Soldier) *KO*

Hunter (Possessed Espionage Expert) *EVADE +15%* *SEALED*
HP: 410/410
MP: 225/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Scope (Possessed Espionage Expert) *KO*

Klein moves to E4.

The enemies that at least had a chance to fight back no longer had one as they succumbed to the might of Auza's restraining magic.  There was absolutely no hope for them now.  It was a terrible mistake for the possessed beings to attack the group.  Klein advanced on the nearest soldier and laid into him, the lights on his sword flashing as they did, the light growing a bit weaker as the magic started to fade, but the effects would still be felt.  Two more quick slashes were woven fluidly into the combo before both of his weapons were airborne.  He caught each one in the opposite hand that it had been in and dealt a vicious blow to the soldier knowing there was nothing he could do to evade it.  More sword strokes came to follow and the blood coating the surface of his blades thickened, dripping onto the ground and quenching the thirst of the earth.  These men were naught but fodder now, and for some reason, it just made Klein even more sad.  It was great that victory was at hand for there were larger fish to fry, but he couldn't help but think that these humans were once humans and now they had lost their free will to demons.  At the end of the day it was important to remember that they hadn't chosen the path that led them to the demise at the hands of himself and the others; it was a path that was chosen for them.

Klein attacks Clark!  4 hits!  66 Holy Dmg! CRITICAL!!  44 Holy Dmg!  44 Holy Dmg!  66 Holy Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)
---Klein links Trick Blade!  3 hits!  80 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  53 Dmg!  80 Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)

MP: 11/55

Klein attacks Clark!  4 hits!  44 Holy Dmg!  44 Holy Dmg!  66 Holy Dmg! CRITICAL!!  44 Holy Dmg! (ATK)

Henry moves to H3.

Henry uses Brother! [Summons Vincent to G3][Henry is removed from battle]

MP: 3/90

"I hate to waste your gift, Miss Auza, but I believe I've outlived my usefulness here," Henry said as he strode forward to get closer to the sealed enemies.  There was no threat of danger so no healing would be needed, and his usable mana reservoir had been nearly completely tapped out.  Even with Auza's regenerative magics working to cleanse the poison of the used mana in order for it to be renewed, it was still not enough at this point.  He came to a stop near Klein and a green whirlwind enveloped him.  This was it.  He didn't particularly care for the book realm, but he had to do what he had to do, and at this point, Vincent would be of much aid to their cause when it came to dealing damage.  With a full mana reservoir at his disposal, things would go far more quickly for the group.  Henry's form finally vanished and the wind was whisked into the book while a second wind rushed out of the pages and took a new form, no doubt the form of his brother, Vincent.

"Wise choice, oh darling brother."

Vincent appeared as the wind about his form dissipated and the book slammed shut, landing in his hands as if that was where it truly belonged.  Scythe in hand, Vincent surveyed the field.  Child's play.  All the enemies were severely debilitated.  They were no better than practice dummies at this point.  Well, there was never anything wrong with getting some practice in.  "Iceborn wanderer robbed of life!  Consecrate your vicious greed and come forth to assert your prominence over the living!"  A blast of chilled wind blew through the area and from out of the ground erupted several pillars of ice which promptly shattered revealing the magnificently dressed visage of the lich.  Graced with much wealth in the living realm, the only thing he was greedy for now was the flesh of the living.  And the blood.  The warm, warm blood.  "Have your way with them."  The command was simple, and for the lich who may have been a bit arrogant, he wasn't going to disobey it, for it wanted to end the lives of the men standing before it.

Vincent uses Summon Lich! [Lich summoned to F3]

MP: 84/90

"Well at least he didn't say anything to us," Macha muttered under her breath at Vincent's appearance with a cat-like grin upon her face, her eyes darting to her next intended target which so happened to be her apprentice's target as well.

Macha moves to D5.

"Shall I aid you, apprentice?" the blademaster cooed slyly as she twirled about, launching strike after graceful strike upon her helpless foe.  From up close, she could see how disconcerted Klein was about this dilemma.  It was different than tackling the thieves--they stole from others and undoubtedly killed some of them.  These men were being commanded to do horrible things against their will which was something Macha certainly didn't agree with.  But instead of feeling down about it, she would free these men of a lifetime of servitude through death and clear the obstacles in her way in order to take down the cause of this forced slavery.  She would eliminate the demon who was threatening to steep this area into chaos.  Already she was figuring out what this demon's plan was.  It was easy to stir conflict when you had soldiers from each faction as your pawns.  He could set up war in a heartbeat; it was insane.  That kind of demonic power...  Macha gripped her blade more tightly, her grin fading into a straight line, a dangerous gleam in her eye.  What would they be up against this time?  Aurea was one thing, but this demon seemed far more malevolent.  Regardless, she was definitely up to the challenge, but she worried about her apprentice.  His heart needed to be led in the right direction, and it was her job to make sure it was set on its way.

Macha attacks Clark!  3 hits!  39 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

Clark takes 41 Dmg!

HP: 334/375

R-Ability Battle Harden activates! [User DEF +15%]

Clark takes 307 Dmg!

HP: 27/375

Chapter 03: Harsh Welcome

Location: Naik Dataran - Sihirian Plains

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~In The Way~

{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } A
{ } { } { } {H} { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } { } {C} {M} {L} { } { } { } D
{ } { } { } {K} { } { } { } { } { } E
{ } { } {L} { } { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } {V} { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } I
{ } { } { } { } {A} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Klein's Focus has 1 turn left.

Auza's Doublecast has 2 turns left.

Klein's Rising Tension has 3 turns left.

Klein's Explosive Climax has 3 turns left.

Auza's Protect has 3 turns left.

Klein's Immunity fades.

Macha's Immunity fades.

Klein's Blazing Jet fades.

Klein's Seal Release has 1 turn left.

Macha's Seal Release has 1 turn left.

Klein's MP Regen has 3 turns left.

Macha's MP Regen has 3 turns left.

Auza's Seal Release has 2 turns left.

Enemy Phase.

Clark is Sealed!

Lawrence is Sealed!

Hunter is Sealed!

{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } A
{ } { } { } {H} { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } { } {C} {M} {L} { } { } { } D
{ } { } { } {K} { } { } { } { } { } E
{ } { } {L} { } { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } {V} { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } I
{ } { } { } { } {A} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Clark is Sealed for 1 more turn.

Lawrence is Sealed for 1 more turn.

Hunter is Sealed for 1 more turn.

Player Phase 6!

Klein (Apprentice Blademaster) *POWER STANCE* *PDO +10%* *CHR +50%* *NSS +50%* *CHD +25%* *HASTE* *MP REGEN [3]*
HP: 55/95
MP: 14/55
Atk: 28 --- 31 --- 34 --- 44
Def: 18 --- 20
Int: 15
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Henry (Storyteller) *BOOK*

Spoiler:

Vincent (Necromancer) *CHR +15%*
HP: 55/55
MP: 84/90
Atk: 11
Def: 8
Int: 21 --- 24
Spr: 11
Move: 2 cells

Lich (Lich) *MDO +20%*
HP: 65/65
MP: 120/120
Atk: 3 --- 4
Def: 14 --- 15
Int: 24 --- 26
Spr: 15 --- 17
Move: 2 cells

Macha (Blademaster) *CHR +35%* *EVADE +25%* *NSS +50%* *MP REGEN [4]*
HP: 97/100
MP: 13/70
Atk: 27 --- 30 --- 39
Def: 18
Int: 8
Spr: 16 --- 18
Move: 6 cells

Auza (Oblivion Witch) *MP REGEN [6]* *NSS +50%* *PROTECT* *DOUBLECAST* *CHR +15%*
HP: 65/65
MP: 54/120
Atk: 3
Def: 14
Int: 23 --- 30
Spr: 23
Move: 2 cells

Clark (Possessed Soldier) *SEALED* *CRITICAL*
HP: 27/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25 --- 29
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Lawrence (Possessed Soldier) *SEALED*
HP: 375/375
MP: 155/155
Atk: 25
Def: 25
Int: 13
Spr: 13
Move: 3 cells

Giles (Possessed Soldier) *KO*

Dart (Possessed Soldier) *KO*

Hunter (Possessed Espionage Expert) *EVADE +15%* *SEALED*
HP: 410/410
MP: 225/225
Atk: 26
Def: 15
Int: 10
Spr: 20
Move: 4 cells

Scope (Possessed Espionage Expert) *KO*

Klein moves to A4.

The soldier he had just laid into was near death, and leaving it to Vincent and his creepy cold skeleton thing, he dodged around the man and focused on the cloaked figure behind him figuring he would be easier to destroy...as much as he hated to think about that.  Would there be an end to this conflict?  He could really use a break...  He came to a halt using his enhanced speed to wind up behind his new target.  With a heavy heart, his blade cut many wounds into the man's back, and the blood seeped out over his clothing, leaking upon the ground again.  Whoever came to this spot after them would surely be aware of the violence that took place.  The onslaught did not end there.  Again, two slashes and a switch of blade hands for a final slash, followed with more slashes.  Would his master at least be proud of him for being efficient at the blade?  No, not even thoughts of his master's pride would be able to cheer him up now.  Not now.

Klein attacks Hunter!  4 hits!  66 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  44 Dmg!  66 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  66 Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)
---Klein links Trick Blade!  53 Dmg!  80 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  80 Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK)

MP: 4/55

Klein attacks Hunter!  4 hits!  66 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  66 Dmg! CRITICAL!!  44 Dmg!  44 Dmg! (ATK)

"There are no souls more wicked than my own.  Bow before me."

The darkness was quick to surge from the soil of the ground below the untouched soldier in the distance.  Vincent's gaze didn't even fall upon his target as the shadows slowly wrapped around their victim's body, strangling the very life from its form.  Demonically possessed soldiers?  Pathetic.  What sort of demons were they?  They had to be some of the lowest form if this was all that they could manage with decent vessels.  It was almost saddening.  Was there really some bigshot demon leading this charade?  Because he must not realize that if this was what he was relying on, his plan was going to be dismantled by the Goody Two-Shoes Squad in no time flat.

Vincent casts Dark Restraint on Lawrence!  31 Dark Dmg! (INT) [Target ATK -20%][Target subject to further damage]

MP: 68/90

Vincent waits.

"Lich, pick off the weak one."

Lich casts Icy Grip on Clark!  42 Ice Dmg! (INT) [Chance of Immobilize]

MP: 106/120

As commanded, the lich raised a skeletal hand at the severely weakened soldier and watched as ice erupted from the ground around the soldier's legs, not that it mattered.  There was no point in trapping what was already trapped.  All the lich wished for this man now was death.

Lich moves to D3.

Macha moves to D7.

Macha attacks Lawrence!  3 hits!  49 Dark Dmg!  74 Dark Dmg! CRITICAL!!  49 Dark Dmg! (ATK)
---Macha links Crescent Slash!  77 Dmg! CRITICAL!! (ATK) [Chance of Bleeding]

MP: 3/70

The disheartening that was taking place within Klein was intensifying and it broke Macha's heart.  She danced along the ground beautifully, never missing a step as she dodged around the man being crushed by the shadows, landing gracefully on his other side, her blade slicing through the man with the power of darkness.  She finished with grace, a slicing crescent that caused blood to splatter from the man's side but it did not matter how much he bled.  He was finished, and the sooner the better.  My apprentice can't take much more of this.  We must get to Sihir, Macha thought as she resumed her fluid stance, ready to strike and dodge at will.  She would be ready for anything, but there wasn't anything to worry about now.  In reality, she didn't have much to worry about when it came to her well-being, but that was of little relevance at the moment.

Clark takes 29 Dmg!

Clark KO!

Lawrence takes 42 Dmg!

HP: 333/375

R-Ability Battle Harden activates! [User DEF +15%]

Lawrence takes 113 Dmg!

HP: 220/375

Lawrence evades Bleeding!

Lawrence is relieved of his possession!

Lawrence passes out!

Hunter takes 510 Dmg!

Hunter KO!

Chapter 03: Harsh Welcome

Location: Naik Dataran - Sihirian Plains

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~In The Way~

{ } { } { } {K} { } { } { } { } { } A
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } {L} { } { } { } {M} { } { } D
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } E
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } {V} { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } { } { } { } { } {A} { } { } { } I
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

All enemies have been defeated!
CHAPTER COMPLETE!!

EXPERIENCE:

+42 - Possessed Soldier x3
+36 - Possessed Espionage Expert x2
+2 - Player Phase completed less than 10
+2 - No D-Abilities used
+2 - No Player Character KO
+2 - No Items used

TOTAL EXP GAIN: 86

Klein: 73/122 --- 159/122
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 37/122

Henry: 82/122 --- 168/122
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
JOB PROMOTION!!
3 Stat Points gained!
2 Specialized Skill Points gained!
Next Level: 46/122

Vincent: 46/81 --- 132/81
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 51/81

Macha: 49/122 --- 135/122
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 13/122

Auza: 87/122 --- 173/122
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 51/122

Skill Points Awarded!

+1: Klein, Henry, Vincent, Macha, Auza

The Party receives 694 Gold!

Gold Cat rakes in 69 more Gold!

Items found:

---Rose Emblem x9
---Vile Poison x2

Edit your profiles, please~ Update will come shortly.

The scene was a devastating one. Most of the Elendian soldiers had not survived the onslaught unfortunately, their bodies too abused to be rescued and their souls having passed on to the next life, at least freed of their demonic oppression. However, one soul was lucky enough to be saved before his body could be destroyed, and he look up at the group now, their weapons covered in blood, sweat upon their brow from the heat of battle. He trembled. These people were monsters. Neither him or his brigade members had been trained to deal with fighters as powerful as they were, not that he had wanted to come toe to toe with them. Most of his memories were gone, but bits and pieces would flash through his mind from time to time. How had he landed in the situation in the first place? That was something that was completely lost to him. He scrambled back a bit wondering if he should run away, but he found himself pinned to the ground as a dark blade sliced through his mail and undershirt--there was no escaping. Looking up, he noticed an extremely beautiful woman holding the sword that had him trapped. She looked rather familiar...could it really be?!

"M-Macha the Tempest. From the legends," Lawrence, the last remaining soldier, gasped as he came to the realization.

"I'm more popular than I know," Macha smirked playfully, but her eyes were quick to hone in on Auza who was skilled enough to save this one fellow. "Care to do the interrogating?" she directed towards the shorter girl. Sure Macha could have lacerated this poor chap to bits if he answered some questions wrong, but Auza had a presence about her--an intimidating one. As she grew stronger, you could feel it as if she had an aura about her and boy had it grown since they had first met in the manor a few days ago. With the ordeals they faced, it was no surprise that her power escalated in such a short amount of time. Regardless, if they wanted a bloodless interrogation, this was the best course of action.

"You should let me have a word with him. A few wrong answers and I've landed myself a test subject for some new dark experiments," Vincent blurted out suddenly, taking a few steps forward while stroking the spine of the Apocrypha. No doubt Henry wasn't thrilled with Vincent's plan but he knew that there was no way they would go for it, so he didn't intervene. Vincent needed the fresh air, to be sure.

"Be quiet, you fool, if I wanted him treated like a lab rat I would not have saved him from the demon in the first place." Auza shot a cold glare over at Vincent when he spoke. There would be no need for any more blood to be spilled here. Auza raised her beads as she drew closer to Lawrence, leaving them hanging in the air behind her when she was right up next to him. For a minute, Auza closed her eyes, then allowed her consciousness to expand outward, becoming a physical barrier that surrounded her, Macha, and Lawrence. The barrier shimmered for a second, then became a solid mass. "That is no longer necessary," Auza said to Macha, nodding at her blade which pinned Lawrence to the ground.

Auza moved her attention to Lawrence, not really giving him any sort of expression, but she knew that her magical aura was strong enough to be felt, even by those not attuned to magic. "I don't need anyone to tell me whether or not you lie. I do not need anyone to punish you for lying. That is not necessary," Auza told Lawrence, meaning for her words to address her allies as well as the terrified soldier. "These next few moments are going to be hard for you to take in, I suggest you prepare yourself."

"My name is Auza. I am what the lesser minds would call a witch. My group is part of very few people who know what is going on in this land, allow me to share that with you." To Lawrence, Auza explained the general basics of what was going on in Berbatu. Auza did not go into very much detail, other than that the war was being instigated by a demon. She paused to give him breath, and expected him to remain silent throughout. When she finished her explanation, Auza offered something to him.

"I was able to save you from the possession of the demon, Veer," she began, "but you likely have little to no memory of how that happened or what happened after. However, your eyes have seen what happened, and I would very much like to find out." Auza reached out with her hand so that her palm stopped right in front of Lawrence's eyes. All he could see was her hand, small as it was, but soft. For a moment, she paused there.

"Divination is a type of magic where the caster, myself, reaches forward with her own soul and touches the soul of her intended target. It is a very...intimate experience. Some call divination Soul Touching because of that. Through this method, I can see your past. Where you came from, what you have accomplished or caused in life, even what you plan to do in the future. I will be able to see your deepest secrets and your darkest temptations. It forces introspection upon you, but you should know that I am bound by the Law of Magic, signed in blood, to never disclose the personal secrets I discover through divination, even with permission. No matter what I see in your life, I can never speak of it to anyone. This means that if I divine your soul, you will not only have to live through your own life a second time, but you will have to speak to us about how you became possessed and what happened after. This is the most reliable way of restoring your memory, but I will not perform it without your permission. It is your choice." Auza finally stopped, resting herself from having to speak for so long.

"I don't like to do divination because it takes a long time and requires my full concentration. I have to rely on others to keep me safe," Auza said, glancing at Macha who was in the barrier with her. "That is why you are in here, and he," Auza nodded at Vincent, "is out there. My barrier should be enough to stop any of his weak magic from entering, but I can't say the same for anything else that might come along."

"How about a test then?" Vincent growled angrily and was surprised that he did not become enveloped in the green wind that signified his return to the book considering what he was planning. Henry was going to let this go? All the better. His hand became shrouded in darkness and he waved it through the air sending a bolt surging along the ground towards the barrier. A grin formed on his face, eyes gleaming with delight as it traveled. Oh what he wouldn't give for that barrier to shatter and all of them succumb to the curse of his dark magic. The bolt finally collided with the barrier...only to be dissipated instantly. The barrier did not even waver in the slightest. Vincent's eye twitched as he tried to figure out what had just happened. Nothing? No result at all? The look of shock melted into the look of a contemplating scientist.

"Are you insane?!" Klein shouted, drawing his blades and brandishing them at Vincent though the man appeared to be completely unfazed.

"No, I was testing to make sure it was good and sturdy. After all, if my 'weak' magics had been able to penetrate it, then it would have been no good right?" Vincent shot back sarcastically, waving a hand as if to dismiss the swordsman. "Put those away before you hurt yourself." Vincent's lich was still lurking nearby and shot a deadly gaze towards Klein causing the man to shrink back a bit.

Macha had taken her blade out of the man's armor, effectively unpinning him, though with the barrier Auza conjured, he would not be going anywhere anyway. Lawrence looked from her to Auza who was explaining how he had been demonically possessed and how the whole of this new continent was at threat of demonic activity. To think that there was a powerful demon here in the Naik Dataran...it was frightening. "You can do whatever you need to do to me!" the soldier exclaimed, a look of scared determination on his face. "I...I want to be able to help in any way I can. To think that my companions could meet the same fate as I, or worse, the fate of my squadron. I'd rather not think about it. And I don't want our settlements to go to war over something so silly as territory disputes. So do what you must," he explained, granting Auza the permission she was seeking.

"As I said," Auza remarked, not even lifting an eyebrow in Vincent's direction. "Weak magic." The bolt of energy he sent didn't even touch the barrier Auza had erected. The aura it was emitting destroyed the bolt before it could even connect. It might have given off the illusion of being hit, but Auza knew better. Any magic that collides with other magic is going to cause a reaction. A shimmer, a glow of light, anything really. Vincent's bolt was evaporated by Auza's aura. There was nothing else to say about it, Vincent's magic was weak. She probably didn't even need the barrier if he was the only threat.

Auza turned back to the soldier and gave him one of her very rare smiles, small though it was, hardly noticeable. He was brave to be willing to undergo divination, not many people would choose to go through this sort of ordeal. "Then the divination will begin immediately," Auza informed, drawing even closer to the soldier. Standing over him, she raised her finger, bringing Lawrence to his knees so that she could grasp both of his ears with her tiny hands. She closed her eyes. "Now close your eyes," Auza breathed slowly, deliberately. "And sleep."

For a few minutes, nothing seemed to happen until a magic tear began to form on Auza's forehead. The line of magic ripped through the physical world and slowly opened, revealing a golden eye that looked directly forward. Auza herself was bathed in a golden light, very unlike the dark magic she was used to be seen using. It gave her a sort of radiance that was both captivating and awe-inspiring. The divination had begun.

Lawrence nodded and did just as Auza had said, falling into a deep slumber rather quickly, his body exhausted from the strenuous fighting and demonic possession. His mind was entirely open, and his soul even more so laid bare before the witch. All of his life was open to viewing. He was the son of a wealthy noblewoman who had married a high-ranking soldier in the Elendian army. His three older brothers had joined the military and when it came his turn to become of age, he followed in their footsteps in hopes of bringing more prestige to the family name. His father was good to him, and it made him proud to see his sons, especially Lawrence who wasn't exactly as athletic and spry as his brothers, aiming towards such high goals to serve their countries. Auza saw beautiful landscapes--a city of flowers, tall mountain peaks capped in snow, an elaborate and well-kept cemetery, a desert land shrouded in illusions. All of the places where he had visited, Auza saw. His smiling face. His bravery in battle. His tears when his comrades fell and there was nothing he could do about it. His cries of anguish from the loss. And his cries of pain when he was wounded. All of it was fleeting however, until what Auza was truly searching for finally arrived. There were the moments where Lawrence first stepped foot in Berbatu, and his interesting trek to Bunga, the Elendian settlement. When he got there, he was told that the general wanted to speak with him and his squadron which had indeed earned some degree of prestige for their conquests back on their home continent. When inside the tent, however, they were sealed in by a powerful magic barrier, and the general was not the general at all, but a vicious demon. To Auza, however, his body and visage was completely obscured by a black mist, and when he spoke, the words were incomprehensible.

The members of the squadron knew something was afoot and bravely drew their weapons but it was far too late. The black demons soared through the tent and flew into the mouth of each soldier, their eyes completely turning black upon successful possession. It was only then that the demon general's words became crystal clear. "You will lay waste to the Sihirian settlement and aggravate their soldiers. You will give them cause to retaliate, and once things have started with them, you will do the same to the Hutan settlement. You will not stop until full war has escalated and the Naik Dataran feasts on your blood and the blood of both your allies and foes. The grass will grow crimson and all hell will break loose." It was a deep, commanding voice with a very persuasive tone to it like that of a salesman's. But the demon general did not need to offer any compensation to the possessed. They would do what he said and take his words at face value as absolute law. It was then that the dream became blurry, and the divination was unfortunately forced to an end. The last thing Auza would see were the two amber eyes glowing like a stoked flame gazing directly into her own being as if it knew. As if he knew she was watching. As if he WANTED her to watch. A grin of sharpened fangs and the loud sound of crunching bones severed the connection.

Auza flinched when the connection broke, against her will no less. She released her hold on Lawrence and allowed him to sit at rest, for, as all subject of divination did, he had fallen asleep. The experience of going through memories was a very intense experience that required a lot of energy. Had she been younger, Auza would not have been able to perform the Divination without the significant assistance of a magical item.

Auza looked down at her hands and saw them covered in blackened dust. The possession was much more invasive than she originally thought. A simple exorcism just wasn't enough at this point, the demon they were facing was a strong one. Still, the possession should not prevent her from waking Lawrence, nor should it impair his memory. Auza raised her hand over the soldier and channeled a bit of magic into him in order to rouse him.

At the same time, Auza lowered her barrier, allowing Macha her freedom again. It was likely the woman would have been able to break free on her own, but Auza did not really have to worry about that. Even without focusing on her barrier, Vincent's weak magic could never reach her. Auza's magic far eclipsed his at this present moment, and that gap would only get wider as Auza gained more power.

"Arise, Lawrence," Auza commanded, lifting the man to his feet with her magic. "Awaken."

Lawrence stirred but was very sluggish and seemed extremely tired, even more so than he had been prior to the divination. Blinking his eyes drowsily, he came to rest his gaze on Auza's visage, but didn't know what to make of her expression. What had she seen? Was the ritual a success? "How...was...was I any help...?" were all the words he could manage to get out of his mouth before falling forward. Macha was quick to catch the man, slinging him onto her back with ease that was actually not expected of a woman of her physique, but this was a legendary blademaster so perhaps it wasn't as surprising after all.

"It seems that the procedure took quite a bit out of him, not to mention he's been through a lot," Macha was quick to speak, aiming her cat-like grin towards Auza. It seemed now that she smiled more than Klein, and that was uncharacteristic entirely. It was most likely due to the fact that she had already lived so much life and experienced so much that she was easily able to brush anything off of her shoulders. Many a burden did she carry, so why let anything else weigh her down? She needed to remain mobile and spry; there was no need for that extra baggage. "Might I suggest we try to find the settlement, Auza dear? He could probably use some rest."

"Needless to say we're going to have to keep an eye on the sap," Vincent spoke up unexpectedly, approaching Macha but veering away from Auza, keeping as much distance as he could from her.

"That we are, our little necrophiliac," Macha cooed and patted Vincent on the head which caused an immediate look of displeasure to fall upon his face accompanied by a hot blush.

"I only control the dead; I don't have relations with them!" he spat out angrily, raising his voice for what had to be the first time since they had met.

"I suppose it was too much to hope for that he would be fit to talk," Auza sighed, rubbing her temples together. She herself had become quite exhausted herself from the divination. "I won't be able to do another divination for awhile." Auza glanced for an instant at the others. They would never be able to perform a divination. None of them had the appropriate amount of magical power or potential. If she were stronger, a divination would not be so strenuous on her.

"Let's get moving," Auza said, a bit louder so that she could make sure everyone could hear her. "I'd like to get to the settlement before someone's idiocy attracts more enemies." Auza picked herself up, brushing off what dust could be found on her dress. There was nothing left to do here other than to move on. The quicker they got to the settlement, the faster they could deal with this menace. Auza, at least, understood some of what was going on. If Wallace showed up in the settlement, this information could be useful for him as well.

Klein had been awfully silent and deep in thought which was extremely uncharacteristic of him. Even when Auza announced that it would be wise to move on and get Lawrence somewhere safe, he didn't really respond. Macha, with a concerned look on her face, strode gracefully over towards him and gave him a tap on the shoulder. A playful smile met Klein as he gazed up at her face, but he didn't say anything. He just let himself get led along as they departed. Macha still had Lawrence on her back and stopped a second to readjust him. She turned her head for a moment to poke her tongue out at Vincent who was positively steaming at the moment, but he seemed to regain his cool, and it also appeared as though Henry wasn't going to take his place. Perhaps he thought Vincent needed some exercise.

Regardless, the group set off across the grassy foothills of the Naik Dataran. The scenery remained monotonous, and as they continued on, Macha actually became worried that there was some sort of sorcery afoot, perhaps keeping them cycling through the same illusion over and over again, but a seeing a small collection of huts and houses in the distance, she realized that was a silly thought. That sort of thing only ever happened in story books. It was the Sihirian settlement for sure, for a flag waving about in the center of the settlement above all the smaller huts and buildings bore the seal of Dalmaschior: a vertical axe and a scimitar and rapier forming a cross over it with a golden ribbon swirling about it and a few other minor fanciful designs. It was here the group sped up their pace, both eager to reach safety, yet anxious to see what awaited them in the settlement.

Upon getting closer to the entrance, they could notice that there weren't really that many actual houses and that most of the buildings were small huts composed of some thin wood paneling with straw-thatched roofs. They weren't rundown though. Whoever built the huts did a wonderful job in making them look sturdy and comfortable. Several of them even had brick chimneys coming out the roofs, smoke spiraling off upwards into the sky. The smoke remained to be the strongest aroma, but there was also a hint of wildflowers and baked goods creating a smoky pungent smell that was sure to make the mouth water.

Klein's stomach grumbled as they came to a stop in front of the village, and he was about to make a comment when the air around the group began to distort. People could be seen walking around in the settlement, but as the air wavered, their movements slowed until they stopped completely, seemingly frozen in time. The area grew darker, tinted violet, dark blue and forest green, the colors mixing and dancing together forming beautiful combinations. A light purple, almost white rift appeared in the airspace in front of them, and it widened, the top slowly heading upwards with the bottom heading towards the ground until a full-sized portal emerged, and a tall woman strode out of it. She was beyond gorgeous, her porcelain skin possessing absolutely no imperfections, and the black eyeliner and shadow she wore accentuated her engaging and enticing violet eyes. Her long raven black hair was still, as the breeze seemed to be also halted in time by whatever effect she had placed upon the area.

Klein blinked several times, his mouth hanging open in surprise while his mind tried to comprehend what was going on. He stared at the woman's dress which seemed to be magical as the silky material shimmered causing the bird upon it to seemingly fly around on its surface...but that was impossible wasn't it? What kind of seamstress could accomplish such a feat?

"I made the dress myself," she stated suddenly, startling Klein so much that he fell backwards, arms flailing until he landed on the ground on his behind. Her voice had been so clear and precise, pleasant to the ears. Every word she spoke was a part of a song she weaved together but didn't sing. She looked down at the trembling Klein but was unfazed by his reaction. "What a curious lot you are," she continued, hesitating before the word curious as if searching for the right word. She eyed the entire group now, taking them all in. Her eyes rested on the book Vincent held as if she could tell what was within--another person.

Auza had no time or patience for distractions. Her mind was focused, set on reaching the settlement in the shortest amount of time possible. Right now, their primary goal was to get Lawrence to a proper healer, and it was possible he needed a more in-depth exorcism than what Auza could provide on the run. She would be sure to do a thorough search for demonic magic and remove it carefully. The information he held was very valuable, she couldn't afford to lose it.

Granted, she already knew everything that Lawrence did. The Divination was helpful in that sense, but she could never share that information with anyone. Bound by the Law of Magic, signed in blood and all that. If she ever spoke of the Divinations she performed, she would be immediately silenced. That was one reason she didn't like Divination. Soul Touching was far too intimate of an experience, it took up a metric ton of magical energy, and she risked losing her ability to do magic. But the information one could learn from Divination was never false. It is impossible to lie to a witch.

Speaking of witches, Auza began to feel the magic before the world around them was affected. And they were so close to the settlement, too. This was...a very strange appearance. It appeared that time around them had come to a stop as well. This did not bode well. This woman wanted something from them.

"I do not like wasting time, but in this case, it seems that time is not passing. Or, at the very least, it is not moving very quickly," Auza sighed, glancing around the area. She examined the woman who had appeared in front of them. "Now, who are you and what do you want?"

"Terse, very much so," the woman replied, her violet eyes instantly locking onto the shorter woman's adamant ones, completely unfazed by her scrutiny.  She took a few steps forward, the air around her wavering as she did but the flow of time refused to resume.  She waved a hand elegantly crafted fan, and when she opened it, she could see the awe in Klein and Henry's eyes at least.  The span of it was covered with a scenic night sky that shifted just like her dress did, revealing different planets, galaxies, and star configurations.  It was beautiful.  "Allow me to introduce myself.  I am the witch of Autumn's Trace and I hail from a world that is not this one--an unnamed world for now, but the country in which I reside is named Valresch.  I made my home in a comfy village located in a woodland which is constantly plagued with the appearance of autumn, hence the village's name: Autumn's Trace.  I am one of the three most powerful witches in existence, the Reality Witch.  I am one who holds power over what is real and what is not."  She paused for a moment allowing for her words to sink in.  The women of the group seemed to take the information well enough, but she noticed the men were still quite captivated and awestruck.  A smirk crossed her face as if this amused her.

"On my home world, I grant wishes to those who seek me out, and most do not know that I grant those wishes by altering reality to make them true.  However, these wishes come at a price, a price which I also exact through reality manipulation.  However, this is neither here nor there," the witch said, shrugging her shoulders, her dressing rippling unexpectedly as if it were made of water.  Her eyes locked onto Auza once more whereas before she had let them linger about the group as a whole.  "I have come to this world seeking the one who calls herself the Oblivion Witch, perhaps not in name just yet, but as her calling."