* CONVICTION !

Going off-world was something neither he nor any other Belobogian had surely ever imagined in their lives. Yet here he was, reaching beyond the stars of his home as if it were a mere trip to the market. The Astral Express defied everything he thought possible. Again and again, it reshaped his very perception of reality. It wasn’t entirely unpleasant, though. Even with the anxieties gnawing at him, there was a giddy feeling in his chest as well.

Maybe this space station was commonplace to others now, but to him, it was entirely unfamiliar. The space felt more suited to someone like Pela or Serval, yet he could still enjoy the experience nonetheless. With the Express crew handling their own tasks, this was Gepard’s chance to do a little exploring himself. Even if it was exciting, he reminded himself not to reflect poorly on his friends. No being nosy. No going where he shouldn’t. And certainly no uncontrolled excitement. Even here, Gepard was a Silvermane Captain first.

—

After some time had passed, he began to idle near where the Express would return. There wasn’t much else to see, and admittedly, he was eager to get his feet back on familiar ground. While the trip was much needed, it was also exhausting. Gepard couldn’t help but think about the duties he was shirking with every second that passed. All good things came to an end, but perhaps he could convince Caelus to bring him back with Serval and Lynx sometime.

As he waited, a disturbance began to stir among the people gathered near the tracks. It was hard to make out without getting involved, but the argument was clearly escalating quickly. Somehow, this felt like exactly the kind of luck he always had.

Steeling himself with the presence of the commanding Captain he was, Gepard walked directly into the crowd. As he got closer, the situation began to clarify. Fingers were pointing at a new person every moment, each voice accusing someone different of stealing data. Getting to the bottom of this would take time, and time was something he wasn’t willing to waste. Still, maybe he could at least calm the growing tension until someone with actual authority took control.

“Everyone, please! Whatever your qualms may be, I ask that you calm yourselves and discuss rationally. Is a public trial really the proper channel to be investigating this theft?”

The noise faded for a moment. All eyes turned to him, watching in silence. Suddenly, Gepard wondered if he had just made a grave mistake. So much for not embarrassing the Express.

“You seem like a trustworthy individual,”one man finally said, stepping forward. “You’ve heard our problem, and you must know we won’t solve it without catching the culprit. This back-and-forth has gone nowhere. So, if you would, please help us find the thief with your fresh perspective. You look like you were on your way home, tourist, but no one is allowed to leave now. You’ll help us, won’t you?”

The man’s words shattered the stillness between Gepard and the crowd, stunning him once again. Now he was being roped into a mystery, stranded on a station he had barely even explored? It was ridiculous. Too much to process all at once.

Gepard was in a bad spot, but he had only one option if he wanted to return to Belobog quickly. He would have to help. “I appreciate… your confidence in me. I’ll do what I can to assist you, though I can’t promise I’ll be much help.” The man nodded sternly, turning back to the group and quietly muttering theories to himself.

Even though he had agreed to help, there was only so much Gepard could do alone. Everyone here was too close to the issue, too entangled in it. He would need to find a guide, someone removed from the drama.

Of course, it wasn’t like someone was just going to appear out of nowhere and offer their help. If only...

Gepard idled outside a familiar shop in the city, chest tight and muscles wound with expectation. Inside, or somewhere nearby, his sister was likely tinkering with some contraption, completely carefree. Normally, stepping through the threshold of those worn doors would elicit nothing but an eye-roll at the chaos. He would bite his tongue and withhold any remarks, knowing she had already heard them a thousand times. Instead, he would jump straight into whatever she needed him for, or whatever he needed from her.

There wasn’t much time for idle chatter between them anymore. Life had pulled them in separate directions, and they were always too busy with their own versions of adulthood. Growing older had done that, he supposed. Still, he felt confident they would always be there for each other. So confident, in fact, that he found himself hesitating outside her workshop door, even though he knew he should simply step inside. He could spill his worries to Serval, and she would surely have some interesting reply that would put him at ease.

So why was it that, with her just within arm’s reach, he could not bring himself to close the distance? Gepard no longer had time for this hesitation. He turned and backed away from the familiar building, assuring himself there would be time later.

But not paying attention in the bustling streets of Belobog was never a good idea, and Gepard was reminded of that firsthand. He backed into a passerby, the sudden collision a blur of blonde hair and shared surprise. Reaching out instinctively to steady them both, he quickly realized who he thought he had run into.

“Ah, Serval… Sorry, I was just going to see you—”

His words stalled as his eyes focused on her face. This was not his sister.

“Excuse me… I seem to have mistaken you for someone else.” He released his grip quickly now that they were both standing upright again. “I know this isn’t the best first impression, but my name is Gepard. Please forgive the mistake.”

His luck, or lack of it, was holding firm, it seemed.

Life on Amphoreus continued with a relative sense of normalcy, just as it had—and would continue to do. The market bustled with people from all walks of life, bartering for goods and wares. The baths were as lively as ever, with many citizens enjoying the comfort of the waters and each other. All of these things wove together to create the illusion of an existence without worry. Most—if not all—were oblivious enough to believe that things were normal, that beyond the protection of Kephale, the world was not falling under the weight of disaster.

Those beneath them would never know just what the Chrysos Heirs were sacrificing to protect this haven amidst the darkness. Of course, that was Aglaea's wish—much to Gepard's dismay. If the people were made aware of the things they could not see, even if painful, they would have no choice but to rally behind them. No matter what she said, no matter what reasons she gave, Gepard could not believe the people were so fragile. The truth, however painful, was the only way for true justice to prosper for all.

That being said, he turned away from the ledge of their private baths, having had enough of the view. Instead, it was time to confront the woman who consumed his thoughts—loyalty and doubt in equal measure. She seemed calm, no different from how she always appeared, but he'd known her long enough... Her golden threads were already wrapped tightly around his heart, surely drawing out all his secrets as they lingered in silence together.

Standing at the edge of the water she idled in, Gepard cleared his throat to draw her attention. Even if she already knew, even if she didn’t want to speak of it again, he would give her no choice.

“Lady Aglaea… I apologize for the timing, but you know why I’m here.” His voice was calm, low enough not to disturb the peace of this sacred space reserved for those of golden blood. “I have to ask you again… What is the point of letting this woman poison the very people we fight to protect against us? What do we gain?”

Why must you play the villain…

Thank you everyone for the overwhelming positive welcome! I'm a bit behind trying to familiarize myself with the inner workings here in Gnostic Hymns, but I'm here now. Please let me know if I make any mistakes as I go!

WE GOTTA RESCUE HANU! - Full disclosure here, Gepard has never been to Penacony. He's going to need a reliable guide to show him around as his mind is quite literally being shattered. Maybe somewhere along that tour, they may run into a tv in an alley, with a very cool character missing from it's screen? What does it all mean, hopefully you can teach Gepard a bit as you two go along. DISCLAIMER- This is just a general idea that I have for the plot, I don't mind switching it up for muses who also aren't familiar with Penacony. Ideally, though, I'm seeking a muse who knows their way around. ICE IN THE DARK DOESN'T GLISTEN - You can't deny that it wouldn't hurt to bring someone like Gepard around for exploration. It's dark, it might be cold, but at least you've got a very large meat shield. I can't say Gepard would love the idea of risking his biscuits out here, but if he was asked ever so nicely, he would likely relent. At least he might find a new plant or two to take home for Pela... If he isn't too busy babysitting, of course. SIMULATED MYSTERY UNIVERSE - Gepard really isn't the kind of guy to go around with a monocle scoping out mysteries. It's not that he's dumb, but it's not something he finds interest in. Digging into people and snooping where he feels he shouldn't... These things are better left to others. Alas, his trip to the Herta Space Station is riddled with pointed figures and the seeds of doubt. Someone please help him figure this out so he can have the Express take him back home at once.

She scoffed at the shade’s second wind, a lock of hair falling out of place and over her nose. Silver Wolf wanted to go home. Thinking back on it, the raid she was supposed to do tonight would have to be postponed. She might not even have time for her dailies, depending on just how long they’ve been stuck in this place. Tactical brilliance? How about tactically exiting the stage and brilliantly curling up in some warm sheets…

The way their foe stared them down said the answer was no. She shrugged. No use fighting it anymore. 

Silver Wolf: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: System Warning on The Honored 42/50HP [Roll: 1d20+4 = 13, Hit! -3.5HP, The Honored 38.5/50HP] [Roll: 1d2 = 1, The Honored is inflicted with Entanglement] Silver Wolf: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: System Warning on The Honored 38.5/50HP [Roll: 1d20+4 = 20, Crit! -6HP, The Honored 32.5/50HP] [Roll: 1d2 = 1, 1d3 = 3, The Honored is inflicted with Speed Bug for two rounds] [Roll: 1d3 = 1, The Honored is inflicted with Hydro] Silver Wolf: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: System Warning on The Honored 32.5/50HP [Roll: 1d20+4 = 20, Crit! -6HP, The Honored 26.5/50HP] [Roll: 1d2 = 1, 1d3 = 1, The Honored is inflicted with Attack Bug for two rounds]

This time, one of the totems was the target for her attack. She whizzed past her frontline to lob shell after shell of aquatic destruction. The leftover puddles inhibited action and stopped the thing in its tracks, but… It was just a totem? It didn’t need to move. A bunch of mud swamping it didn’t actually do anything useful for the team…

“Hmm… Anyone got any special moves they aren’t using right now? If you’ve got cooldowns, might as well use ‘em.” 

“...These enemies are about to get real irritating.” 

"Irritating is correct... I'll leave that one to you. I'll take the spear-looking one."

Gepard Landau rolls 3 Energy!

It had been one of the few enemies to attack first—reason enough for Gepard to keep it occupied. If anything else hit Venti now… he wasn’t sure the bard could withstand it.

The board in his grip, absurd as it was, still mirrored the mechanics of Earthwork. Maybe it was all an illusion—but the power was real. With enough focus, he could still freeze his targets. Venti was relying on him.

[-3 Energy] Gepard Landau: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Elemental Burst: Daunting Smite on Speartip A [-4HP, Speartip A 44.5/50HP] [Roll: 1d2 = 1, Speartip A is Frozen!]

He charged forward. The totem stalled in place—then locked in place, frost creeping up its form. Confirming his work, Gepard glanced back.

"Try to hang in there, Venti… And don’t be afraid to stay behind me."

To demonstrate, she dialed down the splash-size on one of her blasters and sprayed him. A water fight was par for the course for these things. Even if she didn’t seem particularly enthused to be doing so, she was crossing off a box on their list.

Silver Wolf: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: System Warning on Shadow of Argenti 37.5/275HP [Roll: 1d20+4 = 17, Hit! -4.5HP, Shadow of Argenti 33/275HP] [Roll: 1d2 = 1, Shadow of Argenti is inflicted with Entanglement] Counterattack: Shadow of Argenti 33/275HP uses Normal Attack: Piety on Silver Wolf 10/10HP 5/5SP [Roll: 1d20-2 = 0, Miss! -0HP, Silver Wolf 10/10HP 5/5SP] (Ignite Trauma activates) Shadow of Argenti takes 1 damage: Shadow of Argenti 32/275HP Silver Wolf: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: System Warning on Shadow of Argenti 32/275HP [Roll: 1d20+4 = 20, Crit! -6HP, Shadow of Argenti 26/275HP] [Rolls: 1d2 = 1, 1d3 = 3 Shadow of Argenti is inflicted with Speed Bug for two rounds] Counterattack: Shadow of Argenti 26/275HP uses Normal Attack: Piety on Silver Wolf 10/10HP 5/5SP [Roll: 1d20-2 = 1, Miss! -0HP, Silver Wolf 10/10HP 5/5SP] (Ignite Trauma activates) Shadow of Argenti takes 1 damage: Shadow of Argenti 25/275HP Silver Wolf: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: System Warning on Shadow of Argenti 25/275HP [Roll: 1d20+4 = 7, Hit! -4.5HP, Shadow of Argenti 20.5/275HP] [Roll: 1d3 = 1, Shadow of Argenti is inflicted with Hydro] Counterattack: Shadow of Argenti 20.5/275HP uses Normal Attack: Piety on Silver Wolf 10/10HP 5/5SP [Roll: 1d20-2 = 1, Hit! -0HP, Silver Wolf 10/10HP 5/5SP] Silver Wolf loses a stack of Barrier! (Ignite Trauma activates) Shadow of Argenti takes 1 damage: Shadow of Argenti 19.5/275HP Silver Wolf: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: System Warning on Shadow of Argenti 19.5/275HP [Roll: 1d20+4 = 12, Hit! -4.5HP, Shadow of Argenti 15/275HP] [Rolls: 1d2 = 1, 1d3 = 3 Shadow of Argenti is inflicted with Speed Bug for two rounds] Counterattack: Shadow of Argenti 15/275HP uses Normal Attack: Piety on Silver Wolf 10/10HP 5/5SP [Roll: 1d20-2 = 11, Hit! -1.5HP, Silver Wolf 10/10HP 3.5/5SP] (Knight’s Vow activates)  Shadow of Argenti takes half total damage inflicted (-1.5/2 - 1 = -1.5 HP): Shadow of Argenti 13.5/275HP Follow-Up Attack by Artemis’s Guardian: Siegfried Kaslana 10/10HP 5/5SP hits with Artemis’ Guardian [Roll: 1d20+2 = 19, Critical Hit! -4 x 1.5 = -6HP, - 2 Artifact, - 4 Weapon, -2 Knights Vow, -1 Defense Bug = -15HP, Shadow of Argenti 0/275HP] Shadow of Argenti has been defeated!

She then spun on her heel, and reengaged to tick off a few more. One after the other, her weapons flared to life with the spirit of summer and rapidly unloaded into the shadow. This time they weren’t akin to shotgun blasts, but tighter-packed globs of water resembling slugs. Each had a denting impact against its armor. The barrage didn’t let up until the smirking Silver Wolf saw that her foe was on the ropes, and even then she only let up briefly. To assess the damage. To examine the work. To see if its stony face would make any sort of expression. But it didn’t, and so she fired the final shot. It hit square in the eyes and sent them tumbling to the ground. 

“It was probably best to save our biggest shot for last. Now let’s all scram before we find out this thing has a second phase-” 

A beach day wasn’t exactly something Gepard had ever heard of before, but he nodded along anyway. Whatever this ‘trend’ was, it hadn’t reached the restricted zone. "...if you say so.” It seemed harmless enough, even if the culture was completely alien to him. A real beach day? Maybe, when this was over. If the Express was willing. “I’ll just have to take your word for it.”

For a second, he let himself drift. The idea of leaving home for any amount of time sat heavy in his chest. Was this beach day worth it?

A sudden splash snapped him back.

The impact landed square between his eyes, blooming across his face in a spray of water. He blinked once, slowly, and dragged a hand across his eyes. “Tactical brilliance as always, Silverwolf…”

There wasn’t time to respond—she was already back at work, dousing their enemy in another wave of watery chaos. The shadow reeled, staggered, and dropped to its knees. Silverwolf was already celebrating his victory.

Too soon.

The shadow rose again—renewed, as every nightmare in this place seemed to do. Around it, the others returned too, dragged back from the damned, gleaming with vengeance.

They were eager and ready to go.

Shadow of Argenti moves to Phase 2

Totems blazed to life, casting hell with twice the fury. Their barrage rained down without pause, forcing the team onto the defensive. There was no space to strike back. By the time the flurry eased, they were battered. 

But Gepard didn’t hesitate.

Gepard Landau rolled 4 Energy!

“There’s no rest for the weary, is there?” he muttered, rising through the ache in his limbs. “We’ll just have to put you back down.”

He surged forward—no dramatic windup, just decisive violence. The board cracked against the shadow, a sound resounding out into the nothing. Before the thing had even gotten a good hit, he turned and slammed the edge of the board across the it’s face.

Cold followed. As it always did.

Gepard Landau rolls 4 Energy [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau 10/10HP 3.5/5SP uses Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction on Shadow of Argenti 300/300HP [Roll: 1d20+5 = 12, Hit! -2HP, -1 Serpent Spine, -3HP, Nullified by Barrier! Shadow of Argenti 300/300HP] Shadow of Argenti loses Barrier! Shadow of Argenti counterattacks with Normal Attack: Piety against Gepard Landau 10/10HP 3.5/5SP [Roll: 1d20 = 9, Hit! -4HP, -2 Artifact Reduction, -0.5 Passive Reduction, -1.5HP, Gepard Landau 10/10HP 2/5SP] (Knight’s Vow activates)  Shadow of Argenti takes half total damage inflicted[ 1.5 / 2 = -0.5HP, Shadow of Argenti 299.5/300HP] [-3 Energy] Gepard Landau 10/10HP 2/5SP uses Elemental Skill: Daunting Smite on Shadow of Argenti 299.5/300HP [-4HP, Shadow of Argenti 295.5/300HP][1d5 = 1, Freeze! Shadow of Argenti 295.5/300HP is Frozen]

It wouldn’t last, but it would buy time—enough for his team to breathe, to stand, to be ready when the next storm broke.

It'd probably be a good idea for Venti to focus their efforts on taking down the other pillar next to him, then.

Venti rolls 5 energy!

Why not match Silver Wolf's rapid fire? he thought; and shot a multitude of arrows in quick succession.

[-1 Energy] Venti (10/10HP 5/5SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship on The Honored (31/50 HP) [Roll: 1d20+2 = 7, Hit! -1.5, The Honored (29.5/50 HP)] [-1 Energy] Venti (10/10HP 5/5SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship on The Honored (29.5/50 HP) [Roll: 1d20+2 = 4, Hit! -1.5, The Honored (28/50 HP)] [-1 Energy] Venti (10/10HP 5/5SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship on The Honored (28/50 HP) [Roll: 1d20+2 = 16, Critical Hit! -3, The Honored (25/50 HP)] Venti restores 1 Energy [-1 Energy] Venti (10/10HP 5/5SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship on The Honored (25/50 HP) [Roll: 1d20+2 = 20, Critical Hit! -3, The Honored (22/50 HP)] [-1 Energy] Venti (10/10HP 5/5SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship on The Honored (22/50 HP) [Roll: 1d20+2 = 18, Critical Hit! -3, The Honored (19/50 HP)] [-1 Energy] Venti (10/10HP 5/5SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship on The Honored 22/50HP [Roll: 1d20+2 = 15, Hit! -1.5, The Honored (17.5/50 HP)]

Whew, he hadn't done something like that in a while. The floating rose looked battered, but not gone yet. Maybe another round would do it in.

"That rose sure did make a great pincushion. Now, to you, Gepard!"

"A summer unit..? I'm a bit confused..." Silver Wolf had been spouting nonsense for a while now, most of which he'd been able to ignore. But now she was speaking directly to him—and in solidarity no less. Like him, she wore some sort of bizarre outfit, oddly matching his in both style and absurdity.

"You're also looking... very summer unit?" Even he cringed at that.

"Ahem." Gepard cleared his throat sharply, trying to bury the moment. "Anyway. I’ll take it from here, Venti."

Gepard Landau rolls 5 Energy

He glanced at the water gun in Silver Wolf’s hand. “Whatever this is”—his tone accusatory—“was clearly by design.”

He raised the board in his hand, mimicking the posture he would take with Earthwork. It felt all wrong. Light. Unbalanced. "It'll have to do," he muttered, almost to himself. "I'll be counting on your water contraption, Silver Wolf."

[-1 Energy] Gepard Landau: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction on Shadow of Argenti 166/275HP [Roll: 1d20+5 = 18, Hit! -2, -4 Serpent’s Spine, -1 Defense Bug, Shadow of Argenti 159/275] [Roll: 1d4 = 1, Freeze! Shadow of Argenti has been Frozen.] [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction on Shadow of Argenti 159/275HP [Roll: 1d20+5 = 6, Hit! -2, -4 Serpent’s Spine, -1 Defense Bug, Shadow of Argenti 152/275] [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction on Shadow of Argenti 152/275HP [Roll: 1d20+5 = 8, Hit! -2, -4 Serpent’s Spine, -1 Defense Bug Shadow of Argenti 145/275] [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction on Shadow of Argenti 145/275HP [Roll: 1d20+5 = 6, Hit! -2, -4 Serpent’s Spine, -1 Defense Bug Shadow of Argenti 138/275] [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau: 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction on Shadow of Argenti 138/275HP[Roll: 1d20+5 = 8, Hit! -2, -4 Serpent’s Spine, -1 Defense Bug Shadow of Argenti 131/275]

The sandals on his feet made it difficult to keep solid footing—slick soles skidding slightly with each shift in stance. The board was too small to shield with, too awkward to pair with his fists. And without his gauntlets, each punch rattled through bare knuckles that weren’t used to this kind of punishment.

Shaking the sting from his hand, he grumbled, “Looks like it’s the ice bath for you.”

Whatever the theme of this place was, it was lost on him. And deeply irritating. He didn’t feel particularly stylish. Or cool. Or anything remotely ready for combat. What a hassle…

He grumbled, humbled by the world. "Continue as you will."

Nope, he decided. That isn't Diluc. Diluc's not that pretty. Sorry, Diluc!

Venti rolls 4 Energy!

Eyeing the floating rose and shield next to the not-Diluc man, he summoned the winds to create a stormeye. He had noticed that during their previous battle the pull of the winds had grown stronger, but as he aimed his arrow, he now felt their full force swirling around them. This domain... was it limiting their power?

Now that he could use his ability at full power, there was no time like the present - "Time for takeoff!"

[-3 Energy] Venti (10/10 HP 5/5 SP) uses Elemental Burst: Wind’s Grand Ode [Lv. 10] on all enemies [1 + 5 + 4 (Magnificent Tsuba) = 10 Anemo damage to all enemies, Pyro Swirl and Defense Bug procs on Shadow of Argenti]: Shadow of Argenti (210/275 HP); The Honored (37/50 HP); The Shield (37/50 HP) Absorbs Pyro and deals 10/2 = 5 Pyro damage to all enemies (Shadow of Argenti takes 5 *1.5 (Pyro Swirl) + 1 (Defense Bug) = 8.5 Pyro damage): Shadow of Argenti (201.5/275 HP); The Honored (32/50 HP); The Shield (32/50 HP)

Their enemy became obscured by a blur of red-hued wind as the stormgale absorbed the Pyro energy conferred by Siegfried. A great setup once again, he thought, glancing at the Cryo-imbued knight at his side. The four of them certainly worked well together - maybe he would try to seek them out in the waking world to have some sort of "I Survived An Abyssal Domain" after-party. He could bring some nice wine, too - surely they were all of drinking age!

Thoughts of wine brought him to thinking of Diluc, and abruptly brought him back to the present. Ah, right. They were fighting not-Diluc.

[-1 Energy] Venti (10/10 HP 5/5 SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship [Lv. 5] on Shadow of Argenti [Roll: 1d20+2 = 10, Hit! -1.5 - 1 (Defense Bug) = -2.5HP, Shadow of Argenti (199/275 HP)] Counterattack: Shadow of Argenti (199/275 HP) uses Normal Attack: Piety on Venti (10/10 HP 5/5 SP) [Roll: 1d20 - 2 = 4, Miss! -0HP, Venti (10/10 HP 5/5 SP)]

An arrow broke through the winds and struck the man in the chest, and as he swung his lance in retaliation, the image of the man froze for a moment, allowing Venti to duck under the swing. Strange. He snuck a glance at Silver Wolf, inexplicably now clad in beachwear. Had she lent him a hand again?

"I almost turned into a kebab there! Many thanks!" he said, hoping his intuition was correct. "Now, my friend," he continued, turning to Gepard, "the stage is yours!"

A shift in space-time, just as disorienting and nauseating as the last—washed over him like a crashing wave. One moment, they were facing crumbling statues of soldiers. The next, he stood face-to-face with the vague silhouette of a man. No amount of squinting revealed the stranger’s features, but truthfully, it mattered little. Whoever this was, he would be their next opponent.

There was no time for pleasantries.

Gepard reached instinctively for the familiar weight of Earthwork—only to find it missing. In its place was something... flatter. Lighter. Decorated with bones.

His shield was gone. And it wasn’t the only thing.

His armor had vanished, replaced by a buttoned-up neon red shirt stamped with a floral pattern. Khakis clung to his legs, and open-toed sandals with socks strapped to his feet. A quick pat atop his head confirmed a pair of sunglasses resting there. “What the hell...?”

This place warped everything—positions, enemies, even bodies. Now it was mocking them with costumes?

His jaw tightened, breath steady. “This is incredibly embarrassing... Let’s finish this quickly and move to the next place.”

Gepard Landau rolls 5 Energy

He tested the board with a few practice swings—awkward at first, but workable. It was time for the real thing now.

[-3 Energy] Gepard Landau 10/10HP 5/5SP uses Elemental Skill: Daunting Smite [Lv. 7] on Shadow of Argenti 186/275HP  -4 -1 = -5HP, Shadow of Argenti 181/275HP [Roll: 1, Shadow of Argenti 181/275HP has been Frozen] [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau 10/10HP 5/5SP hits Shadow of Argenti 181/275HP with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction  [Roll: 1+5 = 6, -2 + -4 + -1 = -6HP, Shadow of Argenti 175/275HP] [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau 10/10HP 5/5SP hits Shadow of Argenti 175/275HP with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction  [Roll: 1+5 = 6, -2 + -4 + -1 = -6HP, Shadow of Argenti 169/275HP] 

Each strike landed with surprising weight, and his fists followed with sharp, decisive blows. The weapon was ridiculous, but his strength remained unaltered. That was enough.

He exhaled slowly, eyes locked on the frozen silhouette ahead. “Our opponent seems to have caught a cold,” he mused, steadying his stance. “Looks like a job for you, Mister Kaslana.”

Venti rolls 3 energy!

At Siegfried's request, he aims his bow towards the singer, who had likely been quietly aiding its allies with its power. Without support, the rest of their enemies should come crashing down!

"There's only room for one singer on this stage, you know," he quips at his enemy. "I wasn't voted 'Most Popular Bard of Mondstadt' three times for nothing!"

[-1 Energy] Venti (7/10 HP 2/2 SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship on FURIAE TROUPE 23/60 HP [Roll 1d20 = 17, CRIT! -3 - 2 (War Armor reduction) = -1 HP, 1 energy refunded]: FURIAE TROUPE (22/60 HP) FURIAE TROUPE (22/60 HP) lost all War Armor, exits War Song, takes -12 Damage: FURIAE TROUPE (10/60 HP)

At last, the arrow struck true, and the enemy reeled back, looking much closer to defeat. Clearly displeased by his actions, it sent a wave of humming power back at him.

FURIAE TROUPE (22/60 HP) counterattacks with Normal Attack: Into the Supple Fire [Roll 1d20 = 7, -2.5 HP]: Venti (6.5/10 HP), all allies take 1 damage

He felt the wave pass through him with a shudder, but he was still standing - and more importantly, still able to play his song. As he raised his lyre in retaliation, he saw the curved arc of Siegfried's sword slam into the singer, who crumpled to the floor.

Well. Now that the enemy's support was gone, Venti turned his gaze to one of the lackeys.

[-2 Energy] Venti (6.5/10 HP) uses Elemental Skill: Skyward Sonnet [Lv. 5] on FURIAE WARRIOR B (43/50 HP), -2 HP: FURIAE WARRIOR B (41/50 HP) FURIAE WARRIOR B loses 1 stack of War Armor, takes damage = 20% of max HP (-10 HP):  FURIAE WARRIOR B (31/50 HP) [-1 Energy] Venti (6.5/10 HP 2/2 SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship on FURIAE WARRIOR B (31/50 HP) [Roll 1d20 = 17, CRIT! -3 HP]: FURIAE WARRIOR B (28/50 HP)

With the winds encasing the enemy in a cage of Anemo, it was easy enough to hit it head-on - once again, a perfect setup for their favorite Cryo knight, Gepard!

They carried a scrappy confidence—the kind that reminded Gepard of a certain girl from the Underworld. Normally, he might have called it foolhardy to puff your chest at enemies yet undefeated, but perhaps their japes were infectious. A rare, contained smile flickered across his face.

“Did you also take home an award for creative aim, Venti?” he quipped wryly.

Their teamwork was paying off now. Each newly discovered synergy brought another monster to its knees. It felt like Siegfried could make a rusty knife cut deep with the right preparation… not that Gepard was complaining. With Silverwolf returned to them, their formation was complete once more—peak performance restored. It was time to clean up.

Gepard Landau rolls 3 Energy!

A rhythm began to form. Any enemy unfortunate enough to be caught in Venti’s winds would find itself met with Gepard’s crushing blows. That practiced precision made each strike count, turning the immobilized statue into shattered stone.

[-1 Energy] Gepard Landau (9/13 HP 1/2 SP) hits FURIAE WARRIOR B (28/50 HP) with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Roll: 12, -2.5, [Cryo-Swirl]! X1.5, -3.5] FURIAE WARRIOR B (24.5/50 HP) FURIAE WARRIOR B (24.5/50 HP) IS STRUGGLED, NO COUNTERS [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau (9/13 HP 1/2 SP) hits FURIAE WARRIOR B (24.5/50 HP) with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Roll: 5 (STRUGGLED), -2.5, [Cryo-Swirl]! X1.5, -3.5] FURIAE WARRIOR B (21/50 HP) FURIAE WARRIOR B (21/50 HP) IS STRUGGLED, NO COUNTERS [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau (9/13 HP 1/2 SP) hits FURIAE WARRIOR B (21/50 HP) with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Roll: 12, -2.5, [Cryo-Swirl]! X1.5, -3.5] FURIAE WARRIOR B (17.5/50 HP)FURIAE WARRIOR B (17.5/50 HP) IS STRUGGLED, NO COUNTERS

“Should all go accordingly,” Gepard said stoicly, “I dare say we’ll win this encounter.”

Still, he hoped their reward was more than survival. A way out of this place—anything to return them home. The thought stirred worries he’d tried to suppress. Was Serval behaving? Was Bronya holding the city together without him?

But now wasn’t the time for wayward thoughts.

He turned to the veteran beside him. “It’s you and me now, Mister Kaslana. We’ll form a formidable shield.”

FURIAE WARRIOR A 21/50 HP is taunted by Gepard Landau (9/13 HP 1/2 SP) FURIAE WARRIOR A 21/50 HP CRITICALLY HITS  Gepard Landau (9/13 HP 1/2 SP) with Normal Attack: Collision of the Third Orbit [Rolls: 17, -5HP, GEPARD RESISTS 1.5 DMG; 3.5HP] Gepard Landau (6.5/13 HP 0/2 SP)KNIGHT’S VOW activates, [-2.5HP, War Armor resists 2DMG, -.5]  Pyro damage against FURIAE WARRIOR A 20.5/50 HP FURIAE WARRIOR A 20.5/50 HP loses 1 War Armor Stack KNIGHT’S VOW procs, Siegfried Kaslana: 10/10HP / 2/2SP CRITICALLY HITS with Artemis’ Guardian, [Rolls: 19+2, 21. -4HP, Passive! +1, Allies under Knights vow! +2, Artifact! +1, +2 Proselytize, -10HP, WAR ARMOR REDUCTION: 2; -8HP] FURIAE WARRIOR A 12.5/50 HP FURIAE WARRIOR A 12.5/50 HP loses 1 War Armor Stack Gepard Landau (6.5/13 HP 0/2 SP) MISSES the counter [Rolls, 4]

Once again the enemy charged. Once again, their sights were locked on him and Siegfried. Predictable. Useful.

“On my mark!” Gepard barked, bracing Earthwork against his frame. The impact came harder than any before. The sheer force rattled through his bones—if he hadn’t been prepared, it would’ve knocked him clear off his feet. But he stood.

“Now!” he shouted.

Siegfried lunged forward with blade in hand. Gepard followed fast behind—strike after strike—before dropping back into position. Braced, and ready for the next attacker.

Venti rolls 4 energy!

Again, at his signal, the winds rushed towards their opponents and enveloped them all in a stormeye.

[-3 Energy] Venti (7/10 HP 2/2 SP) uses Elemental Burst: Wind’s Grand Ode [Lv. 5] on all enemies FURIAE PRAETOR (4.5/90 HP) loses 1 War Armor stack, -2 HP: FURIAE PRAETOR (2.5/90 HP) FURIAE TROUPE (45/60 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack, inflicts [Struggle], -2 HP: FURIAE TROUPE (43/50 HP) FURIAE WARRIOR A (49.5/50 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack, inflicts [Struggle], -2 HP: FURIAE WARRIOR A (47.5/50 HP) FURIAE WARRIOR B (50/50 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack, inflicts [Struggle], -2 HP: FURIAE WARRIOR B (48/50 HP)

He nocked an arrow, pointing its tip at the big guy. This time, he would not miss.

[-1 Energy] Venti (7/10 HP 2/2 SP) misses FURIAE PRAETOR (2.5/90 HP) with Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship [Rolls 1d20 = 2]

...Third time's the charm?

Regardless, this created an opening for Gepard. Hopefully, he'd be able to finish off the big guy before it did anything really bad.

"Go get 'em, Gepard!"

Gepard Landau rolls 5 Energy!

Their performance now made their clash with the three mages feel like mere child’s play. Gepard couldn’t help but wonder—had they regained a fragment of their true strength in that strange transition between? Or had desperation itself ignited something deeper in them all?

Regardless of the reason, they stood at an advantage now, and Gepard would see it through. Silverwolf was down. That meant he would have to fight twice as hard, bear twice the weight. “Thank you for your support, Venti,” he said, voice firm but tired. “Rest your bow arm. I’ll hold the line.”

[-3 Energy] Gepard Landau (10.5/13HP 2/2 SP) uses Elemental Burst: Daunting Smite [Lv. 5] on Furiae Praetor (2.5/90 HP, 4 War Armor) [Roll: 1, -3, CRYO SWIRL x1.5 4.5, -2 Polis Protector = -2.5]

The largest titan was faltering, its stone limbs struggling under the pressure of their combined assault. Gepard saw his opening. One clean strike with Earthwork would bring the colossus to its knees. He raised the shield high above his head—its weight no longer a burden, but a promise—and brought it down in a sweeping arc of frost and fury.

Ice gripped the titan in an instant, creeping over its limbs, into its core. Then, with a sound like a mountain crumbling, it shattered—reduced to frozen rubble at his feet, but he couldn't rest yet.

Furiae Praetor has been defeated

His eyes locked onto their final target—the one still trapped in Venti’s whirlwind. It twisted helplessly in the gale, exposed and vulnerable.

[-1 Energy] Gepard Landau (10.5/13 HP 2/2 SP) hits Furiae Troupe (45/60 HP, 2 War Armor) with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Roll: 9, -2.5, Swirl x1.5, -2 Polis Protector = -1.5] Furiae Troupe loses 1 War Armor stack [-1 Energy] Gepard Landau (10.5/13 HP 2/2 SP) hits Furiae Troupe (43.5/60 HP, 1 War Armor) with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Roll: 20, -5, Swirl x1.5, -2 Polis Protector = -5.5]Furiae Troupe (38/60 HP) loses Polis Protection [ -12HP]

Gepard surged forward, slamming into it with measured, merciless blows. Two strikes pierced through its plated shell, and though the beast still stood, its protection was ruined. Siegfried would have it’s life in the back half regardless.

The worst of it seemed past. The lesser warriors were all that remained now, and though they fought with fury, they were nothing compared to their boss that had come before.

 Furiae Warrior A (47.5/50HP, 2 War Armor) is taunted by Gepard Landau (10.5/13 HP 2/2SP) Furiae Warrior A (47.5/50 HP, 2 War Armor) Critically hits Gepard Landau with Collision of the Third Orbit [Roll: 18, -5]  [GEPARD RESISTS 1.5; -3.5HP] Gepard Landau: 9/13HP 0/0SP KNIGHT’S VOW activates, PYRO SWIRL! [-2.5 x 1.5 = -3.5HP, WAR ARMOR REDUCTION -2; -1.5HP] Pyro damage against Furiae Warrior A (46/50 HP) Furiae Warrior A loses 1 War Armor stack KNIGHT’S VOW procs, Siegfried Kaslana: 10/10HP / 2/2SP HITS with Artemis’ Guardian, [Rolls: 13+2, 15. -2HP, Passive! +1, Allies under Knights vow! +3, Artifact! +1, +2 Proz -9HP! PYRO SWIRLED! X1.5: -13.5HP, WAR ARMOR DAMAGE REDUCTION -2: -11.5 ] Furiae Warrior A (34.5/50 HP) Furiae Warrior A (34.5/50 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack, takes 20% MAX HP as damage! -10HP, Furiae Warrior A (24.5/50 HP)  Gepard Landau counters Furiae Warrior A with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Roll: 13, -2.5, x1.5 MELT -3.5] Furiae Warrior A (21/50 HP)

Only one of them advanced toward him. Gepard moved to intercept, but another peeled off toward his team. He was too far—he couldn’t shield them both.

His eyes flicked briefly to Silverwolf’s prone form. They would protect her, he knew that they would. “Right then,” he muttered, bracing Earthwork, “give me everything you’ve got.”

The warrior’s blade came crashing down with no hesitation, and Gepard caught it mid-swing. The impact roared through his body, rattling his bones and nearly sending him to the floor. But he held. He held.

He was still standing. So were they.

“Mister Kaslana,” he groaned out, reeling from the shock, “your turn.”

Well, he had enough on his plate to worry about for now. The big guy had summoned two lackeys for them to fight as well. Venti glanced to the side; Gepard, their trusty fighter, was now encased in glowing yellow bonds.

"Wow, we've really attracted an audience..." He sighed. "Yeah, I don't think they're quite enjoying the performance. Sucks for them - it'll be over before they know it!"

Venti rolls 3 energy!

Out his trusty lyre went again, this time playing a more elegant tune. Maybe they'd like this one better.

[-2 Energy] Venti (10/10HP 2/2SP) uses Elemental Skill: Skyward Sonnet [Lv. 5] on Furiae Praetor (82/90 HP) (-4HP - 2 (War Armor reduction) = -2HP): Furiae Praetor (80/90 HP) Furiae Praetor (80/90 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack.

The Anemo energy agitated the kindling at the praetor's feet; hopefully, Siegfried could make short work of this foe. But just in case, Venti aimed another arrow -

[-1 Energy] Venti (10/10HP 2/2SP) misses Furiae Praetor (80/90 HP) with Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship [Rolls 1d20 = 1]

—and completely missed.

"Ah, well," Venti said. "Surely they at least enjoyed my song?"

FURIAE WARRIOR B (50/50 HP) is NOT taunted by Gepard FURIAE WARRIOR B (50/50 HP) CRITICALLY hits Venti (10/10HP 2/2SP) with Normal Attack: Collision of the Third Orbit [Roll 1d20 = 20; -5HP]: Venti (7/10HP 0/2SP) inflicted with Reverberation

 Gepard Landau: 13/13HP 2/2SP is Imprisoned, CANNOT MOVE

Gepard hadn’t noticed it at first—whatever they’d afflicted him with in that last assault—but when it struck, it struck hard. This wasn’t the familiar bite of a freeze. No, it was something stronger, fiercer, coiling around him like vines made of steel. His vision blurred. His ears rang. Within that suffocating cocoon, there was nothing but the dull thrum of his own failing body.

Outside, the battle still raged. He could feel it in the tremors beneath his boots, in the phantom echo of distant war cries. He didn’t have the luxury to sit this one out.

Furiae Praetor (80/90 HP) is TAUNTED by Gepard Landau: 13/13HP 2/2SP for 2 of the 3 hits of Normal Attack: From Dawn to Skyveil Furiae Praetor (80/90 HP) hits Gepard Landau: 13/13HP 2/2SP [Rolls: 12, -3HP, ATTACK BUG! -1DMG, -2, GEPARD RESISTS 1.5; -0.5HP] Gepard Landau: 13/13HP 1.5/2SP KNIGHT’S VOW activates, PYRO SWIRL! [1 +5(PYRO WEAKNESS)=6.5, PYRO SWIRLED! X1.5 = -9HP, WAR ARMOR REDUCTION -2; -7HP] Pyro damage against Furiae Praetor (80/90 HP) Furiae Praetor (73/90 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack KNIGHT’S VOW procs, Siegfried Kaslana: 10/10HP / 2/2SP HITS with Artemis’ Guardian, [Rolls: 8+2, 10. -2HP, Proselytize! +2 Passive! +1, Allies under Knights vow! +4, Artefact! +1, Pyro Weakness+5 -15HP! PYRO SWIRLED! X1.5: -22.5HP, WAR ARMOR DAMAGE REDUCTION -2: -20.5 ] Furiae Praetor (53.5/90 HP) Furiae Praetor (53.5/90 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack, takes 20% MAX HP as damage! -18HP, Furiae Praetor (35.5/90 HP) Furiae Praetor (35.5/90 HP) hits Gepard Landau: 13/13HP 1.5/2SP [Rolls: 6, -3HP, ATTACK BUG! -1DMG, -2, GEPARD RESISTS 1.5; -0.5HP] Gepard Landau: 13/13HP 1.0/2SP KNIGHT’S VOW activates [1 +5(PYRO WEAKNESS)=6, PYRO SWIRLED! X1.5 = -9HP] Pyro damage against Furiae Praetor (26.5/90 HP) KNIGHT’S VOW procs, Siegfried Kaslana: 10/10HP / 2/2SP HITS with Artemis’ Guardian, [Rolls 13+2: 15. -2HP, Proselytize! +2 Passive! +1, Allies under Knights vow! +4, Artefact! +1, Pyro Weakness+5 -15HP! PYRO SWIRLED! X1.5: -22.5HP] Furiae Praetor (4.5/90 HP)

Even dulled, pain knew how to find him. It always did. That sharp, crawling ache seeped through every fracture in his memory, and now, too, in his bones. But this time, he couldn't even cry out—couldn’t wince, couldn’t curse out. It was all muffled. All muted. And so, he endured in silence.

Then—impact. A jolt rocked through him, the strike grounding itself in his chest. The prison around him shattered, the suffocating silence breaking open into a cacophony of sound and sensation. The world rushed back in a surge: shouting, steel, flames. Even the stale tang of battlefield air burned its way back into his lungs.

Siegfried was already there, pressing the advantage. Of course he was. Good man.

FURIAE WARRIOR A 50/50 HP is NOT taunted FURIAE WARRIOR A 50/50 HP CRITICALLY hits Gepard Landau: 13/13HP 1/2SP with Normal Attack: Collision of the Third Orbit [Roll: 19; -5HP, GEPARD RESISTS 1.5 DMG; -3.5HP] Gepard Landau: 10.5/13HP 0/2SP, inflicted with ReverberationGepard Landau:10.5/13HP 0/2SP counters with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Rolls: 15+2; 17. -2.5hp, WAR ARMOR RESISTS 2 DMG; -0.5) FURIAE WARRIOR A 49.5/50 HP FURIAE WARRIOR A 49.5/50 HP loses 1 War Armor Stack

No time to gather himself. No time to question. A towering blow came down from above, and Gepard met it with Earthwork raised high, catching the strike in a clash of force.

And then, his retaliation—precise, but overall ineffective... They'd need to chip that armor again if they wanted a change at victory.

Now, with seconds stolen back from chaos, he scanned the field. The cursed energy had taken root around Silverwolf, almost burying her beneath its weight. Her neon gear was all but swallowed in its haze. Venti looked winded, but composure still strong. Siegfried—he remained the iron he’d always seemed to be.

At least they were all still standing.

Gepard narrowed his gaze, voice low, unwavering. “Hang tight, Silverwolf. We’re coming.”

“Of course I’m back. Did you really think I would’ve come here without any extra lives?” 

She sized up her targets. While new to her, nothing about them was outside the realm of imagination. She watched intently–hand on her hip–for any signs of weakness or fault, any chinks in their armor for her to exploit. Because where there are vulnerabilities, there are hackers. It was a natural law of the universe, and one Silver Wolf had no intention of disobeying. 

“Hm,” she mused, raising a brow following Venti’s attack, “You’ve gained a few levels from that last fight. Why don’t you give that another go? Here–I’ll soften ‘em up for you.” 

Silver Wolf (10/10 HP 2/2 SP) uses Elemental Skill: Allow Changes? [Lv. 5] on Furiae Philosopher (47/50 HP) Furiae Philosopher takes 2 - 2 = 0 damage and is inflicted with Anemo Weakness for 2 rounds. Furiae Philosopher (47/50 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack Roll 1d2: 1, Success: Entanglement is applied

Sparing not a second more for chitchat, she got to work typing something into an interface before materializing a virus above the enemy’s head. It took the shape of one of those pixelated space invaders that gets overused in everything ‘gamer.’ As it crashed into her target, its body disassembled and clung to the foe’s body as tiny voxels. Imagine the idea of a cocklebur, only cubed and not spherical. She followed up with a few blasts from her gauntlet’s cannon mode: 

Silver Wolf (10/10 HP 2/2 SP) uses Normal Attack: System Warning [Lv. 2] on Furiae Philosopher (47/50 HP) [Roll: 7 + 1 = 8, -(1.5 - 2 = 0) HP] Furiae Philosopher (47/50 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack Silver Wolf (10/10 HP 2/2 SP) uses Normal Attack: System Warning [Lv. 2] on Furiae Philosopher (47/50 HP) [Roll: 5 + 1 = 6, -(1.5 - 2 = 0) HP] Furiae Philosopher (47/50 HP) loses 1 War Armor Stack, takes 20% damage (10) Furiae Philosopher (37/50 HP) All instances of Proselytize are removed Roll 1d3 = 1, success, Roll 1d3 = 1, Attack Bug is applied for 2 rounds

“...And, done. Should be nice and cracked.” Indeed it was. The outer layer of its armor (or its spirit? It’s hard to glance from looks alone) had given way to her repeated barrage. Whatever protective forces wrapped it prior were no more. Not just Venti, but Gepard and Siegfried too could chew through the singled-out enemy. 

“Feel free to give it your best shot.” 

All within a moment, his eyes closed—and the world felt as though it turned on its axis. The sensation made him nauseous, and just as his stomach began to lurch, his eyes snapped open. Everything leveled out instantly. The ground was beneath his feet where it belonged, and his battered body was full of vigor once again. “What the hell…” Gepard muttered, incredulous, as he gave himself a careful once-over.

He darted his gaze between the allies at his side and the new wave of enemies now staring them down. Slowly, he began to calm. There were questions he wanted to ask—about the cruel repetition of this moment, about how it was even possible—but Gepard held no delusions. Not even death, it seemed, was the end of his duty. “Of course,” he sighed. “I wouldn't want to waste your efforts.”

Gepard rolls 3 energy!

Earthwork was back in his hands. Its weight grounded him like a missing piece returned, and with it came a steady wave of confidence. Gepard scanned the opposing force—tall, well-armored enemies loomed ahead—but one was already weakened by his allies. That one would be his target. 

“Are you prepared to trade blows? I hope so,” Gepard said coldly, launching himself at the amalgamation with renewed strength.

[-1 Energy] Gepard (13/13HP 2/2SP) HITS with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Lv. 5] on Furiae Philosopher (37/50 HP) [Roll: 19, -2.5] Furiae Philosopher ( 37/50 HP) counters with War, Father of All [Roll: 9,  -2.5, ATTACK REDUCED! -1, GEPARD RESISTS 1.5 damage = -0] KNIGHT’S VOW activates, [-(0.5 + 1)= 1.5, PYRO SWIRL! X1.5=2, Melt! X1.5! =3HP ] Pyro damage against Furiae Philosopher (34/50 HP) IGNITE TRAUMA procs Furiae Philosopher (33/50 HP) KNIGHT’S VOW activates, Siegfried Kaslana: 10/10HP / 2/2SP HITS with Artemis’ Guardian, [Rolls: 20, -4HP, Passive! +2, Allies under Knights vow! +4, Artefact! +1=11, PYRO SWIRLED! X1.5= -16.5 ] Furiae Philosopher (16.5/50 HP) [-1 Energy] Gepard (13/13HP 2/2SP) CRITICALLY HITS with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Lv. 5] on Furiae Philosopher (16.5/50 HP) [Roll: 20,-5, MELT! X1.5= 7.5 ] Furiae Philosopher ( 9/50 HP) misses with War, Father of All [Roll: 4, -0] IGNITE TRAUMA procs Furiae Philosopher  ( 8/50 HP) [-1 Energy] Gepard (13/13HP 2/2SP) misses Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Lv. 5] on Furiae Philosopher (8/50 HP) [Roll: 3, -0 ] Furiae Philosopher ( 8/50 HP) counters with War, Father of All [Roll: 6, -2.5, ATTACK REDUCED! -1, GEPARD RESISTS 1.5 damage = -0] IGNITE TRAUMA procs Furiae Philosopher  ( 7/50 HP) KNIGHT’S VOW activates, [-(0.5 + 1)= 1.5, PYRO SWIRLED! X1.5 = -3HP] Pyro damage against Furiae Philosopher (5/50 HP)KNIGHT’S VOW procs, Siegfried Kaslana: 10/10HP / 2/2SP HITS with Artemis’ Guardian, [Rolls: 2, = -2HP, Passive! +1, Allies under Knights vow! +4, Artefact! +1=8, PYRO SWIRLED! X1.5= 12] Furiae Philosopher ( -7/50 HP)

“Mister Kaslana, let us move as one!” A good Captain knew when to match strength—and when to pull back. Having fought alongside Siegfried once already, Gepard knew they could complement each other. It would take careful footwork, but if they could mix fire and ice… they’d be devastating together.

As expected, their combat styles blended seamlessly. They covered each other’s flanks, and when Gepard struck, the monster retaliated—only to be met with Siegfried’s swift counter. In moments, the statue-like creature crumbled beneath their onslaught, falling in shattered pieces to the floor.

FURIAE PHILOSOPHER -7/50 HP is DEFEATED

“The die is cast...” Gepard muttered. They were well on their way now, having already felled one of the behemoths. Still, he'd been confident the last time too… and that had not ended well. “Stay alert—and stay behind me. They’ll be upon us soon.”

Gepard (13/13HP, 2SP) taunts Furiae Praetor [Roll: 1] Furiae Praetor (88/90 HP, 4 War Armor) misses Gepard (13/13 HP, 2SP) with Skyveil to Dawn [Roll: 4, -0] Furiae Praetor (87.5/50 HP, 4 War Armor) loses 1 War Armor Stack Gepard (13/13HP, 2SP) does not taunt Furiae Praetor [Roll: 2] Furiae Praetor (87.5/90 HP, 3 War Armor) hits Gepard (13/13 HP, 2SP) [Roll: 1 (Gepard)] with Skyveil to Dawn [Roll: 8, -1.5 Damage Reduction, -1.5HP]Gepard (13/13 HP, 0.5SP) is Imprisoned [Roll: 1]

The enemy advanced with rigid, emotionless movements, unleashing a torrent of hell upon them. Gepard braced himself, confidence faltering as he worried he wouldn’t be able to shield them from it all.

But he did.

Everyone was safe behind him—and he was no worse for wear, either.

Good.

Furiae Praetor uses Special Attack: Rise from the Grave, summons 2 Furiae Warriors

... "More?!"

Silver Wolf: 2.5/10HP uses Elemental Skill: Allow Changes? on Hydro Abyss Mage  21/30 HP Hydro Abyss Mage  21/30 HP takes 2 Damage, Hydro Abyss Mage  19/30 HP Hydro Abyss Mage 19/30 HP is inflicted with Cryo weakness Roll 1d2: 2, Failure: Entanglement is not applied Hydro Abyss Mage 19/30 HP COUNTERS with Normal Attack: Water Ball [Rolls: 19, -1.5HP] Silver Wolf: 2/10HP / 0/1SP

She demonstrated by pulling her ironsights up to her nose, breathing deep, and firing a focused shot at the hydro mage. Combat was far from her forte, but even Silver Wolf could don the stance of the Hunter she really was, could get her work done if she really applied herself. The bullet didn’t hit the mage anywhere on its body, rather it broke the pearl on its staff and sent hydro energy splashing out in every direction. It doused itself. It gained a weakness to any sort of cold attacks that might crystallize tiny ice shards to stab into its skin. “See? There’s nothing to it. You focus on your job, and I’ll do mine with my eyes closed.” 

Only, it wasn’t so easy. With an abundance of water pooling around the mage, it had a surplus to materialize and fling back at Silver Wolf. She braced herself, but still it soaked her and sent jolts through her electronics. The battle was dragging on. She needed to put an end to things, lest a few more hits like that totally short-circuit her gear, leaving her useless,

But more importantly,

Pissed. 

Venti rolls 5 Energy!

Again, he employs his tried-and-true strategy: trap the mage first, then turn it into a little pincushion.

[-2 Energy] Venti (0.5/10 HP 1/1 SP) uses Elemental Skill: Skyward Sonnet [Lv. 1] on Hydro Abyss Mage (17/30 HP): Hydro Abyss Mage (16/30 HP) Hydro Abyss Mage (16/30 HP) INFLICTED WITH Struggle, cannot counterattack. [-1 Energy] Venti (0.5/10 HP 1/1 SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship against Hydro Abyss Mage (16/30 HP) [Roll 1d20 = 11, -1 HP]: Hydro Abyss Mage (15/30 HP) [-1 Energy] Venti (0.5/10 HP 1/1 SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship against Hydro Abyss Mage (15/30 HP) [Roll 1d20 = 12, -1 HP]: Hydro Abyss Mage (14/30 HP) [-1 Energy] Venti (0.5/10 HP 1/1 SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship against Hydro Abyss Mage (14/30 HP) [Roll 1d20 = 12, -1 HP]: Hydro Abyss Mage (13/30 HP)

He inched closer to Siegfried - if he volunteered to take some hits for the rest of them, who was Venti to refuse?

"Gepard, my friend-" he started, but then glanced at Gepard himself, and noticed how ragged he looked. "Please - don't overdo it."

His words left out the details, but it gladdened his tired heart to know someone understood his meaning. Siegfried must be a seasoned veteran like him—probably already assessing their situation just as he had. Gepard wouldn’t stand beside any of them after this, but drawing attention to it wouldn’t do much good.

Even still, there was fight left in him, and he’d exhaust every bit of it before letting defeat make a fool of him. Gepard supposed there truly was a first time for everything. “Please, worry about yourself. Turning my way won’t do you any good, I’m afraid. I... urge you to keep looking forward no matter what.” Gepard winced as he spoke, turning away from Venti for the final time.

Gepard rolls 5 Energy!

He smirked in the face of his enemy—a stark contrast to the frown so often etched into his features. “I was hoping to take one of you with me... Guess I’ll just have to add this to my tally of failures.” A long list, it would be, each strike furthering the dishonor of his noble name.

[-3 Energy] Gepard: 0.5/10HP 1/1SP uses Elemental Skill: Daunting Smite [Lv.1] on Hydro Abyss Mage 13/30 HP [Roll: 2, -1HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 12/30 HP Hydro Abyss Mage is not Frozen!

The weight of Earthwork no longer felt even in his grip—it threatened to flatten him into the ground. Yet still, he held fast, slamming it against the mage with whatever strength remained. Luck was not on his side, however. The freeze he had hoped for never came. Well, if it couldn’t be frozen... it would have to be destroyed. “I’ll give you all I have!” he shouted, both to himself and to the creature, letting Earthwork fall against the floor with a resounding bang.

[-1 Energy] Gepard: .05/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 12/30 HP [Rolls: 10, -2HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 11/30 HP  Hydro Abyss Mage 11/30 HP has STRUGGLED! Cannot Counterattack [-1 Energy] Gepard: .05/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 10/30 HP [Rolls: 8, -2HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 8/30 HP Hydro Abyss Mage 8/30 HP has STRUGGLED! Cannot Counterattack

Gepard let loose a barrage of strikes until his arms would no longer obey. When they hung limply at his sides, drained of strength, the distinguished captain fell to his knees. Damn... it still stood above him. “Not good...”

 Hydro Abyss Mage 8/30 HP is NOT taunted by Gepard: 0.5/10HP / 1/1SP [Rolls: 2] Hydro Abyss Mage 8/30 HP targets Gepard: 0.5/10HP / 1/1SP [Rolls: 4] Hydro Abyss Mage 8/30 HP hits Gepard: 0.5/10HP / 1/1SP with Special Attack: Rite of Mortal Water [Rolls: 14, -2HP, RESIST .5; -1.5HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 8/30 HP 13/13, Gepard: 0.0/10HP / 0/1SP

That sinister sound echoed overhead again, signaling the approach of a familiar storm of hail and agony. There was nothing he could do now—no final gambit to play. He could only grit his teeth and swallow the cries of pain.

When the rain finally cleared, he knew only because the sensation had faded. His ears rang, and his body collapsed, face-up, onto the cold stone beneath him. This was it...

Where had everyone gone..? Why couldn’t he see that blank sky above him anymore? Just who—who was covering his eyes at a time like this? The sensation was familiar—like a touch nearly forgotten in the depths of his memory. And in an instant, it struck him. It was her.

“Co...colia...”

Her voice rose above the ringing in his ears, and suddenly it was all he could hear. Loud, right in his mind—and yet, he couldn’t make out what she was saying. “I... I’m sorry, Cocolia. It’s... up to you now, Bronya.” The tension Gepard had always carried within him released in an instant as his eyes fluttered shut.

It was over now.

Silver Wolf: 2.5/10HP 1/1SP MISSES Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 8.5/13SP with Normal Attack: System Warning [Rolls: 2]

But after she loaded, aimed, and fired, she whiffed–again. On a frozen target, no less. She sighed in Venti's direction, knowing well that his set up led to something anticlimactic. Unbelievable for a gamer of her caliber; it was that stupid Bronya thing again. “I can assure you,” she growled, taking a breath before aiming her next volley, “that if she looks anything like me, she’s a cheap alt at best. My name only appears once on the leaderboard: right at the top.” 

Silver Wolf: 2.5/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 8.5/13SP with Normal Attack: System Warning [Rolls: 17, -1.5HP, QUANTUM WEAKNESS +1; -2.5HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 6/13SP [Rolls: 1] Entanglement! Applied Silver Wolf: 2.5/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 6/13SP with Normal Attack: System Warning [Rolls: 5, -1.5HP, QUANTUM WEAKNESS +1; -2.5HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 3.5/13SP

With her piece said, her mind was clear to resume slamming on the trigger. There wasn’t much to the shooting really, just pointing a barrel at a baddie and blasting them until there was nothing left to hit at anymore. She didn’t have her gear on her, so there wasn’t much to say or do–certainly not to the level of Siegfried or Venti’s theatrics. Just bullets whizzing past everyone’s heads and sinking into the shield of one of the mages. Sometimes they would stick in a funny way, sometimes shrapnel would pierce through, but generally, she didn’t have much to comment on.

This was why she would never become a simple hitman. 

“Anyone feel like these are taking too long to break, by the way? I mean, we just keep hitting them and hitting them, right? Maybe it’s a fight we’re scripted to lose..” 

His previous assessments seemed to fall through in an instant, the battlefield descending into chaos on both sides. First, it was the mention of Bronya that stirred him to listen in, despite their dire predicament.

Silverwolf hadn’t taken the comparison too kindly, it seemed—firing blanks in every direction. “Would you stop that!” Gepard shouted, doing his best to gather the attention of the girl with an attitude. “I urge you, Bro—Silverwolf... I urge you to keep your cool for the moment.”

A dangerous slip of the tongue. But now that he’d seen her more clearly... she really did look like Bronya in her younger years. The resemblance was almost endearing. Though, Bronya would never have thrown a tantrum like this.

The familiar pressure of danger interrupted his trip down memory lane. The mages had found their rhythm, and it was clear they planned to exploit their synergy again and again. Even if Gepard couldn’t stop them entirely, he could at least take on the cold for his allies. If anyone could withstand it, it would be him. He was born and raised in a never-ending winter. This was no different.

Cryo Abyss Mage 23/30 HP targets Gepard: 6.5/10 HPCryo Abyss Mage 23/30 HP CRITICALLY HITS Gepard: 6.5/10 HP with Special Attack: Rite of Rimestorm [Rolls: 20, -5HP, GEPARD RESISTS 0.5 DAMAGE; -4.5HP]: Gepard: 2/10 HP, Gepard: 2/10 HP is FROZENCryo Abyss Mage 23/30 HP recovers Cryo Shield: Cryo Abyss Mage 23/30 HP 13/13SP

That isn’t to say it didn’t hurt. The pain would’ve dropped him to his knees, were it not for the icy chains that bound him upright. That familiar, hollow ache returned to his chest—the one that whispered his body was nearing its limit. Yet two enemies still loomed, and they wouldn’t wait for him to catch his breath.

Gepard would simply have to lend every ounce of strength he had left to ensure his allies' victory. If his defeat was inevitable, then he’d face it standing.

Gepard: 2/10HP 1/1SP is no longer FROZEN Gepard rolls 5 Energy!

Now wasn’t the time for corrections or idle reminiscence about his home. It was time to be a Captain—to mitigate risk, to protect those who still stood behind him. These moments would be his last stand.

“Promise me you’ll all keep your heads from now on,” he called out over to his group of survivors. “You’ll need each other to pass this gauntlet standing.”

He took one final look back at the mismatched crew he’d been thrust alongside. Despite their differences, each one had proven themselves—outstanding in their own right. Surely, they’d be fine without him.

His gaze lingered on Silverwolf just a moment longer. He debated whether to say more, then settled on:

“You’ll need everyone in this room before this is over. Don’t go firing at them like you’ve got something to prove. This place won’t reward that kind of behavior.” It was a soft scolding—far gentler than the lectures he used to give back in Belobog. He couldn’t bring himself to unleash the full force of a Silvermane reprimand.

“Right, back to business,” he muttered, squaring his shoulders. He selected his target carefully—once again, the hydro mage. With luck, he could freeze it solid like before and break its defenses once and for all. Venti and Silverwolf had done a fine job weakening it. Now it just needed a push.

[-1 Energy] Gepard: 2/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 3.5/13SP [Rolls: 13, -2HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 1.5/13SP Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 1.5/13SP is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack[-1 Energy] Gepard: 2/10HP 1/1SP MISSES Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 1.5/13SP [Rolls: 2] Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 1.5/13SP is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack [-1 Energy] Gepard: 2/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 1.5/13SP [Rolls: 18, -2HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 27/30 HP Hydro Abyss Mage 27.5/30 HP / 1.5/13SP is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack [-1 Energy] Gepard: 2/10HP 1/1SP MISSES Hydro Abyss Mage 25/30 HP [Rolls:5] Hydro Abyss Mage 25/30 HP is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack [-1 Energy] Gepard: 2/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 25/30 HP [Rolls: 18, -2HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 23/30 HP Hydro Abyss Mage 23/30 HP is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack

A flurry of cold fury slammed into the mage, desperation giving strength to his blows. There wasn’t much time left—not for him, at least. Some strikes skidded harmlessly off the shield, but others hit home, ice forming where knuckles met magical resistance. Slowly, steadily, cracks began to spiderweb across its defenses. Once more, the shield shattered.

Each side was fighting with everything they had, but it was clear who held the upper hand. Those pesky magical barriers had allowed them to outlast their best efforts tenfold.

Cryo Abyss Mage 23/30 HP 10/13SP is  taunted by Gepard: 2/10HP 1/1SP  [Rolls: 1] Cryo Abyss Mage 23/30 HP 10/13SP HITSGepard: 2/10HP 1/1SP with Normal Attack: Cryo Thorns [Rolls: 3, -2HP, GEPARD RESISTS 0.5DMG; -1.5HP] Gepard: 0.5/10HP

Gepard braced Earthwork tightly against himself, preparing for the inevitable retaliation. Dagger-sharp waves of frost slammed into his armor, biting through every seam and crack. Each one took its toll. But his will to endure was stronger.

Gepard: 0.5/10HP COUNTERS with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Rolls:14, -2HP, Cryo Abyss Mage is IMMUNE; 0HP]

With strength that defied the state of his body, Gepard lifted Earthwork overhead, ready to bring it down in a final, decisive blow. Alas, the strength he summoned wasn’t enough—his strike ricocheted off the creature’s defenses, and he swore he saw it snicker. How frustrating... "Mister Kaslana, would you take it from here?"

Though they had never met, they each moved with an instinct to protect one another. What had taken years to forge within his own fleet had formed here in mere seconds. Was it a testament to their strength—or had something in him shifted since those early, ice-bound days in Belobog?

“I appreciate the concern, Mister Kaslana,” Gepard said, shaking the lingering chill from his joints, “but I’ve already exhausted your kindness.” He stepped forward, falling into stride beside the older man. "It wouldn't do for me to leave all the dirty work to you. As long as I stand, I'll fight."

Gepard rolls 4 energy!

Now that he understood the mages’ tactics, he felt confident. They wanted to freeze him? Fine. Two could play at that game. His sights locked onto the Hydro Mage near Siegfried’s target. The Cryo Mage was out of the question for him now, best left to his team. But this one—this one, he owed something.

In a blur, Gepard lunged at the mage’s barrier, fists cracking against its flowing surface. Like before, brute force would be his measure—and his message of his intent.

[-1 Energy] Gepard 7/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 10.5/13SP [Rolls: 13, -2HP] Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 7.5/13SP, Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 7.5/13SP is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack[-1 Energy] Gepard 7/10HP 1/1SP HITS Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 7.5/13SP [Rolls: 12, -2HP], Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 5.5/13SP, Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 5.5/13SP  is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack [-1 Energy] Gepard 7/10HP 1/1SP MISSES Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 5.5/13SP [Rolls: 3] Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 5.5/13SP  is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack [-1 Energy] Gepard 7/10HP 1/1SP MISSES Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 5.5/13SP [Rolls: 5] Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 5.5/13SP  is Frozen! Cannot Counterattack

He struck again and again. A flurry of precise, punishing blows echoed through the air. Some glanced harmlessly off the magic, but others dug in deep, sending ripples through the watery shield. With each hit, frost from his gauntlet began to cling and creep across the mage’s form, clinging to its small body.

When his arms ached and breath turned ragged, he stepped back, letting his strength return. The ice bought him a moment’s breath—brief, but undisturbed. Steadying himself, Gepard turned toward the two behind him. “Our course is clear,” he said calmly, though his voice held the weight of command. “But remember to pace yourselves. Your injuries don’t look severe, but still. Best to play it safe.”

Venti rolls 3 energy!

Once again, he pulled out his bow and took aim.

[-1 Energy] Venti (7/10 HP 1/1 SP) uses Normal Attack: Divine Marksmanship against Electro Abyss Mage (16/30 HP) [Roll 1d20 = 7, -1 HP + -1 HP (Defense Bug)]: Electro Abyss Mage (14/30 HP)

As the arrow pierced through the Electro Abyss Mage, he noticed that the mage seemed more hurt than expected - maybe one of his allies had helped him out once again.

The mage raised its staff to reciprocate the attack, and he braced himself for the lightning. The shock was... a shock, but it wasn't as bad as before.

Shaking out his tingling limbs, he brought out his lyre and continued his song. "Brace yourself!"

[-2 Energy] Venti (6/10 HP) uses Elemental Skill: Skyward Sonnet on Electro Abyss Mage (9/30 HP) [-1HP + -1HP (Defense Bug) + -1HP (Anemo Weakness)]: Electro Abyss Mage (6/30 HP) Electro Abyss Mage (6/30 HP) INFLICTED WITH Struggle, cannot counterattack. PYRO SWIRLED

The winds swirled around the mage, carrying the Pyro energy and trapping the mage in a fiery whirlwind. This should help finish this mage off...!

"Onto the next verse!" he announces. "Gepard, my friend, the stage is yours!"

The Captain gave a narrow nod toward his animated companion, eyes turning back to the heart of battle. From the rhythm of the fight, Gepard could now say with certainty: he understood the measure of his allies. Each of them had heart—and more than enough fire to press the advantage. All he could do in return was place his trust in them.

Gepard rolls 4 energy!

“Understood… I’ll make quick work of them, friend.” The word sat oddly in his mouth. Friend. Calling someone that after such brief acquaintance stirred something in him. Yet it echoed of the kindness the Astral Express had once shown him—kindness in the face of his mistreatment. If they could extend such grace, so could he.

The mage they’d been targeting was clearly faltering, its floating reduced to a haggard kneel. Its time was short, and Gepard felt no hesitation in finishing what they'd started. “I have no epic words to share, but I’ll finish our work nonetheless.”

[-1 Energy] Gepard: 10/10HP / 1/1SP CRITICALLY HITS Electro Abyss Mage 6/30 HP with Normal Attack: Fist of Conviction [Rolls: 20,  -4HP,]  Electro Abyss Mage 2/30 HP

Practice bred power. His strikes came fluid and merciless: a right hook, a jab, and then Earthwork crashing down from above. Every move carried weight and precision.

When the mage could no longer stand, Gepard’s eyes shifted to a new threat. In the heat of motion, he failed to notice the water trailing down his armor—until it was too late. Earthwork slammed against a frosty shield, but something was off. The mage didn’t miss its moment. A blast of energy surged from its staff, and the cold was once again upon him. Ice wormed into the joints of his armor, attempting to lock him in place.

[-3 Energy] Gepard: 10/10HP / 1/1SP hits Cryo Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 9/13SP [IMMUNE TO CRYO DAMAGE] Cryo Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 9/13SP counters with Normal Attack: Cryo Thorns [Rolls: 14, -2HP, GEPARD RESISTS 0.5Hp; -1.5] Gepard: 9.5/10HP IGNITE TRAUMA! -1HP, Cryo Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 8/13SP

Before the freeze set in, he staggered back to his allies. But even now, his work wasn’t done. These creatures showed no mercy—why would they? “I’ve made an error in judgment… I won’t be able to protect you until I’m thawed. Please forgive me, everyone.”

He braced for impact. Then, with little warning, one of the mages crumpled—then exploded in a flash of white light. His breath caught. This place only continued to make no sense. But there was no time to dwell. The other mages were already upon them.

ENTANGLEMENT PROCS! Electro Abyss Mage 2/30 HP -2HP, Electro Abyss Mage 0/30 HP is DEFEATED

The cold only worsened, the fresh blast deepening the freeze gripping him. Gepard clenched his teeth, swallowing the grunt in his throat. Pain was fine. He could take it. Better him than those behind him. He was the Captain of the Silvermane Guard. Ice would not break him—even if it scraped beneath his armor, not even if it reached his bones.

Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 10.5/13SP is TAUNTED by Gepard: 9.5/10HP [Rolls:1] Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 10.5/13SP CRITICALLY HITS Gepard: 9.5/10HP with Normal Attack: Waterball [Rolls: 20, -3HP, GEPARD RESISTS 0.5 DAMAGE; -2.5HP]  Gepard: 7/10HP, GEPARD is IMMOBILE, Gepard: 7/10HP is FROZENIGNITE TRAUMA! Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 10.5/13SP -1HP, Hydro Abyss Mage 30/30 HP / 9.5/13SP

Another mage readied its staff. But it didn’t strike him. Its eyes shifted toward the boy with the bow. Gepard’s jaw tightened in frustration. He’d left a hole in their defense. 'Forgive me.' Thankfully the ice around him cracked, then shattered. Cold dispelled into nothing more than an unpleasant memory. He was free, and not a second too soon.

The ice began to weaken, however, and so Gepard had no time to dwell on the failure. The restraints that held him hostage were shattered in an instance, and at last, he was back to full capacity.

Gepard: 7/10HP is NO LONGER FROZEN, Gepard: 7/10HP is NO LONGER IMMOBILE

“We’ve made good progress,” he said, straightening to his full height. “We only need to hold on a bit longer.” With his words came a sense of finality, hopefully enough to cover up the embarrassment of his blunder.