Tales of Alidaire: Armageddon

Chapter 03: Heaven's Tower

Location: Heaven's Tower - Entrance

Objective: Defeat Rio!

Background: ~Battle of Worth~

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

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 55/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 45/45
MP: 50/50
DD: 1/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 12
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Rio (Tower's Guard)
HP: 120/120
MP: 85/85
DD: --/--
Atk: 12
Def: 10
Int: 10
Spr: 6
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Tower Door (cannot be occupied)

{t} - Tower Wall (cannot be occupied)

{o} - Obelisk (cannot be occupied)

{f} - Fence (cannot be occupied)

Player Phase 1!

Alyssia moves to E6.

"Let's get right to it. Hope you know you're in for a hasty defeat, good sir," Alyssia chirped confidently before rising into the air and flying towards the tower guard. She came to a halt near his side and landed firmly, but quickly. Feet firmly on the ground, she raised her blade into the air causing it to waver, the distortion spreading. Horrid wailing began to fill the air. Such agony could be felt in the very soul of those who heard it, ripping away at the mind. To Alyssia, however, it was a glorious sound--one she was very used to. Grinning evilly, she lunged into the tower guard with her blade before withdrawing it quickly, staying light on her feet. She turned and slashed diagonally before dipping down and pulling the blade upwards. Spinning once more, she slashed at the fellow twice, pulling back one last time for a final thrust. The wailing halted as her attack was complete, and the air became still once more.

Alyssia uses Dance of the Dead on Rio! 6 hits! 14 Dmg per hit! (ATK) [Target SPR -20%][Chance of Apathy]

MP: 29/45

Cerberus moves to G4.

Cerberus took a few large steps closer towards the tower guard. His master was setting him up to unleash some of his magic. That affirmed, he opened each of his mouths, blazing jets of flame lashing about from within. The shapeless fire condensed into large spheres in each mouth, and when they were complete, Cerberus let them fly through the air. The middle one struck fast and hard while the outer two went off at a tangent before curving inwards to strike their targets, exploding in decently sized bursts of fire.

Cerberus uses Tri-Fireball on Rio! 3 hits! 15 Fire Dmg per hit! (INT) [Chance of Burn]

MP: 25/35

Lightning *-10% Mp Cost*
Hp: 55/55
Mp: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra
Hp: 45/45
Mp: 50/50
DD: 1/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 12
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning shifts to Ravager!

Lightning's R-Ability, Power-Shift, activates! +50% Atk and Int for 3 Turns!

Lightning quickly shifted the aura that surrounded her, becoming the typical magic-based fighter she was commonly seen taking on. This was all for good reason of course, the enemies that they had been fighting recently seemed rather resilient to physical based attacks. While surely the Tower's guardian would have more balanced defenses, Lightning could tell a magical offense would be better. Not to mention Alyssia had already made the angel's resilience to magic even weaker, so it only made sense to follow through with her usual plan.

Lightning moves to G6!

Lightning was quick to follow her allies into the fray, stopping once she had reached a respectable distance and thrusting her blade down. Sending mana rushing through her system, her gunblade began to shake slightly in her hand; the mana drives within it activating to reduce the mana rushing to the blade. In an instant a spark appeared on the blade and with a quick raise of the blade, a bolt of lightning struck the Tower Guard.

Lightning casts Thunder on Rio! 20 Int Lightning Damage! Chance of Paralyze!

Lightning's S-Ability, Overwhelm, activates! +30% Total Damage Output!

Lightning's R-Ability, Manasiphon, activates! 14 Mp recovered!

"Do be careful everyone!" Terra called, choosing to remain in his rather comfortable position. His allies had all chosen to rush right in, and while he trusted them to handle themselves, he did not wish to follow their example. As the others likely knew, and much to his displeasure, he was rather fragile; after falling in previous battles he certainly did not feel like being knocked unconscious.

So, he stuck in his spot, spinning around in a familiar fashion with blade at the ready. "Prepare yourself!" He called out to his allies as he finished his revolution, stopping at a perfect circle. With a quick thrust of the blade, a large stream of water geysered towards the angel, knocking him back into the Tower.

Terra casts Torrente on Column 5! Rio is hit! 17 Int Water Damage! Knocks Target 3 Cells Back!

Lightning *-10% Mp Cost* *Power-Shift (3)*
Hp: 55/55
Mp: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15 --> 23
Def: 13
Int: 11 --> 17
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra
Hp: 45/45
Mp: 38/50
DD: 1/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 12
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Rio takes 97 Dmg!

HP: 23/120

Rio is forced to C5!

Rio crashes into the Tower Door! 6 Piercing Dmg!

HP: 17/120

Rio lands in D5!

Rio evades Apathy!

Rio evades Burn!

Rio evades Paralysis!

S-Ability Bide activates! [Damage Taken Stock +97]

Chapter 03: Heaven's Tower

Location: Heaven's Tower - Entrance

Objective: Defeat Rio!

Background: ~Battle of Worth~

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

Lightning's Power Shift has 2 turns left.

Enemy Phase.

Rio moves to F5.

Rio cringed as he shakily stood back up after being knocked straight into the large tower door. It certainly hadn't felt very good on top of being smashed into full force by each member of the opposition. "Well, she did warn me that a hasty defeat was imminent," he murmured quietly, a gleam appearing in his eye. "However, I am not one to give up so easily! There is always salvation for those who merely ask for it!" The tower guard rushed forward, stopping right in the middle of his foes. Thrusting his sword into the air, blazing columns of light blasted out of the ground, attempting to scathe all of those who were around him. The light created balance; his foes were hurt, and he was healed.

Rio uses Salvation!

Hits Alyssia! 30 Light Dmg! WEAKNESS!! (INT) [MISS]

Hits Cerberus! 30 Light Dmg! WEAKNESS!! (INT)

Hits Lightning! 15 Light Dmg! (INT)

MP: 63/85

Rio is healed! [+45 HP Recovered]

HP: 62/120

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

Rio's SPR Reduction has 2 turns left.

Player Phase 2!

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 29/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 57/80
MP: 25/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 50/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 45/45
MP: 38/50
DD: 2/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 12
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Rio (Tower's Guard) *DAMAGE TAKEN [97]*
HP: 62/120
MP: 63/85
DD: --/--
Atk: 12
Def: 10
Int: 10
Spr: 6 --- 5
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Tower Door (cannot be occupied)

{t} - Tower Wall (cannot be occupied)

{o} - Obelisk (cannot be occupied)

{f} - Fence (cannot be occupied)

Alyssia moves to E5.

Seeing the blazing light starting to form beneath her, Alyssia took to the air quickly and dodged backwards just in time for the light to surge upwards. It missed her completely, and she let out a sigh of relief. It was then that she heard Cerberus's roar of anguish and she angered quickly. Though allying with the light, Cerberus was still a denizen of the darkness; it wasn't good for him, and she knew she would have been in a similar position had she been struck by the light. Keeping the air, she flew behind the tower guard and landed, blade at the ready. "If that's the case, you should ask for a bit more accuracy there, buddy," Alyssia snapped, her weapon becoming coated in an aqueous crimson energy. She lunged into the the guard with a vicious stab before pulling back and landing a trio of furious strikes with as much power as she could muster, counting on the blood of the damned to draw the very blood from the guard's body.

Alyssia uses Bleed For Me on Rio! 4 hits! 20 Dmg per hit! (ATK) [Chance of Bleeding]

MP: 17/45

R-Ability Shade Reflex activates! [Damage taken -1%]

Cerberus moves to F3.

Cerberus uses Deadly Nocturne! Hits Rio! 10 hits! 13 Darkness Dmg per hit! (ATK)

MP: 3/35

The light. It had been so intense that he could not help but shut all six of his eyes in agony and let loose a horrid roar that seemed to shake the very foundations of the area. It was something he didn't wish to experience again. And in order to accomplish that goal for the immediate moment, it was time to end this tower guard once and for all. All of his eyes shot open as the light dissipated. The darkness formed a thin veil around him to protect him from future attacks, but he wouldn't have to worry about that. Raising all of his heads into the air, he bent them all suddenly, mouths open. Streams of darkness spewed out of each into the ground forming a large pool around himself. His eyes glowed a vibrant red as the puddle spread outwards until the tower guard was standing on naught but the shadows. With only one target, the shadows vibrated fiercely beneath the solitary enemy, and from out of the pool, myriad spikes of darkness emerged, solidified. They stabbed the tower guard over and over and over again frantically. When the last one struck, the pool of shadows vanished to reveal the ground, back to normal.

Lightning *-10% Mp Cost* *Power-Shift (3)*
Hp: 50/55
Mp: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15 --> 23
Def: 13
Int: 11 --> 17
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra
Hp: 45/45
Mp: 38/50
DD: 2/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 12
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning moves to F6!

Lightning uses Sparkstrike on Rio! 28 Lightning Atk Damage!

Lightning's R-Ability, Manasiphon, activates! Lightning recovers 9 Mp!

The light had not hurt Lightning as much as it had Cerberus, which had allowed her to shrug it off fairly easily. But the angel was not going to get off that easily. Even though the attack had not hurt her, the tower guard still was going to get it. And so, the soldier dashed the short way over to the guard and slashed him.

"I do believe this is the end." Terra called out, though this time to the tower's guardian. With another graceful spin, the Actor drew blade around in a precise fashion. Once he turned full circle yet again, the boy thrust the blade forward; yet another stream of water flied at the angel.

Terra casts Torrente on Column 5! Rio is hit! 17 Int Water Damage! Knocks Target 3 Cells Back!

Lightning *-10% Mp Cost* *Power-Shift (2)*
Hp: 50/55
Mp: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15 --> 23
Def: 13
Int: 11 --> 17
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra
Hp: 45/45
Mp: 26/50
DD: 2/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 12
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Rio takes 230 Dmg!

Rio OVERKILL!!

Chapter 03: Heaven's Tower

Location: Heaven's Tower - Entrance

Objective: Defeat Rio!

Background: ~Battle of Worth~

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

Rio has been defeated!
CHAPTER COMPLETE!!

EXPERIENCE:

+12 - Rio
+2 - Player Phase completed less than 10
+2 - No D-Abilities used
+2 - No Player KO
+2 - No Items used

TOTAL EXP GAIN: 20

Alyssia: 15/54 --- 35/54
Next Level: 35/54

Cerberus: 0/54 --- 20/54
Next Level: 20/54

Lightning: 9/54 --- 29/54
Next Level: 29/54

Terra: 32/36 --- 52/36
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 16/36

Skill Points Awarded!

+1: Terra
+0: Alyssia, Cerberus, Lightning

The Party receives 56 Gold!

Items found:

---Potion x1
---Guard Chain x1

Edit your profiles, please~ Update will come shortly.

The staggering force of the party's attacks had caused Rio to collapse to the ground. This time, he wasn't so quick to get up. Alyssia crouched down carefully and prodded his arm which elicited a groan from the wounded tower guard. Standing up, Alyssia looked to Lightning for aid. "Think you can patch him up real quick, Commander?" she asked. The doors to the tower were still closed and immoveable, or at least they seemed that way. They would need Rio's help to get inside, but he wasn't in the condition to do much of anything at the moment which was rather problematic.

Cerberus plopped a squat on the ground to rest up. He couldn't care less about the light-wielding tower guard. He wished he could be as evasive as his master, but with his bulk, there was no way he could get out of the way quickly enough. One of the heads glared at the door to the tower. In the depths of his mind, he wondered what kinds of things awaited for them once they were inside.

Lightning nodded, sending a wave of mana over herself that changed her into a magical healer. Clasping both hands together, she took in an array of light before sending it at the fallen Tower Guard. Instantly the light worked on most of his major injuries, only to soon be joined by more light as she casted a basic version of the spell. Instantly his deepest cuts and blackest bruises were eased, and though it would not fix his exhaustion he would at the very least be able to stand.

The Actor's form eased as the man did not get up and attempt to attack them again; he was beaten. However, it seemed that the party would need him to get into the Tower, and in his current condition he was not going to be much help. Just as the boy was about to try to will the light to heal the man however, Lightning had already been put on the job and finished. "Not to rush you," Terra added as the lights faded "but I do believe we shouldn't tarry."

"I second that motion. Yo, guard. Get up," Alyssia said coolly, nudging the form of the healed guard with her foot. This time, she watched as the man stirred from his unconsciousness and rose, standing on his own two feet, albeit a bit wobbly. Alyssia put away her weapon and pointed at the door. "So, looks like we passed your little test. I told you to be ready for a hasty defeat right?" She grinned cheekily here, losing her serious demeanor.

Rio blushed furiously in embarrassment. "It wasn't exactly a fair fight," he murmured, completely defeated. He raised a hand towards the tower and waved it slightly. In response to his gesture, the giant wooden doors opened inwards slowly, nothing but darkness coming from within. "Go on. It's not a straight shot, mind you. Within the tower are even more trials and puzzles, along with dangerous beasts. You should keep your wits sharp and be extremely wary. The tower is a mystical place, and anything could happen there. All I know is that you will appear at the top of the tower when it is time. Good luck." The tower guard bowed his head to the four that had defeated him fair and square. He hoped his warnings would be sufficient.

Alyssia nodded. She didn't like the sound of this tower at all. It sounded like a giant pain in the ass. She waved a hand at Cerberus who barked loudly in response before disappearing into a mass of shadows. His master would call upon him quickly should she need him. With the others in a hurry, she moved into the darkness of the tower, expecting them to follow. They were close to meeting with Torcrea, or at least that's what it felt like. There was no telling how long the tower would delay them.

They traveled along a small, unlit corridor before they finally made it to a large chamber with torches lining the wall. As the last person entered, a door slammed shut behind them, a giant stone slab rising from the floor to block them in. Around the chamber were several large, colored blocks, and upon the stone floor seemed to be indentations that were also colored. In the very middle of the room was a pedestal with some kind of tablet with writing upon it. This must have been their first trial.

Chapter 03-A: The First Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - Ground Floor

Objective: Solve the trial presented by the tower!

Background: ~Ascension~

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

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Stone Slab (cannot be occupied)(cannot pass through)

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Read what has been inscribed upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{b} - Blocks of Various Colors (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Push/Pull (Pushes or pulls target in a certain direction a certain number of cells. Range: Adjacent cell. ATK > 14 - Push/Pull 3 cells. ATK < 15 - Push/Pull 2 cells. Pulling/Pushing does not count as move action.)

{ } - Spaces of Various Colors

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{ } - These spaces do not exist.

Players may start in row H!

Lightning starts at H6!

Terra starts at H5!

Lightning eyed the room looking for some hidden enemy, her hand tightly gripping the hilt of her blade. But when one could not be found, her hand relaxed and she looked around the room at the blocks. A puzzle of some sort, it seemed. While she had been hoping for a fight (as that was much easier to complete), she figured this would not be so bad. The angel had said there were some beasts within this tower, finishing this puzzle would hopefully draw them out so they could continue to prove themselves. Maybe then they could finally meet up with Torcrea.

"It seems this is the first trial." Terra stated the obvious plainly. He looked over at the blocks, and then at the indentations in the ground; the puzzle seemed simple enough. Just put the blocks in the color coordinated spots, correct? Maybe, maybe not; there was a pedestal they could check out to make sure. But the Actor's mind wandered back over to the blocks, a frown spreading on his face. "I don't believe I'll be much help in moving those blocks."

Chapter 03-A: The First Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - Ground Floor

Objective: Solve the trial presented by the tower!

Background: ~Ascension~

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

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 55/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 60/60
MP: 50/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Stone Slab (cannot be occupied)(cannot pass through)

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Read what has been inscribed upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{b} - Blocks of Various Colors (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Push/Pull (Pushes or pulls target in a certain direction a certain number of cells. Range: Adjacent cell. ATK > 14 - Push/Pull 3 cells. ATK < 15 - Push/Pull 2 cells. Pulling/Pushing does not count as move action.)

{ } - Spaces of Various Colors

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{ } - These spaces do not exist.

Player Phase 1!

Alyssia moves to E4.

"Ugh, these kinds of things were never my forte. Leave the block moving to me, Terra. You can be the brains of the operation. Seems simple enough, but I don't trust it. Maybe the tablet has some instructions?" With a shrug of her shoulders, she flew closer to the pedestal, her eyes glued to the stone tablet resting so quaintly upon it. The words upon it were of the ancient language of Alidaire, one she was familiar with. It was the language most widely spoken in Hell. She remained hovering in the air, tracing the words with her finger. "Ah, I got it. It says: 'Opposites attract. Portray this with what has been given to you, and you shall be granted passage.' Oookay, not the clearest instructions. What the hell do they mean?" Alyssia groaned, sinking to the ground. Such a helpful tablet, that was.

Alyssia waits.

Cerberus waits.

His master a bit frustrated, Cerberus knew not what to do. He was about as good at puzzles as his master was. Even if he knew the answer, it would be hard to communicate it to the others. If they got the puzzle wrong, there was no telling what might happen, so the large beast refrained from moving anything until they had the puzzle figured out, and thus he held his ground for the time being, awaiting their call for his brute strength in moving the blocks about.

"Opposites attract..." Terra echoed Alyssia, bringing a hand to his chin, his lower lip soon clamped between his teeth. In a room such as this opposites could mean almost anything. The blocks could require being on the other end of the room, but if that was the case, which direction would they need to be pushed? "If that was the case, then what are the colors for?" He asked himself as glanced at each of the colored blocks and then at the indentations.

He continued to think, looking around the room and after a minute's concentration his eyes shot open fully; the hand that had been on his chin forming a fist that met the palm of the other. "Color. Opposites of Color." He proclaimed, looking at each of the blocks and indentations, there was one for each 'opposite' color. His theory was likely the answer to the puzzle. "As with the light spectrum, the color spectrum has polar ends and opposites. If that has any relevance to this room, which I can only assume it does as we are in a Tower protected by light, then we need to put the blocks in the opposite color indentations. For example, the opposite of green is red, so we put the green block in the red indent and vice versa. Same for yellow and purple."

Lightning moves to G8!

"Then," Lightning spoke up, moving over in the direction of the green block. She readied herself before thrusting her weight against the block full force, knocking it in the direction she had planned for it to go. "This needs to go over there." She continued, pointing over in the direction of the red indentation.

Lightning uses Trigger Command: Push on the Green Block! Moves Green Block to G4!

Chapter 03-A: The First Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - Ground Floor

Objective: Solve the trial presented by the tower!

Background: ~Ascension~

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

Player Phase 2!

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 55/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 60/60
MP: 50/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Stone Slab (cannot be occupied)(cannot pass through)

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Read what has been inscribed upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{b} - Blocks of Various Colors (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Push/Pull (Pushes or pulls target in a certain direction a certain number of cells. Range: Adjacent cell. ATK > 14 - Push/Pull 3 cells. ATK < 15 - Push/Pull 2 cells. Pulling/Pushing does not count as move action.)

{ } - Spaces of Various Colors

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{ } - These spaces do not exist.

Alyssia moves to D2.

"Is that the way it goes? Sounds good to me. Given what we've been given, that's about the only thing that really makes sense," Alyssia commented, flying away from the pedestal to position herself near the large red block. If what Terra said was true, she had to get it to the green indentation on the other side of the room. She touched down to the floor and took hold of the mighty block, dragging it downwards just a bit. It was heavier than she thought, but she managed. She'd have to get on the adjacent side and pull it towards the other side of the room when she recovered from pulling from its original position.

Alyssia uses Trigger Command: Pull on Red Block! [Pulls Red Block to D2]

Cerberus moves to F4.

Listening intently to the developments, Cerberus was ready to help out in any way he could. The purple block close to him would be hard to move with the green one being transported, so he figured he would just help Lightning out with it. Moving to the north side of the block, the giant beast clamped down upon the object and dragged it back carefully until it was right next to the pedestal.

Cerberus uses Trigger Command: Pull on Green Block! [Pulls Green Block to E4]

Terra nodded as his allies began to move the blocks around, smiling just a bit as noticed the green block getting close to its destination. In only a few moments, it would be in place and the others could move onto the next one. However, he noticed that Cerberus could easily handle moving the green block to its final destination and instead pointed to the purple block near Lightning. "Move that one," He called out to the Soldier "but be sure to keep it out of the purple indent."

Lightning moves to G3!

Lightning grunted slightly in response and moved over to the block she was asked to move. This time, she wrapped her arms around the purple colored cube and pulled. It was harder to pull than push these things, but with enough effort it scooted back until Lightning stood back in her original position. She looked to Terra, who nodded before pointing to the yellow indentation at the opposite end of the room. "It needs to go over there." Lightning nodded.

Lightning uses Pull on the Purple Block! The Purple Block is moved to G4!

Chapter 03-A: The First Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - Ground Floor

Objective: Solve the trial presented by the tower!

Background: ~Ascension~

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

Player Phase 3!

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 55/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 60/60
MP: 50/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Stone Slab (cannot be occupied)(cannot pass through)

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Read what has been inscribed upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{b} - Blocks of Various Colors (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Push/Pull (Pushes or pulls target in a certain direction a certain number of cells. Range: Adjacent cell. ATK > 14 - Push/Pull 3 cells. ATK < 15 - Push/Pull 2 cells. Pulling/Pushing does not count as move action.)

{ } - Spaces of Various Colors

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{ } - These spaces do not exist.

Alyssia moves to E3.

She had been planning on handling the red block, but it seemed everyone traded hands. It was at the very least good teamwork. "Cerberus, take over the red block for me. I'll hit the yellow after this one is set," she said as she took a step into the red indentation. She grabbed the green block in front of her firmly before dragging it backwards. It took quite a bit of effort, and she had to straighten the large block to that it fit just precisely in the indentation. As soon as it was safely in, a column of translucent red light surrounded the green block. Alyssia put her hand to the light and discovered that it was solid. There was no getting the block back out now.

"I hope we made the right decision because there's no going back now," she said aloud, gazing at her next target which happened to be the yellow block in the far distance.

Alyssia uses Trigger Command: Pull on Green Block! [Pulls Green Block to E3]

Cerberus moves to D3.

Cerberus gave a hefty bark in response to his master and walked over to the red block that she had indicated. Munching down on the stone with his teeth, Cerberus navigated himself carefully backwards, dragging the block along with him. It was a shame the indentation was so far away. He figured his master would have a harder time with getting the yellow block where it needed to go with Lightning struggling with the purple block. At least they were making decent progress.

Cerberus uses Trigger Command: Pull on Red Block! [Pulls Red Block to D5]

"I apologize in advance for whatever problems this may cause." Terra responded, frowning suddenly at the thought of his theory being incorrect. Sure, every theory had a chance to be wrong, but this one seemed fairly straightforward. If this instead caused a problem for the group, he would feel terrible; it would be his fault meeting with Torcrea would be delayed. Biting his lower lip yet again, Terra crossed his fingers. He hoped he was right.

Lightning moves to H4!

Lightning stepped around the nervous Actor, bracing herself for impact with the block. Moments later the purple cube met with the full assault of her weight. While it was not much easier than pulling, it certainly was not as hard to move in this position. Moving just a little further, she stood to relax, noticing the yellow indent none too far from her position.

Lightning uses Trigger Command: Push on the Purple Block! The Purple Block is moved to D4!

Chapter 03-A: The First Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - Ground Floor

Objective: Solve the trial presented by the tower!

Background: ~Ascension~

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

Player Phase 3!

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 55/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 60/60
MP: 50/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Stone Slab (cannot be occupied)(cannot pass through)

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Read what has been inscribed upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{b} - Blocks of Various Colors (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Push/Pull (Pushes or pulls target in a certain direction a certain number of cells. Range: Adjacent cell. ATK > 14 - Push/Pull 3 cells. ATK < 15 - Push/Pull 2 cells. Pulling/Pushing does not count as move action.)

{ } - Spaces of Various Colors

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{ } - These spaces do not exist.

Alyssia moves to F7.

"There's no need to apologize, Terra," Alyssia called out reassuringly. "We're all confident in your conclusion. I really think it's our best shot, so try not to worry so much, all right?" She gave the boy a comforting smile before flapping her wings and rising into the air, soaring past the pedestal quickly to the other side of the room. She landed again to get a glimpse of the yellow block. It would have to go to the indentation south of the pedestal. Hopefully it wouldn't take too long to get it down there. The others could help her as soon as they were done with their own blocks.

Alyssia waits.

Cerberus uses Trigger Command: Pull on Red Block! [Pulls Red Block to D7]

Keeping on the straight path, Cerberus kept pulling the block farther and farther until it was right next to the green indentation. He let the block go, his teeth protected from the steel bear trap enhancements Alyssia had purchased for him. In this situation, he was definitely glad to have them. Never would he take them for granted. Slowly, he moved into the indentation and prepared to pull the thing in, and to get out of Alyssia's way so that she could grab the yellow block near him.

Cerberus moves to E7.

Lightning uses Trigger Command: Push on the Purple Block! The Purple Block is moved to C4!

Lightning heaved her weight against the block once again, nodding and standing earlier than normal as she lined it up next to the yellow indent. She proceeded to move around the block and get into position. "Hopefully this works." She muttered, preparing to push the block into the slot.

Lightning moves to C3!

Terra moves to H8!

"O-of course." Terra said, trying to stifle the nervous tone in his voice as he followed Alyssia over to her block. It seemed that she might need a bit of help getting it to its destination and he would oblige. After all, helping her out would mean he did something other than possibly figure it out.

Chapter 03-A: The First Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - Ground Floor

Objective: Solve the trial presented by the tower!

Background: ~Ascension~

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

Player Phase 3!

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 55/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 60/60
MP: 50/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Stone Slab (cannot be occupied)(cannot pass through)

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Read what has been inscribed upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{b} - Blocks of Various Colors (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Push/Pull (Pushes or pulls target in a certain direction a certain number of cells. Range: Adjacent cell. ATK > 14 - Push/Pull 3 cells. ATK < 15 - Push/Pull 2 cells. Pulling/Pushing does not count as move action.)

{ } - Spaces of Various Colors

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{ } - These spaces do not exist.

Alyssia moves to B8.

Sighing, Alyssia took the air and soared right over Cerberus and the block he was focused on, curving slightly to land behind the yellow block. With all her might, she pushed the thing as far as she could before she was forced to stop and take a breath. "Damn, at least this is a good workout for us, right?" she called out to her allies lightheartedly. So used to battle, she wasn't as comfortable with straight up manual labor. Battles came easy to her, but moving blocks? Not so much.

Alyssia uses Trigger Command: Push on Yellow Block! [Pushes Yellow Block to F8]

Cerberus uses Trigger Command: Pull on Red Block! [Pulls Red Block to E7]

Clamping onto the block one last time, Cerberus took a few steps backwards, easing his way out of the indentation so the red block could take his place. As soon as it was all the way in precisely, Cerberus let go and watched as a column of translucent green light shot upwards around the red block, heading straight for the ceiling. It was exactly the same thing that had happened with the first block, and would most likely be the same thing that happened to all the blocks. He glanced around, ready to lend a helping hand for getting the last block in its place if he was needed.

Cerberus moves to G6.

Lightning uses Trigger Command: Push on the Purple Block! The Purple Block is moved to C5!

Lightning pushed against the block once again, letting go as it slid into the indent. Stepping back, she smiled at the sight of yellow light overtaking the purple cube. Once it solidified, she nodded and took a step over in the direction of her allies. "One more."

Terra moves to F7!

"A little manual labor never hurt anyone." Terra agreed, watching as his ally pushed the block towards him. Right then, he realized he was just able to reach it, and would be able to move it. He was not sure it would go very far, but hopefully it would help at least in the slightest. "Allow me." He said as he stepped out to meet the block Alyssia pushed, taking hold of the block. It was nearly impossible for his weak form to move it, but after a lot of strenuous heaving, it finally moved in the direction he wanted it to go.

Terra uses Trigger Command: Pull on the Yellow Block! The Yellow Block is moved to F6!

"This... really wasn't... made for me."

Chapter 03-A: The First Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - Ground Floor

Objective: Solve the trial presented by the tower!

Background: ~Ascension~

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

Player Phase 3!

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 55/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 60/60
MP: 50/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

{X} - Stone Slab (cannot be occupied)(cannot pass through)

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Read what has been inscribed upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{b} - Blocks of Various Colors (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Push/Pull (Pushes or pulls target in a certain direction a certain number of cells. Range: Adjacent cell. ATK > 14 - Push/Pull 3 cells. ATK < 15 - Push/Pull 2 cells. Pulling/Pushing does not count as move action.)

{ } - Spaces of Various Colors

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{ } - These spaces do not exist.

Cerberus uses Trigger Command: Pull on Yellow Block! [Pulls Yellow Block to G6]

With all the blocks in place except the yellow, Cerberus prepared to put an end to this puzzle once in for all by setting up the finishing move for his master. He chomped down the block and pulled it back just a little ways so it was lined up next to the indentation it was meant to go into. That done, he released the block and waited for the results of their efforts which would be revealed after his master pushed the block into the indentation.

Cerberus waits.

Alyssia moves to G7.

Alyssia uses Trigger Command: Push on Yellow Block! [Pushes Yellow Block to G5]

That was it. Alyssia flew over to the last block hurriedly and shoved her whole weight into it. With that much force, she was able to slide the thing right into the indentation. She didn't even have to straighten it that time. Translucent purple light swarmed upwards around the yellow light. From above, a rain of the four colors fell down upon them, sparkles of yellow, green, red, and purple light dancing about in the air whimsically. It seemed as though this puzzle...was solved.

* * *

Chapter 03-A: The First Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - Ground Floor

Objective: Solve the trial presented by the tower!

Background: ~Ascension~

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

The trial presented by the tower has been solved!
CHAPTER COMPLETE!!

EXPERIENCE:

+8 - Puzzle solved
+2 - Player Phase completed less than 10

TOTAL EXP GAIN: 10

Alyssia: 35/54 --- 45/54
Next Level: 45/54

Cerberus: 20/54 --- 30/54
Next Level: 30/54

Lightning: 29/54 --- 39/54
Next Level: 39/54

Terra: 16/36 --- 26/36
Next Level: 26/36

No Skill Points Awarded...

No Gold received...

Items found:
---Spectrum Crystal x4

Edit your profiles, please~ Update will come shortly.

The light show continued as the room began to shake. At the far end near the wall opposite the entrance to the chamber, a glowing portal of white and gray energy swirling and mixing appeared. It wasn't like the portal the Diviner had conjured for them, for with this one, they could not see their destination. The stone slab had not lowered itself, so the portal was the only way out of the chamber. They didn't have much of a choice but to enter, and so they did. The group was enveloped by the energy, tossed about wildly. Their feet touched solid ground in a matter of moments, and when they were able to look around, they noticed they were in a chamber much like the one they had just been in, except this one had no stone slab blocking the way into a corridor. This one had no exit at all. In the center of the room was another pedestal with a tablet upon it, once again inscribed with writing. Scattered about on the floor were tiles with what appeared to be letters. On the west wall were four indentations. On the north there were three, and on the east there were four again.

"Fuck." Alyssia had made her curse loud enough for the others to hear. She was kind of queasy from the portal trip, but that didn't stop her from noticing the two giant flying birds in the chamber. Their light brown bodies were bulky and covered in feathers. They had long golden beaks and no eyes, at least none that they could see. Two long golden strands of material flew upwards out of their heads and then fell back like ribbons. Sharp talons could be seen attached to their lower bodies. "Looks like the tower's stepped it up a notch. A fight and a puzzle. This'll be fun," Alyssia grimaced as she produced her weapon. She had to at least get to the pedestal to read the instructions before leaping into the fray.

"Hope you guys are ready."

Chapter 03-B: The Second Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - First Floor

Objective: Solve the puzzle the tower has presented while fending off the enemies!

Background: ~Ascension~

{w} {w} {i} {w} {i} {w} {i} {w} {w} A
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {w} B
{i} { } {P} { } {o} { } {A} { } {i} C
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } {h} {w} D
{i} { } { } { } {p} { } { } { } {i} E
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {w} F
{i} { } {s} { } { } { } { } { } {i} G
{w} { } { } { } { } { } {w} { } {w} H
{i} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {i} I
{w} { } {C} {A} { } { } { } { } {w} J
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} K
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Pester (Ancient Harrier) *FLYING*
HP: 145/145
MP: 100/100
DD: --/--
Atk: 17
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 10
Evade: 11% --- 36%
Move: 6 cells

Annoy (Ancient Harrier) *FLYING*
HP: 145/145
MP: 100/100
DD: --/--
Atk: 17
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 10
Evade: 11% --- 36%
Move: 6 cells

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Reads the inscription upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{i} - Indentation (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Place Tile (Inserts held letter tile into the slot. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Take Tile (Removes inserted tile from the slot. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{s} - 'S' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{w} - 'W' Tile (cannot be occupied)(obviously isn't a wall)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{h} - 'H' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{o} - 'O' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

Players may start in row J!

Lightning hastily drew her gunblade, the metal decompressing as she placed it in a defensive position in front of her. A battle was something she could easily handle, Terra, having shown his skills with puzzles could take on that challenge. When they finished combating the beasts, then they could take on the puzzle with the young Actor. She glanced in his direction for but a moment, a small smile spreading across her face.

Lightning starts at J2!

Terra starts at J5!

Terra held back a groan as the portal did not lead to Torcrea, but instead another trial. It seemed the Tower had other ideas for them, more challenges to combat and emerge victorious from. However, it seemed one more trial had been added to this room in the form of enemies. "I'll start on the puzzle, help best these foes if I can." Terra assured them, looking around for several moments to glance at the mental challenge he would be dealing with. When he noticed the pedestal he frowned, Alyssia would likely need to read that for him. "Alyssia, if you could read the pedestal for me, I'll get right on it."

Chapter 03-B: The Second Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - First Floor

Objective: Solve the puzzle the tower has presented while fending off the enemies!

Background: ~Ascension~

{w} {w} {i} {w} {i} {w} {i} {w} {w} A
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {w} B
{i} { } {P} { } {o} { } {A} { } {i} C
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } {h} {w} D
{i} { } { } { } {p} { } { } { } {i} E
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {w} F
{i} { } {s} { } { } { } { } { } {i} G
{w} { } { } { } { } { } {w} { } {w} H
{i} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {i} I
{w} {L} {C} {A} {T} { } { } { } {w} J
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} K
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy)
HP: 65/65
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 80/80
MP: 35/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 55/55
MP: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 60/60
MP: 50/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Pester (Ancient Harrier) *FLYING*
HP: 145/145
MP: 100/100
DD: --/--
Atk: 17
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 10
Evade: 11% --- 36%
Move: 6 cells

Annoy (Ancient Harrier) *FLYING*
HP: 145/145
MP: 100/100
DD: --/--
Atk: 17
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 10
Evade: 11% --- 36%
Move: 6 cells

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Reads the inscription upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{i} - Indentation (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Place Tile (Inserts held letter tile into the slot. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Take Tile (Removes inserted tile from the slot. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{s} - 'S' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{w} - 'W' Tile (cannot be occupied)(obviously isn't a wall)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{h} - 'H' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{o} - 'O' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

Player Phase 1!

Alyssia moves to F5.

"No problem. Leave it to me," Alyssia replied firmly before taking to the air and flying towards the pedestal quickly. She had to make sure the instructions were read before the beasts got too impatient, for she was sure she would be busy with handling them soon. Landing gently, she gazed upon the ancient writing on the tablet and grimaced. "It says: 'Passage shall be granted to those who ask for it. Remember, in Amoria we read left to right.' Are you serious?!" Alyssia fumed, her foot tapping against the stone floor angrily. "Can we please have passage?" she asked aloud, her head lifting slightly so she could gaze upon the ceiling as if there were some unknown entity watching from above. There came no response. "Well, I gave it my best shot." Her hand shot into the air. "Brief reprieve before the journey into Hell, protect me!" A swirling gale burst from the ground and formed a protective shell around her in preparation for tackling the foes.

Alyssia uses Trigger Command: Read the Tablet! ['Passage shall be granted to those who ask for it. Remember, in Amoria we read left to right.']

Alyssia uses Limbo's Rest! [All damage taken -20%]

MP: 37/45

Cerberus moves to H4.

Cerberus casts Curseja on all enemies! [Chance of Curse]

MP: 17/35

Just like the last puzzle, Cerberus refrained from doing anything about it until they had a plan of action. Luckily, there were enemies about this time, so it wouldn't be as if he were doing nothing. Darkness surged around Cerberus, and he stood upon his hind legs for only a moment before slamming his front paws into the ground to send the darkness out in the form of a giant wave that buffeted the large birds in the distance. Any attack they made would hopefully be returned upon them for extra damage. If the curse succeeded, they would definitely have less trouble from the enemies.

Lightning *-10% Mp Cost*
Hp: 55/55
Mp: 45/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra
Hp: 60/60
Mp: 50/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning shifts to Ravager!

Lightning's R-Ability, Power-Shift, activates! +50% Atk and Int for Three Turns!

Lightning moves to G2!

Lightning dashed forward as a wave of mana swept over her, transforming her battle capabilities as was her usual action. However, this time as she stopped, she conjured a small globe of water in front of her. With a bit of angling, she set it off, watching as it floated over to the target in mind and then swiftly dropped.

Lightning casts Water on Pester! 14 Int Water Damage! 50% Chance of Wet!

Lightning recovers 2 Mp!

Terra moves to H5!

Terra listened to Alyssia, carefully thinking over the message for a moment before bowing his head. This puzzle definitely was not as easy as the last one had been; this one would require ample thought on his part. However, it seemed his allies could at least use a bit of help on his part; the enemies were fairly abundant and he did have something to counter it.

Terra quickly thrust his blade forward, strangely releasing a strong gale, which blasted towards the foes. However, the gale was not the only part to this attack, as the Actor quickly used mana to decrease the temperature. It was not long before the water vapor being pushed around by the gale started to congeal and freeze before Terra took further action. A hasty spin and slash combo with the saber caused a myriad of icicles formed from the gale to whip around wildly and cut into their foes.

Terra casts Tormento non Perdona on the Enemy Party! 18 Int Ice Damage! 50% Chance of Bloodloss!

Lightning *-10% Mp Cost* *Power-Shift (3)*
Hp: 55/55
Mp: 42/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15 --> 23
Def: 13
Int: 11 --> 17
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra
Hp: 60/60
Mp: 14/50
DD: 3/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Pester takes 48 Dmg! BLOOD LOSS!!

HP: 97/145

Pester evades Curse!

Pester evades Wet!

Annoy dodges Terra's attack!

Annoy is Cursed!

Chapter 03-B: The Second Trial

Location: Heaven's Tower - First Floor

Objective: Solve the puzzle the tower has presented while fending off the enemies!

Background: ~Ascension~

{w} {w} {i} {w} {i} {w} {i} {w} {w} A
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {w} B
{i} { } {P} { } {o} { } {A} { } {i} C
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } {h} {w} D
{i} { } { } { } {p} { } { } { } {i} E
{w} { } { } { } {A} { } { } { } {w} F
{i} {L} {s} { } { } { } { } { } {i} G
{w} { } { } {C} {T} { } {w} { } {w} H
{i} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {i} I
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {w} J
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} K
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Alyssia's Limbo's Rest has 5 turns.

Lightning's Power Shift has 2 turns left.

Enemy Phase.

Pester moves to D4.

Pester uses Wind Spread! Hits all enemies!

Hits Lightning! 2 hits! 14 Wind Dmg per hit! (ATK)

Hits Cerberus! 14 Wind Dmg! (ATK)

Hits Alyssia! 2 hits! 14 Wind Dmg per hit! (ATK)

Hits Terra! 5 hits! 14 Wind Dmg per hit! (ATK) [Last hit MISS]

MP: 84/100

Annoy moves to E7.

Annoy uses Provoke on Alyssia! [Alyssia is Provoked]

MP: 94/100

{w} {w} {i} {w} {i} {w} {i} {w} {w} A
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {w} B
{i} { } { } { } {o} { } { } { } {i} C
{w} { } { } {P} { } { } { } {h} {w} D
{i} { } { } { } {p} { } {A} { } {i} E
{w} { } { } { } {A} { } { } { } {w} F
{i} {L} {s} { } { } { } { } { } {i} G
{w} { } { } {C} {T} { } {w} { } {w} H
{i} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {i} I
{w} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {w} J
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} K
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Annoy is Cursed for 2 more turns.

Player Phase 2!

Alyssia (Bringer of Tragedy) *DMG TAKEN -20%* *PROVOKE [Annoy]*
HP: 63/65
MP: 37/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 18
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 9
Evade: 13%
Move: 6 cells

Cerberus (Tragedy's Omen)
HP: 79/80
MP: 17/35
DD: 10/10
Atk: 16 --- 18
Def: 12 --- 13
Int: 9 --- 10
Spr: 6 --- 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Lightning (Paradigm Shifter)
HP: 53/55
MP: 42/45
DD: 10/10
Atk: 15
Def: 13
Int: 11
Spr: 10
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Terra (Actor)
HP: 44/60
MP: 14/50
DD: 5/10
Atk: 11
Def: 10
Int: 11
Spr: 12
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 cells

Pester (Ancient Harrier) *FLYING*
HP: 97/145
MP: 84/100
DD: --/--
Atk: 17
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 10
Evade: 11% --- 36%
Move: 6 cells

Annoy (Ancient Harrier) *FLYING* *CURSE*
HP: 145/145
MP: 94/100
DD: --/--
Atk: 17
Def: 12
Int: 10
Spr: 10
Evade: 11% --- 36%
Move: 6 cells

{p} - Pedestal (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Read the Tablet (Reads the inscription upon the tablet. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{i} - Indentation (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Place Tile (Inserts held letter tile into the slot. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Take Tile (Removes inserted tile from the slot. Range: Adjacent cell.)

{s} - 'S' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{w} - 'W' Tile (cannot be occupied)(obviously isn't a wall)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{h} - 'H' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{o} - 'O' Tile (cannot be occupied)
Trigger Command: Pick Up (Grabs the tile for holding. Range: Adjacent cell.)
Trigger Command: Drop (Lets go of target by dumping it into an adjacent cell.)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

Alyssia moves to F7.

"Oh man, why do I feel so pissed off at that thing?" Alyssia questioned aloud, sending a hateful glare towards the bird that had taunted her with disgraceful gestures. In her condition, there wasn't much she could do about the puzzle. All she felt like doing was wailing on that bird, so she flew closer to it and slashed at it a couple of times with her blade, hoping the hits would land. The birds were in the air more than she was, so they must have more practice in dodging attacks from below. While she waited for the bird's counterattack, she thought some more about what was inscribed on the tablet, but it just wound up giving her a headache. After all, she had asked for it. But then there was the reminder...

"Remember, in Amoria we read left to right. Are we supposed to write something somehow?" Alyssia informed the others, trying to get some ideas flowing. The sooner they solved the puzzle, the better.

Alyssia attacks Annoy! 2 hits! 18 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

R-Ability Force to Longevity activates! [+8 HP Recovered]

HP: 65/65

R-Ability Shade Reflex activates! [All damage taken -1%]

Cerberus moves to G4.

Cerberus uses Tri-Fireball on Pester! 3 hits! 15 Fire Dmg per hit! (INT) [Chance of Burn]

MP: 7/35

The bird's pathetic wind bullet hardly did anything to the large beast. Shaking off the attack, Cerberus opened his mouths for a retaliation of his own. Flames spewed forth and formed spheres in each mouth. Pulling each head back, he sent the fireballs flying. The middle headed straight for the target while the other two were a bit slower and curved inwards for a strike. The things were pretty agile, so he could hope that each fireball would hit its mark.