Second Newt Event

{NARRATION} The swamps. Lying in between the Trystle caves and the Bygone Grove, it provided a perect trifecta of deadly, depraved areas. Though, by far the swamps were the worst of all three. Years of death, disease, and all around rot turning it into a stinking crellus infested pit of horror. And yet people still willingly wandered into it. Three such people stood here, looking into the swamps. Here, just outside of Trystle, things weren't quite as bad. But, their destination was further in. A place only minimally charted on maps. Their goal, a group of dangerous Newts. Around them would be the sounds of Crellus feasting and roaring. A dire warning to all who entered. Turn back now. (Feel free to do introductory posts, and then we move on)
[15:52:32] It had been too long.

The usual foreboding atmosphere of the marshes would do nothing to hinder the spirits of the young raven-haired female, trotting after her mistress with a smile upon her face. Ophrem had grown up in these areas after all, born and raised for sixteen years. This was not some foreign enemy territory.

This was home.

Still, she was not so naive to think for a moment that there was no danger here. Having grown in this swamp gave her a perspective upon it which most others were lacking. She couldn't help the elation though. It had been two years since she had left, and she was just now beginning to realize the depths of her homesickness.

The girl took a strong wiff of the air, exhaling in a contented manner. "Aaaaaah...~ I 'ave not smelled zat scent in so long...~"
(Ophrem Levonte)
[15:53:23] This certainly wasn't a place she wanted to be in. But at least it was out of Nostvale, a city she had long since grown bored of. With Hauk's authorization, Charlie could depart the city along with Ophrem, her apprentice, and Veridia, the clown who offered quite the useful set of muscles for the job. Off they went with the adequate equipment for the job.

Speaking of which, Charlie wore the same clothes as usual behind a thick, black cloak with what seemed to be a bit lump protruding out. A large bag would be carried with her, containing multiple flasks for sampling as well as the tools required for such jobs. Tweezers, gasmask, knives, everything was there. Even food and medicine, of course.

"Ugh, so this is it."

Charlie would say out loud for her gang to hear. They were already far beyond the marshlands, and according to Ophrem, this supposedly unexplored area was the place they were searching for. Hand on her hip, Charlie would be understandably perplexed as all she was were ell, empty marshes with too many trees and water.

The goal was to find the newts, and possible make some interesting discovering during their perrilous adventure.
(Charlie Avaline)
[16:01:04] There wasn't much luck to finding who she was looking for. She sat on a roof for a time, looking for this person. Than she'd notice Charlie come by and Veridia quickly found herself following Charlie from Nostvale all the way to the marshlands. It hasn't been too long since she'd been here, so she'd still recongized the thickness of the air.

Regardless, she was here for a reason. To hunt lizards. Beyond that, she didn't have much of an idea of what they were doing here. But that was the bliss of ignorance really. She didn't need to know much and still managed to be so interested in what they might have been doing here. "Soooo.... Which way?" Veridia asked. There were alot of different ways they could go.

She'd start pointing random directions and saying "This way?" Each time she pointed. Little annoying. Alittle like a kid on a road trip asking are we there yet.

After she ran out of directions to point, she'd just wait for a response of some kind.

Giving an certain look at Ophrem every now and than. Veridia didn't have a clue of who she was. And didn't ask during the trip, thinking she was some kind of traveller or something.
(Veridia Alesci)
{NARRATION} With introductions out of the way, it was time to be off. For the most part, the way forward would be clear. Off in the distance, would be an area where the trees grew exceptionally thick. Except for a thin, wandering line through them. It was akin to a path, but all throughout, thin trunks stood snapped. The signs of something of a decent size making it their throroughfare. Surely, what they were looking for was beyond this? Regardless of the uncertainty of this, they would make their way over, quickly passing through, and making their way along the path. For the most part, there would be nothing of interest here. For, some reason, the area looked far too clean. Stems trimmed, and grasses plucked. Someone had been through here. It wouldn't take them long to find out who. At least, somewhat. Only shortly after entering, they would come upon a camp. 4 tents sat in a circle, around a burned out campfire. The smoke rising would indicate that they had been here rather recently. Strewn among the camp would be various bottles, their contents long since emptied, but, perhaps something remained within? (Charlie and Ophrem may roll to examine the bottles. Everyone can RP around the camp)
[16:24:57] As they ventured deeper into the marshlands, Veridia started to act childish as per usual. By then Charlie was completely immune to such immaturity, considering it as some sort of background theme to ease the tension. Humid, murky, foul smelling. This was just great.

Boots were having a hard time getting through the mud, even if they were made for such a job, but this could be a cause for a lack of large vegetation. Indeed, nature doesn't build in straight lines and this was certainly straight as ever. Something has been here, and the proof would be the traces of sliced plant stems nearby.

"Looks like we've got company ..."

A rather eerie thing to say, but an expert like Charlie was all too used to it by now. A slower pace was employed and hopefully the gang would follow. That'd be until they cross what would seem to be a campsight.

The unexplored grounds weren't so virgin after all, aye?

"And I jinxed it. Great."

Upon closer inspection, it'd be easy to notice that there wouldn't be anyone there, justa bunch of tents and empty bottles. Swiftly, gloves were fitted and Charlie would approach the more peculiar elements.

"I'd be careful with those bottles."

She'd announce as if it weren't obvious. Tweezers were grabbed out of the bag while a cloth would be held by the other hand and pressed on her face. So many times had she found gasses stuck in jars and would lead to rather nasty effects. The tweezer would pull the lid out in order to possibly find something about these jars that could enlighten them.
(Charlie Avaline)
[16:25:48] Though she was very familiar with the layout of the more accessable points of the marshes, this was new territory even for Ophrem.

The young girl would remain quiet, though her spirits would remain high. She loved this type of terrain, the exotic plants, the dangerous animals. Her skin was tingling, literally abuzz with excitement. She was not so spacey that caution would not be taken, but it was fairly hard for her to focus with everything abounding.

The sight of denuded plantlife made her hair stand on edge. It was highly unlikely, given the depths to which they were plundering, that any sort of civilization should be found here. And yet there was no denying it, the smoke from the camp a dead giveaway long before they had actually stumbled upon it. Regardless of whether or not Charlie and Veridia would move forward, Ophrem would hang back.

Soft, whispered words would eminate from between her lips, commands issued to the spirits at her command to spread out through the surrounding area. The last thing the group needed as they poked and prodded through someone else's belongings was for said campers to return in the midst of their backs being turned.

Ophrem, her pupils a milky white, would then began to cautiously traipse through the encampment, gazing around at the litter and the furniture. Who would be so insane as to set up a rest spot for the night in the middle of such dangerous territory?

Oh, right. They would.

"Of course, madame..." Ophrem would respond as she followed suit, picking through the refuse. She did not expect to find anything more than the stale remnants of ale and other drinks as would be commonplace to find surrounding a campfire, but perhaps she would be surprised.
(Ophrem Levonte)
{NARRATION} As charlie lifted the lid off the bottle, a no doubt familiar smell would waft out. This... this wasn't anything dangerous! It was a common potion, a rather simple mixture, made to dampen pain. Surely something any alchemist with minimal experience could make? But... The realization would most likely hit Charlie first. The cleaned stems, the path, the bottles... This, was a camp of Alchemists. Alchemists going through, and picking clean everything they could. More then likely, they were even after the same newts. And now, they had a head start. Besides the bottles, it was clear there wasn't anything else to see here. Besides the lack of time they now found themselves with.
[16:42:52] Veridia found herself walking around the camps. Looking around the tents to see if she could find anything of interest. She'd soon see that she wouldn't and instead paced around the fire for the time. She didn't have a reason, but really she just needed something to do.

She'd glared over to Charlie and the other, and found them doing nothing that was really entertaining to her. They were really just messing around with Bottles. Veridia wasn't very sure to the point of just looking at bottles, but that was something they were doing. And she couldn't really put her figure on a reason. So she wouldn't think on it to hard and went to her own antics of distracting herself.

Soon, she would get bored. The feeling would usually wash over her when there wasn't much to do, and what she had to do wasn't so distracting. And moreso uninteresting.

So, she'd just walk over to Charlie with a bit of a frown on her face. One usually wouldn't be on her face unless she had a good reason to found. She found this a good reason. "Charlie, this isn't very fun." It was something that she simply had to admit.

To this point, she'd only watch bottle investigating. They might or might not have found some entertainment in that. But she would find none in the action.

"The fun part comes soon, right?"
(Veridia Alesci)
[16:43:44] Well that was anti-climactic. No weird gas, no sudden transparent release of some sort of intoxicating agent. If there was, Charlie would notice it by the change in charges in the air by having her lightning mana spark out from time to time. Cloth was down and the smell was easily recognize: A basic potion to control pain.

"Well then, either we have some very elaborate junkies or this is an alchemist site. And junkies tend to you know, keel over."

So alchemists it was. That wasn't exactly reassuring at all. Competition would likely ensue if the goals were the same, but even if ti wasn't the case, Charlie had a bad feeling. She'd stand straight once more, peering over at the different tents to see if there'd be anything of interest before facing forward to the direction it would seem the individuals had taken.

Pointing that way, Charlie would call out to her gang.

"We shouldn't stick around too long. We keep moving forward, and try to avoid them. Now they've drawn a path for us, but Veridia and I can likely hear the coming in advance with sound magic. Sounds good?"

She'd ask, but right at this moment, Veridia would complain.

"Veridia~ That's because we have to GET to the fun first!"
(Charlie Avaline)
[16:50:33] Aside from the various bottles of inebriants and water, Ophrem's pile was much less exciting than any other might possibly be. The young girl stood up, brushing her hands upon her skirt to rid them of the filth that she had been wallowing in.

The article was liable to become stained and damage beyond repair on this trip, which made her a bit sad. Valmasian fashion was something that she adored.

"Remind me to get a new skirt before my trip..." she mumbled, making her way over to where Charlie was sifting through more containers. The older woman would be able to do a much better job of identifying things than she would, but that did not stop the young teen from leaning down and taking one of the bottles from her and sniffing at it.

A potion for easing pain, with a slightly sedative quality? A frown would tug at the girl's lips. "Whatever zey are, zey are liable to be injured." she stated matter-of-factly, noting the emptiness of several other identical bottles. "We would do well to avoid zem. You know what zey say about frightened, wounded beasts..."

The bottle would be discarded, and the young girl would stand once more, ready to move on with the other two women. Too many things about this did not make sense to her. To find an alchemist encampment like this so far into the marshes...

Had someone been spying on Charlie and Ophrem, and found out the location? Or was this a scouting party sent out by other dwellers of the marshes like her own people? Too many questions, not enough answers...
(Ophrem Levonte)
{NARRATION} The camp would be left behind. Quickly, at that. The decision to avoid the alchemists had been made. But now, they needed to make it through the rest of the way without running into them. A task that, would probably be difficult, considering. Slowly, they would work their way down the path made by the Alchemists. The sounds of Crellus could be heard in the trees and echoing through the swamp, adding to the eerie ambience already present throughout. Footprints would come into view, as grass and dampness gave way to a dry spot in the swamps. A set of 6 in total. Or at least, that's what it would look like. As they went on, the sounds of Crellus could be... louder? Their pained, angry roars pierced through the air. Somehow, a whole group of them. 7 or 8 in total, had all been gathered together. Was it the alchemists? Or was it something else? For now, the Crellus hadn't seen them. Not yet. Perhaps, they still had a chance. Though, noticeably, the Crellus in front of them didn't seem all that strong. No, they seemed rather weak. And, a few of them seemed injured. Perhaps it would just be quicker to cut through them?
[17:08:28] Though Ophrem did not quite relish the sound of creatures in pain, it was quite obviously no business of theirs. Whatever the alchemists intended to do with the creatures, it would be a valuable distraction while the group went off after what it was they were really seeking.

The spirits were pushing her forward with urgency, and Ophrem was not of a mind to deny them.

"We should leave zem." she advised, her voice a quiet whisper so as not to arouse the suspicions of anyone else that may be lurking in the shadows nearby. If the older women prefered to stay and handle, the creatures, putting them out of their misery, Ophrem could not realistically stop them from doing so.

But the young girl would continue forward, picking her way through the brush as she sought to avoid the situation altogether in favor of more pressing matters. She was not leaving the others behind, merely searching, though she hoped she would not have to wait for very long.
(Ophrem Levonte)
[17:10:11] Moving forward it was. It once again wasn't too difficult, and actually quite uneventful really. That'd be until they'd footprints in a dried off area. That was ... Curious to say the least, expected but considering the climate, Charlie wasn't exactly expecting the earth to be that dry. Trivial, but indeed interesting.

It wasn't to revealing of anything, though, as they knew there were people at this point. The only issue what where they were.

"Uh-huh ... I go out looking for newts in some dangerous place away from civilization and there's STILL people to mae all of this shitty."

Grumpy she was. The amount of prints made it clear there were at least a few of them still walking around, though the amount of tents left that easy to deduce from the getgo. Moving on, louder crellus growls could be heard in the distance. This certainly wouldn't be good.

Upon noticing them, Charlie would signal the gang to move to the side as she herself would pressed against a nearby tree while peering over at the flock.

"Huh ..."

Curious sight indeed, and Ophrem would comment on it.

"We COULD take 'em ... But fine. You're right. No point getting dirty for a bunch of shitstain."
(Charlie Avaline)
[17:18:43] Veridia would have found that they were leaving the came. Hopefully so they could go find the fun as Charlie said. It wasn't long before something come into sight. A gathering of creatures. Crellus. Injured. Just begging for some good ol' fashion fun really. Veridia had half the mind to run over and go do just that with the creatures.

She'd even start making movements towards the creatures. The creatures as they made suggestions to simply leave them along. But Veridia REALLY didn't want to do that. No she wanted to go. "Can't I just go and have some fun with them myself?" She'd ask alittle curious. Since Veridia lacked the actual feeling of fear. Most of the time atleast She couldn't only feel confidence at this point. And the psychothic feeling bubbling up in her head.

"They don't look too strong. I'm sure they can provide me with some fun." She'd give a light shrug of her shoulders and she waited to see what they say.

But not much would change Veridia's mind at this point.

Nothing really. She had the intent to run over and fight all of those Crellus. By herself if she had to. She'd only wait a few more moments before she'd shrugged off whatever was stopping her and moved towards the group of injured Crellus.
(Veridia Alesci)
{NARRATION} So, it was decided. Veridia would fight the Crellus alone. Surprisingly, Veridia would manage to beat them all down. No doubt helped along by the fact that they were already injured. Though, it would still be a tough fight. Regardless, the fact of the matter was that they were gone now. The path forward was clear. Ahead of them, they would see the path branch off two ways. In front of it, the ground was trampled and messy. And down each path, the footprints that had been there, would split up and follow seperate branches. The left path, would have four sets of footprints. Nothing seemed off about them, though they did seem rather brisk. The right path though, would be a bit concerning. The footprints that way would be disheveled, and a trail of blood would cover the path. Perhaps there had been a falling out? (You can pick any path you like, feel free to RP about it, and discuss which way would be the best way to go)
[18:04:48] What didn't kill you, made you strong right?

Didn't feel like it once she'd realize the strength of the crellus as a group once she found herself fighting them all at once. That'd manage to group up around her time and time again only to unleash an onslaught of magic that seemed to be never ending. The only that was relieving was she was able to roll underneath the crellus.

Than she'd come to start backpedalling as they steadily approached when she wasn't caught in a circle of them. For the most part, it seemed to work well for her. Everyone she came close to killing, she'd dash towards and imbued the top of their heads and pulled the blade out through their faces. A long and brutal process. It took some time but Veridia finally found herself rid of the Crellus.

Not without suffering some Damage herself. Cuts and gashes. Whatever those Crellus used to make those waves. She was covered in it all Really. But Veridia had a grin on her face.

"Well. That was fun!"

She'd seem cheery for someone in her condition. But really, she seemed to shake off the pain and continued on with the others until they came to the path. She'd move close to Charlie. She was obvisously going with Charlie, whatever she'd decide.
(Veridia Alesci)
[18:05:39] Reluctantly, Veridia was given carte blanche on the Crellus. At least then Charlie wouldn't be caught lying on the 'fun' factor of this expedition. They were going to kill newts, that was for certain, but evidently the group's clown would have to be entertained further than anticipated.

Moving on once the handicapped critters had been thoroughly exterminated, they would be some sort of crossroads. Two paths were offered, one with multiples footprints heading one way while the other was stained with a trail of blood. That didn't feel too encouraging now did it?

"Well if we were to listen to any horror novel, we shouldn't really go to the bloody path. But then again everything in this place can kill you, so ..."

A glance was thrown at Ophrem, trying to figure out what would collectively be the wisest way to proceed. No matter the rationale, it'd end up being a coin flip in the end as no factor really indicated where the colony would be in the end.

"What's your take, Ophrem?"
(Charlie Avaline)
[18:06:30] Ophrem frowned, watching as the red haired woman would leap at the chance to mow down a few injured Crellus. The poisonous yokai stood very little chance against her, and the young marshlander, as she watched on, could not understand what the point was. They had limited time to get where they were going, already at a temporal disadvantage.

A soft sigh escaped her lips as she folded her arms across her chest. When the massacre was finished, a curt, slightly snarky sentence would be given. "'ad your fun, madame?"

With an eyeroll that befitted a teenager of her age, Ophrem would turn to the paths forward. One to the left, and one to the right, as if out of some storybook about paths less traveled. In this sitation, one was inclined to go where there was likely to be the least resistence. On first glance the path to the left would seem to offer that.

But Ophrem disagreed. Directing her sapphire hues upon her mistress, Ophrem would huff slightly as she pointed toward the right. "I suggest we go zis way," she started, her voice a low murmur. "Zere is signs of struggle. If zey are already injured, zen it would be best to for us to come upon a weaker group. Easier to overpower should ze worst come to pass."
(Ophrem Levonte)
[18:11:37] Charlie Avaline: Yeeeaaaaaahhhhh ... Issue with that is well, you know, A BLOODY TRAIL!
[18:11:37] Charlie Avaline: Injured? Maybe devoured!
[18:11:37] Charlie Avaline: But hey, that's commonplace.
[18:11:37] Ophrem Levonte: Is more exciting, non~?
[18:12:28] Charlie Avaline: I guess. I'm going to assume the alchemists are over at that side though.
[18:12:28] Ophrem Levonte: Ze alchemists are not our concern, madame. Ze newts are.
[18:13:20] Charlie Avaline: Was thinking they'd lead us to newts. But, fine. We'll go to the spooky blood path.
[18:16:44] Ophrem Levonte: Ze less distractions, ze better. <-glance at Veridia->
[18:16:44] Charlie Avaline: Okay let's do this then.
{NARRATION} The bloody path it was. They would make their way along. As they went, the footprints would become noticeably deeper, until, it looked as if one of the people ahead had had to drag the other along. The blood would become thicker, until, finally it stopped appearing. A foreboding sign, to be sure. It wouldn't be long however, until they would run into the people they were following. Leaned up against a tree, would be the wounded alchemist. Another one would be tending to him, though, it would seem she had run out of things to use. A wrap was visible through his cloak, something to stop the bleeding. For now, the two hadn't noticed them. But, it was clear if they attempted to move forward, that they would. They had a choice here, turn back, or continue on through. Though, from the looks of things, it did not seem they would be recieving a warm welcome
[18:28:41] Well, these were much better odds.

As Ophrem had anticipated, the slightly spooky path had taken them directly into the line of sight of two of the alchemists. One heavily injured, the other tending to the wounds of her fallen comrade. She could not help but gloat inwardly. Was this not preferable to running into four, uninjured and poweful alchemists at full strength?

Ophrem would move to stand behind Charlie and Veridia, eyeing the pair against the tree as she spoke softly to the two older women. "See? As I said. Zere is no way 'e can fight at full strength wis zose injuries."

Her voice was low and quiet, a whisper so as not to draw the attention of the two blocking their path. Her words came out as a hiss, her eyes piercing and focused as she stared forward. "Zis need not come to violence, but eef zis does, we target ze injured one first. Zis will distract 'is ally, and give 'er reason to make mistakes.

"Wouldn't you agree, madames~?"
(Ophrem Levonte)
[18:31:15] And they moved on to the bloody path. Not the best idea given how Charlie was a horror novel enthusiast, but whatever. This wasn't a book. In any case, they'd likely run into some frenzied critter and they'd have to slice 'n' dice through to hopefully return with at least one limb.

Eventually, the trail of blood would lead to what seemed to be a couple of individuals, one clearly wounded. Charlie squinted while using the cover offered by a nearby tree to stay out of sight if the healthy individual were to eventually notice them in the middle of a path.

"Tch, great ..."

She mumbled to herself, unsure as to how this should even be engaged. The guy was wounded, and as a doctor it'd be routine to at least consider offering help. But the stranger danger alarm rang, and being trusting in these circumstances was obviously foolish.

Eyes glanced at her squad, though a biggest focus was given to Ophrem whom the input would be a little more valuable.

"So, diplomacy, take the wounded out ... Like he doesn't even seem capable to stand. This won't be hard if it ends up sour."

Charlie whispered, considering their chances.
(Charlie Avaline)
[18:39:47] They'd continue on the path for awhile. It was bloodly for some reason or another. All she knew was that it wasn't her. She'd know if she'd made a masterpiece like this. She'd probaby call it something like Fun Avenue or something like that. That was some name she wouldn't forget.

Either way, she'd come to see someone down the trail. A wounded man leaning against the tree. It was something that caught her attention.

She'd find herself quickly looking over to Charlie to see what she had to say about it. If they were just going to do some boring talking. Or were they going to have some FUN instead. She was hoping for latter. Even Charlie would be able to guess that. She usually knew what was on Veridia's mind.

"I think we should just have some fun with 'em." Would be Veridia only suggestion really.
(Veridia Alesci)
[19:09:39] Whether or not they could take them was not the point. It was whether or not they should. They had wasted plenty of time as it was. Another fight and they would be all that much farther away from their goal while their adversaries continued to gain.

A light huff was given in the direction of the red haired woman. Was her weapon all she thought with? "We cannot avoid zem, but we do not 'ave time to tally long..."

Perhaps they should just get it out of the way. The longer this took, the more likely it was that-- best case scenario-- the newts would be gone by the time they got there. Worst case, these rival alchemists would be the ones to reach them first and take the spoils for themselves.

"I will follow your lead, madame." Truth be told, Ophrem was not much of a fighter. She would prefer, given the time to do so, that they would try to work something out. But desperate times call for desperate measures.
(Ophrem Levonte)
[19:10:30] Charlie Avaline: Right. <*Emerges from the trees*> Howdy. You guys don't look so good!
[19:13:04] Dreya: <*Jumps up and points her knife directly at Charlie*>
[19:19:02] Dreya: Why are you here?
[19:19:02] Charlie Avaline: Uh ... We're looking for the newt colony.
[19:19:53] Dreya whispers something.
[19:19:53] Dreya: They aren't here. You can go look some other place.
[19:20:44] Charlie Avaline: Well my friend here disagrees.
[19:21:36] Ophrem Levonte: Eef you would be so kind as to tell us where your allies are 'eaded...
[19:22:27] Dreya: I don't know what your talking about...
[19:23:18] Charlie Avaline: So you set up four tents for two people?
[19:23:18] Charlie Avaline: Wowie missy I admire your logistics.
[19:24:09] Dreya: They...
[19:24:09] Dreya: Two tents were for... research
[19:24:09] Ophrem Levonte: Zen who did ze ozer footprints belong to, hm~?
[19:24:09] Dreya: I don't know. Yokai maybe?
[19:25:00] Ophrem Levonte: <-gives Charlie a 'can you believe this shit' look->
[19:25:52] Veridia Alesci: <*twiddles with her fingers to distract herself*>
[19:25:52] Charlie Avaline: Uh-huh ... Bullshit.
[19:25:52] Charlie Avaline: I'm really not up for this shit right now.
[19:26:43] Charlie Avaline: Tell me, how did you get injured?
[19:26:43] Charlie Avaline: What were you looking for?
[19:26:43] Dreya: We were looking for...
[19:26:43] Dreya: Soothe reed
[19:27:34] Dreya: Yes
[19:27:34] Charlie Avaline: Oh great, junkies.
[19:27:34] Ophrem Levonte: We passed several bushels on ze way 'ere.
[19:27:34] Dreya: Those weren't... high... quality enough?
[19:27:34] Ophrem Levonte: <-pouty frown->
[19:27:34] Charlie Avaline: No joints or syringes at the camp.
[19:28:25] Dreya: We eat it. Heated.
[19:28:25] Dreya: Like cabbage
[19:28:25] Charlie Avaline: Yeah, okay, just for that I should just leave you guys to rot.
[19:29:16] Dreya: We didn't ask you to stay.
[19:29:16] Dreya: I just said there's nothing past here, so you might as well turn back
[19:30:08] Charlie Avaline: Oh I'm moving forward, sweetheart.
[19:30:08] Ophrem Levonte: Zen what is ze 'arm if we continue forward?
[19:30:08] Dreya: We can't let you do that
[19:30:08] Charlie Avaline: Oh, so you're going to defend the sum total of nothing?
[19:30:59] Charlie Avaline: Wow jeez, I'm so convinced there's nothing now.
[19:30:59] Charlie Avaline: <*Irrittated beyond belief*>
[19:30:59] Dreya: Ok, the truth is...
[19:30:59] Dreya: There's a huge Crellus back there
[19:30:59] Dreya: Almost killed my friend here
[19:30:59] Charlie Avaline: Okay.
[19:31:50] Dreya: It's for your own good, my morals are telling me to not let you through
[19:31:50] Charlie Avaline: Spare me the mumbo jumbo.
[19:31:50] Charlie Avaline: Morals.
[19:31:50] Charlie Avaline: Bleh.
[19:31:50] Ophrem Levonte: Eef morals were a factor, you would 'ave been truthful from ze beginning.
[19:32:41] Charlie Avaline: Yeah, that.
[19:34:24] Coughs as he'd lean back upon the tree. He'd tightly close his eyes in attempt to coup with the pain, however this wasnt visible due to his hoodie covering his eyes. Over all his grunting he didnt quite hear what the group came for however he had his assumptions. Holding his hand over his taped up wound as he looks down at the rag dryed with blood. He'd give himself a push off the ground attempting to get up on his foot however with each striving attempt sharp pain struck through out his body.

With his now staggering look it was appereant that he was hurt. He'd slowly lift his head as he watches his comrade sprung up pointing her knife quite vigilatly. Slowly his hearing would return as he'd stop grunting over the pain listening in as he confirms his suspicion on what the group came for. Now on his feet he'd slowly strut over to Dreya placing his hand on her shoulders pushing himself forward meanwhile moving her back attempting to position himself infront.

" *Cough* Pardon us for what my comrade has said is true however not entirely you see we came in hunt for that Crellus. Originally their was four of us however as you can see the other two werent so lucky... Anywho we dont wish to intrude on your journey however we wish not if you were here while we are in the midst of our missio- *cough*"

Bends over as he lost all the oxygen he had all of a sudden attempting to regain his breathe before he'd take a knee. Shaking his head as that experience gave him a mild head-ache before turning back to the group.
(Listwin)
[19:36:57] Charlie Avaline: Y'know, we can treat those wounds.
[19:36:57] Charlie Avaline: But yeaaaah, we're going there, like it or not.
[19:36:57] Dreya: We won't let you.
[19:37:48] Charlie Avaline: <*Dull stare*>
[19:37:48] Dreya: <*Grabs and holds Listwin up, to make sure he is alright*>
[19:38:40] Dreya: Just, go back alright.
[19:38:40] Listwin: Treat me? Are you a doctor?
[19:38:40] Charlie Avaline: Yeah.
[19:39:31] Listwin: Ift thats the case than I'd be forever grateful if you do.
[19:39:31] Dreya: No! Listwin, we don't need their help.
[19:39:31] Charlie Avaline: <*Glances over at Ophrem, unsure what to do*>
[19:40:22] Listwin: Dreya, calm down as we are now we cannot do what we came here to do in my current state.
[19:41:13] Dreya whispers something.
[19:43:47] Listwin whispers something.
[19:45:29] This was going nowhere, and fast.

The young teen let out a soft sigh as she moved past Charlie, sauntering over to the woman holding the man upright. She smiled softly, her plump lips curling as she reached out and gingerly put a hand upon the older woman's arm. "Dreya, oui? Zis is a very pretty name...~"

A darting glance would be given to Charlie. Whether or not this would work, something had to be done to break this circle of bickering. If the young alchemist wished to treat the man's injuries, then so be it. But it was clear the older woman would need to be eased into complacency.

There were several ways the young, voluptuous child could imagine doing such things, but for now her way with words and endearing nature would have to be used in a much more innocent manner.

"Madame," she began, her voice low and genteel as she lightly massaged the stranger's forearm in a comforting manner. "Like zis or non, your friend is in grave danger. I can see 'is life ebbing away, even as we speak. Now, you could be stubborn, and refuse us entry, or you could allow my lovely companion 'ere to see what she can do for 'im, and then we go our separate ways.

"Zis works for everyone, non~?"
(Ophrem Levonte)
[19:46:20] Charlie Avaline: Works for me.
[19:51:28] Veridia Alesci: <*looking off eatting a cookie*>
[19:52:19] Dreya: Uh, Hm.
[19:52:19] Dreya: Fine.
[19:52:19] Dreya: You can heal him up.
[19:52:19] Dreya: <*turns away*?
[19:52:19] Dreya: >
[19:53:10] Ophrem Levonte: <-turns to Charlie and giggles quietly with a wink->
[19:58:17] Eyes narrowed at the current predicament. These people were just so strange and out of it. What was this? Blocking them out of morality? Please, this was the marshlands, everything was out to kill, it'd be stupid to think this would deter anyone. Charlie did not trust these people from the getgo and wasn't going to start doing so all of a sudden.

"Alright then."

A simple flask would be taken out of her bag and passed over to the wounded male. He'd be able to catch it at the slow speed it was going.

"Drink this. It'll take about an hour for you to recover from the worst, but it should keep you stable."

Quite the lazy alternative, though it was selected for a reason. The Avaline wasn't going to invest more than necessary at this point.

"We're not going to stop and treat this man, however. I'm not stupid, I ain't restoring a potential danger. I'll help you out on the return, but for now? We're moving forward and getting this done."

A tone filled with authority and raw strength. A leader that wouldn't capitulate to the shadiness of these people. One needed help? Fine, but it wasn't going to be the royal treatment. Charlie adjusted the bag on her back and gestured the others to come.

"This is the marshlands, telling us to turn away is as absurd as telling a Yokai hunter to stop because Yokai are 'dangerous'. We'll be back after we've finished."

She'd move forward, expecting to get stopped at this point.
(Charlie Avaline)
[20:01:42] {combat} Dreya has been defeated by Listwin! They're unable to continue fighting.
[20:11:05] Catches the bag as he sips the material as he'd stops leaning on Dreya for support. He still felt the acks and burns from the wound however he had no time to soak in the midst while he had work to do. He'd reach for his staff as he pulls it out extending it over towards Charlie attempting to refrain her from advancing. Wiping his chin from the lingering potion.

"I regret to inform that I cannot allow you to advance, my magic affects large amounts of areas, you being here will put your own health at risk of being affected and I'm afraid I cannot go on with that in mind."

His eyes twitched as now that he was upclose his eye movement would be appereant for anyone looking at him. He had a menacing glare as well as a grave frown. As he spoke sprinkles of spores would slowly form from out the flowers and grass patches in the area however he had yet to release them attempting to persuade them further before resorting to an all deph brawl.


(Listwin)
[20:12:48] Ophrem Levonte: Seems we 'ave only one option, madame Avaleene...
[20:22:11] Dreya: <*her eyes go wide. Certain she knows what that one option is, she lunges forward, knife drawn*>
[20:24:44] Ophrem Levonte: JESUS I MEANT WE LEAVE CALM YOUR TITS.
[20:25:36] Oh she was fuming. Liars standing in her way as she actually fed them some of her pity by gracing them with a potion SHE could have used for her own flock. A slowly tilt of her head would cause her neck to crack somewhat, slowly morphing to one of a woman completely done with 'this shit'.

"You know what? Fuck this."

She nodded at Ophrem, confirming that there was indeed one solution to this. Wolfsbane would be gripped firmly and sapphire optics would pierce the souls of those who stood in her way.

"Veridia, we're about to have a lot of fun."

She forced a smirk, but clearly the doctor had no intention of hiding the fact that she was indeed completely pissed off. They were going to get out of the way, no matter the required means.

"Just don't kill them. Not unless you gotta."

Intentions were clear, now it was free game.
(Charlie Avaline)
[20:40:57] They'd lost Veridia's attention awhile ago. For the longest, Veridia had been staring off into the distance. Every now and than, putting a cookie in her mouth every now and again. It was really calming actually. Veridia almost forgot that she was here. What remained her was when Charlie had finally called her out.

The word that grabbed her attention was, of course, her well known trigger word. "Fun?" She'd say as she'd turned to charlie with an expression of both confusion and excitement. What she'd did to the crellus didn't quite hold her over on the fun factor. But, she'd than laid her eys on the two individuals that seemed to act alittle hostile towards the trio.

Veridia would have just smiled. Veridia didn't hear the part when Charlie said don't kill him. That or she just didn't want to hear it. Either way, Veridia quickly got ready by pulling the scythe off her back and holding it out against the two.

A little too hyped up for what was about to happen really
(Veridia Alesci)
[20:52:54] A soft sigh elicited from the young girl's lips. This was not how she had wanted things to go at all.

It would have been so much easier for the three if these two had just stepped aside and allowed them to pass. Whatever it was that they were guarding, one could only hope that it was worth their lives, because that was what was on the line here.

Ophrem closed her eyes, releasing a deep exhale as the world began to still around her. As they slowly opened her once cerulean orbs were covered in a milky film as if she were possessed. A palpable coldness could be felt eminating from the girl as she stretched her hands out to the side, otherworldly gusts gathering at her feet as her consciousness left the realm of the norm and entered into the ephemeral.

She was no fighter, that much was certain. It was lucky then that she had something that could fight for her.

Visible only to those with the ability to see mana or with spiritual allegiances of their own, a dark miasma of stagnant energy would envelope the raven-haired beauty. Her hands became conduits, extensions for the claws of the tutrice that had been standing forever patient and waiting behind her, a gargantuan creature with no face and wings that seemed to stretch out across the sky ad infinum.

As her haired danced in the breeze her lips would part, and the voice that came forward was completely unlike her own. A deep baritone coupled with her normally soft feminine tones, it was as if two voices were speaking at once.

"Interloper. Make this quick, for we are losing time."
(Ophrem Levonte)
[21:15:05] Glorious.

That was the only word that the being could use to describe the sensation that quivered down its spine. The feel of anger as the combatants clashed, the scent of fear carried upon the wind. The sight of the blood as it grew in ever more copius amounts. Such sensations were dulled, muted when all it did was follow its master, bound to her word and her whim as if it were nothing more than a rabid dog, barely held back by its chain.

But now, for just the briefest of times, the chain was broken, and it was free.

Ethereal magic came into play as the tutrice used it considerable power to command the otherworld around it. Spirits were brought to provide succor to the dwindling energy reserves of Ophrem's companions. Winds summoned to hinder and slow the enemy, laced with toxic components not of this realm. It had been too long since it had been capable of affecting the human world in this capacity, and it was relishing every moment.

Soon enough, too soon for its liking, the battle was over. Their little group had been the victor.

To the outside observer it would seem as if Ophrem had stepped forward, reaching one hand out toward Dreya's fallen form with fingers outstretched. Their tips would curl inward like claws and the beaten and battered alchemist would find herself yanked roughly into the air, the claws of the tutrice clasping tightly around her neck in a deadly vicegrip.

A smile played on Ophrem's lips, a sadistic look almost entirely not her own, as she spoke. Again her voice was laced with demonic malice, alien and masculine. "You have one chance to spare your own life. The newts. Where are they?"
(Ophrem Levonte)
[21:23:37] Dreya: (If not, and since you said they were big and dangerous, I'll probably use that to represent giant dangerous newt)
[21:25:20] While most seemed rather pumped to have this battle happen, Charlie was completely disinterested by it all. Wolfsbane was drawn, but otherwise no particularly unique stance was taken. When it'd come the time to charge, Charlie would just retaliate each time the enemy would get too close, delivering blow of superhuman strength to various points on her body with each passing moment.

Good thing there were people to assist the doctor, otherwise it would be as unenjoyable as she'd expect it to be. At least here Charlie could witness the capabilities of her apprentice. They were grim, but being an occultist herself, it didn't actually spark any particular intrigued in the alchemist. There were spooky ghosts and there were edgy things. It was only common sense they would interbreed one day.

With the opposing alchemist down, Charlie would bear witness to Ophrem's unnecessary brutality. Prompted to tap the teen's shoulder, the doctor was put to a complete halt when hearing the foul, disconcerting voice emitted from the lass. Unamused in the slightest, Ophren would get a strong smack on the forearm.

"Enough. For fuck's sake I said no killing."

Charlie's strength far surpasses Ophrem's and the alchemist would be let go. Blue optics fixated the woman.

"Alright. The newts. I ain't gonna kill you, and neither is the thing over there. We kicked you asses, we can handle ourself. Don't make me truth serum you."
(Charlie Avaline)
[21:31:18] Veridia quickly found herself engaged in fighting with the woman in the blue cloak. She'd use alot of different magics Veridia payed no attention to at all. Veridia was instead focusing alittle on what she was doing for once in a fight. She'd seemed to play more of an supportive roll than the bigger one she wanted to play.

The one that got to have the big, fun, moment at the end of these types of fights. But it seemed the honor would have been given to Ophrem instead of her. Which was alittle depressing, but Veridia was only left to guess that she'd just need to play abigger part when they fight another person like this. Than maybe she'd get the shot to decide if someone lives or died. She didn't often get the choice.

She notice that they went on to talk about some stuff she'd mostly find herself uninterested in. So she'd look off as they chattered away. And became mostly uninterested when she'd finally hear Charlie say that there would be no killing taking place. Alittle heartbreaking really.

Her eyes went back to the coast as they spoke about newts and stuff of the sorts. It wasn't something that grabbed her attention. She was only out here to hunt after all.
(Veridia Alesci)
[21:34:43] Dreya: They're that way! Just, no more!
[21:34:43] Charlie Avaline: <*Eyebrow raise*> That easy? Alrighty then.
[21:35:34] Charlie Avaline: Your pal SHOULD live with what he drank.
[21:35:34] Dreya: I see...
[21:36:25] Charlie Avaline: Veridia, this one needs to have extra fun. Tuck her in for a little nap, would ya?
[21:40:41] The not-so-gentle tap upon the girl's arm would draw the being's attention, Ophrem's gaze snapping to the side to glare at Charlie. If it were in full control, such transgressions would not be forgiven so easily.

But the girl would not allow the beast such freedoms. Slowly the milky white substance would receede from Ophrem's eyes, leaving her gaze crystal clear. She held Charlie's gaze for a long bit, her hand shaking as the alchemist struggled in the air, fighting against the invisible grip that held her aloft by the throat.

"Tch..."

With a violent gesture the woman was released, thrown roughly to the ground. The disdain upon the young girl's face was evident, coupled with a grimace of pain. Her head throbbed with the spiritual pressure, and as she rubbed her temple a thick, black liquid substance began to ooze out of her right nostril. As the liquid tickled her flesh she frowned, placing her fingertips to it and pulling them back.

Once again, ectoplasm was escaping whatever free orifice offered the least resistance. At least this time it was not violent projectile vomitting.

Disinterested in the fate of the woman, and having the information that they desired, Ophrem excused herself for a moment, turning away from the others to dab at her nose with a handkerchief. Once she was clean, she would simply stand with her arms folded and back to the group, quite obviously not feeling like herself just yet.
(Ophrem Levonte)

[21:48:22] "Just a nap?" A small frown was on her face for a moment as Charlie told her just to let her take a small nap. But a small one would appear as she looked at the woman. If you could call that a smile atleast. The other would have moved away, allowing Veridia to move infront of the woman.

Veridia would grip her hands tightly on the handle of her scythe and held the blunt end up to the woman's head. She'd move the handle slowly back and forth. Booping the woman on the head every few moments. After a fews, Veridia brought the handle all the way back. The flow of time around herself and Veridia slammed the handle of the scythe right into the woman's forehead. Something strong enough to make her land flat on her back.

And of course knock her out as well. "Have a nice Nap... I guess." Veridia shrugged as she put the scythe back onto her back and looked to Charlie.

"There were more fun ways..." She'd muttered.
(Veridia Alesci)
{NARRATION} With Dreya knocked out, and her fellow alchemist having passed out somewhere along the way, it seemed there was nothing stopping the group from moving on. Ahead of them, the path would be quite straight. Clearly, this was the way to go. Though, before they left, the group would notice a couple of things. Namely, things they could take. Surely, they had no qualms taking these things from the people who had held up their progress, wasted their time, and had tried to both kill them, and take the newts up ahead for themselves. (So, the rolls were as followed. 1, a fluff reward of finding a weak potion base, to be used in future potion dev. Charlie recieves that. 2. Was a ring 3 with a bonus 6 crit added onto it. 3. Was nothing, because no third body or reward on easy path)
[21:55:12] Dreya: (So, Charlie gets a generic potion base that can be examined and strengthened for potion dev, Veridia gets special ring, and Orphrem searched a non existant third body)
[22:01:10] That was that. Knocked out, now looting would be permitted. Sacking was simple: They'd leave whatever necessities such as at least a weapon and their food/water. The rest? Delcacies for them to consume. Charlie would indulged in whatever was in the pocket of the wounded man, and lo and behold, a potion base of sorts. Worth investigating, but the newts held much higher value.

"This was ... Annoying."

The bottle and base would be set into her bag as Charlie now faced the direction given by the woman. Nodding to herself, she'd then turn to her crew, a slightly more optimistic gaze.

"Almost outta here. I think. Let's just hussle this quick and we should have the newts quickly enough."

And as they marched forward with no pesky alchemist in the way, they'd eventually meet the dreaded colony ...
(Charlie Avaline)
[22:02:01] Ophrem Levonte: <-pouting too much to bother with searching->
{NARRATION} With the Alchemists looted, there wasn't much else to do here. Now, it would just be best to be on their way. The group would head forward down the path. For now, nothing notable would happen. No amazing discoveries, though, not much danger either. Really, it would be quite boring. But, one could suppose that boring was better then deadly. Soon enough however, they would happen upon where the colony of newts was... supposed to be? This was the location. But, it would only take a cursory glance to notice that there weren't any huge newts here..? However, that would be when they would hear it. The cries of newly hatched newts. If, they could stomach it, perhaps they could harvest what they needed from them? Individually the hatchlings wouldn't offer as much as a full grown newt. Though, the number of hatchlings alone would make up for that.
[22:14:49] Charlie Avaline: Veridia. Fun time! Avoid their stomachs, if you can.
[22:26:46] Veridia picked up a ring that fell off the Alchemist. She usually wasn't one for loot, but she might as well take something to remember the experience. There there wasn't much to remember to be completely honest.

After a few moments, they'd gone down a path. A boring and dull path where nothing happened at all. Veridia felt like she was going to loose it if she didn't actually do anything REALLY fun, REALLY soon.

But than, she'd hear something that caught her attention. Cries of something unfamiliar to her. She'd walk towards the sounds and soon found baby newts. They weren't lizards, and weren't exactly large Charlie promised but never the less they were cute. Veridia found herself playing with one. It was a different type of fun for once, one that was lightly entertaining and required no effort at all. Veridia seemed to be enjoying herself

Than Charlie gave the order to have some fun with the newts. "Huh? Oh... 'kay." Veridia had her hands around the head of a hatchling before the order came to her. The poor thing was about to become the first victim of a massicure. And there was nothing but her smile on her face.

Her hands would have begun to apply a withering effect to the newt's head. It would have probably attempted to escape from her grasp at that point if it wasn't too confused on what was going on. But Veridia didn't let go. No, she did just the opposite. She'd begun to apply pressure. It only too a few moments before she'd turned the newt's head into mashed dish. She'd stood up and looked around to others.

She'd pulled the scythe off her back and started driving the blade through each hatchling's head. Avoiding the stomach, just as she was asked. It didn't take long to get through most of them. The other two were free to join. But they probably didn't want to get their hands dirty.

So it was likely Veridia did it along. And when she was done, she'd looked at Charlie with the smile on her face. "Done."
(Veridia Alesci)
[22:28:28] Newborns? Good. A cruel act, but one that would be worth it. They did NOT want to fight a wave of adults. Sure, Charlie would do it if needed, but it seemed the reward was being served on a silver platter. The least she could do was have Veridia execute them quickly enough and leave the deceased bodies to dissect later.

Hopefully there wouldn't be too much damage during the Alesci's frenzy as Charlie would rush in to examine the first carcasses. First her hand would run through the scaly abdomen of the first hatching she'd find, turning it over a bit if need be. Upon getting a good feel of the softer underbelly, a scalpel would be taken out of the bag while she kept her gloves since the camping site.

"Ophrem, I'll need you for this. Well, rather I'll need you to watch so you can do this by yourself afterward."

It was practucally an order given her tone. The scalpel would rune through skin, muscle and even internal organs in the way. Once opened up with a rather large incision, a hand would be shoved into the entrails of the critter barely her size. She'd search for what would seem to be about five minutes before a small, flat organ -barely the size of her palm- would be extacted. Veins connecting it to the system would promptly severed.

"You can find it near the stomach and pancreas. Depending on its position and size, you may find it a little farther down though."

The organ would be quickly placed in a conserving, large flask with a rune written on it. The organs are to be all shoved in there.
(Charlie Avaline)
[22:33:36] Ophrem followed after Charlie and Veridia in relative silence. Such displays as was given before were emotionally and mentally draining upon the girl, and she was having a bit of a difficult time dealing with the emotions that the tutrice had embedded in her. Anger, hatred, murderous intent. She had known full well what kind of creature she was calling in the attic, even if she had conveniently left that information out when explaining it to Charlie.

But blatantly drawing upon its power like she did was borderline possession, and it left her feeling uneasy with her stomach churning. It was a stroke of luck that she wasn't puking once more.

The massacre of the infant newts was not something that she particularly enjoyed witnessing, though it was what they had come here for. There was something a bit off about the situation. Where had all the adults gone? Ophrem was no zoologist, but it seemed unusual that the nest had been left entirely alone for any predator to stumble upon.

Was it luck? Or had someone, or something, else gotten to the major spoils before them?

In the end, it did not matter. The sheer number of the babies was more than enough to make up for the lack of quality, and as the order had been given Ophrem would nod, crouching down next to the older woman as she watched through half-lidded eyes how the procedure was done. It did not take too very long for Charlie to vivisect the dead body and extract the gland, but that was to be expected of someone who had not only done this before but was so skilled in her field as it was.

"As you say, madame..." Ophrem replied after the demonstration was given, her voice a bit shaky if for no other reason than the light bout of nausea that was eminating through her gullet. She would force it down as best she could, made easier with a task ahead of her that she could focus upon.

And so the girl made her way forward, helping Charlie remove the organ one by one, until there were none left to harvest.
(Ophrem Levonte)
{NARRATION} One by one, the group would make their way through the infant Newts. Extracting the required organs, and setting them into a special container. Soon, they would seem to be through all of them. With no more hatchling newts, and the threat of the adults returning, the group would make their exit swift. Returning back the way they had came, the other two alchemists would still be knocked out. Surely, they could take care of themselves. Off in the distance however, they could ust barely make out the sounds of screaming, and the angry roaring of, presumably, the now returned newts. At least, now they knew what happened to the other group of occultists. It was probably best they kept going.