[OP-F10] The Silence of Passing Time

[Nari-Lanreth 0]

The tenth floor was always so quiet, most of the area empty. Whatever civilisation had once occupied the area had long ago left the places of residence, of business behind. Leaving nothing more than ghosts of the past in their wake. She'd come to enjoy strolling through the empty streets of the main settlement, the peace and quiet laying over her in ways that she didn't find at home. Although Yuki seemed to dislike the area, Nari had dragged her back again and again, enjoying the presence of the fox regardless of its discomfort. 

"You may not like it Yuki...but there's something about this floor that is just...peaceful. In a way that home isn't." Nari reached down to pet the small fox, ruffling the fur slightly as she glanced around the wall that she had perched herself on. The area around looked like most other places - desolate, abandoned, empty. Somehow, thought, it still felt more alive than home ever did these days. That's because it doesn't have her smell...her memories...

She forced her mind away from it. They were gone, many of the players that she had once called friends. Some might reappear eventually - that seemed to happen once in a while, but it had been a long time since she'd heard from any of them. She'd begun to doubt that she would see any of them, ever again. Well, aren't we just a bundle of absolute joy today...

She scowled at the internal voice, choosing to ignore it rather than instigate it. She'd spent far too long arguing with it lately, far too long trying to convince it to say anything else. The doubts, the sorrow, the self-pity. She was tired of all of it. She needed away from it. A place of solace that she could escape to, to get away from all the horrors that were...Aincrad.

Spoiler

 

Statblock

Nari-Lanreth | Lv. 32 | P. 40 | HP: 840/840 | EN: 98/98 | ACC: 4 | DMG: 10 | MIT: 30 | Battle Healing [+44] | LD: 3 | BLEED: 48/2T
Tier 4 | Tier 8
Laurel Wreath (Earn Col equivalent to 15% of player’s EXP earned in thread).
+1 LD (This bonus only applies to looting, searching for and opening chests).

Equipped Items
Solitude's Sorrow [Scythe; Perfect] A long handled, two handed scythe with a curved blade. This piece contains a purple chain that wraps itself around where the shaft meets the blade, reminiscent of the weapon often pictured with the grim reapers of tales.
Enhancement: Accuracy [2 Slots] | Effect: Gain +(1 per slot) to the BD when attacking. Cannot be used to cause a critical hit.
Enhancement: Bleed [1 Slots] | Effect: Natural critical attack rolls of 9-10 (1 slot) or natural successful attack rolls of 8-10 (2 slots) deal (12 * Tier) unmitigated bleed damage each enemy turn for 2 turns. Bleed damage does not stack, but can be refreshed. The highest tier of Bleed damage overrides lower tier versions; cannot be overridden by lower-tier versions.

Music Box [Tier 1 Perfect Trinket]
Enhancement: Loot Die [3 Slots] | Effect: Gain +(1 per slot) to the LD.

Battle-Ready Inventory
Teleport Crystal {3}
Starter Healing Potions {4} | Heals 50 HP
Divinity's Wait {5} | Tier 2; Perfect Potion | Mitigation III
Divinity's Protection {5} | Tier 3; Perfect Potion | Overhealth III
Cold Brew Coffee {4} | Tier 1; Perfect Potion | HP Recovery III
Percephonius Pyratius {11} | Tier 4; Perfect Potion | Damage III

Sword Arts
[x12] ST-I (12 10 EN) | A single-target sword art.
[x15] ST-II (15 13 EN) | A powerful single-target sword art. Only available for use when ST-I was used and successfully struck an enemy the previous turn or if ST-II had been used and had missed the previous turn.
[x20] ST-B (20 18 EN) | A devastating single-target sword art. Can only be used if the sword art used the previous turn is not ST-B and had rolled a natural CD9+. When performing an AoE attack, use only the first roll.
[x11] AOE-I (11 9 + 2 * targets EN) | AOE | A sword art that strikes multiple targets at once.
[x14] AOE-II (14 12 + 2 * targets EN) | AOE | A powerful sword art that strikes multiple targets at once. Only available for use when AOE-I was used and successfully struck an enemy the previous turn or if AOE-II had been used and had missed the previous turn.
[x16] TECH-A (16 14 EN) | STUN | A single-target sword art that stuns an enemy.
[x16] TECH-B (15 13 EN) | DELAY | A single-target sword art that, on a successful strike, applies [Delay] on the enemy. [Delay] is a status condition that reduces the enemy’s ACC by 1 for one turn.
[x16] TECH-C (15 13 EN) | COUNTER | A single-target sword art that, on a successful strike, places [Counter] around the player. [Counter] reduces the final damage taken by its user by 25% (rounded down) for one turn.
[x16] TECH-D (15 13 EN) | SHATTER | A single-target sword art that applies [Shatter] to an enemy for 3 turns. [Shatter] is a debuff that can stack up to a cap of 3. Each stack of [Shatter] removes -20 MIT from an enemy, down to 0, if it has MIT.
[x12] TECH-F (11 9 + 2 * targets EN) | AOE STUN | A sword art that strikes multiple targets at once. All struck targets are stunned for one turn.
[x16] TECH-G (15 13 EN) | BURN | A single-target sword art that, on a successful strike, applies [Burn] on the enemy. [Burn] is a DoT ailment that deals [14 * Player Tier] unmitigated Burn damage for 2 turns.
[x2] RAW-A (10 8 EN) | THORNS | A single-target sword art that utilizes the [Thorns] of the individual against the enemy. Other types of enhancements that apply damage upon contact with the individual are also considered in improving the damage of this sword art (eg. Immolation Potion, Flame/Frost Aura, etc). Outgoing damage is considered mitigatable.  Must have a weapon equipped to activate this sword art.

Combat Skills
Battle Healing [Rank: 3. Active: Passive. Effect: While in combat, recover 1% per rank of your maximum HP (rounded down) at the beginning of your turn.]
Fighting Spirit [Active: Passive. Effect: Attacking and using Howl or Focused Howl generates +1 additional Hate. (Ex. Generate 1/2/3 Hate on a Miss/Hit/Critical attack. Generate 5 Hate when using Focused Howl.)]
Howl [Active: Post Action. Energy Cost: 2 EN. Effect: Adds +2 Hate each against up to 4 targets.]
[Howl Addon] Focused Howl [Active: Post Action. Energy Cost: 4 EN. Cooldown: 4 Turns. Effect: Adds +4 Hate against a single target.]

Weapon Skills
Polearm [Rank: 5. Active: Passive. Effect: +7 DMG]
[Rank 5 Weapon Addon] Stamina [Active: Passive. Effect: Reduces EN of all attacks by 2.]
[Rank 5 Weapon Addon] Precision [Active: Passive. Effect: Gain +1 ACC.]
[Rank 5 Weapon Addon] <<Weapon Type>> Focus [Active: Passive. Effect: Decreases minor critical threshold by 1. Also reduces DoT thresholds by 1. Players cannot use Focus and Ferocity at the same time for the same Weapon Type.]
[Rank 5 Shift] TECH Specialist [Active: Passive. Effect: For TECH Sword Arts, +4 to multipliers, +3 to EN cost. No other Shifts may be taken.]

Armour Skills

Light Armour [Rank: 5. Active: Passive. Effect: 30 MIT. Mitigation is capped at 2 slots.]
[Rank 3 Light Armour Mod] Meticulous [Effect: Gain +1 base Damage.]
[Rank 5 Light Armour Addon] Resolve [Effect: Gain +1 Accuracy and +10 * Tier HP.]

Active Extra Skills
Concentration [Active: Free Action. Cooldown: 5 turns. Effect: As a free action, gain Absolute Accuracy on your next attack. In the case Absolute Accuracy is already present, increase your Accuracy by 1 instead. Effect lasts until the start of next turn.]

Meditation [Active: Post Action. Cooldown: 3 turns. Effect: Recover an additional (4 * Tier) energy.]

Parry [Active: Post action. Energy cost: 9 EN Cooldown: 3 Turns. Effect: Apply the energy cost upon proc, not activation. Reduces the final damage of the next successful attack against you by 50% (rounded down) and negates stun/paralysis effects of that attack. If hit by multiple attacks, only apply parry to the first attack against you. Parry lasts for three turns. Cooldown starts when the player activates the Skill. If the player is hit when using Parry, the cooldown is reset to 3 turns.]

[Parry Mod] Vengeful Riposte [Active: Passive. Cooldown: 4 Turns. Effect: A successful Parry also returns 50% (rounded down) of the raw damage that would be dealt to you back to your opponent. The reflected damage can be mitigated by the opponent.]

Survival [Active: Passive. Effect: Increases Healing effects received from all sources by 10%. Grants immunity to all damage dealing environmental attacks/effects.]

Combat Mastery
Damage [Rank: 2. Active: Passive. Effect: Gain +1 * Tier additional Base Damage per rank. Ranks of this Skill obey Damage enhancement caps]

Familiar Skills
Protector Familiar [Active: Free Action. Cooldown: 3 Posts; Effect: The next time you would take damage, your familiar rushes to your aid, reducing the final damage by 10%.]

Estate Buffs
Master Bedroom [-1 energy cost for the first three expenditures of each combat.]
Master Bathroom [The first time you would suffer DoT damage in a thread, reduce damage taken from DoT each turn by 25% (rounded down).]
Dining Room [Turn 2 identical food items (same quality, tier, & enhancements) into a Lesser Feast. A Lesser Feast contains 4 portions of the food items sacrificed. Lesser Feasts created this way cannot be used outside of the thread they are created. Limit 1 item created per thread.]
Basic Kitchen [Increase the effectiveness of a single food item consumed in a thread by +1 T1 slot. This can exceed normal Cook enhancement caps. Ex: A perfect T2 MIT food gives 35 MIT instead of 30.]
Living Room [Increases out of combat HP regen by (5 * Tier HP) and decreases full energy regen to 2 Out of Combat Posts.]
Attic (Storage) [+5% bonus col from monster kills and treasure chests]
Storage Closet [+1 Battle Ready Inventory Slot]

Profession(s)
Grand Master Forager [Rank 5]

 

[Hirru 0]

How long has it been?  Time seemed to flow so oddly from the norm, at least that's what the jade haired hunter thought, as he walked through the silent streets of Yomi.  It seemed to be that time of year once more, where the streets were slowly reverting back to normal after the holiday season.  Only during the last couple weeks of the tenth month, a slightly livelier tone could be felt from the central square and the main roads leading in and out of the town.  Normally, there is no light nor any sense of life on the floor, even in Yomi.  Everything is a spirit or undead type mob.  Though, during this time, it seems even spirits want to celebrate a day.  The main street and square are lit up just slightly with little lanterns and carved pumpkins.  It's almost like someone still lived here, but there is no one here.  Even the skeletal dragon guardians seemed to have a slight change to them, but Hirru could never tell the differences.

Though, that all changes back as the 'day' ends.  Slowly, the lanterns fade out, and the pumpkins rot away and dissolve into particles.  The only place with anything left is the central tree that is shedding its leaves during this time of the year.  A few lanterns still light the square, but the glow is fading and will soon be nothing more but a memory, as is what this entire town is.  Just a forgotten dream.

He didn't feel like having his search skills on, as there is no one that would ever come to this floor, without good reason.  It's just a dead floor with nothing but darkness covering the entirety of it.  At least, with Yomi, the figments of the shades seem to give off an odd glow.  The same glow seemed to fill the town itself, so it more or less was a dimly lit place.  The only proper light was the flickering flames that were slowly dying in the last two lanterns upon stone walling that surrounded the central tree.

Hirru looked around the area, but there was no one else in the vicinity.  The two kids didn't seem to be here this year, which could only mean that there wasn't anything going on, or that he was late.  Either way, he was here in time to watch the final lights fade.

"I guess there wasn't an event this year.  Would have liked to vent more to that flower.  I wonder if it is growing well off of that verbal thrashing."

He chuckled as he sat down with his back to the wall, looking up at he falling leaves.  Sighing, he let his eyes close.

Hirru stats
 

Spoiler

Hirru | HP: 920/920 | EN: 104/104 | DMG: 1 | MIT: 122 | BH: 46 | HLY BLS: 36 | MENDING: 2 | REC: 8 | THRNS: 36

Hirru Lvl 32 (PL 58)

920 HP (+220 PL)
104 Energy (+22 PL)
1 Base Damage
5% Battle Healing
8 Recovery
122 Mitigation
32 Thorns
4% Holy Blessing
20% Life Mend

Equipment

Paladin's Oath ..................... // +4% Holy Blessing / +20% Life Mending
Light's Embrace .................... // +8 Recovery / 32 Thorns
Bulwark ............................ // +72 Mitigation
Blades Cloak ....................... // Vanity
Lun'Rael's Insignia ................ // Unique Vanity |
Fates Armament (Shield) ............ // Unique Vanity | 
Dimensional Backpack ............... // +1 B.R.I Slot

Battle Ready Inventory

<Teleportation Crystal> x5 ......... // Teleport to a town / out of a dungeon [Uses 2 posts: 1 for use, next to teleport]
<Favor of the Golden Dragon> ....... // +3 Loot Die
<Betrayal of the Fallen Knight> .... // +12 Damage
<Mass HP Recovery Crystal> x5 ...... // +10% AOE Heal
<Empty>
<Empty>

Skills

Heavy Armor ........................ // Rank 5: +35 MIT
Battle Healing ..................... // Rank 5: +5% HP each turn
Search ............................. // Rank 5: +5 Loot Die / +5 Stealth Detection

Extra Skills (Max 4)

First Aid .......................... // Rank 5: +20% ST-H / -15 EN
Leadership ......................... // Rank 5: Command the Front w/ Buffs

Skill Mods / Addons (Max 5 Mods)

Iron Skin (Add on) ................. // +15 Mit / +60 HP
Field Medic (Add on) ............... // +25% AOE-H / -15 EN / 3 turn Cooldown
Hyperactive (Add on) ............... // +3 EN Regen for 3 turns / -5 EN / 3 turn Cooldown
Reveal (Add on)..................... // +2 to Dungeon, Labyrinth searches / Post 10 searches / 3 turn Labyrinth Cooldown

Barrier ............................ // -15% Dmg shield AOE / -15 EN / 2 turn Cooldown
Energize ........................... // +8 EN ST / -10 EN
Rally .............................. // +1 ACC AOE, -1 ACC self / -6 EN / 3 turn Cooldown
Press The Attack ................... // +(Target Tier) Dmg, -(Cumulative)Dmg / -10 En / 5 turn Cooldown
Detect ............................. // +1 to Labyrinth searches | +2 Stealth Detect

Housing Buffs

Rested ............................. // -1 EN for 2 uses
Relaxed ............................ // OOC HP regen 5*tier Rec EN after 2 turns
Filling ............................ // Increase food by +1 T1 slot
Multipurpose ....................... // +1 LD, Stealth, Dection, or Prosperity to 1 post
Practiced Angler ................... // +2 EXP & +1 LD & CD to attempts

 

Edited November 5, 2022 by Hirru

[Nari-Lanreth 0]

Nari's ears picked up the sound of another voice, and she felt herself freeze slightly as she tried to place the sound. It had been a long time since she'd heard a voice that was unfamiliar, let alone one that very clearly wasn't an NPC's voice. She glanced around, looking for where the voice could possibly be coming from, feeling herself slowly slipping off the wall in an attempt to disappear into the shadows a bit more. She pulled up her menu, keying into the inventory before drawing the spear from its depths. 

The weight of the weapon comforted her, reassuring her in its presence. She sighed heavily, before straightening. Freaking out over nothing...more likely than not, it's nothing more than another player passing by. I should just go out and say hi... She stopped midstep as she remembered where she was. There shouldn't be anyone else here - hadn't been anyone else here in the weeks that she had been making her way to the floor. Only one way to find out...and hope its not a death guild, or player-hunters...

She stepped around the corner, raising her spear comfortably in her hand before calling out every so slightly. "Hello? Anybody else out there? I thought I...heard a voice."

She waited, wondering if anyone would answer her call, or if she'd just realise that she truly was, alone. Alone, like you've been for a while now... She shook away the voice, continuing to peer into the darkness around her, a hope rising that she hadn't felt in a long time. A hope that there was someone else out there. That she wasn't alone. That she didn't need to be...

Edited November 5, 2022 by Nari-Lanreth

[Dazia 0]

The Tenth Floor of Aincrad...

The year before, there was an apparent Monster Overpopulation scenario going on, in which Dazia and her much hated sister, Haimi, would attempt to cull the population. Whether it happened again this year or not has yet to be seen, but the apparent presence of some final traces seemed to show that whatever Dazia had come for, she was too late.

If only she hadn't gotten stuck in that cavern in the upper floors.

Dazia didn't want Haimi to have anything to gloat about, because if she did, then no one will ever be able to hear the end of it. However, Dazia's training was lacking severely and there was much elimination that she missed out on. Life, death, black, white, love, hate. Many things seem to oppose each other, and yet somehow the world is believed to exist in a gray scale. Dazia was growing restless, she needed some new motivation for herself...and maybe some more enemies to pour her growing wrath upon, maybe even some targets to assassinate.

She never worked with a guild until now, but not even a killer guild would suit her, as she'd probably much rather prefer to kill them instead. All of her targets have been non player entities so far, which was good for her cursor, but she didn't know how long it could help her hold out against her own self.

She began to reminisce about every player she'd killed so far, and the last things she heard from each one.

"...You...you really hate Humanity that much? Ha....I guess I was protecting them, by challenging you...I'm sorry everyone, I have...failed you all..."

"How could you do this...you monster..."

"I'll see you in Hell, you merciless bitch..."

"It would seem that we both made poor choices today...I'll see you in Hell, then..."

 

...How pathetic.

They never saw her as someone seeking to survive, they only saw a monster. Krysta also saw only a monster, same with that one player that essentially made the fourth floor impassable without some kind of disguise...

But they never cared about Dazia, they only cared about themselves and their agendas. Most of humanity pretends to care about someone other than themselves, but the moment someone steps out of line...it's either death, or lock 'em up and throw away the key. Detestable.

Dazia only began to act "selfishly" because what's the point of caring about others if almost everyone else are self-centered fools who deserve to die? It's been too many years since Dazia was really, genuinely willing to give a f*ck. As sad as it was, it would be foolish to keep dwelling on it.

...And yet, she wanted to kill again. Not just some random monster, but a more important figure, something that she could actually connect to her past and her hatred, so that she might finally find a way out that doesn't involve excessive player-killing...maybe she should become a PK-ker, earn herself a gray reputation that might still help her avoid being hunted down by the foolish.

All of which were potential thoughts that wouldn't stop crossing her mind.

 

But then her train of thought was interrupted by the sound of a male player's voice. Dazia drew her weapon and fled to the nearest cover. She then heard the sound of a female player, asking if anyone was there. Dazia remained, silent, with her blade drawn on the off chance that it was a threat. The sound of a weapon unsheathing might have given away her presence, but definitely not her position.

She wouldn't dare try to step out until she knew for sure that there wasn't a threat of any kind in the vicinity.

ID# 209935 LD: 17+5=22

Stealth Value: 22

 

 

Stats and Equipment:

Spoiler

Level: 32

Paragon: 10(Paragon stat changes: +40 HP, + 4 EN)

Paragon Level 5 - Laurel Wreath (Earn Col equivalent to 15% of player’s EXP earned in thread)

 

Battle Stats:

HP: 680
EN: 86
DMG: 23(SS R5[7], Combat mastery: DMG[12], Athletics[1], SS Ferocity[2])
MIT: 44(Cloth Armor R5[20], Raven Shade[24])
ACC: 3(Shadow Fury[1], Soaring Shadow[2])
EVA: 4(Raven Shade[2], Soaring Shadow[1], Nimble[1])
LD: 1(Nimble)
Fallen: +8 DMG on nat BD 6-8

 

Additional Factors:

+5 LD on Stealth rolls(Hiding R5)

 

 

Equipment:

[T4] Shadow Fury(Fallen, ACC)

[T4] Raven Shade(1 MIT, 2 EVA)

[T1] Soaring Shadow(2 ACC, 1 EVA)

 

Consumables:

Teleport Crystal x1

 

 

Skills:

Straight Sword R5(30 SP)

Cloth Armor R5(30 SP)

Combat Mastery: Damage(13 SP)

Extended Mod Limit(10 SP)

 

Shift: AoE(10 SP)

 

 

Extra Skills:

Hiding(30 SP)

Meditation

Survival

 

 

Mods:

Athletics(4 SP)

Untraceable(4 SP)

Blindside(4 SP)

Vanish(6 SP)

Surprise Attack: Assassin(6 SP)

 

 

Addons:

SS Ferocity(6 SP)

Nimble(6 SP)

 

Edited November 5, 2022 by Dazia

[Hirru 0]

The sounds of a woman's voice called out in the distance.  Although the murmur of the dead were not that uncommon, they were not that clear to begin with.  Just moans and cries, really.  No, this one was inquisitive and farther away from the center of town.  Hirru wasn't really expecting anyone to be coming here, especially one of the worst floors to venture into without night vision.  Unfortunately, Hirru never learned that modular skill.  Although, what he did have was a certain set of skills to find the unknown.

Getting up, his quick change allowed his equipment to be set in an instant.  Shining silver armor, like that of a paladin.  An angelic shield to ward off evil and to heal wounds.  The only thing off was the red gauntlet that carried over from his old armor.  In all, he looked like a tank.  In reality, he was a healer with heavy resistances.  His search skills immediately activated sending and receiving information throughout the main part of the town.  Before long, two pings would send him all the information he needed.  So far, there were two person, other than himself.  He lowered his guard, but kept his helm on.  The other one seemed to be hiding, while the other wasn't doing so much.  It would be better to let the other know where he was, even if the hider wants to stay in the shadows.

"Central Square!  Don't worry, we're in a safe zone.  Even if this place don't feel like it."

Spoiler

Search Roll (Stealth search)
[ID: 209937][LD: 15+8=23] Hirru knows someone is hiding.
Multipurpose used 1/1

 

Edited November 5, 2022 by Hirru

[Nari-Lanreth 0]

The call came back from a distance, that much Nari was certain. It took her a moment to recognise the words, calling her towards the central square - an area that she passed when she first came to the floor. She'd seen no signs of anyone there previous, which meant that they had likely arrived after her. And it sounds like a player's voice...it doesn't have that NPC feel to it...

Not that she could be entirely certain until she arrived at the square. It was a risk - but what in this game wasn't? Turning to look at Yuki, she nodded towards the way they had come. What do you say, should we give them a chance?

---

The square itself had appeared empty as Nari rounded the corner, her eyes searching for whomever had called out. It didn't take long to spot the knightly figure in the distance, however. The sole other individual, in fact, in the entire empty area. Raising her left arm to wave, she held the spear off to the side in a - hopefully - innocent and non-aggressive looking way.

I'm guessing you were the one calling out? It's...odd, to see someone else around here. Usually this floor is empty. Devoid of life...nice and peaceful for that, mind you. Her eyes scanned over the other player, noting the heavy armour build, the stance, and their expression. Everything bespoke of someone who was ready for a fight - and yet she had the odd feeling that they didn't want to fight. Nari-Lanreth, by the way. My name. But you can call me Nari.

She waited, wondering if the other player would respond. Wondering if they were willing to stay and talk, or if they'd be like everyone else. At least they have a green cursor, that's always a bonus when meeting people in an open area, who you don't know. She pushed the thought aside, ignoring the sarcastic tone for the moment. She was taking a risk, and she knew it. She didn't need the reminders.

[Dazia 0]

So far, there didn't seem to be anyone trying to point out Dazia's position, but she had yet to see anyone look at her with the expression that showed that she'd been found. Dazia still gripped her weapon in her left hand, she would proceed with caution, ready to strike out at the nearest threat.

She heard a call, saying "Central Square", noting that it was a safe zone and while it didn't feel like one, there was no need to worry.

But anyone with enough sense would know that all it takes is a strong enough grasp to pull, and a future victim would be taken outside the safe zone and killed, either by forced duel or simple murder. Dazia wasn't nearly that stupid, so she would remain wary and try to stay hidden for the time being.

Step...step...step...

Dazia's footsteps, muffled by the material padding the exterior of her gear's footwear, were fairly slow, as to further reduce noise, all of this to keep moving towards a new position, as a female player came into view and greeted a male player clad in silver armor. If they could remain distracted, Dazia might be able to reach the other area undetected.

Clak!

A ragged pebble. Just her luck. "Damn it," She thought, as she immediately dashed, her footsteps remaining light, towards the closest source of cover. As long as they didn't see or hear Dazia, all three players should be fine. The cowl of her cloth armor remained over her head, and her weapon was still held by her left hand, ready to strike at any threat that came her way. Assaults only counted if they dealt damage, and damage couldn't be dealt in a safe zone. If anyone tried anything, she might be able to discourage them with a few swings, but that's only for if either of the two were a threat of any kind to Dazia.

 

ID# 209949 LD: 10+5=15

Stealth Value: 15

Edited November 6, 2022 by Dazia

[Hirru 0]

The sight of the individual that was not seeming to hide their position would come into view, and it was not someone that he was expecting.  He didn't really remember the name of the one before him, but he did remember her from the party at Koga's.  She was with Astreya, while he was trying to deal with a flooding kitchen.  He couldn't really remember if she was anywhere else, though he had a sneaking suspicion she was at the tournament too.  So odd for another player to be here, though that could say the same for him.

"Aye, usually so.  Was expecting something else to be here, but not a player."

Hirru then gave it some thought.  Events usually bring people anyway, so he should have expected someone or another.  He figured that logic was sound and continued on.

"Was hoping there would be another event for the season, but I guessed wrong, or I was too late for it."

He undid the helm on his armor, letting it disappear to show his face.  His jade hair sprung outwards from the confinement, still held up by the red bandana that hide much more.  When he did so, the hidden ping would fall silent once more.  They used their skill to hide again?  A quick blink would send another detect burst out, locating their hidden guest.  Odd, what did they want from them?  The ping only gives a vague outline, but Hirru can tell a weapon when he sees one.  He would stay weary, but not call attention.  He isn't the same damage dealer, as he used to be.  Besides, there was no need to fight in a town.  They just had to worry about being lead towards the outer rim. 

The individual gave there name and he nodded in an understanding manner.

"Ah, now I get a name to the face.  We met slightly some time ago, back at that party.  Jade Hunter, Hirru, at your service." 

Search Roll (Stealth search)
[ID: 209957] [LD: 15+7=22] Hirru sees our hidden guest

Edited November 8, 2022 by Hirru

[Nari-Lanreth 0]

Back at the party...It felt so long ago, the party at Koga's. The tournament, everything that came after. Hard to believe it had been months at most. Although, as Nari thought about it...months in here, piled upon years. She felt the concern well up inside her again, that sudden loss at every single second she was stuck in here. The moments she was missing from the world beyond - moments that she'd never get back, which may have been better than...

The shaky sigh that escaped her likely gave away her mental state more than her appearance did. Still, the other man had been more than welcoming, something that Nari felt was sincere at the very least. Stepping forward, she pulled herself up onto a nearby ledge, smiling at the man as she answered him. It's been a while since I've seen any events, makes you wonder if Cardinal has...well, maybe not forgotten about us, but maybe there's so few left that it's not worth the system's time.

She shrugged. She had doubts that there were too few players left to be worthwhile - she figured if even one were left, the system would continue onwards without hesitation. The AI wouldn't consider stopping everything just because it didn't have an audience. At least, she didn't see that being a real possibility. That being said, I wouldn't mind a real festival or something - liven the place up. Not sure about you, but...we've been alone for a while now, far too long, if you ask me.

She waved her hand at the small winter fox that had sprung up beside her, nestling itself against her side as it kept wary eyes upon the other player. Nari had warmed to the man far sooner than Yuki would, not that she was against the idea. It was Yuki's job to protect her after all, which meant that sometimes she would be more defensive, more reserved.

Which...have you come across anyone recently? I...don't get out much. If I'm not here with Yuki and my thoughts, I'm at home...trying not to listen to the memories in my head. She left out the effect of those memories - she doubted the other would care to hear her sorrows; they all had them. It wasn't special to have sadness in this place, this world that was sadness. 

[Dazia 0]

Due to the armor clad player's unique method of searching, Dazia had not realized she'd been discovered. She remained behind her cover, her weapon still drawn, waiting for something to happen. 

Until then, she would listen in to the conversation as to gauge the situation. The two players spoke of whether or not the playerbase had been forgotten by the Cardinal, or if there were few among the more active playerbase that the system could care about. It was most likely the latter, as some NPCs had begun to have certain...requests to ask when they saw Dazia. With certain individuals making life harder for Dazia, she'd been having to hide more often, take down any posters warning others about Dazia, and keep an eye out for that trio that keeps trying to find and eliminate her.

And to think it was all a vengeful little Princess's fault.

Ever since Dazia defended herself and made her first kill, she'd felt like she'd been on the run ever since. She'd "stepped out of line", so of course everyone who followed such foolishness would either be wary of her, or after her. Dazia would proceed to slowly shift her position and...refresh her stealth? Odd, she hadn't noticed any signs that she'd been spotted...So she began to slowly move to a new position that provided some cover.

She would then continue to listen in from behind the safety of her cover, her weapon still drawn, hoping she wouldn't be seen until she knew for certain it was safe to come out. If anyone tried anything too sudden, someone might regret it.

 

ID# 209958 LD: 11+5=16

Stealth Value: 16

Edited November 8, 2022 by Dazia

[Hirru 0]

It seemed that this one was having some troubles.  Quite a bit more than the hunter was really willing to work out, but the talks would have to be a timer.  Whomever was skulking about in the dark isn't really attacking either of them.  Was it a matter of numbers?  It is true that two versus one is not usually a good tactic to face against, although the hunter has faced greater odds while fighting for his loot and lore.  It was best not to dwell on it too much though.  If it was a matter of numbers, then the moment that the had a chance, the hidden one could attack them once one of them walks out of the town.  Was this individual here to be alone too, or were they here for a different agenda?  There were too many factors to tell.  He would have to let things either run their course, or wait until one of these two leave.  Hirru was not going to leave Nari here, if the one hidden was targeting them for some reason.

Continuing the conversation while keeping search bursting at ten second intervals, the hunter would answer the seemingly lonesome player.

"Most of the players that I know are working on the repair efforts happening on the 26th floor.  The floor boss fight and the event that happened after seemed to cause quite a bit of damage to the area.  Though, if I've been in contact with them, I have not."

It seemed that after the event, there was much to do after the rebellion took care of the old king, well more so the others took care of him.  Hirru couldn't say much about the matter, as everything got hazy during the final assault on the king.  How did they survive that? 

"Some have gone to the new 27th floor, to scout out the floor for the labyrinth.  Though.."

There was some pause in that speech as he really thought about it.  He remembered Ariel recruiting for that, but had been trying to figure out his new role on the front to really be effective.  All it seemed was that he was a getting nowhere, as he could only progress, if someone else was there to carry him.  Hirru hated to think that.  He always fought side by side with his quest and dungeon partners, and now.. he was at the side lines.  In that though, Ariel should have brought a proper team with her.  What were they doing?

"..I haven't heard anything from them for a while."

Thinking about it all, it made the hunter want to make another party.  Maybe he could ask Baldur... Oh right, all of Jacobs Ladder went to the twenty seventh floor for the recon work.  That brought on a completely different thought.  Why was he here on the tenth floor?  Sure, he was here to see if the event was open, but why was he here?  Shouldn't he be up top with the others?  Why was his memory of it all that hazy?  It's like that time during..

Hirru winced his eyes loosing focus over his search pulses for a second later.  An unwelcoming memory seemed to play out for him, but it was incredibly broken.  With the sudden laps of concentration, Hirru quickly blinked search back on, but that would probably give their guest enough time to move about.  Sure enough, it seemed to moved quite a bit from the pings and blips he was picking up.  He would keep from looking in their direction too much.  Just to keep from announcing their presence, in case they didn't want to be known; or if they were prone to attack if attention was brought to them.

"Yeah, it would probably be good to start a gathering.  Just need someone that knows how to make good food, and someone that can gather some people.  I'm... I'm neither of those.  Though, I would probably do it on a less..."

He made a small gesture around the area.

"..dreary."

Search Roll (Stealth search)
[ID: 209966] [LD: 18+7=25] Hirru sees our hidden guest

Edited November 12, 2022 by Hirru

[Nari-Lanreth 0]

The wince in the man's face answered Nari's question more than anything else the man had said. She found herself sympathising with the man, knowing the feeling of the sudden realisation of the quiet that had overcome Aincrad as of late. It seemed to be everywhere that she went. Sure, the NPCs were still around, still going about their usual business. The players, however, those had been dwindling. Nari knew that many had taken to the safety of simply staying living; which meant remaining within their comfort zones, not making their way beyond safe zones and towns...staying alive, in the end. There were a few who still strolled out beyond the boundaries of whatever places they had made a life in now, but those were few and far between.

Most of the individuals I know are...well, not gone, exactly. But quiet. Either...She'd almost said that they were hiding, before realising how that may come across. Instead, she put on a sad smile, continuing her training of thought more carefully. Well, either staying home, or only going out for small necessities. Staying alive, in the end. Not too many come out to places like this anymore...

She glanced around them, admiring the aura of the silence that surrounded them. It was comforting in a way, even if it did seem to be a ghost town. Perhaps that's why I like it so much...because there's no one I know to haunt me here. She ignored the voice in her head, turning the conversation instead onto a topic that the other had brought up. 

Yeah, an event to pull everyone together would be nice! Although, I don't know if we can ever top Koga's Flooded Kitchen...or...the tournament. Both of those were something else. She smiled at the memories of each, some good, some bad. All of them in the past now. Maybe we just need something new, something to energise people again. And take away from the dread that seems to be hovering over the world lately.

At her side, the small fox gave a yip of agreement - most likely at the thought of food. Nari reached down to run her hand through the fur of the small creature, considering a few ideas as she did so. That being said, I guess we'd need to actually have someone attend such an event, and everyone I know has...well, as I said, gone quiet.

[Dazia 0]

Everything is a risk.

That is what Dazia probably would have said if she were in the conversation. The purple haired player, as of the current moment, was of no threat unless she was among those who believed Princess and saw Dazia as an enemy. The green haired, armor clad player, it was harder to determine. He hadn't tried anything yet, but all the one player needed to do was get too comfortable while the other assured themselves that there would be either no resistance, or no witnesses. But if he spotted Dazia earlier, and hadn't done anything yet... then either he believed Dazia was a witness and couldn't do anything until either she left or revealed herself, or he was of no threat...again, that is, as long as he doesn't recognize Dazia in a way that would make him a threat.

So of course, Dazia would prefer to not take any chances.

As silent as the night itself, Dazia moved to a new position. While still behind cover, it just so happened to be at a position that would give Dazia an advantage if she was to act first if the situation between the two players was to somehow get messy. Dazia might have been doubting that now, but even if they're no threats to each other, they might still be to Dazia. Only one way to know for certain. With her left hand still gripping her weapon, all it would take is one wrong move and someone might be surprised. Otherwise, Dazia might actually be able to stop hiding. Maybe if there were any of those damn posters about, she might as well take them down if or when she's safe...

 

ID# 209967 LD: 20+5=25

Stealth Rating: 25

Edited November 12, 2022 by Dazia

[Hirru 0]

"Hey now!  I didn't intentionally flood the place.  It.."

He remembered that to have himself be recognized by the player known as Jevi, the hunter would have to do something drastic, but he didn't really mean to leave the water on.  He was just in a hurry, as she seemed to be leaving and he didn't want to catch her leaving without a proper means.  Rubbing the back of his head with his free hand, Hirru had no weapon to be a threat with the entire time.  What was keeping their hidden stalker?  This was not Hidden's M.O., so who was it?  

"..It just kinda happened.."

There was also the tournament that was just as good as any other gathering.  Though, he could have sworn there was a slight issue part way through.  Who even won that tournament, anyway?  He couldn't quite remember that either.  All he remembered was the fishing, talking on a near-personal level with Freyd, and the banquet.  What happened during the last few days?  How long has it been really?

"But, no.. we can definitely work something out.  Just need to get the right people in, and they'll usually flock the rest in.  Birds of a feather, if that's how the saying goes."

He figured that if he could work around the big name guilds.  Maybe, just maybe.

He looked around a bit in a quizzical manner.  Where did that ping go?  Did they finally leave..

..or did they finally figure out how to bypass his search pulses.  His quizzical gaze turned into a serious one.  The lanterns that were fading from before were fading into embers now.  Light was becoming a commodity now, and it wasn't in the hunter's favor.

Search Roll (Stealth search)
[ID: 209968] [LD: 6+7=13] Hirru lost sight of the hidden one

Edited November 15, 2022 by Hirru

[Nari-Lanreth 0]

Nari found herself almost laughing at the man's accidental admission. Truthfully, she'd never known who had flooded the kitchen - it had all happened so fast, out of nowhere. She'd never considered the possibility that she would ever find out who had done it, let alone have them admit to it. That laugh slowly died away, however, as the man seemed to become more on edge. His eyes cast around, as if looking for something, and Nari found herself pulling her spear ever so slightly closer to herself. 

Something got you on edge? It was less of a question, and more of a confirmation. Waiting to see how he would react. She doubted that he was waiting for someone - the man had seemed far too calm originally for that. Which means that he's spotted something...could be a high enough search skill to notice something out of the ordinary. Better be on guard... She gazed around, knowing she wouldn't spot anything, but making the visible action regardless. 

One would almost think we're alone here, wouldn't they? Which means you being on edge, well...is there someone out there I should be concerned about? Because if anyone tries to harm my new friend and I...I won't be happy. Empty threats, mostly, but her tone did carry a hard edge to it. She didn't want to fight, but she was ready to if the need arose. Carefully, keeping her focus on the area around them, she pulled up her menu and donned her heavy armour and shield, remaining seated but tensing in case anything suddenly jumped out at them.

Funny how one can't simply have a nice relaxing conversation, without some sort of worry around here. Right? She spoke softly, loud enough that the man and anyone nearby would hear, but not raising her voice. Last thing she wanted to do was spook whatever the man was seeing. Better anything dangerous leave us alone...

[Dazia 0]

"Funny, I had the same thought myself..." Dazia thought.

She had to stay hidden, however. If either of these two knew, she'd be in for it. For the time being, she kept to the shadows, unwilling to leave until either she was forced out, or she could confirm whether or not it was safe.

Unfortunately, While her position was good, Aincrad itself decided to not leave her alone. A passing, silent NPC specter or two would glance to Dazia at her hidden position.

Wonderful, now anyone with an attentive eye would know she was here. She couldn't risk changing positions now, she could only stay put and hope that any potential adversaries don't find her. She kept her weapon within her left hand's grip, ready to strike if something went wrong, such as being recognized with hostility. Both players were now clad in armor, probably high in mitigation, not that it mattered as long as Dazia was in a safe zone, no one could deal damage within its borders. All she really had to do was avoid getting dragged outside of it.

 

ID# 209973 LD: 4+5=9

Stealth Value: 9

Edited November 15, 2022 by Dazia

[Hirru 0]

The glow of shades and ghouls that inhabited the realm were starting to come out more and more, as a lantern became dark leaving a single smoldering remnant of light, from the last remaining one.  It cast its glimmers upon Hirru's back, shining upon the silver plating that was his armor, leaving a feint outline from behind his shield.  It was the only light that he could properly use, as the glow of the shades were not something to easily go by.  They were known to cause imagery that may not be real.  Making the dead seem to be living residents of the world.  Some times, they would look upon the players on passing, but the look was cold longing.  Emotionless stares before the individual walked away, but what if the individual didn't leave?  What if, the shades just stood there.. staring.. longing..

Hirru was starting to take notice.  They have been standing here for a while, and as the shades started reappearing, they started doing their little stares.  One after another, until a large group was starting to form.  The 'programming' of these beings seemed to make them want to stop and stare.  It's almost trying to say 'you're not welcome here.  You do not belong.  Leave before it is too late.'  It made sense to do so in this floor, as it is known as the undead and spirit floor.

"We should probably head out then.  I'll talk with my people, if you want to talk to yours."

Hirru would open his menu with his non-shield hand, and search up the name Nari Lanreth.  The search brought up a Nari-Lanreth, to which the hunter figured that the name would be different than the search.  A friend request was sent out to them.

"I'll message you about any new information."

He would say as the crowd kept growing and growing.  All looking upon them.. except a few.  There were some that had seemingly found their gaze upon something a bit closer than when he last checked.  A quick ping would be sent out to confirm.  Sure enough, there was our hidden eavesdropper.  What were they waiting for?  If there was a time to strike, it would be now.

"At this point, there are too many eyes, and their gaze is too much."

Search Roll (Stealth search)
[ID: 210118] [LD: 10+7=17] Hirru sees through the stealthy one.

Edited December 10, 2022 by Hirru

[Nari-Lanreth 0]

Nari nodded in response to the man's suggestion. Reaching out to her own people...she wasn't even sure who that would be, at this point. So many had disappeared - would they even respond to her? Well, there's only one way to find out... Shrugging off the concern, she simply agreed to the concept. "Alright, I'll reach out and see who I can get a hold of...hopefully someone answers.

Her eyes were drawn away from the man as he seemed to peer into the darkness. She could see, hovering in the distance, the ghostly figures that always seemed drawn to anyone who remained around for too long. Their appearance caused her to shiver, those eyes peering into her like they were trying to read her very soul. Unnerving, for sure. Ever so discomforting...perhaps it is time to move on, after all.

Nari hopped down from the ledge, bouncing on her toes a couple of times before nodding towards the man. In the edge of her vision, the friend request popped up. Hirru...She quickly clicked the acceptance button, before giving a wave and a half smile, her posture relaxed. "Until next time, then? I look forward to hopefully meeting again in an attempt to escape this place. Or, well, maybe something happier of note - should Aincrad and life ever allow that."

[Dazia 0]

No time like the present to act. If even the NPC specters could see her, anyone would know something was around. Dazia slowly left her cover, coming into the view of the two players. Her weapon was still held in her left hand with a firm grip, and her cowl remained over her head. "I guess I should be in agreement with you." She remarked. "These specters don't seem to care who you are, as long as your cursor remains unchanged."

Dazia then shifted her stance to a defensive one that left her ready to counterattack if anything happened. "No sudden moves, or we're going to have a real problem." She warned. She couldn't be too careful. If either of them had spoken to Krysta, they were potential threats. She already had more than enough dealing with enemies, even in the "safety" of safe zones. She wished she could stop hiding for safety and start using her stealth skill for what she originally intended to use it for. She wasn't a coward, but caution was a necessity in situations where even a handful of players considered a single person as a wanted fugitive.

@Hirru@Nari-Lanreth

[Hirru 0]

It looks like that's what brought out their hidden adversary.  Dark hair, couldn't tell the exact color with the current lighting, but that didn't matter much.  Their clothing, though simplistic, seemed to help them blend in, although the hunter didn't think that was impart by any specific enhancement or design.  The stealth skill was quite well known to hide even the largest of great sword wielders, if done correctly.  This one didn't need that, it seemed.

"Well, if it isn't our third party."

Hirru was not going to let this opportunity get away from him, although he really didn't have much of a plan to do anything with them.  Though, he was interested in her being a stealth user, especially the fact that she's holding them up right now.  She certainly didn't seem like someone Hidden would know, or be Hidden themselves.  Hirru had begun to recognize her voice, this was not it.

"I don't see much issue here, unless the residents of the floor want some.  Though, with you eavesdropping on us; I'm sure that you have your reason for this."

He would say while keeping his shield between him and their assailant.

Edited December 15, 2022 by Hirru