Meeting the Dragon

[17:20] {NARRATION} The Northern Mountains of Esshar holds within it paths less traveled by far for many years. Rumors of powerful monsters and beasties inhabiting these areas, drive caravans from using them out of fear alone, making the assumption of the lurking threats ever more immement.

It mattered little to this daring group of magi and demon alike working together to uncover the past and follow a lead that they believed would lead them to meet a Dragon!

In their travels, the group would find themselves scaling hillside and skipping along rocks over a riverbed alike moving forward. Through dense brush of forest then across great lengths of plateau. The wondrous sights of Esshar sat below in all its glory, seemingly at peace from afar.

Yet there was more danger up here than they’d bargain for from the beginning!

Atop this lengthy plateau full of tall grass was the home of a pack of dire wolves. Practical observations would point to their faint tracks on the ground below. It was too late for the group to think about turning back now. Aside from being days into their exploration, the sky’s gave way to a shadow in the clouds. What would be on display for them above was a large form with beating wings soaring due further north-east, but that’s where the Wolf tracks directed them as well. It seemed all signs pointed to follow them should they want to investigate!
[17:25] How quaint..

For while the expected the travel to be harsh, it isn't something that would put him off too much- perhaps, it is simply a consequence of his demonic resilience, or perhaps the stamina born to the darker magics, to the curse of First Supreme Witch, and yet.. he finds himself hardly exhausted at all.

And even if he does feel slightest fatigue, the shadows are quick to carry him.

Yet, when he sees the gigantic form in the skies, far off with its wings beating.. there's only a smile- after all, it would only mean that they don't have to spend whole days, or even weeks, trying to search for the creature.. and instead, the lead that they initially had upon it was actually correct.

"Good. We won't have to waste time."

The presence of direwolves hardly concerns the demon, for he was already fully aware this area would likely frequent beasts of different kinds.. and certainly they could be dangerous. Though.. there's but one word spoken.

"We should move."

"No point beating around the bush and staying around here."
(Senevál)
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[17:26] The arduous task of scaling the many mountain ranges that served as a natural barrier to their goal was complete. Now, they had to track down the ancient being that roamed the skies of northern Esshar. They were properly equipped for the expedition, warm attired and food to keep them going for at least a week.

"Mmm."

Lavinia hadn't foregone her Draconic form. No, if anything it was useful for some decent scouting thanks to her large, robust pair of wings. Though the downside was how easily they got cold! One had to build some willpower somehow.

The drakanite pointed at the direction where the mystical figure in the dark skies was flying. North-east. There was no reason to go any other way, even if danger was very clearly looming nearby. Though for some extra precautions, Lavinia hopped off the ground and utilized her wings to have some scouting advantage.

"You're right, Mister Seneval. No point gettin' reluctant over what weknew would be waitin' for us."
(Lavinia Walters)
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[17:29] From the glade of Moonfall all the way to the north of Osrona, Halidrell had found herself a rather uncanny companionship in a multitude of strangers, save, Seneval and Lavinia. Nevertheless, the trek into the cold mountains in the far north of Esshar would ultimately prove fruitful, as there was promise of meeting an ancient dragon. As such, her journey was plotted.

The plateaus to the east of Osrona and north of Moonfall were a landscape Halidrell herself had not yet visited much -- thus taking the opportunity to properly learn the lay of the land as they went. The fields of gras, forests filled with life and the somewhat difficult to traverse hillscapes did not shy Halidrell away from satiating her curiosity.

Her heritage would give reason to think she is no stranger to travels, and as such the trek into the mountains did not cause her great fatigue. If anything, she would seem rather chipper, as it were in contrast of her stay in Moonfall, which has been for the mostpart stationary.

It wouldn't take much to ignore the direwolves, as in her eyes it were but a pack of mutts, yet the shadow blotting out the sun for just a moment caught her eye.

She opts to remain silent, and follow the party.
(Halidrell)
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[17:29] Tagging along the rough and ragged region of the plateau's searing the sky, the ice mage gazes into the darkened azure to bear witness to the encroaching encounter. This wasn't the first time he had travelled in such a fashion, out into the mountains, to face a devestating strength. Of course, this was hopefully not his last, either.

A'Neje lurches over his staff, looking back over to the trail before the group.

"A familiar track... They remind me of the wolves that make their home in the Vale. I trust we may meet with a pack of them some time soon if we continue. Though, it makes me wonder of the company this dragon keeps..."

Idle minds leave for idle feet. He continues moving on towards their destination, eager for what he may meet with.
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[17:29] As the journey up the mountains Ryu's arms grew chilly. She matched behind the group wondering when they would encounter the dragon! She knew they would find one with this many people looking around right? The rocky cliffs proved difficult to climb up, the dense forest not so much. She stopped as they made it to a clearing to look at some tracks beneath her feet, dire wolves.

"Are we there y-"

She was interrupted by the distance torrent of wind which directed her eyes up above, a figure with great wings beating far ahead of them. She began to run toward that direction, her little sandals copying the tracks the wolves had left behind like some game.

"I see it!"
(Ryu )
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[17:29] Travelling all the way from Moonfall, Abaddon followed in suit through tall grass, snowy terrain and dark sky. It wasn't much of a problem, seeing as how the residents of Esshar went through such conditions daily.

Setting upon the rock beneath him, he stayed silent, ever observant.

After each mountain, there was another that peaked over. Even if he didn't speak, it was agreeable that they shouldn't stick around for mere wolves for the time being, since their target was within sight.

Entranced, he would lock his visage with the beauty before him.
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[17:34] {NARRATION} It wouldn’t be long, about a few hours, until the tracks led the group to a clearing of boulders used to scale the cliffside onto higher grounds. Suddenly a boasting howl bellowed their vicinity as those dire wolves made their presence known. By the dozens, these ferocious canines climbed atop the boulders and growled down to those trespassing their territory.

Hidden within the tall grass surrounding them, they moved without restriction. The swishing sounds of the brush and pattern of their paws encircled the group. Quick decisions would be required as they were caught in the pack’s ambush!

The wolves all hopped down from the boulders to join the rest and then from the grass they jumped up to pounce. Look out!
[17:37] Hours upon hours.

In truth, this was perhaps the least enticing part for Senevál.. for if he had it his way, they would simply jump straight into action and get to the Dragon as soon as possible- but he understands that they're elusive creatures, often unable to be found so easily. At least, not yet..

And instead, with the howl heard, he already knows what would commence.

"Ah.. first adversary."

"Mere dogs. Though, I suppose they could make for an interesting feast.. what do you think, Halidrell?"

A single glance is given to another familiar demon, and yet.. already he finds himself steadily being coated in the shadows, the glimmer of crimson in his eye signifying the preparation of the ascended Demon. Here, it becomes rather evident..

They would not leave without a fight. But would he even have it any other way? Of course not..

"Come, beasts."

"You better have tasteful flesh."
(Senevál)
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[17:37] Her legs stiffen and then she jumps back.

Wolves, a pack of them had descended from the mountain sides. She looked to the group noticing a few had already drawn their weapons and had mana taking form into a plethora of unique aura's.

The pink storm tosses her dress aside and then takes a low stance, she was ready to grapple.

"Let's go puppies!"
(Ryu )
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[17:37] Halidrell's gaze is forced to the dire wolves who had seemingly ambushed them. The howl rings throughout the canyon and rings true, alarming the party of their presence and as such, Halidrell hops back, instinctively looking for ways to gain the advantage.

She sticks close to Seneval, her own known ally as a part of said stratagem, placing her back in the direction of his in order to not get flanked by the wolves, who will certainly utilize their pack tactics to surround their prey and hope to kill them.

All in all, she does not fear the endeavor and prepares for combat, reaching for her weapon which she grips in hand. Soon, her very own shadow creeps upwards as occultic energies begin to seep from her person, merging with the shadow and then envelop her in a coat of shadows, which will protect her and grand her power.

"Great." she'd mutter, her gaze for the moment going towards her allies, to see their positioning.

"Not really..Seneval -- I don't like mutt."

She then smirks.

"Perhaps we'll take them as trophies instead."
(Halidrell)
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[17:38] "And here they come."

Neje made a good assessment and hopefully his knowledge would be accurate enough to give them an edge should they attack. And, obviously, they did. But Lavinia was ready, hence her rather collected tone when noticing the arrival of the beasts.

"Let's do this quick. We still got a looong way to go."

Lavinia stayed in the air, weapon ready to deliver some PAIN to these silly pups. A dark miasma coated the girl's arms and wings, seemingly to enhance her being for the upcoming battle!
(Lavinia Walters)
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[17:39] The ears under his hood twitched to life. He could hear and recognize it well enough... The hunters have become the quarry!

A stamp of his magical staff as he stopped in place, and a torrent of cold winds lapped against his toga. The temperature shifted in his presence then, as the sparkling crystals of ice melted into brief embers originating from his palm.

"Our first trial, then. To test our worth, we will rend any that stand between us and the dragon with sharpened frost and destructive flame!"

A'Neje proclaims his intent proudly to the wolven attackers, ready as the rest of them.
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[17:40] The sound irritated Abaddon greatly. Beckoning howls came to pass from their vocals, speaking words, although not saying anything. It was clear that the group came to their turf, and it infuriated them.

However, it wasn't much of a problem. Pulling his scarf upwards, he would cover his mouth, before bending his knees over to procure himself into a mediocre stance.

"They stink."
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[17:47] Weird Boar Wolf Pack Gang says, "grr...."
[18:18] {NARRATION} They came. They swarmed. The wolves were defeated!...but not after a arduous battle on both sides.

Seneval found himself swarmed by the wolves and gnawed on like a chew toy! He suffered flesh wounds from the canines teeth on most of his appendages.

Abaddon himself was dragged away by the larger alpha of the pack and slammed around while doing so. He was shaken around and jarred amidst the fight! Teeth ripped into his abdomen and tore skin and flesh away. He would come back likely irritated and the worst for wear.

A’Neje succumbed to the packs attunement over wind magic! The slicing winds he fought against left slashes on their dapper attire. They were turned into a poor man's pipedream of rag. Underneath he would feel the sting of the slices that pierced his frame.

Halidrell was met by a wolf that used advanced air magic and was shocked to her core. The lasting effects would make her twitch sporadically.

Lavinia would suffer the bellowing howl of the pack. From behind the cascade of a growling awoo reverberated their core and made their ears ring!

Ryu found her tail chomped down on by some of the pack and dragged her around. Comical really, thankfully the rest of the group saved her, but her tail was still ripped into!

It was still a damned quick and responsive defense on the groups part. The remnants of the dire wolves fleeting gave away the path forward up the cliffside in their wake to get away.

After a quick assessment of their conditions themselves, should the group desire to follow where their canine assailants fled they would learn the lands easier to travel.

As this motley crew ascended through the path used by the dire wolves, they left behind them the scars of battle on the land. Over time, the land would recover thankfully.
[18:23] Halidrell centered herself in the core of their companionship, in order to take the brief moment she would receive from the ravenous wolves to focus her magic down to both hands. She'd spin her web as the wolves advanced towards them, foam at the mouth, barking loudly in order to frighten their prey. Little did they know they were met with demons and witches, oh and … pseudo-dragons?

She darted both hands outward, throwing webbing towards the wolves spiked with her shadowy-magicks, doing so in order to halt their movement so the party could use that slight lag in the wolves' advance, to pre-emptively strike. Once all was said and done and her companions were engaged in combat, she followed.

She pursued Seneval in order to gain a ally during the battle, using Seneval's forward fighting to strike blows to the wolves once they were engaged with Seneval, striking them in their flanks.

She did not however expect that a very particular wolf would be able to use magic, causing her to misinterpret its ability and thus it's range of attack. He used a shockwave to send her flying into the side of a cliff's wall, shaking her down to her core.

She laid on the ground, the aftershock causing twitches due to her muscles being blown numb for the moment. However soon she would regain her stature and aim to finish the deed, going straight for the wolf in question.

Her blade struck true, cleaving off it's head, flopping to the ground with a trail of blood following. She spat, muttering;

"Despicable mutt."

She took a glance about, hoping to find out what had become of her allies. It seemed she had to put trust in others now as well, as it seemed she had found herself in a habitat with magical creatures.
(Halidrell)
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[18:24] Punches empowered by flames, shadows of unlit, corrupted mana flowing in the air. It was a spectacle to behold, a battle she was certainly not ready for.

She dashes in punching and swinging at anyone nearby, anyone, she wasn't trying to go down. Her little muscles were growing tired, her skin was visibly red from strain. Scales manifested temporarily to protect herself from the wolves. Yet, her tail was vulnerable. She turned around and hit the wolf in the head with a blazing elbow that burst into flames on impact.

While it was dazed she had time to back away, watching the wolves she fought get swept up in the swarm of spells casted by the others.
(Ryu )
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[18:25] Were these guardians?

It is the only thing that he could think of.. if only due to the fact that these wolves were most unusual for the fact that they were not only this powerful, but they wielded magic as well; while he finds himself dodging their hits time and time again, evading amidst the shadows and the defenses of the dark that he was capable of..

There's only so much that he can do.

If only because of the fact that there are so many.. for he might evade one, two, even three.. but with more wolves lunging upon him, he finds himself swiftly overwhelmed, the wolves gnawing upon his appendages- the pain doesn't seem to get at the Demon too much, if only because he's a creature inhuman on his own accord, and instead..

"Ahah.. we're playing this way?"

There's so much blood. As much as the pain seems to be something he can ignore for the most part, it's difficult to deny the damage that is already done to his body- yet, suddenly, Senevál sinks into ground, promptly vanishing into shadows. And where his form disappears..

There are blackened threads, sprawling across entirety of ground.

The wolves that were onto Senevál find themselves stuck on the webbing; even if it's temporary, it is still enough for Senevál to respond- for what emerges from the shadows could hardly be called anything human, anything normal.

It's a giant spider emerging, hissing out.

"My turn."

It lunges forth- fangs drawing into flesh of the nearest wolves, and the powerful eight arms used to rip and rend apart their flesh; using the fact that they're stuck, they're handled one at a time, the Occultic magic seeping into their very essence- so much so that they're drained entirely..

And only husks are left behind.
Their lifeforce, their strength - given to Senevál.

Eventually, there's a shift back- back to his normal self, yet now coated in blood and grime alike; he wipes upon his lips, satisfied with the feast that was had.

"Ah."

"Not exactly satisfying.. but it will have to do."
(Senevál)
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[18:26] The battle was smooth from the start, until the pack withdrew an unfathomable rage, capable of besting the group, however, unfortunately, Abaddon had been victim to consistent dragging, ravenous winds cutting not only his attire, but his skin.

Blood ran down his arms, legs, forehead; any external body part that could be named. Crimson rivers soaked the cobblestone beneath him like streams, dripping repeatedly amidst the pain he had succumbed to.

It hurt. In fact, it was devastatingly painful, and whilst this sort of injury wasn't new to the Demon, since he had underwent multiple battles with Osronian's that scarred him, it didn't mean he was used to it.

Flesh that once governed his body would shred, having the worst consequence within the Group. What he thought would be a walk in the park, soon turned into a massacre on Abaddon. Unlucky.

Gritting his teeth against one another, he would clutch his bloodied shoulder, spitting blood out.

"Fu..ck."
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[18:27] Lavinia just got awoo'd.

The fight was fierce, the pack mercilessly assaulting them and utilizing their affinity to the wind to get an edge on the otherwise powerful magis! Lavinia herself preferred to attack them head on, opting to crush them with her super stick.

But there were so many, and when congregating together, they could utilize the overwhelming Vacuum Howl to blast away the dutiful Drakanite. It was the ultimate Awoo, and she could barely hold her ground. Eventually, she'd have to take a knee.

"Shit . . . Didn't expect them t'put up an /actual/ fight."

Spitting away some blood from her nicked lip, Lavinia charged in again, going for a more hit-and-run tactic this time around to better assist her teammates. In the end, she'd deal with her fair share of beasts, though it seemed Ryu was doing quite well with a considerable kill count!

"Whew . . . Fuck. Fuuuck."

Letting herself fall backand sit her ass on a floor, she needed a breather. The intense awoo had left her body vibrating somewhat, the fluids in her seeming particularly rattled by the intense blast from the beasts. But, as she'd look around, she'd notice that while taking it quite hard, did not suffer nearly as much as some of her fellow adventurers.
(Lavinia Walters)
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[18:28] The ripping and tearing between whipping winds and slicing chill could only come to such a conclusion. While a large remnant of the pack had been pierced by frost and burned where they stood, plenty had still gotten their claws on the ice mage.

Deep slices into his figure through his new cloaks scatter A'Neje, and he could only allow himself to caution himself from getting too close to the terrifying foes. It would have been worse, had he not been wearing armor underneath the robe.

At the end, he was able to keep his footing, and at the end of the engagement, he found himself surrounded by a small group of frozen figures... At the sight of the wolf statues he had formed before him, it seemed the pack had fled.

He glances down at himself... He was feeling lucky to have survived so well, and he would have to endure the stinging sensations across his body.

"It seems we have succeeded... relatively. Let's gather ourselves before we continue."
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[18:28] {NARRATION} Following the paths along the rocky surfaces up along the side of the cliff, the group would notice some vague differences in some rocks. They were carved and on their faces held designs that mankind were capable of creating. Some of these depicted the half shifting form of Drakanites and besides them their larger counterparts. These were only some of the remnants of some ruins toppled over the edge.

As they climbed higher and made it over the edge, they may stop in awe as some structures of ruins were still erect before them. A few were still whole buildings, of course in their decrepit state. IT would be unwise for them to enter some of these buildings, but the hearts of adventurers truly wished to uncover all mysteries, did it not?

It was up to each of them to decide how they would explore the ruins in front of them. A shack to their left built of wood and creaking with just a gust of wind. Should some look to their right they would find the stone masonry of a parthenon. Within was the statue of Ryujin, the creator of the Drakanite race!
[18:28] Ryu says, "My butt hurt."
[18:29] Halidrell says, "Toss a coin."
[18:32] Bruised, injured, and nearly ready to hurl. The young drakenite marches along with the group, if there was anything to speed up maturity, it was this. She felt a new sense swelling within her, it was more like a primal instinct but she felt it. Survival.

"Let's go for the dragon right nowwww!"

However, she was as good as dead if she went alone, it was likely that she'd simply follow whoever made the call. She would die out here and that sank into her mind fairly quickly.

Yet her smile persisted.
(Ryu )
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[18:33] To the left, the virgin shack. To the right, the chad worship spot. The choice was pretty clear and Lavinia would make her choice clear to the group.

"Goin' to the right. Look at that STATUE. I've never SEEN anythin' like it!"

Excited, she shrugged off the leftovers of the awoo blast that reverberated from her body and pointed to the best direction possible. And Ryu so happened to be just as adamant on this decision as Lavinia.

"Y'heard the Pink Storm! Leggo!"
(Lavinia Walters)
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[18:33] "Hm, hm.."

Cleansing himself during the process of exploration, he merely looks at the options present before them, though.. already does he understand but one thing - the shadows were on his side, and this could be solved with the trickery, albeit, at least partially. When he considers this, there's one idea.

"Ah, no need.."

"Let us see if something of my own returns, yes?"

Already Senevál spurns out shadowy spiders from his hands, tied to his hands via blackened threads on the fingertips- the shadowy spiders are made to go on and scout ahead, creatures of magic summoned to check ahead.

"These can speak to me, if they've seen anything.." There's but a smile on his face, but..

"Go, go little ones.. do tell me if you see anything, hm?"

And if they do not return - then there's clearly danger ahead. Still.. as far as the spiders made out of shadows walk, the blackened threads lead towards them.

A clever trick to 'track back' the path they make, so that they can follow, provided the path is found.
(Senevál)
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[18:33] Lavinia Walters says, "Oh, oh! Good thinkin' Mister Seneval."
[18:34] Senevál says, "Of course."
[18:35] Battered, adorning his now tattered equipment, the Demon had luckily just scraped an experience with uncertain death. To at least stop the bleeding for now, he would tear a piece of cloth from his shawl, dampening it on the wounds that had proven to disturb his movement.

And as such, he continued further, until they met with the Temple of Drakanite. Abaddon was in no place to decide his next course of location, so instead, he followed lead.

Exhaling, he could finally indulge in a break.

"That is very smart."
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[18:36] Halidrell would follow along with the party, the previous battle still on her mind, as the ringing in her ears had not yet stopped. Slightly disoriented still, she'd soon regain her senses as she is forced to do so, making the trek upwards to a collection of ruins, seemingly akin to those who called themselves Drakanites, or dragons.

Her gaze roams over the history laid dormant before her, her curiosity growing by the second, as she in fact came her for that singular purpose, to satiate said curiosity. If they were to meet a dragon, it would be a delight indeed.

There were two options for the party to partake in, however she did not particularly care which path they took. The shack made of wood might seem an seemingly bad choice. As it's disposition hardly has the prospect of something interesting. But at the same time it could be the opposite, as those with true intellect would hide their secrets in plain sight.

The Parthenon however, would be something often visited by regular patrons of this civilization, and would for the most part not be a place where they'd hide secrets.

Her gaze goes upward, to find some sort of vantage point. She taps Seneval's shoulder before addressing him with a hushed tone.

"I'll go up and have a look-see." she'd mutter, throwing a web towards one of the tallest buildings near her. Her dark webbing would latch on to a pillar to which she'd climb up much like a spider, yet in human form. If some were to follow her movements, she'd seemingly merge with the shadows cast on the pillars and the like, to keep herself nigh-invisible to any possible resident of said ruins.

She would peer over the ruins, gazing towards the points of interest in particular to try and see if danger lurks within.
(Halidrell)
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[18:37] {NARRATION} The spiders that entered the shack would not be met with any threat. It was a abandoned old building that had seen better times. Relics of the past littered the floor. Perhaps of those that belonged whoever lived there.

Those spiders at Seneval's behest that went into the Parthenon? They would see a somewhat stable stone masonry that had been met with the fate of time. Worn paintings and crumbling statues placed all around. A place of worship and history.
[18:39] After having collected his senses, A'Neje was in awe of just what was left behind in these steep mountainous paths...

He turned his head towards Senevál, who had sent a series of what appears to be spiders. A whole horde of them, sent to scout the immediate paths.

He carries himself besides the demon, eyeing one of the nearby buildings.

"I can't imagine the sort of things that were kept in here. I will see what your spiders will uncover... If there is no danger to speak of, I'll look for myself."

And with the little black bugs, A'Neje trailed right behind them, heading towards the Parthenon. He waits besides it, daring not to enter until the scouting mechanism had been completely utilized.
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[18:40] "Mm. Do take a look around, Halidrell."

Though, when he finds it that the shadowy spiders only find relics of the old.. the blackened threads are spurned once more, commanding them to drag whatever it is they found back here - perhaps, there's something of interest.. or perhaps there's some junk.

Or perhaps there's a clue as to what could be waiting for them ahead. Who knows?

Nonetheless, already he proceeds to head towards Parthenon, carefully so- the Spider's senses are, after all, honed to great precision; but as much as there's caution in his movement, he understands that waiting too long in a single place will simply do nothing at all.

So instead.. he begins to look at the worn paintings, the crumbling statues ahead; what he imagines is that this is a place of worship for the Dragon, and there's a clue in his mind that sparks up.

"Mm.."

"The dragon likely had a cult around here - and perhaps, he could confuse us for his cultists, or instead, enemies of the cult. I'd imagine that it may expect a gift, an offering of sort."

"Search around, the lot of you. We'll likely need an offering to avoid battling the dragon.. unless you prefer to battle it?"

"I don't mind though, yes.. but better that way, hm?"

Still, even as he walks about.. the scouting never truly ends, shadowy spiders sent even further ahead - all while he walks on his own.

Who knows? Maybe something else will be found while they advance.
(Senevál)
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[18:41] {NARRATION} Only for those who enter the shack!

Those who entered, roll Dice to check for stability! 1-2 Reduces it’s current stability by one, from three. There are three spots to discover and search within this place. Below a bed held a /crate/, next to a /cooking pot/ held some /cabinets/ and in a separate room would be a chest. Drats it was locked! Was there a key around?

Those who entered the shack truly sought to throw caution to the wind, eh?
[18:44] Senevál has asked to go look around and retrieve whatever might be of use, previously.
(Senevál)
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[18:45] Ryu has broken something causing the structure of the shack to be damaged.
(Ryu )
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[18:45] Ryu says, "Oops."
[18:45] Senevál apparently pulls out excalibur from some old shack
(Senevál)
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[18:46] Weird nope just some spare luminite! Excalibur would burn you iirc.
(Weird Boar Wolf Pack Gang)
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[18:46]
{LOAD GAME}

[18:47] Halidrell peers over the ruins, gazing not just at the Parthenon or the shack, but also the surrounding ruins to look for visible movement. She would allow her gaze to watch the mountain walls surrounding the ruins to make sure they are not watched. Especially not by a dragon of sorts. A proper scout would indeed, prioritize the perimeter rather than just the points of interests.

Eventually though, as she notices the group following Seneval to the Parthenon, Halidrell would follow, webbing herself downward towards the Parthenon. However she would keep her distance, as a means to become a buffer for the party in the scenario they were ambushed. She did not favor riches over security, and would Seneval handle the frontend while she would keep her clutches around the back-end of things.
(Halidrell)
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[18:48] Senevál asks, "Ah-- don't forget to check around, yes?"
[18:48] Senevál says, "I believe my spiders were able to only drag out one item.."
[18:48] Lavinia Walters exclaims, "Mmm, alright!"
[18:49] While Senevál unveils the fountain of youth or whatever from Shrek's pad, A'Neje ventured deeper within that Parthenon. He knew that he had to put his studies ahead of his safety, and intended to observe the nearby murals... Maybe it would give a hint as to how this dragon behaved in years past?
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[18:49] Senevál assumes they were feeding Dragon some ambers.. because it was in a cooking pot.
(Senevál)
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[18:50] Senevál says, "--Wait. Humans don't eat ambers."
[18:50] Senevál asks, "Do they?"
[18:50] A'Neje Dhoreci says, "No, certainly not."
[18:50] Halidrell asks, "Are you sure?"
[18:50] Lavinia Walters exclaims, "They make potions with 'em!"
[18:50] Senevál says, "Hm."
[18:50] A'Neje Dhoreci asks, "What potion could they have been brewing?"
[18:50] Lavinia Walters says, "No clue."
[18:51] A'Neje Dhoreci says, "It must be important."
[18:51] Ryu opened the cabinets carefully and then looked around within. She wiped away some dust and covered her mouth. She pulled out something golden, it was glowing!

"Woooooh!"

She screams as she collects it, there was a different thought in mind. The young drakenite thought that this amber was a golden nugget, but Seneval identifies it for her.

"Do we really?" She looks at Lavinia for clarity as she slowly licks the amber.
(Ryu )
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[18:51] {NARRATION} Simply checking the Cooking pot revealed that the key to the chest set at the bottom of the fluid!...Unfortunately the fluid was old...smell and y-yuck. But he had a key now!
[18:52] Senevál says, "..."
[18:53] Senevál looks at the stinky key that the spiders bring to him, with quite a disgusted face. Still, at least they checked pretty much everything..

"Yes. Let's go further.. that shack is clearly cursed if there are such items."

A glance is given to Ryu, and Senevál commands the spiders to walk towards her.

"You'll carry the key."

And already he trots off to explore further.
(Senevál)
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[18:54] Standing around idly wasn't going to do much. They came here for a reason, and playing a game of stare wasn't going to help. At first, he thought of entering the shack before him, however the aged exterior of the Parthenon was what intrigued him more.

Instead, he walked the other direction, following A'neje, seemingly since he was the only person who went there.

"Hold up. You're walkin' too fast."
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[18:55] Ryu exclaims, "Okay!"
[18:56] Before heading to the place of worship, Lavinia had opted to stay nearby and overlook Ryu's little endeavour. Seneval was there, sure, but it wouldn't hurt to have a few more hands. Or in this case, some wings. Since, y'know, durability didn't seem to be the shack's strong suit.

Flapping her wings, the drakanite would hover near the wooden structure, ready to act if something stupid happened.

"Anythin' good inside? Don't be slackin'! Got some nice statue to visit and I don't wanna carry any of ya' there."
(Lavinia Walters)
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[18:56] Ryu looked down at the spiders carrying the keys and tried to grab one of them. It didn't really click in her mind that they would probably vanish at some point but, the attempt was made.

"Come here you.." She grumbled.

Swiping one up unless it somehow evaded her, she follows behind Seneval closely now.
(Ryu )
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[18:57] Halidrell, after surveying the are would Spider-Man swing down to Seneval, making their way to the Parthenon (probably) after.


(Halidrell)
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[18:57] Halidrell asks, "Found anything?"
[18:57] Ryu says, "Gold, Key's.. uhh some lint."
[18:58] Senevál says, "A key."
[18:58] Ryu exclaims, "Key!"
[18:58] {NARRATION} What remained in the Shack would be a mystery, but as Seneval explored further he would enter a room in the back with a single stand-alone chest. It was locked, but he had given the key to someone else! Whatever riches inside he would have to share now since they would have to go back and retrieve it to open it.
[18:59] With the shadowy spider presumably still held by Ryu, he pulls upon one of the blackened threads attached to it, commanding the spider to wriggle away from her grasp and try to make it towards the chest.

What seems like a comical arrangement of several spiders, they all stack on top of each other, trying to open the chest.

"Let's see what's inside."
(Senevál)
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[19:00] A'Neje continues looking at the mural.
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[19:00] Halidrell's innate curiosity makes her rather giggity at the prospect of what's in the chest. She'd peek over Seneval's shoulder, hoping to see what's in it.


(Halidrell)
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[19:02] A twitching sensation demands her to loosen her grip. She watched as the spider with the key flies away from her grasp.

"He- oh, okay."

She realizes that their maker was demanding their presence. She follows up behind him to take note of the area they were in now, her eye was looking around for other little hiding holes. Maybe she could get her hands on something dangerous if she paid close attention to what was within.
(Ryu )
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[19:03] {NARRATION} The spiders were commanded to bring forth the key! Everything seemed alright in the room. All that remained was to unlock the chest and pilfer its contents. Or so they thought, right?

Once the key was entered and turned into the lock...

The top of the chest popped itself open and released its booby trap! Those in the room who inhaled the mist soon found themselves writhing in irritation as their figures swapped gender!

By their luck, an alchemist lived here. One who didn't take kindly to people going through his things!
[19:06] "Huh."

How quaint. With the booby trap springing, and apparent mist of genderswap potion- or rather the airy form of it- spreading out, he seems unphased by the fact that he suddenly acquires feminine features; if anything, he only looks at Halidrell briefly.

And entirely female voice replaces his usual one.

"Halidrell. Observe."

"I have acquired the charms that you use in order to fool the men of mortals."
(Senevál)
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[19:08] Blink blink.

Different voices. What? Something was wrong. Very wrong, and Lavinia had to do something about it?

"Is there someone there?! I'm comin'!"

Very much concerned for the wellbeing of her allies, Lavinia would rush over and be just about ready to step into the shack herself! If only someone could stop her. Would they have time? Would they be fast enough? But one thing was for sure, she was ready to save her colleagues from the unfamiliar voices.
(Lavinia Walters)
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[19:08] Halidrell peers over his shoulder, going full on GIDDY, she'd wait to see what's inside the treasure chest. But no, it's a trap.

As the mist envelops her, she'd slowly turn into a more male figure. Still having long raven locks. His face turned chiseled and stronger. Her hips are now exchanged with broader shoulders, and her voice is deep and raspy.

"And it seems I am now forced to deflect womanly advances to my poor person." he mutters.

"You will have to teach me how you manage to keep them at bay with little effort, Seneval."
(Halidrell)
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[19:09] Ryu's muscles grew tenfold, she was a now a he. A tiny amount of peach fuzz sprung forth on her upper lip. She felt her throat itch and then she tried to call for help.

"Bro.. I-" They stop now.. This wasn't what she had expected.

She turns around and sits down, slowly they slide on a pair of pants as they feel a bit too exposed in their nether regions.

"Can we leave now bro."
(Ryu )
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[19:11] A'Neje continues searching the Parthenon for valuable information... but a series of familiar yet unfamiliar voices echoed from the shack, where everyone had previously been investigating.

"Abaddon... Do you hear that? Do you think we've been confronted by another group of adventurers?"
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[19:11] Halidrell says, "Stay close woman, I'll protect you."
[19:12] Senevál says, "You're such a wonderful gentleman to me, Halidrell."
[19:12] Halidrell says, "Call me Harry."
[19:12] Senevál says, "Sure. I'll be Becky."
[19:13] It seemed the other side was peaceful, since the two had been able to examine the design of the Parthenon. Much better than the Shack.

-- Then, all of a sudden, womanly voices transgressed into manly cries of help, and manly voices formulated into womanly squeals.

"Perhaps. Should we seek em'?"
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[19:14] A'Neje Dhoreci says, "...I'm sure they can handle negotiations. I'm just here to learn."
[19:14] Ryu asks, "Are we gonna check that other chest?"
[19:14] Ryu says, "Follow me dude bros."
[19:14] Abaddon Mal'phas says, "Fair. However, those voices sounded displeasant."
[19:14] {NARRATION} Once their escapades in the kink-shack had been completed and looted. The group exited to find themselves with yet another remnant of the ruins that had been left behind.

For those who entered the parthenon next would find history, carved and painted along the walls. While the blue dragon, Ryujin sat in their inanimate glory dead center of the structure, the walls told a story of the first Drakanite.

From the south-western part of the room, going clockwise it would be depicted.

Green Dragon’s rained down fire as spears and arrows flew up to combat one another. There was terror on both sides with many losses. A sun passed and set then arose a new one in wake of a child approaching one. In their hand was an offering of food to none other than a blue dragon, Ryujin.

The blue dragon accepted such offering and in the next depiction along the walls would display a claw of Ryujin meeting the boy's person. A flash of light was then drawn between sets of paintings and in the next, the boy had sprouted into the half shifting form Eternia knew today as Drakanites. What came after were slightly small forms similar to the first drakanite. These were the first children! Scaley boy got it on.
[19:17] Ryu raises her arms up and awkwardly waddles beyond the others, and then suddenly.. they had learned a bunch about Ryujin.. She was still thinking about that other chest however.

"Dude.. this is like.. my history bro."

She was still walking like a jack ass, making it a challenge to bump into everyone she walked by. Testosterone flowed through her veins as she approached the drawings analyzing them from start to finish.

"This guys like.. my grandpa dude.."

She puffed up her chest and then looked around a bit more, the durability of the shack was in jeopardy. If anyone else wanted to go back to that previous chest, she'd wait for them to say so. For now she tried lifting the house.

"I could lift this so easily man, like if you guys weren't in here I'd flip this thing dude. You feel me bro?"
(Ryu )
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[19:20] It had to be the history.

When Senevál observes the depictions, he can't help but tilt his head- as much as the kingdom of Atrellya was a distant land to many, full of bygones for it was mostly inhabited by the demons.. it doesn't mean that they were unaware of the history as a whole - and most certainly not the origins.

"Hm."

"The first Drakanite."

A single mutter under his breath, but.. already he has an idea- while it may be false, of course, there's something that causes him to think of entirely something else.

And he did have provision upon him, did he not?

With that said.. Senevál approaches towards the statue of Ryujin, if only to extend the preserved meat towards him- an offering of food, of course.. for perhaps he's used to the fact that Atrellya is filled with bizarre dungeons and castles with such intricate puzzles..

Maybe this here is the case too.

"This is for you."

Mere words, and yet he stands out with the offering of food. How quaint..
(Senevál)
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[19:20] He lead himself along the mural... It was painting a story along the wall that could only tell one of the history of the Drakanites.

"Would you look at this... It seemed that mankind and dragon had both fought one another in the past. A terrifying battle that must have lasted eons before peace could be brokered..."

He let his hand slide against the dusty surface, entranced by the history being fortold in the very walls he stepped through. His injuries still stung, but the pang of knowledge could be felt thoroughly, much moreso than his slashes.

"In the end, both sides suffered great loss. However, an offering of peace was made in the form of food. The result... The first Drakenite."
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[19:20] Accompanying A'neje into the interior of the building, they found architecture belonging to ancient history, one that likely piqued both their interests. After all, it wasn't every day that people were exposed to the memories of the past.

"Oh... You get where this is going, right? I ain't know Dragons had this much forte to them. In fact, it's interesting."

Clanking his boots across the dusty floors of the Parthenon, he closed the distance between him and the Statue. Following just behind Seneval.

"That's a very honourable thing to do. But, how do you know it won't bite you?"
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[19:21] Senevál says, "I don't know that."
[19:21] Senevál says, "I trust my instincts. That's it."
[19:21] Senevál says, "Maybe it's enchanted, magical, or whatever. Who knows."
[19:21] A'Neje Dhoreci says, "It doesn't describe... HOW a Drakenite happened in the first place, but I don't think this is that kind of mural."
[19:21] It seemed he had to live with it for the moment. Or rather, he did not truly care, as his humanoid form was just a façade to use in order to mingle with the humans of Esshar. As such, it was a proper opportunity to see things transpire from a male's perspective.

Regardless, he follows Becky and Gunther towards the Parthenon, in order to meet up with the rest. He did not realize the rest of the group would most likely be alarmed by their sudden altered appearance, yet he would greet them as he normally would. Raising a hand to them before stating;

"Hello. We're back." his voice now deeper and with a slight rasp.

His gaze is immediately drawn to the mural depicting some form of history of an ancient time, of dragons and other such things. She saw the significance of the mural as it depicted them offerings and the like, to which they were eventually rewarded with draconic features. The creation of the first Drakanite, it seemed.

Interesting. He thought, as he tracked along the wall to examine the mural in detail, mind-mapping it in fact, to his memory. The significance of the statue in the center of the Parthenon was made clear.

He contemplated whether more would be hidden, but would wait and see what would transpire next...-- as he did not wish to fall for another trap.

"You go ahead and try. I'm not going to fall for yet another trap." He exclaims, the same manner of speech he would have in female form, yet distorted now by a male voice.

"I'll stand at a clear distance."
(Halidrell)
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[19:24] "Guys are y- What the fuck."

Frozen in place, Lavinia found her squadmates, gender bent and an affront to Kraus himself. Eyes shifted from person to person, mortified.

". . . Gender bender potion, yeah? Dammit."

And here she thought the people of the dragons were serious. With a sigh, Lavinia was resigned to push forward. Because, well, there were other more interesting things to do! Like find that goddamn dragon.

Now, they were in the parthenon. Lavinia was immediate in awe when in proximity to such a marble marvel. Scaly hands sought to touch the surface of the state, as her enamoured eyes scrutinized every detail of the artistic masterpiece.

"Oh. OH! Very, very smart thinkin' again, Mister Seneval~"

A somewhat dazed Lavinia turned to recognize the genius of the demon's initiative! But still, she seemed to be overly intrigued by the fine work done here. It was the first time she could see an actual, three dimensional rendition of a dragon. And it so happened to be Ryujin himself!

"Offerin' to the great head spirit, 'n' in this humble act of givin', a great gift is bestowed for generations on end. M'hm."
(Lavinia Walters)
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[19:26] Ryu asks, "Did anyone check that other chest bro..?"
[19:26] Ryu watches as Seneval offers the statue meat.
(Ryu )
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[19:27] Halidrell asks, "Maybe a drakanite should offer the meat?"
[19:27] Halidrell says, "Just putting that out there."
[19:27] Ryu says, "I'll handle this bro."
[19:27] Lavinia Walters says, "Tsk tsk."
[19:27] Lavinia presents her hand to Seneval.
(Lavinia Walters)
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[19:27] Senevál says, "Let's see if it does anything about me first."
[19:27] He would call that out from a safe distance
(Halidrell)
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[19:27] Lavinia Walters says, "If nothin' happens, I'll handle it, m'hm."
[19:28] Halidrell says, "Let Gunther do it."
[19:28] {NARRATION} The building was nothing more than a museum hosting the history of the people who once remained in this land. Around them would be the remants and nothing more. The statue in front of Seneval would not react to such an offering, as quaint a gesture as it was. Yet it was not in vain! There was beside the statue brazziers to accept such offerings, yet the copper was tarnished. This place could well be over centuries old.

Before them was simply a scaled down imagine of the Dragon whom once created the first Drakanite, as depicted on the walls around them. The resemblance made it quite clear. This was a statue erected directly in Ryujin's image.
[19:30] Abaddon Mal'phas asks, "Who added a Man to our crew...?"
[19:30] "I expected enchanted statue. I suppose they didn't really go that route.."

Though, Senevál understands that this could be the opportunity for the lot of them to study the place such as this- as such, there's no interruption that follows to the likes of Ryu and Lavinia, understanding that they could potentially like to explore further.

"You can take a look around if you wish so."

"We'll continue moving forward after that.. as I don't think there's much to do around here."
(Senevál)
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[19:32] Tarnished copper, Ryu walks over with her chest puffed up and then stops before the statute. She looked at Lavinia and then back to the statue, if she wasn't stopped this was the route she was taking.

"I'm gonna burn it bro."

She inhaled deeply and exhaled after the sharp breath was taken, she wanted to make sure that her idols were taken care of, this meant the statue as well. With her boy brain moving at a rather slow pace, she felt that fire would be the best way to refurbish the copper statute. Hues of green and grey pits would likely be renewed, replenished with molted copper slowly stretching to take form once more.

"How'd I do...?" She asks.
(Ryu )
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[19:34] {NARRATION} All seemed well for the group. History was depicted for them to observe and those akin to the dragons present may have found solace in discovering a place of their own history. Though it was not all in good signs. The place was worn down and very much ready to crumble. Rubble fell in their wake as they disturbed the ancient ruins.

All would be well at the same time, had they not drawn the attention of the lands guardian.

From above soared down a grand winged beast. Certainly as their hopes had been raised through this adventure, they would discover that a dragon frequented the land! It came down overhead and with a great flap of their wings extreme winds would jar the groups attire and kick up dust.

The Dragon was dark in color and certainly scaley once it was seen up close. The scales under its maw were extended to give it the look of a goatee. Though one thing was left uncertain, what was the Dragon intending to do and why was it here? Just how old was it?

These questions and more would be answered as the dragon made its descent and landed outside of the parthenon. Would the group approach?
[19:36] A'Neje opted to stay within the Parthenon... To approach the dragon without the offering of food would have been much too risky.

Rather than speak his peace, he awaited for the group to venture ahead, hoping to start introductions properly!
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[19:40] As expected.

Though.. as Senevál observes the dragon's descent right outside of the Parthenon, there's an evident smile upon his countenance, if only due to how much intriguing he finds this. He also knows that not all dragons are capable of speaking human tongue, not by a long shot.. and that the lot of them tend to respect Demonkind.

If only because of the fact that Demons can communicate with them in telepathy.

It is precisely what Senevál intends to do when he makes his approach. He comes close, closer.. until yet another portion of offering is extended towards the dragon- preserved, albeit well cooked meat, one that could surely be considered a treat. It is given in non-hostile gesture, one that signifies that the Demon isn't here to actually harm the Dragon.

Unless, of course, there's a challenge in place to be had- still, the message is spoken in telepathy.

"Greetings. You are a guardian of this place, yes?"

"I come with several Drakanites with myself. I believe they wish to speak to you."

The message is directly transferred into Dragon's mind via telepathy- to the outsiders, however, he's entirely silent, merely looking up at the winged creature.
(Senevál)
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[19:40] Halidrell would stand idle for the most part, as he had already reviewed the murals and such. Eventually, the shadow once again blotting out the sun would alert him, his gaze forced upwards at the sound of wings beating. The dragon was here.

Webbing was spun immediately in order for himself to be propelled towards the Parthenon's ceiling, or at least one of it's higher pillars. He positions himself in a way to remain concealed and out of the dragon's sight, for how long that might last. In a habitual manner.

He allows the shadows to soon envelop him to remain as hidden as possible, awaiting the rest of the groups next step. If the dragon were to be hostile, he would endeavor to ambush him from the shadows, to make certain the group isn't caught by the dragon's unprovoked attack.

As Seneval addressed him, he waits for it all to unfold.
(Halidrell)
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[19:40] Surprise after surprise. First, they were ambushed by a pack of rather adroit wolves, and then a mist that converted their genders, a Parthenon that contained relics from an old civilisation, and now, the mother of all shockers. The promised Dragon the group set out for made itself known.

It was a sight to uphold. A dragon, one in the flesh, adorning a black shade.

However, he did not approach. Instead, he waited at the entrance, allowing someone else to initiate contact with the winged creature before him.
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[19:45] There was so much to register, so much to interpret. Lavinia, while certainly still young and with a degree of inexperience with such obscure tellings of history, she was learning quite a bit. Notably, the value of the simplest of offerings to an almighty deity. A simple, kind act had gargantuan ramifications onto the world.

And as such, what would the smallest of slights do to the world? An affront to the gods, so deeply tied to the elements and the people of this world. So many theories, so many possibilities!

So much more was to be discovered, surely! But as they would seek to venture forward in these ruins, a familiar echo could be heard. The flapping of wings, big ones. And then, a looming shadow.

It was him. The dragon.

Shocked by the arrival of such a majestic and mighty beast, the drakanite froze in place, paralyzed in awe. It was huge, bigger than she had thought. Its scales were dark, just as she sought to turn her own into. It looked so perfect, so powerful.

With her frontal lobe temporarily disabled, Lavinia marched forward, getting every so closer to the beast.

"You are . . . To much more glorious than I had dreamed."

She merely uttered. Her hand instinctively reached for her pouched, where a mass of cooked and well-preserved jerky was presented in her cupped hands. And just as Nehir had once done with Ryujin, Lavinia would seek to do as the depictions had done.

A humble gift for the most majestic of beings. She did not say anymore, for now. She didn't quite know what to say, really.
(Lavinia Walters)
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[19:45] "Bro, are you my grandpa?"

She placed her hands on her hips and trotted forward toward the intimidating dragon. She was hopped up on testosterone and teenage spirit, there was nothing stopping her.

The drakenite looked at the dragon and then walked closer, there was a hint of fear in their approach but, their heart told them to approach.

"I have the heart of fire, and I'm going to be the strongest ever. Teach me all of your skills bro. Telepathy.. flight.. super strength, you know, I want to be just like you."

She says all of this as they get as close as the dragon will allow.
(Ryu )
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[19:45] {Item} You drop Jerky.
[19:48] {NARRATION} Once the group exited the parthenon and approached the Dragon, Flayre, the majestic immortal would perch himself up on his hind legs and flapped his wings at them! Ferocious winds battered over them once more. It picked up dust and even rubble to be tossed around and blown off the cliffside.

Flayre was roughly twenty feet tall and as dark as the night. They exhaled fire as a norm and with slit iris they eyed those in front of him. He was overly cautious and otherwise feeling offended.This was the dragon’s land, so they were met with hostility!

A voice rang back in telepathy to those akin to it. Unfocused and only reaching those with the similar affinity for it.

‘You dare tread these lands of the forgotten?! Begone you wretched virus of the world!’

Their own personal strife in the world interfered with the attempt to be sated. Eternia had been cruel to this one. It was evident by the scars on his underbelly and such spots of his scales had been ruptured. This Dragon had seen war.

‘Staaaay Away!’

Claws came sweeping around towards the group, scattering them and scarring the earth. Then his fiery breath scorched the land around them. It’s been so long since they have seen anyone else up here that the dragon simply wished to preserve what remnants had been left behind….

It mattered not to him at the moment who they were. Flayre treasured this place. The attempt at a peaceful approach by Seneval was in vain...for now.
[19:49] {Item} You picked up Jerky. Dropped by Lavinia Walters. .
[19:53] "Ah."

Truthfully, he didn't expect the Dragon to be all that peaceful.. for the fact that it's all alone here, it is safe to assume that either something happened to the cult, or instead it had devoured those that worshipped it- although, despite all that, there's only a smile on his face.

And another message of telepathy.

"We've come in peace and with respect, Dragon.."

"But if you end up defeated? You will be the one showing respect to us."

Might is right. That is the philosophy that Demonkind followed- and if they were to best it, then the Dragon would have to submit to their demands, lest it would die instead. Though.. it is unwise to try and 'share the hide' of a beast that you haven't killed yet - so before them, there's a trial.

A major one.

"Prepare yourselves. This one does not wish to speak."

The shadows already cloak the Spider, and already the tormenting presence of Occult reaches out- one intended to grasp at the Dragon's very essence, to feast upon something so grand. After all, it decided to attack it..

Surely it doesn't mind to give up some of its energy in return for such transgression?
(Senevál)
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[19:55] The claw swiped at his friends and comrades, and the frost mage perked up! Dashing towards the group, he aimed to defend them from the intense heat of a terrifying beast. However, in the moment of fear... A'Neje felt it within the trembling voice. A tone that he recognized years before.

Fear, within its voice, its scars, its eyes.

He raises his staff, and a raging flurry of spikes penetrated the same shredded earth to combat the fire! Intense heat would clash with raging inferno between the dragon and the group...

"So this is the antithesis of ice! To endure the heat of a dragon... I must know! Prepare yourselves for battle, to tame a dragon!"

To understand the truth of his ice magic, he had to know the mightiest of fire... to be able to develop the stillness of ice.
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[19:56] Ryu watches closely as the drakenite approaches. She bolsters up her chest as they shriek to stay away. She figured that this wasn't going to be a pain in her rear, Seneval had made some sort of challenge to the drakenite. While she wanted to be on good terms with them, she figured there wasn't much she could do aside from join the winning side.

"Bro, I'm only siding with you because I believe in you, please don't hurt it that badly." She was really confused, but it was clear that this dragon had a specific agenda in this daring hour.

"I'm Ryu, Pureblood drakenite, Pro wrestler in training, Master of fire, show me what you got so I too can become like you, Elder."

She charges in aiming to stun the dragon long enough for the others to do their thing.
(Ryu )
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[19:58] As he expected.

Harry immediately spun another web to clear some distance, while his gaze locks onto Seneval who was down below. By means of telepathy, he would communicate with to let him know what his next move would be.

"Going for the flank -- Keep him busy." he would message Senevalerie through telepathy.

Once the webbing latches on to a pillar further away, he would opt to swing towards it an figure out what the dragon would attempt in order to properly devise a stratagem as things go. He was indeed a strategist, and for the most part wishes to win before the battle even starts.

He figured the dragon being aggravated he would lash out first, thus finding himself in a position to which Halidrell could flank him, since he will be the aggressor and thus place himself into the fray initially. He had decided, he would wait before he strikes.

Dark occultic magic begins to leak from his person, as if the shadows itself drip from his physique, enveloping him while also leaking into the shadows surrounding him.

A truly powerful creature. While the demons often deemed humans beneath them, perhaps this dragon would prove himself to be something of a more equal stature. Ancient and wise, this battle was more than just a bout on the streets. This was something to go into the story books, and it seemed Halidrell's curiosity would pay off in ways he did not expect. Minus the gender-bend.

His occultic power now fully enveloping his body, his mission was to determine whether he could manipulate the shadows to sap unto the deepest fears of the dragon, and in consequence, take a bite of his soul. The scars on his chest, his tenacity in defending a decrepit ruin, ignoring all reason or logic. It was clear this dragon would defend this place to the last breath, as it was an effigy of his lost past.

He reeked of fear.

Good.

It's time to feast.
(Halidrell)
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[19:59] Of course, Abaddon sensed an aura of hostility upon the Dragon's descent. It was foolish to believe they could actually communicate on the same level of a twenty foot, ancient, jet black scaly Dragon.

Having also the ability to converse telepathically, the cry of the Dragon rung like an alarm in his head. It was derogatory, laced with a tint of hatred toward humanity, a darker abysmal anger accompanying it.

Seneval was right. Both Demons possessed a similar attitude as a response to the Dragon, however the Older said it perfectly. Needless to say, Abaddon had fully well known entering combat again was going to be devastating to his body, but it was worth it...

Grunting, he would drop his arms to his sides, a blank stare written across his countenance. Instead, he stared, watching and waiting for combat.

Like this:

https://i.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/mobile/000/031/003/cover3.jpg
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[19:59] Completely enamoured with the moment, Lavinia hadn't quite registered that the dragon had, in fact, come here to punish them for trespassing! It'd honestly be due to her stumbling back that the claw attack would miss her by just a centimetre.

Falling on her ass, it seemed she had avoided quite the nasty fate. A couple of blinks later and she'd realize what had just occurred. And it looked like Jerky didn't quite cut it.

"Wh-what?"

Impossible! Such a noble being, stooping to attacking such lower beings. It was such a bizarre and otherworldly experience for the Drakanite. And yet, it was an outcome she had prepared for.

Quickly, she stood. Shivers ran down her spine, as she realized that the apex of her kind was really out to kill her team. Kill HER. A DRAGON like IT. This wasn't acceptable. Oh no. A clenched jaw would grind teeth together, as even if she did not share Seneval's ability to use telepathy, she could certainly empathize with his sentiment.

"I am a dragon too. And I AIN'T takin' SHIT from my own kin."

The dark enveloped her- her scales. They were darkened ever so slightly, as if harmonizing the occult with the blessing she had been given at birth. An affront to the dragon before her. An affront to Ryujin. Lavinia was ready to throw down.
(Lavinia Walters)
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[20:24] * You have been awarded 1 Roleplay Points! *
[20:58] {NARRATION} Seneval was caught slacking with his mouth open and some fiery ember burned his tongue! It was only minor thankfully. Imagine the hoshashasha of overheated food.

Flayre’s spike tail bashed into A’Neje with impaled his leg then dragged him around for some duration until he was launched at some point or another to continue fighting!

Halidrell’s face was met with a gruesome hot fiyabol and dehydrated their face. They would look shriveled up for some time like an old person.

Lavinia’s own tail rested on the scorching ground while it was lit aflame and it suffered third degree burns…

Ryu was picked up like a princess….or prince in this case and squeezed in Flayre’s hand for most of the fight. Towards the end they were thrown like a boulder at Abaddon

Abbadon felt his insides heat up during the intense bursts of fire that overcame him! Thankfully the fire also singed his previous injuries to stop the bleeding. He would be suffering from hot flashes for a few months. They also had Ryu thrown at them like a ragdoll and they both collided!

Flayre’s anger had been quelled for the time being, but was far from defeated. A chip on his fang evident as it fell to the floor before him as a result of the battle. Those who stood before him fought with a purpose, yet those of his kin also made noteworthy. Slit irises would look onto Ryu and Lavinia as the dragon dropped to his posterior.

A voice would reach out to the two and in tandem to the demons present to pick up such forms of telepathy. Anyone else un-kin or not of the otherworldly would be left in the dark.

“What is it you seek returning to this place? Long abandoned and forgotten. Much like all of history. Much like myself.

Their wings would beat once more for the other frivolous beings in front of them. Their head would also pick up and look to the sky. It seemed the dragon was ready to depart at any time.

“Be quick about it. I’ve come to disengage from here after resting my wings.

(Abaddon got the last hit on last rpb, you can rp beating the dragon back. Not kill)
[21:06] It becomes terribly difficult to oppose this.

For one thing is certain, Dragons are most definitely made out of entirely something else, something which wasn't exactly feasible for even the mightiest magi to easily match; if anything, he imagines that such endeavour would be one to be remembered.. for who else could actually say that they fought a dragon in such manner?

Still..

With the flow of the dark across the field, with the constant assault of shadows and more.. Senevál finds it in himself to stick upon the dragon at the most opportune times, striking out against the spots that he deems vulnerable; perhaps, those surroundings the scars and those that were wounds of the old.

All to bring it down.

For there would be no quarter given until the Dragon is made to fall and give up on his attempts of fighting; yet, in the most bizarre fashion, he finds the tongue of his own burned, of all things.. perhaps amidst the heaved breaths and exhaustion that was settling in during combat.

In the end, they made it, did they not? The telepathy stretches towards the Dragon once it's brought down, speaking out.

"--Your essence, Dragon."

"You disrespected us by assuming we are offenders. You disrespected us, assuming that we're here to bring about ruination. But you forget one rule."

"Might is right - and you lost. Surrender part of your energy, and I will let you go. Or else, try your luck of fighting again when you've been brought down already."

A huff. It seems, in such rare times.. the usually cold-blooded Spider looks agitated- and sounds agitated too, with the voice echoing in Dragon's mind.

"The others wanted to speak to you."

"But I await my payment for your transgression."
(Senevál)
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[21:08] It seemed that his legs would forever feel the scorn of this terrible dragon. The floor had permanently lit aflame, making it nigh impossible to avoid the scorching flames. While his spells seemed to merely tickle the thing, at least he got a better understanding of what true flame is like, and when he had frozen the tracks of the beast on occassion during the scuffle, he felt a true connection between himself and what stillness truly was.

That would be, until in a sudden impact with his leg, he was pierced! Dragged along the battlefield and the feiry torrent, A'Neje couldn't control his range of motion or focus on casting any spells to protect himself.

However, he would persist.

Pulling himself up once again, he held himself still against the staff-turned-walking cane. He persisted, because he had to persist. To become stronger. It was as simple as that.

Unfortunately, it seemed like A'Neje, once the battle was finished, was the only oneincapable of understanding the dragon's speech. He simply stumbled upright, staring between each of the members of his party and the dragon. He was speechless, for what would he have to respond to?
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[21:09] And so it began, the dragon who stood before them mighty and grand. It welled up a certain excitement within Halidrell, as his curiosity has now been granted with a reward. To be one of the first demons on Esshar to meet with an actual dragon. As if it were chronicled in a novel.

There was one thing he noticed immediately, as he looked for a point of entry to enter the dragon's flank. Things were about to get hot. Really hot. And while that's the perspective of a demon, it would mean something, as they of course were often associated with hell and other hot places. Nevertheless, the dragon was a mighty beast able to produce fire burning at temperatures unnaturally amplified by magic. Surely a mighty foe.

She spun her webbing all around, only to be burned to ash immediately by the dragon's presence alone. Her only resort was to enhance them with shadow, and while they lasted for that meager moment use them to move about and evade the sea of fire the dragon soon summoned to attack them.

And not just seas of flames. No, great beams of fire, fireballs that flew about, homing in on their targets by magical means, and her group's members flailing about, avoiding the fire while hoping to land a hit on the dragon, whom seemed to be in his element completely.

The battle would be a hard fought one.

It raged on, and it soon became clear that the dragon's ability to keep his enemies at bay would be their undoing. The scorching flames licking away at their skin would soon render them unable to move, and Halidrell had trouble finding the means, or concoct the proper stratagem to effectively win the battle.

It seemed she had to resort to brute force. But then she remembered, in the heat of battle, that the only way she would be able to survive this ordeal, was to tap into the power she had pursued.

She consequently latched her shadowy-webbing onto the dragon, and proceeded to force her occultic energies onto him, in order to hopefully sap away his essence. In doing so, she gained the means to remain up and running long enough for the battle to end, as the dragon had decided to cease the fighting for a moment, and address them.

Through telepathy the dragon spoke, and she would respond in kind.

"You reek of fear, dragon. Your unprovoked attack has exposed you. As my kin stated, we will await compensation for your loss." she'd state.


(Halidrell)
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[21:11] And he thought the wolves were tough. Right now, those pack of animals would pale in comparison to the flesh and blood before them, the Dragon. If anything, the power between the two situations were akin to that of a baby to an Adult. Devastating.

Nonetheless, there wasn't much of a choice here. The battle initiated, and whilst they had progressed fairly well to bring it down a couple of times, the Dragon's valor remained as hardened as ever. Magic collided throughout the field, gravity, shadow, fire, plasma, water, all the sorts merged to clasp victory. Quite frankly, Ryu hadn't much of a chance in the field, and unfortunately for the Demon, she caused impact with Abaddon, causing him to clutch his ribs. That one hurt, infuriating him.

A heart of steel, prideful flames and valiant advances. It was admirable, although it would need to end sooner or later. Amidst the battle, the stave in his hand would glow, his pupils glistening a hue of lighter red.

It cocked back, thrusting into the air. Using what mana he had left, the youth would summon a pool of Gravity, formulating a force exerting down on the Dragon. To his surprise, it was the final blow -- One that sought to see the Dragon lose.

Afterwards, the behemoth spoke to the minds of Drakanite and demon alike, asking what they required. If Seneval and him were anything akin to each other, they would most likely request the same proposition.

Stumbling, he would slowly fix his posture, before speaking in his head.

"I'm hungry. So... hungry."

"-- But, your essence can fix that."
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[21:12] This was crazy! So much fire everywhere, so much destruction. And clearly, they couldn't actually do much to this beast. The scales were obscenely robust too, leaving only a tooth to be chipped. Meanwhile, Lavinia's tail would undergo quite the god awful ordeal. Burns, horrid burns that leave deep, steaming red marks on her.

"Ahhhh fuuuuuuuck!"

She winced and growled while holding her tail. At this point, the dragon had ceased its attacks and her allies were hardly recuperating from the battle against the behemoth. The drakanite was focused on trying to dull out some of the pain by holding it up in the air and letting it cool. But, while she could cope with the pain, she couldn't not do much about the damage done to her being.

As such, she'd make a conscious effort to keep that appendage rise above ground and avoid any sort of contact with it. Now, she had to focus on something else: The Dragon. It had been leering at her and the younger Drakanite.

She stepped forward, though this time no jerky was being offered. It seemed a seared tail was maybe enough of a sacrifice.

"Mmm. Great Ancient of the Skies! My name is Lavinia, and I come only to seek your wisdom. Lost wisdom wielded only by the ancients of our kind."

Index, major and ring fingers rose.

"I have three questions for you, Ancient One. The first is for both myself and my friend here. And it is a simple one. How can our nymph-like drakanite forms every reach the apotheosis that is you? A Dragon. For it is clear that both Ryu and myself are meant to join you in the skies."

"The second- What happened to our people, here? Drakanites and Dragons. Why is your kind so sparse and secretive? You are as mighty as some of the mightiest warriors to have walked this world, and yet y'hide!"

"And third . . ."

She paused for a moment, peering down in contemplation, before gazing at the beast once more with immense resolve in her eyes.

"Where is he? Our Progenitor. Our great Lord of Spirits. There is a question I have, and only he can answer."
(Lavinia Walters)
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[21:15] She, or.. he rather.. felt like they were doing great. Fighting the dragon was easily the hardest thing they'd ever done in their life. However there was something that she was willing to do herself, become the dragon by any means necessary. She tried her best to consume the dragon, its very essence is what she was after.

Her teeth did nothing, they did not penetrate those legendary elder scales. She was beaten back and then grabbed like a trinket. It felt all too safe in his grasp, she was in love. It was something she'd never feel again, or so she thought.

"Feed me.. Feed me our power!"

She bit down hard on his palm and then realized not much happened. She looks down to Lavinia as she speaks.

"This isn't Granpda Ryujin?

Who is this sham! I wont stand for thisss!!!!"

At the time, her sudden rage timed precisely with the dragons defeat, his grip weakened due to Abaddon's final attack. However she was under he impression that she had done this herself, she punched the dragon and then grasped onto one of its fingers trying to bend it backwards.

"GO DOWN!" She roars.
(Ryu )
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[21:15] Flayre says, "why do people try to love my ecs_"
[21:16] Flayre says, "arrow tried to fuck my witch ec_"
[21:32] {NARRATION} Flayre was brought down by the force of enhanced gravity! The likely of which weighed heavily on the Dragon. They were forced to a standstill. How humiliating this old dragon felt!

Thrice asked for essence and such a thing percieved by lesser beings to Flayre meant little to them. A shining light emitted from the dragon and pierced through each of Seneval, Halidrell and Abaddon. The first of which settled for simply that. After all, the immortal was abundant in the stuff.

Fighting the force of gravity as they quickly recovered, like immortal beings do, Flayre sat up on their rear and looked down on the creatures before them. A voice ringing out those akin and attuned to such spells like telepathy.

"I am a far-cry from the great Ryujin young drakanite, however I will entertain your questions then take my leave."

"You wish to soar the skies with your kin, but I sense you do not know what it means. We do not hide, it is us who take to the skies for weeks on end without fatigue. Consider yourself lucky I grew tired and landed to rest."

"Your forms are lacking the purity of your blood young Drakanites. Your ancestors mated with that not of your kind and thus, your lineage fell from the pureblooded kin you see before you."

"The people here have long since migrated. Left Mu' as a whole and sought solace in a land less plagued by war. These ruins are centuries old. IT would be wise to study them while you can."

The fang that fell to Flayre's claws was pinched up and dropped beside Ryu. A parting gift? Though he was amused at the nymph Drakanite's attempt to fight their hand.

"To answer the final question. I do not know where Lord Ryujin is. Nor is it of concern to go looking for them, for your betterment. You are who you are, and that is what is important."
[21:40] Halidrell could not help but smirk at the sight of the dragon releasing a portion of it's essence to freely towards the demons. He willingly accepts it as the beam of light strikes him, enveloping him in the light for a brief moment.

He sends a nod to the dragon, acknowledging it's greatness. His decision to come along proved fruitful.
(Halidrell)
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[21:41] The essence of immortality.

When the Dragon pushed the gateway for such a thing, it was quick to be accepted by the Demon, if only because of how intoxicating he knew it could be.. and where it's offered in such manner, the Occultism was readily swelling in the entirety of the area, ingested by the Demon in rather greedy manner.

His hands extend forth to the flow, basking in the offering.

One upon which the energy of the Dragon is given unto him. The lifeforce, the essence of another.. it was far too much to simply pass up in such manner; where the shadows swirl and flicker around him with the essence stolen, there's an evident smile painted over Senevál's face as that happens..

If only for the remnants of such essence to settle within him.

To an extend, it is entirely different experience of its own, one that could almost prove to be addicting, but.. Senevál doesn't let up- the payment has been done, and he sees no reason to pursue any further. Besides.. it allowed him to gain insight upon such intricate workings, did it not?

"Good.."

"I have no further quarrel with you."

With dues being paid.. now it would only be up to the others to finish whatever else they desired.

Soon enough, they would be leaving.
(Senevál)
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[21:42] "So.. I'm not pure like you..? How do I become pure?! I want to be a full dragon!"

She roared while wailing at his fist, she was dropped onto the ground and Flayre dropped a fang right beside her. She stared at it and the clutched it for dear life.

"Wait wait, don't go, take me with you! I want to become a real full fledge dragon! I want to fly forever, I want my fire to become even hotter, I want to be strong for eternity... please take me!"

She hobbled up and began to run toward Flayre.

"Don't leave me here, I want to know everything, how do I speak to peoples minds!" She was referring to the telepathy that the dragon was communicating through at the moment.

There was never a greater feeling of reassurance than she held now, near death but handled with care she felt as if her place was with this dragon eternally. She'd give anything to leave this place with them.

"Please.. I'll do anything!"
(Ryu )
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[21:42] "Pureblood?"

Her tone held a weight of defeat in it. An overwhelming roadblock had been set that prevented Lavinia from reaching greater heights. Blood. She was merely the fruit of lust between a human and a drakanite. Her blood couldn't be more muddied. This didn't sit right with her. It angered her, actually.

Fingers recoiled into a fist, her claws digging into her flesh and allowing the fluid she resented so to drip down her palm.

And then came the last bit of information. Ryujin's whereabouts. Lavinia would be content with any of the great five, really. But, nothing. There'd be nothing for her to gain from this. This wasn't fair. The truth wasn't fair and she despised it so.

"No. NO! You're not leavin' like that! NO!"

Furious, she allowed an unrestrained amount of occultic mana to accumulate onto her hands, enhanced by the anger that boiled in her and was being unleashed without any restraint.

"I have to KNOW! You don't get to CHOOSE what's good for me! You KNOW where he is! You will TELL ME!"

Oh she was so ready to go. But then against she didn't have the power to keep him here, now did she.
(Lavinia Walters)
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[21:42] A'Neje simply stared at the scene... It looked as though they were communicating. But, through what means? A language he didn't understand? Telepathy?

It mattered little to him, in the end. To learn was what he came to do, and learned he did. Though, the strange light that peirced the demons made him question what exactly that was... He glanced between the group, attempting to keep his balance, pleading silently for knowledge behind the silence.
(A'Neje Dhoreci)
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[21:42] Fulfilment. Since Abaddon had been left off as the worst between the group in terms of injuries, so asking for food to consume was nothing far off from a cry at sustenance. The light pierced him, a brief moment happened where he felt he was on cloud nine.

The essence was strength; Nourishment. The energy provided by it satisfied his hunger, smirking.

"That was tasty. . .!"
(Abaddon Mal'phas)
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[21:53] {NARRATION} Whether they knew it or not, Drakanites who falter from their lineage were placed in schism since birth. The desire to become what they see in front of them now not possible without divine intervention.

"I cannot take you with me young Drakanite, and your kin here misunderstands me. I do not know where Ryujin is."

Flayre's wings spread. His rest was short lived, but enough to take him far away from this land once again. Perched up, the dragon would beat their wings once, sending a gust between them. A large piece of scale fell from his underbelly while doing so.

"Seek out a way to purifiy your blood then hone your connection with their spirit. That is all the guidance I can provide you!"

It beat again, and again until the dragon was hovering above! Aiming to the cliffside, Flayre let themselves dive down and with a current in their glide they flew back up in a magnificent show of themselves. Soaring away.
[21:57] Ryu begins to cry, something she hadn't really done as of late.. She watched as he took to the skies, denying her passage with him to where dragons go. A twinkling light could be seen in her eyes, it was a scale dropping from the dragon as it took off.

She felt as if she'd been smacked with a turret of wind at close range, the pressure was immense, the dragon was truly tired... they were lucky that it wasn't fully rested.

"My name is Ryu!"

She screams out approaching the fallen scale, she wanted to take a look at it. She wondered if Veles could keep her promise to give her scales.
(Ryu )