Neoni's death

[18:05] {NARRATION} With Silverall in the distance, the horns and tribal chants of the tribes of Moxtli can be heard in the south. War cries soon emanating throughout the woods, though the sound of marching can be heard approaching from the northwest. War machines of Achyon coming into view, their organized force prepared to strike at the encroaching tribals

With Silverwall being a contested region for years now, this battle is more important than ever. Rich resources held deep within the mines, not to mention the territory itself.

(Leaders RP first, then others, and matchups shall be posted afterwards.)
[18:10] An advance upon Silverwall that became inevitable at this point. This is what it was. A turning point in Achyon's history; whether it came out of this victorious or not would not change the fact that after this? Everything was going to be different.

People would die. A deal would have to be struck in some sort of way, lest the savages insist on keeping the bloodshed going. Bruno had no intention of such. His interest was for the Empire to grow, flourish, and accomplish its goals.

War with the Moxtli was not in their best interest.

Far from liking them, the Aertas knew that he'd have to tolerate them to some extent if they wished to obey the Coalescence's orders.

There was no going around it.
(Bruno pyr Aertas)
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[18:19] {NARRATION} Eiji vs. Bruno
Tono'tli vs. Lyndis
Jani vs. Ryker
Talacael vs. Neoni
D'Noxa vs. Eve
Kim Se-Young vs. Glade
Lannis vs. Wolfgang
Itzul vs. Sinbad
Yaluk vs. Thanasis
Feiyan vs. Gareth
Favi vs Shu
Katja vs Alpha

(Danger Cap 1 recommended.)

[18:26] There they came over the hill.

Amidst Silverwall's rocky exterior remained the swordsman. Khazid remained planted in the ground, the earth barely able to hold the six-foot even blade upright. Yet the Mythril prosthetic aided its station.

Plucking it from its dirt home the Kitsune begins the slow strides forth. Bathed in crimson starlight one can easily catch the wide, fanged grin that sprouts as Bruno begins to make their way through the ranks. A palm is drawn across the bronze edge as he chimes.

"I welcome you to my performance..! Ceti, Khazid, and I have all been hankering for a bit of blood these days." A bubbling laugh begins to take hold within his throat. "You'll do though, you'll do!.. The other sharpshooters they send can't hit shit during our performances."

Would they be different?

Squeezing his right hand he'd let the blood spill freely. "For Eznite-- Do be watching, old bear..!" Soon that laughter rises into a full on cackle; Crimson motes permeate and concentrate at his feet before he lunges forth!

The mad Kitsune is on the hunt.
(Eiji)
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[18:26] The objective was to claim the land. To pick off as many magi left and right as possible. To defeat those who couldn't defend themselves before their own were defeated. It was dirty. It was military tactic. Intel had been relayed upon their troops in order for them to be ready for what was to come.

Cosmic energies that burned as red as blood. This had to be Eiji. The reports that were made by that person were always accurate. Exact. Perfect. A role-model for all to follow. He would thank them when he returned.

Final Answer found its barrel pointed towards the beastman before any word - any exchage could come. This was no place for pleasantries and fun. This was a battle. Every word wasted could be a breath that saved your life. The metallic bearhead roared out with lightning, unleashing a volley of sparks towards the man.

One could only wonder which bear of theirs would triumph.
(Bruno pyr Aertas)
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[18:31] {Lost Dangerous RPB against Eiji}
[18:31] * You have been awarded 1 Roleplay Points! *
[18:31] ** Eiji has inflicted an injury upon Bruno pyr Aertas. ("Permanent Injury", "Permanent Injury", "Permanent", "Severity: MODERATE (-10 Vit)") **
[18:39] Cackling - It was all so maddening from the Kitsune. The whispers, the arcs of blood that'd spill from both, it was all so intoxicating. Baring that pointed, wicked grin Ceti's performer continues to keep the gap between the two as small as possible.

Bruno, however, was no easy dancing partner.

Hellish bolts rain from overhead as they seemingly vanish before his eyes. Eiji snarls, swiftly turning on his heel to give chase. Occultic magic sought to sap away his life and defenses-- Hel, even his strikes sometimes wove through the shadows he bent.

Yet the Kitsune remained vigilant - Feral, even, in his hunt. Bronze cuts deep through armor and clothing alike whilst flames seek to overtake the Aertas' being. A supernova through and through...

Yet it was far to close to call it a victory.

Snarling and cackling the mad swordsman finally finds the one moment to intercept them. A massive beam of Occultic energy is sent his way-- Doom, surely, would've come for him!

Until the crimson motes guide him on another path. Weaving just barely past the beam he'd draw Khazid through it as he howled, "PERFECT, PERFECT..! FINALLY A WORTHY FUCKING HUNT!" Drawing the behemoth blade up above his head as he entered Bruno's field of vision - bloodied and weathered - one last strike settles the match...

Bruno's forearm is severed in one decisive swing of the blade. Cackles of a man far gone from sanity ring out, the warrior far too focused on claiming the severed limb... It's enough for Bruno to get away, in truth.

Khazid had been sated further regardless.
(Eiji)
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[18:59] Miscalculations and weaknesses had been more and more common for Bruno in the recent times. There was no way he could properly match up to an opponent who's heart called for a hellish dance if the Aertas' own was still wounded after that brush-up against an Ascended Demon. His mind was elsewhere and it showed in the way that he moved with his body.

Too many shots were missed. Too many blows were taken. For one who always seemed to be able to create distance between himself and his opponent this was a major, incredible flaw. How did he always let Eiji get so close to him?

Swing of his blade after swing tore at Bruno's clothes, clanking against his armor. A step into the shadows was not even enough to avoid the dreadful fate that awaited him.

As Bruno shifted back his right hand aimed his machine-gun down towards the Kitsune, spraying him forth with a volley from Hel itself, only for his left hand to stretch outwards when ammo ran low, arm extended to unleash a calamity of occultic energies.

The earth below was torn apart, the skies cried out for mercy, and yet? The Aertas had failed to notice his opponent slipping by the massive beam. A single slash of his blade was all that it took for Bruno's arm to be severed. Down from his elbow nothing remained. Skin and flesh were drawn by the powerful winds created by his own magic - desintegrating any chance at re-attaching what had been lost in one fell swoop.

.. And that's when it erupted. Occult influences - madness. An insantiy forged within one's very mind; the weight of failure he felt from never living up to the expectations set upon himself by his grandparents. This inheritance they all failed to grasp.

This power.

Would their ancestor look upon them in shame? He should. Audible screams, sounds, groans all left him as his blood sprayed upon the green grass, leaving naught behind but the memory of failure.

"I'll..."

Bruno had never been one to lose his composure.

"I'LL KILL YOU!"

Evidently he was being pushed further and further down insanity lately. His body twisted to face Eiji directly. The mythrial bear-head began crackling with a red and vile energy, sparks from Hel itself pushing the very limits of his weapon as the screams from the underworld were left unheard.

Lightning bathed in blood and night rushed towards the Kitsune, destroying everything in its path to force him away, to allow for a proper retreat under sparks of crimson and vantablack, eradicating light as it was.

The occultist was losing his mind, and it showed.
(Bruno pyr Aertas)
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[19:36] The battle was one that would sear itself into the memory of the chieftain for the coming years, or months, dependant on how long he actually lived from this point. The power that was held behind the blows of Neoni a familiar sight.

His previous two defeats by the man wiped clean, his blows holding no hesitation even as they danced along the battlefield that continued to hold the cries of Moxtli tribesmen and Achyon soldiers.

Lips parted as they split disengaged from one another.

"This. This has been a long time coming."

Arrow after arrow, mixed in-between a gradual web of illusion that weaved themselves around the pair, hiding the poisonous threat that the chieftain was known for.

A perfect combination for a hunter, his bow allowing him an advantage of range over the Commander of Achyon. Until finally, their fight slowed, Talacael's breathing gradually becoming irregularly as his chest heaved.

Blood, continuously pumped through his veins, mana never ceasing to run along his circuits as a billow of noxious gases slammed ahead into the body of Neoni, invading directly into the man's body.

Talacael's emerald hues took on a cold stare, watching on as the prey that he had chosen for this hunt gradually succumbed to the poison that had a paralysing effect. His mana circuits wilting beneath the corrosive poison that ran through Neoni's circuits. The feeling of such a foreign intrusion no doubt causing pain of an unfathomable degree.

"...The weapon you used against me, was my brothers, used for my life. That. That was something I never forgot, even as tribesmen continued to regale tales of victory to me. You. You never left my mind, Neoni Faudain."

The only person to actually defeat the Chieftain. The dying wails around them zoned out, and instead he slowly stepped closer towards the downed Commander. His predatory gait never ceasing, a decision already made within his mind.

"My brother, forced into a vow."

Teeth were held back from biting into his lips, no crimson ichor of his own spilled this time by the chieftain's actions.

"Go on ahead, Neoni Faudain. Go and be judged for your crimes against the spirits."

An arrow was drawn, his bow steadily placed across his back once more as the shaft of the arrow was held by a tightened grip, a boot hooking underneath the body of Neoni to push the Commander onto his back.

Emerald hues locking with pale lilac hues.

"Your people will join you."

And with those final, ominous parting words. The Chieftain closed the distance between the Faudain, falling to a crouch beside the paralysed man, clawed-tips idly tapping against the man's chest, perhaps as if to catch his attention.

Before the arrow's tip suddenly plunged into the side of the man's neck.

Talacael's attention never wavered, even as the victory of the Moxtli arrived, his eyes remained locked on the last death-throes of Neoni, someone that would be immortalized within the mind of the Meztin.

His body, taken within a grip. Belongings and all coming along with the Chieftain as the Moxtli steadily took control of the surroundings for future development.
(Talacael Meztin)
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[19:44] Neoni was defeated in battle, his defenses whittled down over time by Talacael's venomous touch.

He could feel his systems failing him as time worn on, his corrosive magic seeping deeper and deeper into his body until...

Schlick!
An arrow pierces his neck.

In an instant, Neoni's life was taken from him, and his belongings were more than likely to be shared between the people of Moxtli. No parting words, no speech, nothing.

He was dead.
(Neoni Faudain)
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[19:45] A defeat that would echo through time was brought upon the Empire on that day. Silverwall mines were decidedly taken over by the Moxtli Tribes, there was no denying it. The warnings he'd ushered the beast council may never come to light. Why negotiate for peace when one state is obviously far above another? They needed not to compromise; if they wanted Trik, Wolfgang, and Ixcatzin they would be able to take them back by force.

This was a complete defeat for Achyon.

Bruno reconvenied with the rest of his squad with wide eyes, pain in his heart, and a notably-missing left arm all the way up to the elbow. His sleeve had been tied into a knot to put pressure and avoid more bleeding than necessary. If it weren't for Final Answer being designed in such a way that it could be used with one or two hands he likely would have retreated all on his own, unable to properly defend himself.

However, here he was. Standing among his peers and with naught but the realization that the Commander was at Moxtli's mercy. While Bruno had ideas of displacing Neoni from his position he never thought that the occasion would come through death. A vote from the council was more likely to happen. A proper way to handle the matter. As it stood? They had nothing they could exchange that would be worth the Commander's life.

Three people, as little as they were worth for the Empire, were more valuable than the expendable life that was a Synthetic. This put Lyndis as the commanding officer.

.. Which meant that Bruno was the informal commanding officer after the modifications brought to the woman and her inherent trust in him. His mind was collapsing unto itself, his composure was fleeting, yet he knew that this very moment was one that would be important.

Much like he thought, win or lose this was a turning point for the Empire's outstretched hand. This was the moment where leadership had to be seized. Where power had to turn. Where one's allies would become most useful. Ryker would no-doubt follow Bruno's words in a moment like this. And so would Lyndis. The rest should have no issue to follow the chain of command.

"Unit L1-N615, grant me temporary command over the troops in your stead on this battlefield." He uttered, an order from a superior to allow him to become said superior was uncommon, yet in times of emergency such a tactic had to be employed. "Re-classify Synthetic Neoni Faudain's priority protocol from 'Protect at all cost' to 'Normal'. Prepare the troops for evacuation."

What followed next were Bruno's eyes lingering right upon the Chieftain's own, allowing him to witness the Aertas' complete and utter lack of care for the Synthetic life that was taken from before their eyes. Lips parted once more.

"Private Vasern. Private Glade. Sergeant Docro. Lieutenant Lyndis. Private Zannakis. Private Alpha. Sergeant Eve. Prepare for an immediate retreat. Silverwall has been lost."

Wolfgang was purposefully left out of his orders. He was no military personel, and in this case? Cutting that bond between him and Achyon was in their best interest.

"Chieftain. Shaman. The Empire is wishes to follow the most advantageous path for its growth. Your demands are known, and understood. Allow us a ceasefire for Achyon's council to give its proper response.

I, Bruno pyr Aertas, will contact you."
(Bruno pyr Aertas)
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[19:46] Wounds had caused a push back into these beasts land.

The sounds of gunfire and blades all clashing, his winds still pushing from a distance as gaze would soon settle upon one. One man which stood above the masses with hand around a soldier that was destined for this day, he who had once forced Lannis and his name beneath his thumb.

Neoni Faudain, The machine which had continued to push his armies march.

"He's finally gone. The Machines March... They have sustained a massive blow upon this day." His words followed by a mass of those spores being coughed up. Starlight around his figure searing and burning, though ever was Lannis excited to witness this moment.

One in which death would spill across Moxtlis land.

One in which a soldier would fall, staggering this machine as they marched as prideful as ever.

Guidance being given no longer. Even should such a machine now be rebuilt? His loss would send shockwaves across all of Achyon. Acting as a single reminder that their loss was upon that ever bright horizon.

"How... Wonderful. I truly do hope to see this machine rot in the coming years."

From its core outwards.
(Lannis Grimmore)
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[19:48] A cry on the wind.

A voice, so familiar. So pleasant. So beloved (in the most brotherly of fashions.)

Gareth turned his head a second time in his retreat. Behold!

Behold a shadow falling. Behold despair. Behold the truth of this forsaken land.

For all their efforts, it came to naught. The Osronans claimed the Blind Goddess, yet lacked a use for her. The Moxtli claimed Silverwall Mines, yet they were but primitives, without hope to use it to its full potential. The Deep Company stole away their comrades, for but petty coin.

This was an accursed place. A slice of Hel upon the earth.

There was no time to mourn. No time to shed an honorable tear. Turn your head, and keep running. Run fast, and run far.

There was still hope. The faintest sliver. A goal, so close in hand.

An iron sun would rise over the Essharan land, and choke out all beneath its forged radiance.

One final push, and ADAM would rise.

---

An order given. Something to hold on to. A scrap of sanity to retain.

"As you order! Footmen--with us! Fall back, keep your march until we can see the barrels of the gate's guns!"

So they returned to Achyon.
(Gareth Vasern)
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[19:52] With her battle with the Moxtli over. His words would simply ring into her mind as she dashed back to regroup with her comrades

Monster. Abomination. Garbage..
"...."

While perhaps such insults would never hit so close to home for the ruthless killing machine that Lyndis once was. Now more than ever, they'd strike her 'heart' like a cord. Her theories and calculations were correct. The world saw her as an...absolute monster. A being void of emotions who is a sin of humanity. She was not the next step of the evolution of perfect humanity for most people, no. She was...

An abomination.
"....Neoni?"

The sounds of the battlefield would ring throughout her ears as she caught wind of the given situation. A wide expression growing on her eyes as she sees her 'brother' battle damaged and weak on the floor. It was Eve all over again. Would she be able to save them this time
"...No..w-wait!"

She'd run across the bodies that plagued the battlefield in an attempt to save her brother. Perhaps even to negotiate or even fight for his life. Though, her recent information to her database already proved to her that these Moxtli simply had no will to negotiate. They were savages whose goal was to kill and destroy anyone who stands in their way...

Was Achyon so different?
"Get away from him! Neoni! Reinforcements are on the way! Don't worry."

"I'll...deal with him myself. If i...have too."

Guns were pointed at the Chieftain of the Moxtli. It would seem they were currently at a stalemate. With one having been captured on their side with another being captured on the other. Without a leader to lead their troops, it would seem it was time for Lyndis to step up to save her comrade. It was as if Achyon was fighting an uphill battle. There chances of winning with so many sides against them was...so low.

So...so very low...
"Aaah!"


It was as if the world had gone in slow motion once the arrow pierced the Synthetic's neck. A wide eyed, melancholy expression being present as the Synthetic threw her hand outward to try and rescue her brother. There was...nothing she could do but weep. For the Commander was gone. Her brother...Neoni Faudain, had perished
"NEONI!!!!!"

The Synthetic's cries would echo through the battlefield. While she was just a ruthless soldier and killing machine mere moments ago. Her sense of individuality that she had gained over the years would finally come to fruition. All she could feel within that database of hers was...fury. Melancholy. Sadness. If a Synthetic could cry. Perhaps she would do so now...
"..N-no..."

There would be a brief shake from the Synthetics body. As if she were malfunctioning. As if her program was fighting for her to stick to her protocol. Yet the hatred she felt for the Moxtli here and now was more than whatever protocol that she could possibly have been given.
"...I'm...i'm...going too...you're all...."

There would be stutters in the Synthetic's voice. As if she were trying to mimic a human who was crying. No tears would fall from her silver hues. Instead, they'd look up to her brother to meet his own. The last that she'd see of him. The last time
"...I'M GOING TO MURDER EACH AND EVERY LAST ONE OF YOU!!!!"

There would be a pristine burst of silver flame that would burst forth from Lyndis body as she stood up from the ground. Absolute fury in the Synthetics eyes as she stumbled toward the group. Electricity popped and rattled throughout the core of her body as her systems were completely overwhelmed by the sheer power coursing through all of it. If they had deemed Lyndis a monster? Than she definetly was the one she deemed right here and now. There was no kindness, empathy, or any will to stop her actions now.

All that was set in her mind? Was the idea of absolute and utter revenge
"All troops. Ready....on my command. Fire all your weapons! Kill every last one of the-!!!"

She would wave her hand forward to confirm the order until her programming would suddenly pierce her mind. Hearing Bruno's words, her order would suddenly fail to emit from her mouth. While she was the informal commanding officer of this squadron given Neoni's death. It would seem Bruno had...other ideas.
"..Wh-what?"

Given the alterations he had sneakily given to her. Lyndis would feel compelled...no..forced to give her position to Bruno. Even if such a thing was against her wishes in such a rage. Perhaps it was best for Lyndis to do so. Because if she hadgiven the order right here and now?

All of Achyon would perish
"...Right. Achyon soldiers! Prepare for....evacuation! Disengage combat and retreat toward the southern line!"


(Lyndis)
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[19:52] Slaughter and carnage - massacre and demise. If anything, Wolfgang's sole reason to pay witness and partake in Achyon's battles so frequently was to witness such phenomena. When Talacael snuffs the simulacrum of life that, as a contrived ember, sparked Neoni into motion and activity,

the fleshcrafter grins.

Was there no fidelity? No fealty? No devotion to hierarchy or reverence for a felled peer?

Obviously not. Soldiers would soldier on, but he remained what he had always been - a basilisk, coiling on top of its own gut and rejoicing in the chaotic vacuums left by the hindrances imposed to Esshar's power structures.

If it brought them more strife, more opportunity, and elbow room for the promotion of his interests, what harm could it do? They were not dead, yet - so live while the opportunity to do so remains.

"What a delightful spectacle."

And even so, it seemed to be steadily coming closer to its end.

As the Empire retreats, so does he. Their time was cut short by a trouncing defeat.
(Wolfgang)
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[19:53] There is a glance given to the Cheiftain. One of complete and utter disdain for the Moxtli that had killed her brother. It was time for Lyndis to step up to be the sister that Neoni knew she could be. And if she wanted to do so? She and her comrades would need to learn to fight for another day...
"...I'll make you proud, Neoni. I swear....i'll avenge you."

"Now then. Troops! Retreat on my command! Fall back so that we may live to fight again another day!"

And with that, Lyndis would reluctantly fall back with her fellow soldiers.
"..You're granted temporary command of the troops, Bruno. Come on. We don't have much time."

…Too fight again another day..
(Lyndis)
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[19:53] Moxtli won, with an important Achyon figure having been captured by the tribal forces and several more injured.

It was a bloodbath, but the victory against Achyon was surely crushing.

Yaluk found solace in the fact that his brother was safe- how couldn't he be? It was Favi, after all. However, he felt sadness wash over him as these pawns fell to the ground, lifeless in the name of meaningless pride.

A problem that he was forced to contribute to, one way or another. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath and uttering some words which could only really be heard by those close to him.

"May the fallen souls rest in peace.

He knew what Achyon desired to do.

He knew what Moxtli wanted.

In the end, he merely wanted unity to come so this dark era could pass.

For such a grand goal, stagnancy would be crippling- hence why he carved his imprint into the mountain.

Why he fought against himself.
(Yaluk Ixtan)
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[19:54] Jani chuckled, though doing so did hurt something fearsome. She felt no sympathy for Neoni, that is just one name that can be checked off of her list. Now she's down to two names.

Bruno pyr Aertas

Ryker pyr Docro.

As the enemy flees Jani grinned. "I'll see you soon Bruno." She's after all, been hunting him for quite some time now.
(Jani)
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[19:56] The return to the frontlines heralds the harbinger of Achyon's defeat in this battle. Far more than any other capture that has happened. It is Neoni Faudain himself, their Commander. The person who is in charge of Achyon's military might. And now, he falls in front of all. A demotivating action that demoralizes all the troops, even the officers. Albeit to Eve, it evokes a different response.

It is an arrow to the neck that delivers the coup de grace, slaying him with a simple finale that provokes no particular change other than the shifting of his state from living to dead. It severs the connection of his runic circuits from each other, destroying possibly the most pivotal of cores that he had within his body.

Eve's eyes are forced to watch all of this.

And what happens is simple. Perhaps it is Eve's own nature, perhaps it is the forced parasitic mana of Carnage dwelling within her.

Anger. Anger. Anger. Anger. Anger. Anger. Anger. Anger. Anger. Anger. Anger. Wrath. Vengeance.

An endless primal inclination surges within Eve's body, provoked by the simple act of slaying another Synthetic in front of her. Wide eyes stare at Neoni's corpse, as his soul departs for the stars. He too is living like any other, all of the Synthetics are alive and they possess a soul that cannot be tampered with. And yet, Neoni's is released. As if in an attempt to stop his soul from departing, Eve's hand raises.

All mana around her begins to get absorbed more and more. And a voiceless scream follows as her lips part. Synthetics can control their emotions, they can turn them off if necessary and negate even the most primal of inclinations within their body. However, owing to the fact that her systems are focused on stifling the forced bloodlust within Eve's body, she cannot.

"Neoni..."

Her 'family'. The person that taught all of the Synthetics to refer to each other as siblings. Perhaps Neoni's own making even stemmed from her, as she is the Prototype of several Synthetics that followed.

Project Eve.

In a sense...

Is this not like killing one's child in front of them?

The order of retreat is heard by Eve, and her feet begin moving. But her eyes are focused on Neoni's death. The gloom around her spreads, Eve's scream of anger isn't one of vocal reprisal. It isn't one of glamorous roaring, no. It is simple... empty.

Her eyes empty themselves of any light, as does the world around her.

The grass. The trees. Even the air itself. All is deprived of its mana as Eve continues to absorb everything around her. She devours, again and again. Like a ravenous fiend let loose on the world, Eve's control shatters, revealing simply a careless and reckless intent of absorbing all within her reach.

That is what the Aspect of Carnage desired, did it not? Eve's eyes focus on Neoni's killer. But her body is already in the motion for retreat, even as she devours all things. This will be remembered.

This cannot repeat.
This cannot happen again.
What if it is Lyndis whose life is robbed next? Or what if, she happens to awaken Adam, and his life is cruelly torn away from her?

Wordless and silent, Eve retreats, rendering all things around her still and silent as her gluttonous absorption continues to run wild.
(Eve)
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[19:56] "... Cowardice and cunning will give you nothing." Words which would be carried along the winds as it echoed with a sense of confidence. No man would ever be so brazen as to trust the voice carried and emboldened by machine.

Soldiers so ready and certain to continue this conflict, even should it cost them their very lives. Having found himself placed once more at the side of these tribesmen, wounds which had ever been present gradually shaken off.

"Those who would hesitate not a second to torment your people. Those who would offer nothing more than pain and suffering, intent on one day burning Moxtli to little more than ash and dust." Even should Neoni have fallen? Such a conflict was far from over.

"And now... They beg and plead for their lives. Yearning to be given a chance of survival, it's almost poetic that a machine is undone by the blessings of Beastkin." Scoffing all the while as soldiers had begun their retreat.

No more gunfire echoing.

No more blood being spilled.

Simple bliss in the fact that Moxtli would stand proud. His name would stand alongside this banner of victory, nothing less.

"How... Tragic."

His crimson gaze flashing, Antares burning within those eyes once more.
(Lannis Grimmore)
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[19:57] Observing as Neoni was killed, he looked around at the soldiers. How would they react to this? The battle had been won and Silverwall was theirs. He figured that this was going to be a long night for them.

He then notices Wolfgang in particular, were they a chaotic deviant like Favi? He pops a squat observing them as they turn and retreat, their leader gone and their belongings stripped from their body like hyenas devouring a gazelles carcass.

"Favi hopes they get stronger!"

He yells aloud as they march away. His hands were twitching a bit, side effects of the rage potion. That whole time on the battle field he was trying to channel the Aspect of Wrath onto the battle field.

Would the deity take note of his festivities here today?

"Wrath spirit, COME TO ME!" He was off to the side now waving his gun in the air and looking up to the sky, he was waiting for that deep sleep to wash over him and take him to the one he desired.

But... that probably wouldn't happen!
(Favi Ixtan)
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[19:58] Katja's cloak of speed unfurls, revealing the Sirenian on the side of Moxtli. A quick flick of her blade, and a splatter of oil dots the grass before both armies. Her sword is sheathed, and she takes a look at the victory that had been had.

A ceasefire. Achyon was fleeing from the sight of the battle after a decisive victory. Moxtli would be celebrating this, no doubt.

"What a day."

Just like the day before where Lyndis begged for forgiveness in front of the Deep Company. The fights would be winding down in the future, and for Katja?

Losing the reason to fight would be a true death.
(Katja)
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[20:00] Lyndis says, "....."
[20:03] "What an interesting claim, Aertas."

Wolfgang's fingers snap thrice, producing a verdant spark from their wriggling stems at each mining tap. Temporal energy slithers aslant the atmosphere, stagnating it - chilling it.

Coercing heat into a stagnant pause.

"Tell me, now - have you lost your wit?"
(Wolfgang)
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[20:07] Edel pyr Docro asks, "Where's the commander?"
[20:07] Ryker pyr Docro says, "....."
[20:11] After a retreat back home the conclusion as to what had to be done became as clear as day; a single rat, a mere servant to the Docro, and an outsider were not enough reason to engage in warfare with others. The losses subsided over the fleshcrafting arts were far too great for the Empire to keep on protecting those it had.

When Wolfgang words were spoken some followed coming from Bruno's lips. He may not have officially taken up command of the military but today was as good as any to take care of what had to be taken care of.

"Until the Council's decision is made, I believe it is best you, Councilman Trik, and Ixcatzin are brought in a holding cell."

A pause is given, a glance made down towards his own missing left arm, then up to the fleshcrafter.

"I request that you trust my intent. We can speak upon it in more details between the two of us."

He didn't even reach for the anti-magic restraints on his person; there was a reason he was not being all that... offensive about it. Appearances and words were often tools used in proper warfare. Blue eyes stuck onto Wolfgang's own, speaking of their own.

"I am certain Lyndis agrees: Come peacefully. Trust those who have fought for you."

No more details. The world could not know.
(Bruno pyr Aertas)
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[20:11] The Lieutenant awaited in the plaza for the troops at Silverwall to return. Though, some returning scouts brought troubling intel that she wished to hear for herself.

Many speak of the fall of the Commander which left her staring off in anticipation of their return. It's troubling.

"Someone give me a report." She stared at her brother. "Now."
(Matryona pyr Aertas)
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[20:15] Upon her return into Achyon walls, Eve's eyes stare into the distance. The pervading sense of anger and bloodlust dwell within her, fusing with the forced energies within her body. She speaks not of it, as she tries to deconstruct it herself willingly in an attempt to derive sustenance and power from it. A greedy outlook, and disposition, towards simply taking all that she can.

Though it is done in anticipation of vengeance, one that Eve has forebodingly moved towards.

She glances askance to Bruno at his words, and his claims of taking control of command. In truth, Eve cares little for such titles, finding them to be too restrictive for one as her- who pursues her goal and aspirations independent of how the waves move.

Albeit in this instance...

"I too will state my claim towards command." Eve declares it, though whether or not it holds gravitas remains to be seen.

The rampant void around her body is suppressed once more, kept internally where it feasts on the parasitic presence within her.
(Eve)
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[20:17] The alchemist's eyes narrow down along Bruno's frame. It was a strange set of circumstances, to be sure - but the Aertas' manipulation was... queer, to say the least.

"Wounded, are you? While I am most sure you wouldn't make such a foolish move as you currently are..."

Surely there was a gist - coherence to this maddening suggestion's train of thought. Rationale and careful political tinkering were often the tools of the willy, powerful and cunning.

But he was not adept of reason.

"...I will wander where I wish to. My liberty is no currency to be exchanged or weighed as an asset."

The rose in his eyes fulgurates with seething abhorrence. The very memory of those who conspired towards his downfall brought a sour, bitter taste to his lips. If only he could land his hands on them, rather than the Grimmore.

"Mine are not toes you can step on."
(Wolfgang)
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[20:18] The march back to Achyon would be one of complete and utter silence. They...had lost. They had lost everything. Their commander. Their troops. Their already frail state was just taken advantage of. Achyon was...obliterated into nothing..
"...."

Lyndis herself would not say a word as she marched back to Achyon. Not toward her sisters. Not toward her comrades. Not toward Bruno...

Nothing

It was as if she was the life and blankness husk she had always been. Battle damaged and torn, the only thing she could think about was her absolute failure to succeed in this battle. Her failure to lead her troops to victory.

It would cause her to weep. To mimic the sobbing of humans as no tears fell down from her Synthetic frame. All she could do? Was sit on the bench in silence. Complete and utter melancholy wrecking her form as she weeped for her long gone brother..

And she couldn't even...say goodbye
"...."

There would be nothing but silence for...what seemed like forever before Lyndis raised herself from the bench. Taking a glance to her fellow soldiers as she stood in front of them.
"...Comrades. Soldiers. You fought all valiantly today. Take the time to recover and heal from your injuries. While Commander Neoni is gone, this does not mean we have lost the war just yet."

"I'll admit. The chances of our victory are fleeting. The entire continent of Esshar hates us. They despise us for our will to bring about a new future for humanity. Worry not. The Coalescence is still on our side. We have not lost the battle just yet. And no matter what, we must continue fighting until our very last breath. Train. Learn. And adapt to each and every threat that we will face! The Moxtli may have won the battle today, but I assure you, they have not won the war."

Lyndis would pause her words for a moment as she looked down at theground. Obviously still distressed about this turn of events. But Achyon still had some tricks up it's sleeve. Loss and melancholy? Would soon turn into strength given enough time. And not just for Lyndis..

But for all of Achyon as well.
"...We must adapt from this fight. Learn from out mistakes. We must crush our enemies in combat in every way shape or form. Do not weep for Commander Neoni's death. Instead use such grief as the strength you need to continue going forth! Neoni would have wanted us to keep going! He would have wanted us to stand up and fight to live again another day. Let us make true of his wishes and make both him and the Coalescence proud."

"For we are all Cogs in the great city that is the Machine. Each and every single one of you is important toward the well-being and greatness of this city. Each and every comrade we lose is just another reason for us to keep fighting. To show our enemies the true strength that is Achyon and the Machine."

Lyndis would take the time to use her melancholy and her grief to motivate her own strength and words. How else would she able to cope with Neoni's death if she didn't? For a Synthetic, she seemed passionate about her words. Something that...might prove to be odd for someone who used to be so lifeless and blank. But..

Lyndis had grown much over the course of the years. Growing, learning, and adapting to her surroundings to become the best person she can be. Not just for Achyon. But for herself as well. For she was the pinnacle of perfection. A Transcended. And she would lead her comrades toward that same perfection. No matter what it may take.
"...Comrades. Soldiers. Friends. Take the time now to grow and learn from our mistakes. Commander Neoni once told me that...no matter how useless I may be. No matter how powerless I may feel. There is always thewillpower to succeed in each in and every one of us. As long as we grow and adapt from such experiences. As long as we learn. We too can learn to prevail even when the odds are so much against us. Heed his words..."

"And let us prevail. Let us break the odds that are against us. And show our enemies the true extent of our power.."

With her speech done. Lyndis would nod her head toward all of her comrades. Turning her gaze toward Bruno and nodding her head in approval toward what he was asking. It would seem she already had knowledge of what was going on. Knowing it was best for them to be held for the time being until the Council's decision was made.
"...Right, Bruno. I would propose they come peacefully. Please arrest them."

There would be no other words said. While Lyndis was not officially deemed the commanding officer of Achyon. She surely had the willpower to make sure that Achyon's mission was completed no matter what.She would try her absolute best from here on out. Not just for herself and Achyon…

But for her brother as well..
"We will be holding a Council meeting sometime soon regarding this turn of events. Until then, you are all dism
(Lyndis)
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[20:19] He was victorious, as he often was, and yet others had been less fortunate. One of those losses even costing them the Commander's life. If Ryker had been in a more favorable state of mind he possibly would have expressed sympathies. But he couldn't, not doped as he was, and with the lack of anger the Docro was strangely enough blank.

He stared forward, unfocused gaze studying nothing. Bruno wanted to hold Wolfgang, Trik and Ixcatzin in a cell. Matryona wanted a report. Eve was tossing her literal hat in the ring for command.

And Ryker? He was tripping.

He snapped to attention to offer Matryona her much required report with a simple wording:

"THINGS ARE FUCKED! The Commander is dead and we've LOST fucking Silverwall!" He exclaimed, his hands opening themselves out as if it were an elaborate show, or a ruse. But it was none of the above, unfortunately. "PERHAPS the one who lost his battle...

Shouldn't try to grab command?" It was a question which hung thickly in the air. Lyndis ordered for their arrest and yet, the young Docro stayed where he was. Dilated jades turn to his uncles.

Waiting on them.
(Ryker pyr Docro)
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[20:19] "Aertas, we all know this is mere subversion to withdraw yourself from the favor you owe the Docro's. You're in no position to make demands like such. Your ill is will and you seek power only for your own benefit."

A drag of his cigarette. "You lot are sycophants to the synthetics and have done little to further Achyon's goal- our Wolfgang here has not once been bested in combat. Can you say the same?"

Another hefty drag, parting his lips to exhale some, Edel's eyes peering to the mortal wound the Aertas brandished. "..shame, really. To think you'll eat your own over a position in power. You should know the number one rule- compromising with your enemy leads us to defeat."
(Edel pyr Docro)
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[20:21] Before any cohesive report can be given, the Synthetic Eve already wishes to command the military. She stares, so such is true? Neoni Faudain perished in battle and already are those below even her rank attempting to command over the entire military.

It's not quite a council decision, nor one to be 'claimed'. If anything, a reigning Lieutenant should scale the ranks but that's not what she wants to discuss right now.

"This is the most inappropriate discussion to be had in the midst of the square. You will lick your wounds and I demand a report of today's outcome."

Greed seemed prevail for whatever reason. The Lieutenant stepped forward. Speech outright ignored. "No one is claiming Commander. None of you." Her voice rose and the Lieutenant made way nearest the Docros. "Tend to your wounds, Sergeant. That is an order. Clear the plaza, now."
(Matryona pyr Aertas)
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[20:22] "You ain't arresting no fucking one."

A booming voice echoes through the ambit, coming from the Don. Annoyance covers his structure, boasting a tired countenance. Yet, his authoritarian voice would never miss a single tone.

Fume escapes from his lips, tainting every bodily movement.

"If you have a plan, you will discuss it with me first. Otherwise, you will not arrest two people protected by my family. Got it?"

His boots ricochet against the cold cobblestone, directed towards the Iron Chambers. Definitely, being interrupted moments before an important meeting agitated the man's aura. Once more, the voice speaks.

"The Council will solve the lack of military leadership and other ideas. Now consign your bullshit to oblivion."
(Luca pyr Docro)
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[20:22] Report. Soon enough, the synthetic moved to the side of Matryona, before continuing on. "Lyndis' defective attempt at command continues to show- Bruno's attitude continues to be as suspicious as ever. There was no withholding from Lyndis to give him total command over the troops, which..."

"Shows a lack of resolve. Bruno either has a plan, or his attitudes have been correctly analyzed by us." Alpha continues on, fingers pointing specifically at the suspicious pair. Of course, Lyndis' lack of hesitance was going to spark some suspicion from the synthetic.

"Bruno. Would you mind explaining exactly what the terms you wanted to discuss were? So far- All we understood now and during the battle were two things." His finger pointed at the Aertas, dripping with the black oil from the multiple wounds that pierced through his figure, blemishing the formerly perfect being.

"You attempted at taking command, in the second there is a void of power, instead of allowing the council to take its way."

"If you so wish to do everything in such an uncommendable way, you should at least make your intent clear instead of doing so."
(Alpha)
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[20:23] Ryker pyr Docro exclaims, "And if you want to TRY YOUR LUCK..... I'M STILL GAME BY THE WAY! I'm sure Wolfgang is as well!"
[20:23] The retreat was made in silence. Silence as heavy as a burial shroud.

How fitting.

The magi, as always, had their own little cadres under them. Mundane men marched in line with walking demigods, taking some small comfort in the shadow of the magi.

"...on march the iv-o-ry stan-dard…"

An anthem. A song of reassurance, of pride. Just to keep morale up.

"uni-ted we will prevail..."

Such irony. A song of triumph, after a defeat. A song of union, after their ranks were sundered by the Commander's death.

The cadre finished the Imperial anthem and returned to despairing silence.

Gareth bid them to return to their duty posts after they entered the gates--heavy magitek guns securing their return. It was a small comfort that for now, at least, Achyon was still strong enough to repel a direct siege. But writing was cast on the walls. A noose tightened around the colony's throat. With Silverwall definitively controlled by the enemy, they had a straight shot to deploy towards the city itself.

This was a bad situation.

This was an intolerable situation.

This was a /wrong/ situation.

They just wanted to help. To save the continent, to save the world and all mankind! Why couldn't the SAVAGES see that? Why did they fight and kick and scream every step of the way like petulant children?

Thoughts, thoughts, thoughts. Roiling and curling in his head.

The veil was pulled back, and memories slipped out. Thoughts and dreams of crushing war and grinding clockworks, slick with blood and oil. Cruelty and barbarity beyond the Empire's palate. And a few coldly said words.

'We need to go further. We need to be better for the trials ahead.'

It passed quickly. The memories stopped flowing, but the ones that had come lingered. They inspired. They motivated.

Gareth curled his fist as he fell in before Lyndis, everthe prim and proper soldier.

And rage settled over his heart.
(Gareth Vasern)
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[20:25] Nathaniel glares, eyes hardened by loss from he news he'd received from the battlefront. For the first time in his life, he had finally lost something he cared about, and he felt this.. alien, disgusting sensation, this void that formed and grew deeper as he listened.

He did not want to believe what he had learned, what he was hearing, and from what he could garner by what he saw before him, a ping of hatred welled up, trying to fill the void that was forming.

Trying, but not succeeding.

Immediately, allies were ordered into cells, and claims towards command were made. It digusted him.

"The Council will be making the decisions, not any of you."

Nathaniel was relieved that his division Lieutenant backed his belief up, but it wouldn't be enough, he knew that some of them would be entirely unreasonable.

"Lyndis, you are showing abnormal patterns right now. I will back both Councilman Docro and anyattempts to grand-stand now after the Council has spoke, I will not stand for any longer. And I am certain any sound minded will agree with my sentiment."
(Nathaniel Deckard)
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[20:27] There was a hint of confusion in Lyndis's gaze as she briefly realized something. Why...did she suddenly give command to Bruno almost on a whim? It was as if...her programming was almost compelling her to do so. Something...wasn't right here. Perhaps Alpha's suspicions had some air of accuracy to them. Maybe it wasn't a lack of resolve she had but..

The fact that she felt as if she needed to heed his words. That it was impossible for her not too. How could this have happened so swiftly? Was...there something wrong with her programming? Perhaps she was...

Altered?
"...There is no need fot fighting within our ranks. We've lost enough as is. The Council will make the decision of who is the commander. Not any one of us. Surely you all can respect Neoni's legacy a little more than that."

"And that means you as well, Bruno."

She would cross her arms and slightly nod her head to Nathaniel's statement. Something...was definitely not right with her. It was as if she was programmed to heed Bruno's beckon and call...
"....Let's...calm down. Sort things out. Perhaps I was...wrong in my assumptions and calculations. I must apologize today has been a..."

"Long day."
(Lyndis)
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[20:28] The silhouette of Arken Mychanimus stood near the second Docro business' stall. He placed his hands into the long, brown jacket of his civilian uniform, staring in disbelief at the news he had heard once, then heard confirmed by the soldiers that had fought.

He hadn't attended. Because he believed it to be a waste, something that might have caused Moxtli to decide to execute Nekra and the others that had been captured. However. The only reason that he had even been something valuable in the first place was because of his position within Achyon. The only thing that made him powerful was his faith in the Empire's intelligence and leadership.

He had failed. His absolute blind faith in his comrades had resulted in their failure. Rather than supporting them, he had left them to support themselves, in order to support the ones that were trapped within Moxtli's prisons.

The future he knew exist, the worst variant that he had been afraid of, had come to pass like the intake and exhale of breath. Things had become ten times worse. His.. Mental pause on his progress, his willingness to stifle himself 'for the greater good', had resulted in things only turning for the worst.

Arken.. Knew of the potential that Lyndis spoke of. He knew what it was to tap into the willpower and potential dormant within himself.

But he needed time. He absolutely needed time. He had been living on borrowed time for the past six months. Was there anything he was capable of so late into the proceedings in order to stop any of what he felt was to come? His mind had already skipped to the ending. Where everyone captured was dead. Where their walls fell. Where everyone he saw before him, including himself was on the run from the continent.

"... Anyone who is wounded and needs care may go to the Wellness Clinic northeast of here."
Is all he spoke. Calmly turning and pacing from the square.
(Arken Mychanimus)
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[20:28] Nathaniel Deckard says, "Lyndis. I will run maintenance for you in the Technomancer's hall shortly."
[20:28] Nathaniel Deckard says, "I've noticed this change in you more acutely as of late."
[20:28] Glade bled, the ice that had pierced her long having melted. Eyes watched silently, impassively over the crowd. Things felt meaningless for a long moment as she considered her own thoughts.

Even Bruno's claim was mostly regarded with an emotionless glare. Despite her loss, Glade felt as clear-headed as she ever had in her life. Things felt finally, truly open.

"This is not the time, or the place, for such claims of any kind." Her gun was held in the right hand, and though she was injured, the oppressive gravitic aura never wavered. "From any of you. We fight for territory, we lose, and you prepare to battle one another."

Her gaze fell upon the Docro's as well, staring at those so eager and ready to spill blood. "If this is the result of a lost battle, then we should throw the gates open now."
(Glade)
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[20:29] Noraa sits as silently as he had, watching how things go.
(Noraa)
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[20:29] Gareth Vasern says, "...humbly, Lieutenant, you've been--you've been /weird/ for a while. Let the technomancers examine you--just as we let medics work us over..."
[20:29] Nathaniel Deckard whispers something.
[20:29] Nathaniel Deckard whispers something.
[20:29] Nathaniel Deckard whispers something.
[20:30] Ryker pyr Docro exclaims, "SHE FUCKING SLAPPED ME, TOO!"
[20:30] Lyndis asks, "...Wierd?"
[20:30] Lyndis says, "....Perh-"
[20:30] Lyndis says, "...I did...not slap you that...hard."
[20:30] Ryker pyr Docro says, "Broke my fucking JA- just kidding. "
[20:30] Ryker pyr Docro exclaims, "I can't be put down!"
[20:30] Lyndis says, "...This is no time for jokers, Ryker."
[20:30] Gareth Vasern whispers something.
[20:31] Ryker pyr Docro whispers something.
[20:31] Words were directed towards Ryker in a manner as swift as his own agitation amidst it all.

"My claim of command on the battlefield was made according regulations. The moment we stepped into Achyon, they were relinquished." He explained both for Ryker and Eve's sake at once.

"As I've said before, the Council will be the one to appoint a new Commander. It is clear they must also face the demands of the Moxtli."

A glance is given to Edel.

"Speak not of Achyon's militaristic future, citizen. If you have any qualms against those who compromise with the enemy I suggest you look upon those who lay with them first."

Bruno was not usually this sharp and outspoken, though the lack of an arm and a slow descent of his mind had effects he could not predict.

"As it stands, Lieutenant Lyndis, Mychanimus, and Aertas all hold the same rank, and thus, have equal parts in the chain of command."

His attention shifted to Alpha and an explanation as clear as what a Synthetic needed was given. For him. And for others.

"I took matter in my own hands knowing Lyndis' tendency to throw herself at the enemy in a helpless, defective attempt to save another. The same was done with Eve previously. A call for retreat was required. A ceasefire was our best hope for utter defeat to be avoided. As I've stated then, and now:

The Council will decide."

He did demand a temporary shift in power only on the battlefield, after all. He was not foolish enough to try and force his way up; even if he'd grown more bold from those incessant whispers in his mind.

"My suggestion for your temporary arrest, Wolfgang, was merely to appease the tribes. Whether or not the Council deems it necessary to offer you away I will share my thoughts with you if you so desire."

.. He looked down to his arm, then towards his sister.

"... Another time."
(Bruno pyr Aertas)
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[20:32] Alfredo exclaims, "Good evening!"
[20:32] Alpha was the only one to give her a report on the matter. Lyndis is displaying clear strange behaviors and Bruno was simply an occultist.

"Deckard, run maintenance on Sergeant Eve, too. These immediate attempts to fill a void just after battle leads me to believe her machinery was tampered with during her time in Osrona."

Sudden attempts to arrest a Councilman and someone beyond the control of the military. "No one is being arrested. Mend your wounds and leave the matter to the council."

"An occultist cannot lead a military, Bruno."

Even now he demonstrates that fact clearly. His judgement so impaired that any means of power distorts it. The plaza, for political terms, was no place of discussion of sensitive matters, especially by a man with no rank.

"Disregard anything Sergeant Aertas says. We don't appease or bend to savages."
(Matryona pyr Aertas)
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[20:33] Lyndis says, "...I would like to request a diagnosis on my own systems as well."
[20:33] Nathaniel Deckard whispers something.
[20:34] Lyndis says, "I...can't help but believe there is...an anamoly within my database."
[20:34] "Affirmative. I rescind my claim."

When Bruno clears his reasoning up, Eve 'rescinds' hers. Her eyes stare at Bruno's for an extended period of time, slightly narrowing into a glare. Then nothing else is said. Instead, she pivots on a foot to follow and trail after Nathaniel.

"I will accompany you as you analyze Lyndis for her maintenance." Eve finds herself lost in bloodlust, implanted in her. Then she pauses, looking over at Matryona as if she had gone mad. "Iris and Locke had already ran checks on me. You may attempt to do so under their supervision if you desire."

Nothing else has been said beyond that, and she awaits Nathaniel to continue.
(Eve)
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[20:34] Nathaniel Deckard whispers something.
[20:34] Nathaniel Deckard whispers something.
[20:34] Bruno pyr Aertas says, "I would not be as bold as to suggest myself for the position of Commander, sister. There are many above me."
[20:35] Matryona pyr Aertas says, "There are far many above you."
[20:35] Bruno pyr Aertas says, "Yes. I have just said the same. There is no need to repeat it; it is pointless."
[20:36] Gareth Vasern whispers something.
[20:37] Ryker's hand swept down against Gareth's shoulder hard and fast. It landed like a ton of bricks before the Docro grinned, sharp canines revealing themselves near instantly.

"GOOD! I'm glad we got this ALL CLEARED UP!" He said, before his voice once more dropped to a hushed whisper to regard Gareth.
(Ryker pyr Docro)
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[20:37] Ryker pyr Docro whispers something.
[20:38] The Artifex looked between the two synthetics and beckoned them. "Come, I will see to it you are running as you should be. And going forwards, I will be bringing my findings to the Council.", he says as he glares momentarily at Bruno.

He couldn't look more disgusted than he did. Clearly he had come to some conclusion from learned information.

"Lieutenant.", Deckard says to Matryona, pausing in his steps for a second, "Mania has something of important to share with you as soon as possible."

Moving now, with the synthetics in tow, Nathaniel prepared to find the worst.
(Nathaniel Deckard)
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[20:38] Ryker pyr Docro whispers something.
[20:38] Wolfgang stands completely idle - impassive. A frozen tendril of scourge and derision. He could appreciate avarice, regardless of how much i was detrimental to him when bore by another hand.

Spectacles are made to entertain, after all.

"They will not be satisfied with anything less than my head, sergeant."

And then the remainder of Achyon's. But Wolfgang did not seek to establish a case of debate or even disputation in his own favor - bettering his standing was not at all in his interests. If one sought to struck? Let them.

"Then you will have your peace. Mayhap. But as a certain someone said...

I'm game."

A bizarre, macabrely maladaptive statement, to say the least. Was he self-destructive or doltish beyond redemption? Perhaps the problem laid in an even deeper point of contention.

"Regardless - you all do as youwill. I'm here, and not likely going anywhere."
(Wolfgang)
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[20:38] His heart dropped, he couldn't deal with the news that Lyndis just brought. He didn't know what to know with this news, it felt like his world was crash and burning in lightning speed. He clinched his fists tightly, he began to shed couple tears then he stopped. First Peros and now Neoni, what was the military suppose to do without his leadership. He gulped, he looked around the square in disappointment. He wished he could've been there and fought alongside his fellow soldiers but he just wasn't ready yet.

"I-I.." He stumbled over his words, this was too much to take in. First Peros death and three soldiers captured back to back then the Commander death. What was they really suppose to do right now, he didn't have a answer for once. He kissed his teeth, he couldn't look in anybody face right now. He had to get his mind off this topic or he was going to lose it. He rose his head up and looked at the sky then lowered his head back to its original position. He hoped Neoni reached the man above, he hated everything that the man above put them through, he just kept giving them problems back to back with no pause whatsoever. He wondered if the Osronans prayed to the Primordials and wished this pain on them. He inhaled deeply, his eyes began to tear up again. He couldn't hold it in, he couldn't hide it either.

A man is never suppose to let his enemies see him cry but he couldn't do anything about it, this was really horrible. He swore vengeance on their enemies until all of them die. He couldn't bother listening to the ongoing conversation happening right in front of him. His hearing kept going in and out, obviously focused on the recent news about their leader death. He moved his hand to his cheek slowly to wipe the dried up tear off his cheek.

He coughed slightly, he had to sit down and pick himself back up. He felt it wasn't worth to be fighting this war anymore but he knowhis fallen comrades wouldn't want him to give him. They would want him to continue their fight against their enemies. He looked around and slowly walked to the bench then took a seat on it. He lowered his body position like he was in a fetal position, he placed his head in his hands. He needed a moment to himself.

"They'll pay" He mumbled to himself.
(Mako Titanborn)
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[20:39] Bruno pyr Aertas says, "..."
[20:40] Bruno pyr Aertas whispers to Wolfgang: I believe the Moxtli would be unable to stick blame upon us were they to know we intended to meet their demand and were met with our prisoners breaking out and escaping to a location unknown by us.
[20:40] Bruno pyr Aertas whispers to Wolfgang: Take it as you will.
[20:40] Matryona sighs lightly. She hadn't even the time to process the death of Neoni before sudden powergrabs occurred. Her gaze shifted to Alpha then her brother. "Thank you for the report, Alpha."

"For now, everyone will mend their wounds and reflect on today's battle and failure. Senseless infighting is what they desire. Bruno, when did you listen to what writhing animals request? And Wolfgang of all people? You're mad."

She didn't even entertain the idea.
(Matryona pyr Aertas)
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[20:40] Bruno pyr Aertas whispers to Wolfgang: I am no fool; lies are a tool.
[20:40] Wolfgang whispers to Bruno pyr Aertas: I am aware you do not intend on backstabbing me, Aertas!
[20:40] Wolfgang whispers to Bruno pyr Aertas: The problem is...
[20:40] "The question remains." Alpha intended on pressing the subject more than anything. His hand continued to point at Bruno, visors settled as the black ichor of the prototype continued.

"How?"

"You have just said- She has a tendency to get into battle, and what you said goes exactly against it; You jumped into the position of trying to negotiate with them, and said you would negotiate a ceasefire while their demands are known and understood."

"You robbed a military of command the very moment Neoni fell."

"How? How did she suddenly go against what you just claimed she'd do?" Alpha was not giving this up. Not yet. He knew that the programming of other synthetics was frailer than his, less intensive on the security, with plenty of backdoors to be exploited.

"She gave her explanation. Calculations are deterministic. They do not accept randomness. Either Lyndis is defective..."

"... Or the occultist has finally allowed the energy to seep into his brain."
(Alpha)
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[20:40] Matryona pyr Aertas says, "And who is Mania..."
[20:40] Wolfgang whispers to Bruno pyr Aertas: ...I'm full of whim, you know?
[20:40] Wolfgang asks, "Now. You are wounded - go patch it up, hm?"
[20:40] Ryker pyr Docro exclaims, "I FUCKING LOVE MANIA!"
[20:40] Ryker pyr Docro says, ".... I mean proverbially."
[20:40] Ryker pyr Docro says, "Not literally."
[20:41] Matryona pyr Aertas says, "Right... That still doesn't tell me who she is or what she wants to tell me."
[20:41] Ryker pyr Docro says, "She's an ally! She gives me soothreed."
[20:42] Matryona pyr Aertas says, "I see."
[20:43] Bruno gives a small nod towards his sister before a glance is given towards Alpha. A long, momentary thought.

"I cannot share such information with you. Everything was authorized."

A reply that likely would give Alpha little information, yet just enough for him to know that something made Lyndis change. A correction to her faulty programming.

His gaze shifted towards Amelia.

Half his left arm missing was probably enough for her to take action.
(Bruno pyr Aertas)
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[20:43] Bruno pyr Aertas whispers to Wolfgang: It would be best if you knew to stay put.
[20:43] Bruno pyr Aertas whispers to Wolfgang: Ryker is the same.
[20:44] Gareth didn't flinch at Ryker's bone-shattered shoulderpat. The wonderful benefits of mana! And magiteknically reinforced bluesteel armor. But mostly mana. As ever and as always, he speaks in a low, steady tone: as ever and always, the perfect upright soldier. Except for losing a fight, but we can worry about that later.

He takes a half-step away from the rosy Docro--it isn't polite to shout next to to someone. Clearing his throat with a fist to his mouth, he raises his voice to give his own address to the squabbling. Wisdom comes oft' from the mouths of babes, goes the saying. Hopefully it proves true.

"Will we get anywhere from fighting like this in the square? From showing division? All of these are conversations for private, to occur behind closed doors with those whom are cleared to hear them. As our Intelligencers are happy to remind us, loose lips sink airships. We all need to split up, convalesce, an' plan our actions slowly an' steadily. Just like the Empire is known for."
(Gareth Vasern)
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[20:44] Wolfgang whispers to Bruno pyr Aertas: Hm. For CONSIDERATION's sake, I will give thought to your stratagem.
[20:44] Bruno pyr Aertas whispers to Wolfgang: Only if the council agrees with it.
[20:45] Alpha says, "POTENTIAL. DEFECTING. IS. NOT. PRIVATE."
[20:45] Bruno pyr Aertas says, "There was no defecting at hand."
[20:46] Gareth Vasern says, "It is when the citizens have to hear it an' fear their own army can't protect them, comrade."
[20:46] Wolfgang says, "All is well, LADS AND LASSES. Let it simmer."
[20:46] A letter reaches the white-haired Don. Subsequently, his eyes scan the content... and consequently morphing his face. Eyebrows decline, facial veins dilate - undulating with blood.

Luca's usually unemotional... but after reading the message? The Godfather reeks of rage.

Rotating, instead of completing the path to the Iron Chambers, his figure reaches Bruno, shoving Wolfgang out of the way for a single moment.

The towering boss advents, adjacent to the Aertas. An oppressive digit ascends, pointed towards Bruno's chin, whilst the authoritarian voice once more redoubles through the ambit.

"You call my brother citizen again and I'll make sure to tie your lips with your shoe laces." smoke accompanies every word, clearly reaching the opposing man's face. "And I don't like passive-aggressive claims about my men, too. So quit with this ludicrous beef before I start the 'active-aggressive' orders, will you?"

His pupils oscillate with anger, staring, scrutinizing. If the eyes are pools to one's soul, Luca's should certainly be deranged at the moment.

"Hope you understand." he doesn't even care about listening to any replies, after all, he's late to the meeting. After tossing his whitish, used cigarette away, the Don leaves.
(Luca pyr Docro)
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[20:46] Bruno pyr Aertas whispers to Wolfgang: Do inform the Docro of enough for them to understand my position.
[20:46] Wolfgang cants his head positively towards the sergeant, before strutting on. He seems... humored.
(Wolfgang)
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[20:48] Bruno is brought face-to-face with Luca for a moment, watching as anger flows and swirls about his eyes. He truly had painted himself as a horrible person, though it was to be expected. Extravagant ideas and bold actions often led to unpredictable futures.

Nothing needed to be said to the man, however. Any answer Bruno had would likely leave him even more angry. This was no option.
(Bruno pyr Aertas)
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[20:48] Noraa whispers something.
[20:49] Bruno wouldn't share vital information on Lyndis' condition. That alone is suspicious when it could possibly save the Synthetic from some strange self-destruction and defective qualities.

"Knowledge of the condition of a Synthetic is imperative. Withholding such puts Lieutenant Lyndis at risk of being dismantled and recycled, Bruno." Killed, in short. "If you care at all then you'd see to it that she's fixed and improved. Tend to your lack of arm."

Luckily, doctor-Councilwoman Amelia made an appearance. She couldn't bring herself to offer her brother sympathy.
(Matryona pyr Aertas)
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[20:51] The young Docro merely watches, as his Uncle's scorn and anger became directed not at him for his drug use, but at Bruno calling Edel a citizen. The mental image of one Luca pyr Docro tying someone's lips closed with his shoe laces brought about a laugh from Ryker.

It was too funny not to laugh, even after everything they'd lost. Mercedes captured, Neoni lost. They were fraying at the edges. But what could he earnestly do about it?
(Ryker pyr Docro)
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[20:51] Ryker pyr Docro says, "HAHAHAHAHAHA! Oh."
[20:52] Perhaps the impending raid, regardless of result, was enough to bring the eldest Aertas to a standstill of exhaustion. Darkened bags, a slowly slouching back, and a puff in each breath; she'd simply through into a scene she'd rather not attend to if possible.

It was simply a supposed to be a post-raid meeting, yet sidetracks would be sidetracks.

"What happened?" she asks, it becoming her catchphrase at this point. Her voice was course as she takes another step forward.

It was clear she was more than physically tired at this point.

Eyeing the injury, she'd merely make it the only thing to focus on. After all, if she decided to address everything else, she might just faint. With a beckoned hand, she motions for Bruno to follow. "Let's address that," she mentions before turning to the Don with tired eyes. "Sorry, can you inform the council I will arrive a bit late," she requests. An injury was an injury for her.
(Amelia Locke pyr Aertas)