Decaying World

Caleb was seeing the situation spiral out of control quickly. His backup copanions weren't able to deal significant damage to Duncan, and the whole fight was going a bad place.
He waves his sword at the most wounded of the Knight Apprentices. They needed to go down, so they could focus on the Rune Knight.

Caleb Attacks Marie! 10 Dmg!(Atk)


Caleb moves to C6.

"What are they two doing? They have should focus on support if they are having so much trouble dealing with him..."

Vera looked over to Dastin, only to see that he was nearly at his limit. Vera wondered what to do for a moment, then she noticed that Caleb had some potions that would undoubtedly help Dastin out. There wasn't enough time to ask Caleb for the potion, so Vera took it into her own hands. Energy began to build up into her cage, much like it did when she attacked the apprentice. However, this time, it went straignt over to Caleb, and engulfed one of the potions. The energy then grew smaller, and it soon disappeared, along with the potion.

Then, seemingly miraculously, the energy reappeared in her cage, and along with it, the potion. Walking over to Dastin, she took it out of the cage, and uncorked the bottle. When she got next to Dastin, she tapped his side to get his attention. Then, speaking for the first time in this fight, she said one word to him so forccefully it almost seemed like a command : "Drink." Vera almost shoved the bottle to Dastin, very nearly forcing him to drink it. In fact, she started tipping it into Dastin's mouth before he could even say otherwise.

Vera moves to cell E8. Vera uses Potion on Dastin! HP: 21/25

Duncan takes 2 Dmg!

HP: 58/120

Duncan evades Wound!

Marie takes 6 Dmg!

HP: 4/25

Nierday, Gallion 3 . 1961 - End of the Line

Location: Runescryum Archives - Front Lot

Objective: Defeat Duncan, Rune Knight of the Blazing Inferno!

Achievement: Put Out the Phoenix's Flames - Show Duncan that the eternal flames are no match for the power of water by finishing him off with an attack of the water element. [10 AP]

Background: ~The Strong Cry Out~

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

Aeria's Hot-Blooded Surge fades.

Dastin's Vicious Blade fades.

Caleb is Burned for 1 more turn.

Enemy Phase.

Duncan moves to G5.

Duncan stepped to the side and surveyed everything in the front lot of the Runescryum Archives from the random coaches to the intent fighters. He laughed. "Performance trouble? Shooting below the belt are we? Well, I've had it up to here with your pathetic taunts and jeers. If you so deign to know the true power of the Inferno Knight, then you'd best prepare yourself now because here it comes!" With that, he raised a booted foot and slammed it into the ground causing a rumbling sound to come from deep beneath the area. The very earth itself grew hot as could be; it would be trouble if anyone didn't have shoes on. In mere moments, blazing torrents of fire blasted out of the ground and ran along in chaotic paths, sometimes completely missing their targets while at others completely enveloping them in horrid flame. No one could escape the power of this heated assault.

Stealing the spotlight with one's own burning fire! The blazing soul is revealed to all! Duncan unleashes the infernal power of Grandiose Flame on all enemies! 7 Piercing Fire Dmg! [Aeria evades Burn][Caleb evades Burn][Vera evades Burn][Dastin is Burned]

Eventually, the flames sizzled out and Duncan clutched the wound on his chest. It hurt much worse than any of the other attacks he had received. Who was it that inflicted it? He had taken so many attacks from so many people that he lost track of which attack came from where. Regardless, it wouldn't matter. He would subdue them all in due time and get treated immediately afterwards. So for now, he hung in there.

Vince moves to C5.

Vince attacks Caleb! 7 Dmg! (ATK)

Marie attacks Aeria! 7 Dmg! (ATK)

Marie waits.

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

Vince's Regen fades.

Marie's Regen fades.

Duncan is Wounded for 2 more turns.

Marie's Protect has 2 more turns.

Neutral Phase.

?????? appears at A4.

It had been such a peaceful night for a stroll. Many nights before had been spent walking about the capitol city of Areht, searching for some tranquility in the restlessness that was her mind. In an attempt to hide her appearance, she had garbed herself in dark cloaks with a hood to obscure her face, even going as far as to wear a wrap around the bottom half of her head, further obscuring her nose and mouth should the hood not be sufficient enough. She was not more than a phantom upon the streets this night, but the sound of commotion and the scent of flames coming from the direction of the archives alerted her and she went to see what was the matter. Had the people finally broken out into open rebellion against the knights for their lackluster approach to solving the problem behind their dying world? It would not have surprised her.

Light footsteps pounded the cobblestone streets as she rushed to the archive building, coming to a halt at the entrance to the front lot. There was Duncan and a couple of knight apprentices facing off with some unknown fighters. Rebels, perhaps? Maybe this will help shake the knights up--get them off their good-for-nothing butts and into some action, she thought as she drew her saber and shield. As far as she knew, she had the element of surprise, but instead of confronting Duncan directly, she would eliminate one of the already weakened links.

?????? casts Photon on Marie! 11 Light Dmg! (INT)

MP: 27/39

"Gathering of light particles, shine! Photon!" The voice rang out through the area, the words so precisely spoken with authority. Small spheres of light mana began to form around the female knight. More and more joined the original few before each expanded to surround the woman. In mere seconds, the light exploded, scattered remnants of light mana pulsating outwards, carried upon the light night breeze. The woman, which could only really be told from her voice, now stood with her eyes hidden, staring at Duncan. Even if he could not see the eyes, he would definitely feel the harshness of the gaze upon him.

?????? moves to C4.

It was then that the woman stepped forward until she was right behind the male knight apprentice, not even deigning to turn her head to look at him. He might as well have been naught more than an insignificant insect. Duncan was the real problem at the moment. She would make him bow before the light.

{f} {f} {f} { } { } { } {f} {f} {f} A
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } {?} {V} {C} { } { } { } C
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } D
{c} {c} { } { } { } { } { } {V} { } E
{c} {c} { } { } { } {A} {M} {D} { } F
{c} {c} { } { } {D} { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } { } { } {V} {V} {V} { } { } { } I
{w} {w} {w} {X} {X} {X} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 9!

Aeria (Fighter)
HP: 12/35
MP: 0/20
DD: 7/10
Atk: 8
Def: 7
Int: 2
Spr: 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Caleb (Soul Blade) *BURN [4]* *CRITICAL*
HP: 3/30
MP: 1/25
DD: 2/10
Atk: 10
Def: 5
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Vera (Strange Girl) *CRITICAL*
HP: 1/15
MP: 1/25
DD: 3/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 5
Spr: 4
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Dastin (Twin Carrier) *DARK AFFINITY* *BURN [3]*
HP: 11/25
MP: 8/20
DD: 10/10
Atk: 6
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Duncan (Rune Knight) *SCORCHING PULSE [11]* *RERAISE* *WOUND [12]*
HP: 46/120
MP: 75/75
DD: 0/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 6
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Vince (Knight Apprentice)
HP: 25/25
MP: 20/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Marie (Knight Apprentice) *KO*

?????? (Cleric)
HP: 28/28
MP: 27/39
DD: 1/10
Atk: 7
Def: 7
Int: 8
Spr: 10
Evade: 5%
Move: 2 cells

{X} - Archives Entrance (cannot be occupied)

{V} - Blazing Flame (cannot be occupied by any means)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{f} - Fence (cannot be occupied)

{c} - Coach (cannot be occupied)

Aeria uses Mana Powder on herself! [+10 MP Recovered]

MP: 10/20

Aeria listened as Duncan droned on, but cringed as she realized that he had something up his sleeve. "Should have seen this coming," she growled as she raised her hands in front of her face. The ground was trembling slightly, and in moments she could feel the blazing heat of fire surge through her form. Again and again, she was subject to the heat. She could feel the fire scorching every piece of exposed flesh that it could manage. Eventually, she felt the temperature drop significantly and lowered her defense. Examining her skin, she realized the burns could have been worse, but it still hurt horribly, not to mention that the others didn't look to be in good shape. Aeria quickly reached into her pocket and retrieved some of the powder they had managed to pick up back in the archive. She allowed the stuff to rest under her tongue and let it dissolve which effectively cleansed some of her used mana making it available for use once again.

She sighed in false content. The battle was still far from over, it seemed, but hope appeared to be restored as words rang clearly through the air. Aeria turned her head to see a figure in all black standing over near where Caleb was at the entrance to the lot. Something caught her attention out of the corner of her eye as she realized the words the woman had spoken belonged to a spell. Light was collapsing in on the female knight apprentice, and Aeria was forced to close her eyes as the bright mana expanded outwards in an explosion leaving nothing but a crumpled heap of a former knight apprentice upon the ground. Whoever the person was, he or she, most likely she from the sound of the voice, was very adept at magic. Aeria was glad that she was on their side and not Duncan's.

Aeria waits.

The last thoughts through Dastin's mind rang out through verbal cursing before he was immediately drenched in the infernal hell summoned by Duncan. He yelled out as the wicked blaze consumed him, contradicting what the potion had healed and searing his skin to the point of agony. He attempted to pull himself from his currently crumpled position, feeling intense pain all throughout the process. What had just happened?... He observed his arms, eyes widening in pure shock to what he saw. Completely red. His arms had been seared, scorched to the point of being as red as the flames themselves. He shook, quaked with shock... and anger.

Swiftly Dastin picked up his blades, ignoring the pain as the fire had set ablaze his hatred. This Rune Knight would fall to his vicious wrath, mercilessly.

[Dastin uses Vicious Blade!]
[0/20 MP]
[Dastin waits....]

Caleb heard the Rune Knight cry out as the whole party was engulfed in flames. So the bastard had a trick up his sleeve after all? His skin seared and his flesh burned and blackened, and the Soul Blade allowed himself to close his eyes and bend down in pain. As his eyes opened again, the attack seemed to have brought more pain than actual damage, but his companions still were pretty damaged. Caleb ignored the Apprentice trying to slash at him and reached for his pocket, as a mysterious figure appeared out of nowhere to blast the female apprentice in light. No questions, he was glad they had help, and would think more about it later. In a long gulp, he drank the healing potion, readying himself to go back to the fight.

Caleb uses a Potion!

Caleb waits.

Everything happened so quickly. First, the haughty knight used a very powerful magic. The ground almost seemed to explode with fire, searing everybody. It hurt very bad, though Vera knew that it could have been much worse. The burns on her skin were painful, yes, but not excrusiatingly so. Thinking for only a moment, Vera again called the mysterious energy to her cage. The energy slowly went out of her cage towards Caleb once again. Once it engulfed one of his potions, it disappeared as before, and reappeared in her cage with the potion. Vera again pulled the cap off, but this time she raised it to her own lips.

The potion was quite bitter, causing Vera to cringe slightly as she drank it, but she knew that she had no choice. Soon, the discomfort ended by the last drop of the bottle entering her mouth. Shrugging, Vera dropped the bottle on the ground, since she had no other use for it.

Vera uses a potion on herself. HP: 15/15. Vera waits.

Duncan takes 1 Dmg!

HP: 45/120

Duncan is Targeted!

Nierday, Gallion 3 . 1961 - End of the Line

Location: Runescryum Archives - Front Lot

Objective: Defeat Duncan, Rune Knight of the Blazing Inferno!

Achievement: Put Out the Phoenix's Flames - Show Duncan that the eternal flames are no match for the power of water by finishing him off with an attack of the water element. [10 AP]

Background: ~The Strong Cry Out~

{f} {f} {f} { } { } { } {f} {f} {f} A
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } {?} {V} {C} { } { } { } C
{ } { } {I} { } { } { } { } { } { } D
{c} {c} { } { } { } { } { } {V} { } E
{c} {c} { } { } { } {A} { } {D} { } F
{c} {c} { } { } {D} { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } { } { } {V} {V} {V} { } { } { } I
{w} {w} {w} {X} {X} {X} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Caleb is no longer Burned.

Dastin's Vicious Blade has 3 turns.

Dastin is Burned for 2 more turns.

Enemy Phase.

Duncan moves to F5.

The voice had sounded so familiar to Duncan, along with the masterful command over light magic. Where had he heard the voice before though? No matter how hard he thought about it, he couldn't place it. Dark cloaks in the night...surely it couldn't be someone he knew. Shaking his head, Duncan slid next to Aeria and unleashed two blazing slashes, following up the blazing blows with two quicker slashes and finishing by raising his hand upwards causing a spout of magma to surge out of the ground, enveloping Aeria completely. "More and more miscreants coming out of hiding. All of you are traitors and will be put to death!" Duncan exclaimed as he made sure to gaze at the gunner and the mysterious light magic-casting woman. It was definitely a woman by the voice. But why is it so damn familiar?! Duncan growled in his mind as he readied himself for impending counterattacks.

Duncan attacks Aeria! 2 hits! 12 Fire Dmg per hit! (ATK)
---Duncan links Double Slash! 2 hits! 9 Dmg per hit! (ATK) [MISS (1st)]
---Duncan links Volcano! 9 Fire Dmg! (INT)

MP: 61/75

Vince attacks ??????! 7 Dmg! (ATK)

Vince waits.

{f} {f} {f} { } { } { } {f} {f} {f} A
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } {?} {V} {C} { } { } { } C
{ } { } {I} { } { } { } { } { } { } D
{c} {c} { } { } { } { } { } {V} { } E
{c} {c} { } { } {D} {A} { } {D} { } F
{c} {c} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } { } { } {V} {V} {V} { } { } { } I
{w} {w} {w} {X} {X} {X} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Duncan is Wounded for 1 more turn.

Neutral Phase.

?????? takes 1 Dmg!

HP: 27/28

?????? casts Photon on Vince! 11 Light Dmg! (INT)
---?????? initiates Fortune's Arc! (1/2)

MP: 15/39

So, the henchman was intent to try to do away with her? For shame. She had hoped that Duncan would take her on personally, but then she realized that he hadn't figured out who she was which was probably for the best. She had been worried that her incantations and magic would give her away, but it seemed she was safe for now. Regardless, the henchman needed to die. "Gathering of light particles, shine! Photon!" she chanted, watching as small spheres of light appeared in the air around the knight apprentice. The spheres expanded suddenly, completely enveloping the fellow before exploding violently sending the remnants of light energy to soar through the air before flickering out of existence completely. Granted, she was far from finished with her task.

"O blazing light, carve a path across the sky...," she continued, a white glyph appearing beneath her. It glowed with light energy, and particles of light surged upwards around her, twinkling like stars as they arose to meet the black sky. She kept her eyes closed as she focused the spell, expecting to be able to release its full power very soon.

?????? waits.

{f} {f} {f} { } { } { } {f} {f} {f} A
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } B
{ } { } { } {?} {V} {C} { } { } { } C
{ } { } {I} { } { } { } { } { } { } D
{c} {c} { } { } { } { } { } {V} { } E
{c} {c} { } { } {D} {A} { } {D} { } F
{c} {c} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } { } { } {V} {V} {V} { } { } { } I
{w} {w} {w} {X} {X} {X} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Player Phase 10!

Aeria (Fighter) *CRITICAL*
HP: 4/35
MP: 10/20
DD: 7/10
Atk: 8
Def: 7
Int: 2
Spr: 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Violet (Gunner)
HP: 20/20
MP: 20/20
DD: 1/10
Atk: 6
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Caleb (Soul Blade)
HP: 23/30
MP: 1/25
DD: 2/10
Atk: 10
Def: 5
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Vera (Strange Girl)
HP: 15/15
MP: 1/25
DD: 3/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 5
Spr: 4
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Dastin (Twin Carrier) *DARK AFFINITY* *BURN [3]* *VICIOUS BLADE*
HP: 8/25
MP: 0/20
DD: 10/10
Atk: 6
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Duncan (Rune Knight) *SCORCHING PULSE [11]* *RERAISE* *WOUND [12]* *TARGET*
HP: 33/120
MP: 61/75
DD: 4/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 6
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Vince (Knight Apprentice)
HP: 17/25
MP: 20/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Marie (Knight Apprentice) *KO*

?????? (Cleric)
HP: 27/28
MP: 15/39
DD: 2/10
Atk: 7
Def: 7
Int: 8
Spr: 10
Evade: 5%
Move: 2 cells

{X} - Archives Entrance (cannot be occupied)

{V} - Blazing Flame (cannot be occupied by any means)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{f} - Fence (cannot be occupied)

{c} - Coach (cannot be occupied)

Aeria uses a Potion on herself! [+20 HP Recovered]

HP: 24/35

Duncan's attacks were brutal and relentless. His combination of fiery blows and quick slashes was something she found hard to dodge, only managing to sidestep one of the attacks aimed at her. The rest left her in pain, falling down to one knee. She rummaged through her bag and produced a vial of liquid. Uncorking the cap, she placed her mouth to the opening and downed every drop of the stuff, tossing the empty vial away. The flavor was definitely not something to savor, but it allowed Aeria to stand once more. "Save the death threats for when you actually manage to put one of us down, buddy," Aeria taunted, trying to keep the attention on her. Their mysterious cloaked friend was doing a lot to help, and the woman with the gun that had appeared was definitely welcomed help. Together, they'd all be able to put Duncan in his place and escape. It was proving to be a very difficult fight--a battle of patience, in essence. However, patience was something Aeria had an overabundance of, and if it meant being able to see this arrogant knight put in his place, then it would be worth it to wait this thing out. Now that she was back up on her feet, she'd be able to fight back with her all again.

Aeria waits.

The battle was getting not only crowded, but confusing. Well, Caleb wouldn't be the one to complain, as it seemed to be getting easier in the process. Saving questions for later, Caleb focused his anger on the Knight Apprentice still standing. He wanted to leave Duncan fighting alone. His broadsword takes place in his hand and the Soul Blade, taking a moment to feel the smooth friction between his hand and the sword's handle, proceeded to pierce his enemy with it.

Caleb attacks Vince! 10 Dmg! (Atk)

Caleb waits.

Dastin retreated slightly as he felt the burns singe his skin painfully. His eyes kept a firm glare on the Rune Knight which had caused this on him, plotting on how he would ultimately slay him and bring him to death. The only thing he could do for now was to stay back and await his next moment to strike...

/I will take over, Dastin./ Kydrin's voice rang out through his mind. Dastin sighed, feeling the domination over this vessel slipping as Kydrin resumed control. The transparent barrier lifts over the body as a bright light overwhelms Dastin, and a moment later the blond-haired, blue-eyed destinctions of Kydrin are revealed as he regains his footing. "I'm going to finish this." Kydrin muttered, blades held up threateningly.

[Dastin uses Soul-Switch!]
[Dark ---> Light]
[Kydrin's S-ability Symbiosis activates! 3 HP recovery!]
[Kydrin moves to D7 (F8, F7, E7, D7)]
[Kydrin waits...]

"To the dungeons with you, little girl," a raspy voice belonging to a male echoed around the area nearest Vera as a strange pool of shadows appeared beneath the young girl. She fell right through before she had any idea what was going on, and the pool of shadows closed and disappeared almost as quickly as it had been created. Vera was gone.

* * *

Duncan dodges Violet's attack!

Vince takes 6 Dmg!

HP: 11/25

Duncan is Targeted!

Nierday, Gallion 3 . 1961 - End of the Line

Location: Runescryum Archives - Front Lot

Objective: Defeat Duncan, Rune Knight of the Blazing Inferno!

Achievement: Put Out the Phoenix's Flames - Show Duncan that the eternal flames are no match for the power of water by finishing him off with an attack of the water element. [10 AP]

Background: ~The Strong Cry Out~

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

Kydrin's Vicious Blade has 2 turns left.

Kydrin is Burned for 1 more turn.

Enemy Phase.

Duncan attacks Aeria! 2 hits! 12 Fire Dmg per hit! (ATK)
---Duncan links Double Slash! 2 hits! 9 Dmg per hit! (ATK)
---Duncan links Volcano! 9 Fire Dmg! (INT)

MP: 47/75

Duncan stayed focused on Aeria. It seemed that she along with the others had come adequately prepared with all sorts of items. It made Duncan furious that he hadn't possessed a similar insight, granted he figured himself powerful enough to handle anything that crossed his path. Apparently, that wasn't the case. Growling, Duncan dealt one fiery blow after another, following up with two more quick slashes and finishing by conjuring another pillar of magma that surged up from below Aeria to scorch her as it had before. "Consume as many potions as you so desire, but you will fall in due time," he spat at Aeria through gritted teeth as he readied himself to receive more blows.

Duncan waits.

Vince uses Double Slash on ??????! 2 hits! 6 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

MP: 14/20

Vince waits.

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

Duncan is no longer Wounded.

Neutral Phase.

?????? takes 2 Dmg!

HP: 25/28

R-Ability Constant Vigilance activates!

?????? casts Recover on Kydrin! [+9 HP Recovered]

MP: 8/39

"Light, heal!" The woman's eyes shot open suddenly and a sphere of light shot out of the array below her, heading straight towards Kydrin in an arc. The moment it struck his form, some of his wounds were instantly healed, granted they wouldn't all be taken care of. However, some alleviation was a true gift given how fast Duncan was able to dish out the pain. It was then that the woman set about completing the spell she was charging up before.

?????? casts Fortune's Arc on Duncan! 14 Light Dmg! (INT)

MP: 0/39

"Fortune's Arc!!" The mysterious woman swiped her hand overhead forwards in a direction that led to Duncan. In response to her gesture, a sphere of light formed and shot along the invisible trail set by the woman until it crashed into Duncan like a comet, exploding in a blast of light on impact. He really is dense if he doesn't know who I am by now, she thought, rolling her eyes before digging into her pocket to pull out a small jar with a weird mist in it. She took off the lid and placed the jar to her nose, inhaling the mist that had rested within.

?????? uses Mana Essence on herself! [+39 MP Recovered]

MP: 39/39

?????? waits.

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

Player Phase 11!

Aeria (Fighter)
HP: 15/35
MP: 10/20
DD: 7/10
Atk: 8
Def: 7
Int: 2
Spr: 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Violet (Gunner)
HP: 20/20
MP: 20/20
DD: 1/10
Atk: 6
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Caleb (Soul Blade)
HP: 23/30
MP: 1/25
DD: 3/10
Atk: 10
Def: 5
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Kydrin (Twin Carrier) *LIGHT AFFINITY* *BURN [3]* *VICIOUS BLADE*
HP: 17/25
MP: 0/20
DD: 10/10
Atk: 6
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Duncan (Rune Knight) *SCORCHING PULSE [11]* *RERAISE* *TARGET* *CRITICAL*
HP: 24/120
MP: 58/75
DD: 9/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 6
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Vince (Knight Apprentice)
HP: 11/25
MP: 14/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Marie (Knight Apprentice) *KO*

?????? (Cleric)
HP: 25/28
MP: 39/39
DD: 3/10
Atk: 7
Def: 7
Int: 8
Spr: 10
Evade: 5%
Move: 2 cells

{X} - Archives Entrance (cannot be occupied)

{V} - Blazing Flame (cannot be occupied by any means)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{f} - Fence (cannot be occupied)

{c} - Coach (cannot be occupied)

Aeria uses Hot-Blooded Surge! [ATK +40%][Draws the attention of enemies upon attacking]

MP: 4/20

Aeria was getting to the point where she had become so used to the extensive heat that it didn't even really affect her anymore. Sweat still poured from her ashen brow, and her skin was still scorched, but the pain wasn't as intense as it had been in the beginning. However, she knew in the back of her mind that her body could still give way at any moment. "It's all about strategy, Duncan. We gotta keep going so we'll do whatever it takes to do it," she snarled right back at him which seemed to automatically evoke the red aura to surround her, empowering her blows while inspiring even more anger in Duncan, or at least it would when she got another chance to slice at the fellow. Before, Aeria had thought she heard a weird voice, but she paid it no heed for the moment. Her attention was solely focused on Duncan at the moment. By the looks of it, he seemed to be reaching his limits as well the longer the battle went on.

Aeria waits.

Kydrin almost flinched as a light struck his body, then relaxed and let a sigh of relief as some of his wounds sealed up, smiling. He looked toward the concealed woman, smiling and nodding. "Thank you, stranger," he replied, then raised his weapons, the dark dao in his hand still emanating the dark energy Dastin had conjured. He was going to end the Rune Knight for both of them.

Quickly he dashed, his body blurring as he flipped and landed to a stop, spinning and quickly delivering two powerful blows to the Rune Knight's torso.

[Kydrin moves to E5 (D7, E7, E6, E5)]
[Kydrin attacks Duncan! 6 Damage! 6 Damage! Chance of Wound (Stack)!]

Caleb was getting angrier and angrier, but he had to agree, that fight was the thrill he had been looking for ever since he entered that building. He would take down the Rune Knight, and he would have his blade, and that was a promisse!

But first, some weakling had to be dealt with. The Soul Blade spinned quickly and slashed at the Knight Apprentice next to him. A smooth horizontal slash.

Caleb Attacks Vince! 10 Dmg!(Atk)

Caleb waits.

Duncan takes 3 Dmg!

HP: 21/120

Duncan is Wounded!

Vince takes 6 Dmg!

HP: 5/25

S-Ability Guardian activates! [Bestows Protect]

Duncan is Targeted!

Nierday, Gallion 3 . 1961 - End of the Line

Location: Runescryum Archives - Front Lot

Objective: Defeat Duncan, Rune Knight of the Blazing Inferno!

Achievement: Put Out the Phoenix's Flames - Show Duncan that the eternal flames are no match for the power of water by finishing him off with an attack of the water element. [10 AP]

Background: ~The Strong Cry Out~

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

Kydrin's Vicious Blade has 1 turn left.

Kydrin is no longer Burned.

Aeria's Hot-Blooded Surge has 3 turns.

Enemy Phase.

Duncan attacks Aeria! 2 hits! 12 Fire Dmg per hit! (ATK)
---Duncan links Double Slash! 2 hits! 9 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

MP: 52/75

Duncan uses Volcano on Kydrin! 9 Fire Dmg! (INT)

MP: 44/75

"Tch, I guess you're right," Duncan managed to reply wearily. Things were not looking good for him and he knew it. There wasn't much longer he could last at this rate. I don't understand. How is this possible?! Brendan, what am I doing wrong? Damn it... the rune knight thought in utmost despair as he swiped his blazing sword at Aeria, following up with a quick double slash. It was then that he turned on another nearby annoyance and blasted the guy with a column of magma that erupted from beneath his feet. Even in the condition that he was in, he stood his ground. The pride and dignity of a rune knight still coursed through his veins like fire, and he wasn't about to leave both in the dust with no regard. However, he was severely doubting his ability to defeat these renegades. They were nobodies, but there were a lot of them, and the knight apprentices were hardly any help. It was ridiculous. The Head Coordinator is going to have my ass for this if I fail...but at least then we can redouble efforts to catch these criminals. Maybe get some elites as henchmen...

Duncan waits.

Vince uses Glancing Blow on Caleb! 8 Dmg! (ATK) [Caleb is Bleeding]

MP: 8/20

Vince waits.

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

Duncan is Wounded for 3 turns.

Vince's Protect has 3 turns.

Neutral Phase.

Yes, it does indeed appear that he is dense, the mysteriously dressed woman sighed mentally before she began channeling her mana. She had to hand it to the rookies around her; they were really giving the rune knight a run for his money. Perhaps they would have what it took to discover the truth. One can only hope. She pointed a finger at Duncan. "Gathering of light particles, shine! Photon!!" the woman chanted. Little spheres of light appeared all around Duncan and immediately set about growing larger until he was completely enveloped. The light seemed to resonate slightly before exploding in a brilliant flash.

?????? casts Photon on Duncan! 11 Light Dmg! (INT)

MP: 27/39

That wasn't going to be enough and the woman knew it. The good thing about her position was that she had extensive information on the rune knights, and she knew that Duncan had a habit of harnessing the power of the blazing phoenix in order to resurrect himself, but the blessing only worked once within a certain period of time. Looks like he's going full power; this must be pre-resurrection, the woman thought, gathering the residual mana she had unleashed to link another spell. "O blazing light, carve a path across the sky..." she muttered the incantation for her follow-up spell, keeping her mind clear to make sure she could cast it with no interference.

?????? initiates Fortune's Arc! (1/2)

A white glyph appeared beneath the woman, and she wasn't going anywhere. There was no need to. The light would go where she directed it, no matter how far as long as she had a clear target in mind and eye. With that knowledge flowing through her, she remained calm, for the end was near, and she would have to make her own getaway.

?????? waits.

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

Player Phase 12!

Aeria (Fighter) *HOT-BLOODED SURGE*
HP: 7/35
MP: 4/20
DD: 7/10
Atk: 8 --- 11
Def: 7
Int: 2
Spr: 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Violet (Gunner)
HP: 20/20
MP: 20/20
DD: 2/10
Atk: 6
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Caleb (Soul Blade) *BLEEDING [4]*
HP: 16/30
MP: 1/25
DD: 4/10
Atk: 10
Def: 5
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Kydrin (Twin Carrier) *LIGHT AFFINITY* *VICIOUS BLADE*
HP: 10/25
MP: 0/20
DD: 10/10
Atk: 6
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Duncan (Rune Knight) *SCORCHING PULSE [11]* *RERAISE* *TARGET* *CRITICAL* *WOUND [12]*
HP: 3/120
MP: 55/75
DD: 10/10
Atk: 10
Def: 8
Int: 6
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Vince (Knight Apprentice) *PROTECT*
HP: 5/25
MP: 8/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Marie (Knight Apprentice) *KO*

?????? (Cleric)
HP: 25/28
MP: 27/39
DD: 4/10
Atk: 7
Def: 7
Int: 8
Spr: 10
Evade: 5%
Move: 2 cells

{X} - Archives Entrance (cannot be occupied)

{V} - Blazing Flame (cannot be occupied by any means)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{f} - Fence (cannot be occupied)

{c} - Coach (cannot be occupied)

"At least you see things my way now," Aeria replied flatly, definitely not enthused by anything, for she felt so weak after tangoing with Duncan. Slash after burning slash he had landed upon her, and it was taking its toll. He looked in pretty sorry shape, but she wasn't much better. Her open wounds were searing the night air, and the gray ash upon her skin made her look like she hadn't bathed in weeks. In Duncan's eyes, she probably did look like a dirty criminal. At least she was becoming used to the heat, and the nifty amulet they had found earlier within the archives was helping. With her aura blazing around her, Aeria ventured another attack on Duncan, swinging her sword at his body, hoping to end this once and for all.

Aeria attacks Duncan! 11 Dmg! (ATK)

Panting heavily, Aeria held her ground. She was the shield. She was supposed to protect everyone. However, she couldn't help but think that she was doing a shoddy job of it. Without the mysterious, light-wielding woman aiding them, there was a chance that they would have all been dead by now, including herself. As sturdy as she was, there was only so much she could take...

Aeria waits.

The Soul Blade gasped, the sword cutting deep in his flesh. He could feel the blood pouring. He was used to it, intense bleeding was the first thing he had to learn to cope with when absorbing Juuchi Yosamu. Still, he was not in a position where he could risk more wounds.

He looked to Aeria, and she seemed to be dealing the decisive blow to that Rune Knight, but, for some reason, he didn't feel like this was ending. No...he had a bad feeling about the spell he cast at the start of the fight. This was only the begining...

-Oh, just die at once!

Caleb Attacks Vince! 10 Dmg!(Atk)

Caleb waits.

Kydrin yelled out as crimson magma erupted from below him, causing him to fall back with pain, feeling the very heat of the strike searg at his flesh again. He felt the hot ashes fall upon his being, making him shudder before he slowly rose to his feet, panting powerfully at the effort to absorb what air he could from his charcoal-tasting throat. He could feel his energy fading, but the words of his brother in his mind only kept him gripping his blades.

You can't lose, Kydrin, he hissed, steadying him mentally as he helped enhance focus. You can't this deadbeat beat you dead.

Kydrin nodded in response, his breath slowing and steadying to a calm, intense pace. He couldn't lose. However, his gaze diverted from the Rune Knight toward the abused, beaten figure of the ally he was fighting with. Her form obviously displayed torture from fire, her skin mostly covered in the grey of the flames given to her being, the only definable features on her being the crimson-colored wounds open to the atmosphere. Kydrin bit his lip, the sudden urge of aid immediately catching him. She's hurt, Dastin, he stated firmly in his mind. What can you do, Kydrin? Forget her, finish this man!

Kydrin tense himself, immediately hesitating to complete the strike on the knight before him, eyes still stuck on the woman. There had to be something- suddenly, a gleam. Kydrin's eyes averted to the ground, widening as his eyes befell upon the familiar shape and innards of what would be a potion. Looking back up at the woman, he felt the urge even stronger now. No, Kydrin! Fi- The thought processes of the Twin Carrier stopped as the being before him suddenly burst into flames, causing him to double back before steadying himself. With the sudden diversion, he swiftly tucked his swords away, rolling over and grabbing the potion from the ground- hadn't Vera been here?- and tossed it over to the woman with a call to grab her attention. With another swift twirl on his heel, he moved back to position and revealed his blades once again, focusing his attention on the ablaze Rune Knight.

Kydrin moves to E6!
Kydrin uses Potion on Aeria!

Duncan takes 3 Dmg!

Duncan PERFECT KILL!!

Vince takes 4 Dmg!

HP: 1/25

Vince is Targeted!

Nierday, Gallion 3 . 1961 - End of the Line

Location: Runescryum Archives - Front Lot

Objective: Defeat Duncan, Rune Knight of the Blazing Inferno!

Achievement: Put Out the Phoenix's Flames - Show Duncan that the eternal flames are no match for the power of water by finishing him off with an attack of the water element. [10 AP]

Background: ~The Strong Cry Out~

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

Kydrin's Vicious Blade fades.

Aeria's Hot-Blooded Surge has 2 turns left.

Caleb is Bleeding for 2 more turns.

Enemy Phase.

The flames of the phoenix surge to life, and from his own ashes, Duncan is reborn!

The slash from Aeria's blade struck true, and Duncan had reached the end of his limit. It was over. His heartbeat slowed and the pain of his wounds overwhelmed him as the adrenaline wore off almost in a single instant. The blaze in his eyes faded, and his eyes glazed over. The raging fires that were so lively in front of the entrance to the Runescryum Archives died down slowly until there was nothing but smoldering embers upon the ground. But Duncan was not done. Not just yet. Fire erupted all around the rune knight in the shape of a glorious bird that could only be called a phoenix. It pumped Duncan full of life, but the heat of the flames completely shattered his armor along with his nifty golden chain. Even though his defenses had been minimized, he had a second chance. Taking his sword, he sliced through the fire and it was quelled in an instant. A confident grin rested on his face as he stood strong and proud. "The life of a rune knight is not ended that easily, you foolish renegades. Now, it shall be your lives that are taken!" he roared, readying himself for the second bout.

Duncan waits.

Vince attacks Caleb! 7 Dmg! (ATK)

Vince waits.

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

Vince's Protect has 2 turns left.

Neutral Phase.

?????? casts Fortune's Arc on Duncan! 14 Light Dmg! (INT)

MP: 19/39

There it was. Looking at that cocky grin on Duncan's face really steamed the woman up. The rune knights were supposed to be proud representatives of Aldasrune, meant to protect the country. That much was true, but Duncan was the worst example to walk the halls of the Runescryum Archives and main headquarters. He was terrorizing these folks for seeking out the truth, and she was not going to have it. She was about tired of their lives herself. "Fortune's Arc!" With the exclamation, she swung an arm forward, tracing a path in the air in front of her that led towards Duncan. In response, a comet of light shot forth along an arc and crashed into the newly resurrected Duncan, exploding on contact. "Gathering of light particles, shine! Photon!" A myriad of small light spheres appeared around Duncan and grew until the rune knight was completely enveloped. There was another explosion, and the damage was done, the light floating up into the air before dissipating completely. She would need more mana soon.

"You should finish this guy off and stay close to me. I'll heal you, okay?" she said politely to Caleb, meeting his gaze for just a moment before turning her head to focus on Duncan again. She needed a useful and efficient way to spend the last of her mana, and that seemed to be a great way to do it. She noticed another fellow who was looking worse for wear. It seemed she would need the light in order to heal the wounds of the injured now, even though it was quite effective at devastating Duncan.

?????? casts Photon on Duncan! 11 Light Dmg! (INT)

MP: 7/39

?????? waits.

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

Player Phase 13!

Aeria (Fighter) *HOT-BLOODED SURGE*
HP: 27/35
MP: 4/20
DD: 8/10
Atk: 8 --- 11
Def: 7
Int: 2
Spr: 7
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Violet (Gunner)
HP: 20/20
MP: 20/20
DD: 3/10
Atk: 6
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Caleb (Soul Blade) *BLEEDING [4]*
HP: 10/30
MP: 1/25
DD: 5/10
Atk: 10
Def: 5
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Kydrin (Twin Carrier) *LIGHT AFFINITY* *VICIOUS BLADE*
HP: 10/25
MP: 0/20
DD: 10/10
Atk: 6
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Duncan (Rune Knight)
HP: 51/70
MP: 35/35
DD: 0/10
Atk: 10
Def: 5
Int: 6
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Vince (Knight Apprentice) *PROTECT* *CRITICAL*
HP: 1/25
MP: 8/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 1
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Marie (Knight Apprentice) *KO*

?????? (Cleric)
HP: 25/28
MP: 7/39
DD: 6/10
Atk: 7
Def: 7
Int: 8
Spr: 10
Evade: 5%
Move: 2 cells

{X} - Archives Entrance (cannot be occupied)

{V} - Blazing Flame (cannot be occupied by any means)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{f} - Fence (cannot be occupied)

{c} - Coach (cannot be occupied)

Aeria attacks Duncan! 11 Dmg! (ATK)

"Uh, thanks there," Aeria uttered her appreciation to the man next to her. They had no time for introductions earlier. Such niceties could wait until their lives weren't in danger, and apparently they were quite finished yet. Aeria covered her eyes as the mysterious woman in the distance continued to unleash her barrage of powerful light magic. She was such a godsend, and she wondered if she would become a fellow truth-seeker along with the others. If not, Aeria wondered what her reasons could be for helping them. Regardless, she voided her thoughts and slashed at Duncan, really intent to wipe that annoying smirk off his face. "So we get to kick your ass a bit more? I wouldn't be so happy about that if I were you, Duncan," Aeria shot at the rune knight mockingly with her own leering smile, eyes filled with contempt. Did he really think that a few minutes would be enough time to turn this battle around? It was hopeless, and the sooner this defiant knight realized that, the sooner they could make their getaway and tend to their wounds and make introductions and anything else Aeria may have forgotten.

Aeria waits.

Kydrin took a step back slightly as the flames cleared, seeing a bare-armored but lively Duncan back int effect and ready to take them one again. Hesitantly, he began to back away ever so slightly. He was in no condition to continue battle again. His skin was charred, his energy was out, and an angry being in his head was screaming at him to make the move to finish off the revived Rune Knight. He had to make a move, that was for sure.

With a sudden realization, he reached down to his pocket and retrieved a small sack, opening and revealing a beautiful bluish powder. The literal scent of revitalization wafted from the powder, giving Kydrin the immediate hint to consume it, and he did. The powder tickled and immediately disintegrated on his tongue, not giving a taste, but a feeling. Immediately his energy seemed to restore, his body strengthening significantly and causing Kydrin to sigh.

Now we can fight.

Kydrin moves to D4.
Kydrin uses Mana Powder on Self! +10 MP!
[10/20 MP]

The blood ran quick from his open wound, but Caleb payed no attention to it, he was too excited, his bleeding meant nothing. He took the woman's words and looked to the knight, but the sound of a gun shooting told him Violet had taken care of it. The Soul Blade let go of his sword, leaving it to fly freely in the air.

Caleb spinned on his heels waving his arm in a wide arc. He stepped over the falling knight as if he was no more than a carpet, and moved towards the female spellcaster, the sword copying his arm and swinging wide along with his body, to meet the unprotected Rune Knight in the middle of the way. Cooperation, strategy. He felt like he was back on the Marks again, pairing up beside Lance and getting suport from Arc and Escad. In a sense, these people reminded him of his old friends, and Aeria's words only helped bring up that feeling.


-Look at yourself, Duncan. You are broken, my friend...a broken blade. I understand, I feel you. Lay down now and spare the life you so mercifully got back. You have seen the other side, you know you don't want to go back there. Listen to me, a life is worth nothing if it is thrown away. You have no purpose, and thus, is destined to fail.

Caleb moves to C5

Caleb attacks Duncan! 10 Dmg!(Atk)

Duncan takes 11 Dmg!

HP: 40/70

Vince takes 2 Dmg!

Vince KO!

Duncan is Targeted!

Nierday, Gallion 3 . 1961 - End of the Line

Location: Runescryum Archives - Front Lot

Objective: Defeat Duncan, Rune Knight of the Blazing Inferno!

Achievement: Put Out the Phoenix's Flames - Show Duncan that the eternal flames are no match for the power of water by finishing him off with an attack of the water element. [10 AP]

Background: ~The Strong Cry Out~

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

Aeria's Hot-Blooded Surge has 1 turn left.

Caleb is Bleeding for 1 more turn.

Enemy Phase.

Duncan uses Trigger Command: Phoenix Remnant on all enemies! [Target DEF and SPR -10%]

Duncan didn't stop smiling.  Not at all.  He waved a hand through the air and flaming feathers danced into life in the air, swirling about.  The heat they radiated was surprisingly immense.  Acting upon the weathered beings, they only served to reduce the guard of those fighting so valiantly against the rune knight.  However, Duncan was intent to fulfill his duty.  His saber blazed to life as the feathers finally hit the ground and turned to ashes.  Slashing out at Aeria twice, the flames subsided as he dealt two faster blows in succession, finishing with a blast of magma that surged out from under Aeria.  "You do not realize what is at stake!  I cannot stop until I have apprehended each and every one of you!" the rune knight shouted, his face contorted into one of angered urgency.  Of course they wouldn't understand.  He knew they weren't really renegades or criminals.  Damn it, why did they have to put me in this position? he growled in his mind, cursing the fact that he was the only rune knight around at the moment.  Had Brendan been here, these curious fighters would be wiped out by now.  Duncan sighed as he continued to remain on guard.  I guess she was right.  I can't rely on my brother all the time.

Duncan attacks Aeria!  2 hits!  12 Fire Dmg per hit! (ATK)
---Duncan links Double Slash!  2 hits!  9 Dmg per hit! (ATK) [MISS x1]
---Duncan links Volcano!  9 Fire Dmg! (INT)

MP: 21/35

Duncan waits.

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

Neutral Phase.

?????? initiates Recover! (1/2)

The woman raised an arm as the feathers surrounded her.  Parts of her robes became scorched just because of their heat, and that worried her.  She couldn't lose her cover.  Luckily, the spell didn't last long and she was able to focus once more.  Light surged up around her as she began to cast the spell that she promised the man beside her.  "Quickly, light surge into the wounds of the broken!" she chanted.  The light seemed to resonate around her and she began to channel it, however, it would take time.  She kept her mind focused so she wouldn't be interrupted.  Concentration was essential as it always was.

?????? waits.

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

Player Phase 14!

Aeria (Fighter) *HOT-BLOODED SURGE*
HP: 12/35
MP: 4/20
DD: 9/10
Atk: 8 --- 11
Def: 7 --- 6
Int: 2
Spr: 7 --- 6
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Violet (Gunner)
HP: 20/20
MP: 20/20
DD: 4/10
Atk: 6
Def: 3 --- 2
Int: 1
Spr: 3 --- 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Caleb (Soul Blade) *BLEEDING [4]*
HP: 6/30
MP: 1/25
DD: 6/10
Atk: 10
Def: 5 --- 4
Int: 1
Spr: 3 --- 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Kydrin (Twin Carrier) *LIGHT AFFINITY* *VICIOUS BLADE*
HP: 10/25
MP: 10/20
DD: 10/10
Atk: 6
Def: 4 --- 3
Int: 1
Spr: 2 --- 1
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Duncan (Rune Knight) *TARGET*
HP: 40/70
MP: 21/35
DD: 4/10
Atk: 10
Def: 5
Int: 6
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 3 cells

Vince (Knight Apprentice) *KO*

Marie (Knight Apprentice) *KO*

?????? (Cleric)
HP: 25/28
MP: 7/39
DD: 6/10
Atk: 7
Def: 7 --- 6
Int: 8
Spr: 10 --- 9
Evade: 5%
Move: 2 cells

{X} - Archives Entrance (cannot be occupied)

{V} - Blazing Flame (cannot be occupied by any means)

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{f} - Fence (cannot be occupied)

{c} - Coach (cannot be occupied)

Aeria attacks Duncan!  11 Dmg! (ATK)

The sting of the feathers was only made worse by the devastating combination attack that Duncan unleashed upon her which at the very least she was expecting.  Even still, it was extremely taxing and her body began to shake as she realized that she might not make it out of this alive.  She might not.  She was the shield, but she was going to break.  There was only so much that she could take.  Standing strong was the only thing that she could think to do now, lashing out at Duncan with her own sword in retaliation.  If she fell and the others were allowed to survive, that's all that mattered to her.  "C-come on, Duncan.  Don't b-be that way, heh heh...," Aeria managed to say with a slight weak laugh at the end.  "We might n-not understand, b-but the truth...we n-need the tr-truth."  She spoke it like it was fact and it was.  She was tired of watching this world decay with no one taking any action to save it.  At this rate, there would be nothing left to save.

I guess this is the end if my reflexes can't cut it, Aeria thought, keeping her muscles tense so that maybe she could dodge Duncan's blows.  If she couldn't, then she braced herself for death.  D-damn...

Aeria waits.

No more medicine, and Caleb's mana reserves were depleted, he could do nothing to ease Aeria's pain, he could only keep slashing and hope Duncan would fall before their companion.

-Kydrim, you lazy bastard, I KNOW you have something up your sleeve, now is a PERFECT time to show it!

The Soul Blade cared not to slow down, spinning his flying blade at the Rune Knight at the same time. He would not last long without his armor. He HAD to last less than Aeria. However...

Caleb attacks Duncan! 10 Dmg!(Atk)