Agava - Foresight

[19:55] {NARRATION} It was the beginning of a dark windy night in Levenguard, the flickering of torchlight and the backdrop of the ancient forests atop the cliffside putting the small settlement to scale in this large world.

Waiting upon the stone carved steps upon the edge of the town awaited a bespectacled woman of Valmasian decent, impatiently tapping her foot as if expecting something or someone!

“Geeze, I heard rumors there was a group going to go chart some old ruins..” They mutter to themselves, their drab robes and brown hood hinting at locks of blond hair under all that fabric.

“I wonder if they will set out today?”

Within her hands resided a notebook of sorts, along with varying inks of a multitude of colours on her side!

[20:00] The group was finally prepared to set off, whatever supplies they may need gathered. Since she didn't need food or water herself she opted to carry some of what the others may need. A way to even their collective carrying weights.

They make their way down the steps to the docks, a soft breeze stirring the Spirit's hair. She spies the woman tapping impatiently, and manages to catch her words on the wind.

She was less visible than the others in the dark she speaks.

"Yes.. we will be setting out today. Apologies for the wait ma'am."

A watchful eye notes the notebook and inks, an artist?


(Elayna)
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[20:08] Organized and calculating, Oyl treks a few meters behind the group trying to pick up the pace as the cliffside winds blow his silky locks every which way. His right arm clutched a notebook of his own, plumes and ink vials were wedged into desginated slots on what appeared to be a cargo-like book cover. His left hand remained affixed to his bang, holding it out the way of his eyes as he tried to catch up with Elayna and Agava.

"Ah, p-please forgive my poor punctuality. Had to ensure I had brought everything!"

He smiles and nods to his party and to the oman, her glasses looking a bit eerie as the rising moon reflected light off the surface. He reaffirms his grip on his notebook before motioning down to his stuffed satchel, quickly glancing over his supplies as he had surely done at least twice prior to setting off.

Within his bag would be some first aid supplies, rations, and other items that he determined could be of use on the trip. He blinks at the Valmasian-looking woman with a friendly expression, ready to head off with Elayna's lead.
(Oyl)
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[20:13] The dryad stepped lightly right behind Oyl and Elayna, her eyes scanning their surrounding just while scaling the terrain towards the docks. She didn't carry anything with her as her connection with nature left her nourished through their journey up till their destination.

Agava was the only one who didn't shed a word to the stranger they met, observing them curiously while he companions dealt with the talking, after all the dryad didn't remain along the most vocal people. She preferred observing the scenes and only add her own mind whenever it was necessary.
(Agava)
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[20:28] {NARRATION} “M’Names Robin! Robin Maley! And IM a cartographer! You have NO idea how long I have been waiting for you fine specimens to set out! Almost a solid YEAR!” she exclaims- followed by a sigh.

“But thats enough of that. I got a boat if you are willing to provide the protection! In return Ill make sure this whole region is logged! I heard the place was a massive city!”

Slapping the wood of the boat she climbs in clearly not waiting for anyone at all! Ready to set sail at a moments notice!

How long was she waiting here exactly?

With the looming clouds in the sky and the moonlight waning the trip will have to be swift and precise if they want to sail the seas to the ruins in this night.
[20:29] {NARRATION} “Good! You should be!” They exclaim as they turn around, the soles of her boots clattering down on the planks and towards a small schooner.

[20:32] She smiles at the woman's scholarly nature, though she was a bit rude for the final comment she had made. They knew they weren't leaving until now... why didn't she?

"Right.. sounds good to me. And yes.. Gaiar was once something of an empire of sorts I hear. Even if... depraved in nature."

As one would expect from a Demon empire.

She strolls to the boat, and climbs inside after a glance to the others. Eyes already alert for trouble.

"Do you need me to make some light Robin? I'm Elayna by the way."
(Elayna)
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[20:39] He clutches his notebook to his chest as pink irises flicker in the nearby torchlight. Oyl still maintains his smile, though he suspects that this proclaimed 'cartographer' might be a bit off her rocker seeing as she claimed to have been waiting an entire year. Nevertheless, he greets the woman and tries to play along.

"It is a pleasure, Miss Maley. I'm Oyl. Apologies again for keeping you."

With that he boards the vessel, looking about the ship anxiously as he had only ever traveled within the sea and not over it. As Oyl takes his seat he flips his notebook open and begins making logs of his own, being sure to keep his agreement with Thera.

"A massive city.." he murmurs as he scribbles along.
"There's no telling what- or who could be waiting there. But any discoveries we make will be imformative nonetheless. So I'm excited."
He then finishes up what he was writing and closes the notepad for now, looking to Elayna and Robin the cartographer in anticipation to set sail.
(Oyl)
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[20:45] The dryad rustled quietly while observing the Cartographer, her eyes showing a hint of distress and doubt hearing how the woman spoke. Upon hearing the others introduce themselves the dryad simply nodded faintly to their companion before replying rather quietly. "Names Agava…" without anything to add as if not seeing a purpose on keeping the charade especially with someone she clearly didn't trust.

She came along to help Elayna and that what was important to her, with this she slowly boarded their vessel of choice, deciding to root her feet into one of the boards to which she stared with disgust, clearly not being too fond of anything made out of wood.
(Agava)
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[21:02] {NARRATION} “Got a perfectly good light up ‘N the sky- no need, greetings to you all~ Such a strange bunch for this expedition. Guess them all walks and types on these lands! But without further ado! Lets go!”

Making sure everyone was aboard, the Five-eleven woman turns around and swiftly tugs on the rigging of the boat! The massive sails unfurling and gently pulling the boat off into the darkness of the night!

There was nothing exceptional about the boat that was carrying them. Barrels of fresh water, dried fruits and a few full of leather skin maps charting the surrounding oceans of Agartha! Everything a sailing enthusiast would need to get about in this crazy magical land.

There wasn't much talking from Robin for the duration of the trip as the eccentric wayfarer captained the small boat. The greenery of the forests on the shore ever fading as more and more devastated trees come into view as time passed on, the lands still recovering from the wars and beasts that used to roam the areas inland.

And when the time finally came a bell was rang! Alerting the group of their arivval to a dalapitated dock. Old fishing huts lining the bay.

“Were here~” Robin chimes out, dinging the bell again!


“Never bothered getting out after this- saw little red demons skittering around. Not something a regular old human like me can handle~” she coos as she adjusts her circular spectacles.

“But now with you three, I can finally chart these ruins! Isnt that EXCITING?! E’w knows what could be about further in?” they say as they moore the boat to the rotting dock- the looming overgrowth slowly taking over the small fishing port as a dread silence persists in the air.
[21:10] The trip itself was quiet other than conversation amongst the small group. Her eyes watch the devastated landscape with sorrow, such an empire it was.. that it caused this damage that persists even now in its destruction.

The bell rang and the spirit winced, hopefully the place full of likely supernatural things didn't possess supernatural hearing. Though she didn't trust her luck on that.

"Little red Demons..?"

She was curious as to if they were literal small demons or something else that the woman didn't have a proper name for. Her mind was open to all possibilities.

As the boat is moored she speaks once more the taint of the land seeping around them. A miasma of dread.

"Yes.. exciting.. just.. stay in the center of the three of us yes? Something akin to a triangle formation should do nicely."

The Spirit, steps from the boat onto the rotting dock careful to watch her step as she does so. Her eyes and ears watchful for signs of danger, though she avoids summoning her Holy magic as of yet. That would be sure to attract even more attention than they likely had already.

"We should.. check this area first. Make sure the boat will be as safe as possible."
(Elayna)
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[21:15] Oyl feels mildly uneasy as the boat pulls away from its spot to begin sailing in direction of the ruin. Riding in the vessel felt a bit unnatural at first, but Oyl would attempt to adapt by comparing the ride to that of a whale. Though, the boat appeared to be at the mercy of the waves rather than the other way around. He tries to keep his heart rate low as he envsions himself on the underbelly or back of a large orca. It would likely be the only way to avoid the sea sickness that came with Robin's unpredictable steering.

As the light of the docks fade into the distance, Oyl catches a glimpse of the more unusual variety of flora as they draw nearer to their destination. The vessel soon comes to a slow as the bell is sounded. Trying to compose himself, Oyl slowly rises from his seat and peeks out, eyeing the ruined huts where people had presumably fished. It almost looked sad to see such a place abandoned despite clear evidence that inhabitants once thrived here.

Helistens of the rumors of 'little red Demons', but dismisses the threat almost instantly. A non-magi like Cartographer Robin would likely exaggerate the gravity of the situation, leaving Oyl to believe that the shipwoman likely referred to Lesser Demons or Megas. Nothing the party couldn't handle.

"Take comfort knowing that you're under the protection of the best Magi in the land. Don't worry, we'll make sure everything checks out."
He tries to reassure himself and Miss Maley as he steps out onto the decrepit wooden dock. It creaks beneath his armored feet as he steps carefully closer and closer to the shoreline to examine the area. He tries to stay too far from the group, but Oyl was anxious to begin documenting everything he could see in the area.
(Oyl)
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[21:20] The dryad remained still during the voyage through the waters, not liking the idea of being locked in one place while depths surrounded the group, though she didn't protest and simply waited for them to reach the land, disembarking within matter of seconds when they reached the shore, allowing her hair to rustle loudly as she stomped onto the sand and soon later soil.

Words of their Cartographer didn't leave the dryad too thrilled as she listened to their remarks of demons that roamed the area, giving Agava a reason to slowly grow multiple bulb like pores on her arms just as she addressed the others.

"If we are dealing with demons... self will be preparing measures to fight them... till then self will follow your lead... though doubtfully will speak much..." the nature bound being spoke before closing her eyes as she walked closer to Oyl and Elayna.
(Agava)
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[21:35] {NARRATION} A grin curls up from the woman's lips from under the hood as she is offered the protection of the magi, the own clattering of her feet on the rotting wood speeding up her pace on the docks as the cartographer darts to the shore.

“Yeah yeah! Strange how it is that they are still around. Thought those Jiangs came up and wiped them out years ago!” they exclaim as they grasp onto their notebook tightly, allowing the moonlight to backdrop her shadow to the densely packed forrest.

Slowly as the group would approach the chirping and croaking of insects and frogs alike return to the night once more, the sound of nature filling one's ears. But why had it stopped in the first place?

One would have to wonder.

“From an old map I got of the layout of th’ city, there was two huge towers and a fortress at the heart. Why not head that way and see if we can find a vantage point from there yeah? I mean there's gotta be some finds somewhere past these woods!” Robin suggests as she glances back to the woods, her head tilting under the robe.

“Strange this place be huh? Thought the war might’ve y’know- cleared it out more?”

[21:38] The return of the usual night time noises gave the Spirit cause for concern.

She listens to what the cartographer says both about the Huangzhouans and the towers... Hm.

"Unless something is here to keep attracting them... or something of the sort at least.

As for the towers... yes.. let's see what we can find there. If nothing of note, the fortress is likely the next stop."

She offers her compatriots a glance asking for opinions or other options. Afterwards she would continue to move, onto whatever destination they chose, senses open to everything around her.
(Elayna)
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[21:40] {NARRATION} (feel free to be creative from this point onward! This event is your oyster! Check things out! Be curious!)
[21:44] Oyl opens his notebook, and readily begins sketching the area. It's difficult to see much through the trees and such, but after illustrating the fishing huts he listens in to his guide, who spoke of a fortress and two towers near the center of the city.

He himself glances to the woods, ready to investigate the buildings beyond. However, his eye is drawn to one of the huts near the shore. He steps a bit closer, only a couple feet from the group.

The structure was interesting, and there could possibly be interesting artifacts of note nearby. Oyl points his writing plume towards the thing, while turning his head back to the party.

"I'll be ready in just a moment! I'd like to take a look around these huts for a moment. Could be supplies or other interesting relics to take back, yes?"
(Oyl)
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[21:50] The woods appeared inviting, especially seeing that Agava was attuned with nature thanks to her blessing, it was something far away from her Grove but still part of Nature, giving the Dryad a chance to prove herself outside of her comfortable area.

"Self can attempt to communicate with the woods see if anything of interest or a threat lurks within it... as long as the nature here is not lost to the Occult Madness..." the dryad explained briefly only to fall silent as she landed on her knees and began to root into the ground, attempting to tap into the nearby trees and plants as if hoping to attune to them and see if they would share anything with her.
(Agava)
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[21:54] {NARRATION} (Agava if you may, please roll /rdm 1 20 for your check for the forrests.)
[22:12] {NARRATION} “Attracting them huh.. Wonder what could possibly do that?” Robin mutters to herself as she waits patiently by the spirit, watching as Oyl heads off to check the structures.

The building Oyl approaches appears to be as dialpitated as any other of the huts around them- this one more intact than the others, as where the other roofs have caved in partially, this one remained relatively sound- at least from the outside looks of things.

AS they would get closer one would notice the door had have been bashed off its hinges, the frame bulging outwards as if something pried itself inside- something far larger than a normal human~

Within the hut was nothing short of a disaster- broken chairs, flipped tables and fishing equipment strewn about as if someone was in a hurry fast. Below Oyls feet if they were to step in, they would notice the floorboards where cracked from the weight of something immense- something that should not belong. Other than that there was no signs of anything else aside from the daily catches numbers pinned upon a board.

While the Sirenian was off exploring the hut, Agava would discover things of her own…

Off into the tree line the whispering of the plants was clouded by a silent murmer, an ever so fading presence ever fleeting from the edge of the nature attuned dryads senses. One after another a small flicker of flame would cease to be with naught but a gust of wind to be heard of from the pier.

(HIGH ROLL) Moving away silently within the cover of the dense undercover- a large being can be felt moving deeper into the woods, crushing all life beneath its form into fragments.

“Anything interesting?” Robins voice would pierce the silence?

“Not that I dont like standing around here- but I can't do much cartography from ere eh?” the impatient non-magi complains.

[22:16] As the others would go about checking the area she stayed closer to the non-magi, ready to move whatever direction she may be needed in.

Staff in hand and prepared to rain lightning she awaits a response from the other... just for extra senses...

The Spiritmancer opens what would be called her third eye. A brief gaze into the overlap of the Spirit Realm into their own. To others around her she would become slightly more transparent and slightly less solid than she was. Though she was still there.

"Anything?"

She asks, peering into the realm beyond.
(Elayna)
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[22:19] Agava rustled loudly with her expression twisting in disgust as the nature helped her discover something that did leave her distressed, she exhaled loudly before deciding to reply.

"Something large is moving... hostile... destroys everything that is alive … we must prepare... " the dryad said while uprooting herself from the soil, her body groaning and snapping loudly as her tendril limbs began to tangle and form back into her hands and feet just as she looked towards Elayna, Oyl and their Cartographer.

"Beware if we move through woods... we will have to face it..."
(Agava)
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[22:22] Oyl peers around the single hut, his jaw slightly agape as he would behold what appeared to be a rather messy scene. If war had taken place on the shores, then the status of the hut would be entirely justified. However...there appeared to be signs of a struggle. The floor lining the hut looked to be crushed from heavy weight.

The koi begins to feel a bit uneasy. Deciding that none of the supplies within the hut were worth taking, he exits the hut and quickly catches back up to the group looking to Robin, Agava, and Elayna with a bit of worry in his eyes.

"I think I've seen enough of that. Ready when you are." he says to them.
His head then turns to where Agava had planted herself, hoping that the Dryad would be able to pick up any bad juju from the surrounding flora.

As the group recieves a response from Agava, Oyl wouldn't help but to feel a bit more wary. The Dryad's intuition was something to take seriously, and so the Siren grabs ahold of his blade in preparation.

"We should tread very carefully. If there really is something here...then we'd best be on our guard. Now then..onto the heart of the ruins, yes?"
(Oyl)
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[22:25] Elayna says, "Yes... I think that would be best.. Robin. Stay close."
[22:30] {NARRATION} The spirit realm was trembling in lost life within this area as Elayna opened up her third eye. Warriors clad in old armors roam around the pitch blackness, some recogniseable as those from Huang while others were more demonic in nature- it was clear these shores were fire with loss- but nothing out of the ordinary could be sensed.

“Righty- uh. Im right useless at fighting, can barely hold ov a drunk fae.” Robin would chip in as she grasps onto her book even tighter.

“Just uh- lemi know if you are doing something strange. You magic types are unpredictable at times.” she nods as they start to head off to where the towers and fortress should be on her old map.

[22:35] She peered into the beyond her eyes filling with tears, even if the others couldn't exactly see what she was... so much death...

Her eyes drifted to the more demonic soldiers.. wondering if they were human at one point or had always been something... else. Though no immediate threats where present... she wanted to reach out to ease them, but that would give them away. Maybe if able on the way back...

As to Robin's words... she wondered if Robin had any idea that she was peering into another level of reality.

"So many ghosts here... lost.. I.. I am sorry but I cannot just leave them like this."

Going back on her initial idea the Spirit's mana reaches for the ghosts of the Huangzhouan warriors, feeding them. Giving them the mana to become Spirits, as many as she was able to do without weakening herself in the event of an attack... it would have to do for now.

She would have not been able to walk away with a clean conscience otherwise.
(Elayna)
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[22:36] Agava says, "Take your time... self can keep the watch."
[22:39] "I understand completely. Take as much time as you need, Elayna. I can help if need be."

Oyl outstretches his arms, allowing his own raw mana to ebb off his limbs to offer to the nearby ghasts of fallen Huangzhou warriors. It were moments like these that he was happy that Thera provided him the Spirit Sight, and so he would continue to aid as many ghosts as possible before moving forward with the rest of the group.

"Poor things...it shouldn't be like this."
(Oyl)
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[22:48] {NARRATION} Several of the sullen faces in the realm beyond life track the trickling source of mana as they travel instinctively towards the sustenance.

For them bound in an eternal purgatory- robbed of a proper passing, the promise of a faint glimmer of power to move beyond that was more than overwhelming for the decades old ghosts.

Weak from their nigh formless existence, the faces of the young warriors come into view- budding adults of Huang's early days, lost in the decisive battle to wipe out the city of demons. But one thing all echoed the same- as the flickering fireflies of light speckle into existence in the real realm, their fingers all point in the same direction as Robins map. The two towers and the fortress.

“Eh? Fireflies? Where those come from? Poor things? Am I missing out?” the explorer asks, tapping her foot on the ground with a light metal clank of her boot clasps.

[22:51] She felt something akin to a shiver, though for her it was more a disturbance in the mana making up her body. Something about the gesture made her worry, though she finishes feeding the Spirits before preparing to move... she had done all she could for now..

"I think... its time we head to the towers.. Just please stay close Robin."

When the others all begin to move she does also, never quite letting the Spirit Realm fade from view, like bobbing in the water she peeked in on occasion. Checking both the physical and spiritual for danger.

Though she could begin to feel something welling inside of her... a feeling...
(Elayna)
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[22:51] Agava rustled while looking at Elayna. "Are you alright?" the dryad asked while staring at her friend.
(Agava)
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[22:53] Elayna says, "I will be fine.. just.. the Spirits here... I'll be fine."
[22:53] Oyl looks to Elayna worriedly as he finishes up. "It's alright to feel uneasy. We should keep moving"
(Oyl)
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[23:03] {NARRATION} As the group presses onwards deeper into the forest and towards the towers, one could truly see the destructive force of this unseen being.

Laying scatter in parts along the ground were bits and pieces of the local fauna- deer and birds all sharing the same fate- struck down in a single blow by something far higher up in the food chain then them.

It wasn't just the animals as well- the trees all leading down the path of the ruins all had similar scarring in the bark- some missing large portions of their trunks as if something bashed straight through them without regard.

Whatever it was, there was no discrimination in whatever got in its way.

“U-rpff the heck happened here” Robin comments as she covers her mouth walking down the path- looking at the slain occupants of the forest.

“This is terrible-”

But before she could finish that last thought- popping out into view in a clearing was the ruins of a brickwork house- and the base of what appeared to be a once massive tower.

Strangely that is also where the destruction stopped.

[23:09] Oyl sticks close to his group, eyes scanning the forest as he anticipates the approach of whatever was skulking around out there. Soon he'd come across a ruined corpse of a deer. Then another. And then even more mauled animals that appeared to be felled by the same creature.

He swallows, knowing that whatever was out there likely caused this destruction even to the trees nearby. Oyl worries for Agava, the sight of the suffering trees that were unable to receive nutrients due to chunks of their bark and trunk taken out had to be a gruesome sight for a Dryad.

As the party approaches a clearing, Oyl would analyze the structure of the old home as well as the ruined tower. He looks to Elayna, proposing no course of action as he simply stands guard and awaits the team's next move.
(Oyl)
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[23:10] Agava ended up closing the group while walking at its rear, rustling silently with each silent step thanks to her moving on bare feet and years spent on venturing among the foliage. The sight around them left her disgusted and worried as everything from flora to fauna appeared to be devastated, forcefully brought to an end of its cycle due to some odd monstrosity she sensed earlier.

"What kind of an abomination would do this... all of the innocent lifes gone... the trees and plants are... crying... they mourn... scream in fear..." the dryad said while her mind sensed the distress of nearby flora, her body visibly shaking, clearly desiring to end the creature that did this and thus not realizing when they neared the tower.
(Agava)
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[23:11] The Spirit's gaze once more observed the trail of whatever was causing this wake of destruction. She knew Agava would be angry at the destruction of the flora and fauna of the area.. She shared the sentiment. It didn't even seem to be eating them... or at least not entirely.. given the remaining pieces lying about.

They also seemed to have been downed by quick blows... whatever it was bore an insane strength judging by all the evidence.

She steps from the tree line as Robin speaks from behind her. Gaze in two realms she looks at both the destroyed home and the base of the tower... more than a little curious why the trail simple ended there of all places.

Unless... it's waiting for them..?

"Stay on close watch... it went this way.. and the ravaging stops at the bottom of the towers ruins..

Robin.. whatever this is, is very strong. Be prepared to move away to let us handle it."

That feeling was continuing to well more and more... still remaining indescribable.

Though the Spirit seemed unable to contain her Holy magic any longer, her eyes seeming to gain a glow as a faint light began to emanate from her. Primarily because of her desire to protect the others in the event of an attack.. but what was the other feeling..
(Elayna)
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[23:18] {NARRATION} Sticking behind the group, the go lucky captain of the boat wasn't so eccentric anymore- her once grinning face was now replaced with a sour scowl as her eyes scanned the buildings, finally free of that sight within the woods.

“Haaa…” Robin sighs, letting out a deep breath- just relieved nothing was standing out here in the open.

“Safe?” she would ask as the rusting hinges on the brick laden house creak- the door lightly swaying in the winds as it stays ajar.

Despite the sense of the trio- nothing could be felt out of place in either realms nor nature- aside from the growing suspicions that is.

(Oyl- Brick building) THe building itself seems fairly worn, the tower completely gone to the winds, but three of the four walls of this grayscale abode holding upright. Among other things the windows were somewhat intact.

[23:19] Oyl says, "What do you all think? Might be some goodies in there."
[23:20] Elayna says, "I.. don't trust anything around here... that.. /thing/.. didn't just up and disappear. Let's go collectively and keep an eye on everything around us."
[23:22] Oyl spins his blade a few times, gripping the hilt tightly as he steadily approaches the creaking door.

"Everyone stay close. I'll take the risk of going first."

The koi nears the door, hopefully with party following narrowly behind as he attempts to investigate the interior.
(Oyl)
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[23:28] {NARRATION} Unlike the previous building the Sirenian had inspected, this one was in much better shape- although it had still seen the ravages of war.

In the center of the room rested an oak table and several chairs- two of the five rotted out from the years of weathering and exposure to the elements.

Upon the rightmost wall was several bookcases full of literature, the majority of the works growing mold and fungus upon them- except for one stand out.

A golden spined book laden in Old Valmasian writing- aged but looking rather intact!

As for the rest of the room- signs of animals or pests were nowhere to be found- the only most recent appearance of life being a strange pattern of dust upon the seat and table- as if someone had rested there not all too recently.

[23:35] The merman peers around carefully, blowing a few holy-coated bubbles to illuminate the immediate area as he stepped into the room. He gazes about at the ruined home, surprised at the fact that it seemed to be in better condition than the huts back at the shore.

"Looks like no one's been here in a while."
Oyl maintains the grip on his blade as he continues to look around. He makes his way to the nearby bookcases with pink hues immediately landing on the tome with the golden spine.

He takes a moment to look over the other texts, intrigued by the literature that the former inhabitants kept stored here. The koi gently pulls the book from the shelf, and tries his best to blow some dust from the cover.

"Hmm. This may make for a fine souvenir."
The Sirenian then glances to his team with a small smile.
(Oyl)
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[23:37] Agava rustled loudly while remaining outside and looking for potential threats.
(Agava)
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[23:38] She glances for a moment at the book, though more concerned with the safety of the group for the moment... Eyes scanning the clearing before looking at the tower once more then in the direction of the fort itself.

"Indeed.. I wonder.. where it went."

Something that large couldn't just disappear into thin air could it?
(Elayna)
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[23:38] Elayna asks, "Should we head to the fort next...? Or the other tower?"
[23:39] Oyl holds onto the book for now, keeping it stored within a pouch on his satchel.
(Oyl)
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[23:39] Oyl says, "Your call, Elayna."
[23:39] {NARRATION} Upon pulling out the golden book, the recognisable word “Kraus” would be labeled upon the front cover.
[23:41] Elayna asks, "Let's make our way... around the fort and look at the other tower. Catch the fort on our way back?"
[23:41] Oyl asks, "Sounds like a plan. Agava, Robin. Ready to move?"
[23:42] Agava says, "Lead the way..."
[23:56] {NARRATION} The decision for the group would be short lived as Robin gives the go ahead nod, still trailing behind the three magi like her life depended upon it- probably because it did!

Because moments later- a thunderous rumble fills the area!

THUD! THUD!!! THUDD!!

Mighty ground tremors fill the area- a red beam of light shooting through the darkness as something massive aproached!

THUMP THUD!

Even more steps as the sound of mechanical whirring fills the air and the beam flays out of the group- bating them in a crimson ambience.

“SCANNING… UNITS 07, 02 CONFIRMED THREE UNIDENTIFIED
UNKNOWN… ENGAGING!!!” The mechanisation screatches as it starts to rocket forwards! Its gun grey metal coated in spattered blood!
[00:01] Her sense of danger was well proven as the red light shines upon the group. Lightning erupts around the Spirit, even as her Holy mana fills the area and unseen presence.

Her eyes glow white as three Spirits form from her mana around her.

She saw... an automaton of sorts..? It looked advanced.. how old was it..? Older than even she?

Staff in hand crackling with holy lightning she fires the first bolt, directly at whatever was casting the red light. An attempt at blinding the construct.

"Don't let it pass us!"

She begins moving, lightning charged body sending her shooting away.

The feeling was building once more...
(Elayna)
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[00:03] The arrival of mechanical beast left the dryad surprised, cough off guard by the metallic abomination that appeared to be just too eager to rush and attack the group with its unidentified murderous intend.

After a brief moment of hesitation Agava ended up untangling her tendril limbs before merging them with the soil, letting some of them resurface in from of appendages she planned to use for combat just while the growing warts on her arms began to burst with Mandrages popping out of them to assist their creator in combat.

"This abomination dies here..." The dryad announced just as her hair began cover her face to point where her emerald eyes appeared as haunting pair of orbs hidden in the shadows of her face, which in turn was twisted in mad murderous intend.
(Agava)
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[00:06] As the party continues on, Oyl can't help but to shiver in anticipation. There seemed to be interesting things in the city, but the looming feeling of a threat out there could not be shaken. The sound of the groups footsteps crunching against the brittle grass and leaves as they walked would be the only noise for a while, until the sound of much larger footsteps became audible.

The steps grew nearer and nearer, becoming louder and more violent as the thing approaches. It felt as if the ground itself was shaking. Oyl soon finds himself being..analyzed? A red light scans the party, and the koi peers out to its source.

A hulking machine appeared to come out of nowhere. The thing appeared to be made with a strange technology, much different than the runes and sigils he was used to seeing on Agarthan equipment. Oyl had never seen anything like it-- a talking beast made of metal- but he would not allow it's foreign nature to intimidate him.

As it charges forward, Elayna strikes at the thing while shouting an order to keep it from passing. Agava quickly follows up by calling forth nature to her side, and Oyl supports by calling forth a holy aura as he feels the intense desire to defend the group.
He snaps his fingers, calling a few of the Huangzhou ghosts to his aid. Green coppery blood magic wraps around his blade as he prepares to assault the violent machinery.

"Whatever that is, we will defeat it. Brace yourselves!"
(Oyl)
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[00:15] * You have been awarded 2 Roleplay Points! *
[00:19] {NARRATION} Charging forwards without fear or remorse, the mechanical abomination fires off tremendous beams of focused energies, annihilating anything that wasn't as durable as the magi Before them.

As sparks fly from the aging mechanics of the machine- tremors and earth collide and crash into the surrounding group- Robin far from the scene of the fight as the three before them fight for their lives.

“INTRUDERS.. UNKNOWNS.. CEASE!” the equipment blares- fire pouring forth from its exhaust spouts- blood dripping from its damaged seems… before the red light upon its head flickers and the Machination collapses from the thrashing the magi give to it.

[00:23] The machine proves durable and difficult to take down, but the sheer power of the magi would prove overwhelming for the mechanical construct as the group successfully bests and repels the oncoming attacks.

Oyl would finish the thing with a swift flourish of his blade followed by a harsh piercing strike as he plunged his sword within the 'head' of the machine. It breaks down, the red light blinking out as the clunky foe falls to the ground.

"I think...I think that did it. Let's get a move on, before any more of those things come out of the woodwork."
He gestures to the party, urging them to quickly leave away from the Rundown Equipment.
(Oyl)
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[00:28] The group assailed the construct, holy, lightning, water, and nature all combining into a true force of nature.

Vines and Spirits entangling or getting in its way, holy mana and lightning raining from the sky, water blasting it from the sides. All of them gave it their all.. doing their best to make sure it didn't reach Robin.

In the end Oyl knocked it down with his shifting blade, the red light dying away as it falls to the ground.

"Maybe... it'll stay that way."

She moves towards Robin,

"Right.. let's.. continue on to the next tower."

After picking up their charge she would await the others and begin to move.
(Elayna)
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[00:33] Agava rustled loudly as her body danced through the ground during the combat, dodging and blocking most of the strikes that were aimed to harm her, taking as much heat on herself to give the others opportunity to strike the automaton that engaged them.

She remained rooted up till the very moment when their enemy was downed and dealt with by both Oyl and Elayna allowing Agava to uproot her limbs and tangle them into hands and feet, inspecting them for damage before looking back at her companions to ensure they were fine.
(Agava)
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[00:41] {NARRATION} Giving the last faint few flickers of light from the machine- fleshy red mass pours forth from the fractures in its plating- crystals flowing forth from the gooey center of the machine.

“U-NIT 07 INO-P, REQUES- 02 TH-REE HOS-”

And with the final blaring from its mechanics the machine shuts down- for good-

Who knows how many years and victims the thing has claimed.

Pulling out from the shadows, Robin stares at the robot before glancing back at Elayna with a firm nod.

“R-right.. Last tower.” they nod as they shift nervously under their robes. Probably unsettled from the sight of the death machine.

[00:45] Oyl peeks back to Robin, hoping that the machine didn't spook her off too much. Without her maps, the group would likely be stuck if the guide suddenly chose to haul ass. Oyl keeps up the pace away from the fallen robot and towards the next tower, sticking close to Elayna and Agava.
(Oyl)
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[00:46] With a concerned glance for Robin she envelopes the mapper with Holy mana, a soothing feeling filling her as she gathers their small group together.

"It'll be alright Robin, just a tower and fort left for the most part.."

The Spirit's holy mana seemed to be wrapping itself about her like a cloak, she didn't seem to realize, or mind it.
(Elayna)
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[00:53] {NARRATION} Comforted by others and nearly at the goal, the sea captain couldn't feel more relieved with her journey nearly at an end. They had been on their feet for who knows how long now- with the toll on the woman showing upon her movements.

It wouldn't take long for the group to circle around to the other tower- the evidence of the Robots damage evident as the entrance to the base of the tower of power was relatively intact- as if it was maintained.

“It looks like we finally made it here- home at last-” Robin grasps at her shoulder, looking at the aged map- should just be through that entrance-” she mumbles as they stumble forwards.

[00:55] The Spirit blinks at Robin's words... what did she just say..?

"Home at last?"

Her mana begins to condense around her.
(Elayna)
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[01:04] {NARRATION} “Yes-”she replies.

Tugging at the edge of the woman's drab brown robes and hood, the fabrics flutter and collapse onto the floor, revealing an abomination of a woman before them. A giant 02 on their shoulder
( https://i.imgur.com/enbc5XP.jpg )

“Im OTwo Designation Cartographer, machination of Tinkerer- the machinist, you have returned me back home.. At last, though I fear Im incapable of going farther than this tower..” the woman says as she stumbles forwards, placing their back on the wall and sliding down onto the ground.

“I lack the power to get into my creators labs, I cannot complete my directive- I fear I am not strong enough.” they say as they look up at the group.

[01:08] Her eyes widen as she see's what the woman truly is... was she even human..? Some mix of construct and biological life? She felt cold dread in her metaphorical heart, the horrors of this place apparent before her eyes...

"What.. was your directive..? And.. are you both biological and machine..? Who is the Tinkerer?"

So many questions... Though now she observed her with wariness in her eyes regardless of how weak she currently seemed.
(Elayna)
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[01:14] {NARRATION} “To map the Island of Agartha and its resources- to better assist my creator in procuring materials to continue his work… its- become difficult with over half a century of neglect and lack of maintenance- I had to return without finishing or risk losing it all.

Complete loss was not an option.” OTwo stares back

“The Tinkerer… was lead research and development of Bioengineered weapons. Resident of Giar- Location unknown..

Within the labs are tools to perform maintenance upon his creations, but the power source was destroyed along with OSeven.”

[01:20] She doesn't like the way this was going...

"Bioengineered weapons... so.. combat versions of you..? What was the thing we fought before..? Some sort of entirely mechanical design..? That's why it only said three... it knew you."

She was frowning slightly,

"Who is OSeven?"

She needed to get all the information she could before deciding her next move...

"Are you both... human and machine..?"
(Elayna)
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[01:26] {NARRATION} “OSeven was the seventh in the series, a combat prototype using biomass accumulated from demons who failed the Accursed programme. Naturally it was aggressive and suited itself as a weapon- but its downfall was its inability to make proper judgements outside of based commands- leaving it flawed and unable to wander alone.

OTwo is a human prototype of the Deceased Robin Maley, designation Valmasian civilian. Current construction was too fragile to make a proper combat model and was abandoned partway though- So I was repurposed.

We are not designed to run this long.”

[01:31] Tears form in her eyes...

"OSeven… mm... is likely still down in the labs then..? And you are... a mechanically sustained Undead..?"

The tears begin to fall regardless of her answer, this place was driving itself into the Spirit. Everything she had seen... and now this.. bioengineered weaponry...

Thera definitely needed to become aware of this fast..


(Elayna)
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[01:36] {NARRATION} “Undead would assume we have died in the first place. This body used to belong to the former Robin, I am Robin- but not.

I Know nothing more beyond this. I have all the memories, but Ive also have directives. All I know is to return no matter the costs.” She says starting to slouch.

“But I have failed that as well. With no powersource, the entrance will not open in the tower.”

[01:37] Elayna asks, "So you were... replaced..? Or.. sustained mechanically instead of death..?"
[01:37] Elayna asks, "What kind of power source would be needed..?"
[01:43] {NARRATION} “There is vague memories of obtaining these new limbs while still designated as Robin. In this new body, Robin cannot die- as long as there is proper maintenance its been…… eighteen thousand two hundred fifty days since Tinkerer has last checked on OTwo.

Without a power source from condensed elemental stones, the doors will remain shut.”

[01:49] The Spiritmancer would peer deeply into the Spirit Realm, an attempt to find Robin's Spirit, should it be bound somehow. She could feel something akin to a pain... this woman.. was made into this... an abomination of life, a slave, a mockery of creation... and there were things even worse.

The tears dripping from her cheeks fade away into nothing... manifestations of mana.. though still true to the emotion they represented. The mana around her began to intensify more and more the longer this conversation goes on...

"Will the stones from the other automaton work...?"

Her voice sounded small.
(Elayna)
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[01:56] {NARRATION} “I- do not know. That isnt something I can answer.” she replies back.

Even with Elayna’s search into the realm of the dead- there would be nothing to find- at least around this part of the world that would help the abomination before her.

“Without a directive- I shall wait here for the return of the Tinkerer, my purpose is complete. Thank you for your efforts. As my designation is not that as a sentry like OSeven, you may leave without risk to yourself.” the machination replies.

[02:14] She stood there for a few moments... in silent contemplation.. not moving.. or speaking. She looked to the woman with something akin to pity in her eyes as her vision returned entirely to the physical plane once more. The Book of Kraus they had found held in one hand, a weight much heavier than the physical in that moment.

There was no scripture, verse, or testimony on how to deal with this... There was only her... and what she knew to be right. She had been preserved through a means that was most certainly depraved.. life should not be treated this way. This was on par if not worse than Necromancy.. at least now Calael had made the beginnings of a cure of sorts...

She could only offer one final act of kindness... of freedom... she hadn't seen the woman's spirit, the true Robin. Though in the end... she could offer a merciful death... or a slow one were she to leave her here cursed to decay away...

Her hands brushed the book as she lifted it before her... she opened it almost as if a guiding hand led her to the final pages.. spells of holy magic, likely long forgotten...

She closes the book and speaks softly,

"I... am sorry Robin.. but I must free you from this.. I cannot see what you are as anything but a mockery of creation... a slave to whatever depraved arts or sciences did this to you..

I don't know what kind of person you were... but I don't think this is something you would have wanted.. or even if so.. if there was no way to cure an Undead, their Spirit must be freed.

This is the final mercy I can offer you.."

The feeling that had been building... the mana... it all burst forth. The Spirit exploding with radiance as the air itself seemed to breathe her magic... the book is opened again.... the instructions for a spell older than the ruins they stood on flow before her eyes.

"Kraus give me the strength to do what I must..."

She whispers softly.

She brings her hand down, a pillar of pure holy magic strikes down from the sky tearing through the wall of the tower Robin had been leaning on, the pure holy magic striking the abomination and ending their 'life' of slavery before they had an opportunity to feel pain.

Even as a melting section of the tower would be missing, the Spirit falls to her knees and sobs. Not in regret, no. Her tears were shed because her act of mercy was necessary... something no one should have to do and yet she did.

Ethreal hands clutch the book to her chest.
(Elayna)
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[02:27] {NARRATION} Looking up from the ground with a tilt of her head, OTwo would start to stare at Elayna on confusion.

For one who had lived longer under command than she had in their mortal life, the thought of being freed from its grasp was not something they could fathom. But deep down inside, the machination knew. It “Felt” those words.

Staring up to the skies above them, the slouched robot watches as the pillar of light descends upon them- the woman not screaming in pain nor fear but in acceptance of the fate that befell her.

And upon her cheek- the first time in over half a century a tear is shed, as if a deeper understanding was met with the woman who was providing the long lost girl mercy.

“Ahhh.. I remember now.” Was all the machination would mumble within the dazzling radiance before the frame of the being becomes limp and collapses sideways onto the ground- the metals consisting of the creations frame melted and charred.

Finally at rest.

But resting not all to far from Robins body would be her lifetimes work- the map Of Agartha- and her home.

[02:31] It seemed to be minutes before she was able to move... even if the woman's words eased her conscience. She now at her deepest level understood this place... and why the Spirits here were willing to die to end it..

It all made sense to her now.

She slowly rises... she moves to the maps.. precious information they had came for. And allies in tow.... she makes their way back to the boat.


(Elayna)