and on the eighth day .

once again , another day helping out in places where he can -- something that's become something of a rather enjoyable task for him , day by day . . . although it wouldn't make up for everything he'd done , it certainly made him feel like he was making a difference , today was no different .

from what this specific request sounded like , something along the lines of some kids trying to get popular quick off of exploring a haunted area was happening , while it wasn't the most strange way -- it was likely dangerous , considering what he's heard . . . the hauntings were far from myths in this place , there was genuine danger lurking around every corner , ready to pry upon some poor , innocent soul just trying to make an attempt at some " content " or something along the lines .

taking a moment to survey the entry , walking along the path that led inside , though he didn't stray too far from the entry way , waiting for the one who was supposed to meet him here , leaning over to take a look at the distance . . . surely his eyes were playing tricks on him .

there weren't spirits floating in the distance , were there ? or was that green glow simply a part of the atmosphere ? while he'd heard bits and pieces from those who'd been here on the express . . . he still wasn't sure just what to expect .

It was not the same in this garden, on this odd spaceship-planet. In spite of the surroundings looking quite similar, indeed the stonework and the greenery filling the air might have passed for almost Liyuean if one did not have a discerning eye, but more than that the feeling of the air, the veil feeling gossamer as a cobweb on her skin and dragging through her lungs, was unmistakably different.

She did not know what an Influencer was, nor why they needed Content, but she knew immediately upon first breath that there were no ghosts here. Not that there had never been, but that they currently did not haunt this place.

Perhaps they were irritated by these Influencers. Another reason to be rid of them.

She felt the haft of her lance materialize in her hands before the shape could even turn, the chill of her Vision spiraling out as the delicate Icy Quills crystallized in the air like so much downy frost.

in a moment of something akin to panic , his mind drew conclusions , the voice of a ghastly spirit rose to strike down the influencers plaguing this place , long gone souls wishing for rest rising to the dead to enact vengeance on those who won't let them rest , the worry was seen on his face as he turned and saw -- .

caelus has been the newest member of the nameless for a while now. and sunday isn't, technically, one of the nameless, just a passenger temporarily traveling alongside the astral express. but new people are always exciting when you see the same faces everyday, and so just as she once welcomed caelus aboard as easily as breathing, her treatment of him is no different.

even if he wasn't technically a nameless , the express still treated him like family , still made him feel like he was apart of the group , more then just a passenger on board for a short period of time .

attention shifted when March moved closer , his tone very soft and quiet , eyes wandering to the distance after a short moment . " there could be any number of surprises waiting for us . . . i can't say you're wrong , i'd love to hear their stories , ask what they've seen , what they've gone through . . . "

Those were the words spoken by Priestess Neko to Yelan – who had taken the trip to Asase Shrine for the purpose of being a tourist – and another passerby, as they both happened to be present at her shrine. 

Yelan agreed, feeling as though she couldn’t exactly come up with an excuse to say no, and the passerby next to her, a well-dressed man, one with feathered, bird-like wings on his head and what she could only assume was a halo floating above it, seemed to agree as well. Yelan's eyes squinted as she scrutinized the man. He doesn’t look to be from here, she thought to herself, as those thoughts began to wander to other things.

From thoughts like Can this guy fight? He looks like a light gust of wind would knock him over… to thoughts such as Would he have tried to steal from Miss Neko as well? No, he’s a little too properly dressed to do that and again, a gust of wind…

As the duo began to walk away, making their way towards where the Priestess had mentioned the Treasure Hoarders running off to, Yelan looked to her ally with a raised eyebrow. “Are you able to hold yourself in a fight? We should probably come up with a plan to ensure these Hoarders are arrested.” She rested her chin on her thumb and forefinger, looking towards the ground before them after saying that, getting a little lost in thought as she tried to talk strategy. “Miss Neko hadn’t said how many Treasure Hoarders there were, but they usually travel in packs of 5, less if they have enough muscle to make up for it. If you don’t think you can handle that, then walk away, I’ll deal with it, and we can both come back and say we helped Miss Neko.”

As she finished her thought, her eyes slightly lit up, as she then turned to face the man once again. “Oh, and sorry. Rude of me to not ask for your name. I’m Yelan, I work for the Ministry of Civil Affairs in Liyue, if you’ve been, and run a teahouse there as well.”

eyes wandered to Yelan , he could tell just from her expression that . . . she probably didn't have a high opinion of him right away , but that's fine , not many do , especially those who know his past .

he followed beside Yelan , his book under his arm as they made their way off to the specified area , attention turned to her as she spoke up . " I'd believe so , although I may not be of the most use when it comes to directly damaging the enemies . . . I'll be sure to make things easier for you . " from how she spoke , it almost seemed like she was doubting him based off of pure appearance , while slightly frustrating -- he can't really blame her , he doesn't have the body type of someone who'd be referred to as a warrior or anything of the sorts . " While I can't exactly say I have the muscle for it , I'm sure I could come up with a strategy , come the need for one , rest assured , I'll be able to handle it , even if we end up outnumbered , besides , I'd rather not leave you alone against five . "

his eyes were locked onto the charmony dove , laying in her hands , the ground cracking between them . . . beginning to split the two apart once more , Sunday helplessly tried to reach out , to the dove -- to his sister , nearly tripping over as he did , avoiding stepping upon the crack , knowing it could open up at any second .

" Sister . . . ! " her words resonated , somewhere deep within , he knew she was right -- he knew the words she spoke and the meaning they held , yet even still , even after all that . . .

tw : animal death .

This must be His.

"Brother...? You're here?"

Robin takes a step back. There is no name for this Feeling that takes over her senses. The sheerness of its gravity is enough to purge basic cognition, sending her thoughts to the Abyss of nothing. Is he here, is he truly here? Was he not just a figment of her Imagination, some construction of Memoria? What a cruel Reunion—what a cruel Dream! Of all the ways she had fantasized about his return, this was not one of them.

She is Voiceless—to his questions, to his tears, to her own turbulent emotions. Whatever words she might form or thoughts she might think are left to Die inside her, helplessly rubbing against her throat—Let me out! Let me Speak!

But in the absence of Song, there must be Choreography. The Music will continue to play, even if the singer can't perform. Robin dares take a step Forward—Fragile, Fearful, as though worrying the Dream might give in. But it doesn't, and soon she is able to stand directly in front of Sunday.

Her brother. Oh, her brother! Robin doesn't Weep for him. Tears cannot express even the smallest pinprick of her Melancholy. Instead, she only Looks. Looks into his eyes, then past that, his Soul. How it Hurts, how it Bleeds. He wishes for Choice. He agonizes his Fate. Chained up, he must have wished to see her while he was kept here. Of course, she wished to see him too.

Is he here, is he truly here? She needs to Speak—she needs him to Listen.

With a firm hand, she takes the cuffs chained to his wrist. She gathers what Strength she can, condensing her efforts in a deep breath. 

"...Brother," she Finally says, "We don't have to be the victims. That world can still exist. We can still be together, even if not in Paradise; even if not for now."

She kisses his knuckles. Then in a swift motion, she Rips the chains from the ground and throws them away. The floor beneath them once again shatters, sending both of them into freefall. But this time it is not the Emptiness of a non-Dream that envelops them. It is a Sunset—Gold, Purple, and Blue—bright and splendorous. Now that she knows he is Here, she has much she wishes to say. The Speechlessness of before converges into something Warm, something Certain.

"You're still wondering why we ended up growing apart, aren't you?" she asks, taking his hands into hers and clasping them tight. The wind whips through her hair, spreading it out like a star, "You feel as though it might be your fault, that maybe some other choice could have prevented all this."

She asks because she knows him—she asks because she had once felt the same. But the Realization she made was one aided by the Kindness of several others. She does not wish to command him. Only to clear the Path.

She pulls him into her Embrace. Robin whispers her words into his ears, tucks them beneath the feathers of his wings, crowns him with their halo.

the voice that came from the other side was one burnt into his brain , one he heard most of his life -- one he still hears every now and again when the songs begin to play in the express .

. . . this memory wasn't one he's had before , was this a dream ? why . . . Robin was never here , not once in his time in confinement was she here , did she even know he was here ?

. . . perhaps his dream became too real , yet her words -- the weak voice that replied from the other side as he looked up , faintly heard . " Robin . . . " his eyes finally meeting her , his body seemingly drained completely of color in this dream world . . . pained expression on his face as she came closer -- he hated for her to see him like this , in such a pathetic , vulnerable state , yet still , she was able to speak with such hope . . . with such faith in her brother , faith in him .

slowly , light returned to his eyes , eyes widening as Robin so easily rips the chains out from the ground , the vibrant color she carried being spread onto him -- her hope being imparted upon him .

" We don't . . . have to be victims . "

echoing her words as the world around them fades , one more time . . . there's no darkness anymore , there's no fear anymore , this time -- the nightmare has ended , the two had a moment of peace , her words rang deep into his heart , it's as if she read his mind , a question that he's wondered . . . for years .

his hands grabbed onto hers , holding on tight , not out of fear of the fall , but out of . . . just wishing to remain here for a little longer . " I can't deny it , can I . . . ? you know me well . " feeling the others embrace made him feel calm , pure calmness overcoming his whole body , able to finally let free a sigh of relief as his eyes shut .

" . . . I'm well aware , I've realized this long ago , there was a point where I worried about leaving , not for myself , but for you . . . there was a part of me that thought you still needed protecting , I thought as the eldest , that was my duty . " he hesitated , pausing , pulling her a little closer into his embrace . " I'm sorry for thinking that way , know that . . . I believe in you fully , you've become much stronger then I could have ever known , Robin . "

a proper exchange of words between the two this time , although the circumstances different . " I promise . . . I know Penacony is safe -- I know you're safe , so I'll continue trying to find myself , so that one day . . . I may be proud to see the person I've become , full steam ahead . "

as he finished speaking , the world below finally came into view -- the land manifesting around them , a familiar sight for the both . . . the two finally land . . . upon the same rooftop they said their improper goodbye , this time , this was different , this time , they had time , even if just a little . . . they could say what they needed to .

" . . . It's the real you , isn't it ? " he spoke under his breath , finally dressed in the outfit he now wears on his travels outside of Penacony , he knew , even if she said yes . . . he had to doubt it , how could he believe something in the dream world ? but something . . . something felt . . . different , somewhere , deep in his heart , he knew .

... Talk about generational trauma, if this fear is even stronger than her faith in Barbatos. Or maybe it is the latter that is too weak.

Neuvillette does not know, and frankly, does not care. All hearing this did for him was give him inspiration for the destination of his next walk. He has not been to Stormbearer Point yet, and has heard that it is quite the lovely place.

However, his interest is piqued upon reaching the destination, when he sees a lone figure in the distance. So it would seem that someone did pick up that commission, after all.

Usually, the Iudex minds his own business, but something about the silhouette grabs his attention. The style of clothing is peculiar, and the shapes on the sides of his neck, reminiscent of small wings... If Neuvillette were to guess, the man is likely to be an outworlder. Now, that might make for an interesting conversation, if he were willing.

... Even if Monsieur Chief Justice over here is not exactly skilled at starting those. Still - if he has chances to learn, he should probably take them if he intends to remain sincere in his quest to understand the world around him better.

With that in mind, he makes the final choice to approach.

for a while , he'd sat there , watching closely , taking in a view like no other , the mountains in the distance , the water beneath and the breeze keeping things cool , his book set to his side , standing there , taking everything in and living up to the task he was given to the best of his abilities .

his attention only finally left once a voice had come from behind , turning to greet the other who'd decided to approach .

" That would be me , yes . . . had you come to watch as well ? "

his attention turned back towards the area before him . " it's quite easy to lose track of time here , i can't tell you how long it's been since i arrived . . . "

THE DIRECTOR takes measures of caution around Herta Space Station. The eponymous Emanator didn't have the friendliest relationship with the Garden; their technology copied, Memokeepers going missing...he's truly trusting fate, sticking his nose in here. Still, the systems running on backup power and security guards stationed at different positions indicate that something's a little off here today. Emboldened, or perhaps unable to resist, he performs a casual survey.

His consciousness is transmitted and received from measuring devices, to screens, then to security cameras and more, an invisible eye on the lookout. A flash back to his recent encounter with a certain research ape, and he has to wonder--what was with the Erudition and the Remembrance, anyway? Could so-called "geniuses" not appreciate cinema? Hmph.

THE DIRECTOR'S frustration dissipates as he spots a familiar face and the plot comes into view. My, my...Sunday of the Oak Family, conductor of a dying dream, what are you doing here?

(THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR reminds him of the risks he had just been contemplating.)

Ignoring her, he manifests in a room around a corner SUNDAY has yet to reach. He pretends to contemplate signs mentioning an "Adoption Event!" "Just Ahead" "THIS WEEK ONLY" "ALL MUST GO!!!" as the man of the hour enters. He does not wait for SUNDAY to recognize him, instead turning around in astonishment, grinning.

"Mr. Sundaaay! Remember me? Heh heh... This is qute the unexpected twist~ What are the odds two Penaconians make an appearance during this--"

He gestures enthusiastically toward him to fill the awkward pause.

"--Adoption scene?! I haven't heard of your whereabouts since the Stellaron disaster. Are you doing a bit of 'soul-searching' after that ruckus? Adopting a pet can soothe a weary mind, you know."

...He's just as overwhelming as when he was peddling dream bubbles on the Radiant Feldspar.

" Mister Reca . . . ? "

and here of all places ? had he come to make a story on the adoption event . . . ? the man was just as dramatic as ever , adding that . . . intensity , to whatever he can throw it onto , unsurprisingly , he seems to still be in the know of everything , creepy , yet not unexpected .

" It's hard to not remember you -- I really didn't expect you of all people here . . . " he paused , wondering just how much he knew . " I suppose . . . soul searching isn't the worst way to word this journey I'm on , though that may be putting it too lightly . "

a nervous , low laugh escaped , eyes taking time to take in the scene around them , peeking at the signs shown to advertise the event and taking a few steps forward and peeking around , knowing Reca would likely stick rather close by , a choice he had no say on and wouldn't dare try and refute , else he might begin a dramatic guilt trip or something . . .

Herta stood tall as she spoke, more than proud of the hoard she'd amassed over the centuries. She drew closer to sunday and his duplicate, placing a hand over the false copy triggered the cube to start folding back up into it's prior state, The Genius' hand turning just in time to catch it.

"Curios are all special objects. Some extremely powerful, some the very definition of mundane. This would have fallen into the latter category before you returned it to me, it could hardly replicate a cup, let alone a person. Now, there's no telling what limits it might have before testing them."

Herta seemed more than pleased, wearing a grin as she brought the reformed cube back to it's cardboard homr before turning back to her guest.

"If you're still curious, I'd be happy to test these out with you around. Feel free to pick one. None of them should be hazardous, but be aware the realm of possibilities is endless with these."

he listened along to her explanation , interest clearly piqued once she mentioned the idea of him taking his pick and testing one out . " Are they not dangerous ? "

well , the one he saw her use wasn't , she seemed confident enough , so . . . he felt as if he could put his trust in her , taking a step forward to pick up one from the box -- something that seemed like a . . . flower ? a crystal flower that perfectly reflected what looked into it .

he touched it -- then around the two , as if it projected it from his memories , visions of areas he'd been to , although it didn't change the room , it was as if it was just an overlay -- atop the building he parted ways with Penacony .

Even as far (or perhaps not far at all) as she has ventured now, everything always returned to the Xianzhou, inevitably.

A familiar and yet nondescript courtyard forms around them. It could be any of the courtyards that comprise the Xianzhou. Simultaneously, it could be none of them, lacking anything that may tie it to a specific location. Lingsha sighs, dropping her hand. How irksome. "If you were going to return me home, you might have done somewhere more familiar!" She calls to whatever mysterious force controls their surroundings.

Lingsha 10/10HP rolls 4 Energy. [4 Energy] Lingsha 10/10HP hits Flying Sword 1 50/50HP with Dripping Mistscape. -3HP to Flying Sword 1 47/50HP. -1.5HP to all other enemies: (HALVED) YANQING 199.5/200HP, Flying Sword 2 48.5/50, Flying Sword 3 48.5/50, Flying Sword 4 48.5/50. Flying Sword 1 47/50HP counters with Jadecarve Strike [Roll: 5 = Hit! -1.5HP] Lingsha 8.5/10HP +3HP to all allies: Lingsha 10/10HP, +3 Charge MYDEI 5/10. All enemies inflicted with BEFOG. FUYUAN is triggered! FUYUAN does -6HP to all enemies.(halved) YANQING 196.5/200HP,  Flying Sword 1 41/50HP, Flying Sword 2 42.5/50, Flying Sword 3 42.5/50, Flying Sword 4 42.5/50.  FUYUAN heals all allies +2HP: MYDEI 7/10 Charge.

Her smoke envelops the field once more, forcing that overly sweet scent back as it consumes master and weapons alike. One of the wooden targets finally retaliates against her, spinning forward and clipping her in the shoulder as it bounces past. Lingsha hisses, a sound that immediately drags Fuyuan out of hiding. With a ferocious cry, the rabbit strikes back, soothing the ache before it can settle within bone.

"You don't consider this welcome warm?" Her tone is ever-merry, gaze lingering upon the other woman even as she draws her weapon once more. "I practically feel at home~"

ELYSIA (10/10HP) rolls 3 energy. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits Flying Sword 1 41/50HP with Shattered Transience. Roll:11+2 = 13 – [Cryo weakness revealed!] (Melt!) -37.5HP,  Flying Sword 1 3.5/50HP Flying Sword 1 3.5/50HP counters with Jadecarve Strike [Roll: 6 = Hit! -1.5HP] ELYSIA (8.5/10HP)

[1 energy]  ELYSIA (8.5/10HP) critically hits Flying Sword 1 3.5/50HP with Shattered Transience. Roll:19+2 = 21 – [Cryo weakness!]  -25HP,  Flying Sword 1 0/50HP Flying Sword 1 has been defeated.

And she would, regardless of the shape of their battlefield or its single standing opponent. Vines of vibrant pink wrap around the long end of a blade only just enough to catch its edge before it can dig through any more of Elysia's faux skin, crimson beading in the shallow line it leaves before it shatters.

At least these things are not too troublesome, but then there is still that soulless boy.

"Were there only fewer boys with swords, I might think to schedule a vacation here myself."

[1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits Flying Sword 3 42.5/50HP with Shattered Transience. Roll:11+2 = 13 – [Cryo weakness revealed!] (Melt!) -37.5HP,  Flying Sword 3 5/50HP Flying Sword 3 5/50HP counters with Jadecarve Strike [Roll: 5 = Hit! -1.5HP] ELYSIA (7/10HP)

" I've become more used to battles . . . but not such prolonged ones . "

this fight was clearly taking a toll on him , but it wasn't over , so he wasn't done .

The swords , once again having returned to the child's side proved to be a problem , as others seemed to have a few of the different ones under control , Sunday let his energy fly at a nearly unharmed one .

. . . to which the blade wasn't too happy , remnants of ice covering his body , but not going far enough to turn him into a block of ice or anything of the sorts . " That may have been a close call . . . "

It rings loudly, rattling bones as he weather’s attacks that are blindingly quick. “So now it pulls real people?” His voice may well be lost to his companions from this distance. It doesn’t matter, a new wariness settling into his chest. Could it bring…anyone?   

Mydei Godslayer -9 Yanqing, Kingslayer -8 Yanqing

Lingsha clucks her tongue. Fuyuan flies back to her again. In passing, its brushes her head against her palm. A brief glance between the two - Mydei is quite injured, little one - before it flies off to attack again. "A familiar phantom, nothing more."

FUYUAN is triggered (ally below 50%)! -12HP (6+MELT!+3) to all enemies. YANQING 138/200HP +2HP to all allies: MYDEI : 8/16HP Lingsha 10/10HP rolls 5 Energy. [4 Energy] Lingsha 10/10HP uses Dripping Mistscape. -3HP (1+2) to all enemies. YANQING 135/200HP +3HP (1+2) to all allies: MYDEI 11/16HP. YANQING is inflicted with Befog! FUYUAN is triggered! Yanqing  is affected by Pristine Seed and cannot counter Lingsha forfeits 2 Energy. FUYUAN -6HP to all enemies: YANQING 129/200HP FUYUAN heals all allies by 2HP: MYDEI 13/16HP.

Smoke threatens to swallow the mirage whole, enveloping its form and dragging it downwards. It does not even bother to swing its sword, held in place by some force that allows for little more than a twitching of his arms, as though he is trying to strike back but can't.

Move. A part of her pleads against sense. Say something. Do something.

 SUNDAY (10/10HP) rolls 4 energy.[3 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Benison of Paper and Rites on MYDEI .

bestowing his powers upon Mydei , eyes turning towards Lingsha , being as far back as he was -- he was able to catch things . " Is everything alright ? you seem distracted . "

did she have some sort of connection to this one ? now wasn't the time to be focused on that -- the battle was still at hand .

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on YANQING 129/200HP [ Roll: 15 = Hit! -3HP. ] YANQING 126/200HP Yanqing  is affected by Pristine Seed and cannot counter

She does not expect to see a familiar shadow of the Generals' puppy staring back at them.

Lingsha's steps pause for a moment while the others march forward. The form is familiar, though she sees no spark of recognition in his eyes, nor no remarks as any of his opponents enter the battlefield. It is so unlike the eager little swordsman that she has seen rushing about. She sniffs at the air, but the smell of rain clouds have parted. Aside from her companions, there is nothing here.

Steeling herself, Lingsha steps forward again, raising her brazier high.

Lingsha 10/10HP rolls 3 Energy. [3 Energy] Lingsha 10/10HP uses Smoke and Splendor. -2HP to all enemies: YANQING 190/200HP (dmg halved), Flying Sword 2 12.5/50 (Fire Weakness Revealed) Flying Sword 3 15/50 (Fire Weakness Revealed). +6HP to all allies:  MYDEI 15/16HP. FUYUAN is summoned!

Smoke rolls over Mydei and the remaining swords left in his wake. Before the clouds clear, she hears a shattering sound from within. Fragile. Nothing like the sturdier, real thing that she has seen fly through the air before. Her will is solidified even more as Fuyuan comes to rest on her shoulders, burying its face in her hair.

"I quite dislike the choice of opponent our mysterious battlefield has set out for us." She remarks flatly. "I would quite appreciate it if we could see this done quickly."

"Are you familiar with him?" She tosses a glance to Lingsha, then to the creature hiding in her shoulder, worry knitting her eyebrows. This odd arena of theirs has seemed as much a stranger to them as they are to it thus far, and revealing its hand with the face of one of their friends certainly makes it seem much less coincidental.

"Let's not waste any time, then~" Without missing a beat, her expression returns to cheerful, hands clapping together just beneath her chin.

 ELYSIA (10/10HP) rolls 3 energy. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits  FLYING SWORD 3 15/50 with Shattered Transience. Roll: 15+2 = 17, (Melt!) -4HP – FLYING SWORD 3 11/50 FLYING SWORD 3 is affected by Imprisonment and cannot counter. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits  FLYING SWORD 3 11/50 with Shattered Transience. Roll: 19+2 = 21, -5HP – FLYING SWORD 3 6/50 FLYING SWORD 3 is affected by Imprisonment and cannot counter. 1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits FLYING SWORD 3 6/50 with Shattered Transience. Roll: 4+2 = 6, -3.5HP – FLYING SWORD 3 2.5/50 FLYING SWORD 3 is affected by Imprisonment and cannot counter.

Bow in hand, Ego lets fly three arrows. They arc intentionally away from the boy himself, plinking off of one of his ice-forged blades and dissolving to pale pink dust with the contact. It isn't for naught, at least, as cracks draw veins through the ice and promise the weapons integrity to have weakened.

To their team dove, she turns with a smile. "Feel like taking care of that for me?"

SUNDAY (10/10HP) rolls 4 energy. [3 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Ode to Caress and Cicatrix on ELYSIA (10/10HP.) ELYSIA (10/10HP.) gains The Beatified. ELYSIA’s critical hit floor lowered by 2, damage increased on crits +1. Royal Masque activates, all allies gain +2 damage until the end of round. All allies healed +1HP.MYDEI 16/16HP.

the vines wrapped around his arms once more , instead of the glowing , radiant halo she's used to , the warmth -- the pure energy flowed throughout her , filling her with a sense of revitalization -- with a sense of pure power filling her body . " I hope this'll do you well , allow me to finish this one off for you . "

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on FLYING SWORD 3 2.5/50 [ Roll: 10 -4HP. ] FLYING SWORD 3 is defeated!

with one swift blow , the already weakened sword dissipated and fell , eyes turning towards the last sword , which . . .

FUYUAN does -6HP to all enemies: FLYING SWORD 2 [ FIRE WEAKNESS ] -31HP. YANQING 187/200HP (dmg halved) FLYING SWORD 2 is defeated! Sword Formation is dispelled! YANQING 187/200HP -5HP YANQING 182/200HP

And though she says this, there truly is no better a place to learn about a person than here. A battlefield brings out the truest of selves, that raw, human fight for survival. It's beautiful, and oh, how she yearns for it to be her own.

To Sunday, then, as glittering gold bathes her in its light once more, Elysia smiles.

"Sounds like a plan, I would say~"

Their foes are still murmuring, the one bound in the Imaginary Tree's roots has a voice like the rushing of water. If it was a Honkai creation, Elysia wonders if her very being might know the language, if she might could understand. Reassuring, she supposes, that she does not.

"Now, see! He's upset to be left out."

ELYSIA (10/10HP) rolls 4 energy. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 43/90HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 10+2 = 12, (Melt!) (Benison of Paper and Rites!)  -4HP – ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 39/90HP ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS is imprisoned and cannot counter. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) critically hits ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 39/90HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 18+2 = 20,  -4HP – ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 35/90HP ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS is imprisoned and cannot counter. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 35/90HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 15+2 = 17,  -2.5HP – ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 32.5/90HP ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS is imprisoned and cannot counter. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 42.5/90HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 15+2 = 17,  -2.5HP – ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 30/90HP ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS is imprisoned and cannot counter.

It's not thrilling, attacking something that cannot try and swipe back. Ego ducks and weaves, arrows in her fingers and then the air as fast as she can blink. They stick into odd limbs, pretty pink jutting out of a shoulder, an arm, a throat. With a shake of her head, they shatter and vanish, leaving only wounds in their wake.

Such displays of violence are not her art, after all.

"What a shame, I'm sure our friend here is a wonderful conversationalist, were it only that we got to know him..."

"I would never disagree with the notion of tea." She calls back to Elysia. The woman doesn't even appear to stutter as she launches an attack on their foes, almost dancing through the air as she bobs and weaves and strikes with arrows flying true. "I am simply calling the time and place into question. By all means, if you have a way to get them to stop attacking, I will not intervene."

[3 Energy] Lingsha 10/10HP uses Smoke and Splendor! All enemies -2HP: ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 51.5/90HP, ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 23.5/90HP. All allies heal +4HP (1+2+1). FUYUAN is reset!

Until then, however, she will continue to strike, engulfing them in her smoke once more. "I cannot help but feel like we are doing these poor fellows a disservice. Should we give them a chance? Mydei, would you let them kill you again so they can feel like they are accomplishing something with their lives before we defeat them?"

SUNDAY (10/10HP) rolls 6 energy. [3 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Benison of Paper and Rites on MYDEI .

as he has the entire time -- Sunday once again lent his aid to his ally , the halo forming behind Mydei before he sent his flurry of attacks towards the enemy once more .

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 51.5/90HP [Roll: 8 = Hit! -2HP] ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 49.5/90HP Imprisonment roll: 1 – successful! [1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 49.5/90HP [Roll: 11 = Hit! -2HP] ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 47.5/90HP [1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 47.5/90HP [Roll: 13 = Hit! -2HP] ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 45.5/90HP  ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES is imprisoned and cannot counter.

his shots of energy went flying at the flaming enemy , luckily , he hadn't had to dodge any attacks due to restraining it almost instantly , if his goal was to extinguish those flames , he seemed successful , if only momentarily , leaving the opening once more for his allies to whale on it , eyes turning to Mydei .

" i can only hope this opening makes up for my past actions . "

leaving the stage for Mydei to preform , he took a step back , his work had been done , his allies could continue through the door he opened for them , his luck seems to be looking up , despite just how rough it had been prior .

Silver linings and other vague, optimistic strains for these types of fights are not in his wheelhouse. Usually, he depends on others, reflectively looking over his shoulder in search of it. Instead of a smile, eyes bright despite a natural darkness - - there is Lingsha, with dark hair catching the bright flare of her lantern and words that drip sarcasm or exasperation or whatever it is, he can’t tell.

Surprisingly, it makes him laugh. Catches him off guard, where his power digs pushes at the hovering thing until it nearly touches the ground and holds. Another strike comes, then another, until he is trading blows with only one.

“Something stronger than tea, when this is over.” He says, standing on his own two feet, knowing that all he wishes for is a bit of fruit juice mixed with something to cut the sweetness. Even that would be too much, but…perhaps that wish too, is a silver lining that he tosses aside.

He stays on his feet this time. That is quite a relief.

[3 Energy] Lingsha 10/10HP uses Smoke and Splendor! All enemies -2HP: ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 56.5/90HP, ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 49/90HP. All allies heal +4HP (1+2+1): MYDEI: 10/12HP FUYUAN is reset! Lingsha 10/10HP forfeits 1 Energy.

"If there were any certainty we would be in the same location when released from here, I would take you up on that offer." She calls back. Another rolling plume of smoke envelops him momentarily before striking at the foes he faces off against. She might join the fray herself...but she is rather content in her claimed place on the backlines.

"A strong drink...a chance to relax...oh, I would kill for the chance to take a path after this. Don't you agree, Fuyuan?" As though rejuvinated by the very idea, it lets out a happy little squeal and spins around her quickly.

SUNDAY (10/10HP) rolls 6 energy.

" If we keep up like this . . . "

[3 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Benison of Paper and Rites on ELYSIA .

once again , that radiant halo was brought down onto Elysia by the golden cherubs , hovering around Sunday shortly after .

" perhaps if the chance came , if welcomed , I'd like to join you three for a nice chat after this . "

it wasn't difficult to grow fond of those you've been fighting alongside for what felt like hours on end , allies . . . the astral express and all this truly helped him realize , things are a lot better with those by your side , even if it may take some getting used to . . . he really didn't mind .

his eyes shifted towards the newly confined enemy , knowing he could strike without risk , of course he jumped at the opportunity for it .

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 49/90HP [Roll: 11 = Hit! -2HP] ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 47/90HP [1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 47/90HP [Roll: 12 = Hit! -2HP] ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 45/90HP [1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 45/90HP [Roll: 7 = Hit! -2HP] ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 43/90HPABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS is imprisoned and cannot counter.

nine orbs of light sent flying , striking the enemy numerous times while he can't fight back , a cowardly tactic ? some may call it that , but unlike his allies , he's not one who can take a beating very well , while having the capabilities to rejuvenate himself , even if only a little -- if he could lessen the load on Lingsha , that'd be preferable .

" remind me to properly thank you all -- if that time does come . "

He twists; golden eyes muddled with confusion as he opens his mouth to say-

What? He doesn’t know. As soon as he does, the mountain-like creatures have fully materialized in front of them – the slightest movement acting like a taunt that urges them into action. Mydei moves in response, repetitively working through the same motions as before. This time, he lets the creatures circle him, bright-eyed with warbling tones…as if they have the intelligence to assess him, vocal like their other enemies were not.

Wave two, start. Mydei rolls 5 energy.

If it is a language, it’s not one he’s heard. He ignores it, summoning a spear to his hand. Before, proximity had done too much, too fast. Now, he adjusts, twirling the weapon until they rotate together, clipping the red one before finding a home in what would be the other’s shoulder.

In a distinctly human way, it lifts a hand and dislodges it, the “blood” that pours out too dark to be anything human. Still, alarm races through Mydei’s head in the way it turns to him with more terrible, inhuman noises to accompany it. What it sends is water in two perfect arcs, too wide for him to do more than cover his arms to defend.

Mydei uses Deaths are Legion, Regrets are none. -6 hp Mydei. -4 hp Hydro, -2 Pyro. Hydro counter 1 hit, counter 2 hit. -3hp Mydei…..imprison…fail…)

Pain erupts, a shower of his own blood spraying where the water takes it. The Kremnoan is dazed. Since when had water been able to act like a blade? He groans, shaking his head to clear it. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time an enemy’s strategy caught him so unguarded, nor the last. Without looking for his companions, he sheds the pretense of caution and leaps again.

Up close, the water-wielding terror is less human that its form suggests. Bright blue eyes don’t seem to find need to blink, unflinching even under the force of Strife connecting with it’s chest, sharp crystal spreading as far from Mydei’s fist as it can to search for a weakness. For a moment, the blonde thinks he’s found one, but more water pulses, only a second of warning before the blade-like cold tears through his chest and blows him back.

A death so quick he hardly registers it. Except that when his eyes snap open again, he’s several feet from where he was before, one hand pressed to the killing blow that has healed just enough to allow him consciousness.

They consider Mydei like he is their only prey, and as before he continues to make himself seem like such. Watercolor eyes watch as he is sent flying, and she has the courtesy to wince when he hits the ground. There is nothing to envy about that, certainly.

"Are they speaking?" There are those sounds again, not the same primal ones typical of beasts or even just animals. Elysia dips carefully past one, brows furrowed with her fascination. "Hellooooo~? Can you understand me?"

The crimson one raises a flaming hand.

"Ah, is that a yes?"

 ELYSIA (10/10HP) rolls 3 energy. [2 energy] ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 85.5/90HP  with Infinite Helix. Roll: 5+2 = 7, -2.5HP – ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 83/90HP  ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 83/90HP is affected by Pristine Seed! -1HP to surrounding enemies: ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 80/90HP  ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES  is affected by Pristine Seed and cannot counterattack.

Before flames can reach far enough to lap at her, she is armed. A crystal arrow whizzes past its target, loops around it once and then thrice, over and over again, a trail of vines in its wake. They tighten around the almost-human figure, bind arms and leave sparks to wilt harmlessly to the floor. Elysia hums.

"Blink twice if- Oh, can you blink?"

There's no telling if it is just without eyelids or intentionally refusing out of spite. Defeated, Ego looses a wistful sigh. "And here I had hoped we might could be friends, but I suppose you'd rather fight."

She does still pause, as though giving it a moment to reconsider, before raising her bow again.

    [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 83/90HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 11+2 = 13, -2.5HP – ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 80.5/90HP  ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES  is affected by Pristine Seed and cannot counterattack.

"Hmph, have it your way."

SUNDAY (10/10HP) rolls 5 Energy.

as they have many times today , the golden creatures rise from his book -- this time , surrounding and powering up Lingsha , along with her companion .

[3 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Benison of Paper and Rites on LINGSHA .

feeling completely rejuvenated , Lingsha having yet to make a move -- he knew he could take a risk , he could gamble it with minimal risk , she may not be his biggest fan after the fact , but if it could help them in the long run , risks were something he had to take .

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 80.5/90HP [Roll: 16 = Hit! -2HP] ABYSS LECTOR: FATHOMLESS FLAMES 78.5/90HP Imprisonment roll: 1 – successful!

after what felt like hundreds of tries , failing over and over -- the enemy before him was finally restricted , attention almost instantly turning towards the enemy who's still able to walk free , confident his allies will be able to do some considerable damage to him.

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 80/90HP  [Roll: 15 = Hit! -2HP] ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 78/90HP ABYSS LECTOR: WICKED TORRENTS 78/90HP counters with Rippling Slash Combo. [Roll: 16, 3. = Hit! Miss! -1.5HP] SUNDAY (8.5/10HP)

although he couldn't be as lucky as he was seconds ago , his pace was picking up , taking the first strike from the enemy , just narrowly being able to dodge the second attack sent his way , it's been quite a while since he's had to move this fast to keep up . . .

. . . it's not a terrible feeling , either .

He’d never admit it, but it’s nice, having capable allies. He hasn’t forgotten what it’s like – could never forget the people who’ve fought at his side - but the solitude of Castrum Kremnos is something that’s been with him for years, no matter when the crown had finally settled over his head.

As if he’d challenged the Titans themselves, the sentiment of camaraderie is ripped from him. “Hey-!” A breath, but the rest of his sentence is lost as pivots towards Sunday, the metal knee of his greaves scraping the ground in haste. The first strike he’d seen from far away, the same kind of downward swipe that had cracked Mydei’s skull aimed at Sunday, whose entire body seemed to tremble with it.

Mydei rolls 3 energy

Why? Two more blows landed, this time from the one that wielded an ornate golden sword painted to appear dipped in blood and laced with something sparkling. He couldn’t help but think that it would be beautiful, if it hadn’t already claimed his life once.

There was not a third strike, but only because Mydei extended his arms with a growl, catching the blow that carved through his gauntlet and down to the bone, slamming into the side of it with an explosion of strife, dark red and persistent in how they fanned the floor at their feet and shoved back. There it was, he was almost thankful to have Strife overwhelming his senses, whirling on Sunday in the brief moment offered by the temporary divide that held off their enemies. “You have no place on the field,”  He tells him, unable to care for the harshness dripping from his tongue. They are in a battle. Even if they won’t die - - Mydei grips the shorter man by the shoulders and walks him backwards, towards where the others still stand. “Do not make a habit of dying because you think you can’t. Only idiots-” There’s more to it, but little time left for Mydei. Now that Strife soars under his skin, he has to use it before it drives him to madness. Now is not the time to be scolding someone he might not even know tomorrow.

Mydei uses Deaths are Legion. -3hp to Present, -1.5hp to Past and Tomorrow. Inflicted with Revelry

The pink one – he still hadn’t committed her name (and at this point, was it too impolite to ask?) – earns his attention for a brief second. Then Lingsha. Not unharmed, but better positioned. “I can rest when the battle is over,” He says, shrugging off the notion that the battle is never over. Not for him. “Or they put me down. You,” He means Sunday. “Stay with them. Stay together. Make a plan. I keep them busy.”

Mydei (1/14hp) enters Vendetta – Kingslayer, be King. Crit damage to Present -8hp, Present/Tomorrow -4hp

Determined to make good on his promise to give time, the air around them condenses to his will, coating the battlefield with the scent of his own blood in jagged crystal, keeping their enemies circling, striking at him and the wall between the others until the demi-god feels his strength begin to slip from him. Death looms until he lets the crystal melt away in a raging river of crimson, one last blind strike to the closest target.

The one with the sword. He knows this without the red clearing from his vision because that same sword is lodged straight through his gut. He wheezes but does not die. How unfortunate.  

mydei uses throne of bones +7hp to mydei, -1 hp to tomorrow, -.5hp to present/past. tomorrow fucking CRITS him, of course. -3hp

He's impressive, though. His entertaining of their foes may as well be as a one man army. At least his is not the familiar attitude of a man who insists on working entirely alone, no get out of my way to be heard. Though she can certainly hear Kalpas's voice loud and clear enough in her mind that it may as well have been real.

Not that she, famously, has ever listened.

ELYSIA (10/10HP) rolls 5 energy. [2 energy] ELYSIA (10/10HP) uses Radiant Destiny and enters Herrscher of Origin form until end of round [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” 7/50HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 5+2 = 7, -2.5HP – “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” 4.5/50HP Herrscher Charge: 1 “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” counters with Precious Blood Shed For You. Counter roll: 1 – successful ELYSIA (10/10HP) is inflicted with Carousal of Revelry.

It's the same song, the same fifty thousand year old dance. The sea and stars welcome Ego in her truest form, Origin. She dives across the battlefield, flourishing the ivory spire of her staff. Bursts of light, shooting stars to arc towards the weakest of their foes.

[1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” 4.5/50HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 13+2 = 15, -2.5HP – “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” 2/50HP Herrscher Charge: 2 “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” counters with Precious Blood Shed For You. Counter roll: 2 – unsuccessful

And little for retalliation. Elysia hums, pleased with herself as she ducks away unscathed. The end of her weapon is planted firmly to the ground, and with a smile she awaits the splitting of the sky to punctuate it.

[1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) misses “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” 2/50HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 2+2 = 4 “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” counters with Precious Blood Shed For You. Counter roll: 1 – successful ELYSIA (10/10HP) is inflicted with Carousal of Revelry.

It does not come, no cracks in the glass or burst of starlight. The slightest of frowns crosses her face, remains as she taps her staff to the stone floor once more. Nothing-- Elysia sighs.

"A shame~" Her head shakes once. "You two can finish it off, surely!"

those words resonated deep within him -- deep down , he knew he was correct , Sunday was often trapped behind his desk , often trapped doing the trivial work in Penacony , his combat experience minimal -- the one time he did fight against the Astral Express . . . was a complete failure , overwhelmed and defeated , brought to the lowest point in his life .

. . . perhaps mydei was correct .

after lingering on his words , watching him rush back into battle , a show of pure strength and confidence clashing with enemies who refuse to back down even in the face of such a terror .

" even so . . . "

fingers dug into the cover of his book , even if his body was battered , even if he was barely hanging on from the healing given from Lingsha -- even if his damage was minimal , he had the ability to fight , how was he to learn his place on the battlefield if he didn't try ? of course he was of a more supportive role , but nonetheless . . .

SUNDAY (6.5/10HP) rolls 5 Energy.

he stepped forward once more , Mydei said to make a plan , so Sunday would speak . " there's one much weaker then the other two , the one with the cup should be our target , if we can take him out . . . i can attempt to lock down one of the stronger ones . " his book opened once more , once again , his allies inside giving their support to Mydei .

[3 energy] SUNDAY (6.5/10HP) uses Benison of Paper and Rites on MYDEI . Carousal of Revelry is cleansed from MYDEI.

" Miss Lingsha , next time , I'll be relying on you , if that's alright with you . " he felt bad , but the least he could do for all the mending she's been doing after every blow he's been taking was provide her with his support , even if it doesn't do the most . " please forgive me , the both of you . "

[1 energy] SUNDAY (6.5/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on “PAST CONFINED AND CAGED” 21/50HP [Roll: 9 = Hit! -2HP] “PAST CONFINED AND CAGED” 19/50HP Imprisonment roll: 2 – unsuccessful. “PAST CONFINED AND CAGED” counters with Cleansing Flagellation. Roll:10 , Hit! -2HP SUNDAY (4.5/10HP)

like most other attempts , his attempt of imprisonment ended in failure , but he didn't seem as injured , he knew he could take it , he had to -- he wasn't going to be a burden for the team , not one they had to constantly worry about .

" Once again . . . keep fighting , I'm not throwing my life away , I assure you . "

one could likely find it hard to believe his words with how reckless he seemed to be , but his words carried a certain weight , a certain confidence behind them .

SUNDAY forfeits one energy.

Again and again. Perhaps a Kremnoan fantasy forced upon him. His lips twist, looking over his shoulder to see the other three – the only three things that kept him tethered to the hope that this was not simply the afterlife meant for him. He would not have conjured these three to be standing at his side in any personal hell.

His feet carried him ahead of his companions, away from any chances that they had to converse in between this room and whatever waited ahead. Talk to them, a voice chastises him, if you are truly in this together, then it’s because you need them. You know battle. Find their strengths and improve your Detachment’s chances of survival. A sigh, another glance back.

Beneath his hand, the door swings open as if by magic, the road ahead too dark to make out more than a few steps at a time. “Stay close.” Is all he says, anticipating a fight even before the door behind them swings shut, the booming echo making his ears ring. He curses, jumping to where he last saw his companions by instinct alone. He collides with a body, his unarmored hand catching slim shoulders before the force can topple them. Hysterically, he is grateful to find anyone at all – to say the severity of the their circumstances isn’t toying with his head would be a boldfaced lie.

Still, he takes a breath to calm himself, the familiarity of a nearly too-sweet incense and a scent he can’t name prompts a step back. “Lingsha. I…sorry. Are you -?” The relief he feels is lost in the frustration warping his tone, feeling around in the darkness for a wall to act as a guiding point until sudden fire lights all around them. For harrowing seconds, it’s too much, but Mydei again moves to stand in front of the others now that he can see them better.

Like any true arena, their opponents wait at the room’s center. Mydei’s teeth are already grit against a snarl. “We know what this place wants.” He says, looking around for a door where there is none. “Guess we’re still playing along.” And why not? The stakes were low, so far.

mydei rolls 3 energy

Very pointedly, he ignores the fact that if they are fighting they can’t be talking. Blindly, he slashes at his opponents where they stand so closely together that one arching, horizontal slash catches all for one strike.

If his experience has taught him anything, it’s that enemies who seem to move in purposeful formation are often craftier, stronger. They quickly prove him right – he stumbles back from the wave of magic that one of them sends. Only, it isn’t a strike, but a wave of magic that washes over him, that settles into his bones and fills his head with a soft swaying music that frays against his concentration. He stills for a moment, shaking his head to dislodge the nuisance as if he merely had his ears clogged by a bath. When it wouldn’t cease, he started his charge again, metal against metal as one countered his slash with a metal baton sweeping across his cheek.

Momentarily dazed, Mydei digs his weapon into the floor for stability, swinging into the air to kick at the third and final creature. As it staggers under the force of his kick, Mydei thinks to plunge his weapon between what might count for it’s ribs. It’s quick, more than any human thing could be – where it swats him from the air, head cracking painfully against the ground as his vision goes unceremoniously black.

…he doesn’t stay dead for long. After what seems to be seconds, Mydei’s hands press to the ground to push himself up, the left side of his face wet with golden blood that he begins to wipe from his vision, dodging another strike as he reorients himself.

Such a moment should have more gravity, shouldn't it? Life so seldom returns to that which has lost it, doubly so for a species of dwindling numbers, that has only ever known rebirth through the loss of self entirely. By all common logic, her death should be a great tragedy. Instead, no fanfare is given, no speeches delivered. She rises to her feet and recovers her fallen weapon as the team marches onward to further battles unknown, with no delay to see how she has recovered from her loss.

Well. She probably shouldn't have expected much. They hadn't offered Elysia any sort of condolences either, after all.

Heavy thoughts are knocked from her head by a physical form, as Mydei's much larger shape collides with hers. He catches her, at least, remembering to don the guise of a gentleman at the very last second. A huff is her response, as she regains her footing.

"I am fine, thank you." She is not as fragile as she may look to him. She does not know if he catches the appreciative nod she attempts to give him before he turns away to face their newly arrived foes. She hopes he might have, but she will not hold her breath.

Only three new foes rise to meet them this time, though they look far stronger than the last. They quickly prove themselves so as well, as though Mydei surges forward to meet them, the enemies retaliate quickly in turn. As though he is nothing, Mydei is thrown aside by their foes with a sickening crack that turns her stomach.

Lingsha's teeth grit together as she prepares her lantern - far too late for him, focus on what you can do...or so she thinks before, to her great surprise, he rises again and launches himself into the fray once more. Stillness claims her form for a moment, simply watching with wide eyes. It is a dodged attack that comes too close for comfort once more that snaps her back into action.

Lingsha 10/10HP uses Smoke and Splendor. -2 HP to all enemies: “PAST CONFINED AND CAGED” 43.5/50HP, “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” 41.5/50HP, “TOMORROW IN HARMONIOUS CHORDS” 41/50HP. +4HP (1+[2]+1HP) to all allies: MYDEI (10/14HP). Fuyuan is summoned!

Her burner sends a wave of smoke rolling across the form. It quickly consumes their foe and Mydei both, each with a different purpose in mind. Mydei's wounds are not fully healed, but enough so that the strange gold seems to ebb for now.

"Perhaps we would be wise to assist?" She calls to her two companions. Fuyuan lets out a triumphant little cry as it circles their team - one of the energetic ones this time, hmm? "I am more than happy to let him keep their attention, of course, but I imagine that will only last for so long."

but here was different , here felt . . . real , he was here , he was actually here -- these people around him were all so real , the enemies , unfamiliar , yet very real .

or , so he thought , until the next set of enemies formed before them once they had finally reached their next location -- these ones all too familiar , with Mydei wasting little to no time , he hadn't even had time to help in the ways he could .

SUNDAY (10/10HP) rolls 6 Energy.  [3 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Benison of Paper and Rites on ELYSIA .

once more , assisting Elysia -- his choice would have been Mydei , if it weren't for him being so far ahead -- so . . . defeated ? it was jarring to see him fall to the ground instantly , lifeless . . . so soon ? what shocked him even more -- was him standing back up literal seconds after , words echoing in his head . " He wasn't exaggerating , was he . . . " could this man really not die ?

he didn't have time to worry about that , not right now , the battle was at hand and things like those could be asked at a later date , the time to fight was now .

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on  “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” 41.5/50HP [Roll: 15 = Hit! -2HP] “PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” 39.5/50HPImprisonment roll: 2 – unsuccessful.

able to open his book and send balls of energy flying towards the enemies before them , managing to land his hits -- but failing to chain them as he once did , he seems to have gotten lucky . . .

“PRESENT INEBRIATED IN REVELRY” counters with Precious Blood Shed For You. Counter roll: 1 – successful

SUNDAY (10/10HP) is inflicted with Carousal of Revelry. SUNDAY takes -1 Electro damage at start of his turn. Lasts 2 turns. 

though unsure of what he'd been inflicted with , he chose to ignore it until it became a problem , a mistake ? likely , but one he'd live with in the future .

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on “PAST CONFINED AND CAGED” 43.5/50HP [Roll: 1 = Miss! ]

aiming his attacks towards one of the other present enemies , as to try and spread out his chances of sealing them up -- the choice he made seemed to fail him , not only was the enemy able to seamlessly dodge his attack --

“PAST CONFINED AND CAGED” counters with Cleansing Flagellation. Roll: 20, Crit! -4HP SUNDAY (6/10HP)

he showed him just how vulnerable he was , delivering a blow strong enough to make Sunday feel like he'd just broken a fair few bones -- despite that , he could stand , he could still fight , eyes shifting towards the last enemy who hadn't yet gotten any of his attention -- it was a gamble , but . . . in a situation like this , choices like those need to be made .

[1 energy] SUNDAY (6/10HP) uses Gleaming Admonition on  “TOMORROW IN HARMONIOUS CHORDS” 41/50 HP [Roll: 15 = Hit! -2HP] “TOMORROW IN HARMONIOUS CHORDS” 39/50 HP Imprisonment roll: 2 – unsuccessful.

on the plus side -- he managed to land a blow upon the enemy , the negative ? he still wasn't able to achieve his goal , he made an attempt to dodge away from the strike he knew was coming .

“TOMORROW IN HARMONIOUS CHORDS” counters with All Is Bright.  Roll: 15, Hit! -1.5HPSUNDAY (4.5/10HP)

but he wasn't quick enough , but he hadn't fallen , he was still standing , he may not have a tough body like Mydei -- or experienced falling like Elysia and Lingsha , but he wasn't stopping , he knew he could still fight , so he'd fight . " Don't worry about me , keep fighting -- I'll keep doing the same . " he knew if he kept it up , he'd become a liability -- constantly getting himself hit with little to no benefit . . . so next time , he'd be smarter , his fighting up until this point was so uncertain , but he's sure he can find his confidence .

And with the way that she rises, such may as well be true. Elysia smooths her hair, humming to herself as she takes in the scene around them. Indeed, it has changed-- there are still the same allies, still the same stars, but the creatures before them are... most different. Her allies waste no time, it seems.

With a cant of her head towards Lingsha, Ego laughs. "I suppose I'll have to stick around, then."

ELYSIA (10/10HP) rolls 5 energy [2 energy] ELYSIA (10/10HP) uses Radiant Destiny and enters Herrscher of Origin form until end of round

With a flourish of her hand, Origin transforms the world once more. The sea welcomes her, carries her across its constellations as new stars take shape from her staff. They glitter as they arc towards their targets, brilliant light in a hundred pale colors.

[1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) critically hits WINDER GOON: 19/25HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 19, -2HP, Melt activates, 3HP, Benison of Paper and Rites activates, -4HP  –  WINDER GOON: 15/25HP Herrscher Charge: 1 WINDER GOON cannot counter attack because Charging. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits WINDER GOON: 15/25HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 5, -1HP – WINDER GOON: 14/25HP Herrscher Charge: 2 WINDER GOON cannot counter attack because Charging. [1 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits WINDER GOON: 15/25HP with Shattered Transience. Roll: 5, -1HP – WINDER GOON: 13/25HP Herrscher Charge: 3 WINDER GOON cannot counter attack because Charging.

"You know, I'm not to sure I like these new friends. The last ones were much cuter..."

A sigh as she falls back, legs crossed where she floats in the air. Fingers thrum idly against her staff, counting, anticipating--

[0 energy]  ELYSIA (10/10HP) uses Waltz of Stars and hits all enemies, -1HP (Melt!) BUBBLE HOUND A: 14.5/18HP, (Melt!) BUBBLE HOUND B: 15.5/18HP, (Melt!) FORTUNE SELLER: 10/13HP, (Melt!) MR. DOMESCREEN: 14/17HP, (Melt!) SPRING LOADER: 10.5/13HP, WINDER GOON: 12/25HP MR. DOMESCREEN is set to Surprise Channel.

From below rises Origin's Spirit, leaping towards their foes as though merely playing amongst the waves. It crashes against them, sends them scattering about, only to return once more beneath the tide. Elysia hums her goodbye once more.

"I hope you all didn't miss me too much~" A glance to each ally. "Shall we make quick work of these ones, too?"

Seeing the way that Elysia had fallen and risen again, she knows that the strange battlefield will seemingly not allow for them to die for good. Whatever reason has brought them here will see them play the roles in their play for as long as there are still roles to fill.

For a brief second, however, fleeting as smoke on the wind, she feels a touch of fear.

 BUBBLE HOUND B (15.5/18HP) hits LINGSHA: 10/10HP with Drink Invite. Roll: 11, -2HP, LINGSHA: 8/10HP LINGSHA (8/10HP) counterattacks with Votive Incense. Roll: 19, hit! -1HP – BUBBLE HOUND B: 14.5.5/18HP 4. FORTUNE SELLER (10/13HP) hits LINGSHA: 8/10HP with Lottery Warmup. Roll: 10, -2HP, LINGSHA: 6/10HP  LINGSHA (6/10HP) counterattacks with Votive Incense. Roll: 1, miss! 5. SPRING LOADER (10.5/13HP) hits LINGSHA: 6/10HP with Throw Die. Roll: 8, -1HP, LINGSHA: 5/10HP  Next attack against LINGSHA will do +1 damage LINGSHA (5/10HP) counterattacks with Votive Incense. Roll: 6, hit! -1HP – SPRING LOADER: 9.5/13HP

Angered by her smoke once more, the foes turn their attention towards her. The attacks are quick, and painful, no doubt to leave bruises on her skin that she will need to be mindful of in the coming days. Nevertheless, the onslaught is not unbearable, and in retaliation her burner swings, releasing attacks onto the great number of foes that turn their attention towards her. It is unpleasant, but not unbearable.

And then the bell tolls.

WINDER GOON (12/25HP) uses Wake Up Alarm! All allies act again. MR. DOMESCREEN (14/17HP) uses Startling Broadcast and hits all enemies. Roll: 17, critical hit! -3HP, LINGSHA 2/10HP, -1 energy on next turn Entanglement roll: 2 – unsuccessful BUBBLE HOUND A (13.5/18HP) hits LINGSHA: 2/10HP with Drink Invite. Roll: 8, -2HP, LINGSHA: 0/10HP

Piercing and shrill, an alarm rings through the air. While Lingsha steps back, clutching at her head, the enemies seem to be rejuvenated by it, somehow, surging forward once more. A blast from one foe. A launched projectile from another.

Her burner is the first thing to hit the ground, clattering as it rolls away from her. Glass shatters as Lingsha falls next to the ground. Fuyuan slips from her shoulder, worried and fretting as it does its best to crawl into her arms before its from disappears, retreating back to the safety of home.

Bitterly, Lingsha laughs to herself. Perhaps it is just her imagination, playing one last trick on her as her eyelids grow heavy and the surrounding sights begin to fade and dim. But she swears the liquid from the bottle flung her way just almost, almost, had the smell of sea salt to it. Home in spirit, if not in name.

There are no flames to be found her. And so, spluttering out, she fades.

Lingsha is defeated!

from the sounds of it , mydei was unable to die . . . he's already in a position similar -- but the rest of them . . . what would happen to them ?

he didn't want to find out , the quicker they won , the quicker they got out of here .

" Mydei -- I hope . . . "

SUNDAY (10/10HP) rolls 4 energy. [4 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Ode to Caress and Cicatrix on MYDEI: (5/10HP)MYDEI: (5/10HP) gains The Beatified.

a golden glow surrounds him , purple vines beginning to wrap around his arms as they come together , a golden feather dropping right into his hands -- clasping them together as the vines wrap his hands together , for only a mere second , Mydei could feel a surge around him , a pulse of energy flowing through him , as the vines dissipate .

" this will serve you well -- you may not feel it , but if it comes to it . . . they will . "

There is euphoria to this, to pain. A sensation belonging to something with a heart that beats to feel it.

"I'd say our guardian angel is doing quite well~" She chirps, not a note astray. "That creature of yours, does it have a name? It's adorable!"

Returned to Human, Ego's hands are once more occupied with a bow. She makes no small show of remembering its existence, evidently amused with her own joke as she draws it once more.

"I only hope you don't mind sharing the spotlight, Miss Lingsha!"

ELYSIA 2/10HP rolls 5 energy [2 energy] ELYSIA (10/10HP) hits CRYO HILICHURL GRENADIER (2.5/15HP) with Infinite Helix. Roll: 8, Benison of Paper and Rites activates, -2HP  –  CRYO HILICHURL GRENADIER: 0.5/15HP -1HP to surrounding enemies:BLAZING AXE MITACHURL: 5.5/25HP CRYO HILICHURL GRENADIER is affected by Pristine Seed. CRYO HILICHURL GRENADIER cannot counterattack. PRAYER FOR WINDS roll: 1 – -1HP, ELYSIA: 1/10HP

Her arrow erupts, a thousand shards like sakura petals as they shatter and drift to the ground beneath them, its target squabbling in pain. Elysia thinks to feel bad for it, sighing sympathetically as its weapon clatters to the stone beneath them, hands grasping frantically for too many wounds.

She finds her own ache, feels where her limbs are beginning to protest. Elysia has known death, has known fates worse. She does not fear Finality, even if she wishes that she might.

Fingers weave another rose, draw it on a spider's silk string. It will be quick, painless. It will be a kindness. It-

[2 energy] ELYSIA (1/10HP) misses CRYO HILICHURL GRENADIER (0.5/15HP) with Infinite Helix. Roll: 3 CRYO HILICHURL GRENADIER cannot counterattack.

Her arm jerks, the tension too much for her to control, the rose a harmless flower where is disappears into nothing. Elysia's eyes widen, surprised.

PRAYER FOR WINDS roll: 1 – -1HP, ELYSIA: 0/10HP

Origin knows its end before it arrives in the press of cool stone to her cheek, in the slow darkening of the sky around her. WIth a hum, she allows it, lets the ache seep from her hollow bones into the ground. In its absence, she begins to drift.

"Don't mind... me..." There is a smile on her lips, her voice as though she is in a dream.

ELYSIA is defeated!

Mydei’s gaze lowers only briefly, following the way her body crumbles. This woman whose name he can’t remember, was too singularly focused in the beginning to bother with strangers. The musical lilt of her cheery tone from moments before haunts, breaking the fierceness affixed to his expression for a short moment of mourning.

Something softer, because while he had been born to face death after death – it was always difficult to reconcile someone else succumbing to their injuries.“Check and see if she’s still alive.” A command for either of his standing allies or none. He doesn’t care if they listen, only that they stay far away from the enemy’s axe. Irritation overtakes him, stalking towards the last enemy standing while it attempts to fall back and ready another blow.

He wouldn’t allow it. Spear now in hand, the blonde twists to duck the hulking opponent’s cleaving strike, so close that he can smell rancid, burning flesh mixed with whatever riverside field it must have called home. He inhales anyway, using every ounce of his strength to sever bone and tendon, the satisfying clamor of the weapon falling from the now severed arm as the beast staggers back.

Mydei 6/12HP uses Elemental Burst, Throne of Bones. +6HP to Mydei, -1 HP to Blazing Axe Mitachurl.

Not one to let any advantage slip through his fingers, he twists his weapon in his grip, using the tool as an anchor as he searches for the right leverage. It doesn’t take long. The blazing beast, badly wounded, has enough intelligence to grow sloppy with pain. Soon, the tip of his weapon lodges against it’s chest, the slightest resistance before flesh gives way.

Mydei 12/12HP uses Elemental Skill, Kingslayer, be King. -3.5 heath to Mydei, charge 10/10. -2 HP to Blazing Axe Mitachurl

Victory and defeat. Those are the only two options, each assigned to one party or another at the end of every fight. Outside of defending Amphoreus from the Black Tide, he knows nothing else. This…he has lived, but he wouldn’t readily celebrate, kicking the legs out from underneath the dying beast’s body, hands already stained red from the blood dripping down the length of his spear. Its body is limp before it hits the ground, but he twists the weapon nonetheless, carving further into the growing hole where its heart would be, to be safe.

Mydei 10 charge consumed to activate Godslayer, be God. -3HP to Blazing Axe Mitachurl. Blazing Axe Mitachurl is defeated.

Sure, that the enemy has fallen, his spear idles, looking up to search for his companions where they still stand. Alive. Most of them, anyway. He doesn’t know Lingsha well enough to discern her expression. Was she disappointed? He nearly scoffs, the cutting edge of her words on his skin is hollow now – bravado falling away as he examined her and Sunday. “Heal if you can. Stay on your guard, unless you just like being disappointed.”  They were the only words that felt safe to say, forcibly pushing down the knee-jerk response in his head, telling him that he had let himself lose a countryman on a field of battle.

As he shifts to the ground to examine the woman, the room begins to rearrange itself. Pieces of scorched flooring and torn bits seem to mend as if caught in a time-spell from one of Oronyx’s devoted. “What is this?” The question is flat, angry and accusing and directed to the room as a whole.

while checking to ensure the woman's safety , he was able to witness Mydei one after the other strike these enemies without taking a single blow -- it was unlike anything he had seen prior , it almost left him in awe .

his attention returned to Elysia , staring down after examining , hesitant . . " She's still alive for the time being , though . . . "

his attention rose back to the battlefield , with Mydei being the sole victor , standing among the enemies he defeated . . . had it been over ?

no , that might be too easy to say , everything began reforming in an instant , returning the room back to the state it was once they entered , with the first set of corpses gone , new enemies rose in their place , while he was clearly dreading such . . . he felt -- almost revitalized .

he rose up , standing in front of Elysia -- refusing to let a companion fall for good . " sorry , I'll attempt to not be a burden this time , don't let me distract you . "

SUNDAY (10/10HP) rolls 4 energy.

[3 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) uses Benison of Paper and Rites on ELYSIA (10/10HP)

ELYSIA’s next damage dealing attack will do +1 additional damage

" Allow this to help you , even if just a little . "

in a desperate attempt to energize her enough to stand and be at ease just for a bit , unaware of her current status behind him , his little friends rose out of the book once more , swirling and even cheering for elysia , trying to keep her motivated and well .

[1 energy] SUNDAY (10/10HP) hits WINDER GOON (25/25HP) with Gleaming Admonition. Roll: ( iforgor but it hit), -1HP

WINDER GOON (24/25HP)