5/18 Frozen Heart - CoD

 Dun Task says, "And so it begins...."
 Dun would await the trio in the depths of the Pyrelight Citadel patiently, clicking his teeth together with a thoughtful, contended hum as he mulled over the matters at hand. As the ensemble of those that would join his first of many spirit trials, he'd gesture to the hooka that sat upon the floor between them with an idle click of his teeth.

"This smoking device is packed with near one hundred year old reed, and has been treated with the juices of countless hallucigenics for the purpose at hand. It will be necessary to dislodge the mind from the body, and properly project one's psyche into the depths of the other realm."

The elder of the Fireblooded would grab the hooka's hose before taking a long, nigh three minute drag before holding it in for thirty seconds. As he released the great puff of smoke up towards the rafters, he would chuckle lightly to himself.

Before falling upon his back, unconscious.
(Dun Task)
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 She wasn't sure how one traveled to the Spirit realm exactly, but once they arrived it made a bit more sense. Vermillion hues shifting towards the hookah between them. "..Seems legit." She says with a soft shrug, taking her turn upon the smoking device and falling unconscious.
(Khione)
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 No fear.

Dun's words almost certainly reached his ears, but Sparrow was too tried, to truly care about their meaning. Instead, he'd simply wait his turn for on the glorious hooka.

Once it was?

A Sparrow would follow Dun's lead, holding the drag for three minutes. It was... Agony for the youth who had never smoked a day in his life, but somehow he manages.

Holding it in for that thirty seconds, before that immaculate puff of smoke was released from him. Unlike with Dun though, Sparrow would find himself coughing, instead of laughing as he passed the heck out.
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 Fine speckles of golden-hued dust practically coated the cowboy's nose and upper lip! Resulting in a majestic mustache of gold, along magical output increased at the cost of manic euphoria.

That was a man ready for a spectacularly unpredictable and wild expedition!

It was a necessary sacrifice, Arch hurriedly checked through his satchel, accounting for the inventory.

Glancing between all members of the trio-- "I'm truly hopin' that overdosin' on a mixture of drugs ain't a possibility." The Courier gave a idle shrug, before nonchalantly taking the hookah's hose--

Following their lead for three minutes..

Easily the most tolerable part of that entire journey-- Oh, and he passed out.

Eventually.
(Arch)
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 {NARRATION} You awaken lain flat across a smooth, cool surface- eyes cast skywards, peering into an unending white mist. There is no sound that reaches your ears, no sensation other than the blank sky above and the chill pressed to your back.

Your mind begins to clear, and you stand- eyes able to now rove over the vastness that surrounds you. At your feet, an endless breath of waters, clear, and yet so deep as to be dark- containing the unknowable. The white mist housed within the sky falls down around you, leaving you alone in this cold, vast ocean.

But you are not alone. Around you stand several indistinct figures- amorphous masses of various colours. As you wake further and further from sleep, their shapes come into form.

Their figures- faces- forms appear familiar- as if you should know them, and yet you are unable to place a name to each and all. It is certain that you know one another- the names as if just on the tip of one’s tongue, yet unreachable- as are all things known outside this realm.

Despite this, all are aware of two truths- that you are companions, and that you have come to this ceaseless sea with purpose.

Yet what purpose may be found within this blank land- or the lack thereof?
[20:15] As Dun's projected consciousness manifested in the great, frigid sea of fog and lapping waves in the endless oceans of Uraheim, it first became immediately apparent to him one detail above all others.

He wasn't blind. Without his body holding him back, the full extent of his senses could be manifested in the depths of the realm of spirit. As an energy magi, it felt almost like coming home after a long, long trip away.

It felt....good. Refreshing. Like cold water upon a parched throat.

As his etheric form fluctuated idly, the timeless jester would release his form as his physicality shifted, manifesting as a nigh sentient mound of blue flame hovering lightly above the water. This was the realm of spirit, he didn't just need to be himself but ghostlier.

He was now a wisp.

(Dun Task)
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 If....If we were being entirely honest, Sparrow wasn't sure what to expect when he followed Dun's lead, by smoking an incredible amount of... Something? His uncle had probably said what it was, but for the life of Sparrow he didn't remember.

Yet, it seems whatever they did... Worked.

Wild.

As Sparrow began to come to his senses, those emerald eyes of his would flicker around to those present. Strange mases of colors, that... For the life of him he should know who they are.

Yet he doesn't.

Where exactly was he again? No, no... Where wasn't the important right now. The why, and who was.

Why was he here, and who where these strangers. They... Had come here together right? They had to have...Right? They were companions, that had come to this unending ocean for something... But, what was that something?

HM...

"...I'm really confused right now." The former High Keeper stated, as he folded his arms across his chest.

"What uhh… What are we doing here?"
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 Despite craving the sanctity of slumber. The Courier's eyes slowly flickered open-.. At first? Silence. Arch's mind was akin to a mire-- Until it all began to clear.

The man's gaze roamed and erratically flicked about, surrounded by the vastness of water, it took a moment for it all to process-...

They were standing on water!

Those hazel eyes went wide, especially noticing those silhouette's scattered-- here and there-... How uncomfortable. Instinctively, Arch lowered a hand near his holster-..

Why was he here?

Why'd everything feel so-... euphoric?

"Huh... quite tha' ugly bunch." The Courier off-handedly commented, clicking his tongue and not entirely settling his guard.

Companions or not.
(Arch)
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As Dun's projected consciousness manifested in the great, frigid sea of fog and lapping waves in the endless oceans of Uraheim, it first became immediately apparent to him one detail above all others.

He wasn't blind. Without his body holding him back, the full extent of his senses could be manifested in the depths of the realm of spirit. As an energy magi, it felt almost like coming home after a long, long trip away.

It felt....good. Refreshing. Like cold water upon a parched throat.

As his etheric form fluctuated idly, the timeless jester would release his form as his physicality shifted, manifesting as a nigh sentient mound of blue flame hovering lightly above the water. This was the realm of spirit, he didn't just need to be himself but ghostlier.

He was now a wisp.

"Hmmm...…..this is nice....I'm glad I can share this....with...hmmmm."

The wisp realized with sudden clarity that he had no idea who those around him were. Or who he was.

"No idea. I'll just call that one Ugly. What..what's here again?"
(Dun Task)
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 To her it had felt as if she had simply blinked, peering upwards now to something entirely different than what her eyes had closed to.. She could hear nothing, and as it was now see nothing but moist fog.

Though slowly it all begins to come back, or at least, some of it does.. The waters below her, she was here for something.. but what was it..? Shifting her vermillion hues around, staring towards the others nearby. Who were they..?

It was as though they were someone she saw in the market after a decade, that feeling of knowing their face but being unable to quite place it. Some ethereal extension of her that represented the blessed aspect of her soul. "...I.. I have no idea.." She continues to stare at the water.

She was a water Magi, right..?

She makes an attempt to shift a small amount of the water before her.. maybe stirring it would jog her memory a little.
(Khione)
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{NARRATION} Time passes amidst discussion and the seas remain tranquil, save for the gentle shifting imparted by Khione's magical aptitude- yet she has no time to bring to surface memories, as one moment they are alone...

Then they are not.

Beneath their feet, the waters shift- below them, a great form moving deep below the surface. It remains there, drifting in a circle beneath them for several long, silent seconds...

Afore that great mass begins to surge upwards towards them. There’d seldom be time to step from the huge thing’s point of egress, far less initiate a strike towards it while it still surfaces. It breaks the reigning silence with an echoing crash as the water breaks apart, a plume of the fluids sent skywards, frothing with rage at being disturbed.

It takes but mere moments for the water to fall back to its former rest, to reveal that which created such a resounding disturbance- within where they had previously stood is a great beast. It’s figure and form are not truly comprehensible- placing a strain upon their minds as they take in the creature.

Yet it affords them not this time to comprehend it. With a ear-splitting roar, the waters beneath them tremble- and shake- and then begin to shift. Whatever this unknowable monstrosity is, it is clear that it means to end them.

 Dun's psyche barely had time to recall the name of the ugly boy before the cacaphonic eruption of shifting waters revealed, almost like the still depths were peeled away briefly for the unthinkable leviathan to manifest, before sitting upon the still surface was that great, unthinkable beast.

His mind could barely fully focus on it before it let loose its roar, no doubt with enough volume that his ears would have bled if he actually had ears. Instead, his psyche's ears bled instead, though considering he had no blood vessels, this was likely merely part of his own imagination.

Yet, even with the fog over his mind, the burning spirit within the amnesiac clown did not shudder with fear at the beast. No, something within told him memories or not, his purpose was to face such things as this in glorious combat. It wasn't just his duty, it wasn't for treasure. No.

It's because for some reason, when he was on the hunt, all felt right.

Raising his fists as CAPTAIN DUN TASK STARED DOWN THE BEAST, THE ETHERIC SPIRIT WOULD PREPARE FOR A RUMBLE. HE HAD REMEMBERED WHO HE WAS PROBABLY.

He was a pirate.
(Dun Task)
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 Her shifting of the water was disturbed, she felt the waters shift near them, something massive coming their way.. "MOVE!" She lets out a cry, the surface tension all but shattered as the massive ocean beast stood before them.

It's details were hard to focus upon, but she knew all she needed.. Where it was, and that it wanted them all dead. Even if names were forgotten, she knew enough to know these were her companions for a reason.

This was a challenge for an intrustion upon it's domain, the waters ripple and tear beneath them at the great cry of the thing. Though it was clear there was a lesson to be taught here.

Never fight an Dragon of ice upon the water.

Her wispy shape explodes in a flurry of ice and snow, great spikes of ice forming atop the water as they're suddenly hurled forward into the beast's center like torpedoes. "..We can figure why we're here later."

"For now we have to put some seafood, on ice." Did she actually say that..?

Yes, yes she did, and with her words the winter storm that was Khione would engage their foe in earnest.
(Khione)
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 Trapped in the middle of a ocean, with water stretching for miles with a group of strangers-... Arch had to have been to worse rodeos! Tranquility be damned. The waters flowed and ebbed, shifting and changing!

Hazel sights trailed the circling path of that form-- The Cowboy's grip was firmly upon his revolver, cautiously thumbing back the hammer.

For a master of time? They wouldn't have long before they were charged! An echoing crash rung out.

Swiftly turned on heel! A foolhardy attempt to shield himself and his sacred hat-...

Oh tarnation!

Dazed, confused and faced with a great beast, the likes of which, Arch'd never once saw before-- "Oh. That ain't yer' usual varmint." Blinking-- Confusion or not, it was becoming abundantly clear to the cowpoke.

This was kill or be killed--

"Helfire. That thing makes a crellus look cuddly." With Dun Task raising his fists at the beast? Challenge or not. One thing Arch could've never forgot-...?

How to shoot.
(Arch)
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 A conversation to stir their memories seemed like the proper course of events, but alas it seems like it wasn't meant to be.

They weren't alone.

It seems like a native to this realm wasn't particularly keen on them being here, and thus it had decided to make it's presence known in a rather dramatic fashion.

Sparrow's emerald eyes widened with a fear, as the mass surged closer towards them. His hand would instinctively reach back for Starburn, grasping onto the hilt of the great blade, as his body found itself enveloped by the Lifestream's embrace.

Yet, he wasn't fast enough in drawing out his family's weapon, the creature had already pierced through the surface of the water. Sparrow's grip on his blade tightened, as it at long last found it's way off of his back, and into his hand.

Yet, there was a part of him, that had long since been burried deep that comes towards the surface. His grandmother was once a pirate, was she not, and surrounded by all this water, well...

Perhaps it evoked those hidden away tendencies from the man.

"I ain't too sure who ye' fooks are, but I sure as Hel hope yer' good at fightin'. If not we're right fooked."

Captain Sparrow was born...

With that the freshly minted pirate, would rush at the creature, blade in hand.

"Come on ye' scurvy dog, try to put up a decent fight."
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 {NARRATION} The non-euclidean serpent’s mastery over its own waters quickly becomes apparent, massive rifts of water forming within the once tranquil sea, great waves of foaming ocean charging forth towards them- twisting typhoons raining down pain upon them.

Arch and Dun are subsumed by the waves at nearly the same time- pushed beneath the waves with a raging fury, and kept beneath by the woven magics the serpent continuously administered.

Khione was next to fall- yet her own skill in water magics allowed her to draw the beast’s ire...long enough for, even as she fell beneath the waves…

For Sparrow to surge upwards, blade glinting within the non-existent sunlight, to swipe down and, in one clean blow...to sever the creature’s neck clean through. It’s head falls to the waters beneath, the sea instantly becoming tranquil once more.

As the sea-beast ceases its movement, very quickly does it begin to sink beneath the waves- so fast, so rapid, that is has sunk below sight in only a minute. With its disappearance, the ever-shrouding mist seems to abate somewhat- and in the far distance- near out of their sight- the warriors would be able to gaze upon the silhouette of what appeared to be a mountainous island- at the peak of which, something seemed to glimmer.

Yet as soon as their focus was set upon it, their perception shifts- downwards, as if they are sinking. The water that had supported them flawlessly throughout conflict with the aqueous serpent appears able no longer to hold their forms.

Quickly they sunk down below the surface of the water, their bodies paralyzed utterly, their group split apart- the water seeping in betwixt lips, closed or open- drowning them alive without hope of rescue. Alone.
[21:38] It was quite the fight indeed, her initial barrage shattering against the hard shell with scarcely a scratch.. Though by then the rest of the group had engaged just as intensely.

Time, holy, ice, energy, fire.. The sea beast was assailed by an intense assault of all kinds of magic on the spectrum. Though it didn't go down without a fight, waves that rushed forward at impossible speeds back to back slam into all of them.. None of them could endure such a barrage for long, it was only her own natural affinities for the elements present and Sparrow's healing that had kept her up this long.

Being drawn beneath the waves as Sparrow delivers that felling blow she could only wonder comes next... Vermillion eyes peering towards that mountain as she sank below the waves.

Despite being a water Magi it didn't seem to help at all, water pouring into ethereal lips as she simply sank..
(Khione)
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 Hel, Arch was stuck with a band of scurvy vagabonds and pirates . . . ! Those hazel eyes practically tumble-rolled. Wasting precious time wasn't an option! His hand instinctively jolted toward his holster.

Within a single and smooth motion, drawing and slinging off a flurry of mana-shots-- The hammer was fanned using flat of his palm.

Alas, the sea-beast's shell was seemingly nigh-impenetrable. Shots, after shot bounced off it's hardened carapace-- Arch's hazel eyes widened with worry, "Advance!"

…

In the opposite direction!

Despite the enshrouding fog upon his psyche, under pressure? Arch's more cowardly and evasive tendencies were prone to surfacing. Though the rampant flooding and bashing waves made the gunslinger's usual brand of evasion and maneuverability nearly impossible.

Again, and again, furious waves crashed down upon increased beleaguered courier. Until submerged, struggling, if it weren't for Sparrow's quick surge and severing the beast's neck-...?

It would've been Arch's end--

Not that relief lasted long-- Just couldn't shake that sinking feeling that something was amiss.

(Arch)
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 Dun would find himself not facing a battle on the high seas, but a battle against the high seas themselves. His close ranged, pugilistic manner of fighting did allow him to release powerful blasts of ki to singe the serpent, concussive kicks to its neck to weaken the muscle, but even he wasn't capable of overwhelming something quite so strong.

The waves swallowed the clown in a whirlpool, the wisp being snuffed out by the torrent of water as he was dragged, stretched, and strewn beyond mental consciousness from the ferocity of the Uraheimic tides.

As water filled his illusory lungs and eye sockets, sinking lower and lower into the depths of the frigid waters, the timeless jester felt almost like he could laugh. It was a bad joke, in truth, and yet those were his favorite, weren't they?

Well, they would be if he knew who he was. There was a sense of hollowness still the water didn't quite fill up, though it was rather efficient at the drowning part.

As he fell deeper, paralyzed, he could only smile as he gazed up at the fading surface.

It was a beautiful day for a swim.
(Dun Task)
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Captain Sparrow would rush forth, his grip on Starburn tightening as he did everything within his power to avoid the undented torrents of water, and massive waves which surged towards them.

His own body flickered with light, as he flickered all across the water battlefield. One by one his companions fell. Arch, and Dun were dragged under the water. Yet, there was something off about the way the creatures next actions.

It seemed fixated on the drakanite, who's name presently escaped him. That... That would be the creatures undoing. With light flickering around his ethereal form, Sparrow would soar up, and out of the water. His own light seemingly poured into Starburn, as the great cosmic blade began to burst at the seems with every color on the spectrum.

Spectral hands appeared, if only for a moment to guide his blow. With that aid, a singular swing of the great blade would follow cleaving through the thick neck of the creature, and removing it's head with one go.

Plus, the arching blow of his sword caused a little rainbow to form! How lovely.

Though the moment the Captain landed, he'd find that the water that had supported him up until this point had... Well, it decided it was done doing that, and the next thing he knew, he was being dragged into the water depths.

"Oh stars. Oh-.." Fuck.

He didn't even get to finish his statement, as the water truly enveloped his ethereal form. Of all the ways Sparrow had expected to die, the pond enthusiast had never imagined drowning being the way he'd go out.

Well shit.
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 {NARRATION} You awaken lain flat across a soft, cold surface- eyes cast skywards, peering into bleak snowfall. There is no sound that reaches your ears, no sensation other than the dull sky above and the chill pressed to your back.

Your mind begins to clear, and you stand- eyes able to now rove over the vastness that surrounds you. At your feet, freshly-fallen snow- stretching out before you towards the base of a nearby mountain, its high peak concealed by the ceaseless snowfall. Behind you, waves washing ashore in near-silence- so quiet as to require focus to be heard. The gentle snow continues to fall, surrounding you in light blankets of white- leaving you alone on this wintery beach.

But you are not alone. Around you stand several indistinct figures- amorphous masses of various colours. As you wake further and further from sleep, their shapes come into form.

Their figures- faces- forms appear familiar- as if you should know them, and yet you are unable to place a name to each and all. It is certain that you know one another- the names as if just on the tip of one’s tongue, yet unreachable- as are all things known outside this realm.

Despite this, all are aware of three truths- that you are companions, that you have come to this snowbound island with purpose, and that this has happened before.

Yet what purpose may be found within this blank land- and why does this feel so familiar?


 She awoke to a sensation she felt every day, the sensation of falling snow upon her face.. The chill against her back, it reminded her of something.. but she wasn't sure what. Slowly she stands, peering at the snowy peak concealed under the frozen fractals around them.

Gaining more awareness of her surroundings she looks towards the other shapes around her.. she knew them didn't she..? Of course she did, they were-- Who were they again..?

Why were they here? She knew enough to tell this wasn't her normal mountain, even there could be some kinship felt for it. She was a mountain herself after all, the daughter of the mountain she had been born upon.. Yet what mountain had she been born on? It was all so fuzzy..

"..I feel deja vu.." She looks at all of them before turning her gaze onto the snowy ground before them.. "I wonder..." Directing her mana forward she aims to part the falling snow, perhaps to reveal a bit more of the landscape around them and a clue as to why they were even here.

They were here for something after all, right..? She felt as though she knew that much.
(Khione)
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 Despite craving the sanctity of slumber. The Courier's eyes slowly flickered open-.. At first? Silence. Arch's mind was akin to a mire-- Until it all began to clear.

The man's gaze roamed and erratically flicked about, surrounded by freshy-fallen snow-...! Peering toward the base of that unusual mountain

Those hazel eyes went wide, especially noticing those silhouette's scattered-- here and there-... How uncomfortable. Instinctively, Arch lowered a hand near his holster-..

Why was he here?

Why'd everything feel so-... hazy?

More importantly? Why'd the Cowpoke feel so walloped! Aching, jaw gritting as he impatiently dug through his pack. Pulling out a bottled-up elixir, and paying not an ounce of attention toward the others, beside a singular off-hand comment.

"Can't believe I'm with such an ugly bunch-.." Deja-vu.

Directing a swig of the potion down his gullet, as more of the landscape could've been revealed.
(Arch)
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 Where... Where was he again?

As Sparrow's consciousness began to return to him, those emerald eyes of his would slowly open up. Was... Was it snowing? The tired eyes of the man darted around his surroundings trying to figure out what in the stars name was going on.

It was... Cold here.

Yet, it seems he wasn't alone.

Strange masses of colors flanked his side, that the more he seemed to awaken became, clearer, and clearer. Something about each of them seemed very, very familiar, and yet he couldn't quite place it.

Then again, that's not the only thing he couldn't place right now.

"Why... Why am I traveling with a clown, a cowboy, and a dragon..? What the frick am I doing with my life..."

Why did this all seem so eerily familiar?

"This... Island."

A question he wasn't likely to get an answer to.

He was here for a reason right?

Yet, he hadn't the faintest idea of what it was.


(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 Dun's eyes would open, for that is what they were in this projection, to the fall of soft snow and a nigh softer chill. Staring up into the vast, empty sky, the snowy drift that fell, the maniacal psyche of the clown prince found itself...paused.

Or perhaps paused was the wrong word. Pacified, sedated, frozen....it felt as if for the first time in almost a hundred years, since he'd seen snow fall for the first time as a young boy, that he felt this particularly way...

It was dreadfully nostalgic, and yet with his memories faded, he couldn't place it. The source of the feeling, the sense of longing for the simplicity. The vision of what was lost, a nigh manifestation of his innocence that was stolen, beaten, and murdered.

Slowly, after minutes or hours or days, for time mattered little with the comfort he felt, Dun would rise to see unfamiliar faces, unclear and unfocused. Words spoken, and yet they too felt....familiar. It was as if that sense ofknowing something right at the back of your mind had been made manifest in a communal experience.

And yet nothing came to the forefront of the man's mind.

"This....has happened before. I don't....know how many times. Who....are we......and why are we here?"

Though the question was literal, in truth Task was asking himself from the heart a question far deeper, a chance to introspect without the burden of his memories and bitterness what his heart truly felt, unscarred by life.
(Dun Task)
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 {NARRATION} Time passes amidst discussion and the snows remain tranquil, discounting Khione's disturbance of them.

Then they are not- even further so.

From a cave far above them, hidden within the side of the mountain, an echoing roar sounds- and as their gazes swung towards it, they would witness not the source.

Until they noticed that a white form, blended within the blank setting they find themselves, was barreling towards them from on-high. It lands amidst the snows just before the group, and stands- stretching its figure out. What stands before them is a great figure of fur, two horns spreading from the sides of its head besides eyes concealed by shaggy fluff, wide grinning mouth set just below that.

It’s arms swing upwards, then slam into the ground- sending a shockwave out throughout the ground as it once more roars in agitation. Snow flies up around it, creating a blanket of cover- from which it quickly charges, its fists flying towards the closest interloper- and close behind, spikes of ice and snow follow.
[22:02] It seemed not even a potent ice Magi could move the snow here, which was definitely odd, but it certainly wasn't the most odd thing they had been set to experience. She couldn't remember who these people were still after all..

A roar resounds down the mountain, the massive furred thing landing before them.. "What in the Spirits is that?" She speaks, an ethereal copy of her whip lashing against the snow as it's drawn..

She felt the ground tremble at the impact, more so than the rest likely, she was an earth Magi after all.. Using that sense of the ground beneath her to try and find the thing even though she couldn't see it clearly, the wintery nature of the island heeding her call as the ground beneath them began to erupt and shake.

For some reason she couldn't help but feel she was happy to be on dry land.
(Khione)
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 Yet again, they wouldn't get a chance to ponder about their identities, or their purpose here.

No sooner had he regained consciousness, had a powerful roar sounded out throughout the island. Confused emerald eyes darted up towards the mountain. Yet, nothing is seen.

Not until he squints at least.

Then, and only then would Sparrow be able to make out the figure hidden within the snow. The giant furry beast, with two great horns sprouting from the side of it's head. Worst of all, it didn't seem particularly keen on the party of merry adventurers being here.

"Oh dear."

Such inspiring words from the Queen.

As the creature moved closer towards them, Sparrow's hand would reach back once more gripping onto the hilt of his blade, as the Lifestream found itself coiling around his features as Starburn found it's way off of his back, and into his hands.

Strange.... Hadn't he done that already?

No that's just ridiculous.

Unless...?

Something to worry about after dealing with the Yeti.
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 Wasn't this all a touch familiar?! Meandering around dazed and confused, not that Arch could've pondered with the echoing roaring that began emerging from the cave!

Ruined one's attention

"Coulda' swore we've done this song and dance before!" It was too familiar, by now-.. And just as before?! Instinctively, a hand shot back to grip his mana-rifle.

Aiming to maneuver away from the shockwave, a wide grin beginning to manifest on the cowboy's visage-...

He was beginning to enjoy this!

"Somethin' that we gotta' kill." Gravity began distorting around the cowpoke-- before letting another salvo of shots burst forth.
(Arch)
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Dun's tranquil contemplation into the ways of the world was interrupted by the great, shattering echo from a cave above. Or was it below? Spatial and kinesthetic senses seemed to have no grasp here, but something told the timeless jester that whatever they sought....

They needed to go up. Higher.

As the white form left down upon the snow in a shockwave of powdery snow and frigid ice, the clown would instinctively cross his arms; both of them in this projection of spirit, as they blackened and shimmered with condensed mana.

He might just be old Elder Dun now, but he was still Task of the absolute defense, and he would not fall this day.

Well, he would think that if he had his memories, but instead it just felt like a natural reflex to reinforce himself, fists raised and hardened in preparation for a bout of good, manly fun.

"You know...I don't know shit. But that thing's fur looks pretty warm."
(Dun Task)
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{NARRATION} Whatever the furred beast is, it is certainly angry. The earth trembles, the snows quake with each of its movements. And yet?

They stand valiant despite. Arch and Dun split across its front, Khione rooting its feet within the ice. Sparrow?

In a moment of prescience, he knows what to do. He dashes forth, blade swinging across its middle- and it cuts through the yeti as if paper. The furred beast stalls in its tracks, arms swinging for but another moment- then it simply...slides apart.

The furred beast collides with the ground with a resounding ‘thud’, snow sent into the air in an expanding circles. The snow that had fallen since they had awoken stops so suddenly, their gaze suddenly drawn skywards.

As the snowfalls cease, the clouds obscuring their view of the peak seem to fade from form- and high atop them, the top of the mountain seems to glimmer- and so suddenly, it feels as if they’ve seen it before.

In that moment, you all recall that which previously occurred with the serpent of the sea- and yet, at the same moment, a rumble echos from the mount- and billowing towards them comes a wall of snow high and terrible. An avalanche.

Any attempt to evade the oncoming rush of snow and ice is rendered fruitless, as each and all find themselves paralyzed utterly. It hits with the weight of many thousands of tonnes, parting the group- bones breaking quickly from the force- their minds all set alight with the pain of being crushed to death without hope of rescue. Alone.


 Given that gruesome beast's rather chilly reception of the merry band of miscreants, scorching flame erupted from the rifle's bore - aiming to counter it's natural affinity for ice.

An explosion roared with each squeeze of the trigger, between each salvo? Arch'd deftly maneuver his way through the snow-marred field.

Mixing his nimble maneuverability with a mixture of concussive and explosives shots! Drawing it's attention for Sparrow, dashing forth and swinging starburn

Slicing through the yeti with relative ease--! Yet, the snowfalled would cease and the clouds parted. Glimmering, Arch couldn't help but recall it all-... "An ocean? A mountain? Where tha' fuck are we.." If memory escaped them once?! Who was to say it wouldn't again.

Billowing from the mountaintop, however..

An avalanche.

With snow tumbling down the mountain, a hand raised to create a barrier with gravity-- Alas, it was fruitless-... Again

Crushed and broken beneath tonnes of frost? Arch's eyes fluttered as pain surged and life appeared to fleeting. Can't die like this... Wasn't experiencing what felt like death enough the first time?
(Arch)
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 The battle waged, her will against that of the creatures.. It wielded the exact same elements as she, and god forbid it was stronger, it took everything she had just to keep the worst of it's attacks at bay.

Ice colliding with ice, stone meeting stone, she did all in her power to match the strength of their opponent but she could truly not.

...Though together they would prevail, she slams her fists into the frigid earth, ice and stone erupting to ensnare it's feet as Dun and Arch provide distractions.. Opening the way for Sparrow to deliver yet another final blow.

The weather shifts, that snow she had been unable to even budge stopping entirely at the things death. Suddenly memories flood her mind as she spots the glimmer atop the mountain, the serpent at sea, then suddenly she was swallowed as an avalanche was forced upon her no matter what magics she wielded.

To say it was pleasant was as far from the truth as one could get, her body feeling the sensation of being crushed, even if it was entirely mental only.. and once more it all faded to black.
(Khione)
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 Though his memories remain loose and jumbled, the effort moving forward was nigh burned into his very spirit. He'd been a martial artist for over a hundred years now, and something as simple as amnesia wasn't gonna keep him from a good, bare knuckled scrap.

Each concussive kick and blow, zips in and out of the range of the lumbering titan of fur, horns, and frigid absolution would wither it down the same as his entropic time magic, and before long his young nephew was at the fore of the glorious battle, blade brandished and ready to cut the yeti asunder in two.

Truly, he was the hero of the story. Perhaps, then, this was exactly what he needed.

As the sky cleared, the heights of the great peak of Uraheim were suddenly within view. Without having moved a foot, their goal....it certainly felt like their goal, was in their grasp!

Until the psychological trauma from having died from drowning beginning to return to his memory, plaguing Task as he clasped his head tightly with pain. The frigid oblivion, the water in his non-existent lungs, it was near as if he felt he must vomit, but had no mouth.

Yet....with memories blurred and faded, the sight of a scrappy youth with scabs on his knees standing down bullies with his bare hands....the vision looked oh so familiar....and yet Task's spirit remained frozen.

Until the young boy walked up, looked the old man in the eyes, and flashed a missing toothed grin.

"Don't worry about me, I'm here to help! Someone's gotta."

-
Those weren't a boy's words. They were his own. One who fought blindly for what was right, long before he'd lost his eyes.

And though the fragment was gone as soon as it appeared, in that moment...

He felt hope. A warmth in his bosom, that true heroes still existed in spite of how far he'd fallen.

So entranced by this warmth, Dun barely noticed when tons of snow slammed down upon his smiling form, crushing him with audible snapping sounds into raw, purified clown dust.

That's life, as funny as it may seem.
(Dun Task)
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 The very earth beneath their feet seemed to move against them, that mixed with the angry creatures mastery over ice, proved to make this fight just that little bit more difficult.

Yet, despite that they managed to prevail.

With a rather obvious aid from the drakanite, Sparrow's body would once more find itself bursting at the seams with light, as he burst through the snow, moving at a near blinding speed, as his family's claymore moved to swing.

Once more, would spectral hands find themselves guiding Sparrow's blade, and yet... This time it wasn't a lone set of hands guiding him. The feintest sign of an apparition could be seen hovering behind the novice swordsman, seemingly guiding his actions.

Something was aiding Sparrow, and yet he seemed entirely unaware of it.

Starburn, which now shone so brightly with his own light swung, and with the very same ease that the great blade cleaved through the sea creatures neck, wouldthe Yeti find itself cleaved in two.

However, unlike the pervious time, there would be no rainbow. Just a singular line of his light, that seemingly refused to fade away. Linger, and glowing brighter, and brighter.

Not that it would truly matter.

Mere moments later, had the mountain decided that it too had enough of their crap, and a horrible avalanche would descend upon them. A barrier of holy magic formed as quickly as he could manage it, and yet it wasn't enough. Cracks formed in the shell, and almost as soon as it had been summoned, had it been shattered.

Consumed by snow, Sparrow can do naught by close his eyes as everything fades away around him.

Though something about all of this seemed... Eerily familiar.
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 {NARRATION} You awaken lain flat across a hard, warm surface- eyes cast skywards, peering into gray brick. There is no sound that reaches your ears, no sensation other than the dull brick above and the heat pressed to your back.

Your mind begins to clear, and you stand- eyes able to now rove over the vastness that surrounds you. At your feet, dull brickwork, ancient in its construction- around you stretches out the endless sky. Looking down from this peak, you are atop a snowy mountain- far, far below you a tranquil ocean. You are able to see what seems as if forever in all directions, yet all that appears is that ceaseless sea. Within the center of this mountain shrine stands a simple stone lantern, within which lies a burning blue flame- a flame which seems to evoke feelings of abandonment, betrayal, solitude- intensified by being so utterly alone.

But you are not alone. Around you stand several indistinct figures- amorphous masses of various colours. As you wake further and further from sleep, their shapes come into form.

Their figures- faces- forms appear familiar- as if you should know them, and yet you are unable to place a name to each and all. It is certain that you know one another- the names as if just on the tip of one’s tongue, yet unreachable- as are all things known outside this realm.

Despite this, all are aware of four truths- that you are companions, that you have come to this mountain shrine with purpose, that this has happened before, and that this is different.

Yet what purpose may be found this far above the world- and why does this feel so familiar?

 Vermillion eyes open towards the sky, the warmth of the stone below her oddly disturbing.. but so were all sources of heat if she were being honest. She rolls to her feet, trying to regain her bearings.. Masonry at her feet, but little else.

Atop a high peak she could see the oceans below, see the mountainside she didn't remember climbing.. Where was she exactly..? Turning to look she spots something new, some sort of small shrine, a lantern that toyed with her emotions.. Feelings she knew couldn't be real, she wasn't alone was she?

She spots them then, her friends, companions... were they her friends..? They were here together surely? Yes, she was sure of that much.

She wanted to try to use her magic for some assistance, but some deja vu filled part of herself said it would be fruitless.. "...Are we here for that..?" She asks with a raised brow, gesturing towards it.

It was after all the only thing present besides themselves.
(Khione)
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 This... This had happened before.

Him waking up to colorless forms, unable to piece together who they were, even after their shapes became more solid, and features could be seen. His companions remained a mystery.

As did his purpose here.

"What a strange group we are..."

Those emerald eyes flickered away from his group for a moment, glancing off the top of the mountain, down towards the near endless ocean. Thankfully Sparrow didn't have a horrible fear of heights, because if he did?

Well he'd be rather terrified right now.

Though as Khione spoke up, Sparrows attention flickered over towards the stone lantern. Something about it seemed off. Sparrow could practically feel the negative emotions pouring out from it.

"I... I think so?"

Seeing as it was the only thing currently up on the mountain, it was a rather fair guess.
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 With a start, the courier's eyes shot open, the man's breathing as ragged and panicked. Chest clutched, but . . . Arch couldn't recall why. What terrified him? What could've inspire such panic?

The man's gaze roamed and erratically flicked about, as his mind began to clear. This time, it'd be dull and ancient brickwork-- Below was a tranquil, yet horrifying familiar ocean.

"Not even a boat in sight." Endless.

Why was he here?

Why'd everything feel so-... hazy? Deja-vu-like.

Catching his curiosity was the flickering blue flame- one that evoked feelings that the cowboy was far too intimate with! These people around them... companions?

He closed his eyes, why can't his magic over time shine illumination over this question-...

This time though? "Yes.. we must be." Edging closer to the lantern- even if it messed with his mental state-...

Solitude, abandonment, betrayal?

How was this any different of a feeling, then Arch was adjusted to..?


(Arch)
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[23:17] Dun would slowly come to consciousness against the warm, hard stone, his sciatica being eased by the sheer flatness of the surface. Yet, as if woken from a cozy doze and not allowed to fall back into oblivious slumber, the timeless jester would rub his eyes as he slowly rose from the ground to turn about.

The great mountainous peak, the distant, endless ocean below, the warmth and cold in equal measures far beyond and above thought or feeling....this whole experience seemed to culminate into less an expedition than it was an introspective, spiritual journey.

Well, Task would have looked at it like that if he had his memories. But free of them, he could only gaze in wonder at the sights as he smiled widely, his consciousness feeling genuinely expanded from the experiences so far.

They were distinct, and yet familiar, nigh the same. Like pushing a great snowball uphill....only to realize they were walking straight the whole time on a level surface.

"I...feel as if we know each other....we are not alone. And..."

Dun would point at the lantern.

"One way....or another....that is the path forward. We can climb....no higher."
(Dun Task)
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 {NARRATION} Time passes amidst discussion, and the shrine remains tranquil.

Then it is not.

In the center of the shrine, the blue flame flares high- so high as to lick at the roof of the shrine, so wide as to force those close to step backwards to evade being scorched. All would, for but a brief moment, be sent spiralling downwards into the utter depths of loneliness- solitude- abandonment- so truly convinced they are alone-

-which passes immediately afterwards. Within the inferno now stood within the shrine, it is as if there is a grinning face- eyes and mouth of pure, jagged white- blending easily within the blues and purples of that which it inhabits.

Yet as the moments pass, that face assumes greater clarity- the soaring blaze taking on a shape far more humanoid than afore. A figure of flames, neither man nor woman- yet at the same time, both. In a voice distinctly feminine- and distinctly masculine, yet never quite androgynous, it speaks. You feel like you are able to trust this warmth, whatever it is.

“Welcome to our shrine, wayward travellers. It is doubtful you have enjoyed the journey. Our truest apologies- you are certainly fatigued. Please, sit and rest. Allow your worries to fade...you are not alone...”

The figure draws forth- seemingly towards each at once, warmth drawing closer with its approach. As it moves closer, their perception of their companions would dim- it would become harder to focus upon them- their gaze locked to the white of the flaming figure, their body frozen in place.

“We may address your purpose from being here soon. It would not do to be a...poor...host, of course…”

The flames draw closer now, beginning to sear at their flesh- the warmth closing around them so snugly...their companions now gone from vision, gaze taken entirely by the glimmering flames entrapping them…

A glimmering which all recognize in a sudden moment of prescience. The curtain is raised from their eyes- the once warm flames encaging them revealed for harsh chill- dredging them in evocations of solitude. As the truth is revealed, their bodies once more respond to their commands- perception showing the scene for its truth.

Within the center remains that changing figure, and surrounding them all great curtains of fires both blue and purple- drawing closer around them with each passing moment, so close to threatening to incinerate them. The figure of flames within the center has a wickedly sadistic grin upon its face as it prepares to embrace them, each and all, in fires- burning them to death, alone.

The inferno shows no signs knowing that its ruse has been unveiled- or stopping. As such, unless action is taken, it is likely there would be consequences- consequences that could go so far as death.

Yet when action is taken, though there may be a moment of surprise- it is certain the blaze would lash out in rage.

There was an explosion of azure flame, the Dragon practically leaping backwards from the heat.. The face and body of something forming, was that what they were here to see..? The androgynous but not voice carrying like a Siren's call.

Our shrine it said, the thing coming closer was incredibly uncomfortable for her.. the bright light transfixing her in place as suddenly the flames become cold.

Much better, as ironic as it was.

It kept coming, as if it didn't realize that something had changed.. and perhaps it didn't. Not yet at least.

Though it was about to.

She knew she wasn't alone, she had a wife who loved her, and a city she was meant to protect.. How many had died to such a trap..? Were her allies about to let it sear them to death, did they break free..?

She wasn't sure yet, but she only knew of one thing she could do to try and save them.

Though she could only hope it would work.

With a flick of her wrist her whip snaps forth, the ground beneath them shattering and exploding into the air everywhere that weapon passed.. Spikes of ice erupting from the edge of her weapon, a barrage of stone and cold that was surely enough to ensure they were all free. "...If this is what we came for, I'm starting to think we should rethink our life choices.." Was that it though.>? Or was it something hidden here..?

The lantern itself? Only time would tell most likely.
(Khione)
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Dun would find himself nigh possessed by a sense of comforting warmth, as if the being before him offered the mother's and father's love he'd sorely lacked in his own youth. He wasn't alone, they were here to help. To let him rest after their long, long journey.

And it had been long, hadn't it? His memories were hazy, and yet he was near certain that it had been long. Cold. Or....had it been? It was familiar, and yet it wasn't. He wasn't alone, but...

It wasn't because of the lantern, was it?

Though these strangers beside him were blurry, uncertain, they had stood by him in this struggle. They'd worked together without knowing each other, and made it this far....hadn't they?

It was in that moment the pleasant warmth's ruse was lifted, the revelation of the journey, the meaning of companionship, a nigh epiphany for the suddenly aware Task as he leaped back with his arms raised before him with blackened energy.

So, this was it, huh?

"I don't....know who any of you are. But....we've not....come this far....to die now. As long as....we can move."

Dun would raise his finger pistol to the flame.

"We can fight."

A bolt of condensed, surging energy would head directly towards the blaze.
(Dun Task)
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 Unusual, to increase the utter sense of Deja-Vu?! From within the inferno came a burning figure- "Fatigued? Most certainly but-..." Warmth drew closer, an intense flame.

Much as Arch wanted to tip his hat, take the lantern and end this miserable trek-...? The figure wouldn't have that- It felt like the cowpoke's flesh was searing-

The fiber's of his cloak began to singe.

With incineration drawing nearer? Action was required, Arch struggled to move a muscle for a time-- Without breaking free? Who'd deliver all those letters-...

Would the man ever get his shot at redemption? To push aside selfish? Slowly, control was reestablished.

This was the end of their journey--

"It'd better be worth all this bullshit-..."

Drawing and firing within the same breath, a salvo of time-infused mana surged forward


(Arch)
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 The summit of the mountain was... Rather peaceful.

Until it wasn't.

That lantern... While at first it seemed to be simply there to ooze out some negative emotions, it's purpose was clearly far more grand than that. Those flames burst forth from the lantern. Which prompts the man to instinctively take a few steps back.

Except well, that didn't truly save him. That horrible feeling of loneliness truly sunk in. In truth, this wasn't a foreign feeling for the Queen. Since he had arrived in Theria had he felt truly alone.

Despite his Uncle's words of reassurance that they were his people... They weren't. Not yet anyways.

Though he wasn't truly alone. The specter that lurked behind him, was proof enough of that.

Yet, a voice would breach through that. Emerald eyes moved to lock onto the seemingly genderless form before him. Which... For whatever reason, reminded him of his Husband when they were younger.

Not in appearance, but the lack of certainty over their gender.

Sparrow's mouth opens to say something in response, but instead he simply shuts it instead. The warmth that followed their approach was a reprieve from that rather foul climate of the mountain top. Though those flames would move to envelope him, searing away at him, until...

Everything faded away again.

Yet, once again his vision would be returned to him, as their true enemy made it's presence known.

It wouldn't be Sparrow's hand that reached back to grab Starburn this time, no... The blade simply found it's way into his hands, guided by the being that lingered oh so close to his back. The blade that had been so clumsily wielded before, now aimed to strike with all the confidence the Queen could muster.

Sparrow's light would have to be enough to combat this raging inferno.

Well, not just his light. The combined effort of his light, and those that had ventured with him would be enough. Even if he didn't know who they were.

"This ends here..."

Whatever this even was.
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 {NARRATION} As its prey reveal its trick has been realized, the figure lets out a horrible howl of displeasure. The flames burst out from the sides of the mountaintop shrine, the chill seeming to seep deep into their bodies…

Yet as they come together, that chill seems to be blunted. With a snarl, the flames lash out with venomous tone.

“So simple would it have been to accept my release. So comforting, so calm. It’s so cold out there, so cold to be alone. But I’d’ve been with you forever, and ever, and ever…”

The visage within the fire had become a frown- a truly sad face- yet so suddenly does it become sickening grin.

“So simple will it be to make you accept my release, too! It’ll be so comforting, so calm- so warm, warm, warm...we’ll be together forever……”

A myriad of- dozens, and dozens. Perhaps hundreds of faces cloud the flames. All wildly grinning or deeply frowning.

“We’ll ALL BE TOGETHER FOREVER.”

The faces vanish, and the flames surge inwards.
The shrine becomes a whirl of inferno. The flames bear the unmistakeable chill of deep frost, yet sear as hot as the most ruthless fires- simultaneously. It’s a pain unlike aught which all present save Dun have felt afore- even though he knows not why he recognizes it.

Despite having such prior experiences, he is not spared the brunt of the searing pain- perhaps, that recollection having momentarily distracted him, as in the heat of the combat, the old man…

...tripped into a trail of fire, which is the final blow that disabled him. Arch and Sparrow are afforded far more dignified exits, pierced through by swearing bolts of plasma, roasted by blasts of fire and frozen by hail of ice.

Khione, even with her aptitude within ice is hard-pressed- yet, there is one thing which allows her an opening. One crucial factor which the blazing frost has not.

Companions. In a moment where the conglomeration’s focus lies elsewhere- searching for the aged wizard within its own heat, the drakanite is afforded an opening to strike.

Her arms spread apart, that frosty chill that permeates the inferno- the bitter feelings of isolation, loss, abandonment…she turns back upon themselves. The amalgam freezes, eyes snapping towards Khione, and charges for her…

And yet it is too late. Within a flash, the flames erupt inwards, towards the lantern within the center- all present swear there are dozens, hundreds, thousands of screams as they swirl towards the center. A second flash, and…

The flames are gone. The stone lantern set within the center of the shrine contains only smoldered ash and embers, now- suddenly blow away by a harsh gust of wind, scattered to rest within the realm. As they are blown away, a gem set within the center of the lantern draws all’s gaze nigh-on instantly. It glimmers- reminiscent of the glimmering that allowed all freedom from the mad flames.

In a sudden rush, all comes to light- all that has occurred within this realm prior, and all that had occurred before it. The pain of death, having occurred twice afore- those conflicts which had led them to this shrine, unbeknownst to them.

Their purpose for being within this realm, and all else. It’s as if the flames they had extinguished had been suppressing all that they had known- all that they should have known, and all that they had learned.

Yet such truths do not lend to how they intend to achieve their goals…


 Dun was very, very familiar with being set on fire. Though his memory was absent, his very skin, nerves, and spirit had remembered. It was perhaps this distraction, this absolute pang of sudden, deep, and painful nostalgia that distracted him in the heated intensity of battle. The frozen fire lapped over his form over and over again, but his master of the armament was absolute, he could harden his body by nigh instinct at this point.

And yet, as he paced forth with a stumble, he collapsed into the flames, rolling upon the ground in a pile of freezing hot inferno as Khione put forth her best to finish the great quest of the mind and soul once and for all. Though pain wracked through him, there was rejoice as well.

As it all came flowing back in the crescendo.

He had put on a show, made a circus, and she had seized victory brightly from the depths of danger and despair. It was a wondrous thing.

Slowly, as the elder of the Fireblooded's psyche became overwhelmed with the sudden influx of memory. The deaths he'd suffered, the hope, the reason they were all here...

And the realization that no strangers had joined him on this voyage. They'd fought together as companions without even remembering why.

Slowly, steadily, the ashen Task would approach the altar as he clutched his heart, sockets scanning over the shattered lantern with sudden dismay as he realized that, for all that they had come for, perhaps they had destroyed that which he sought?

It was a terrible thing to comprehend, and yet...

No, there....it must be. The elder would harden and blacken his hand with reinforced mana before slowly, steadily, and with the aid of time magic, precisely, he would attempt to clasp the frozen gem. This....core fabric of the realm of water.

"If I explode, Sparrow can have my shoes, Arch my pants, and Khione my yam collection."
(Dun Task)
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 The flames were as contradictory as the rest of this place, the reverse-heat familiar and yet not. Though one by one they would slowly begin to fall, Sparrow and Arch to intense streaks of plasma that nearly had shattered her own scales...

Once more she had been hard pressed to her limits and some part of her was frustrated, and she couldn't explain why, as though there was some deep sense of somehow she had failed somewhere else.. not remembering the journey here.

She only knew she had something to make right, the things words echoing in her ears as the voice of the Dragon rang out, and where her body laid a shimmering blue ribbon glowed from it's place tied to her horn. "You misunderstand.. You speak of the cold as if you understand it.. but you and I have never met." Vermillion eyes ignite as her arms spread, the ire of the Dragon reaching it's peak as all of it was seized.

Every ounce of snow, ice, hail, sleet, and everything that was tied to it stopped.. It was hers, it had always been hers, she had just been too stupid to claim it. "I am the cold." If the being was sentient entirely it would feel it, all of those emotions forced back upon it and more.. that slowly creeping feeling of death that comes with the cold.

The kind that forced trees to explode, forced lakes to turn solid, the kind that humanity still feared to this day... Then in a flash, it was all gone. The lantern only carrying a gem sitting within, the ashes carried on the wind..

Slowly her memories return, and she looks them all over once more.. Names finally reaching her tongue.. Peering over at how injured they all were she seemed to be in the best of states, and so she would do what she could to aid Sparrow... He likely appeared to be in the worst of shape.
(Khione)
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The battle violently raged-- Oh, they were a temptress, how easy it'd be to just-.. let go and embrace the family. But that wasn't an option. Guided and spurned on by the compatriots and friends who ventured, endured alongside him-...

Well, maybe, he wasn't ever truly alone.

Arch's entire focus had shifted, it wasn't a fervid and unwise clash against flame manifested-- But a calculated utilization of his transcendence over time itself, while an avenue he hasn't come close to refining.

This focus was aiding Arch, outcomes weren't as hazy and uncontrollable. Faint glimpses guided his actions. Foreseeing every possibility and outcome within the all-consuming whirlwind of flame wasn't a possibility, ruthless flame spouted from every corner. No matter how often the courier's predications came to fruition- Alas, it wasn't enough.

He wasn't ready.

Blasted aside by the bitter cold, roasting flames and plasma, the blearly-eyed cowboy looked onto the Altar..

Observing, as his elder, his teacher and mentor clutched the frozen gem-.. "Don't know where those have been-.." Hazel eyes drifted downward, slowly, beginning to crawl along the ground.

The damage he'd sustain?

Arch wasn't even certain of, yet.
(Arch)
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 With Starburn gripped tightly within his palms, the former High Keeper would rush into the fray. Barriers of holy magic would serve to lesson the intense heat that radiated from the being. Yet, that wouldn't be enough. No sooner had the fight started, had cracks started to form all along that shield of his.

Yet, even as it threatened to collapse all around him, Sparrow rushed headfirst into danger. Waves of holy magic would be sent soaring from his claymore, crashing into the embodiment of flame.

Those ethereal hands that lurked around his arms, continued to guide him. The specter never ceasing from his side, always present, always helping his blade meet it's desired target.

Whatever was aiding him, Sparrow would need to thank later. Provided he could even thank... Whatever it was that was aiding him. Quite frankly, Sparrow had no idea what it was, nor should he truly be worrying about it as of this moment.

They were in the midst of battle.

No sooner had Dun slipped on something, causing him to stumble into flames, had a bolt of plasma crashed into his frame, followed by a torrent of flames, and the freezing cold hail.

He couldn't stand much longer, but... His pain served a purpose. It provided the necessary distraction for Khione to finish it off. How? Well, everything had begun to fade to black for Sparrow, so he wasn't entirely sure, but...

Well he had faith in his companions.

Yet, he wasn't out of it for long. A strange sudden rush comes over the man, as everything that he had forgotten had returned to him. Whatever this being of flame was... It was clearly the cause of their lapse of memory, and with it gone, their minds were free of it's influence.

Injured, and not truly able to move without a little assistance, Sparrow would pull out an elixir from his bag, downing it's contents before nodding contently to himself, as a rush of relief courses across him.

Though as Dun speaks up?

"Uncle... Please. Please, be careful."

All he could do now is hope, and pray-, and oh hey. Khoine is giving him a another elixir! Was he going to turn it down? Of course not. "Thank you..." He'd mutter to the drakanite, before bringing the vial towards his lips, downing it similarly to the first one.
(Sparrow cos Queen)
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 {NARRATION} You awaken resting against that which you had fallen asleep on- your eyes opening groggily. Sounds reach your ears unabated, those of your companions awakening from similarly tired sleep.

Your mind begins to clear, and you’re able to stand. Your gaze roves around the room, alighting upon familiar faces, familiar surrounds. You feel at peace, though you know not why- you feel the ephemeral remnants of your drug-induced dreams slipping away afore you are able to truly recall their details.

Despite this, all eyes are drawn towards the center of the room- within which lies a large blue gem, glimmering within the light. It emanates a chill, and is slightly frosted over- ice which seems unmeltable. It seems as if it had just...shown up. Perhaps someone had come in and left it while all present were asleep.
] {Item} You picked up Gem Of Frost.
 ** AvaDM has inflicted an injury upon Dun Task. ("Cold Hearted", "The elderly wizard Dun has becomed cold-hearted. Literally. His heart is wrapped around in a shroud of malignant ice magic, slowing the crucial muscle- and gradually freezing it solid, though such would take decades upon decades to kill him.", "Permanent", "Severity: MINOR (-5 VIT)") **