STARS / SIEGED

He's using that tone again. The absolutely insufferable one that makes her want so badly to grab and shake him every time he starts derailing a meeting to preach with it. Her arms tighten slightly around her creature, who lets out a soft and pathetic mewl in response. She quickly stops the action, mumbling a quick apology down to it under her breath. Orders are still orders, no matter how much she dislikes them. She steps closer to him as he gestures her to.

It always surprises her how quickly he changes from playing the buffoon to proving that perhaps, there is some merit still in him that keeps his claim on his seat. Lingsha listens silently to his assessment of the situation, absently petting the creature as she thinks it over. It is true that every meeting, even one as informal as this, is a battlefield of its own. The owner of the space station is quite well known for her...eccentricities, and Lingsha has not had the time or opportunity to meet any officials outside of the Xianzhou just yet.

He actually sounds concerned for her. She watches him back silently, smile finally allowed to fade for a more neutral mask as she considers his words and watches for any flicker that might give him away. Is he really concerned, she wonders, or is this just another of the many faces he wears to do what has to be done?

The elevator breaks their silent moment of consideration. Lingsha watches him enter, still taking careful consideration of what he'd said. Finally, with a sigh and a brief closing of her eyes, she nods. "Understood, General. Thank you for your consideration."

'Click'

The button just beneath the one she'd pressed, which would ultimately guide them to a floor lower than hers. Beware a dagger hidden in a smile. Calming jazz music compliments the tense ride up, the General pondering exactly how he would gain the upper hand on her again.

The ride up is quiet, tension growing heavier with each passing moment. Yet soon enough, another 'ding,' and the door slides open. He steps out, his foot preventing the door from closing with her still on. "While you were correct, there's a set of labs on this floor that I think you'd enjoy. And don't get your hopes up about meeting Madam Herta. Her wait list is... extensive." That was a good way of putting it. Perhaps he grew tired of the facade, but this smile and these words do feel more sincere. It was always hard to tell with the General.

"Master Control and the main series of labs focus on a plethora of different experiments and studies. I couldn't even begin to tell you what their focus is now." Beckoning her on, the hallway would come to an end, expanding into a larger main area with several consoles and scientists diligently working. There were two doors on either side, and a set of stairs on the other end of the room.

"On the left is Medical R & D and on the right, Botany." He points to both, before waving his hand. "Or perhaps it's reversed." Another cheeky little look. "And up those stairs, the main labs." As scientists begin to notice, some carry on while others begin to murmur. His eyes avoid their own in hopes that they leave them both alone. Instead, they gaze upon her. He wouldn't even be surprised if she missed it. "So... Botany or Medical?"

Perhaps his own curiosity wondered where hers would wander. Eyes glint, reflecting the gentle blue, purple, and white hues of each screen. Momentarily, carmine eyes reflect the stars that comfort the space station, enveloped in gentle, glowing light cascading from the harsh LED's above them; the darkened cover of space yearned for something as majestic as the Luofu's Cauldron Master.

 A gaze that unfeelingly fell over them all. The only constant that he maintained was that they were there.

One could say it was to honor, but that wasn't something he was capable of. His purpose had been made clear time and again. Yet he was still here in spite of such notions. He would be amicable. There was no gain, no words he hadn’t already repeated to the white haired man whose presence sorely stuck out to him. “Have the stars lazed about so much that these are the same she saw?” Were these the stars that she’d have seen, that she’d have travelled through before cutting back to them as she always had. Try as he might, Blade couldn’t refrain from the antagonism. Improvement did not correct mistakes already made. “Or have those fleeting memories of hers died out as well?” What compelled him to be here, Blade could not know, did not want to know. It wouldn’t change that he was. 

Was it because in the darkness no one could make out the sorrows that shaped his heart, or perhaps that he could still pretend those fallen were nearby, just out of reach? Still, such pain was needed, a commodity, a reminder that he still could suffer more. Such thoughts comforted him oddly enough.

"Who is to say, old friend," voice warm yet shallow. He keeps his distance, finally getting to speak with the man known as Blade. Such a familiar face, yet such a different glare. Perhaps he was just getting old, unable to remember well enough what had once been properly.

"What do you seek here? What are you hoping to find?" His words feel chained, already knowing what is to come. "She isn't here. At least not any version of her that matters. Unless you're willing to sate such carnage on the ghosts of the past."

but now finding themselves planet-side, jiaoqiu quietly considers; a planet's gravity has always felt peculiar underfoot. there's something that feels almost fluid about it, like it seeks to pull you in slowly, inch by inch, until feet are trapped in place --- then, knees, hips, chest, shoulders. then, it would come for the senses, muffling each one completely until all were gone.

this certainly wasn't the first time he'd sensed it, a distinctly earthen dread --- legions of verdant knights he'd worked alongside before now had sunk just as easily. perhaps it was more that he now felt directly susceptible to it in a vast and unknown space, and less of a witness on the peripheries.

Even upon their descent, the General stuck close to the Foxian, his gaze anywhere but the one familiar to him. His trust only belong to one. The trail was quiet, offering little in the ways of small talk; neither seemed to want to be here. Who would have figured that much? Jing Yuan simply wished they'd picked a nicer locale. Then again, they probably wouldn't need to accompany these guild members should the planet not be treacherous.

Even their rests felt uninspired, with Jing Yuan sat before it, simply contemplating. "Hmm?" In response, eyes finding the other. Something is off about the man, but he does not interject. Eyes would drift back to the fire, unmoved by such queries. "I feel this will be no different than our offenses. We stride forward, piercing the darkness with only The Hunt to guide us. We have survived before, and we will survive whatever may lie in wait for us, Jiaoqiu." His demeanor is different, the usual dozing nature that he carried all but gone before he finally stands. The fire is left to burn alone for the moment.

That didn't make his company any more welcome, but she'll concede to a point she cannot argue against.

"Well, the last thing we want is for our General to feel as though he has wasted time." As though he did not waste time when he did have work to lounge about or do literally anything except the things he was supposed to be doing. "I only hope that what I have in mind will not bore you."

Like she is some sort of stupid, mindless, plaything that he can just-

Her expression is schooled back to polite calm as the step out of the room again. She doesn't doubt that there is security in place that anyone who might have been curious could have already listened in on their conversations and heard the barbs dragged across each other's hide. Still, she would rather not cause a scene in public, where wandering ears might carry what they here to sources unknown.

Shuffling the weight of her critter carefully in her arms, Lingsha turns on her heel and begins to walk in the direction she recalls them being herded to initially upon their brief tour of the Station. "Well, thank you for being so willing to wield your authority for my sake. I hope that all efforts between our commissions can be so simple and cooperative in the future."

"Oh, no reason. Just that as far as I'm aware, you haven't been to the space station," there's something about the tone he speaks with, matter-of-fact accented with something much deeper. "I wouldn't say you're lost just yet. You haven't really wandered around to get lost, and I presume you to be aware of the areas we have visited due to my guidance or the guidance of others." His musings seem to bounce back and forth, an index propping on his chin. "And another small thing that comes to mind."

Beckoning her closer, that playful exterior breaks completely, face stern as he gazes upon her features. "You have not met Madam Herta, nor any of her assistants, so you probably don't know how they treat strangers." A soft jet of air from nostrils jostles the furs of his pet, earning an irritated 'merp' out of it. Jing Yuan assesses the woman, then the catcake, with lips twisting as he searches for the what he can offer.

What was it she said? 'Please put your faith in me?'

"They are difficult to navigate. I would feel better if I were with you." Words of a jaded man, one who had scarcely interacted with them aside from establishing beneficial trade routes. General out of obligation instead of choice, that glint of sincerity is quick to vanish upon the sound of a 'ding' behind them. Of all the things to get underneath her skin, this was perhaps the most surprising of them.

As he steps into the elevator, his hand holds the door, allowing her to join him. Head hanging, eyes meet the catcake's, still perhaps blind to its likenesses. Finally, looking upwards, his smile is just as coy as before.

What had been a simple expedition turned treacherous very quickly. From narrow cliffsides that nearly claimed multiple other members to enemy combatants far stronger than any mara-struck bastard that sought cleave through flesh for their God, Jing Yuan was not the only one on guard. They had just set up camp for the evening in a clearing, pillars both standing and collapsed made for solid cover, and between him and the other escort, they were a solid duo.

They had finally found calm as night crept over each soul, only illuminated by a camp fire and some lit torches that rested upon rusted sconces. It was quiet, aside from the occasional brush of wind across their faces, or the gentle sound of crumbling rocks... Well, that latter was not cause for comfort. It began when the other man, Zhongli, he said his name was, decided to investigate the sound Jing Yuan could hardly hear. Still, it was better they went together rather than risk a loss. The expedition had gone without casualties so far, unless you counted a couple twisted ankles...

It happened so quickly, a nearby pillar had some rocks tumble down from up above, and in their concern, another behind them finally gave, the weight of time and atmosphere too much for it to continue to bear. It fell far quicker than he anticipated, and all he could do was stride forward, hands finding Zhongli's shoulders to shove him forward. "Go, quickly," he yelled as the rubble fell.

His vision goes dark as the pillar crushes him beneath such grand weight.

It is too hard to make out much more than, "Master," he murmurs out. A stretched arm, extending forward towards the back of one lost to him. How could he ever go back. With her stood three others, blurry, etched out. Fogginess overtakes them, leaving him with different faces. They stood close, yet they were still so cold. Another arm stretches out, asking, "Wait, wait..."

His chest feels tight, but he cannot make out anything. Eyes cannot open yet, he cannot move aside from some fingers. Lips part, trying offer words that simply cannot come out. His throat is as sandpaper, instead only able to cough pathetically.

" you're a big name , it seems , I know someone that is a little like you -- though I can't say how well the two of you would get along . " strong , commanding , answers to little to nobody . . . yet , this one felt a lot more willing to be carefree compared to the person she'd answered to all those years ago .

" the paperwork part must be the best part of the job , i imagine . " said in a sarcastic tone , trying to lighten up the mood a little more , as Jing Yuan surveyed the area , Mei did as well , still feeling . . . uneasy , almost unwelcomed here , making sure there was nothing in the building .

her eyes shot up the moment the general called out , catching a glimpse of the curtain still moving , there was a likely chance it could be a scared civilian , so her weapon wasn't drawn . . . but she was certainly ready .

" are you certain ? " she backed towards him , ensuring the two stayed side by side . " did you see someone , or something ? "

could it have just been the wind ? could it have been some stray animal caught down here . . .

or could it have been something more sinister ?

A hand finds his chin, lips pursing as he keeps is gaze upon that window. Had their commission been any different, he'd have assumed a trick of the eye, light reflecting strangely, or some other illusion of presence.

He was not so naive to assume such an easy excuse, though.

"In that window." His Guan Dao points upwards. "Someone or... something was in there. It could be as simple as a stray animal or a gust of wind but... I don't trust it." The spear comes down, a gentle clink as the blade meets pavement.

A simple not per her request to stay close. Splitting up at a time like this is as cliche as it can get. But this was no horror movie. They were smarter than whatever plot device sought to push the plot forward. "We should go and take a peek. If something is trapped there, we should help them. If something is planning our demise, then we should remove them." He speaks bluntly, already heading towards the building.

He was strong, she carried herself as a warrior. Whether she was stronger or weaker, as long as she could fight, she would be enough. He is confident in his stride.

And it hadn't been bravado, a hit that could have landed from a final punch through gritted teeth. It was a measured swing like all the rest, any form and technique like clockwork and simply a mimic of something from somewhere Kosma will never know.

This err carries over to sir Caelus, the man standing taller and more planted then before even as he strikes forward. He's unsure if his footing seems off or maybe it was his shifting hands, but Kosma could not see from the ground where he places his hands—his body already ready as it splits.

KOSMA [4-4-4SP] rolls 4 energy!

[-1 energy] KOSMA [Cryo] uses Elemental Burst: The Guards’ Torch. Until the end of this player phase, KOSMA enters Daybreak Form. While in Daybreak Form, incoming damage is halved.

Upon entering Daybreak Form, immediately inflict Rend on 2 random enemies.

SHADOW OF YANQING [Pyro] is inflicted with Rend until the end of this player phase.

All enemies have been inflicted with Rend!

The miasma that crawls from his form is an aura unseen by eye and the silent roar he allows as his jaw and canine teeth come through with a tear and his body taking flight. The beat of his wings blocking out the soft and ever present purple atmosphere to truly make the air seem mauve or blood red in color. He's unsure if this humanoid can even feel fear, but the sizzling of reality and the bending of light into the negative must feel cold.

[-0 energy] Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo] uses Follow-up Attack: Violation of the Dead.

Entanglement applies! SHADOW OF YANQING is now inflicted with Entanglement. On the start of their next turn, SHADOW OF YANQING [Pyro][Entanglement] will receive -8HP (2+6HP) + 1 from Solar Pearl for -9HP damage.

He does not wish to test how far he is gone, kicked in and out of this form at a speed comparable to Kevin laying him flat on his back during training, he is still glad it can do one thing. Strike fear, even as his mind wants to tear rip rend!

[-1 energy] Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 8] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Pyro][Entanglement].

Daybreak Form inflicts Rend, guaranteeing Critical hit! Base damage is -4HP (Physical).

Passive! On Hit or better, next Elemental Skill or Burst gains +1 to modifier. Resets after one use.

SHADOW OF YANQING [Pyro][Entanglement][95/350HP] has taken -4HP damage.

Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 5] against Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo].

Hit! Base damage is -2.5HP (Cryo).

Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo][10/10HP][4-1.5-4SP] has taken -2.5SP damage.

He allows himself to dart through the air by changing how his muscles ripped and his wings meet the air he flapped through next, he is already soaring over Kallen's head and out from Caelus' protection as he takes a swipe at the younger looking humanoid. He successfully drags his claws across the floating foe and even draws him back, but being so close has his shield eating a battering wind that breezes his rough skin. The hide was already thick enough to handle it before, but this shield was something impressive. He'll take notes of this senior for later...

[-1 energy] Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 12] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Pyro][Entanglement].

Daybreak Form inflicts Rend, guaranteeing Critical hit! Base damage is -4HP (Physical).

Passive! On Hit or better, next Elemental Skill or Burst gains +1 to modifier. Resets after one use.

SHADOW OF YANQING [Pyro][Entanglement][91/350HP] has taken -4HP damage.

Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 6] against Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo].

Hit! Base damage is -2.5HP (Cryo).

Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo][10/10HP][3-0-4SP] has taken -2.5SP damage.

He is turning around, his wings straightened and his spine and body using his momentum to change his flight path to circle around once more. Much closer and with easier distance to judge, he manages an even sturdier hit that ends up with the blonde foe almost careening sideways. Those moves are unhindered as always, and with a tad more precision the foe aimed for his center of mass. Not like the winds could pierce him now with their non-physical nature, but the shield keeps him safe as he flies over the eldest gentleman of their group.

He is wordless as he feels himself fold back into being human, a few feet off the ground nothing as he comes to a clean, rolling stop. His knees do not hit the ground harshly, but with a practiced ease. He wishes he'd stop getting into this practice, but he's not the one forcing himself to change back again and again. If he had his way, he'd be useful and—nevermind.

Daybreak Form KOSMA [10/10HP][3-0-4SP] ends his turn.

With this ghost growing weaker, Jing Yuan does not stop the assault, hoping that the end is nearer than they may anticipate. He watches his comrades act, waiting for his time to strike. Eventually, he finds his time to strike, striding between them to strike with his spear.

[-1 energy] JING YUAN [None] uses Normal Attack: Glistening Light [Roll: 19] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Pyro]. Critical hit! Base damage is -3HP (Electro).  Overload triggers! But nothing happens lmao. No additional enemies. SHADOW OF YANQING [None][88/350HP] has taken -3HP damage. Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 11] Hit! Base damage is -2.5HP (Cryo). JING YUAN [10/10HP] [4-1.5-4SP] has taken -2.5SP damage.

The Guan Dao swoops down, slashing through the boy and sparking against the fiery remnants of Caelus. An explosion erupts, out of the combination between them. Yanqing strikes back, doing little against the shield provided by the Trailblazer. A grunt, blades meeting once more, sliding off of each other. Lightning Lord then sparks forward, grasping its spear with intent.

[-3 energy] JING YUAN [Cryo] uses Elemental Burst: Lightbringer [+4 Hit Per Action; Total: 6/8]. Base damage is -4HP (Electro) to ALL ENEMIES. SHADOW OF YANQING [Electro][84/350HP] has taken -4HP damage.

Perhaps preemptive in its own accord, but his intent is to end this fight as quickly as possible. One does not hold back when they are on the precipice of victory. Lightning Lord sweeps forward, spear dragging across the stones and ruins, cutting through with the intent to carve the earth once more. Dust and stone kicks up, gnarled after strikes of electricity have scarred the arena. Lightning Lord does not stop, both its hands reaching to the polearm to plunge it deep onto Yanqing.

JING YUAN’S LIGHTNING LORD [Hits Per Action: 6/8] uses Active (Follow-up Attack): Prana Extirpated on SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Electro]. Base damage for each hit is -6HP (Electro). Prana Extirpated has a 10% chance to land a Critical Hit on every hit [Roll: 10, 8, 3, 1, 4, 2]. SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Electro][21/350HP] has taken -63HP (6×1.5×5) + (12 x 1.5) damage.

He and the lad with a lance, burning hot it was and steaming the chilly air that comes naturally from this human mirage, and by the time he assumed position behind Caelus, stance at the ready. "You're doing the right thing. Anything here is our prey."

He doesn't catch himself to say enemy, a grounding term that doesn't stripe the enemy of its human status so you can hold a caution to your actions, no. He was a hunter of all things mimicking humans, be them Beast from space who infect the populace or creature in human skin. To him, this was no person to hold back to, it's no better than him a Honkai.

KOSMA [10/10HP][4-4-3SP] rolls 5 energy!

[-2 energy] KOSMA [None] uses Elemental Skill: Undetermined Judgement against SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct]. Base damage is -4HP (Quantum).

SHADOW OF YANQING 202.5/350HP [Super-conduct] has taken -4HP damage.

[Rolls: 1] Entanglement applies! against SHADOW OF YANQING. On the start of their next turn, SHADOW OF YANQING will receive -2HP damage.

Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Super-conduct] is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 19] against CAELUS [None].

Critical hit! Base damage is -5HP (Cryo).

CAELUS [Cryo][10/10HP][1-4-0SP][+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 6/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP and has taken 2SP damage.

From the get-go he had enough fight in him that would have made a difference during their final fight, but he can't let that get to him. Between his fingers he can feel the reality shift that happens when he's able to summon portals—glass and almost reflective little surfaces truly almost like a plate—that beam between each other that cages the foe. Like before it hits the core of his foe where his heart and mind with its interweaving energy. The pain of reality must be crushing.

But the sheer wind that bites at his body through the shield is heavy enough he wonders if it hurts, but that warmth and molten crackle to the air only softens in sound and not noticeable strength.

[-1 energy] KOSMA [None] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 7] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Super-conduct].

Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical).

SHADOW OF YANQING [200.5/350HP] has taken -2HP damage.

Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 3] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Miss!

This time, it was best to leave Caelus to breathe from that slight brush with power and take it for himself. From his spot he launches forward with his claws at the ready, this foe is human and so he aims for the throat. The head of the foe whips back but he tackles their body to strike it at its center mass.

When the humanoid creature tried to attack Kosma and by extent Caelus behind him, the young man still had to foe by his clothes and manhandled the shot he would take off the lined path he had for Caelus with a mighty swing. While the enemy wasn't going to hit the floor without a massive force of strength, floating is easily maneuverable with just enough force.

[-1 energy] KOSMA [None] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 4] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Super-conduct].

Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical).

SHADOW OF YANQING [198.5/350HP] has taken -2HP damage.

Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 17] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage at -2.5HP (Cryo).

CAELUS [Cryo][+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 7/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP.

Another slash between the shoulder blades as the creature is much more swift this time, but not fast enough again. This time the strike that would have hit Caelus did, and was nearly as powerful as the first one. The bones in his ears could hear the rattle that would have done to himself, he can only applaud the other for taking it head-on.

[-1 energy] KOSMA [None] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 11] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Super-conduct].

Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical).

SHADOW OF YANQING [196.5/350HP] has taken -2HP damage.

Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 15] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage is -2.5HP (Cryo).

CAELUS [Cryo][+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 8/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP.

Able to grab at the young looking creatures neck now that the two attacks had stagnated the speed he approached his allies, he was able to go far the face. The face does bend as he lands a punch, yes he closes up his fist for this final time, but it does not contour in anything except recognition. Pain, anger, or even shock at close-up direct trauma, Kosma will not know as the wind picks up and he is blown back behind his allies shield. While the frost had been tempting to this sweltering heat, it was much more welcome as the sound of heavy wind bites at the shield.

Kosma was pushed back onto a knee as he looks to the senior, Jing Yuan, he is reminded. "... Whatever it is, aim for the head."

KOSMA [10/10HP][4-4-3SP] ends his turn.

JING YUAN [8.5/10HP][4-4-4SP] rolls 3 energy! [-1 energy] JING YUAN [None] uses Normal Attack: Glistening Light [Roll: 12] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct]. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Electro). SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct][Electro][195/350HP] has taken -1.5HP damage. Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 7] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage is -2.5HP (Cryo). CAELUS [Cryo][+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 9/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP.

No mercy would be shown, his spear dragging across the boy with rapid quickness. The phantom swings back, but its finesse is pathetic in comparison. Blade meet, metal slides off itself, crashing and sparking cryo and electro. As they exchange blows, a swift strike upwards, overpowering the boy. His blade them flies downwards, slashing directly through him, the heat of the Trailblazer burning through all the ice around them.

[-2 energy] JING YUAN [Cryo] uses Elemental Skill: Rifting Zenith [+2 Hit Per Action; Total: 4/16] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Super-conduct][Electro]. Base damage is -7HP. Until the end of this round, JING YUAN’s critical hit floor for his normal attacks lowers by 2. Target is affected by Electro! Thundersoother's Heart increases damage by 1.5x!  SHADOW OF YANQING [184.5/350HP] has taken -10.5HP damage. Counter! SHADOW OF YANQING is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Rapturous Wind [Roll: 15] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage is -2.5HP (Cryo). CAELUS [Cryo][+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 10/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP.

"A cheap imitation, that's all you are. Weaker, slower, there is nothing you bring to pose a threat!" A few steps back, bracing for a strong blow, spear readying for its next strike. A battle cry, swiping fiercely through the boy without hesitation. To others, it may be cruel. To Jing Yuan, this is what's earned. Pretending to be a soldier and a swordsman earns the treatment of a soldier and a swordsman. Lightning lord follows his pursuit quickly.

JING YUAN’S LIGHTNING LORD [Hits Per Action: 4/8] uses Active (Follow-up Attack): Prana Extirpated on SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Super-conduct][Electro].  Base damage for each hit is -6HP (Electro). Prana Extirpated has a 10% chance to land a Critical Hit on every hit [Roll: 6, 3, 7, 6]. SHADOW OF YANQING [Entanglement][Super-conduct][Electro][148.5/350HP] has taken -36HP (6×1.5×4) damage.

Crashing down, the construct shows even less mercy, barraging him with strike after strike. Sparkles exude from each hit, arcing with a ferocity that had not been seen yet. The General has found his stride now, it seems.

Entanglement activates! for -2HP against SHADOW OF YANQING [146.5/350HP].  SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct][Electro] is taunted and uses Special Attack: Ballad of Formation Breaker [Roll: 9] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage is -3HP (Cryo). CAELUS [Cryo][Magma Will Stacks: 10/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP. Deals half of damage dealt -0HP (Cryo) to ALL OTHER ENEMIES. Lmao. Counter! CAELUS [Cryo] uses Enhanced Normal Attack [-6 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 4/10][Roll: 7] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct][Electro]. Hit! Base damage is -6.5HP (Pyro). Overload triggers! But there are no other enemies…lmao. SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct][140/350HP] takes -6.5HP damage.

The copy staggers once more, before an aurora of swords of cryo form, circling the party like vultures. However, they hone in on the Trailblazer and simply break upon impact, doing nothing of note.

Caelus' next strike would blow Yanqing back, though his emotions feel forced. As if this thing could only guess how one might feel in the circumstances it finds itself in. That is the only fuel Jing Yuan needs to keep fighting. It could not even feel pain, or if it could, it could not show it.

Shield from Enhanced Normal Attack is already up; it becomes the latest shield applied! Latest shield status: CAELUS [10/10HP][4-4-0SP], JING YUAN [4-4-4SP], KALLEN [4-4-1.5SP], and KOSMA [4-4-3.5SP].

A fiery, warm embrace protects them all again, unwilling to let them take any wounds that may be final.

SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct] is taunted and uses Special Attack: Ironhorn [Roll: 5] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Miss! Counter! CAELUS [Cryo] uses Normal Attack: Ice-Breaking Light [+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 5/10][Roll: 8] against SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct]. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Pyro). SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct][Pyro][138.5/350HP] takes -1.5HP damage. SHADOW OF YANQING [Super-conduct][Pyro] uses Special Attack: Qi Advance and enters Charging state.

Another strike from Yanqing, another flurry of swords, that simply miss the man he aims for. Then another strike from the volcanic spear, leaving it less affected than before. The spirit would then raise a hand before them, readying an attack he's seen before.

As the walls are sent spiraling, the ground and everything seems to change, shifting into something it is not. Walls becomes skies with darkened clouds, the arena is no longer smooth, but instead they find themselves in a sort of ruin, with mossy, old stone bricks paving the ground they stood on. The sound of rolling waves echoed, though there was no water in sight. Kneeling down, index and middle finger rub over what should have been moss, only to feel smoothness unbefitting. For as real as it looked, it was just an illusion...

Then he sees him. His student. "Yanqing!" Initially a call of concern, jogging forward. How did he get here?

YANQING [None] uses Special Attack: Swallow Return and enters the Sword Formation state, summoning 4 FLYING SWORDs. The Sword Formation state halves all incoming damage! When all 4 FLYING SWORDs are destroyed, dispels Sword Formation and takes -5HP damage. This damage cannot KO this unit.

His advance halts at the raise of a hand. Icy swords manifest, ready to strike them with efficiency and precision. A twitch. Of course, it's not him. It sought to exploit some weakness, some hesitation.

"Of course. You're not really Yanqing, are you?" No response. It just waits for his own movement. A smirk, realizing the severity of this illusion.

JING YUAN [10/10HP] rolls 5 energy!

"Then let us treat this as just another lesson, shall we?" Lightning Lord at the ready, he would open up with his usual strikes.

[-2 energy] JING YUAN [None] uses Elemental Skill: Rifting Zenith [+2 Hit Per Action; Total: 4/16] against FLYING SWORD A [None]. Base damage is -7HP (Electro).FLYING SWORD A [Electro][43/50HP] has taken -7HP damage. Deals half of damage dealt -3.5HP (Electro) to ALL OTHER ENEMIES. ALL OTHER FLYING SWORDs [Electro][46.5/50HP] have taken -3.5HP damage. SHADOW OF YANQING [Electro][348.5/350HP] is in Sword Formation state and has taken half (-1.5HP) damage. Counter! FLYING SWORD A [Electro] counterattacks with Normal Attack: Jadecarve Strike [Roll: 5] against JING YUAN. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Cryo). JING YUAN [Cryo][8.5/10HP] has taken -1.5HP damage.

This Yanqing is not familiar with Jing Yuan's movements, further cementing that it isn't anything worth holding back on. Lightning strikes one of his swords, which dishes damage back with ease. A quick slash at his side, one that Jing Yuan can shrug off. "Tch. You'll have to try harder than that. My apprentice would have been more decisive!"

[-3 energy] JING YUAN [Cryo] uses Elemental Burst: Lightbringer [+4 Hit Per Action; Total: 8/16]. Base damage is -4HP (Electro) to ALL ENEMIES.Targets are affected by Electro! Thundersoother's Heart increases damage by 1.5x!FLYING SWORD A [Electro][37/50HP] has taken -6HP (4×1.5) damage. ALL OTHER FLYING SWORDs [Electro][40.5/50HP] have taken -6HP (4×1.5) damage. SHADOW OF YANQING [Electro][345.5/350HP] is in Sword Formation state and has taken half (-3HP) damage.

Lightning Lord sweeps over again, making a spectacle of striking each sword. Though they do not seem to buckle as they normally do, they are motionless, as if waiting for an order. Yanqing was too stagnant here, too simple to be properly considered a threat.

"Caelus, this isn't our Yanqing. Don't hold back. It's a trick of whatever this place is."

Some say in ice.

"Right! I’m on it!" With a sharp nod, Kallen jumps into the fray once more, diving straight towards the icy beast that had incapacitated Caelus. Leaving behind naught but a blur of deep purple, she disappears from Jing Yuan’s side in an instant. The rhythm of battle has become almost intimately familiar—her light footsteps in tune with its pulse.

KALLEN [8/10HP][2/3SP] rolls 5 energy!

The space between Kallen and the abomination of ice shrinks rapidly. As she closes in, she readies her pistols without a second’s hesitation. Channeling her Oath, Kallen unleashes another burst of frigid energy—and sends the enemy reeling backwards as it reacts violently with the remnant electricity. The cold soothes her aches once more—reliable, dependable. Just like how she should be—

[-1 energy] KALLEN [None] uses Elemental Skill: Gloomy Dawn against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][Raven Mark Stacks: 3/3], detonating 3 Raven Marks and healing +2HP to KALLEN [10/10HP][3/3SP].

Super-conduct triggers! against ICE OUT OF SPACE.

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][46.5/130HP] has taken -4HP damage. ICE OUT OF SPACE cannot counterattack until the end of this turn!

Cautious, yet with her attention fully focused on the staggering enemy, Kallen realizes that it isn’t trying to retaliate. Seize its weakness, now! Like a predator animal sensing blood and fear, Kallen shows no mercy. Each set of brutal attacks inflames the feverish headiness of the fight—narrowing her focus further and further as the monster is stunned again and again. The sheer force of her hits grow stronger as she lands them—one of which strikes true in the monster’s weak spot.

[-1 energy] KALLEN [None] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 7; Hit!] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][42.5/130HP][+1 Raven Mark, Total Stacks: 1/3] for -4HP damage. Passive! [Roll: 1] Icarus Pinions' passive activates and deals half of damage dealt -2HP (Physical) against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][84/130HP].

[-1 energy] KALLEN [None] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 17; Critical hit!] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][35.5/130HP][+1 Raven Mark, Total Stacks: 2/3] for -7HP damage. Passive! [Roll: 2]; Icarus Pinions’ passive does not activate.

[-1 energy] KALLEN [None] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 6; Hit!] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][29.5/130HP][+1 Raven Mark, Total Stacks: 3/3] for -6HP damage. Passive! [Roll: 2]; Icarus Pinions’ passive does not activate.

[-1 energy] KALLEN [None] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 5; Hit!] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][22.5/130HP][Raven Mark Stacks: 3/3] for -7HP damage. Passive! [Roll: 1] Icarus Pinions' passive activates and deals half of damage dealt -3.5HP (Physical) against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][80.5/130HP].

Pulling the triggers of her pistols at the perfect time, Kallen backsteps as the bullets lodge themselves into the flaming beast's body. That's when she realizes that it, too, seems almost unresponsive. But unlike its companion, this monster looks focused, almost. In the heat of battle, Kallen had failed to notice— "Hey—! That one— It's up to something!"

My body hurts, he assesses. It feels like he is fine for now, but something heavy could knock him over—but he's unsure what that could mean for his allies even if he is forced to the ground. They seem to be operating in tandem, and this pain will continue to be inflicted upon them time and time again, especially now with their one mister Caelus frozen in ice.

KOSMA [5/10HP][1.5/3SP] rolls 5 energy!

[-1 energy] KOSMA [Cryo] uses Elemental Burst: The Guards’ Torch. Until the end of this player phase, KOSMA enters Daybreak Form.

Passive! KOSMA [Cryo][7/10HP] heals +2HP after using Elemental Burst.

Passive! CAELUS [Frozen][9.5/10HP] heals +1HP after using Elemental Burst.

We have to take one out or get closer, at least while I still stand. That thought brings him no joy as he feels, through the pain of his limbs, energy swelling in his body and his Vishnu genes pull over his human flesh like a cocoon. Something inside him fills with warmth and he feels less likely to fall over, but not in peak condition. In his peripheral vision, under the ice, he could swear he sees Caelus glow a similar way in a purple aurora. But it was quick, and fleeting.

He had a job to do.

[-1 energy] Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 8] against ICE OUT OF SPACE 22.5/130HP. Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical).

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct] [20.5/130HP] has taken -2HP damage.

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct] is inflicted with Rend until the end of this player phase. Total enemies inflicted with Rend is now 1.

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct] counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 12] against KOSMA [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage is -0.5HP (Cryo).  

Unable to speak or even emote, he is sure he would have roared or chirped if he could see victory in their future—but he simply focuses on their foes as he feels that previous energy gathering at his fingertips. Downwards his claws tend as the purple energy takes chunks with it, and the point-blank nature of the foes counterattacks doing damage but not more than he could handle. He pushes off to focus on Kallen's pointed foe next—

[-1 energy] Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 17] against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE 80.5/130HP. Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical).

BLAZE OUT OF SPACE 78.5/130HP has taken -2HP damage.

BLAZE OUT OF SPACE is inflicted with Rend until the end of this player phase. Total enemies inflicted with Rend is now 2.

And that foe indeed is much healthier, even if it's frozen by its own volition to attack them later, he can feel it. That heat. So close and he knows this will hurt, whatever it is, without that man donning his lance. He tends this foe too and he can see the energy leave his fingertips to inflict itself inside his foe. It does not even bat an eye at him as a small burning sensation burns away that ice for him.

[-0 energy] Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo] uses Follow-up Attack: Violation of the Dead.

Entanglement applies! against ICE OUT OF SPACE and BLAZE OUT OF SPACE afflicted with Rend. ICE OUT OF SPACE and BLAZE OUT OF SPACE afflicted with Rend are now inflicted with Entanglement. On the start of their next turn, ICE OUT OF SPACE and BLAZE OUT OF SPACE once afflicted with Rend will receive -3HP (2+1HP) damage.

Flying up, he does stretch out his wings as he feels the need to roar. To assert that he is here to take them with him, but he doesn't and he is in his right mind. He simply rains down a small array of power that seems to rattle their insides, glowing energy popping blue and purple reality bending sparks as he drops himself down once more.

[-2 energy] Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo] uses Elemental Skill: Undetermined Judgement against ICE OUT OF SPACE 20.5/130HP [Super-conduct]. Base damage is -4HP (Quantum).

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct] 20.5/130HP has taken -4HP damage.

Deals half damage at base -1HP (Quantum) to BLAZE OUT OF SPACE.

BLAZE OUT OF SPACE 78.5/130HP takes -2HP damage.

Entanglement applied before! against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE and ICE OUT OF SPACE. On the start of their next turn, BLAZE OUT OF SPACE and ICE OUT OF SPACE will receive -2HP damage.

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct] counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 9] against Daybreak Form KOSMA [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage is -0.5HP (Cryo).  

In the mouth that he had not roared from, he had coalescing a purple energy as reality bent, and surfaces of energy appeared. Like times before, he shot this energy to hit the surfaces and between their reflective surfaces he pierced his enemies through their body. Heavily piercing the foe with ice as its hide and hearing audible cracks in its defense, he made sure not to neglect his fiery enemy as he was hit again with retaliation. The ice melted again from, a weakening, warmth that surrounded his skin.

KOSMA [7/10HP][0.5/3SP] ends his turn.

His form is fading away, and he is all ready to see sparks fly, even as he turns where he landed to the man and women at his side. His voice is naturally soft, so he apologized internally Caelus might not hear him. "We're about to get hurt… Kosma. My name, if it matters."

Entanglement activates! for -5HP against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [70/130HP].  BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro] uses Special Attack: Bomb en Masse [Roll: 17 2 6 4] against ALL ALLIES. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE absorbed 4 stacks of Enkindle, boosting this attack’s base damage by 4! Base damage per hit is -6HP (Pyro). Hit! CAELUS [Pyro][5.5/10HP][0/3SP] has taken -3SP and -3HP damage. Miss! JING YUAN [Cryo] was not hit. Hit! KALLEN [Pyro][6/10HP][0/3SP] has taken -2SP and -4HP damage. Miss! KOSMA [Cryo] was not hit. Inflicts Enkindle on CAELUS and KALLEN for 2 turns. At the start of the next two turns, they will lose 1HP.

Pyro energy is drawn in from all around, manifesting out of the abyssal walls of space and infinity itself. Rippling, singing out as the very fabric of the realm was tested by the nature of its strike. The floor repeats, it sounds like drumming. There was little room for reaction, but Jing Yuan finds time. He cannot stop it, he cannot protect everyone, so instead he lunges to the one most distracted by their own introduction. "Get down, Kosma!" As the strike rains down, seeking only retribution of ash and bone.

"Kallen! Caelus!" They are unable to escape such a fate, burnt asunder, though still surviving.

 Entanglement activates! for -5HP against ICE OUT OF SPACE [9/130HP]. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro] uses Special Attack: Everwinter Rain [Roll: 15 20 16 8] against ALL ALLIES. Base damage is -1.5HP for hit and -3HP for crit (Cryo). Hit! Melt triggers! for -2HP (1.5×1.5) against CAELUS [None][3.5/10HP]. [Frozen Roll: 3] Critical hit! JING YUAN [Cryo][10/10HP][1/3SP] has taken -2SP damage (Lucky Dog’s Clover subtracts one 1 all incoming damage). [Frozen Roll: 2] Hit! Melt triggers! for -2HP (1.5×1.5) against KALLEN [Frozen][4/10HP]. [Frozen Roll: 1] Frozen triggers! against KALLEN. Until the end of their next turn, KALLEN will be unable to act. Hit! KOSMA [Cryo][6/10HP][0/3SP] has taken -0.5SP and -1HP damage. [Frozen Roll: 3] ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro] uses Normal Attack: Freeze Burst [Roll: 11] against KALLEN [Frozen]. KALLEN is frozen, so a critical hit is guaranteed! Base damage is -3HP (Cryo). KALLEN [None][1/10HP] takes -3HP damage and is no longer Frozen. Counter! KALLEN [None] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 8] against ICE OUT OF SPACE. Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical). ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro][4/130HP][Raven Mark Stacks: 3/3] has taken -5HP damage.Passive! [Roll:1] Icarus Pinions' passive activates and deals half of damage dealt -2.5HP (Physical) against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][68/130HP].

The icy one slams an arm down, crying out as if it hadn't admitted defeat. Cryo energy begins to creep across the floor, something even Jing Yuan is unable to maneuver away from. An attempt to push Kosma away yields fruitless, only able to slash through the icy blast that soon followed. It does not pierce the fiery protection of a trail blazed.

Silence, seeking to push them closer to their goal. He cannot stop simply because the beating heart of the abyss sought their blood.

JING YUAN [10/10HP][1/3SP] rolls 5 energy!

Striding across the ice, his spear repeats the melody of emptiness. "We will not yield. Even in our most trying moment, we will push forward. We will soar across the sky, just as Lan's arrow!"

[-2 energy] JING YUAN [Cryo] uses Elemental Skill: Rifting Zenith [+2 Hit Per Action; Total: 4/8] against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [None]. Base damage is -3HP (Electro). BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][65/130HP] has taken -3HP damage. Deals half of damage dealt -1.5HP (Electro) to ALL OTHER ENEMIES. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][2.5/130HP] has taken -1.5HP damage. Until the end of this round, JING YUAN’s critical hit floor for his normal attacks lowers by 2. Counter! BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [None] counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 4] against JING YUAN [Cryo]. Miss! 

The spear strikes the blazing beast, ripping through it once more to hinder its movement and weaken it for others. Thunder seeps through the icy floors, causing another yelp from the pathetic beast. An attempt to strike, to incinerate him is evaded with ease, sidestepping and raising a hand.

[-3 energy] JING YUAN [Cryo] uses Elemental Burst: Lightbringer [+3 Hit Per Action; Total: 7/8]. Base damage is -1HP (Electro) to ALL ENEMIES. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][64/130HP] has taken -1HP damage. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][1.5/130HP] has taken -1HP damage.

"You are nothing!" Lightning Lord strikes from above, plunging its spear down with ferocity, bolts striking the two. "Caelus! Do it!"

Some say in ice.

KALLEN [8/10HP][3/3SP] rolls 3 energy! KALLEN is injured by Enkindle and has taken -1SP damage.

The power of her lineage surges within her once more, cold and devastating. As she dashes towards the blaze, intent on smothering its flames, Kallen lets out a cry of triumph. Her pistols slam against it, ice patterns forming along its surface—enough to stun it that it can't move to counterattack.

[-1 energy] KALLEN [Cryo] uses Elemental Skill: Gloomy Dawn against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [None][Raven Mark Stacks: 2/3], detonating 2 Raven Marks.  BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo][101.5/130HP] has taken -4HP damage and cannot counterattack until the end of this turn!

Her protector calls out to her—and she remembers, suddenly, that she never introduced herself. Jing Yuan had said as much earlier, but—well, okay. There's no excuse. Let me give you a boost! Caelus shouts, and the meaning clicks in her mind after a brief pause. While both enemies are taunted, they might as well bring down the beast of ice first. What a genius strategist, she thinks offhandedly—sprinting towards him in a shadowy blur. As she leaps into the air, then launches herself off of Caelus' lance—Kallen finds herself grinning, too, as she soars through the air—

"It's Kallen!" She calls out as she plunges down upon the cold monstrosity. Energized by her first attack, blessed by the Kaslana Oath itself, each of her subsequent attacks land with cutting precision and brutal efficiency. As she slams her pistols into the enemy's hardened ice, she times it just right—pulling the trigger so that bullets go flying towards the other enemy, the one of fire. She dodges the ice monster's retaliations, yielding to Caelus when the beast directs its ire towards him—feeling more alive than she has in quite some time. "It's an honor to fight alongside you all!"

[-1 energy] KALLEN [Cryo] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 21] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro]. Critical hit! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro][77.5/130HP][+1 Raven Mark, Total Stacks: 3/3] has taken 4+2+2=-8HP damage. Passive! [Roll: 1] Icarus Pinion’s passive activates and deals half of damage dealt -4HP (Physical) against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo][97.5/130HP].

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro] is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 12] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit! CAELUS [8.5/10HP][3/3SP][+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 4/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP. 

[-1 energy] KALLEN [Cryo] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 18] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro]. Hit! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro][70.5/130HP][Total Stacks: 3/3] has taken 2+2+3=-7HP damage. Passive! [Roll: 1] Icarus Pinion’s passive activates and deals half of damage dealt -3.5HP (Physical) against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo][94/130HP].

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro] is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 5] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit! CAELUS [8.5/10HP][3/3SP][+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 5/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP

It's clear that Kallen's attacks have left the enemies worse for wear, even as the blazing enemy seems to recover slightly from its earlier daze. She leaps out of the way, withdrawing slightly—glancing worriedly in the young man's direction. Horns, Jing Yuan had called him. "Be careful! They might come for you again!"

Those monsters had made a point to target the poor boy. Who's to say they won't do so again?

Watching the other's take off and from his spot behind them, especially behind the man with a lance, he makes out the teamwork with his mind racing and his eyes tracing to catch it all. While he can't say they are moving faster then he could handle, he does find his eyes traveling to the older man that was standing at the ready.

... Teamwork. That'd be nice.

[-2 energy] KOSMA [Pyro] uses Elemental Skill: Undetermined Judgement against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro]. Base damage is -4HP (Quantum). Ignores SP on shielded enemies.

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro][66.5/130HP] has taken -4HP damage. Deals half of damage dealt -2HP (Quantum) to BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo].

BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo][92/130HP] has taken -2HP damage. Roll 1d2 per enemy attacked to determine if Entanglement applies. [Rolls: 2 1]

Entanglement applies! against ICE OUT OF SPACE. On the start of its next turn, ICE OUT OF SPACE will receive -2HP damage.

From behind the darker silver haired man, that won't get annoying, he could feel the energy between his fingers almost like they were an instrument far past his time here. He misses that harmonica, with its pear wood and sleek shape, and he allows that sorrow to unleash between the beam of energy that pierces the thick alien hide.

The man with a lance tanks the retaliation damage and the skidding of ice that would have been aimed at his head is nice. This form of protection is something that he had known once, but those years are gone, and so he will trust the young man this time. They have a common foe together.

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro] is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 17] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Cryo).

CAELUS [+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 6/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP.

"... You, with the lance. Incoming." It was the only warning he gave the man as he ran past, his years of training able to get to the enemy efficiently.

A swipe in the body as he weaves behind said man when the ice comes falling and hurtling his way. The ice not only breaking even melting from the intense heat of his ally, Kosma safe behind the man as he places a hand upon his shoulder.

It's quiet enough to barely be heard over the ice crashing. "... Thank you." Kevin would not thank the man, his mind thinks. Kevin would not need to use another as a shield, he knows. But he does, and these emotional people are... infectious.

[-1 energy] KOSMA [Pyro] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 4] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro]. Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical).

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro][64.5/130HP] has taken -2HP damage.

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro] is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 14] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit!

CAELUS [+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 7/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP.

Around and around they went, a dance in laymans terms as of how the two moved for now. Kosma's claws charged with power for slicing, his legs darting him back and forth with a soldiers training, and his dance behind the man.

[-1 energy] KOSMA [Pyro] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 12] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro].

Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical).

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro][62.5/130HP] has taken -2HP damage.

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro] is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 14] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit!

CAELUS [+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 8/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP.

Again, and again.

[-1 energy] KOSMA [Pyro] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 18] against TARGET NAME ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro].

Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical).

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro][60.5/130HP] has taken -2HP damage.

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Entanglement][Pyro] is taunted and counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 5] against CAELUS [Cryo]. Hit!

CAELUS [8.5/10HP][3/3SP][+1 Magma Will, Total Stacks: 9/10] reduces incoming damage by -3HP.

The dance ends when he can feel his wrist start to hurt and he is sure he steps on the other's toe, his misstep tripping him up more then the taller and heavy-weapon toting man before him. Kosma should apologize to him.

"... We're done here."

KOSMA [5/10HP][3/3SP] ends his turn.

With that, he takes off back towards the team as the foe from before is rearing to go, and almost like a storage freezer the ice turns from white to blue to purple. The gathering frost almost dangerous, Kosma gets down as he hears the first instance of the air shifting. "... Sir, get... too late."

ICE OUT OF SPACE [Pyro] uses Special Attack: Everwinter Rain [Roll: 18 JY 2 10] against CAELUS, JING YUAN, KALLEN, and KOSMA. Base damage is -1.5HP/-3HP (Cryo).

He can hear the others get away with their fleet footsteps, but the gentleman in-front of him is most unfortunate to also have to eat this wave of cold as well. The closer lad much more unfortunate then him.

Hit! KOSMA [Cryo][5/10HP][1.5/3SP] takes -1.5SP damage. [Frozen Roll: 3]

"Its dangerous again, be careful."

The words from the other man do earn a gracious nod. "A game of chess is not won without risk. We will fight, we will survive." Grasping his spear, he readies himself to lead once more.

JING YUAN [10/10HP][3/3SP] rolls 3 energy!

While has is hardly scathed, he has been much slower this time than the time before. It does not leave him much room to act, so he does what he can. His spear pirouettes betwixt dexterous digits, only to be flicked down, sparks emanating from the edge of his weapon. Spare hand reaches to the butt of the spear, drawn back to strike again.

[-2 energy] JING YUAN uses Elemental Skill: Rifting Zenith [+2 Hit Per Action; Total: 4/8] against  ICE OUT OF SPACE. Base damage is -3HP (Electro). ICE OUT OF SPACE [52/130HP] has taken -3HP damage. Deals half of damage dealt -1.5HP (Electro) to ALL OTHER ENEMIES. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [86/130HP] has taken -1.5HP damage. Until the end of this round, JING YUAN’s critical hit floor for his normal attacks lowers by 2. Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 16] against JING YUAN. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Cryo).  Lucky Dog’s Clover subtracts 1 from all incoming damage! JING YUAN [Cryo][10/10HP][2.5/3SP] has taken -0.5SP damage. [-1 energy] JING YUAN uses Normal Attack: Glistening Light [Roll: 1d20+2] against ICE OUT OF SPACE. Hit! Critical hit! Miss! Base damage is -2.5HP (Electro). ICE OUT OF SPACE [50.5/130HP] has taken -2.5HP damage. Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 6] against JING YUAN. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Cryo).  Lucky Dog’s Clover subtracts 1 from all incoming damage! JING YUAN [10/10HP][2/3SP] has taken -0.5SP damage.

The exchange is short between them, knowing when to rise above his station... or when to let another do the same. The dragon man has been consistent, striking and enduring, whereas the woman could either soar or crash.

Thunder cracks as his spear rips through the both of them, opening another weakness for him to aim for. Ice barrages him, but he steps directly through it, thanks to their frozen comrade and his own hardiness. The Fragmentum monster doesn't allow another hefty hit, instead maneuvering, only allowing him to take a poke at its torso, which is shrugs off just as easily.

Another icy blast, shielded by arms and spear. He is quite capable now, it seems.

"Kallen!" Hesitation, "And you! Now's your chance!"

Some say in ice.

KALLEN rolls 4 energy!

[-2 energy] KALLEN [None] uses Elemental Burst: Night Carnival [Rolls: 2 1].

Honing her focus, Kallen bursts forward in a blur, leaving behind trace impressions of herself—almost shadows, a gust of brutal ice. Crystalline patterns begin to form on both of their enemies, much to Kallen's surprise. She had thought, the icy-looking one might've been immune like the slime before. Good thing it isn't—she can be more useful, now. As soon as the patterns of ice begin to form, they react violently with the burning flames still clinging to the enemies, each now marked by Kallen's fury—

Melt triggers! for -1.5HP (1×1.5) against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [None][Raven Mark Stacks: 2/3][121.5/130HP] has taken -1.5HP damage.

Melt triggers! for -1.5HP (1×1.5) against ICE OUT OF SPACE. ICE OUT OF SPACE [None][Raven Mark Stacks: 1/3][118/130HP] has taken -1.5HP damage.

Kallen remembers how the fiery beast had singed the overeager boy, even in his transformed state. If it were just pain, she wouldn't mind it—but he seems to have taken on a strangeness, some kind of mark that promised to hurt them at the enemy's benefit. Or perhaps, it is merely her cowardice, or the novelty of being able to hurt it, that moves her to target the being of ice instead. Again, she unleashes a cruel chill—cutting into the core of their enemies, and follows it with a flurry of Gun Kata techniques. Her pistols feel lighter, sharper, more in tune with her body. It surprises her—how effortless and piercing it feels.

[-1 energy] KALLEN [None] uses Elemental Skill: Gloomy Dawn against ICE OUT OF SPACE [None][Raven Mark Stacks: 0/3], detonating 1 Raven Mark. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo][115/130HP] has taken -3HP damage.

[-1 energy] KALLEN [None] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 11] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo]. Hit! Damage is increased to -4HP due to Martial Artist’s Bandana (+2). ICE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo][111/130HP][+1 Raven Mark, Total Stacks: 1/3] has taken -4HP damage.

Passive! [Roll: 2]; Icarus Pinion's passive does not activate.

Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo] counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 15] against KALLEN [None]. Hit! KALLEN [Cryo][10/10HP][1.5SP] has taken -1.5SP damage.

The beast swipes toward her right as she lands her last attack. It's too late for her to dodge, and she braces for the pain of her mistake. It never comes—instead, Kallen realizes she simply feels a little lighter. Her brief confusion is stifled, and she backs away quickly. Her gaze darts toward the lance-wielder again. Is he protecting her?

Unlike his words, his spear would be more effective at breaking the ice.

JING YUAN [10/10HP][3/3SP] rolls 3 energy!

A seat on the throne, a foot in the grave, he would lunge forward, aiming directly for the light blue one, unsure of whether his spear would truly break through their skin.

[-1 energy] JING YUAN [None] uses Normal Attack: Glistening Light [Roll: 11] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Cryo]. Passive! Guaranteed critical hit against enemies affected by Cryo. Critical hit! Base damage is -5HP (Electro).  Super-conduct triggers! against ICE OUT OF SPACE. Crit floor against ICE OUT OF SPACE is lowered by 4 for the remainder of the round ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][None][106/130HP] has taken -5HP damage. Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][None] counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 7] against JING YUAN [None]. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Cryo). Lucky Dog’s Clover subtracts 1 from all incoming damage! JING YUAN [Cryo][10/10HP][2.5/3SP] has taken -0.5SP damage.

Should this offense be the necessary sacrifice to pierce through them, than they shall feast until there are no more mouths to feed. "White hair, left!" He shouts, ducking low enough to narrowly slide beside her without stepping around. Spear jabs upwards, piercing directly through its jaw, only to tug back. A riiiiiiiip echoes, lacerations forming to spew some form of dark energy. Jing Yuan doesn't relent, enduring the cold blast this time with ease.

[-2 energy] JING YUAN [Cryo] uses Elemental Skill: Rifting Zenith [+2 Hit Per Action; Total: 4/8] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][None]. Base damage is -3HP (Electro). ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro][103/130HP] has taken -3HP damage. Deals half of damage dealt -1.5HP (Electro) to BLAZE OUT OF SPACE. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][120/130HP] has taken -1.5HP damage. Until the end of this round, JING YUAN’s critical hit floor for his normal attacks lowers by 2. Counter! ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro] counterattacks with Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Roll: 12] against JING YUAN [Cryo]. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Cryo). Lucky Dog’s Clover subtracts 1 from all incoming damage! JING YUAN [Cryo][10/10HP][2/3SP] has taken -0.5SP damage. JING YUAN [10/10HP][2/3SP] ends his turn.

An arm comes before Kallen, to shield her from any currents of electricity. "Caelus! Horns, steer clear!" Turning to the woman, he goes, "Jing Yuan, by the way. You should probably back up." Not even a second to prepare as his spear arcs up from the ground, lightning seeping into fresh wounds and earning and otherworldly screech. It spreads to the fiery one, and one again, the icy blast it produces yields nothing of note.

JING YUAN’S LIGHTNING LORD [Hits Per Action: 4/8] uses Active (Follow-up Attack): Prana Extirpated [Rolls: 2 1 1 1]. Base damage for each hit is -1HP (Electro). ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro][102/130HP] has taken -1HP damage. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][119/130HP] has taken -1HP damage. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][118/130HP] has taken -1HP damage. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][117/130HP] has taken -1HP damage. For each hit, deal half of damage dealt -0.5HP (Electro) to ALL OTHER ENEMIES. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][116.5/130HP] has taken -0.5HP damage. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro][101.5/130HP] has taken -0.5HP damage.  ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro][101/130HP] has taken -0.5HP damage. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro][100.5/130HP] has taken -0.5HP damage.

It was time to see if Lightning Lord was still as ineffective as last time. With barely any time to clear, the aureate armor would answer the call to battle. The weight of the world could not bend the Lightning Lord's knees. From the sky, the armor attacks quick, surging through the arena with veiny sparks.

It seems that despite his most reliable ally being back, the enemies were quick to retaliate.

Entanglement activates! for -5HP against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [111.5/130HP]. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro] uses Normal Attack: Bellowing Inferno [Roll: 8] against KOSMA [None]. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Pyro). KOSMA [Pyro][6.5/10HP][1.5/3SP] takes -1.5SP damage. KOSMA is already inflicted with Enkindle. Counter! KOSMA [Pyro] uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 10] against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro]. Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical). BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][109.5/YHP] has taken -2HP damage. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro] uses Special Attack: Rain of Purifying Flames [Target Roll: 4, 4, 3, 2, 1][Roll: 19, 14, 19, 10, 18] against Daybreak Form KOSMA (twice), KALLEN, JING YUAN, and CAELUS. All hit! Base damage per hit is -1.5HP (Pyro).  KOSMA [Pyro][6.5/10HP][0/3SP] has taken -1.5SP damage. KOSMA [Pyro][5/10HP][0/3SP] has taken -1.5HP damage. Melt triggers! for -1.5SP and -0.5HP (1.5×1.5) against KALLEN [None][9.5/10HP][0/3SP]. Melt triggers! for -2HP (1.5×1.5), but Lucky Dog’s Clover subtracts 1 from all incoming damage to deal -1SP against JING YUAN [None][10/10HP][1/3SP]. Melt triggers! for -1.5SP and -0.5HP (1.5×1.5) against CAELUS [None][9.5/10HP][0/3SP]. CAELUS has gained 1 stack of Magma Will [Total: 2/10]. Inflicts Enkindle on KALLEN, JING YUAN, and CAELUS for 2 turns. At the start of the next two turns, they will lose 1HP. 2. Entanglement activates! for -5HP against  ICE OUT OF SPACE [95.5/130HP]. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro] uses Normal Attack: Chilling Lament [Target Roll: 3][Roll: 1d14] against KALLEN [None]. Hit! Base damage is -1.5HP (Cryo). KALLEN [Cryo][8/10HP] has taken -1.5HP damage. Counter! KALLEN [Cryo] uses Normal Attack: Twilight Nocturne [Roll: 5] against ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro]. Hit! Base damage is -2HP (Physical). Target currently has 1 Raven Mark. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro][92.5/130HP][+1 Raven Mark, Total Stacks: 2/3] has taken -3HP damage. Passive! [Roll: 1] Icarus Pinion’s passive activates and deals half of damage dealt -1.5HP (Physical) against BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][108/130HP]. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Super-conduct][Electro] uses Special Attack: Frosty Absorption! ICE OUT OF SPACE enters the Freezing Point state! Special Attack: Everwinter Rain can be used in subsequent attacks.

This was all the creatures knew. A burst of fire, ashes raining down, decorating all four of them with a fierce heat. Twinging at his own uniform, the shield from his ally, one he was familiar with, would protect him. Yet even still, he felt less pain, as if something had given him a strength deeper. With the glory comes the fall.

Another barrage of ice, more content to fight back than to just lay down enduring. "Good job, you both! Whatever your names are..." He calls out to try and encourage them.

"Eyes up, we aren't done yet!"

JING YUAN [10/10HP][1/3SP] rolls 3 energy! JING YUAN [10/10HP][0/3SP] is injured by Enkindle and has taken -1SP damage. [-3 energy]JING YUAN [None] uses Elemental Burst: Lightbringer [+3 Hit Per Action; Total: 5/8]. Base damage is -1HP (Electro) to ALL ENEMIES. BLAZE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][107/130HP] has taken -1HP damage. ICE OUT OF SPACE [Electro][91.5/130HP] has taken -1HP damage. JING YUAN [10/10HP] ends his turn.

Jing Yuan would raise his spear above his right shoulder, The Lightning Lord mimicking each movement time time. His true control shows, his own spear screeching across the ground, Lightning Lord follows, ripping through blue marble once again. Carnage as both enemies are impacted, left to recoil from such an attack.

Kallen is Frozen and cannot act. Kallen will unfreeze on her next turn.

But it's no use. The shimmering crackles of ice still encase her—as well as her other two companions—even as she manages, just barely, to regain some mobility in her fingertips.

Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][9.5/10SP] attacks with Ice Shards. Targets up to three enemies. [Roll: 4, 3, 3]. Targets: Kosma, Kallen, Kallen. [Roll: 1, 6, 13] Miss! Hit! Hit! -1HP (Cryo) per hit. Kosma [2.5/10 HP], Kallen [0/10HP].

The Cryo slime attacks again, unleashing another barrage of ice shards. Relief, a premature feeling, floods through Kallen as she watches a shard miss the young man among her companions—the feeling persists in her last moments of consciousness. One after another, two shards strike against her half-frostbitten form—

Kallen has been Defeated.

Kosma will unfreeze on his next turn.

The cold he could embrace in his off hours with a form of glee, a form of retreat that tempers the crawl and emboldened twist of his genes. And yet it is that same cold that seems to take his body like the senior before him as he sees three of them, himself included, frost over. This shouldn't happen, he's been in the reaches of space and had not been long there but he had not been affected so harshly.

This was almost supernatural, but nothing made sense here to him. Nor why that dastardly jiggly foe in a crystal casing could stump them so. But he can't blame this creature for trying to survive, he had been...

... well, he can't blame survival instinct any more than he can curse his terrible performance. He was a soldier fighting the equivalent of wildlife.

Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][9.5/10SP] attacks with Ice Shards. Targets up to three enemies. [Roll: 4, 3, 3]. Targets: Kosma, Kallen, Kallen. [Roll: 1, 6, 13] Miss! Hit! Hit! -1HP (Cryo) per hit. Kosma [2.5/10 HP], Kallen [0/10HP]. Kallen has been Defeated.

Counter! Kosma [2.5/10HP] counters Large Cryo Slime and uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 8, -1HP].

It was when he was broken from his frosty spell and given the freedom to move that he dropped low to dodge the incoming icicle that was launched from the frosty hide of the jiggly fauna. He knew the gentlewoman in purple at his side was not so lucky as an audible crash is heard, but he has to move now.

He launched himself at the fauna with fervour. He turns his hand upwards to face his claws outwards, and from under his nails he takes chunks of its hide with mighty swings. He can already feel the faint tells of pain slither up, he wasn't long for known consciousness...

Hydro Mimic Frog uses Torrential Waves [roll: 5] on Kosma. Hit! -1.5HP. Kosma [1/10HP].

Counter! Kosma [1/10HP] counters Hydro Mimic Frog and uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [Roll: 3, -1HP]

And now with one of those fake animals, they kick up a storm as he tries to pull himself away from its wading form as it kicks up water, but he is not so lucky to get away. He is still on his feet, barely he notes, as he blacks out for a microsecond. While the water passes over and around him, he redirects his claws to swipe at this foe too. It's form bounces but it still recoils under his wild, final swings.

Large Electro Slime [6/20HP] attacks Kosma with Discharge. [Roll: 11] Hit! -1HP. Kosma [0/10HP]. -0.5 to all enemies. Jing Yuan [5.5/10HP]. Caelus [5/10HP].

Kosma has been Defeated.

He would have continued his savage swings had he not felt the tells of whatever amount of volts shock him. Not only him, from the noises he hears, but the pain that hits his spine and causes his body to lock up doesn't afford him grace to check.

He falls forward, his body feeling like it spread fire across its skin, the world gone to him before he even hits the ground. A worthless monster, unable to do the one... thing he... was...

It hurts- everything hurts.. and he can't even whine out the pain. Hit after hit Caelus takes for his team, his body stings and aches. But he knows he'd rather take it for the team than to let these strangers put themselves at risk, especially when they already looked pretty worse-for-wear. It's fine, he will put up with it. It's his role as a tank, as a Nameless, as the hero of multiple worlds and counting- for his pride as the Galactic Baseballer.

Caelus unfreezes, and rolls 4 energy.

He's just glad that he didn't have to shatter the ice prison to get free, as it seemed to wear off on it's own- thank the stars. He had been running when he had been initially been frozen, and that momentum was obviously lost, but now that he's thawed and still cold as can be, the silver stumbles forward. He collapses to his knees, taking in ragged breaths at he tries to fight down the quiet hissing as the pain from the jabs and smacks returns twice over.

Caelus needs a moment to collect himself, also because his Stellaron-superheated body did not appreciate that ice cold cocoon. Sure, Caelus absolutely loves being cold or the snow and whatnot- but that was an entirely different and terrifying experience.

He knows there is still a fight going on, as he can hear the creatures still roaming around, so he has to pull whatever he can of himself together- and now. Yet it gets so much harder when amber eyes finally scan his surroundings to meet such a horrid sight..

It doesn't matter that he didn't know them, that he hadn't even gotten the chance to get their names. They were allies in this accursed realm, and he was supposed to protect those around him. So to see, despite all the beatings he had taken to keep them safe, that the two he had not known sprawled across the floor as their bodies lay limp- it's too much.

❛ No... no-- no no no please-- ❜

Caelus drags his stiff body across the ground, trying to close the distance between him and the unconscious companion closest to him. It's a rather pathetic sight as the Nameless struggles to scoot himself on his knees, still unable to stand just yet.

Sadly, the poor boy only moves himself a a short distance before he hears some creatures moving towards him. Caelus has to tear his gaze away from his companion as he hastily shuffles onto his feet, very unsteady as he uses the Flaming Lance to hold himself upright, almost using it like a cane for a moment.

Caelus casts Enhanced Normal Attack: Ice-Breaking Light [-4 Magma Will ; 1/4 (8max); roll: 18] on Large Cryo Slime. Hit! -2.5HP. Melt triggers! -2.5x1.5 = -3.5HP to Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][5.5SP]. Half damage to all other enemies. Base is -1.5HP. Vaporize triggers!  -1.5x1.5 = -2HP to Hydro Mimic Frog [5.5/28HP] -1.5HP to Large Electro Slime [4.5/20HP] Overload triggers! Half damage to all other enemies. Large Cryo Slime reduced incoming Overload damage to 0 HP. -0.5HP to Hydro Mimic Frog [5/28HP].

The creature tries to pull a similar move that the purple varient had earlier, and Caelus is having none of it. With speed that slightly surprises himself give how stiff he still feels, and how exhausted he is becoming after all those hits, the Nameless sidesteps the creature before immediately plunging the Flaming Lance into the hard exterior, chipping further away at it.

The rising flames surround him reach outwards to attack the other creatures still nearby, though not as intensely as the one currently under his weapon. But it's not enough.. he needs more. He needs these things to suffer, even if subconsciously he knows these creatures are likely just trying to defend themselves, or are put up to this against their will.

B̸u̵r̵n̶ ̷i̶t̷ ̷a̸l̴l̵ ̴d̶o̸w̸n̸!̴

Caelus uses War-Flaming Lance [-3 energy] on All enemies. Next Normal Attack will be Enhanced and cost no Magma Will stacks. Base damage is -1HP. Melt triggers! -1x1.5 = -1.5HP to Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][4SP]. Vaporize triggers!  -1x1.5 = -1.5HP to Hydro Mimic Frog [3.5/28HP] -1HP to Large Electro Slime [3.5/20HP] Overload triggers! Half damage to all other enemies. Large Cryo Slime reduced incoming Overload damage to 0 HP. -0.5HP to Hydro Mimic Frog [3/28HP].

In a matter of a second, Caelus dashes through the three remaining creatures, not even shouting his ult voice line. Sparks fly everywhere and steam fills the air near the monsters. It's not enough, I̴t̷'̵s̶ ̵n̵o̵t̸ ̶e̶n̴o̴u̵g̶h̵!̴

Caelus casts Enhanced Normal Attack: Ice-Breaking Light [-0 Magma Will (Free from War-Flaming Lance) ; 1/4 (8max); roll: 1] on Large Cryo Slime. Miss!Caelus uses Normal Attack: Ice-Breaking Light [-1 energy; +1 Magma Will ; 2/4 (max 8); roll: 2] on Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][4SP]. Miss!

Caelus tries.. he tries so hard- he needs to avenge his fallen allies that he hadn't even been able to bond with. He needs to make sure their sacrifices weren't in vain. He needs to make sure the General stays alive- the white haired man had an entire populous to manage and care for.. there's no way he could let him fall here in some pocket dimension in who-knows-where. Caelus has to at least protect Jing Yuan- please at least allow him to protect the person he does know and cares for. Please-

Even as his body is covered in flames, Caelus continues to stumble over his over feet, repeatedly missing everything in front of him with the flames or his lance. Perhaps it was his clouded vision, tears streaming down his face as he grunts and yells with each swing making him miss his mark. Perhaps it was the jolts of pain running up and down his limbs that made his movements unable to connect. Perhaps it was just Caelus' own inability to do his job that made him miss, time and time again- a sad excuse of a Hero.

❛ RrraaaAAAAAAAAAAAH! ❜

The spacious walls repeat each blow between Caelus and his foes. It sounds like drumming, echoing the song of despondency. "Just wait for me, okay? You'll be alright."

Quick to step towards the dragon, the same treatment is given. His spear is not forgotten, but given the same disrespect in favor of the other man. Fingers find another pulse, and the gentle flutter of life. "I'll be back. Stay with us, you aren't alone." But he could not just abandon that which led their fight.

Jing Yuan [5.5/10HP] rolls 5 energy!

"Trailblazer. Steer clear! We cannot fail now!" As Lightning Lord surged forth again, a hand would rise, dragging the spear it wields across the deep blue ocean of marble. It drags through the spacious walls, held behind as it aims.

Jing Yuan uses Elemental Burst: Lightbringer [-3 energy] on All enemies. -1HP (Electro) Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][3.5SP].  Hydro Mimic Frog [2/28HP]. Large Electro Slime [3.5/20HP]. Super-conduct triggers! to Large Cryo Slime. Electro-charged triggers! -0HP to all enemies affected by hydro. Lmao.Jing Yuan uses Elemental Skill: Rifting Zenith [-2 energy] on Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][3.5SP]. -1 HP.  Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][3SP]

Spear gripped with desperation that it could all end here, where the arrow of The Hunt could not reach him. This was what ran through his veins. There is nothing more that can be taken by these creatures, nothing but the man stepping out of the way. "Let us finish what we have begun!" Lightning Lord lets loose the spear, cutting into the ceiling before crashing down on all three of the enemies. For all that he has had to fight, he has never met such a cute yet durable creature.

A step forward, spear ripping across the three of them. He is too quick for the creatures to think of attacking. Electricity sparks out, drawing in another crescendo from the Lightning Lord.

Lightning Lord (6/6 Hits Per Action) uses Prana Extirpated. Does 1 damage to target and half of all damage dealt to all targets. Roll 6d3 to target Frog, Large Cryo Slime, Large Electro Slime. [Roll: 3, 1, 2, 2, 1, 1] -0HP Large Electro Slime [3.5/20HP] -1HP Hydro Mimic Frog [0/28HP]. Deals half of damage dealt to all enemies. -0.5 HP Large Electro Slime [3/20HP] Hydro Mimic Frog has been Defeated. That’s why yo mama dead. 💥 -0.5HP Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][2.5/10SP] -0.5HP Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][2/10SP] -1HP Hydro Mimic Frog [-1/28HP]. Dead as hell. 💥 -1HP Hydro Mimic Frog [-2/28HP]. What shoes she got on in her casket? 💥

Kosma [7.5/10HP] rolls 3 energy!

Kosma uses Elemental Skill: Undetermined Judgement [-2 energy] to attack Hydro Mimic Mallard [5.5/28HP]. -3HP [2+1] (Quantum) to Hydro Mimic Mallard [2.5/28HP].

He doesn't feel enough ferocity at his core to pull his skin back like before, but he knows enough of that line of power to trace it across his fingers. The darkened skin and shaped cartilage that forms his hands, five-fingered and no webbing to be seen, coalescing what would burn his throat any other day. But here, it didn't hurt as much, and he's unsure it would do as much as he remembers...

But he casts that energy between two sections of space, above and below all foes while sitting heavy under the mallard shaped water creature. Between the many false surfaces, a purple beam of all things wrong plunged between them like a laser and scoring all of his foes. Even just a little.

Elemental Skill triggers -1.5HP (Quantum) to all foes.

Hydro Mimic Crab [10.5/28HP], Hydro Mimic Crane [6.5/21HP], Hydro Mimic Frog [17.5/28HP], Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP] [3.5/10SP; half damage], Large Electro Slime [9/20HP].

Two in particular linger with a static blue aura, a sizzle around their frame as the energy of all things wrong burns their cores.

Hydro Mimic Mallard, Hydro Mimic Crane are inflicted with Entanglement.

That mallard creature was a nuisance and he was sure it would be best to be disposed of before the young woman's freezing technique no longer holds. With his hand of cartilage he reaches forward with a hearty jog, turning his claws upward in a ready strike, as he reels back—

Kosma uses Normal Attack: Scavenger's Rejection [-1 energy; roll: 16] on Hydro Mimic Mallard [2.5/28HP]. Shatter triggered! Critical hit! -2HP to Hydro Mimic Mallard [0.5/28HP].

Hydro Mimic Mallard is no longer Frozen.

Kosma ends [7.5/10HP] his turn.

Kosma is hit by Vortex! [Roll: 20. -2HP, 5.5/10HP]

—to utterly shatter the crystal surface of the creature. If it lets out a cry upon its newfound freedom he would not be able to tell as a wave of water bombarded him. Something animalistic in his brain growls, digging in his heels so he isn't sent flying, as his claws came up again to claw at this creature again.

"You  won't  escape  me." He feels himself with malice, unsure of where it comes from at this time, but he just knows it works.

Counter! Kosma [5.5/10HP] counters Hydro Mimic Mallard [0.5/28HP] with Normal Attack: Scavenger’s Rejection [Roll: 18]. Hit! For -1HP (Physical). Hydro Mimic Mallard [-0.5/28HP].

Hydro Mimic Mallard is now Unconscious.

Hydro Mimic Mallard’s Vortex dissipates.

The waves subsided and his foe had collapsed to a puddle of sentient, unmoving, goo but Kosma was too busy panting. His stomach in particular hurt from taking the harshest of the wave while his legs are used to such rough treatment. But for how long in this strange place?

"... Take them out, they're no toys."

"Take them out"..? Well, if you insist. But first-

Caelus rolls 5 energy. (2 energy) Caelus uses Elemental Skill: Ever-Burning Amber and gains +1 Magma Will stack for a current total of 4/4 stacks. Enhanced Normal Attack now available. Roll 1. Successfully taunts all enemies and reduces damage by 1 until end of the round.

Gotta make sure he protects his allies, right? The Nameless had seen that one lass just.. taking more hits that she should have. Or, more than Caelus wishes she had. It was his job to be a tank, was it not?

He decides it'd be better for him to go on the offensive as well, that way if something hits him, well- he can hit right back. Caelus rushes right at the purple creature to stab at it with his Flaming Lance. Perhaps a little too eager to provide assistance, Caelus just completely whiffs his attack, not even remotely close to injuring the blob as it bounces out of the way. It even returns the favor by attempting to counterattack Caelus. Unfortunately for this lil blob, Caelus had been working on his speed stat. Caelus easily side steps the almost flying slime as it aimed to bounce directly on him.

Caelus uses Normal Attack: Ice-Breaking Light on Electro Slime. Roll 1. Miss. Electro slime counters. Roll 1. Also a miss. Glad we had this eventful chat.

A little annoyed at the miss, Caelus feels the flames crawling up his arms as his hand grips at his lance just a bit tighter. Instead of making another attempt to go for the blob, Caelus turns to see the General having some.. complications with an ice looking form of the same creature he had just gone after. Being the good ally he is, Caelus quickly moves himself to Jing Yuan's side before smacking a water frog, and with a little extra oomph.

Caelus uses Enhanced Attack [-4 Magma] on HYDRO MIMIC FROG. Roll 20. CRIT! -3HP + 1 x 1.5 = 6HP [11.5/28] Hits all other enemies half damage. Overload triggers for half that damage. Vaporize and Melt trigger. HYDRO MIMIC FROG counters.

A small part of him enjoys in a slightly sadistic fashion seeing a good amount of injury be placed on all these enemies. Though sadly it looks more just like steam, he doesn't get to enjoy it as much. Even their slight disfigurement of the water practically reshapes itself. That's okay. He did his damage.

And he's going to do it again- especially since his little purple friend has come for another round. Or.. he would do it again, yet as soon as Caelus looks away he feels a sharp ice shard plunge itself into his back. Thankfully with his Preservation powers, it doesn't necessarily hurt- but he is now stuck in place, the water that he was once drenched in now solidifying as it leaves him in a frozen state.

LARGE CYRO SLIME's shield has been broken. Special Attack: Regeneration triggers, attacking all enemies. Caelus and Kosma become frozen, unable to act next turn. Caelus

Well.. so much for being the DPS Sustain hero.

Hydro Mimic Crab uses Bubble Spray [roll: 20]. Critical hit! -2HP (Hydro) to Jing Yuan [6/10HP], Kallen [1/10HP], and Kosma [2.5/10HP], and -1HP (Hydro; -2+1=-1 reduction from Ever-Burning Amber) to Caelus [7.5/10]. Caelus gains 1 Magma Will [4/4 (max 8)]. Frozen triggers! against Kallen. Kallen cannot act during the next turn. Large Cryo Slime is taunted! Large Cryo Slime tries to use Jumping Slam on Caelus [7.5/10], but the Cryo Shield is broken! Large Cryo Slime takes no action.Hydro Mimic Crane is afflicted with Entanglement, which activates! -2 HP. [-1.5/28HP] Hydro Mimic Frog is taunted! Hydro Mimic Frog uses Torrential Waves [roll: 20] on Caelus. Critical hit! -2HP (Hydro; -3+1=-2 reduction from Ever-Burning Amber) to Caelus [5.5/10]. Caelus gains 1 Magma Will [5/4 (max 8)]. Caelus is Frozen and cannot counterattack. Large Electro Slime finds no enemies with Hydro applied. Large Electro Slime takes no action.

It seems that there is nothing to be done. Caelus is left to endure, though that is something he's quite talented at. The man receives attack after attack, and though he cannot move, he is still standing. The other two, worse off, brought to their knees and recoiling, are powerless as the wave of water crashes into them. Still, the endure.

He cries out, held up only by his spear. Through blurred vision, all the man can do is act. Trying to strategize was meaningless. Lightning Lord could do nothing to these foes. Perhaps some kind of force that he could not control was weakening him? Surely that was it. This was a pathetic display out of him. The frigid bitterness biting at him only reminds him of his master. Some days it felt as if her own words were harsher than her strikes. To break through it all was never easy. Stars collide and comrades fall, but the Luofu was not carved on the backs of men so weak.

All he can do is fight.

Jing Yuan [6/10HP] rolls 4 energy!

Led by instinct, this form of Jing Yuan was not one many saw. Even in the most trying of bouts, he would persist, fight and lead. Not here.

Jing Yuan uses Normal Attack: Glistening Light [-1 energy; roll: 1] on Hydro Mimic Crab [4.5/28HP]. Miss!

Attack holds the same fury as his master during their final battle. When all was lost and there was no reason to persist, Jingliu fell. He could not do the same. He is hasty, letting his spear crash down as his foot slide, setting his position off. Still, he does not dwell.

Jing Yuan uses Normal Attack: Glistening Light [-1 energy; roll: 6] on Hydro Mimic Crab [4.5/28HP]. Hit! -1.5HP (Electro) to Hydro Mimic Crab [3/28HP]  Electro-charged triggers! -0.5HP to all enemies affected by hydro. Hydro Mimic Frog [9.5/28]. Jing Yuan uses Normal Attack: Glistening Light [-1 energy; roll: 12] on Hydro Mimic Crab [4.5/28HP]. Hit! -1.5HP (Electro) to Hydro Mimic Crab [1.5/28HP] Electro-charged triggers! -0.5HP to all enemies affected by hydro. Hydro Mimic Frog [9/28]. Jing Yuan uses Normal Attack: Glistening Light [-1 energy; roll: 12] on Hydro Mimic Crab [1.5/28HP]. Hit! -1.5HP (Electro) to Hydro Mimic Crab [0/28HP]Electro-charged triggers! -0.5HP to all enemies affected by hydro. Hydro Mimic Frog [8.5/28].

The next three attacks do not find the floor. Instead, cleaving through this damned creature of water. Each slash arcs lightning between it and the other. The crab is barraged, split in half, then half again, and then again. In his rage, he slashes again, and again, and again, until the water simply cascades across his boots, unable to reform. A deep breath, Lightning Lord summons again.

Perhaps this time it may be better?

Lightning Lord (2/6 Hits Per Action) uses Prana Extirpated. Does 1 damage to target and half of all damage dealt to all targets. Roll 2d3 to target Frog, Cryo Slime, Electro Slime. [Roll: 2, 3] -0.5HP (Electro) to Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][9.5/10SP] Super-conduct triggers! to Large Cryo Slime. Crit floor against Large Electro Cryo is lowered by 4 for the remainder of the round. -0HP (Electro) to Large Electro Slime [6/20HP]

Caelus wonders how he always finds himself in these situations. Is it because he's a Nameless? Is that all he's destined to do now, fight random mobs with people he either doesn't know or has already made bonds with? Is it because of Elios' script?

No. No time to think about that now. The lad is still a little tired from having startled himself awake, but he manages to awkwardly get himself standing upright. With a quick scan of the foes that Jing Yuan and his other companion have engaged with, Caelus almost smirks to himself as he summons his trusted Lance of Preservation. Always make sure to have the right Lightcone and Path equipped (and relics but that's for another story line)!

Caelus rolls 3 energy [3 energy] Caelus uses War-Flaming Lance on All enemies. Next Normal Attack will be Enhanced and cost no Magma Will stacks.

❛ Flaming Lance--- FORWARD! ❜

What was he supposed to do? NOT say his catchphrase? The audacity- Surprisingly nimble steps aid the silver in his rush through the enemies he could see, making sure each and every one had be hit by his burst.

He loves the way the creatures steam from his attack, even if it had only done a little bit damage, seemingly, to each of them. Especially once he smacks the little purple blob and it sparks out, adding another bit of recoil to hurt all the other enemies for another instance of damage.

Vaporize triggers! -1.5HP HYDRO MIMIC MALLAD [24/28 HP] Vaporize triggers! -1.5HP HYDRO MIMIC CRAB [24.5/28 HP] Vaporize triggers! -1.5HP HYDRO MIMIC CRANE [17/21 HP] Vaporize triggers! -1.5HP HYDRO MIMIC FROG [24/28 HP] Melt triggers! -1.5SP LARGE CRYO SLIME [20/20 HP][7/10 SP] -1HP LARGE ELECTRO SLIME [19/20 HP] Overload triggers! -.5HP to all enemies! HYDRO MIMIC MALLAD [23.5/28 HP] HYDRO MIMIC CRAB [24/28 HP] HYDRO MIMIC CRANE [16.5/21 HP] HYDRO MIMIC FROG [23.5/28 HP] LARGE CRYO SLIME [20/20 HP][6.5/10 SP]

❛ Not too shabby, if I do say so myself. ❜

Caelus grins as he speaks with mock-confidence. Maybe the stranger was right, something didn't feel right.. Sure, Caelus might just not know these enemies and how tough they are and what their exo-toughness was, but that seemed.. a little too tanky (and that was HIS job) for, assuming, common low leveled enemies.

HYDRO MIMIC MALLAD initiates Vortex. [Roll 14] HIT! -1HP [+1 Magma Will ; 1/4 (8Max)] Caelus 9/10HP - Hydro Status Effect

Perhaps he had been a little too invested in the mysterious creatures, as he gets hit with a wave of water as he isn't paying much attention to the rest of his surroundings. It hurt too- nothing insane or that local tank legend can't handle, but it did sting a good bit.

Just what in the world are these aquatic things? Man, now he's all wet and his clothes are soaked- yuk.

What Kallen notices first—is the sickly dampness that clings to her like guilt. Then, the weight of her pistols in her hands—and her outfit, the one she wore when she still played pretend—when she imagined she could change things. And finally, the fact that she is not alone. The luring ache she felt in the staircase has yielded to some new, indiscernible emotion. She doesn't bother to introduce herself. Her three companions all act faster than she does. As she watches in awe, each one of them performs the strange and impossible. One summons a towering spirit. Another transforms into a fearsome beast. The third rushes through their enemies in a blaze. The words of the Celestial Immortal reappear in Kallen's mind, like instinct—What is it that you fight to protect? Regret, disappointment, detachment—they all melt away.

Kallen [10/10HP] rolls 5 energy!

"Coming in!" Kallen shouts, darting towards their enemies in a blur. As she closes in on them, the sight of the four watery forms gives her an idea. For once, she actually feels good about it.

Kallen uses Night Carnival [-2 energy] on all enemies.

She adjusts last minute and readies her pistols—unleashing a flurry of attacks. In that moment, she is pure shadow—so fast as to almost leave behind afterimages of herself. The power of the Kaslana bloodline surges within her, inflicting a frigid chill upon the strange creatures.

-1HP (Cryo). No effect on Large Cryo Slime. Hydro Mimic Mallard [16/28HP; roll: 2 Raven Mark], Hydro Mimic Crab [19.5/28HP; 3 Raven Mark], Hydro Mimic Crane [12.5/21HP; 2 Raven Mark], Hydro Mimic Frog [20.5/28HP; 1 Raven Mark], Large Electro Slime [16.5/20HP; 3 Raven Mark].

Frozen triggers! to all enemies affected by Hydro. Super-conduct triggers! to Large Electro Slime.

Immediately, the water mimics succumb to the cold—their bodies suddenly frozen solid. "Yes! It worked!" Kallen cheers, before realizing—she spoke out loud. This is no time to get embarrassed, though, so she pretends not to have realized. As expected, the large icy blob—of slime?—looks unaffected, but the other blob—purple and sizzling—looks a little dazed. "The purple one's weakened!" A perfect target, then, while the four are still frozen. She quickly closes the gap between the purple slime and herself, effortlessly seizing the opportunity with a perfect execution of a Kaslana Gun Kata sequence. The blob creature reacts much faster than she expects, and retaliates as soon as she lands her attack.

Kallen uses Twilight Nocturne [-1 energy; roll: 20] on Large Electro Slime [16.5/20HP]. Critical hit! -3HP to Large Electro Slime [13.5/20HP].

Counter! Large Electro Slime [13.5/20HP] counters Kallen [10/10HP] with Bounce [roll: 4] for -1.5HP.

Kallen curses under her breath, wincing as a jolt of electricity courses through her body. Resolute, she remains in melee range, and attempts a second sequence of her Gun Kata. As if enraged or indignant or both, the purple slime retaliates with renewed ferocity—and the second hit hurts far more than the first. She leaps backwards, staggering a little as she tries to recollect herself.

Kallen uses Twilight Nocturne [-1 energy; roll: 14] on Large Electro Slime [13.5/20HP]. -1.5HP to Large Electro Slime [12/20HP].

Counter! Large Electro Slime [12/20HP] counters Kallen [8.5/10HP] with Bounce [roll: 20]. Critical hit! for -3 HP.

Maybe, Kallen should try a different strategy. Her body hurts a lot more than it should—how badly can a slime injure someone, anyway? Still, retreating is not an option. She grits her teeth and redirects her attention to the frozen crab. When Jing Yuan—was that his name?—had attacked it, did it try to attack back? She's willing to risk it. Channeling her energy toward the crab, Kallen leaps towards it—her aches briefly soothed by the icy aura emanating from its stagnant form.

Kallen uses Gloomy Dawn [-1 energy] on Hydro Mimic Crab [19.5/28 HP], detonating 3 stacks of Raven Mark. -2HP (Cryo) to Hydro Mimic Crab [17.5/28HP], +1HP to Kallen [6.5/10HP].

Hydro Mimic Mallard [16.5/28HP] is Frozen and cannot initiate Vortex.

Kallen braces for another wave of water like the one that had caught Caelus off-guard, but it doesn't come. Is it controlled by one of the frozen creatures? She can't remember which one had summoned it in the first place. "I'll try to freeze them as much as I can!"

Lightning Lord would spark, flourishing its spear to crash down. Surely this would provide help.

Lightning Lord (6/6 Hits Per Action) uses Prana Extirpated. Does 1 damage to target and half of all damage dealt to all targets. Roll 6d6 to target Mallard, Crab, Crane, Frog, Cryo Slime, Electro Slime. [Roll: 5, 6, 6, 6, 5, 5] -0.5HP Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][5.5/10SP] -0HP Large Electro Slime [13.5/20HP] -0HP Large Electro Slime [13.5/20HP] -0HP Large Electro Slime [13.5/20HP] -0.5HP Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][5/10SP] -0.5HP Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][4.5/10SP]

Smoke and mirrors, all flash and no bang. Lightning Lord doesn't seem to affect the purple slime, and the icy one seems to crackle more, but ultimately shrugs it off. Clearing his throat, he offers, "Well that was anti-climatic." At the very least, he's doing better off than some of the others he finds himself in the company of.

Most enemies are frozen, like statues in various poses, waiting to move once they shattered. How sorry a sight. His eyes glance between the dragon, the woman, and Caelus. She she calls out, he offers, "Good idea! Keep them from moving and we can continue to chip through them."

1. Hydro Mimic Mallard is Frozen and cannot act. Entanglement activates! -3 HP. [13.5/28HP] 2. Hydro Mimic Crab is Frozen and cannot act. Entanglement activates! -3 HP. [13.5/28HP] 3. Large Cryo Slime [20/20HP][4.5/10SP] attacks with Ice Shards. Targets up to three enemies. [Roll: 3, 3, 2]. Targets: Kallen, Kallen, Jing Yuan. [Roll: 8, 17, 4] Hit! Critical Hit! Hit! Kallen [3.5/10HP], Jing Yuan [8/10HP].  Super-conduct triggers! against Kallen. Crit floor against Kallen is lowered by 4 for the remainder of the round. Frozen triggers! against Jing Yuan. Jing Yuan cannot act during the next turn. 4. Hydro Mimic Crane is Frozen and cannot act. Entanglement activates! -3 HP. [9.5/21] 5. Hydro Mimic Frog is Frozen and cannot act. 6. Large Electro Slime [13.5/20HP] attacks Caelus with Discharge. [Roll: 6] Hit! -1HP. Deals half of damage dealt to all enemies. -0.5 HP. Caelus: [8/10HP][+1 Magma Will ; 2/4 (8Max)], Kallen: [3/10HP], Jing Yuan: [7.5/10HP], Kosma: [7/10HP]. Caelus counters Large Electro Slime. [Roll 16+4 ; 20] Critical Hit! -3HP Large Electro Slime [10.5/20 HP] Overload triggers! -1.5HP to all enemies. Hydro Mimic Mallard [12/28 HP], Hydro Mimic Crab [12/28 HP], Hydro Mimic Crane [8/21 HP], Hydro Mimic Frog [19/28 HP], Large Cryo Slime halves damage [20/20 HP][4/10 SP], Caelus [+1 Magma Will ; 3/4 (8max)] Electro-charged triggers! -0HP to all enemies affected by hydro. Lmao.

The slimes are the only ones who can find it in them to retaliate. He does not know what comes next. Several spikes of ice shoot out, and before he can reach the woman it also targets, he's pierced by a stray spike. "Wa-" is all he can say, unable to warn her of what is coming. His spear hits the ground with a clank, finding himself frozen and shivering. He is conscious, able to perceive the strikes that they all take. Electricity surges through iced veins, and he cannot flinch. Not even a grunt.

Others react and are experience the voltage of these slimes, and he witnesses hits slowly coming more carnal. Aside from the current predicament, he is well off. They are not, they've endured more attacks, come undone quicker than him.

"Caelus... and you both." Hesitant, a rather curious brow raises. But it would seem they don't have a lot of time. In just another moment, seemingly out of the air, enemies manifest, creatures of water and ice and electricity.

"Ah," so some things never change. Readying his own Guan Dao, he glances to his allies. "I don't suppose we've got time for a proper introduction. You can call me Jing Yuan, and if you ever need assistance, just call. Ready yourselves, we aren't safe."

Jing Yuan 10/10HP rolls 5 energy

Without pause, Lightning Lord seems to manifest, crackling energy seeping from each crevice and chink of its decorated armor. "I'll take the lead!"

[3 energy] Jing Yuan uses Lightbringer on All enemies. -1HP. Hydro Mimic Mallard 27/28HP, Hydro Mimic Crab 27/28HP, Hydro Mimic Crane 20/21HP, Hydro Mimic Frog 27/28HP, Large Cryo Slime 20/20 HP 9.5/10 SP, Large Electro Slime, 20/20 HP. [2 energy] Jing Yuan uses Rifting Zenith on Hydro Mimic Crab 27/28. -1HP to Hydro Mimic Crab. -0.5 HP to all enemies. Hydro Mimic Mallard 26.5/28HP, Hydro Mimic Crab 26/28HP, Hydro Mimic Crane 19.5/21HP, Hydro Mimic Frog 26.5/28HP, Large Cryo Slime 20/20 HP 9.5/10 SP, Large Electro Slime, 20/20 HP.

In but a moment, the Lightning Lord sweeps forward, bullying through each creature to seemingly very little effect. Despite a clean hit, they surge with his energy, spreading it amongst themselves with no reaction to it. He does not seem to stagger though, instead winding his own weapon back. Blade screeching across the slate they stood upon, electricity sings from metal, striking and damaging across all enemies. The slime looking things don't seem to react, but the creatures of water stutter, only to reform and roar out.

"I seem to be a bit rusty..." He offers, his spear still readied.