Pursuit of Happiness

The next morning dawned on the recovering forest more brightly than ever before; the few Sprites that remained waking with smiles on their faces despite the fresh destruction around them. Although the damage had been done, there was truly reason for them to be as happy as they were. Simply put they lived to see another day, which was all thanks to their two saviors who had fallen into their laps. A great deed for the two outsiders to commit was celebrated not extravagantly, but rather plainly (not that one would complain), the festivity being a mere exchange of thanks and a walk of honor in which the two were led to the edge of the Forsaken Forest.

However, just before they could exit out onto the road, Lady Nelyk appeared once more. Having not been seen since the prior night, she looked a little worse for wear, but the reasons were obvious. Not one of her subjects dared speak a word of it, knowing that it would be quite some time until she fully recovered from the assault made on her forest.

"I must thank you again for protecting my forest. As its saviors, I can not allow it to reject your presence as it would any other being. As a token of my gratitude, please, take this with you." she stated, holding out a single hand to the duo before her. In a flash of brilliant light, a warm wind washed over the surrounding area and when it faded a sphere, colored green in hue, sat in the Goddess' hand. "Should you ever wish to return to us, this will allow you entry." Nelyk continued, handing the sphere to Alexandria. "Do not hesitate to return; you shall always find shelter here."

The Party receives the Forest Sphere!

"We won't." Alexandria responded quietly, a smile on her face as she nodded in agreement with the deity. The Goddess likely sensed that behind the simple answer was the immense gratitude she felt inside. It was a very pleasing and comforting thought to know that they could return if they needed to; especially if that witch returned. They would not hesitate to come to the forest's aid. This Alexandria knew without having to even speak a word of it to Zhao, he probably felt the same way. "Thank you for everything." the Refugee added, holding the sphere up just a bit before placing it into her bag.

And with that, the duo turned to leave, their final goodbyes becoming distorted as they stepped out of what appeared to be barren woods. However, upon stepping out onto the road, a turn around towards the forest brought a sight most unexpected. It appeared that there was a thriving and perfect forest; an obvious illusion, one to keep those on the outside from seeing the truth of what had happened. Whether or not it had always been there or was a recent addition was unknown, but that fact was a trivial one.

Without a real destination in mind, the duo walked along the road that had been presented for them... or rather Zhao did. Alex rode him as she had done since they met, and in each others' company the long walk did not feel quite so long at all. It seemed even shorter upon their arrival at a small collection of buildings and a large bulletin board. This is where their journey would truly begin...


Congratulations! You have completed the intro to Pursuit of Happiness and have now unlocked the full freedoms attached to the story! The ragtag collection of buildings and sights we have just entered is known as Traversia and it is currently here that you will decide where the Party heads. There are somethings that you need to know, however, before you make any decisions!

Traversia:

Also known as your 'Hub', Traversia is the place we'll be returning to quite often in search of things to do. You'll notice at the moment there are only three things of interest: The Inn, The Request Board, and The Passerby Market. While it may not seem like much now, the 'Hub' will expand and grow as you play. It all depends on where you go, what requests you do, and what you say to the people you meet. Play your cards right and Traversia might become one of the biggest hotspots in all of Ethernia!

The Inn:

The Inn is where you'll find an ever present Consumables Shoppe. If you are ever in need of more items, this is the place to go, as they have an abundant stock of items. Items will be limited to what you have encountered so far, and typically have average pricing.

The other point of interest of the Inn is the bar, which is where you'll sometimes find characters other than the typical barmaid. These characters mostly are just passing on through and have a certain location in mind, but some are free spirits that are just looking for something to do! If you see someone new, talk to them! Or don't. You never know what will happen~

The Request Board:

Sitting opposite of the Inn is a large Bulletin Board split up into two sections: 1) The Request Board and 2) The World Map. The Request Board is typically what you are going to want to focus on, as it holds pleas of the people from all around. Whether someone wants you to slay a dragon or just help clean their house, you'll find it on the Request Board. The rewards are typically well worth the journey, so its highly advised that you take on a request or two before just heading out.

Not quite as important but still fairly important is the World Map. The Map is a rather basic version of our own, and is your means of exploration. If there aren't any requests, or if you just want to grab some experience, pick out some locations and head there. You never know what you'll find!

The Passerby Market:

Last but certainly not least there is the Passerby Market. As the name implies this is also a place to buy things, whether it is: materials, consumables, weapons, armor, or even synthesis! However, the people that set up shop here are typically not around to stay and are more often than not traveling merchants. Some might stay for awhile, others might pack up and be gone before you come back to town. Needless to say you'll want to at least check out what they have available for you, especially since some of their wares might be more rare than what you would find elsewhere!

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The Inn's Consumables

+ Herb (Recovers 10 Hp upon use. Cost: 20 Gold. Stock: 0)

+ Spice (Recovers 10 Mp upon use. Cost: 40 Gold. Stock: 0)

+ Potion (Recovers 20 Hp upon use. Cost: 50 Gold. Stock: 0)


The Passerby Market

-Closed-


The Request Board

+ Runaway Lancer (By the order of the Glaythian Royal Army, all deserters are sentenced to death. However, one man who has expertise with a lance has evaded capture so far, and by decree of the King any citizen who successfully apprehends the fugitive shall be granted whatever it is their heart desires. Request Difficulty: ***) **TAKEN**

+ Trouble in the Mountains (Everything was fine in the Andor Mountains before Glaythia's soldiers started pouring in. Now the mountain creatures have grown rather violent and the remaining soldiers are doing nothing to stop them from attacking our village! Please help! Request Difficulty: **) **TAKEN**

The Board immediately piqued Zhao's interest, guiding his steps towards it. One brow raised as his eyes fell across the first request, and a wry smile curved his fanged mouth. "Look Alex, another rebel." Such a soldier would've earned his blessing had Zhaoyang still been in the heavens, and done so on honor alone in such a dishonorable world. His tail twitched as he imagined the possibilities ahead. "What do you think?"

"Huh..." Alexandria said plainly, looking over the request for herself. As Zhao had pointed out there was another rebel, one that apparently warranted getting civilians involved. To add to the fact, the very King of the nation the rebel was from was offering a very sizable reward in return for his capture. "Anything his captor desires..." she murmured, mostly to herself as she thought about the possibility. In the end she grimaced, it was likely just a tactic to lure people to the cause; not to mention a fugitive catching a fugitive would likely warrant both of them being thrown in jail.

"Sounds like someone who could use our help." Alexandria concluded, slipping off of Zhao's back and approaching the board. She quickly grabbed the request and nodded; they would definitely be seeking this guy out. "But if we're going to do so, we might want to stock up." she added as she took the little poster detailing the request and a picture of the man.

Alexandria takes Request: Runaway Lancer!

The tiger nodded in response, feeling as if he already knew how Alex would respond. If he'd held any sliver of doubt before, there was none now that they were in total agreement on many things and were a force to be reckoned with. His smile turned to one of grim determination, realizing the quest they were setting themselves on would not end with the recovery of this one man. They would need supplies indeed. Even though Alex's intentions were for the near future, there would certainly be more to this, something set in motion by their actions. He did not dread it however, it felt right, like the moment the night before when he knew his path was laid out for him.

He glanced at her, looking her over as he did the first snowy night. "Take the other as well. Perhaps we can do something about their monster problem." They probably wouldn't be able to eradicate it, but they could at least ease some of the tension in the mountains.

"Alright." Alexandria agreed with a nod before also grabbing the other request. She briefly scanned the sheet, unaware of the Star's gaze on her, and nodded when she finished. They would definitely be able to go fix at least a part of the problem that was growing in the mountains. Perhaps they could even knock a few soldiers' heads together.

Alexandria takes Request: Trouble in the Mountains!

With both requests in their possession, Alexandria took a second to look around the area. She had said they would need to stock up on items and she meant it. Not going in prepared would likely be the biggest mistake on their part, and she would not allow that. Unfortunately all that seemed available to them at the time was an inn and a vacant set of stalls. At this the Refugee frowned and looked back to her partner; it did not seem like they would be able to stock up.

"I'm going to go check out the inn, maybe they have something we can use." Alexandria said aloud, her gaze falling back on Zhao after she said it. "I'll be right back." she added quickly before taking off towards the inn; she really hoped they had something they could use.

Upon stepping into the inn, the girl was surprised to find it looked a lot nicer on the inside than it did from the outside. Fully furnished with nice comfy furniture, a stone fireplace, and warm colors that all seemed to compliment each other. It was no more than a moment after she stepped in that she noticed the front desk, an elderly woman sitting at the desk while writing in a leather-bound book. She did not look up at first, but as Alexandria took a step inside and the door closed behind her the woman looked up and her smile could melt even the coldest heart.

"Well hello there, can I help you darling?" the older woman asked, her eyes twinkling as she set the book aside.

"Yes please. You would not happen to have some items would you? Consumables maybe?" Alexandria responded, a small smile spreading on her face. The woman seemed very nice and if the small party were going to stay at her inn ever, it would be nice to know they were in her hands.

"Yes actually, I keep a stock handy for travelers. Traversia is quite busy believe it or not, so many people always passing on through..." the woman replied happily, standing up from her seat and kneeling before returning with a small chest. The lock on the chest was taken off after a moment of fidgeting with it and in the chest was a relatively small amount of healing items. Several herbs, a couple spices, and even some potion vials.

"How much do you want for it?" Alexandria asked almost immediately, reaching into her bag and pulling out a pouch which had been filled with quite a bit of gold.

"My, that's a lot of money there dearie. I'll sell it all to you for 370 Gold." the woman said after a moment, having taken just a moment to ogle the younger girl's cash. It was quite a bit after all, much more than most travelers had on them.

"Sounds good to me." Alexandria replied again, placing the money down on the table with a smile before pocketing the items.

Alexandria buys everything! -370 Gold

"Thank you very much." Alexandria added after all was done, bowing her head in respect to the older woman who just chucked a bit.

"No need to thank me dearie, you just be careful." the woman laughed before taking a seat once more. With the shopping all done, Alexandria said goodbye to the innkeeper and walked back out to meet Zhao.

"Are you ready to go?"

Head out?:
Yes
No

He watched her go inside with another revelation coming to him, though this time a lot less lifechanging. In his decidedly nonhumanoid form, he would not be able to go into most human establishments. More because of the fact he normally wouldn't be able to fit through a doorway. It had never troubled him before, he'd had no reason to go inside anywhere like this, but now with a companion to travel with it might present some problems. Not on his end of course, he was perfectly sleeping and eating outside, but say if there were a situation inside and Alex needed his help, well. Let's just say jumping through a wide window or breaking down a wall would likely not make a great impression on the owner of the building or other place. Zhao was almost on the point of laughing about it when the girl returned with what supplies she could get. "Satisfied?" A lightly teasing tone colored his voice, despite the necessity.

Head out?: Hell yes.

"Perfectly." Alexandria replied before climbing on his back once again. It was not long before she was settled and together the duo took off for the south, for that was where Glaythia lied, and it was there that the Lancer was last seen.

Chapter II: Where the Wind Blows...

Getting there was not the hard part. No, if anything that was fairly easy despite it taking several hours. No one bothered them and they were not forced to fight any creatures on the way there; it was overall a pleasant journey. However, upon getting into Glaythia things got a little more difficult. All around there were soldiers and bases, likely prisons somewhere, and yet no Lancer. Well... that last part was rather obvious. A fugitive would not just waltz into enemy territory, especially when they would be killed on sight.

Well... most fugitives would not; Alexandria and Zhao were not most fugitives. They walked right into the main area, not noticed by any of the soldiers or commanding officers. It seemed they were all too hell bent on finding the traitor who was no where to bee seen.

"Any suggestions?"

Zhaoyang was not used to being at a loss. Even after his fall, he set out to find out what happened, and even after that purpose faded away he began a search for a new home to live out his days. This was different. He had thought the man would just be there, though now he saw that it was foolish to just expect a fellow fugitive to be out in the open causing trouble. Perhaps he was hiding? It didn't seem right, not for someone to have so boldly defied order and then hide for fear of repercussion.

"Hm." Perhaps some of his fellow officers would know something? He approached a couple soldiers nearby who were standing around, talking of something inconsequential. At his presence, they quickly turned and their eyes widened but to their credit showed no fear. "We are looking for a local deserter. We had a request for his capture?" He chose not to tell them the whole truth. It would not do to tell soldiers of the very government he and Alex were evading that they searched for a man of . . . similar disposition.

One of the soldiers Zhao had spoken to stayed quiet for a moment before nodding. "Good to have your help. As for the deserter, I'm afraid we have no idea as to where he is located. However he has escaped with a large percentage of our medicines and weaponry, he can't be too far with how frequent-" Just as the soldier was finishing up his explanation a loud siren blared from the west. Instantly the other soldiers that had continued conversing after the first spoke up dashed off in that direction. "He's on the premises." was all the man that had been explaining said before following the rest of the soldiers.

"Guess we have our guy." Alexandria said over the siren, not even needing to tell Zhao to get a move on it.

Following the soldiers, the duo arrived at one of many gray buildings with metal doors. However, one rather close to their location had a rather gaping hole in its dead center, smoke spilling out of the makeshift entrance. The soldiers were quick to charge on in, but the duo stayed several feet away; it was not possible to tell if their guy was still in there, but it seemed rather doubtful. After all there was an explosion, did not seem like something one would stick around for.

"Check outside the camp." was all Alexandria said, slipping off of Zhao's back and heading in the direction away from the border. It was all Zhao could do but follow the girl who no more than five minutes later was dashing off after some figure in the distance, the only noticeable feature being some sort of red waving in the air.

"Hey wait!"

He wasted no time in taking off after the fleeing lancer at full speed. There was no time to stop and throw the girl on his back, so he caught up to the man in powerful leaps, impressed the human could run this fast in such heavy armor. Closer now, Zhao could see the fluttering red thing was some sort of long sash wrapped around the man's lance, which was tucked under his arm in what looked to the tiger like a practiced move. Before he could catch the lancer's attention, the man darted to the side, causing Zhao to skid before he could make an effective turn. "Wait!" The other didn't even turn his head, only tossing back a laugh seeming too jovial for his situation.

"Haha, not likely mate!" Before Zhao could comment further, the lancer abruptly stopped and swung his lance wide, catching in the white tiger's feet. For a brief moment of slowed relative time, the fallen Star was actually impressed, knowing what was about to happen next. Going too fast to stop and the clothesline move too sudden to avoid, Zhao stumbled and flipped over himself, landing with a thud on the cold ground. Though he recovered quickly enough, he opened his eyes to the lancer's form dashing away already in the opposite direction.

Now it was Zhao's turn to give out a laugh as he took off again. The man was running straight towards Alex.

Alexandria was rather impressed with her friend's speed, having been passed by the much larger tiger almost immediately. The sense of pride in her ally's ability to get ahold of the Lancer quickly fell however as the man managed to trip him up. At this she almost chuckled, as a large tiger tripping over himself was a rather hilarious prospect, but did not out of the urgency of the situation. They needed to get ahold of the man after all, stopping to laugh would not help them get to him nor would it help her friend's morale.

A smile, however, quickly settled itself on her face in its place as the man started running towards her. While she doubted she could intimidate him or actually catch him there was one thing she had that Zhaoyang did not and that was the weapon attached to her side. Without a second thought she quickly whipped out the pistol, pointing it at the man as she continued to run. The man was clueless, but Zhaoyang surely knew that she could easily hit her mark while moving around.

"Hold up a minute and let us explain." Alexandria called plainly, getting just a bit closer to his oncoming figure before halting herself. She quickly took aim so that any bullet fired would go right past him, but she assumed he would not be able to tell that.

For a few panicky seconds, it appeared as if the lancer wouldn't stop at all, like he would just barrel straight through the small girl. And then he just stopped, standing there as if he hadn't been sprinting at all, powdery snow clouding about his feet the only indication he'd actually moved before. He glanced behind him at the slowing tiger, then back at the girl. "Dead or alive then, lass? I'm not one to be taken prisoner."

He was smiling.

"I'd rather you alive. Do we look like soldiers to you?" Alexandria responded, gun still trained on his now halted figure. The bullets would definitely miss if fired at him, but she hoped he would not try anything. One misstep or hair out of place and she could actually end up shooting him; she was not a perfect shot after all.

"Nah, bounty hunters by the ragtag look." He fingered something lazily at his belt. "Figured they'd set a price in me head, but they spread the word pretty fast didn't they." It was less a question than a rhetorical statement.

Alexandria faltered for a moment. They probably did appear to be bounty hunters from his perspective. After all, it was the request made by the army that led them to finding out about the man's existence. He was likely aware of the price the King was willing to pay for his death. "I assure you we're anything but." she said after a moment, lowering the gun just a bit so that she appeared to be backing down. "We were actually hoping to help you."

"Oh yeah?" His smile widened and he reached up to push his helmet's faceplate back, revealing pale green eyes and a lock of almost white blond hair spilling onto his forehead. He had the look of a man untroubled, though he should have every right to be. "That's a bit different. What do the two of ya say we find a uh, quieter place to converse?" He gestured with his free hand at their precarious surroundings.

"I'm afraid that will not be an option." A very sharp, male bass sounded from behind Alexandria, causing her to spin on her heels and now raise her gun towards the source. The man that stood behind her was dressed in plate armor similar to most of the other soldiers around the border, however his uniform was slightly better kept and even... polished maybe? He looked rather clean and authoritative compared to the other soldiers they had seen and spoken to.

"I suggest you put that away little girl, unless you wish to injure yourself." the soldier stated, moving towards her at an alarmingly fast pace despite the metal plate armor. In the back of her mind Alexandria could not help but wonder if all men wearing heavy armor were able to move like that, however this thought quickly became a jumbled mess as she backed up. The man responded by getting closer at an even faster pace until he had the small party and the Lancer relatively all together.

"I must say that I am rather fortunate. Not only have I been led to the Lancer but it seems I've caught some other known nuisances as well. I'm certain the King will be pleased to receive your heads." the man declared, pulling a blade from the sheath at his side and pointing it in the direction of the poorly assembled group. "I must say though, it is rather foolish for the lambs to line themselves up for slaughter... makes my job easier I guess."

". . . That talk will have to wait for a bit." Alexandria replied, though this was obviously to the Lancer's prior statement than the soldier who was threatening them. Quickly swapping her gun for her staff she prepared for a fight.

Chapter II-I: Request: Runaway Lancer
Objective: Knock out the opposition and escape with Darragh in tow!
Atmosphere: Namara-Glaythian Border (We're in enemy territory, better be careful; +5% Ally Party Evade)


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
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{w} { } { } {D} { } D
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{w} { } { } { } { } L
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Alexandria *Staff*
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 60/60
IP: 0/10
Atk: 12
Def: 8
Int: 11
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 7% --- 12%
Move: 3 Cells

Darragh
HP: 50/50
MP: 45/45
IP: 0/10
Atk: 7
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

Robert
Hp: 80/80
Mp: 45/45
IP: 0/10
Atk: 12
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

{w} - Steel Wall
No Occupy.
Hp: 200/200
Def: 50
Spr: 25

You may start in Rows A-C!

Chapter II-I: Request: Runaway Lancer
Objective: Knock out the opposition and escape with Darragh in tow!
Atmosphere: Namara-Glaythian Border (We're in enemy territory, better be careful; +5% Ally Party Evade)


{ } { } { } { } { } A
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Alexandria *Staff*
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 60/60
IP: 0/10
Atk: 12
Def: 8
Int: 11
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 7% --- 12%
Move: 3 Cells

Zhaoyang
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 50/50
IP: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 8
Int: 15
Spr: 8
Crit: 5%
Evade: 5% --- 10%
Move: 3 Cells

Darragh
HP: 50/50
MP: 45/45
IP: 0/10
Atk: 7
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

Robert
Hp: 80/80
Mp: 45/45
IP: 0/10
Atk: 12
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

{w} - Steel Wall
No Occupy.
Hp: 200/200
Def: 50
Spr: 25

Player Phase - I

Alexandria casts Protect on Zhaoyang! Bestows Protect!

"Take this." Alexandria muttered, waving her staff in the direction of her ally. Between the two of them he would likely be the one to get close to their enemy, when he did he would need all the protection he could get. Between the two of them neither were any good at taking hits, something that they would need to remedy soon; but getting the hell out of here was required before they could do that.

Alexandria moves to C4!

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Chapter II-I: Request: Runaway Lancer
Objective: Knock out the opposition and escape with Darragh in tow!
Atmosphere: Namara-Glaythian Border (We're in enemy territory, better be careful; +5% Ally Party Evade)


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
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{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
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Zhaoyang gains Protect!

Alexandria gains 1 IP!

Zhaoyang's Alignment takes affect!

Enemy Phase - I

Commander Robert uses Victory Statement! +25% Damage Output!

"You should really quit now," the commander shouted at the rabble assembled before him "Your fates are sealed anyhow." With that he raised his blade and made a single swiping motion causing mana to collect in the air before colliding in on him. It was unclear what he did, but he did something, that was for sure.


{ } { } { } { } { } A
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Neutral Phase - I

Darragh moves to E-4.

Darragh casts Grant [-8 MP] on himself! Darragh is afflicted with Protect!

The man rested his lance over one shoulder and raised his free hand. Dim white sparks gathered near it, then burst when he snapped. It seemed to have some effect as a wavering barrier rose up around him like heat waves on a hot day. "I'll see what I can do about that, Tiger." He finally replied, lowering his faceplate with a clank. "And my name's Darragh, for simplic'ty's sake." Darragh smiled again, though it couldn't be seen now.

Darragh gains Protect!

Darragh gains 1 IP!


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
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Alexandria *Staff*
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 52/60
IP: 1/10
Atk: 12
Def: 8
Int: 11
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 7% --- 12%
Move: 3 Cells

Zhaoyang *Alignment* *Protect (3)*
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 40/50
IP: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 8
Int: 15 --- 18
Spr: 8
Crit: 5%
Evade: 5% --- 10% --- 30%
Move: 3 Cells

Darragh *Protect (3)*
HP: 50/50
MP: 37/45
IP: 1/10
Atk: 7
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

Robert *+25% Damage Output*
Hp: 80/80
Mp: 35/45
IP: 0/10
Atk: 12
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

{w} - Steel Wall
No Occupy.
Hp: 200/200
Def: 50
Spr: 25

Player Phase - II

Alexandria switches to her Gun!

Seeing as the others were fully prepared to take on their lone opposition, Alexandria chose to swap her staff out for her gun. It certainly was not the stronger of her two weapons, but range was everything for her. Fighting up close would easily warrant him attacking her and she could not take much punishment. That was certain.

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Chapter II-I: Request: Runaway Lancer
Objective: Knock out the opposition and escape with Darragh in tow!
Atmosphere: Namara-Glaythian Border (We're in enemy territory, better be careful; +5% Ally Party Evade)


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
{w} { } { } {A} { } C
{w} { } { } { } { } D
{w} { } { } {D} { } E
{w} { } {Z} { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } H
{w} { } {R} { } { } I
{w} { } { } { } { } J
{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
-1---2---3---4---5-

Robert takes 16 Damage! (Zhaoyang)

Robert evades Paralysis!

Zhaoyang gains 1 IP!

Robert loses 1 IP!

Enemy Phase - II

Robert moves to G3!

The man stood resilient, charging ahead despite the rather massive amount of damage the tiger had inflicted upon him. He responded immediately, making a rather power slash all the while. "Pity."

Robert uses Valiant Slash on Zhaoyang! 17 Atk Damage!

Zhaoyang takes 9 Damage! CRITICAL!

Robert gains 2 IP!

Zhaoyang loses 1 IP!


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
{w} { } { } {A} { } C
{w} { } { } { } { } D
{w} { } { } {D} { } E
{w} { } {Z} { } { } F
{ } { } {R} { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } H
{w} { } { } { } { } I
{w} { } { } { } { } J
{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
-1---2---3---4---5-

Neutral Phase - II

Darragh uses Guard [-5 MP] on Zhaoyang! Zhaoyang is now Covered!

The Lancer lowered his weapon and spread his feet in a ready stance. He thrust the red sashed lance forward, causing a white shield symbol to appear under his feet. With an odd hissing sound, one just like it appeared over the tiger and flashed before fading away. "Let wounds not bother ya, friend. I'll bear ya burden." His words were quiet, meant only for the Star, though it mattered not if anyone else heard.

Zhaoyang gains Covered! Darragh will take all damage for Zhaoyang until further notice!


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
{w} { } { } {A} { } C
{w} { } { } { } { } D
{w} { } { } {D} { } E
{w} { } {Z} { } { } F
{ } { } {R} { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } H
{w} { } { } { } { } I
{w} { } { } { } { } J
{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
-1---2---3---4---5-

Alexandria *Gun*
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 52/60
IP: 1/10
Atk: 12
Def: 8
Int: 11
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 7% --- 12%
Move: 3 Cells

Zhaoyang *Alignment* *Protect (2)* *Covered*
Hp: 31/40
Mp: 28/50
IP: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 8
Int: 15 --- 18
Spr: 8
Crit: 5%
Evade: 5% --- 10% --- 30%
Move: 3 Cells

Darragh *Protect (2)* *Covering*
HP: 50/50
MP: 32/45
IP: 1/10
Atk: 7
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

Robert *+25% Damage Output*
Hp: 64/80
Mp: 27/45
IP: 1/10
Atk: 12
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

{w} - Steel Wall
No Occupy.
Hp: 200/200
Def: 50
Spr: 25

Player Phase - III

Alexandria moves to C3!

Gun in hand, Alexandria took a couple steps so that she was in line with the man. She did not fire off a round of bullets at him though. With how thick the armor he wore was, she doubted her ability to even make a dent. She'd have to take a round to prepare first. So that's just what she did.

Alexandria casts Enchant Ammo! Next Attack is Piercing!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter II-I: Request: Runaway Lancer
Objective: Knock out the opposition and escape with Darragh in tow!
Atmosphere: Namara-Glaythian Border (We're in enemy territory, better be careful; +5% Ally Party Evade)


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
{w} { } {A} { } { } C
{w} { } { } { } { } D
{w} { } { } {D} { } E
{w} { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } {R} { } {Z} G
{ } { } { } { } { } H
{w} { } { } { } { } I
{w} { } { } { } { } J
{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
-1---2---3---4---5-

Alexandria gains Enchant Amo!

Commander Robert takes 18 Damage! (Zhaoyang)

Zhao gains 1 IP!

Commander Robert loses 1 IP!

Enemy Phase - III

Commander Robert moves to G4!

"Think you can bring me down that easily?" the commander roared despite the flames that scorched his armor. He wasn't feeling too hot honestly, but he would remain standing. These fugitives would be apprehended, he would make sure of it! Lifting his sword again, he made a very powerful slash at the tiger, only to have the tiger nimbly dodge it. He cursed.

Commander Robert used Valiant Slash on Zhaoyang! 17 Atk Damage!

Zhao dodges the attack!

Zhao gains 1 IP!


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
{w} { } {A} { } { } C
{w} { } { } { } { } D
{w} { } { } {D} { } E
{w} { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } {R} {Z} G
{ } { } { } { } { } H
{w} { } { } { } { } I
{w} { } { } { } { } J
{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
-1---2---3---4---5-

Neutral Phase - III

Darragh merely watched as the tiger deftly avoided the commander's attack, waiting for the opportunity to strike. He'd glanced at the feline as he'd spoke of dealing with their enemy, or rather his helmeted head turned towards him, traces of a smile flickering there still. He raised his lance in salute to the request, then held it straight up in front of him. Using the higher hand as a pivot, he directed the heavy weapon downwards, letting gravity work to bring it smashing down on the commander.
Darragh uses Lance Fall [-8 MP] on Robert! 10 Atk damage! (90% chance to hit)

Commander Robert takes 1 Damage!

Darragh gains 1 IP!


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
{w} { } {A} { } { } C
{w} { } { } { } { } D
{w} { } { } {D} { } E
{w} { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } {R} {Z} G
{ } { } { } { } { } H
{w} { } { } { } { } I
{w} { } { } { } { } J
{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
-1---2---3---4---5-

Alexandria *Gun* *Enchant Amo*
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 42/60
IP: 1/10
Atk: 12
Def: 8
Int: 11
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 7% --- 12%
Move: 3 Cells

Zhaoyang *Alignment* *Protect (2)* *Covered*
Hp: 31/40
Mp: 16/50
IP: 2/10
Atk: 1
Def: 8
Int: 15 --- 18
Spr: 8
Crit: 5%
Evade: 5% --- 10% --- 30%
Move: 3 Cells

Darragh *Protect (2)* *Covering*
HP: 50/50
MP: 24/45
IP: 2/10
Atk: 7
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

Robert *+25% Damage Output*
Hp: 45/80
Mp: 19/45
IP: 0/10
Atk: 12
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 7
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

{w} - Steel Wall
No Occupy.
Hp: 200/200
Def: 50
Spr: 25

Player Phase - IV

Alexandria moves to D3!

The man had moved again which was not a problem for Alexandria in the slightest. She just took a few steps toward him and took aim again. She fired off two bullets, both of which ripped through the air before striking dead on. Magic cut small holes in the armor, enabling the bullets to lodge themselves directly into his body. Alex had to smile. "What was that about us losing?"

Alexandria attacks Commander Robert! 2 Hits! 12 Piercing Atk Damage per Hit!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter II-I: Request: Runaway Lancer
Objective: Knock out the opposition and escape with Darragh in tow!
Atmosphere: Namara-Glaythian Border (We're in enemy territory, better be careful; +5% Ally Party Evade)


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
{w} { } {A} { } { } C
{w} { } { } { } { } D
{w} { } { } {D} { } E
{w} { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } {R} { } G
{ } { } {Z} { } { } H
{w} { } { } { } { } I
{w} { } { } { } { } J
{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
-1---2---3---4---5-

Commander Robert takes 24 Damage! (Alexandria)

Alexandria gains 2 IP!

Commander Robert loses 2 IP!

Commander Robert takes 28 Damage! CRITICAL (Zhaoyang)

Commander Robert.... KO!

Zhaoyang gains 4 IP!


{ } { } { } { } { } A
{w} { } { } { } { } B
{w} { } {A} { } { } C
{w} { } { } { } { } D
{w} { } { } {D} { } E
{w} { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } {Z} { } { } H
{w} { } { } { } { } I
{w} { } { } { } { } J
{w} { } { } { } { } K
{w} { } { } { } { } L
-1---2---3---4---5-

Battle Complete!

Items Found:

Signet x1
Potion x1

100 Gold

Experience:

+5 - Commander
+2 - No D-Abilities
+2 - No Items
+2 - Completed in ≤ 5 Player Phases
+1 - Darragh is alive
+1 - No Inner Power

Total: 13

Alexandria:
0/36 --- 13/36

Zhaoyang:
7/36 --- 20/36

Darragh:
0/24 --- 13/24

- - - - -

(Update Soon)

The man fell to Zhao's impressive magic, leaving behind only his scorched body and a few trace items which Alexandria quickly pocketed. It was not much, but it would help them. Maybe. Their enemy defeated for the moment, it went without saying they had to get out of the place before another siren went off to alert the entire place of their location. And yet Alexandria found herself not moving to leave just yet. Her storm-cloud eyes focused on the lancer who proved to be a very powerful ally in their little skirmish.

"Perhaps that settles our need to talk? We both seem to want the same things." She said with a slight air of yearning in her voice. She really did hope the man would want to come with them.

For a moment, it did not seem as if Darragh had truly heard her. He settled his lance on his shoulder, looking down at the body of his former commander. Zhao stepped around it and paced closer to Alex. He did not know what exactly was going on in the Lancer's mind, and he found himself wishing to see underneath the faceplate of his helmet. What expression would he find there? Grief? Pity? Cold blankness? But the man turned away from the corpse, facing the other two and lifting the faceplate after a moment to reveal what would appear to be his usual smile.

"Well that still depends, don't it? We 'n be fugitives and rebels for entirely diff'rent reasons, now, despite looking for the same ends." He set the lance down and leaned against it like a post.

It was only now that Zhao really heard the man's peculiar accent. He took note of it then set it aside for now. But in response to the man's comment, he huffed almost indignantly. "Regardless, we have a common enemy, and skills that compliment each other." The tiger eyed the man, giving him the most soul-piercing look to which Darragh hardly even batted an eye.

His smile did seem to fade a bit though, and Zhao finally saw it for what it was. A momentary lapse in a facade of cheer and just how pained that smile really was when it came to light, then it was gone when the tiger blinked. "Are ya puttin' me on for a date then?"

Darragh joins the Party!

"That was the prospect from the beginning." Alexandria affirmed with a nod. Her response voiced, she drifted back over to the tiger and swept herself up onto his great back as she usually did. With nothing else tying them down to the current area, the newly formed trio dashed back in the direction of the border gate; it was there and only there that they could escape. Strangely they encountered no issue getting to the gate, nor did there seem any problem with crossing. All of the guards were probably searching frantically for the rebel, and that proved to be in their favor.

However, they were stopped just as they reached the exit, a man suddenly appearing in front of them. "I do believe you've gone far enough." he stated sharply, crimson eyes focused on the lancer. Several soldiers poured out behind him and the group was forced to move backwards. The red-eyed man's gaze darted to the other two. "I must say," his eyes focused on Alexandria specifically, "did you really think you, as rebels yourselves, could infiltrate Glaythia and escape with your lives?" The soldiers around him raised their weapons into a battle stance. "Foolish." The man continued, throwing open his robe to reveal a regal-looking uniform and marvelous leather-bound book.

Chapter II-II: Getaway
Objective: Knock out the opposition and escape with Darragh in tow!
Atmosphere: Namara-Glaythian Border (Not out of the woods just yet, let's kick some ass so we can get the hell out of this f***ed up place! +10% Critical for the Ally Party)


{ } {w} {w} {w} { } { } {w} {w} {w} { } A
{ } {w} {w} {w} { } {A} {w} {w} {w} { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } D
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } E
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } {E} {A} {B} { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } {L} { } {J} { } { } { } H
{=} {=} {=} {=} {X} {X} {=} {=} {=} {=} I
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9--10-


Alexandria *Staff*
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 60/60
IP: 3/10
Atk: 12
Def: 8
Int: 11
Spr: 5
Crit: 5% --- 15%
Evade: 7%
Move: 3 Cells

Alec *Sure Hit*
Hp: 115/115
Mp: 140/140
IP: 0/10
Atk: 7
Def: 8
Int: 14
Spr: 11
Crit: 5%
Evade: 6%
Move: 2 Cells

Erwin
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 30/30
IP: 0/10
Atk: 9
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

Benjamin
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 30/30
IP: 0/10
Atk: 9
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

Joshua
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 30/30
IP: 0/10
Atk: 9
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

Liam
Hp: 40/40
Mp: 30/30
IP: 0/10
Atk: 9
Def: 10
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Crit: 5%
Evade: 4%
Move: 3 Cells

{=} - Border Veil
No Occupy.

{X} - Border Gate
No Occupy.

{w} - Storage Building
No Occupy.

You may start in Rows C-D; Columns 4-7!