FOR YOU.

elice. blue lions student. toa affiliated.

[litaum]

for you, with love

ventusanimae​:

Between bouquets and flower crowns, gentle embraces, casual walks and studying until one or both of them fell asleep, Merric and Elice shared a fondness for spending time together in ways both planned and unplanned and organizing small events and surprises for each other here and there.

Much as he wishes it were not necessary in the first place, and firmly believes he would appreciate it without all that suffering, the way in which they had to wait, fight and sacrifice for the ability to have said time together was an eye opener for just how precious and valuable it is, and how he should treasure it, thankful and aptly aware of how lucky he is, what with many deprived of such privilege.

So when he receives an invitation from Elice to spend time together, Merric doesn’t even ask questions before accepting. However dutiful he may be - when she asks, everything else can wait.

As soon as he arrives at the agreed spot, there is a warm hand enveloping his; he smiles. She is hiding something from him it seems, but he plays along. “Hello, dear. My my, what is it that you’ve prepared today for us?…” At the reveal, his serene expression widens even more, and he plants a soft kiss on her cheek.

“You went to the trouble to organize all this for us? Well, how could I say no? Thank you.” He lets her lead him to the table, appreciating the simple but tasteful decoration. “How nice to find a moment for a break and some rest in between lectures and work. And above all else, to spend time with you.”

Time is a gentle thing, grueling all the same— Seconds can turn into hours and days shift into months. Despite it all, there are none that can take away the tranquility she feels as she scuffles through the teas and pulls out the chairs.

“It is the least I can do, truly. I found the preparations rather enjoyable.” Silks of blue drape her shoulders as Elice places herself in the seat across of Merric’s. The teacups in front of them will remain empty no longer as slim fingers reach for the pot centered right in between the two. “Allow me to prepare your cup,” she says softly. “I hope you enjoy it.”

Thus, she does exactly this. She pours Merric’s helping before her own, eyes of blue glued onto the teapot alone. With precision and care does the tea leave its side and enter the finely decorated cup. “Is this enough? If you’d like more, do let me know.”

The warm fragrance encompasses the space, finding her smile unable to leave her side. She would have it no other way. As she finishes pouring her own helping, the Altean princess leaves the pot off-centered so as to ensure their views are not obstructed. Elice’s fingers trace the top of the cup, content and satisfied.

Then, she looks back towards Merric. She does not sip her tea— Not yet. “I trust you are not over-exhausting yourself with all that work placed upon your hand. But.. Are you finding it fulfilling?”

[litaum]

princess power

gentlenekomata​:

The frigid temperature of Fhirdiad was something that Sakura has never felt before, but the curiosity and the complexity of the mission has certainly made the effort pretty useful: covered and almost unrecognizable, the young and petite princess found herself involved in a rather intriguing undercover mission, partnering with another beautiful princess – Elice Lowell, the beloved princess of Altea. The two of them have met not so long ago, during a tea party organized by some of the culinary staff and since that moment, the two princesses always found some time together to discuss about their roles and their personalities, which for sure was quite important for their folk: one thing they had in common, was the utter love for their people, especially when it came to do the best for the wellness of their country.

Because of their relationship and their position, they have been entrusted with a very delicate task, involving the safety of House Blaiddyd’s reputation, as well as saving from any kind of disillusion the poor King Rufus, who apparently got fooled by two beautiful ‘fake princesses’: Sakura knew both princesses and that certainly was a point in favor in order to unmask the two impostors. Her partner, Elice, said something about Corrin and since they both had to deal with this situation, the best idea that came in Sakura’s mind, was to find the perfect timing to approach the two fake princesses and gather as much information as possible, in order to confirm their fake identities and to use those information against them.

Walking side by side along the crowded alley, the small figure of Sakura was definitely standing out next to Elice’s figure. “It is very very crowded” she nodded, confirming Elice’s words, “But we must be careful, anyone can notice us and we do not want to draw any attention on us.” she concluded, listening to what the other princess had to reply.

Seeing that even Elice was agreeing with the importance of organizing their actions before actually getting into the scene, Sakura stopped for a moment, then she picked Elice’s pale hand and she dragged her out from the crowd, accidentally making the other girl touch a passer-by. She apologized as well, then explained the plan she was thinking.

“We need as much information as we can gather, from both of them” she lightly gestured, pointing at the direction of where the two princesses were heading. “I know for sure that most nobles have got a coat of arms of their family on a particular object –most of them on handkerchief.” She proceeded, hoping Elice was following her reasoning, “This way, we can maybe approach both of them and with an excuse we can ask about the handkerchief and quickly check it” she paused, pondering if the plan actually got some sense. “I can check on Celica, you can check on Corrin. I know it won’t be easy to find them alone… but since it’s so crowded today, maybe we have some chances!“ she lastly added, shiny eyes fixed on hers, as to hope she could actually agree with her bizarre plan.

“What do you think, Miss Elice?”

The implications of Sakura’s plan struck Elice like the shining sun on a warm day. From their discussions prior, the Altean princess had come to find her newfound friend’s smile inviting with words perfect to match. It came as no surprise, then, when she met with such a brilliant proposal in their current predicament.

“That is a very sound plan..! If we can cease even the smallest of opportunities to speak with them, we may very well be able to change this course’s tides.” Presently, the trio walked side by side. It was inevitable for separation in some manner. Sakura held a fair point, azure blues skimming the tight area. “You are quite right, though— The last thing I wish to do is draw attention to ourselves. We will need to be subtle in our encounters.” A singular small move could potentially foil the entire reason they were there in the first place. 

She brought forward her focus onto Corrin, the silhouette focused intently on the goods of a market stall. While Elice was rather unfamiliar with the markets of Fhirdiad, all such things held a similar air— The loud words of sellers and eager eyes of buyers. Perhaps during a time when she was looking at items would be the best opportunity to approach.

“This Lady Corrin appears rather focused on something, but I cannot make out what it is from here.” What she might be purchasing was hardly the most important thing on her agenda, but even a spare moment of aloneness may prove enough. However, her difficulty stood in getting to her. She turned back to Sakura as she said, “If we act familiar with the premise, we may be able to sneak through the crowds.” She imagined it would make them stand out if they appeared to be newcomers.

[litaum]

to the beginning / team guard finale (team 4)

aimlessarchery​:

Elice soothes their bodies and spirits with her healing, and Ashe opens up a path with his sharp shooting. Torn and broken by the nightmares that came before them, the village walls finally appear surmountable. It’s all far too convenient for what is otherwise such a desperate bid for victory. As if on cue, shadows from above appear and darken the stygian sky even further. Balfor’s birds. Python’s stunner buzzes with energy. There’s no hesitation when he looses a bolt toward the feathered shape looming above.

Python attacks Aislinn (Black Giant Bird 5,14) from (6,13) with Stunner: 1d20+4 roll: 7. Hit! (-6HP) Aislinn’s HP: 4/10. Aislinn (5,14) is Stunned for 1 Round!

A breath close to a scoff passes his lips as the beast drops from the sky. A dangerous streak of cockiness flares in his chest. If they all go down that easily, maybe this really can be done.

Brown Giant Bird (7,15) moves to (7,13) and attacks Python for -2HP Python’s HP: 5/10

Talons rake into his back and rip the confidence right from his spine. He grasps desperately for his weapon—the usable one—and fires a desperate shot that buries itself into his assailant’s wing. It screeches and lunges again, its great beak raking against his armor.

Python counters with Guard Bow: 1d20+4 roll: 13. Hit! -5HP Brown Giant Bird’s HP: 5/10 Giant Bird attacks again for -2HP Python’s HP: 3/10 Python counters with Guard Bow: 1d20+4 roll: 18. Critical Hit! -5HP Brown Giant Bird’s HP: 0/10 Brown Giant Bird (7,13) is defeated!

Another arrow finds the bird’s chest this time, finally grounding it for good. Python watches the creature fall limp, his own breaths heaving as its become still. Desperation fills his chest in the space where confidence had dared to try to make a home moments ago. And then—a surge of light. A pair of shooting stars seek him from further out in the darkness and attempt to mend his wounds.

Byleth heals Python with Physic: 1d20 roll: 1. Bad Heal! (+1HP) Python’s HP: 4/10 Leif casts Physic on Python. 1d20 roll: 9. Decent Heal! (+2HP) Python’s HP: 6/10.

The desperation remains, but it’s coupled now with the momentum to move forward. The buildings housing their comrades come into full view, and Python finds himself leading the charge. Someone has to wake them from their hopeless little dreams, after all. The stunner reawakens as if in agreement. He points it toward the woman accompanying Celephais, intent to silence her before she can pull any of her magical tricks on them.

Team 4 spends 2 AP to move from (6,13) to (8,13) Python attacks Tieve (10,11) from (9.12)  with Stunner: 1d20+4 roll: 8. Hit! (-3HP) Tieve’s HP:5/10. Tieve is Stunned for 1 round!

“Nothin’ personal,” he mumbles. Then, louder, to his teammates, “You folks ready to bring this home? Because I sure am!”

They have waited so ever patiently to reunite with their comrades as the world around them shifts amidst slumbering eyes. While Ashe and Python aim at their foes, it is clear that their resolve matches her own. Rather, Elice almost finds herself compelled to heighten her own. She commends their effort, only keeping as such to herself for the sake of their environment.

She nods in Python’s direction, hands gripped tightly around her staff. “I am, as well. We mustn’t falter.” Python’s stunner precisely targets Tieve, rendering her into a state beneficial for their group. Nearest her is Celephais, roaming freely and readily. Perhaps Elice can do something about it— After all this time, the blizzard magic at her disposal knows what it must do. In order to protect everyone, its icy cold touch must reach Celephais.

Taking in a breath, the princess steps closer towards Python and Ashe— Magic swiftly leaves her side, heading straight first onto Celephais. It lands effortlessly, as if it knew right from wrong.

Elice attacks Celephais from (9,12) with Blizzard: 1d20 roll: 17. Hit! -0HP. Celephais’s HP: 25/25. Celephais is Frozen for 1 phase!

To freeze a target meant allowing everyone else an opportunity to get closer— That is her goal, lest she dare to forget it. “This should make this much easier, would it not?” There is contentment in her voice, comradery ever at the present. Blues as bright as a clear sky turn back towards Ashe and Python, taking a step backwards in turn: “Now, shall we finish this?”

@fabledoath

[litaum]

princess power

A number of you are sent straight to Fhirdiad to warn King Rufus, only to arrive too late. The guards say that he is with two young princesses, a “Celica” and a “Corrin”, and are naturally aghast when they find out the truth. That said, this must be dealt with carefully: the king’s, nay, all of House Blaiddyd’s reputation is on the line, and an embarrassment of this magnitude would shame the family for generations to come. There is only one option: to don a variety of disguises as you follow after the king’s date night through the market district and separate him from the ‘princesses’. [Grants Heavy Armor +1]

The market is filled with life from young children eagerly peering to adults carefully making their purchases. Elice is familiar with Corrin after their most recent journey guarding the village, but it seems there is hardly much time for rest in the present. Fhirdiad is rather different than Rusalka and expectedly so— She doesn’t mind the change all so much, even if she is not here to venture. The king’s name is uttered as soon as the two enter the premise, gossip reaching high into the air.

Bringing gloved hands up towards her face, Elice cups them together as she offers a smile towards Sakura: “It’s rather crowded here, is it not? I can imagine why so many must gather here.” Her eyes shift left, then right— Whispers about Faerghus’ royalty reaches her ears as rumors fill of a ‘supposed’ Corrin and Celica.

From a distance is the supposed ‘date’ they are meant to follow. They are easy enough to spot as the people part ways for the three akin to a rippling sea. “We mustn’t draw attention to ourselves quite yet, but we should stay as close to them as we can. Perhaps it is best if we scope the magnitude of our task first before delving in.” At least, this is what she believed. The last thing she desires is to cause a commotion while so many eyes are watching. The princess’s unfamiliarity with Fhirdiad aside, she is curious as to who is truly accompanying the king.

A passer-byer brushes Elice’s shoulder, taking a step back in turn. “O-Oh..! My apologies.” A pause, attention back to her companion. “What do you think, Lady Sakura?”

@gentlenekomata

[litaum]

to the beginning / team guard finale (team 4)

The world feels as if it is shifting. No longer do they stand in the village, torn away from those they swore to protect in the first place. Their decision not to join Rusalka is an important one, sworn to their beliefs in the ways of allowing others to journey for themselves.

There is a swallowing to the metaphorical darkness lodging itself in the princess’s heart— Ripping her apart from all that she holds dear. The ominous light appearing from the village is a strange sight to behold, beckoning her to pursue her allies as soon as possible. Those left within the village need them.

They simply must get back to the houses as soon as they possibly can. Elice takes hold of her recover staff, turning to Python and Ashe as she casts its warm light onto them: “We mustn’t waste a single moment. I will keep you both safe, so.. Allow me to be your light as you fight through the darkness.”

Elice casts Recover on Python. 1d20 roll: 3 (+3 HP). Python’s HP: 7/10

Elice casts Recover on Ashe. 1d20 roll: 3 (+3 HP). Ashe’s HP: 8/12

The enveloping staff works efficiently, clutching it tightly into her hands akin to a most beloved treasure. The bows Ashe and Python wield are in fine, reliable hands. As long as she aids in the form of healing when necessary, they can continue forward. “There has to be an opening for us somewhere. Let us get going.”

@aimlessarchery @fabledoath

[litaum]

prosper

ashenprofessor​:

The weekend assault had been brutal for those defending the wall. The monsters had been getting stronger, doing more damage to both the wall and their allies. Yet there was still their sleeping charges to watch over for goddess knows how long and Byleth wanted to help however they could. Prepare for whatever came next. 

Glancing down the task list for the week, Byleth picks out one and heads to one of the village houses. Herbs hang in bunches from the ceiling and there’s a musty medicinal scent in the air. Elice is already there, gathering bunches of leaves from the resource baskets. 

“Hello Elice” They greet upon entering as they took a place next to them. “This village … ? It’s certainly unique.” Organising their thoughts a bit better, they continue. “ Maybe it’s the isolation but there’s something surreal about the way people react to what’s going on. They’re being attacked, yet they stay and just build up the defences. There’s crops but no-one eats. What is it which bothers you?”

Elice moves the leaves she holds towards the others already hanging in the air like a fine chandelier, bringing her attention back to Byleth. They have a point she strongly agrees with. The Altean princess feels she is missing a bigger picture but she cannot quite put her finger on it. “That has crossed my thoughts, as well.. It is as if they’re doing those tasks for the sake of keeping their minds at bay.”

The proposition from Perth is a nice thought, one might think. She does not wish for suffering, especially towards those she holds dear. They have already endured enough, but yet— “I was thinking.. To live in ignorance of hardships— Does that bring about happiness? How can you know you are truly happy without ever overcoming any obstacles?” It makes her think of growth and what comes with it. A person cannot achieve that without making strides.

She bends to shuffle through another basket, grabbing a bigger handful than before. “Perhaps I am speaking far too much. I yearn for peace much like others do, but I wish not to blind myself to the truth if I can help it.”

[litaum]

prosper

Dry herbs [Max 3 muses per thread] - Trades 1 basket of herbs for 1 medicine per post - Faith rank grants higher potency to concoctions. D = 1HP, C = 2HP, B = 3HP, A = 4HP, S = 5HP.

The nights are beginning to feel longer, somehow— There is not a singular word that can describe the feeling. She does not know what the next day may bring. Nobody does. After such unruly sights continuously infiltrated the village, Elice knows it is best to be prepared. It feels like it is never enough even as her hands wish to make it so.

There is little time to spare, for she is sure it is best to work methodically and effectively. Still, it would prove pointless were she to work so fast that she makes a mistake.

It is nice to have company— A person to talk with as baskets of resources circle herself and Byleth. Elice bends forward to reach into one of them, taking hold of any leaves she can find.

“..May I ask you something?” She fills the air with her voice, hint of concern prevalent. “What are your thoughts? On this village, that is.” She brings a leaf up to meet blue irises as if to study it before she adds, “If I am to be honest, I have begun to feel rather.. uneasy as of late.”

@ashenprofessor

[litaum]

to step as one​

ashenprofessor​:

Corrin’s theory was an interesting one and sounded plausible to the professor. They recalled the magical adventures many of them had gone on a few months ago within the pages of a story book and how real those wounds had seemed at the time. Maybe it was a similar situation here but with dreams instead. 

“It may be impossible but I’d feel more at peace knowing it wasn’t something of this reality attacking them” Byleth told Roy. “I’d prefer to ensure no wounds are obtained due to negligence on our part”

The professor had always felt a degree of responsibility, needing to look out for their fellow member of Jeralt’s mercenaries, however this had only multiplied since becoming a teacher and now being accountable for the students in their care. 

“I have some healing powers, perhaps I could try” Focussing on one of the sleeping bodies, Byleth attempted to cast a simple cure spell. No physical change occurred and the usual rush of magic leaving their person, like there was something blocking it. “It’s not working” They said deject-ably “Looks like those healing crystals are all we got”

Time wore on but Byleth kept a sharp eye out for any disturbances.  

@litaum​

If these are wounds from their dreams, it pains her to think of what sights they may be seeing to cause such things. Still, they all speak the truth— As far as she can tell, there is nothing she can do until they re-merge with everyone else.

As she watches the warmth of Byleth’s healing magic encompass someone, she opts to cast her own efforts to the side upon noticing its ineffectiveness. If the professor’s admirable talents were not able to do anything, Elice doubts her own will prove any more powerful.

A tiny sigh leaves her lips, only for her to hear. “I see.. While those in slumber may not know it, I’m sure they would appreciate your efforts all the same, Professor. They cannot see or hear us at present, but I hope our feelings reach them.” If not today nor tomorrow, then someday. She knows— has witnessed, rather, that they are all doing their best.

Roy has just a strong a point— The village is in just as much disarray and it would be a complete oversight were they to neglect the place they presently stand. “Indeed. What we are doing now is our utmost. We cannot change what has been done, but we can keep moving forward.” A pause as she adds, “When they do awaken.. I wonder how they will feel. What they may think.”

@ofdusk

[litaum]

back in the saddle | team guard village defense [ team 1 ]

ulircursed​:

     The call comes, and Andrei knows he is far from ready. As he’d feared, the week of rest had helped little in the way of healing, and he is all too aware of each sensation of pain that laces through his body with every step he takes — drags himself, almost — towards the village walls.

     (You will not fail. You must not fail.)

     He does, at the very least, hold his favored bow instead of Rienfleche in his hand as he ascends to the top of the wall, from where he could see a small cluster of the shadowy monsters gathering at a small distance; one advances further than the rest, slamming into a nearby section of wall with a solid rumble.

     Shaking hands begin to make an attempt to draw his bow when another man appears atop the wall, bringing with him sparking light in the form of a bow. The closest enemy explodes into sparks, taking care of their immediate threat at the moment. Andrei glances back to see the wielder of the lightning bow, Professor Python, and his lets out a slow breath, relieved. Generally laid-back attitude aside, he’s only ever known the older man to be reliable in the midst of danger.

     Then his line of sight meets someone else, much farther in the distance, just in time for the warmth of healing magic to wash over him, followed by a determined gaze that had become all but familiar over the past few weeks, a yell that seems threat and warning and something like concern.

leif uses physic on andrei (14): +4hp healed! andrei hp: 6/10

     Don’t underestimate me. Andrei turns, away from whatever pity or righteousness Leif harbored, and finds the point in the wall that leads closest to the ground below, outside the village’s protection. It’s the only way he’ll reach those enemies before they can approach the walls.

     He jumps down.

     The landing sends a shock coursing up Andrei’s legs, but he quickly recovers, turning towards the nearest monster, now within his range.

andrei attacks green slime (17,7) from (15,7) with brave bow (10, 13): 4 damage green slime hp: 0/3 green slime is defeated! andrei receives 3 yellow dream crystals!

(It’s not enough. Do more. Be more.)

andrei attacks green slime (17,6) from (15,6) with brave bow (2, 9): 2 damage green slime hp: 1/3 andrei attacks again (1, 13): 2 damage green slime hp: 0/3 andrei receives 3 green dream crystals!

     Andrei’s bow slips in his grasp too much more than he would like, but the enemies crumble away like all the others, eventually. He chances a glance back, at the two allies still atop the wall.

     (He might need help returning to the top of the wall.)

     Not now. Not when there’s still enemies to face, when he can still do more in defense of the village. He will not fail.

@litaum

It is difficult to be fully prepared for such ordeals. When she looks up at the sky, she sees darkness. When she looks down, it is akin to a mirror image. It seeps and sinks until it is satisfied. She knows this— Senses it. If she can help it, she will not allow that to continue. There are important people to be concerned over— So much that she retains her willingness to place them above herself. Elice holds no desire to retreat while her comrades are fighting with their utmost.

She stands in wait, blue irises captivated as she watches the two fight with utmost strength. Elice could intervene, certainly, but she opts against it. What if she makes a mistake like she already has once? Combative magic is important, but has never been her place of strength. Instead, she prefers to offer a more gentle and caring touch of life. 

The last thing Elice desires is to become a burden on those who are now her allies— Companions, should she desire to use a stronger word. Andrei’s actions hold resemblance towards Leif’s from prior times, she thinks. They both had charged forward, dismissing the wall for the sake of ridding the slimes’ presences. Paralleling circumstances aside, the situation calls for her to remain attentive. Even if her feet are firmly planted, there is not a guarantee nothing will occur in her immediate vicinity.

There is no place for her to insert much conversation (not that she would desire such), but she is able to release words of optimism as she keeps her distance, wall acting as a barrier. “You are both so strong,” she calls. “But please, keep your own safety in mind.”

[litaum]

to step as one​

ashenprofessor​:

Byleth was beyond annoyed with themselves. For all their ‘experience’ in the field with missions and guard duty yet they’d failed when it mattered. How could they have not thought to patrol in the past week or at least check that someone else was. A rookie mistake. 

Looking down at their slumbering companions, each wound on their person was a direct consequence of their negligence. Instead they’d been off doing chores, crafting weapons and even playing cards! 

“We’ll have to make up for it now and do our upmost to protect them” Byleth said, determinedly. The professor agreed to Corrin’s plan. “I’ll take this corner” they say, walking over to take up position. “Do you know what we might see?”

In response to Roy’s question, Byleth hummed thoughtfully. “I don’t know. We could ask him” They suggested as they kept watch from their corner over their sleeping allies. 

@litaum

Elice nods in agreement, following suit to her companions. “I would like to heal them, if I am able. I’d rather they not get hurt at all, but..” A pause, purposefully interrupting her words. “I’ll take the remaining corner, in that case.”

She is sure the injured had suffered, but the degrees and causes continue to evade. There is silence in the room for a moment as if to absorb the intensity. If she was able to stay static and merely watch over her love, she would. She doesn’t know what is going on in the sleeping minds, only praying that they are safe and sound. Alas, such solemn thoughts are not allowed to prosper as she cannot stay in a singular spot forever.

The quiet is broken both with her own thoughts and the presence of Perth. With Roy’s question in mind, she agrees— If he knows anything, it is best to ask outright. And that she does, taking it upon herself to inquire: “Ah, excuse me. If I may.. Perhaps you can fill us in on information we may be lacking towards those who found themselves hurt?”

He explains that while he may not have seen it himself, he had sent a number of villagers within the houses while the assault took place for shelter. According to two of them, they had logged the sight of convulsions amongst a handful of the slumbering faces before they bled. Still, there is no plain sight of what could have caused their injuries.

She brings a hand to her chin in contemplation, finding herself wondering about those who went into the homes. Elice eyes the rest of her group— A cue to allow them a space to intervene. “I see.. What do you all think?”

@ofdusk

[litaum]

to step as one

Patrol your companions’ quarters [Max 4 muses per thread] - Restore 1HP to houses per post - Can now talk to Perth during this task

Her soul tells her it is not one’s fault (for she is but a singular person, the village pulling them all in every which direction), but the heart speaks volumes of wonder. Was it those foes? Was it something she did not see? She does not know the answer to that. It is a grave oversight regardless, but she will not dwell on it. She wishes to prevent such mistakes from happening again for the sake of those she cannot speak with right now. That, and she has come to care for those she now stands by.

It is best to make this journey with a group— Byleth, Corrin, and Roy. All people she knows are reliable, allowing a tiny smile to sit upon her face despite the concerns. If she does not show optimism, she fears nobody else might. The last thing she wants is to see any happiness wiped. “We can do nothing about what has already occured, but we can stand tall in the here and now,” she begins with a triumph to her voice. While Elice is not one to shy away from her thoughts, the passion she feels is stronger than ever.

She must keep this up. Elice clasps her hands together, taking in a deep breath. “.. How shall we begin? I’m concerned for what the medic has told us, but..—” Her words drift, eyes slightly downcast.

@lionsword @ofdusk @ashenprofessor

[litaum]

prevail — team guard weekend two ( team four )

diadic​:

(tw: body horror)

   “ I’m fine! ”  Leif calls back, catching the crystals that fall from Elice’s attacks. A flurry of snowflakes touch the prince in a similar fashion, a pretty sight after the violent demises their foes had just handled.  “ Good job. It looks a bit clearer now… ”

But that was not to last. The night was only just beginning, and though there were forests all around the village, something else creeps out from amongst the trees… something in between tree and human, something grotesque.

“ ?! What IS that?!?! ”

The stench of old corpses hits and permeates the air, growing closer, menacing in their approach as limbs with dead flesh stick out of bark like disjointed limbs on. Or wait, is it more accurate to say that the tree was growing out of the human being, roots shooting out of palms and pelvises as a trunk forces its way through the person’s neck, reaching higher and higher?

Could this even be considered human? Could this even be considered alive just because it is moving? The tree is every bit as dead as its host, but it is still able to move, rising from underneath the earth like vengeful spirits escaping their tombstones.

They all walk atop the land of the dead, so it would seem.

Corpse Trees spawn at (11,18), (18,9), (14,2) and (2,11).

“ Change of plans, Elice! We’ve got compa— ”

Corpse Tree attacks Leif (16,9) from (18,9). 1d4 roll: 3. Hit! (-2HP) Leif’s HP: 6/10. Corpse Tree attacks Leif at (16,9) from (18,9). 1d4 roll: 4. Hit! (-2HP) Leif’s HP: 4/10. Corpse Tree attacks Leif at (16,9) from (18,9). 1d4 roll: 4. Hit! (-2HP) Leif’s HP: 2/10.

He doesn’t finish that call. Branches quickly grow and shoot out from that husk, having Leif in its sights, and Leif tries to stifle his cries, but as attack after attack lance through his own body like its own personal pincushion, Leif screams at last as the third onslaught pierces through his shoulder, almost making him lose his grip as he’s trying to climb back over the wall again and back to safety.

“ Damn it…!! ”

He clenches his teeth, giving himself one final push, and when he makes it over the top, he flops onto the ground on the other side, rolling to a bit aways from where Elice stands.

“ We’ve gotta… We have to get up! Get inside! That thing— whatever it is, it’s going to break that wall soon!!! And there’s still more of the formless creatures coming too!! ”

He staggers as he pulls himself up, clutching the freshest wound as his body runs with blood and dirt, enough to cake him in both. His head looks frantically around, trying to quickly access their situation before all the walls come crashing down.

“ If we’re moving further in, we’ve got to check everyone sleeping or else this is all for nothing!! And that— agh, that damn Perth might give us our weapons back if we let him know what’s happening! Elice, after me! ”

He’s running, leaving a trail of crimson behind, but once he’s started moving, it’s as if it doesn’t hurt anymore. He needs to fix this. They needed something more if they were going to make it against the likes of those abominations…!

It is just as she feared. While she cannot see the immediate threats, she senses the urgency— Rather, it instills itself in her all the same. Leif runs ahead as he comes back into her line of sight, leaving his words lingering in the air. Before she can yell out to pause, Elice peers towards the ground below her. There is red, etching itself into a hardened memory. She cannot take away the new enemy, but she can fix this. She must, rather.

Elice can only imagine how much pain he may be in, his scream as piercing as a bright star in a dark sky. The sooner the better, certainly. She, too, greatly desires to check on those who are slumbering. No matter what, she can’t allow harm to reach those important to her. She’s sworn herself to this, but first, she must protect them.

“Wait, Leif..!” She cries out, following behind him. She sprints to catch up, keeping her sights set on what is ahead. For, if she looks back, she fears a mistake will be made (and she will allow no such thing).

Once she does catch up, she maneuvers herself to stand in front of him— Beckoning him to pause for just a moment. “Leif, please. You are injured. Let me help you. We cannot aid our sleeping companions if we don’t take care of ourselves, first.”

Taking in a breath, she works as rapidly as she is able. The healing magic leaves her side, primed at the ready.

Elice casts Recover on Leif. 1d20 roll -> 16. +6 HP. Leif’s HP: 8/10.

“There,” she opts to say with a softened tone. She doesn’t want to make the situation worse. “Now.. We can continue.”

[litaum]

prevail — team guard weekend two ( team four )

diadic​:

    The moon comes and brings with it the creatures of the night again, but this time, they still lack their weapons. Rusalka wants them to assimilate to peace, to drop their weapons, but tonight proves that this may very well be a mistake. It is a miracle they have weapons at all, but after the dawn breaks, would they take these weapons away too?

Damn it. First they need to get back this night before they can think of that, but their situation isn’t exactly ideal. Leif’s just glad he had sensed that the previous incident would not be the last one and that he was able to craft and sneak all those weapons to everyone else.

“ Elice, right? ”

He turns the cleric at his side, patroling around the eastern house. He’d been waiting for another night like this, but now that it’s here, he doesn’t feel that much more prepared. But there isn’t a choice.

Slimes move. Wall Section 15 takes -2HP, Wall Section 17 takes -1HP.

The monsters are here.

“ We’ve got to do something! After me! ”

The wooden walls thud with the heavy forces battering against them, and Leif runs towards that sound, climbing and jumping the wall to bear his blade down on the formless creature that he knows is there.

Leif attacks Black Slime at (16,10) from (16,9)  with Steel Sword. 1d20 roll: 2. Barely Hit! (-0.5HP) Black Slime’s HP: 2.5/3 Black Slime counterattacks! (-1HP) Leif’s HP: 9/10.

His blade draws down through it, forced to fight close quarters, but this new distance means he’s forced to endure the way it beats back down on him too. It’s new, he misses the weight of his old blade or having more in his arsenal, but they don’t have the time for more nor the freedom for it.

They just have the pressure of the present, and he will persist…!

Leif attacks Black Slime at (16,10) from (16,9) with Steel Sword again. 1d20 roll: 11. Hit! (-1.5HP) Black Slime’s HP: 1/3 Black Slime counterattacks! (-1HP) Leif’s HP: 8/10.

He grits his teeth and slashes his new sword again, letting steel slash down on his foe outside the walls but it’s not enough. But it doesn’t have to be.

He’s just the opening act, after all.

“ Elice! ”  he calls out and back, trusting in her to be behind that wall.  “ Now! ”  // @litaum !

It is safer behind the walls. She knows this, her footing remaining firm even as Leif heroically maneuvers over them. To give a fight one’s all and to stand tall is something she continues to find admirable in her peers. Elice yearns for an age where no such thing is needed, but it is not granted. Not here, anyways.

There is a part of her that feels guilty— While harm cannot easily befell her at present, the same cannot be said for her comrades in closer quarters. The thought alone brings a pain to the princess, but she knows this is for the best. Even if the skies are dark, there is always a light to be found. Upon Leif’s call, she begins to summon a spell. Last time, she found herself in a situation where she was unable. Now, however, Elice is different. She has knowledge. She has an ever-growing willpower. She has persistence. “Allow me.”

Elice (15,10) attacks Black Slime (16,10) with Blizzard. Roll -> 19. Hit. -1 HP. Black Slime has been defeated. Black Slime drops 2 white dream crystals.

Its form can no longer cause havoc. But, there is more to be done. Through cracks and breakages does she spot another in a range she cannot accept. She can’t allow for hesitation. The frozen magic leaves her side once more, propelling itself at another foe.

Elice (15,8) attacks Black Slime (15,7) with Blizzard. Roll -> 12. Hit. -1 HP and Black Slime is inflicted with Freeze. Black Slime is unable to counterattack.

Elice (15,8) attacks Black Slime (15,7) with Blizzard. Roll -> 12. Hit. -2 HP. Black Slime has been defeated. Black Slime drops 2 green dream crystals.

“Are you alright?” She says with a tone louder than usual. “That was much too close for comfort..”

[litaum]

New Week New Me

fabledoath​:

The princess can’t be blamed for such a question. Everyone has more questions than anyone can answer… And the more they learn, the more there is to ask, really.

“I’m not sure… usually, when it’s a monster or animal, it’s probably trying to defend its territory, or hunt for prey? Those things don’t look like they need to eat though… and I don’t think they’re animals, at all. Besides, the townspeople said this hasn’t really happened before, so, it’s something new…”

The dots don’t take long to connect.

“Just like… us being here. Maybe they’re here because of us. What if it’s our fault? If… someone gets hurt because we came…”

That was… a terrible thought. Were they the ones putting innocents in danger? If someone got killed because of them… Ashe felt he would not forgive himself for it.

The troubled thought kept him from working for another few more seconds, before he shakes his head and takes a deep breath. With a hammer from the tool stash, he digs into the wood with the pointy end, to pry a nail out from an old, broken board, saying nothing else.

When she brings Ashe’s words into perspective, it seems like a logical hypothesis. Should that somehow be true, she cannot imagine why. The group she arrived with has been nothing but kind to her and the villagers— Seeking to aid their sleeping companions and ensure their well-beings.

The last thing she wants to do is bring their conversation down a saddening path, noting Ashe’s own dismay at the thought. Elice feels the same, rather. If her presence is to blame for the ruckus, she loathes to think how it may have unintentionally hurt someone.

Leaving the toolbox behind, she grabs supplies of her own and mimics the actions of her companion. She doesn’t want to work in utter silence, not when there are words she can say to lighten the mood. At least, this is Elice’s intent.

“.. When we finished fighting that evening, may I share what I thought? I told myself.. I am lucky to be with such a strong group. So.. I think, while there is much we don’t know, we can embrace all that we do. Does that make sense?”

[litaum]

forest gacha

arcaeda​:

“of course!” she rushes to answer the woman’s question, the answer something she didn’t even have to think about. her cheeks flush just slightly as she relaxes her shoulders, realizing she’d responded so quickly.

“… i think knowing what would have happened i wouldn’t have so eagerly tried to make friends with the village, but it’s important that an army and its allies get along with each other. so… of course i feel the same way.” she lets out a sigh then glances up at elice with a vulnerable gaze — the lowells one of the only people she truly let herself go around. “that’s not wrong of me, is it? i refuse to believe it is.”

Elice matches with an expression of her own— Warmth and understanding. It pleases her to see how readily Caeda answers her question, certain of the answer. There is no doubt in Elice’s mind that she is right, for the princess herself believes strongly in alliance-ship. “It’s not wrong. I think similarly. Companionships are important. I cannot imagine staying here and not trying to forge any sort of alliance-ship with them.”

She lifts her free hand off her knee, moving it to give a light tap atop the queen’s shoulder. “It makes me just as happy when I look around and see the hard work everyone has managed. We have you to thank for this.”

As busy as they all may have been, she’s glad to have this moment of silence with her. Her hands find themselves atop a purple flower, but she is hesitant to pluck it. Elice opts to leave it alone— It is quite perfect where it already is.

[litaum]

forest gacha

arcaeda​:

“hehe, thank you elice.“ her face softens because elice is always right when it comes to the advice she’s given her before. she couldn’t have known this would be the outcome of her good deeds, that most certainly at least was true, so she shouldn’t beat herself up too hard over it.

“…i actually helped out the village for the most part with the rest of our allies.” she says as she kneels to pick at the natural foods left for the animals of the forest to eat. “so i wasn’t really thinking of much at all… i suppose how best to get along with them.”

She is always happy to help Caeda in what ways she can, allowing a gentle laugh to leave her own lips. She truly has reminded Elice of her brother— Kind and thinking of others. Admirable, heroic traits. It is an important thought, one she hopes is always held onto. Placing the bucket on the ground, the princess lowers herself and rests one hand on her leg while the other scours the tops of a bush.

“That in itself is vital. You’ve done an exemplary job.” Grabbing hold of a berry, she places it down in her bucket as she continues. It feels so light in her hand, almost as if it could leave her sights at any moment. “Do you feel the same way now? That we should all get along.”

[litaum]

forest gacha

arcaeda​:

going into the forests seems to be one of the only breaks she gets from the chief’s constant harrowing gaze, for the forest trees break the line of sight between the both of them. though she knows she won’t be left alone forever, it’s nice to have this bit of brief respite.

and with this brief respite, she accompanies lady elice into the forest to forage for food, similar bucket to hers in hand. elice is an oasis of comfort in this kind of environment, though caeda will try not to rely on her too hard regardless.

“hm?” her gaze rises to meet elice’s own worried one. “oh well… this isn’t the first time i’ve had to operate under this kind of pressure.” she admits easily, though remains cautious of spilling too many of her feelings. that elice shows any worry at all is enough to make her smile. “i’m alright, promise. rather, i feel sorry for everyone else. it seems to be my fault that rusalka has so eagerly accepted us…” she was the one that had lead the effort to get the village to trust them, and look where they were now. to say it backfired on them would be an understatement.

She may not be in the same position as her, but she sympathizes and understands all the same. Elice can hear the genuine nature in her words, much like she always had when they spoke. People are always ever-growing, adapting to what is around them and taking care of themselves. It is the same here, she thinks.

“Don’t blame yourself,” she begins. She speaks warmly. “It is not as if you would have known. Your intents were admirable. If anyone fails to recognize this, what they miss is the goodness in your heart.”

Sustaining a smile, her fingertips adjust themselves on the bucket’s handle. Her mind flutters to the week prior⁠— The smiles she exchanged with her new comrades. She hopes to share that very same feeling with Caeda. “When you were working earlier, what was on your mind? If you think about that, it might help.”