The moment that Fish realizes they are no longer hidden in the shadow of Gwen, they disengage and flit backwards. They hop several times to push the distance between them and whatever was happening. Or at least Fish thinks they do, the brief rush of adrenaline has their mind moving before their body does. After a moment of lucidity, they realize they cannot move, at least not backwards.

Fish clicks a button in their vambrace and a slingshot apparatus pops up. Quickly, they strafe to the side to clear from the path of the charge and disrupt the deeptusks. They pull a flask into the slingshot from their bag, a milky black liquid inside. Fish pulls back and fires, the flask arcing past the other adventurers to smash into the ground around the deeptusks. Smoke quickly plumes up out of the grass to cover the beasts in smoke. It doesn't cause them any harm, but it breaks line of sight long enough for Fish to leave the zone of immediate harm hopefully.

The bird fluffs up their feathers and attempts to shake the dust and glitter from their feathers. You would think living near enough to Morrigan Moonweaver would make you resistant to glitter, but the unfortunate thing about glitter was it was persistent. Fish wasn't sure what it was, but they were hidden before the glitter and now they weren't. Maybe if they cleared themselves of it they could dip back into the shadows.

---

ROUND SUMMARY: 
Fish tries to create some distance and strafes to the side before trying to clean themselves of glitter after firing a smoke flask into the crowd of deep tusks.

1. Firing Smoke Flask

2. Spending action to attempt cleaning

”-Morrigan Buttface Moonweaver!!”

Perhaps things might have been peaceful if it weren’t for the sudden intrusion of Morrigan’s favorite nuisance in the world. What was SHE doing here? Morrigan supposed it was not unheard of for the goody two-shoes little snot nosed half-dwarf to be driven by noble things like charity or whatever. Barf. Their relationship had gotten better over the few months - rocky hatred eroded away to something more like friction - but that didn’t mean they couldn’t make fun of her. And as she approached them with a young girl Morrigan didn’t recognize, they stuck one finger in their ear to indicate they couldn’t hear her, and the other was held aloft in a half-hearted greeting wave. Couldn’t have the brat going off to Cantio and calling them rude. That was all.

“LA-LA-LA, I CAN’T HEAR YOU SO I CAN ONLY ASSUME YOU’RE SAYING WONDERFUL THINGS ABOUT ME.”

Of course, Astrid Stormstone was not the only bug who felt the need to buzz their way into this not-date. Most notably, the girl with Astrid, and a big minotaur fellow who seemed to be familiar with her. Well, wasn’t someone just miss popular today? If anyone else had joined them on this excursion, Morrigan did not see them, on account of their own preoccupation with the thing they were here to actually investigate.

Perhaps someone was speaking to them after they plugged their ears and approached the bubble’s surface, but if that was the case, Morrigan did not catch it.

The sudden intrusion in their mind nearly made them shriek. There was only one creature they knew with the capability to project their voice in such a way, and the tactless behavior to utilize that power in such a way.

“Double date?” Morrigan squawked, indignant. “DOUBLE DATE? I’ll have you know this is a professional outing between old friends and work colleagues.” Not that they were opposed to a date, though one with Astrid Stormstone and her little girlfriend sounded a lot more like babysitting than their idea of fun. They’d much rather their quality time with Kvasir not be so rudely interrupted the way it was now - wait. Not the point, Morrigan. “Anyways, do you mind, Hylltywyll? I’m in the middle of something rather pressing at the moment.”

”Work colleagues? Ooh, I didn't know you were a double door. I guess people do press against those."

Morrigan did not dignify that with a response. Rather, Hylltywyll might be able to literally feel their irritation like a wave. Perhaps he might even be able to aggrieved middle finger Morrigan was currently projecting his way with the fury of a fellblood scorned. A middle finger they would not physically hold up for the sake of the audience. Please. There were children present.

Okay, so they couldn’t really give Hylltywyll the middle finger because their hands were currently occupied, but it was the thought that counter. It was worth noting their attention was still focused on popping the bubble, the ambient noise of their surroundings reduced to a dull hum. They pressed their hands to the simmering, miasmic surface…

And the world exploded in a cacophony of light.

“Ack-“

Shielding their face with their arms was not enough to shield them from the onslaught of colors and light and stardust. Some of the essence of color got into their open mouth and it tasted a lot like humiliation. The outward force of the bubble’s explosion nearly forced them off their feet in surprise. Even though Morrigan had been the one to make the opening, the magical pressure encapsulated within the bubble and inexplicably caught them off guard.

Eventually, the dust settled, leaving behind an army of very glitter-covered adventurers, the magical substance glimmering under the warm light of the pink - pink? - yes, pink sky, and one rather sheepish Morrigan left behind with the implicit knowledge of exactly how people normally felt after a few minutes in their presence.

“I… meant to do that!” They insisted, sweeping into a showman’s bow. As they straightened, they saw the bubble was gone entirely.

In its place, beasts of burden.

Morrigan spent scant enough time in King’s Valley to understand what these beasts were, though their tusks and their giant, furry statures were nothing to laugh at. For a moment, the word felt spellbound. Caught in a trance, one breath before the exhale, the second in a play before the audience witnesses an unspeakable tragedy… the world felt as if it had been frozen still. No one moved, no one breathed. Adventurers swayed back and forth to the tune of whispers, as if they could not decide whether to move forward or retreat - as if they’d been lured into a trance.

They noted with no small amount of satisfaction that they’d been correct in their assumption. The temptation to voice such a thought was strong, though with the Wildabeasts staring them down, the magic humming a melancholy tune in the air, they held their tongue.

Oh, but rest assured they were going to be smug about this when all was said and done.

Insufferably so.

And then - in a blink, a single shift - all hell broke loose.

“Shit!” Morrigan bore the unfortunate curse of being one of the closest to the bubble when it popped - which meant they were one of the closest to the raging herbivores as they began their stampede. The earth began to shake, a horrible drumbeat to their own demise. Madam Medb did always say that curiosity killed the cat.

Yet, satisfaction brought it back every time.

Morrigan had to be as lucky as a cat, too - for they’d yet to run out of their nine lives.

The sand at their feet seemed to stir as a golden tattoo on the nape of their neck glowed like molten ichor. Their feet moved of their own accord - the world shifted in a blur around them as the magic painfully took root where it was not meant to.^[1] The scarab’s magic was no joke. Eons of desert warrior training, none of which Morrigan possessed; but they knew how to use it to propel themselves out of a tight spot. Gold dust trailed after them as they propelled themselves through the air, corporeal form dissipating for the briefest of moments. Just enough to bring them safely out of the line of fire…

The beasts continued their rampage.

Morrigan stumbled, jolting out of the way before they could be crushed underfoot. They were spared, for now.

Kvasir and the others in the line of fire weren’t.

Morrigan’s heart stammered.

Their body moved before they could. Even before the thougjt formed in their mind, the decision already made for them - because there wasn’t really a choice, not this time. Morrigan Moonweaver was a liar and a bastard and a scumbag cheat, and perhaps there was still time to abandon ship. Perhaps they would truly have done so if they’d had time to consider their options. Yet there was some vulnerable kind of naked honesty in trusting one’s base instinct. Which, right now, meant summoning Bubbles to their side - the dragon who picked Morrigan up, brought them to the front of the line, and allowed the charlatan to steal the show.

“Hey! All eyes on me!” They cried, raising their hands in the air, silverbells clanging with the showman’s boom of their voice. They’d never quite attracted a crowd like this.^[2]

It was a risk.

Morrigan was no stranger to taking risks.

Their chest heaved, adrenaline a dangerous truth; only their shaking hands clasped together as they began their sworddance betrayed their fear. Yet, they’d acted before they thought. The charlatan was no stranger to impulsivity. They were also, however, utterly unused to the prospect of impulsive actions occurring for the sake of others, rather than serving themselves. Any other day, any other strangers, and Morrigan would have just fled, cut their losses, thrown others to the wolves.

It was a damn shame that there were others to serve this time around.

Once more they clapped, the jingle of the bells echoing about the glade as light as the laughter of the fae. Teeth gritted, Morrigan took the first step. And another. An ethereal presence gliding across the stage, traces of fear dissolving as they moved. Step, step, step across the earth.

See, Morrigan was comfortably aware of their own limitations. Allowed themselves to live in odious envy of what they didn’t have that they so often neglected what they did possess. They did not have a lick of magic. They could not hold the raw power and force of a combatant. The gods had not blessed them with any skills which they did not forge themselves under the heat of the desert and sheer, unrepentant spite. So what they did have was a sharp wit and sharper aspirations… and today, they’d play to their strengths. The joy of entertainers and the charm of someone who couldn’t stand the spotlight not being on them. The allure which even rampaging monsters were able to resist.

And above them, Bubbles let out a roar of pure flame, hotter than the Zeinavian sun, and just the perfect backdrop for them to dance.^[B1]

Just this one opportunity. A single second to turn this tide of battle in their favor.

They just had to trust the others would hold the line.

---

ROUND SUMMARY

Morrigan remains at the RIGHT FLANK.

To avoid being trampled by the stampeding Deeptusks, Morrigan DODGES with SPIRIT WALK and throws themselves out of the line of fire. To keep the others from getting hurt, Morrigan makes the decision to ALLURING TRANCE and focus the attention of the beasts on them, and off of their allies.

After moving Morrigan, Bubbles ATTACKS the nearest Deeptusk with a breath of flame.

1. DEFENSIVE ACTION - Morrigan teleports out of the way with Spirit Walk.

SPOILER: Click to show

Scarabs become inherently bonded to their Tattoo upon being chosen, so much so that their very soul is already become attached too and dwelling within the mark, ready to make its next journey should the Scarab fall. This same esoteric bonding allows the Scarab to Once per topic launch their mark in any direction as it takes on a spirit form and moves through any solid object, stopping once twenty feet has been traversed. At this point the Scarabs physical form reshapes from their Spiritual Mark placing them in the exact location that the spirit form ended.

2. DEBUFF ACTION - Morrigan calls the Deeptusks to pay attention to them with ALLURING TRANCE, augmented by BELLS.

SPOILER: Click to show

Alluring Trance: You begin to dance with seemingly otherworldly movements that grab the attention of others, drawing their gaze and focus with each step you take. Twice per topic, you can jingle your bells to attract those around you, causing them to focus on you instead of others. Enemies who hear the bells will turn their focus to you and away from your allies. Spells, attacks, and abilities used by the affected must target the Bard instead of anyone else. This will also end any active effects on your allies that were cast by the enemies.

Mystic Bells: The Muse of Dance has bestowed upon you two small, silver bells that can be extremely soothing, or very annoying. These bells can be worn on your person and can even be manipulated by the owner, allowing you to increase or decrease the sound the bells give off at will.

B1. ATTACK ACTION - Bubbles uses Flame Breath against the Deeptusks

Active Subclasses
Scarab
Transmuter

Passives

Gauntlets of Ginma (1/1 Hit Prevention)

SPOILER: Click to show

A pair of overgrown, magical gauntlets made of stone and covered in moss and small white flowers. These gauntlets provide one hit prevention, and allow the wearer to smash through stone as if it were glass, and lift natural boulders more than twice their weight. The abilities of these gauntlets will last as long as they have a hit prevention left.

Crystal Ball

SPOILER: Click to show

A small, weightless glass ball that is magical in nature but seems to have no unique qualities. It weighs nothing, can not be used as a weapon and appears to just float around your person. It can not be controlled or commanded, and passively hovers around you with a mind of its own. However this magical ball has a unique effect, it records everything that the owner sees, keeping a collection of their memories and experiences within the glass ball. While not in combat you can hold the glass orb and watch your memories play out through it. Whatever the glass orb was able to record can be retrieved and viewed later.

Arcane Glasses

SPOILER: Click to show

When wearing these special glasses, one can easily see magic in effect. By focusing their gaze and concentration on an object they can discern permanent enchantments from temporary enchantments, and even one wholly unskilled in magic can discern magic effects. While looking at a spell or enchanted weapon, you learn everything about that spell or enchantment. You can also identify what kind of magical effect or enchantment is placed on a weapon or item.

Disjoint Tattoo

SPOILER: Click to show

This tattoo allows you to manipulate your joints in a very abnormal way. This means you can do things like spinning your head completely around, rotate your arms and legs in awkward directions and even get creative with the way you move your limbs. This only effects the joints and does not apply to body parts that could not normally move.

Witcher Pitcher Leaf

SPOILER: Click to show

A tattoo of a leaf from the Witcher Pitcher plant found in the Marsh Flats. While dormant, this tattoo can detect magic, and will vibrate the closer it gets to rare and mysterious magic. It will ignore you and any of those you are frequently around, however if a new source of magic is detected, it will vibrate.

Once per topic you can activate the tattoo to cause two large plant vines to sprout from the tattoo, directed at someone within arms reach of you. The vines will wrap around one of the targets limbs and will prevent that person from using that limb or moving away from you for one post.

Tracker Extraordinaire

SPOILER: Click to show

On top of the Hunter’s Investigation Kit, they have a collection of heightened physical and innate senses. Physical senses such as smell, touch, hear, sight, and taste. Innate senses like, a perfect sense of direction, the feeling that something seems off or misplaced, and other such subconscious communications. This allows the hunter to pick up on clues or tracks that would other wise be hidden.

Hylltywyll spared only an annoyed glare at the obnoxiously loud Minotaur that had come up to the group. It looked like the big oaf hadn't even noticed Hylltywyll's presence, which he was fine with.

Hmmm... Looked like he didn't leave as strong an impression on this one as he did with Tsarra. Or she just couldn't recognize him under the hat and mask. He didn't have any of his new clothing back then.

"How about now?" He asked after removing his mask, flashing her a trademark mischievous smile.

He could see the look of recognition in her eyes, and tell she wished he wasn't here. That just made his smile grow slightly wider before he put the mask back on his face. Her false chipper tune was rather entertaining.

"Aye, I remember ya now! Been almost two years I think! Glad ta see ya found some clothes."

"Hmph." He let out a slightly annoyed huff at the comment. Yes, he'd been without clothes, but he'd been just fine without them. He only had some now because he liked having them, not because he had to have them. Well, whatever. Hylltywyll held out his arms and showed off his outfit, his poncho swishing nicely through the grass.

"Yes, I like them." He said out loud with his own slightly false chipper attitude.

Meanwhile, Hylltywyll had been enjoying a mental conversation with the purple Fellblood. After announcing himself to the group, he had noticed Morrigan couldn't hear him. Their ears were stuffed with something, likely to drown out the subtle whispers around them. Not such a bad idea, given the nature of Fae. The whispers could indeed be something harmful or mind-altering. It wasn't a far reach to assume so. But, rendering oneself deaf did make communication difficult. He simply repeated what he said directly into Morrigan's head through the mental connection.

“Double date? DOUBLE DATE? I’ll have you know this is a professional outing between old friends and work colleagues.” Morrigan replied. Hylltywyll smirked beneath his mask at the indignant squawk of a response. Annoying the Fellblood was unreasonably entertaining. “Anyways, do you mind, Hylltywyll? I’m in the middle of something rather pressing at the moment.”

"Work colleagues? Ooh, I didn't know you were a double door. I guess people do press against those." Hylltywyll replied with a smirk, jabbing at Morrigan with the joke he knew only the Fellblood would understand. Knowing how angry his joke made them, feeling the sensation of a middle finger being held up at him through the mental link, only made him chuckle to himself. He would never let them live down that he had turned them into a door that one time. He wondered if he'd get a chance to turn Morrigan into something else fun during this situation. It'd be even more entertaining knowing they weren't alone this time. Well, alone if they didn't count the other talking door that had been in that cellar with them.

Hylltywyll was having fun until there was a horrible flash of light. He held his hands up in front of him, but didn't feel anything like harm. Looking at himself, he realized he had been covered by horrible sparkling glitter. UGH! He hated glitter!

He was completely unphased by the oddly colored sky now visible, his focus onthe only one who could be responsible for causing this mess, the Fellblood holding their hand up to the now popped magical bubble, and growled angrily. There was hardly any time to chew them out though, as he noticed the herd of deeptusks looking ready to charge the group. Astrid was already moving her attention away from Morrigan as well to focus on the impending danger. Well, she was good at fighting, judging from the last time they'd met. She fought the cultists just fine. And he could sense a lot of magic in her. He'd leave the fighting to her and the Minotaur.

He had other things to do than fight deeptusks. As powerful as Hyll was, fighting big beasts wasn't really his area of expertise. Fighting other spellcasters, causing trouble, and stealing from people. Those were where he excelled most.

Hylltywyll walked over to stand next to the fox-eared man that had been with Morrigan, placing a hand on his own chest as he trotted over. When he removed his hand, on the front of his blue poncho, a black handprint was left. He felt the magic of the marking take hold, giving him some protection from magic and linking to his mind, though the connection was incomplete without anyone else bearing the mark for him to communicate with. He'd fix that.

"Hello. So, you're Morrigan's work colleague? Don't know how you stand working with them." He greeted them. He held up a hand, the palm black like it was painted with some shadowy liquid. "Would you like a handprint in these trying times?"

The man took his hand, Hylltywyll leaving a black handprint on Kvasir's palm, imparting the benefits of the mark. That was easier than expected.

“MORRIGAN MOONWEAVER!” Kvasir yells, voice cracking around the edges. “I JUST TOLD YOU TO BE CAREFUL! YOU’RE TAKING YEARS OFF OF MY LIFE!”

He chuckled to himself as Kvasir shouted at Morrigan, knowing the Fellblood couldn't hear thanks to their stuffed ears. He wasn't usually one to be so helpful as act as a messenger, but this message would be fun to hear Morrigan's reaction to. Using the mental link he'd formed with Morrigan earlier, he spoke directly into their mind.

"Your boyfriend says you're taking years off of his life."

---

Remaining in the Right Flank

Action 1- applying Inked Marking to self
Action 2- applying Inked Marking to Kvasir

SPOILER: Click to show

Passives-
Inked Marking:
Those with an Inked Marking will also know the exact whereabouts of others with the markings, able to speak with and track others affected by the tattoos.
Bestowed Defense:
Upon having an Inked Marking applied, you gain two magical hit preventions against a spell of any domain. These hit preventions will remain for as long as you have the tattoo or until they are consumed and protect against both physical and mental spells. The tattoo will continue to remain even after the hit preventions have been consumed.

Mind Parasite (on Morrigan and Astrid)
Hylltywyll's Shady Shelter
Vampiric Heritage- Chaos Touched
Expanded Mind
Infinite Soul
Mask of Memories
Lucky Clover
Flower Crown
Brain Helmet
Sun Sparked Goggles

"CAAAAWWWWWWW! CAWWWW CAWWWW!"

Not far from the Witch, her familiar spreaded his wings above the scene, croaking in frustration when competition entered the field: Misfit was in many senses exactly like Mischief, and also the opposite. When the white raven took the sky to keep Mischief company, their croaks filled the air, and made Kamille stop for a minute.

And listen.

Not to the fae - although that... song... seemed to be wiggling its way into the forefront of her attention, taking her from the planning, and the situation, and all of the people around her-

No, it was not the song. It was the -hiss- directly in her ear, the Chthonian fairy directly connected to her getting her fill out of some kind of spell being sent her way. She didn't notice it before because it was so much going on around, but it wouldn't take long before the fairy's protection ended [1]. There was only so much it could do. The Witch looked around, and noticed Kalaf didn't seem to be affected [2] - if anything, the fae's song seemed to only stirr his anger, as he whipped his spiky tail on the ground, restless. Directly behind her, however, she could feel Hektor pull at her cloak and stiffen his body, his attitude suddenly gone. Poe looked abnormally silent.

And then, a familiar voice hit her, making her whip her head around and curving her lips in a smile, even if the raven skull mask she wore made it hard to tell.

"Galant as ever, Lord Sarne! Good morning! What a conspicuous day for us to meet! I wish the situation was a bit less dire for us to share a few words!"

Because even if nothing had happened yet, she could feel the tension, and she didn't take long to turn her head to the bubble before them. Kamille didn't have a clue at how to approach it and what to do about it, and for the first time that day - first of many, she could feel it - she was regretting Étienne's resolution of not coming. Old far probably would know something, or at least what to do. Looking up, she knew Misfit and Mischief would be able to act as her eyes, and report if they saw something unusual... more unusual.

But she didn't need to wait much longer, and a colorful puff of dust engulfed the entire region. Kamille tried to act quickly - as someone who had already been drenched in glitter THANK YOU MORRIGAN, and still found some in her feathery cloak from time to time - and stood up in her saddle, outstretching her arms to her sides: trying to avoid the cloud of... glitery spores? to reach the group, Kamille weaved the winds around them to disperse them away [3]. She had no idea what that thing did, and just wasn't ready to find out.

Her concern over Hektor and Poe was shortlived, as she heard Sarne's battlecry. Not only did she feel her heart sweel with courage, it was also a tipping point for the black drake: Kalaf was about to burst with anger, barely containing the flames licking at his teeth. In a moment or so, regardless of the bond they shared, the drake would do what his nature demanded of him. She would not be the one to stand in his way.

One doesn't actually hold a flame to your hands, you know. Not the same way you hold earth or water. You can only... channel it. Direct it.

Recently summoned Disaster still looked at her midly confused, waiting for orders, with a peace in his eyes that didn't anticipate being trampled by a horde of Deeptusks. Almost as if he was just a gigantic, sentient tree. At least until Kamille stretched her hand toward him, and a complete 180 shift took his wooden expression [4]: the embers he got for eyes shone brighter, as if a fire burned behind them. In a sense, it did.

"Disaster, attack!"

Words weren't needed, but an unnatural roar escaped Disaster's gaping mouth. The arcanatek golem didn't waste a moment longer, rushing to meet the first Deeptusk that would have him, each step he took making the ground shake. Magic coursed through his wooden body, ice trickling up the wood in a web pattern [5], as the golem weaved its own spell. Clearly the order to "attack" didn't include self preservation, as Disaster faced head on the brunt of the charge of one Deeptusk with open arms, ready to stop it on its tracks... and apparently glue itself to it, trying to grab it by the tusks and have the cold web that covered his body work its way down their front legs and stick them to the ground.

And as Disaster ran towards its chosen combatent, Sarne and his group surrounded another, leaving one left. Leathery wings stretched out to her sides, as massive as she ever saw before. The drake's muscles tensed, holding up the energy to release in one, powerful leap. One, two beat of his wings, and then they were once more pressed agaist his sides, as the massive frame of Kalaf jumped in the air only to get enough height to descend upon the last Deeptusk in one powerful, swift move: claws as black as his scales outstretched before his body, Kalaf put the entire force of his fall on top of the last Deeptusk, attempting to pin it against the ground and render it docile[6]. Kamille felt the anticipation of the drake, as Kalaf made his intentions clear through their bond he wished to sink his teeth into its neck.

Poe would act faster. Poe knew her place, but she also knew when to take an opportunity when it presented itself to her. The Witch sat on Kalaf's saddle with the confidence that nothing would be able to take her out [7], but Poe and Hektor had been grabbing onto it for their dear lives when Kalaf started to move to pounce on the Deeptusk. Lord Sarne's battle cry filled them with boldness now that the impact of the landing had barely faded from their rattling bones, and Poe made a choice. Her katana in hand, making sure Kalaf had the Deeptusk secured between his claws, the Black Quill jumped, aiming to sink her weapon behind the wild beast's skull.

Hektor saw a few battles before. None like that. Does it all happen so fast like that? What should he do? Should he wait for an order? Should-

Courage filled his heart - or maybe it was recklessness - when he stretched his hand toward Kalaf's victim. True to the youngster's confidance, the Apprentice shot his best shot: an ice spike formed at his palm, aimed at whatever part of the Deeptusk he could see clearly.

[1]Chthonian Fairy protection against mental effects 1/1 used
[2]Sure footed
[3]Windtalker
[4]Arcane activation
[5]Frost web
[6]Savage pin
[7]Secure saddle
[8]Ice spike

---

Action summary:

The group remains on the left flank. Sarne's battle cry keeps everyone from being affected by the fear effect, on top of giving them courage to attack and bonus on physical attacks.

Kamille:
Action one: Windtalker to keep the cloud of spores away from the group
Action two: Activating the Arcanatek golem's combatent state

Disaster:
Action one: Runs towards one Deeptusk and uses Frost web to try to hold it to the ground, physically holding it and taking the hit

Kalaf:
Action one: Jumps on the Deeptusk that is left and tries to use Savage Pin on it, holding it to the ground

Poe:
Action one: Attacks with her katana, trying to bury it behind the Deeptusk's skull (going for Kalaf's one)

Hektor:
Action one: Throws an Ice spike towards the Deeptusk (also going for Kalaf's one)

Astrid struggles to stifle a snicker at Morrigan’s reaction to her greeting. Did they hear her? Oh, they must have, she’s pretty loud when she wants to be. With a sickly sweet smile, she wiggles her fingers at them in return

Astrid can’t help but be genuinely amused by watching Cypress fawn over meeting Kvasir. After all, he’s like her hero. “Hot leaf juice sounds great!” she says chipperly. “First thin’s first, we gotta deal with all a’ this.”

Shaa's rumbling voice nearly drowns out the whispers in her ears. "SHAA!" she exclaims with a grin. Not so long ago, Astrid made a trip of seeing him as the new leader of the Fighter's Guild and thinks about it fondly. "I ain't sneakin' anywhere! Ya know this armor ain't good fer it!" With another laugh, she raps her knuckles against her cuirass. "An' ya ain't gotta worry about touchin' it, Morrigan's got that covered." She jabs a thumb over to where Morrigan has made some attempt to pop the bubble or something.

Morrigan. That was the name of the person who was giving the large Minotaur the heebie jeebies. Astrid seemed to know her so he was willing to let his wariness go for the moment but he would definitely have to keep an eye on them. “All right cool cool. You are more sneaky than me so always have a hard time gaging those kinds of things.. at any rate, I’m glad to see you here. If we are lucky, maybe we’ll get some punchy punchy in.” He does some shadow boxing in the air against an unseen enemy. “I haven’t had a decent scrap for a minute, I’m pretty sure I’m due.”

“Aye, I’m sure somethin’ fun will be happening,” she responds, turning back to the group only to hear someone new enter the conversation. Astrid wouldn't describe Hyl's voice as familiar, but it is certainly unexpected. She looks at the little guy, now adorned with a hat, mask, and poncho with some confusion. Who the heck is this guy? "Erm, has it?" she nervously asks. Admittedly, last time she saw the gremlin Hylltywyll was before she ever met Bellighul. That was one of the first few adventures she went on.

"Sorry, I... don't remember ya... Must've been a while?" Her eyes cut over to Morrigan, Kvasir, and lastly Cypress before shrugging. "Wouldn't call it a 'double date' but close enough."

When Morrigan suddenly outbursts about the double date comment, Astrid’s cheeks nearly burst as she struggles to hold in a laugh. “Actually, let’s call it a double date,” she says with a wink. “Can’t imagine another reason Morrigan would be out here. Doin’ somethin’ good? Unheard a’!”

Hmmm... Looked like he didn't leave as strong an impression on this one as he did with Tsarra. Or she just couldn't recognize him under the hat and mask. He didn't have any of his new clothing back then.

"How about now?" He asked after removing his mask, flashing her a trademark mischievous smile.

Contrary to Hyll's belief, he did in fact leave a large impression on Astrid, it's just that she doesn't recognize him until he removes his mask. When he does, her expression drops. "Oh Avasha," she mutters. Honestly, if she never saw the troublemaking gremlin fae again, Astrid might have died content. Then again, if there are fae shenanigans afoot, then of course this guy would be around.

Putting on a somewhat false chipper tune, she says, "Aye, I remember ya now! Been almost two years I think! Glad ta see ya found some clothes."

Speaking of a long time since seeing someone, Astrid spots the stealthy Shun approaching and waves excitedly. Last time she saw her was before the battle with Scern! “HEY! Speakin’ a’ bein’ almost two years, hope yer alright!”

It's about this time that the bubble bursts and glitter covers the entire group. Astrid immediately turns to Morrigan, assuming they're the problem here (and to be fair, they are part of it). "MORRIGAN!!" she shrieks before spotting the Deeptusks. "...Actually, I'll kick yer butt later, we got trouble!"

Before long, Shaa and Morrigan jump into the fray, which is nice because as Astrid turns back to Cypress, she finally notices the two amorphous spirits lingering nearby. Her expression drops. “Why the heck are you here?” she demands, which receives no answer from the spirits. Okay, fine, admittedly Astrid’s been feeling really strange, almost anxious in a way, since being covered in the glitter. What the heck did Morrigan do to everyone? Obviously, the glitter is their fault.

“Fine, fine, since yer here, help keep Cypress safe, got it?” One of the spirits obliges in the way of floating closer to Cypress, looking down at her with empty, glowing voids for eyes. It does not emote. It does not speak. It simply looks at her, acknowledging her as its new ward. Being in its presence, while somewhat creepy, also feels empowering.^[1]

Astrid looks at Cypress and puts her hands on her shoulders. “Alright, we did a bunch a’ magic practice. Ya’ve gotten good with potions. Show ‘em what ya got!” Then she kisses her forehead and turns to face the oncoming onslaught.

Warmth emanates around her and the rest of the group and clears her mind.^[2] It also helps ease the anxious energy roiling in Spicy Pawsage and Arcus. That certainly makes it easier to think, which also gives Astrid a moment to decide what to do. She glances around at other groups across the field. Most others have chosen to attack the Deeptusks, but she remembers from one of her field missions with Taki that Deeptusks are generally gentle and don’t attack for no reason. Astrid’s brow furrows.

“Maybe the whispers are affectin’ the Deeptusks too? Or that stuff that’s all goopy on ‘em? I’m gonna go watch Shaa’s back, try ta keep Morrigan from gettin’ crushed, an’ maybe take a closer look. Cleanin’ ‘em up might help… Might help us too. We’re dealin’ with somethin’ wacky here, an’ I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s got ta do with the Desolate Knight’s appearance.”

Putting her hands together, Astrid gathers up some magic and conjures up a duplicate of herself.^[3] Giving Bstrid a high five, the Replicant turns and creates another who then creates another, giving the group a total of three additional Astrids.^[4,5] “Alright, Alphabetstrids, we’re here ta keep the squishy folks safe an’ uh… Be real supportive!” All three Replicants give a joking salute and take up a protective formation around those who decide to hang back.

Astrid rushes over to Arcus and climbs into the armored saddle. “Let’s go, Spicy!” she says before riding off towards the approaching Deeptusks. Arcus’ feet gallop, and his wings pump hard and lift them into the air.^[6] Spicy Pawsage follows, rushing through the colorful grass towards the angry beasts with the other spirit following her.

The Alphabetstrids wave them off only for Dstrid to tilt her head and realize that Buttfellow is just standing there, lacking the ability to really take any action or think for himself. “What the… Hey, get goin’ too!” she shouts. Magic flickers across Buttfellow’s misshapen metal body, and runes start to glow. His posture straightens up, and suddenly the golem looks like it can actually have a singular thought: fight.^[7] The golem rushes forward, running with heavy footfalls behind Astrid and Spicy Pawsage. Golden runes glow across its body until they pulse out in a wave of golden light that wraps around the golem’s form as a protective barrier.^[8]

“SHAA! MORRIGAN!” Astrid calls as she charges up where the sand pit is trying to swallow up the mighty beasts. “I’m gonna try cleanin’ one of ‘em off an’ see if it does anythin’ ta calm ‘em down!” The fiery blasts aren’t doing much to help, so with a grimace, Astrid focuses her magic into her hammer^[9] and does a fly-by touch cast of a cleaning spell on one of the Deeptusks,^[10] aiming for one that is hopefully not currently being blasted by flames.

Spicy Pawsage doesn’t exactly get that memo. He sees fire. He has fire. He breathes fire at one of the beasts.^[11]

Buttfellow lags behind slightly and will arrive next turn.

---

SUMMARY:

Astrid wraps up conversations with the gang. She directs one Spirit Guardian to defend Cypress. Astrid summons Replicants who also summon Replicants, for a total of Bstrid, Cstrid, and Dstrid. She then charges in on Arcus to catch up to Shaa and Morrigan with Spicy Pawsage following. Dstrid activates Buttfellow’s combat state to have him catch up, and the golem gives himself a hit prevention with Armor of Faith. Astrid lets Shaa and Morrigan know that she’s going to try cleaning the goop off one of the Deeptusks and casts Spring Cleaning through her hammer in a fly-by casting. Spicy Pawsage breathes fire at one of the Deeptusks.

Shaa and Morrigan are now within Astrid’s Spirit Guardian’s Spirit Shroud and receive the BUFFS allies get. The Deeptusks are DEBUFFED by the same shroud.

If they remain near Cypress, Bstrid, Cstrid, Dstrid, Kvasir, Shun, Cypress, and Hyll are also affected by the BUFFS of Spirit Shroud gained by the Spirit Guardian assigned to protect Cypress.

Astrid and gang are at the RIGHT FLANK.

1. Spirit Guardian: Shroud abilities

SPOILER: Click to show

while within the 25ft diameter shroud; Allies: x2 elemental spell abilities. Enemies: spells downgraded one level, reduced spell duration by one post, halved spell damage dealt, no benefits to speed buffs/cannot teleport, lose armor hit preventions, enchantments on weapons are deactivated

2. Kvasir’s Blessing of the Mind to clear mind-altering effect on Astrid, Spicy, Buttfellow, Arcus
3. SUPPORT ACTION - Astrid, cast Replicant
4. SUPPORT ACTION - Bstrid, cast Replicant
5. SUPPORT ACTION - Cstrid, cast Replicant
6. BUFF ACTION - Arcus, cast Flight
7. SUPPORT ACTION - Dstrid, Arcane Activation on Buttfellow [post 1/4]
8. DEFENSIVE ACTION - Buttfellow, cast Armor of Faith on self [Mana Bulwark 1/3 spells, 1/1 HP added]
9. Spellblade - Arcane Focus
10. DEBUFF? ACTION - Astrid, cast Spring Cleaning on Deeptusk
11. OFFENSIVE ACTION - Spicy Pawsage, flame breath

Wound/HP tracking:
-Astrid [0/6 wounds, see below for HPs]
-Buttfellow [0/4 wounds, 1/1 HP]
-Dancing Chain [1/1 HP provided, regenerates every 3 posts]
-Blu P Rint (AKA Blupee) [0/4 wounds, cannot take actions]
-Spicy Pawsage (flavored as a hellhound) [0/4 wounds, has fire breath, juggernaut charge, gore attack]
-Arcus (flavored as a pegasus) [0/4 Wounds, Armored Banner 2/2 HP, Sleigh Bell]
-Bstrid - Replicant [0/1 wounds]
-Cstrid - Replicant [0/1 wounds]
-Dstrid - Replicant [0/1 wounds]
-Spirit Guardian [4/4 HP] - w/ Astrid
-Spirit Guardian [4/4 HP] - w/ Cypress

Active Passive Items/Abilities:

SPOILER: Click to show

-Cantio’s Eternity Ring
-Night Vision
-Bull’s Strength
-Baloth Muscles (right arm) - bonk structures good
-Troll King’s Heart - passive regeneration
-Aura of Vulcadreaus/Touch of Divinity - ??
-Book Golem (when present, currently in Pet Pocket) - Spells cannot be countered when in line of sight of Astrid.
-Sun-Sparked Goggles - Cannot be blinded
-Stormraider’s Cloak - not affected by storms, repels rainfall
-Spidersilk boots - can walk on walls and ceilings
-Raider’s Loincloth - Movement speed cannot be reduced in any way
-Red Rogue’s Hood - Can communicate telepathically with another RRH holder
-Phantasmal Diplopic Plate - creates after images, especially while in motion, making it harder to directly target the wearer; gives 3 HP against abilities/spells/effects that would bypass armor, renders enchantments on a weapon that attacks through the armor useless for the attack.
-Knight: Stalwart Armor - ignores attempts to bypass armor
-Knight: Immovable Bastion - can’t be forcibly moved or knocked down
-Knight: Light as a feather - Armor doesn’t count towards item limit
-Knight: Tis But a scratch - half damage from physical sources
-Spellblade: Arcane Soul - Weapon has lightning, ignores resistance/immunity to lightning
-Spellblade: Arcane Focus - Can cast spells through weapon
-Spellblade: One with the Blade - Weapon doesn’t count against carrying capacity
-Spellblade: Always There - Cannot be disarmed of bonded weapon. Can summon weapon.
-Squire: High Quality Armor - Each piece of armor gains +1 HP against physical damage (listed below)
-Spirit Guardian: Shroud abilities - (while within the 25ft diameter shroud) Allies: x2 elemental spell abilities. Enemies: spells downgraded one level, reduced spell duration by one post, halved spell damage dealt, no benefits to speed buffs/cannot teleport, lose armor hit preventions, enchantments on weapons are deactivated
-Spirit Guardian: Spirit abilities - 4 HP per spirit, can grapple and restrain enemies for one post once per topic per spirit

Weapons/Armor:

SPOILER: Click to show

-War Hammer - bludgeoning, Spellblade weapon (lightning), pale ice, Bashing, double strike (Tourney Favor), ranged specialty
-The Doting Dad's Defender - battle hammer w/ ranged, bludgeoning, offhand enchantment (Tourney Favor), effects of ice rune + silvered enchantment + Gerhart’s Guardian Blade (is a fused weapon)
-Weapon Tether - attached to Doting Dad’s Defender and Cuirass
-Helmet (2/2 head HP)
-Icicle Pauldrons + Spitfire Gauntlets (3/3 arms HP)
-Padding, Phantasmal Diplopic Plate (5/5 chest HP) - Briar Shroud attachment
-Greaves (2/2 legs HP, 1/1 lightning HP)
-Rime Mantle (can be activated twice per topic, each activation lasts 2 posts and has 2 HP)
-Boomer Buckler (2/2 shield HP)
-Arcanatek Prosthetic (2/2 arm HP if in Defense Mode, not currently active)
-Flower Crown (1/1 Mind Altering Effects HP)
-Guardian Stuffy (1/1 Mind Altering or Fear Effect HP)
-Bardic Virtuoso: Inspiring Sigil (2/2 Fear/Charm Effects HP)

Recharge Tracking:
-Buttfellow, Arcane Activation [Post 1/4]
-Buttfellow, Mana Bulwark: [1/3 Spells Used]

Subclasses:
-Squire
-Arcanatek Researcher

“HEY! Speakin’ a’ bein’ almost two years, hope yer alright!”

"Yes," I replied to Astrid's cheerful greeting, "I've b-" before I could even finish my sentence, the iridescent sphere that I'd almost bumped into exploded. I squeezed my eyes shut and used my arms to guard against the onslaught of wind and... glitter?

On opening my eyes I was bombarded with sensation. The glitter itched on my skin. The light that reflected every glitter coated surface stabbed my eyes. The quiet murmur that had almost lulled me into the bubble became a demanding shout that pulled at my gut like a bad premonition. MOVE MOVE MOVE MOVE was what the voice was telling me to do. KEEP AT IT DON'T STOP, CHARG- I stumbled a few steps forward like a marionette in the hands of a child before it suddenly faded. Not completely, as I could still hear the voice, but it didn't have the same power in it. I took a breath and looked around. People were casting spells, stuffing their ears, and taking fighting stances. I blinked why the fighti- oh. Was all I thought before Shaa slammed his tail into the ground, summoning his massive antlion pit. I managed to get airborne before the sand could sink beneath my feet, but Shaa's targets- some terrified looking, stampeding Deeptusks- were not so fortunate. The creatures hurtled single mindedly towards who I could only assume to be Morrigan Moonweaver (their signature tattoo sleeve and choice to dance in the face of danger certainly fit my profile for them) at half the speed. Considering they did not waver in their path despite the massive wriggling larvae in the middle of the vortex, I could only assume that the dance with it's vigor, life, grace, strength, swirling limbs and-

I pulled my eyes away from the trickster's form. That was definitely a magic dance.

Instead of watching, I quickly assessed how I could help. There seemed to be a unanimous unspoken agreement to try and pacify the Deeptusks (which is good for my mental health). Astrid's hypothesis seemed reasonable. I'd imagine that the sound that almost had commanded me to move forwards and magic bubble water also had some sort of effect on these guys.

From my vantage point, I locked on to the deeptusk that was at the head of the charge. Doing a little somersault in the air, I primed myself for a nose dive at my target. Wind rushed past my ears until I snapped my wings open right before impact. I landed on the back of the deeptusk, feet first, on its shoulder blades, then leaned forwards to grab the massive curling tusks for balance. Gripping the fur with my feet and slowly stretching out my wings to help balance on the beast as it power trudged through the sand, I started using my hands to slake off the bubble water, and sing a little children's song to try and get it to calm down. Rain soon came from a caster I hadn't been formally introduced to yet, helping me in my endeavor to get the soapy slime off. 

---

Location: RIGHT FLANK

Action 1 : Be Jolly
Action 2 : Wiping deeptusks(?)

Passives:
Cats Grace
Wings

All around, Taki listened in to the various conversations within earshot. She could hear voices both familiar and not, conversations about various things as others arrived and greeted. It seemed things were going to be quite interesting on this outing, so when the big bubble burst apart a few moments later it caught the Orochi by surprise. A kaleidescope of color washed over the group, sparkling and spreading to reveal the presence of others.

Emerging from this glittery cloud was a sky that reminded Taki of pink Orchids that bloomed around the Isles, and a dozen confused Deeptusks covered in some sort of soapy effect similar to the bubble. She and Lady Astrid Stormstone had run a pair of the creatures off earlier in the year, but this dozen seemed disoriented and enraged. They charged at the group, trumpeting loudly as they thrashed their wide tusks about. Heavy footfalls shook the plains, stamping the long grasses and brush almost flat at their passing. Others began to take action across the field as the Dancer's mind filled with strange whispers again, beckoning her into the stampede.

A moment later, Marion Aurea began to emit a brilliant radiance that swept over the area and pushed back the gnawing voices. Vines and various plants burst forth from the ground to hinder the creatures as Rena Brighteyes and Beak both leapt into action. A strange fellow of deep purplish blue skin seemed to share the young elf healer's proclivities, although their methods left something to question. The fellblood let out a loud whistling in an attempt to draw the creatures in and calm them with magic. While she did agree that there was little need for lethality in this situation, Taki was also practical enough to know that protecting the folks behind their lines mattered as well. While this gathering of adventurers was quite capable, as were the assemble regiments of Knights of Duros, the same could not be said for the various caravaneers, smiths, engineers and other support that followed.

Silvery, airy notes rang out over the area as the twin bells on the Dancer's wrists chimed. Taki moved as if she herself had become part spirit, seeming to fade in and out as she approached the charging pack.

Slipping the bamboo walking cane into a loop of her bag, she freed her hands as she approached from it's side. The Deeptusk bellowed in surprise as Taki sprinted at it, unleashing a pair of unarmed strikes against it's forward leg in an effort to stun the limb. Without hesitation, she pivoted on heel and fired off another pair of strikes at the rear leg.

---

Rina and Kamina were compelled by the whispering voices, the Lightning Pixie's eyes filled with terror at the words whispered in her mind. As they were starting to climb out of Taki's pack, a bright glow outside brought the pair to their senses. Looking at each other, they crept carefully back into their hidden traveling home.

"What was that?"

"I'm not sure, but it said it wants to eat everyone..."

"Eat?"

"Mhm"

"We should tell Taki and the others... shouldn't we?"

"Reveal ourselves? Now of...."

As the pair whispered, the pack jostled about again. Outside, an incredibly loud sound repeated itself as if some great beasts outside were stampeding. The sound made the Flitten's wings vibrate, while her sister seemed stunned by the whole affair. They huddled in the dimly lit box as it bounced about, wondering if they should help or stay as the bellowing sounds became unbearably loud.

---

Summary: Taki advances on a stampeding Deeptusk from it's side, unleashing Stunning Blows on a front then rear leg. Kamina and Rina tumble about in their stowaway box after discussing the whispering voices. They're all shielded from it's effect by Marion's Inspiring Presence, at the FRONT

Action 1: Unarmed attack against front leg of a Deeptusk [Stunning Strike, Two Piece, Hands are Weapons,  Baloth Muscles, Bull's Strength]
Action 2: Unarmed attack against rear leg of the same Deeptusk [Stunning Strike, Two Piece, Hands are Weapons, Baloth Muscles, Bull's Strength]

Taki - 0/6 Wounds, 3/3 HP, 1/1 HP vs. Fire
Rina - 0/4 Wounds, Flitten
Kamina - 0/4 Wounds, Lightning Pixie II

Prestige: Sharpshooter 4, Shadow Dancer 4, Brawler 3, BV: Dancer 4

Subclasses: Oniwanban Shadow, Oniwanban Footsoldier

Passives: Aura of Vulcadreus, Surface Scaling, Silent Step, Mystic Bells, One with the Shadows, Shooter's Sense, Far Sight, Quick Draw, Hands are Weapons, Iron Grip, Fighter's Sense, Throwing Arts



Items: 4/12

Augments: Baloth Muscles x7, Bull's Strength, Claws, Disjoint, Extra Arms, Fangs, Gills, Prehensile Tail, Tongue Lash, Troll King's Heart, Kijin Guisegraft

Wearing: Morph Suit, Spring Broach, Summer's Embrace Cloak, Kishin Earthswimmers, Fire Dancer's Bangles

Weapons: Kusarigama [Tourney Favor], Folding Shuriken, Hydra Blood Needles, Walking Sword, Gun Brace, Monk's Spade

Misc: Dragon/Storm/Blizzard Chocolate, Spirit Bottle, Tent, Tool Pouch, Medical Kit, House Key, Sleigh Bell [Rina]

Post Summary:

Surprisingly in control of her magic for once, or seemingly so, Cypress attempts to beckon a downpour (Drizzle) in order to clean the affected Deeptusks in the area. Should any of the Deeptusks avoid or escape Shaa's Sand Lion, she will target it (Slow) in hopes of avoiding it escaping the rain, and/or trampling the Right Flank and one Morrigan Moonweaver sashaying for their life.

---

Cypress closes her eyes, tipping her head down when Kvasir reaches over to pat her; she is practically sparkling when she looks back up at him. His offer for a visit - or a proper introduction - or a whatever it is he’s actually offering - replays in the back of her mind. A thousand different questions jump to the tip of her tongue, none of which she can ask in the moment, because once again she chirps an, “Uh-huh!” sound as she completely forgets how to formulate words.

With a wiggle of her tail and ears, she whirls around to face Astrid, practically vibrating with excitement, “We’re going to have hot leaf juice with Kvasir!” she celebrates in an ecstatic whisper, before promptly correcting herself; her expression going sheepish for a moment, “Tea! I mean, tea with Kvasir! Oh my gosh.”

The satyr bounces on the soles of her hooves - but like Astrid follows up with - they need to focus on this first. Internally, Cypress begs herself to calm and return to the moment because her excitement is already causing foreign flowers to bloom in a circle around her ⁽¹⁾. After a few deep breaths while gazing at the others who have approached - a huge minotaur who is chatting with Astrid and golly does he look powerful - a little scrunkly guy who seems to be speaking to the group - and an avian-like humanoid.

She didn’t see most of them even approach.

“A double date?” she finds herself repeating quizzically; and then, it hits her. Oh! Right, that Morrigan person must be…

Wide-eyed over the presence of all of these capable adventurers that Astrid seems to know in some way, Cypress only half-heartedly pays attention to Morrigan’s squawking behind her at first, but she does feel and hear the explosion that follows their investigation back into the bubble. With her back turned to it, a chill rushes over Cypress as stardust and film spatters across her, and she clasps her hands over her ears with a wince. “Wah! Wha…”

Oh, golly.

“I… meant to do that!”

“Are you sure about that!?” Cypress laments, holding out the damp edges of her skirts - they glitter with starlight and that strange, bubbly oil.

She turns to look at Morrigan, incredulous when the thought finishes itself: this Morrigan person must be Kvasir’s theyfriend… and oh no, they’re kind of an idiot, aren't they? Her distraction has her miss the way that the flower crown on her head gleams once and then fizzles out ⁽²⁾; but it is much easier to notice the Deeptusks charging.

Aren’t… aren’t they usually docile? She swears they are!

A shock of panic and confusion rushes through her; the Deeptusks are fast and they are upset. If it weren’t for Astrid’s nearby voice to ground her, Cypress might have found herself stuck and frozen in fear. She blinks out of it, glancing towards Astrid - but she’s met instead with the ethereal form of something else. Cypress bristles, craning her neck upwards to meet the glowing voids of the spirit hovering near her.

O-oh.

“Um… h-hi.” She greets the spirit uncertainly, “I’m Cypress.”

Astrid looks at Cypress and puts her hands on her shoulders. “Alright, we did a bunch a’ magic practice. Ya’ve gotten good with potions. Show ‘em what ya got!” Then she kisses her forehead and turns to face the oncoming onslaught.

There is admittedly, a lot going on right now; a lot that Cypress is not familiar with. Astrid’s touch is welcome and grounding, but at the same time, she really doesn’t want her to know that she feels overwhelmed by it all. Goodness knows she doesn’t want her to worry, and Cypress wants to prove herself capable. The satyr reaches up to gently clasp her hands around Astrid’s wrists when the girl’s hands settle on her shoulders, and she smiles sheepishly. “Yeah.” She agrees, smile widening as she tips her head slightly when receiving a quick kiss to the forehead.

She has always admired Astrid’s quick-thinking and fearlessness; and to some extent, she thinks she gets it, now. She has to be this way to keep up - they all do. Adventuring is so easily romanticized, especially for someone with as many daydreams as her; but she wants to keep up and she wants to learn even if everything she thinks or has thought about it is probably wrong.

This is something that Astrid loves, and she loves her. If she’s going to spend time with Astrid on adventures like these, by the gods, she will not put her in more danger than there already is. She’s got to get it together.

She squeezes Astrid’s wrists before releasing her and takes a deep breath, “Show ‘em what ya got. Be safe - you, and the rest of the yous, too.”

---

Skelly, who has since been designated into Cypress’ pack- the one just for him, because he is a slimy little guy- has in fact been attempting to walk through the leather pouch towards the center of the field, and finally calms.

He proceeds to blink and lick an eyeball as if nothing has happened.

Weird.

He slips on the goop in the bag and proceeds to vibe on his back. He is very helpful. The raid is welcome for his incredibly valuable assistance. He might even take a nap if the food-giver stops jostling him around.

---

Meanwhile, Cypress tries to use what Astrid had said - and what she hears around her to figure out how she can help - or at least, try to help. Astrid said she was going to go watch Shaa’s back - she has gathered that is the minotaur - and keep Morrigan from getting crushed. The satyr frowns, reaching behind her to shakily clutch the cane sheathed against her back, “Clean them… water? Water would help, but they’re so fast, and I don’t know any spells for water.”

Some of the Deeptusks start to collapse into a sandy pit, and Cypress takes a pace back, gritting her teeth while she processes the chaos. She’s pretty sure she saw a whole entire drake somewhere on the opposite side of the field; and the earth shudders between the Deeptusks, and Buttfellow storming after Astrid.

Everyone is fighting for their lives and the lives of Thunderhoof; and she’ll fight for hers, too. She tugs at the cloak around her neck, triggering a vague arcane aura from it as it activates. Cypress twirls the cane in her hand, channeling every ounce of her desires through her chaotic magical channels which are so determined to fight her every step of the way on her journey - except they’re not fighting her today the way they usually do.

The flowers that have sprung up around her explode into an arcane blue; and the wind around the area begins to pick up, dragging heavy clouds towards the center that threaten to rain. ⁽³⁾ Should any of the Deeptusks escape or avoid Shaa’s Sand Lion, the air around them may distort, causing them to move significantly slower than they should - otherwise, Cypress does not make a second action. ⁽⁴⁾

---

Passives/HP:

(1) Blooming Anklet - Passive

(2) Flower Crown - ( - 1 HP ) Fear/Charm/Mind-Altering Affects

Actions:

(3) Drizzle (Powered up by Spirit Shroud?) - Support Action

SPOILER: Click to show

A spell that allows its caster to make it rain
regardless of the current weather. This is a normal
rainfall that begins to blanket the area. The rain itself
is normal and has no magical properties to it.

(4) Slow (Determined by any escape or avoidance of the Deeptusks in Shaa’s Sand Lion, otherwise Cypress does not take a second action.) - Support Action

SPOILER: Click to show

You can cast this spell on an enemy or other target,
causing them to slow down. During their next post
their speed will be cut in half, causing them to move
very slowly. You walk at a snails pace and your
reactions are incredibly slow.

NPC:
Skelly - He vibe, no actions.

    Perhaps it's just me, but as if instinctively hate was directed not at the middle where the bubble burst, but to someone in the large group to my left. I quickly blow the feeling off...as the wind around me pushes away the cloud of unknown to everyone. Glancing through the mists, the forms of others caught in the blast became sparkly... of course, glitter. I raise the winds to absolutely make sure none of it touches me, lifting myself in the process. Once it's on, there is no telling if it's got some kind of magical adhesive to keep whatever it touches sparkly.

    A little click of my tongue brings Rosemary out of hiding in my hair and to sit on my shoulder. She looks around to figure out what is happening before seeing the large creatures racing towards the group. She claps her hands and a stream of water whips through the air to the left most one, swiping at it quickly around its feet. She clasps her hands as it tightens around the legs to pause it's charge.

    Through the screen of reflective light, I see the three Deeptusks running to us. I grit my teeth, but before I could even figure out a thought to handle them, Gwen and her maids take the lead. With a release of a sigh, I turn to where the bubble was, watching through the particles. With a tilt of my head, I speak out, "An insatiable hunger? Pray, do tell, perhaps try to appease my own endless thirst for knowledge in this sense, do you even mean? If it's so endless, what makes you think that eating more will ever fill it?" 

    I wave my free hand a bit, "I mean, my own delve into this world has barely scratched the surface, you, among many who also tried, trying, and will try and fail to even attempt to grasp it in any form. Even in my memories, this place is brimming with not just knowledge and secrets, but skills, creatures, and mysteries. Let me be the first to warn you before you fight us," I raise my hand to the area where the groups are, "This is not the first battle for our world survival many here have fought. There will be consequences from here on out, for all sides. What kind is up to if you are willing to settle everything by force or words."

    I flick my wrist to watch as the lights around my hand flicker like broken glass for a moment as a wooden box appears. With a rub on what could look to be a button before it snaps open to reveal a single red eye. With a toss, it opens and snatches itself into a crossbow for, the eye watching my movements. I give a grin as I place my hand on my chest, "Before I forget to even ask, as I am sure many of us would like to know. Will you give me your name?"

---

Keyke is located in the Rear

Action 1-Defensive: Windtalker: Your elemental attachment to the realm of air is all encompassing and gifts you with the ability to harness and guide airflow around you up to ten feet in all directions. This culminates in the ability to push and pull objects within ten feet of you that weigh 1 point or less, as well as letting you levitate a foot off the ground permanently.

Action 2-Activate Carl the Crossbow: On a light crossbow sits a scope that holds an ever rotating eye from a cephaloclops. This crossbow, when activated, can float and follow the owner around in battle. Every time the owner attacks, it shoots with them. Enchanted with Blur.

Rosemary- Uses water whip to tighten around front legs of left Deeptusk.

Active/Activated Passives/HP:
Fluency spell
Pass Without Trace

Windtalker- Floating

Carl- Auto shooting from floating crossbow (20/20 arrows)

Inspiring Sigil- hits for fear/charm affects left(1/2)
Phantom Curse(Touched by Death)- get up after 3rd major hit
Dancing Chain- Physical hit prevention (1/1) (Not recharging/3)
Cat's Grace- moving allows no knocking over/knocking off something
Electrical Surge- (0/4 Charges)

NPCs and Pets:
Rosemary- Water Pixie lv 2(Does not count against cap)
Chain of Past- Dancing Chain(Does not count against cap)


True Passives:

SPOILER: Click to show

Space Pocket- infinite storage/quick pull out
Animal speech Necklace- speak to all animals
Mask of Memories- can not be made to forget anything, or have your mind cleared, wiped or erased. Your memories can not be read, altered or affected in anyway.
Veiled Sunhat- sight is unaffected by particles such as snow, sand, or silt.
All Eye- immunity to blinding effects from things like flashes and magic, able to see through vision impairing effects, such as mist, smoke or dirt.
Night Vision- See through all non-magic darkness
Shadow Sight- seeing fellow Shadow Dancers
Blooming Anklet- 5ft radius of flora will bloom
Blood Scent- blood tracking
Life Spark Ear Rings-Attack penetration post after healing
Expanded Mind- know the spell is being cast, and you know everything about it, the domain its from, its element, its effect and any additional bonuses
Cat's Grace-no fall damage below 200ft drop
Sea Legs- Can not be knocked down or reduce speed when on a ship

The bubble’s sudden pop catches Vail off guard, especially since he was now covered in glitter, much like his encounters with a certain charlatan. Seeing as his position is now revealed, the ash lander rises to his feet, taking notice of the two glittery figures also tailing Gwen. One of them seems oddly familiar, but as he attempts to move over towards her, Vail realizes the bubble had another effect on him; his legs would move forward. It’s at that moment that the ash lander realizes what the true intent of the voices were, as his ears catch the sound of a low rumble building. A trio of Deeptusks charge from the center of the former bubble, threatening to crush all who stand in their way.

It seems that the other adventurers have come to the same revelation as Vail, as they try a variety of tactics to attempt to stop the beasts. Some fire off spells in an attempt to restrain or slay the beast before they approach, while Gwen and the smaller glittery figure attempt to blind the beasts with smoke. Despite their combined efforts, the beasts’ sheer size meant they will be able to take quite the beating, leaving the ash lander with little choice but to intervene.

Vail dashes forward, charging towards the beasts as he attempts to put himself between them and his allies. The immense creatures’ silhouettes are still somewhat visible in the smoke screen as he approaches, allowing the ash lander to get some idea of the beasts' movements. This was far from the first time Vail had dealt with a much larger opponent, albeit these Deeptusks are just a tiny bit larger than a couple drunken orcs. Nevertheless, Vail’s plan remains the same. The pale man darts to the left of the center Deeptusk, using the opening his allies created in their attempts to restrain the leftmost beast. As the beast clears the smoke, the ash lander strikes, hitting the beast with a palm strike on its right side. His attack isn’t to harm the beast, but rather to steer it.

Vail dashes forward, charging towards the beasts as he attempts to put himself between them and his allies. The immense creatures’ silhouettes are still somewhat visible in the smoke screen as he approaches, allowing the ash lander to get some idea of the beasts' movements. This was far from the first time Vail had dealt with a much larger opponent, albeit these Deeptusks are just a tiny bit larger than a couple drunken orcs. Nevertheless, Vail’s plan remains the same. The pale man darts to the left of the center Deeptusk, using the opening his allies created in their attempts to restrain the leftmost beast. As the beast clears the smoke, the ash lander attacks, hitting the beast with a palm strike on its right side. His attack isn’t to harm the beast, but rather to steer it. Years of street fighting have taught him that, when dealing with a larger opponent, it’s best to remember that their extra weight carries more momentum, and more momentum means less control. His target wasn’t the center Deeptusk, but rather the rightmost beast who lay in its path.

---

Summary:
Vail dashes forward and uses the opening his allies create to move to the left of the center Deeptusk. He strikes the center beast's side, redirecting its charge into the right Deeptusk.

Actions:
[1] Buff action: Activating Tavern Champion:

SPOILER: Click to show

You fight best when you have a rowdy environment and an audience cheering you on. When you are fighting multiple opponents, you can take an action to become emboldened for the next four posts - you cannot be overwhelmed by multiple enemies; where their numbers would normally overwhelm you, you know how to maneuver around them. During this period, you can take an action to redirect one of their attacks towards you to another enemy. Additionally, if a projectile is thrown at you during this period, you can catch it and use it as an improvised weapon, which breaks at the end of this emboldened state.

[2] Defensive Action: Uses Tavern Champion's attack redirect to steer the center Deeptusk's charge into the right Deeptusk

Active passives:
Controlled Immunity - poison/toxic reduction
Bulls Strength Tattoo - Double Strength
Shadow Sight
Pass without a trace
Hands are weapons
Iron Grip

Dashing Enchantment: Master Unarmed built-in enchantment

Tavern Champion: [1/4] posts

Equipped items:
Phantom Plate (Cuirass) (3/3)HP
Gauntlets of Ginma (1/1)HP
Smoldering Cape (Clothing)
Hand Wraps (Unarmed Weapon): Life Link, Cold Iron, Double Strike

Gods above, it is loud.

Kvasir’s ears twitch and flatten back against his skull as the mesh of voices grows ever more complicated, words bleeding together into one solid headache. He adores Astrid, he does, and properly naming the way he feels for Morrigan is a… complex matter, but he’d be a fool to deny the fact that neither one of them have an especially good level of control over their volume, especially with Morrigan making use of those makeshift earplugs. It isn’t helped by the fact that neither of them… get along especially well, to put it gently, even if things have apparently improved at least a little bit. A little.

There’s still the matter that Kvasir is in love with someone who continuously picks fights with a preteen girl, but that is not something that he’s going to think especially hard about right now.

Even if half of Charon seems to know about it, if the unfamiliar voice that sounds from behind him is of any indication.

Kvasir flinches again at Morrigan’s indignant screeching in response to the strange, unfamiliar little voice’s comment about a “double date,” at their insistence that this is purely a professional occasion– it’s merely the volume that makes him wince, though, merely another loud noise to add to the tally, nothing more, nothing less, nothing deeper. He shudders, ears twitching as if to cast away the remnants of sound, and he’s just about to turn and address the owner of that strange, coy little voice when the soapy wall before them suddenly pops, the watery veil growing solid, shifting into glittering spores that settle over all of them.

As someone quite acquainted with glitter, glitter removal, and glitter handling procedures, Kvasir is quick to throw his arm up in front of his face, shielding himself from the onslaught of faux-stardust as well as he possibly can– he feels some settling in his hair, over his ears, and oh is he going to have to purge the sparkles from his clothing later, but mercifully, he manages to save himself from getting any in his eye or mouth.

There are many perks to loving someone who bleeds more glitter than blood, and sharp reflexes is one of them.

The sigh of relief that falls from Kvasir’s lips as he lowers his arm quickly shifts into a gasp as he drinks in the scenery that unfolds before him: a sky as pink as a Crescent Isles spring, as vivid and varied as a bush of hydrangeas, rose and baby blue melting into a field dyed in pastel, in watercolor, a painter’s vision breathed into surreal life. It’s eerily beautiful, and eerily wrong– a fact only cemented by the sheer amount of Deeptusks wandering amongst those dreamy grasses, whose gazes turn violent as soon as they land upon every one of the people who’ve suddenly wandered into their sights.

Ah. Well. Isn’t that just wonderful.

Well, it isn’t like he expected this to be easy.

Kvasir gently pulls on Laleh-Vahzgun’s bowstring, a sudden flash of light surging through it at the mere motion, the engravings of those weeping petals carved into the curve of it lighting up like a lantern, illuminating the area around him in a gentle golden glow, enveloping those standing nearby. [1] He’s just about to set the next spell in motion when that strange little voice sounds once more, this time from in front of him– and he turns to find a small, scrunkly little fellow standing before him, holding his hand up in offering.

He blinks.

“...w-work colleague, yes,” he manages after just a moment too long, and if there’s a bit of a flush to his face, that’s no one’s business but his own. “Ah, um– really, they seem to get quite the bad rep, they’re a really lovely person, but– I… a… handprint sounds… fine…?”

He’s doing a poor job of masking his confusion, but in the end, all he can think to do is nod, offering a gloved hand back for the scrunkly stranger to touch. He’s not quite sure of what this is for or what it’s meant to do, but admittedly, his focus is a bit skewed between the impending danger of the Deeptusks to question the intentions behind this gesture too deeply.

“Thank you…?” [2]

He gives a polite wave and a feeble smile before returning his hand to Laleh-Vahzgun’s bowstring, careful not to get any ink on it, though it doesn’t seem to be a problem. He flexes his fingers, the string shifting just slightly with the pull, and anyone within his range would suddenly feel a solid fortitude settle within their mind, a bulwark that shows no signs of breaking– at least, not anytime soon. [3] He can feel the dread that lingered over him start to creep away, fading as he surveys the area, counting the number of people he’s offered his protection to: Astrid, Cypress, that minotaur fellow, this scrunkly guy, so on, so forth, except…

…

…where the hell is Morrigan?

Kvasir jerks his head around, glancing over to where Morrigan had been standing at the beginning of all of this, when the veil had first shattered– sure enough, they aren’t where they had been before. He furrows his brow, trying not to let the urgency show in his face as he scans the area, trying to find where they must have gone–

And there they are, dancing before the Deeptusks like a performer on a stage, as graceful and uncaring as a court dancer in their prime, all as Bubbles circles above, breathing fire from above like a burning curtain.

They’re a genius.

They’re a fool.

Kvasir’s heart stutters in his chest.

One can only spend so much time around a person before they start to notice the little things– the minutiae, the things that don’t quite click into place, the inconsistencies in the stories they tell. One can only hear so many things from other people before they recognize there’s a difference in the image painted by others and the image built before them.

Kvasir knows that there are things other people know about Morrigan Moonweaver that he does not. He can hear it in the way people speak of them even here: in Astrid’s quip about it being unheard of that they’d ever do something good, in strangers’ speak of them being hard to work with, even in Cypress’s disbelief. But he knows that there are things he knows about Morrigan Moonweaver that others do not, too: he knows they are a surprisingly good listener when you really sit down with them, he knows they are unfathomably smart in all manner of ways no one ever seems to give them credit for, and he knows that they are much, much kinder than they seem to be aware of.

He cares far more for what he does know than what he doesn’t.

And right now, he knows that Morrigan is being a kind, foolish, selfless idiot, and that there is a good chance he is going to have to drag their purple ass off of that field to patch it up if those monsters trample it.

“MORRIGAN MOONWEAVER!” Kvasir yells, voice cracking around the edges. “I JUST TOLD YOU TO BE CAREFUL! YOU’RE TAKING YEARS OFF OF MY LIFE!”

Gods above, he can feel the migraine coming already, and he can’t even blame it on the ghosts of gods long gone.

At least this is a migraine he’s prepared to carry his whole life.

---

SUMMARY: Kvasir remains at the RIGHT FLANK. Before everyone launches into combat, Kvasir activates his VESTIGE OF LIGHT and uses it to give everyone in range the BLESSING OF THE MIND, allowing them to withstand the whispers. He accepts Hylltywyll's INKED MARKING. He also YELLS at MORRIGAN.

LYCORIS remains perched on his shoulder, doing NOTHING.

1. Activates Vestige of Light - SUPPORT ACTION

2. Accepts Inked Marking from Hyll - PASSIVE

3. Activates Blessing of the Mind on those who accept it - SUPPORT ACTION

PETS:

1. Lycoris, "Moth Dragon" (reflavored Snow Owl) - counts as a pet

SPOILER: Click to show

A strange moth Kvasir encountered in the Lantern Light Wood on a mission for the Consortium with Morrigan Moonweaver and Cantio von Lumen. This creature has the ability to manifest as a cat-sized moth around the house, bearing resemblance to a Death's Head Hawkmoth in terms of appearance, but when the time comes, it can transform into a vast, imposing moth-like dragon, capable of casting magic.

Can cast Snow Flurry and Heavy Blizzard once per topic.

2. Sparkle-lings (reflavored Snowlings) - do not count against NPC cap

SPOILER: Click to show

A round bottle of what appears to be never-melting snow... but tip the bottle, and snowlings will pour out. Snowlings, little round snowballs (about the size of a golf ball) with legs, are eager to help perform tasks, chores, carry an item, or cause a distraction— but they have no combat abilities, and cannot speak. The entire group of Snowlings may be assigned one type of task at a time.

PASSIVES:

- Night Vision

SPOILER: Click to show

Any and all eyes you have are altered to be able to see in the dark. These eyes are given the ability to see regardless of how dark it is. This does not effect your normal eye sight and will not hinder you if it is bright out. These only work in normally darkness and will not see in darkness created by magic.

- Controlled Immunity

SPOILER: Click to show

Gaining mastery over the human body has increased your control over your own body. You have now become resistant to poison and toxins, your body able to fend them off with ease. Any poison or toxic effect last for one turn less on you and will not effect you as much as normal.

- Angelic Light

SPOILER: Click to show

The light within the celestial now flows through you, invigorating you and filling you with holiness. All of your physical attacks now deal light damage in addition to their normal damage types, so your sword slices, arrows strikes and hammer smashes all deal light damage, making you effective against those of evil and death. Your attacks that deal light damage now deal double damage against those who are of the Evil Alignment.

- Morrigan Moonweaver's Eternity Ring

SPOILER: Click to show

A single ornate ring that is said to magically bind itself to your soul upon receiving the ring. This ring is not for you to wear, instead it is meant to be given to another like someone you love, trust, care about or value immensely. While someone is wearing your ring, they are able to read your emotions or mood, and tell if you are happy, sad, scared, etc. The wearer of your ring is also able to cast one spell, or use one martial/stealth ability that you own (is in your inventory) once per topic. They cast the ability at the same level you posses (Novice, Master or Exalted) and can be used without needing to be in the topic together. A ring can only be bound to one person at a time and you cannot wear multiple peoples' rings.

- Life Spark Earring

SPOILER: Click to show

A small, yellow sun shaped ear ring that can be attached to the ear in any manner. Worn by paladins, clerics and battle medics to dish out damage while still protecting their comrades. While this is worn, if you healed someone last post, all of your damage this post will ignore resistances, immunities and hit preventions.

- Inked Marking (from Hyll)

SPOILER: Click to show

The Quillomancer's tool of the trade is a small, glass vial of black writing ink, which all Quillomancers keep on them. By infusing your magic into this ink, you can place your hand on a target, transferring the ink onto their skin in the form of a tattoo of your own design. You can make three tattoos per topic, which are permanent and stay until the end of the topic, morphing back into ink when the topic ends. Anyone who has an Inked Marking will be able to telepathically communicate with others who also have an Inked Marking, even if they are unable to see one another. Those with an Inked Marking will also know the exact whereabouts of others with the markings, able to speak with and track others affected by the tattoos. An individual can only have one Inked Marking applied.

Suddenly before the giant bubble in front of the young blue-toned fellblood could wave back it popped and from it, a large wave of spores enveloped him. Various bright colors overcome his vision as he stumbles back in confusion holding his head, trying to explain how his formerly possible bubble friend betrayed him so quickly.

Javal shakes it off after a few moments gaining his clear vision back before exclaiming, “WOOHOO, DO IT AGAIN! That was awesome, so many colors that were fun”.

An eruption occurred an entire stampede of Deeptusks surged through the battlefield three of the fearsome creatures appeared around him and the front flank.

“Oh no, it looks like these poor fellows have been displaced and upset, what type of scoundrel would do such a thing to innocent creatures? We should help them calm down at once like my fellow fellblood exclaimed. I’d probably be really mad if that happened to me too”, he pondered before focusing on the imminent threat at hand.

Seeing one of the towering deeptusks charge at the peaceful fellow, Javal rushed forward chasing right after it, clasping both of his hands together and letting water envelop his arms (1). Using his liquid whip of the sea he slammed into the creature's back foot wrapping it around its limb. Quickly he planted his feet firmly on the ground yelling, “Boot Root” (1), letting thick tree roots spread from the bottom of his feet and lodging himself firmly to the ground itself.

"You’re not going anywhere until you chill out my tusked friend”, he’d exclaim, holding a determined grin and holding onto the deeptusk as much as he could, placing every bit of strength into his arms. Nadia, Caspian, and Meryl we're right behind him cheering him on. Feeling Marion’s determined words gave Javal even more strength to hold it in place while Mikael got it to calm down.

---

SUMMARY:

Javal realizes the bubble is the bad guy, then uses water whip on the deeptusk that is charging at Mikael to hold it in place rooting himself into the ground with his rooted boots. 

Javal is at the FRONT FLANK

Javal Zarrias
1. Water Whip on Deeptusk's back leg and holding it back (Passives: Bull's Strength, also is boosted from Marion's Inspiring Presence)
2. Rooted Boots to plant into the ground.
Nadia Sadrine, Meryl Greine, Caspian, 
1. Cheering their boss on!

Front

As the Deeptusks charge, a large field of vines sprouts up and covers an impressive amount of the area. Despite the spell growing up around all three Deeptusk’s feet, only one is slowed and lets out a shrill trumpet as the barbs scratch against their thick hide. The other two are oddly unaffected and rush forward unimpeded to engage with the other adventurers.

One collides with Beak who is ready to meet it. Her fists connect…or at least it looks that way. What might have been expected was the feeling of thick hide and flesh is absent, and instead, something inside the creature twists and snaps from the force. There’s an unnatural hiss from inside and the creature’s form recoils from the touch of the cold-iron. Just as the creature makes a move to go around Beak and pick an easier target, C'Leena Thomas unleashes a flurry of slashes that easily pass through the false outer shell of this thing. It hisses again and the adventurers see slashed pieces of vegetation, vines, and roots, fall in place of hair, and hide. C'Leena Thomas ‘s blades are slicked in a dark, tar-like sap.

The false Deeptusk swings its trunk in a sweeping motion to bludgeon and knock Beak and C'Leena Thomas away from it.

The second one that is not slowed is confronted by Rena Brighteyes and @taki. The dancing chain takes the brunt of the collision of the charge and the adventurer finds that their attacks are similarly passing through a false outer appearance and striking something more amorphous underneath. Rena Brighteyes ‘s blades are slicked in a dark, tar-like sap. @shitakibo ’s hits connect with the creature’s true body which does deal damage, however, its anatomy is not as expected.

The second false Deeptusk’s form shifts and two massive tree-like limbs sprout from its back. It attempts to bring down the limbs on Rena Brighteyes and @shitakibo .

Mikael Mooreson ’s whistle doesn’t seem to affect the Deeptusks, however, it does draw any non-magical animal companions in the immediate area to them. This motion does attract the last Deeptusk after it pulls itself free of the brambles and charges at the fellblood. Javal Zarrias jumps in to wrap a water whip around its leg and pull it back from completely trampling Mikael Mooreson , though Mikael Mooreson is bowled over and knocked to the ground by the massive beast. Their spell connects, and the Deeptusk blinks a few times as it comes to a stop. It looks around as if regaining its bearings and unaware of the adventurer lying on the ground between its feet and confused as to why there’s something around its leg. It locks eyes with Javal Zarrias and snorts.

Left

Mischief and Misfit’s scouting of the area reveal that - while the bubble appeared to have popped - it left behind a weird warping effect in the air which seems to grow stronger the closer to the center of the battlefield one goes, yet when they try to fly into the warping they are abruptly spun around to go back the opposite direction - something they can do with the whispers canceled out by Lord Sarne Sequoia ‘s battle cry.

Lady Kamille Verlithax successfully rids herself and her allies of the glittery spores which allows Lord Sarne Sequoia ‘s minions to remain unseen until they attack.

As three Deeptusks charge the left flank, @sarne would note that two of the creatures are not what they seem. Magic envelopes their forms, bending the air and light around them, concealing what they really are. The left one he engages is a fake, and it’s form bends and snaps around his attacks which carve through far smoother than they should had this been a creature of tough hide and bone.

The strange monster retaliates by swinging its tusks in a sweeping motion against Lord Sarne Sequoia and his minions.

Disaster slams into the second Deeptusk which lets out an unnaturally high pitched hiss as the ice spreads. There’s a crackling noise, like wood splintering as the creatures are locked into a contest of strength with the summon.

Tendrils form out of its back and start to repeatedly whip the summon’s body and try to coil around it.

Kalaf’s talons scrape across thick hide as it pins down the last Deeptusk, the soapy sheen of the Deeptusk rubbing on of the underbelly of the drake. Something about the substance is unnatural and it seeps around the drake’s scales, but it’s unable to shake Kalaf’s unshakeable loyalty to @kamille.

The beast struggles under the drake’s weight, attempting to throw it off.

Right

Kvasir Sigurrós is a healer and a doctor, so he is quick to support his allies and offer them protection from all mind-altering effects.

The three Deeptusks charge forward in a fury, narrowly squashing one of the more naturally sparkly adventurers before plowing through Shaa Rhunn ’s suddenly appearing sand pit. They are all slowed, though two seem more distressed about it than the other one. Fire strikes the creature’s backs, bouncing off the tough hides of two, but almost being absorbed by the third. The third screeches loudly, the fire causing its form to almost look like it’s glowing on the inside. Another burst of fire comes from the drake circling above.

An odd display then catches their attention, and they pull themselves towards that side of the sand pit.

The first Deeptusk’s trunk elongates to an uncanny degree and attempts to smack and drag the dancing fool into the sand with the rest of them. It’s focus firmly on Morrigan Moonweaver  so much that it doesn’t notice the hellhound bleching fire at it.

While that’s happening, a little scrunkle moves about between the other adventurers inscribing a few of them with marks despite the glittery powder covering their everything.

The second Deeptusk is cleaned up by a flyby bonk through a hammer and it seems to snap out of its rage and instead is just fixated on Morrigan Moonweaver ’s dance.

The third Deeptusk snorts and some of the rage in its eyes fades as Natsunats-Shun sings to it and wipes away the soap, protected from its effects on themselves by Kvasir Sigurrós ’s blessing. It does manage to pull itself free, the birdfolk’s spell conflicting with its rage and fixation on Morrigan Moonweaver . Cypress Springleap ’ cast of slow keeps it from going too far as a boosted rain starts to fall and wash away the ichor from it and the second Deeptusk. The third is undeterred.

There's an annoyed sigh from the telepathic voice.

Rear

The sound of smashing glass is followed by a plume of smoke which obscures the line of sight with the approaching Deeptusks. This proves to work to Gwendolyn Mystwud  ‘s minions' advantage as they unleash their attacks on the stampeding beasts. The creature's fury is fueled even more and then a pillar of fire envelopes the creatures. All three are quick to scatter, their formation broken to avoid the noxious flames.

Vail intercepts the leftmost Deeptusk after it's buffeted by wind and hail. His strikes land true. The hefty creature’s weight grazes the adventurer’s side as it storms past, the brunt of the collision being deflected enough to avoid harm. Tripping the beast up is enough for it to sideswipe the rightmost one which is equally as solid as itself. A soapy residue is left on Vail’s hands and he feels himself filled with blind rage.

The center Deeptusk is intercepted by Gwendolyn Mystwud after crashing through the flames, the fire seems to illuminate it from the inside and it screeches loudly as her attacks slam into its side.

It rears up and attempts to slam its feet down on her.

The rightmost Deeptusk grunts as fire scatters across its face then it locks onto Mori. It charges forward and tries to slam its trunk into her.

The glittery powder is annoying, but with enough effort it does come off. Wind also proves to be effective in dispersing the glittery powder from oneself.

---

NOTE: Please indicate where you are at the END OF YOUR TURN on the battlefield (FRONT, REAR, LEFT FLANK, RIGHT FLANK). 

The chaos continues, several Deeptusks have regained their sense while others continue to be in distress. However, not all is as it seems as some of the Deeptusks seem to be something else entirely.

Damage dealt to PCs and NPCs:

Confirmed - damage and effects have been awarded

Inbound - damage and effects have been threatened

FRONT
Beak  - 1 minor wound (earth damage) and knocked prone inbound
C'Leena Thomas - 1 minor wound (earth damage) and knocked prone inbound
Rena Brighteyes - 1 major wound (earth damage) inbound
@shitakibo - 1 major wound (earth damage) inbound
Mikael Mooreson - 1 minor wound and knocked prone confirmed

LEFT FLANK
Lady Kamille Verlithax
Disaster - 1 minor wound (earth damage) and grapple inbound
Lord Sarne Sequoia - 1 major wound (earth damage) inbound
Nordic - 1 major wound (earth damage) inbound
Naesla - 1 major wound (earth damage) inbound
Euros - 1 major wound (earth damage) inbound

RIGHT FLANK
Morrigan Moonweaver - 1 major wound (earth damage) and grapple inbound

REAR
Vail cannot tell friend from foe (mental/charm effect from soapy substance) 
Gwendolyn Mystwud - 1 major wound (earth damage) inbound
Mori - 1 minor wound (bludgeoning) and knocked prone inbound
Fish the Tinkerer and Lady Keyke Runi - no longer dusty

Active environmental threats:

All areas are under some sort of strange magical effect that cannot be fully understood.
There is a warping of space towards the center of the battlefield which forcibly turns anyone trying to cross through the center away 
The whispers preventing retreat from incoming threats continue for all characters who are still under its effects.

FRONT:
There is a large patch of sharp brambles which slows movement and deals earth damage to those who come in contact with it.
All non-magical small pets are drawn towards mikael
Glitter dust is still in effect for characters who have not removed it from themselves

LEFT:
Glitter dust is still in effect for characters who have not removed it from themselves
Whispers countered for 2 rounds (Battle Cry in effect)

RIGHT:
Glitter dust is still in effect for characters who have not removed it from themselves
There is a giant sand pit that the Deeptusks are swimming in

REAR:
Glitter dust is still in effect for characters who have not removed it from themselves
There is a smoke cloud around the Deeptusks making it hard to see.

Active minions: See Bestiary for creature details

Some of the Deeptusks are real and under a charm effect that can be broken
Some of the Deeptusks are some other sort of plant entity shrouded in an illusion

FRONT:
2 fake Deeptusks
1 real Deeptusk

LEFT:
2 fake Deeptusks
1 real Deeptusk

RIGHT:
1 fake Deeptusk
2 real Deeptusks

REAR:
1 fake Deeptusk
2 real Deeptusks

Boss abilities discovered:

Projected telepathy

Action System is Active

The deadline to get your reply in for this round is Sunday July 21 at 11:59 pm ET

Gwen grimaces as the monstrous abomination before her tries to stomp her into the ground. Smoke was everywhere, and there was little hope for a knight in shining armour to rescue her again. Her understanding of the battlefield was impeccable however, the patron clinging on her back had certainly done swell work with these eyes. A roll to the side lands her in the perfect spot to retaliate, and retaliate she does. (1)



The maul finds it’s way back to her hand, and adds it’s power to a massive swing upwards into the beasts belly. Soul flame leaps out of the censer head as the maul sings through the air, only to reverse course and bash downwards. (2) She could only pray that it would be enough to actually put it in the ground. A small “eep” from behind her reminded the noblewoman of the continuing fight.



Looking back, there were two fewer glittery fellows behind her. It was comforting to know she did not have to spend the rest of her life like a garish Zeinavan princess. Though, it seemed the soapy substance had contaminated the last of the shadow dancers. Surely nothing bad could come from that. Her real worry at the time was Mori, from whom the small cry had escaped.



Mori had a split second to react, a deep tusk trunk swinging at her face. She falls backwards onto the ground, placing arms up defensively. Luckily, reaction time casting was part of the Mystwud Manor Maid training, enough so that the act was nearly instinctual. A massive slab of stone erupted from the ground between them, hopefully enough to block the blow. (3)



Even though her servant was still practically glowing, there would certainly come a time where she would be asked about the sparkly invisible lump that sat on her back. Siathriah did not appreciate being known to those she did not want to know, and would spend some time in the midst of combat to lick her fur. (6)



Unfortunately, for the rest of the Manor Maids, this was their least favourite part of most battles. Millicent and Jess met up on the far side of the battle, closest to the center of the bubble, and exchanged a knowing look. Everything was covered in smoke, and glimpses of enemies or allies were the most they could hope to receive. Thus was life in service of Gwendolyn Mystwud. Each of them manifested a spell and shot it at the largest thing they could see in the smoke cloud. (4/5)
Actions:
1 Gwen: Defensive action, dodge
2 Gwen: Attack Action, Hallowed Redolence. Fire/Light/HEAVY/Soul Bonded, Tourney Favour, Double Strike. Soul Waning stacks 3/4
Every hit that lands with this weapon creates a stack of Soul Waning on the target. At three stacks on a single target, their very soul in an explosion of flame that engulfs the target for a single post, causing immense pain as well as blunt and fire damage. Acts as if it has the heavy enchantment but comes with no additional enchantment slots.
3 Mori: Defensive action, Mold Earth
4 Millicent: Lightning Bolt
5 Jess: Ice Spike
6 Siathriah: Invisible, Buff Action: Remove Glitter

Passives:

Infinite Soul - No aging

Blood Scent - blood tracking

Eyes of Siathriah - Vision impairment immunity, Spell/enchantment identification/knowledge

Purity Graft - Poison effect duration reduction

Malik's Coat of Perfection - Attractiveness buff

In plain sight - (outside combat) Lie detection immunity, identity detection immunity, Suspicion immunity

Spell Focus - Mercurial Censer, Spells billow smoke at target location for 1 post, deal poison damage.

Dread Helm- Darkvision, Blue eye glow

Life spark Earrings - Attack penetration post after healing

Boots of Tranquility - Nihililac bloom, misty steps, hot surface immunity

Mantle of Mists - Cold mist aura

Gauntlets of Affluence and Avarice - Increased strength vs. stone/metal, total damage vs. stone worth less than silver

Eternity Ring of Wolfe - feels Blue Raspberries emotions

Silver Veil - Airborne Poison Immunity

Arcane Senses - Spellcaster detection, elemental spell detection

Wicked Desires - Unable to heal with spells



HP:

Dread Helm: 1

Mystborn Platebody: 1

Gauntlets of Affluence and Avarice: 1

Mantle of Mists: 2, freeze attacks

Guardian Stuffy: 1 mental

Purity Graft: 1 poison

Silver Veil: 1/2 mental

They are... well, not all of them are real deeptusks.

Marion furrowed his brow as he saw his companion's attacks lands on these creatures and black tar leaked out instead of blood, and the extra limbs- he have no way of knowing what they actually are, really. But there is not much room for pondering, the chaos of a battlefield only starting to unfold, and when those... arms made out of plant matter threatned to come crashing down on the people he know and love- Marion lifted Idun, it's golden leaves shining, and slammed it down into the earth once more.

"_/ 一一^- ！"

A verse compacted into a call, now sounding more like a lark than a person's song, the earth bursts and out surges new life- the speed which it eruptively grows upwards inherently dangerous to anything in it's way. Even if he had never intended to harm anyone- even if he only knows how to nurture and grow, there is still something powerful in these tiney seeds that sleeps in the ground, and life- always finds a way.

And with that note there is a curious sensation it brings to all that hears it- courage, perhaps, or how it clear's one's mind from doubt like a bell rang clear. The golden light that Marion had lended you grew abit stronger, and burns away the impurities before they may touch your being.

Position: Front quadrant, ground level

Actions:
1- Use (Citrinitas)(Prestige) Staunch Perseverance: Active
You very voice or gaze fills your allies with the strength to keep fighting no
matter how dire the situation is. This affects your allies for two posts and for as
long as your allies can hear or see you, they will be immune to spell effects. This
will not ignore the damage dealt to them by that spell but will prevent them from
any other effects, like being stunned, frozen, shocked, burned, paralyzed, or
other status effects.


2- Cast (Earth) Rapid Growth: Active
Targeted to underneath Faketusk#2 (rena&taki's)
(reflavoured from: Crystalline Shard
By stomping or pounding the ground you can cause a medium sized shard of
stone to erupt from the ground. The shard is jagged and rigged, making it very
dangerous as it rises from the ground. It can impale, cut or slice things it moves
through, and remains after being summoned.
-Deals earth damage-)
By stomping or pounding the ground you can cause a medium sized plant to
erupt from the ground. The plant is jagged and rigged, making it very dangerous
as it rises from the ground. It can impale, cut or slice things it moves through,
and remains after being and remains after being summoned.
-Deals earth damage-

Effects:
Inspiring presence (1/3)
For the next three posts any ally affected by this spell, including you, will deal double
damage with their physical attacks. (does not effect spells)

Items:
- (Helmet) Emerald Hair Clips: 
Reflavoured from: Brain Helmet
A finely fashioned helmet favored amongst battle mages, this steel helmet is
made to look like the top of a brain and is able to defend your head from strikes.
While wearing this helmet your spell count is increased by 5 and you no longer
need any free hands to cast your spells.
A set of jeweled hairpins that are fashioned to look like leaves- they exert a
unseen forcefield that is able to defend your head from strikes. While wearing
them your spell count is increased by 5 and you no longer need any free hands to
cast your spells.

-(Tools of the Trade)(Citrinitas)(Prestige) Golden Laurels: (1/2)
Gold and plant life had always symbolized him. While wearing this item,
Marion gain two hit preventions against fear or charm effects.