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[F06 | SP] The Silent Cloak | <<The Gemini>>


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Nymoria was feeling confident following her success in the lower levels. She’d taken on a number of various quests, her capabilities growing with each individual situation. It had given her a courage and determination that she had previously thought impossible for someone like her; and although she doubted she would be able to hold on to it forever, she knew that she was at least able to push herself forwards this time due to the momentum she’d been gaining.

It was the entire reason she had dragged Musei from the comfort of the inn they’d found within the city of Aruyt, taking him on a tour of the higher floors in the hopes of finding something that would benefit them more on their continuous journey. The weasel had, reasonably, been annoyed at the early morning wakeup call. He’d only resented due to her promise of new, exciting foods to be found on the higher floors – a trivial thing in the end, but something that she’d found always appeased his annoyance, if only slightly.

They’d passed through the fifth floor quickly, finding it less appealing with its warmer temperatures and dry climate. The consistent flowing of sands on the air had driven Nymoria away in the end, a biting feeling on her skin every time a breeze had begun to rise. The few passes through the large bazaar that she had taken had left her wanting, as well, with little in the way of interesting merchandise to be found on display.

There’s not always going to be amazing things for us. I mean, there’s thousands of players and people in this world, there’s bound to be some who have different tastes. The weasel almost seemed to sigh in response to her words, his own dissatisfaction apparent in the way he tucked himself deeper into her pocket. He’d been less than pleased since the moment they’d stepped onto the fifth floor, and Nymoria took it as a sign to leave as soon as possible. Well, on to the next one. She thought, even as she waved her hand in the gesture of the sixth floor’s name, activating the teleportation pad and disappearing from sight.

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Statblock

Nymoria (2).png
Spoiler

Notes


Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [360/360] | EN [54/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] 
Tier 2 | Tier 2


Equipment

  • Nymoria's Sabre
    [Rapier | Tier 1]
    Enhancement: Damage [2 Slots]
  • Beginner's Chestplate
    [Light Armour | Tier 1]
    Enhancement: Mitigation [1 Slots] 
  • Hearing Aid
    [Trinket | Tier 1]
    Enhancement: Accuracy [3 Slots]

Battle-Ready Inventory

  • Uncommon Health Potion {5} [Potion | Tier 1 | Heals 5% Maximum HP]
  • Spyglass {2} | Reduce Search Posts x5 [Dungeon, Familiar, Field Boss] for one thread
  • bento {2} [Meal | Tierless | Oveerhealth III]
  • Teleport Crystal {1}
  • Honey Cookie {20} [Snack | Tier 1 | Vitality II]

Skills

Spoiler

Utility Skills
N/A

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.]

Rapiers [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: +1 ACC.]
[Rank 5 Weapon Addon] Rapier Ferocity [
Active: Passive. Effect: +2 DMG when using the weapon of your choice. Players cannot use Focus and Ferocity at the same time for the same Weapon Type.]

Armour Skills
Light Armour [Rank: 3. Active: Passive. Effect: Gain Mitigation based on your rank in Light Armor. You can only benefit from one armor skill at a time (the respective armor type must be equipped). Your mitigation is capped at 2 enhancement slots.]
[Rank 3 Armour Mod] Meticulous [
Active: Passive. Effect: Gain +1 base Damage.]

Active Extra Skills
Leadership [Rank: 1. Active: Passive. Effect: Gain access to Leadership Arts every rank. In order to use a Leadership Art, it must take up a mod slot. Each Leadership Art takes up a different mod slot. Leadership Arts from different sources do not stack.]
[Rank 1 Leadership Art] Elusive [Active: Post Action. Energy: 4 EN Cooldown: 2 turns. Effect: Increase the Evasion of all players in your party by 1 for a single turn.]

Inactive Extra Skills 
N/A

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

Familiar Skills
Hunting Familiar [
Active: Free Action. Cooldown: 5 turns. : Effect: Your familiar has a nose for treasure. Roll LD/CD (without bonuses) as if you had slain a loot-minimum mob.]

Estate Buffs
N/A

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Sword Arts

Spoiler

[x12] ST-I (12 10 EN) | A single-target sword art.
[x15]
ST-II (15 13EN) | 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, this CD check applies to 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 all intended targets the previous turn.
[x12] TECH-A (13 11 EN) | STUN | A single-target sword art that stuns an enemy.
[x12]
TECH-B (13 11 EN) | DELAY | A single-target sword art that, on a successful strike, applies [Delay] on the enemy. [Delay] is a debuff that reduces the enemy’s ACC by 1 for one turn.
[x8]
TECH-F (
8 6 + [2 * targets] EN) | AOE STUN | A sword art that strikes multiple targets at once. All struck targets are stunned for one turn.

data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAPABAP///wAAACH5BAEKAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAICRAEAOw==

Estate Buffs

Spoiler

N/A

data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAPABAP///wAAACH5BAEKAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAICRAEAOw==

 

 

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It’s very much like Aruyt, in a way. The words were the first things she thought upon seeing the settlement they had arrived in. Krycim, capital and main civilised area of the sixth floor, appearing in many ways to be a jungle styled version of Aruyt, at least in Nymoria’s eyes. She leaned against a nearby railing, staring out over the forests that stretched beyond the village and into the distance, wondering if there wasn’t a place here for her, once she’d saved up enough money to find something nice.

Musei, who’d departed her shoulder for a few moments to explore the nearby area, appeared on the railing beside her, his movement suggesting that he was chirping away at the air with his oddly off sounding vocals. Nymoria kept her gaze away from him, wanting to take in the sights without the odd sounds piercing her limited hearing.

It’s beautiful here, in it’s own way, isn’t it Musei? Her fingers moved even with her hands crossed against the railings, unimpeded by the weight of her body leaning against it. She glanced down at the weasel briefly, considering it’s form and the general attitude it was giving off, before acknowledging that it was agreeing with her statement. She wanted nothing more than to stand there for the remainder of the day, gazing out into the wilds, but she knew there was more to do; besides, she’d promised Musei something to eat. Shall we?

With a flick of his tail, Musei flitted back onto her shoulder, nestling into place against the harness that held the chestplate on, before Nymoria stood back up and walked way from the railing. Unbeknownst to her, a cloaked figure in the distance mimicked the movement, beginning to walk in the same direction as they headed towards the centre of the village.

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ID224309 | Hunting Familiar

Spoiler

Looting
ID224309 | LD: 9 | CD: 4 | Hunting Familiar | Results: 1,080 (648+432) col, 2 materials, Uncommon Consumable {1}

Totals
1,080 col
2 materials
Uncommon Consumable {1} | ID224309

 

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The markets within Krycim proved to be far more interesting to Nymoria than those found on the floor below, and while she found little for herself, the assortment of meats and fruits caught Musei’s attention almost immediately. She indulged the weasel to a mediocre degree, purchasing a variety of small treats for him to snack on as they continued their way through the town, eventually leading onto another bridge where Nymoria stopped for a break.

Her eyes shifted around, trying to spot the figure she had seen throughout the day, always several metres away, but never quite out of sight. She’d become uneasy a few hours earlier, when she realised that it was the same figure following her for quite some time, at first having passed it off as nothing more than a coincidence. But as time had continued onwards, it had become clear that the figure was specifically following her, and Nymoria had found her left hand drifting to the pommel of her sabre more and more often, always keeping the weapon near just in case something should occur.

She had figured that stopping on the bridge, well away from prying eyes and other people – player and NPC alike – would give the cloaked figure the chance to approach. She found herself neither wrong, nor having to wait long, for an answer to her expectations. The cloaked figure approached, a slender hand appearing in a wave as it began to communicate through sign language – something that shocked Nymoria more than their appearance.

Hello, Nymoria. I’ve been keeping an eye on you for some time now. Nymoria’s eyes narrowed slightly as she took in the meaning of the message, as well as the form of the individual before her. There was no doubts in her mind that it was an NPC, and yet the movements, actions and behaviours all spoke of a player; not to mention the clear familiar way it spoke with her. Why don’t we go somewhere more private, away from here? I’d like to test my skill against yours, to see if you’ve truly grown as a player.

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Every ounce of her body had screamed at her to deny the request, to turn away and head for the teleporter and the safety of her inn room. She truly wanted nothing to do with the cloaked figure, who was an obvious danger even to her untrained eyes. Yet, Nymoria found herself slowly agreeing to the proposition, her body seemingly moving of its own volition as she not only agreed, but began to follow the cloaked individual out of the village and into the wilderness.

Why am I doing this? It’s not like I’m possessed by the system or anything…but then, why am I going with them? I know this is dangerous. Is…is this a quest? The thought shocked her as she considered the probability. She’d heard of a few quests where players had been forced to face themselves, but if this had been one of them, Nymoria found herself not only entirely unfamiliar with it, but wholly unprepared.

The shock of her acceptance slowly wearing off, she realised why she had followed the individual to begin with. The suggestion that they’d not only been watching her, but had seen her progress – and wanted to test it – had intrigued her. As much as she’d been worried about the danger of their existence and presence, she’d been excited at someone finally acknowledging her. Someone taking an interest in her, and her actions. Am I really so shallow that I throw my life away at the hopes that someone realises I’m alive, and making progress in a game? She hated that she knew the answer, more than she hated the answer itself.

With nothing else to do, however, she’d followed the cloaked figure in silence – a feat which was easy for an individual who always lived in silence. The figure seemed unconcerned about the possibility of Nymoria having turned away and back at some point, never once turning around as it led Nymoria through the woods towards their destination. And…just where is that destination, anyways?

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Her question remained unanswered for another twenty minutes, before a small pool began to appear between the trees. Nymoria eyed the area, knowing within herself for reasons that she couldn’t explain, that the pool was their eventual destination. The image before her, still distant, seemed to shimmer slightly the closer they moved towards it, as if trying to draw her eyes. Not that it needed to, as her focus remained balanced between the figure, the surrounding area, and the slowly approaching pool itself.

Musei, who had disappeared into her pocket for the majority of the walk, had reappeared long enough to gaze upon the pool for a few moments before snuggling back into the safety beneath her chestplate, content to leave her to deal with the problems at hand for the time being. Nymoria sighed, but refused to acknowledge the fact that she was alone with the hooded figure for the time being, knowing that there was little else she could do.

More alone now than she had been mere moments before, Nymoria wondered who the figure she was following was, in truth. She’d seen no essence of the being beneath the cloak, the slender hand the only confirmation that beneath the cloak was a body of someone. She’d noticed that the hand had looked familiar, somehow, although the more she thought on it, the more she realised she wasn’t able to place its owner’s image in her mind.

They must have a reason for bringing me out here. A reason beyond my understanding…maybe this really is a quest? Or maybe I’m just being led on by some weird person who wants to duel…? But why not do that in the village, then? We could’ve used the dueling system… A flash of images passed through her mind, a reminder of the player killing guilds that had plagued Aincrad for years, before being brought down. Nymoria had heard little of their activity lately, but as she stared at the cloak she wondered if she hadn’t been roped in by one of them.

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She’d managed to calm her panic, if only slightly, following the thoughts of the player killers. Few had been found in recent years, and none had been seen since she’d truly begun her push towards the upper floors. She’d managed to convince herself, if only slightly, that the likelihood of one finding her now, was limited. Not to mention it knew me. That would be impossible for another player who I haven’t grouped with before…and none of them would remember me, or want to harm me…

When they had reached the edge of the pool, the cloaked individual had turned back to Nymoria, the hand reappearing as it began to sign to her once more. You and I should fight here. To test your skills, and see if you are as improved as I think you are. If I win, I’ll know that you still have a long ways to go. But if you win…perhaps I can teach you a skill that will only benefit you further.

The words were more than enough incentive for Nymoria, her hand moving to the sabre at her hip and drawing it in a smooth motion. She raised it slightly, mimicking a form of salute that she had once seen in a movie long ago, before sliding into a ready stance, eyeing the figure before her as she tried to determine exactly what its plan was.

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Whatever it had been planning Nymoria didn’t have the time to figure out as the figure suddenly lunged forward, a sabre appearing from beneath the cloak and slashing wildly towards her, forcing her backwards as she swept out of its way.

The sudden movement had caught Nymoria entirely off guard, no indication that the cloaked figure had been preparing to attack her. She’d been forced, almost immediately, onto the defensive as she tried to regain her balance and purpose. Her blade danced around in response to the movements of the cloaked figure’s weapon, trying with all her might to simply keep the weapon at bay.

Her mind raced nearly as quickly as her body, trying to figure out what exactly had just happened. She’d known, when the figure had first appeared, that there was the possibility of some sort of duel. Their entire figure and aura had given off a feeling of an almost violent nature, in a way. Yet Nymoria had still followed the figure into the woods willingly, as if there was nothing to worry about. Is that suicidal behaviour?

She didn’t have more time to spend thinking about it as another flurry of strikes and slashes were thrown at her, forcing Nymoria to deflect and back step out of the way as best as she could. The speed of the figure was intense, and she felt like she was outmatched in the moment, her own blade struggling to keep up even slightly with the movement.

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Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [250/360] | EN [54/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10]  | -110 HP
The Gemini | HP [540/540] | DMG [144] | MIT [36] | ACC [4] | EVA [0]
Concentration | This boss gains +1 ACC for its first attack.
Disguise | This boss will adopt the appearance of the player through the entire fight, mocking their appearance.
Surprise Attack! | No matter what, this boss will attack first, before the player. The player may not act on the first turn. As this ruins any chance to put space between the player and the boss throughout the remainder of the fight.  The <<Charge>> skill cannot be used against <<The Gemini>>
Defy Death | During this fight, death can be avoided. Any attack that would leave either the player or the boss at zero will result in leaving either entity with 1 health point left. <<The Gemini>> will refuse to execute the player if they win, though the player may be much less merciful.
Fairness Check | For each consumable/temporary buff the player has when facing <<The Gemini>>, it will gain additional effects in accordance with the bullets listed below. For example, if the player has 3 buffs active, <<The Gemini>> will have Paralyze, Bleed, and bonus DMG. This ability will adjust mid-battle in the event that the player consumes buffs in the midst of combat.
1) Gain Paralyze: Removes player action for one turn on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
2) Gain Bleed: Deals (12 * Player's Tier) unmitigated damage every turn for two rounds on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
3) Gain Damage: Increases DMG by (Player's Level).
4) Gain Mitigation: Increases MIT by (Player's Level x 2).
5) Gain Health: Increases HP by (Player's Level x 5).

ID224303 | BD: 6+5=11 | <<The Gemini vs. Nymoria>> | Hit: [144-34] = 110 damage

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The blade of the figure slashed across her shoulder, tearing a portion of her skin with it as she tried to roll away from the strike. Nymoria hissed slightly in response, the natural sound likely unnatural to those who could actually hear it. She knew there should be no pain, and yet as the blade passed through her shoulder, she felt nothing but a searing sensation; her mind making up for the missing feeling almost instantly.

The down ticking of her health bar was all the reminder that Nymoria needed that the fight against this thing was not going to be easy; that she was going to be pressed to hold her own even as her blade lashed out to connect with it. The figure leapt backwards, easily avoiding her off-handed swing without concern or hesitation.

There’s something about those movements…they look…familiar? The thought came to her as the figure leapt backwards again, moving to avoid Nymoria’s sabre while stabbing outward with it’s own, driving her back and away even as she tried to land her own strikes. She felt her brow furrow slightly in frustration, the scene before her causing her more confusion than the entirety of the moments leading up to it.

She moved once more, focusing on stabbing out towards the Gemini even as it danced around her, the blade of her opponent stabbing back in return in a measure that made Nymoria more and more uncomfortable. She couldn’t quite tell why, but everything about the situation was setting her on edge, reminding her of a feeling of unnaturalness.

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Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [260/360] | EN [43/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +10 HP | -11 EN
The Gemini | HP [394/540] | DMG [144] | MIT [36] | ACC [4] | EVA [0] | Stunned
Concentration | This boss gains +1 ACC for its first attack.
Disguise | This boss will adopt the appearance of the player through the entire fight, mocking their appearance.
Surprise Attack! | No matter what, this boss will attack first, before the player. The player may not act on the first turn. As this ruins any chance to put space between the player and the boss throughout the remainder of the fight.  The <<Charge>> skill cannot be used against <<The Gemini>>
Defy Death | During this fight, death can be avoided. Any attack that would leave either the player or the boss at zero will result in leaving either entity with 1 health point left. <<The Gemini>> will refuse to execute the player if they win, though the player may be much less merciful.
Fairness Check | For each consumable/temporary buff the player has when facing <<The Gemini>>, it will gain additional effects in accordance with the bullets listed below. For example, if the player has 3 buffs active, <<The Gemini>> will have Paralyze, Bleed, and bonus DMG. This ability will adjust mid-battle in the event that the player consumes buffs in the midst of combat.
1) Gain Paralyze: Removes player action for one turn on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
2) Gain Bleed: Deals (12 * Player's Tier) unmitigated damage every turn for two rounds on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
3) Gain Damage: Increases DMG by (Player's Level).
4) Gain Mitigation: Increases MIT by (Player's Level x 2).
5) Gain Health: Increases HP by (Player's Level x 5).

ID224304 | BD: 4+4=8 | <<Tech-A vs. The Gemini>> | Hit: [15x12-34] = 146 damage | Stunned

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Nymoria felt a single moment of elation as her blade connected with the figure’s form, causing it to freeze in place. She had to resist the urge to rush forwards once more and drive her attack home further, knowing better than to simply rush into the fight blind. She’d seen first hand what happened when the stun effect ended, and how sometimes players had been caught by the follow through of attacks they had forgot had even started.

Stepping back carefully, Nymoria readied herself into a guard stance, the blade held comfortably, but strongly, in front of her as she waited to see what the figure would do. It didn’t take long for the cloak to begin moving once more, the form shifting slightly as the stun wore off and it was able to move again. Nymoria’s own steps carried her in an almost mirror image pathway, her eyes focused on the opponent’s form, watching for any sign that it would leap forward towards her.

It’s coming. Now. Just as the thought finished the form of the cloaked individual flashed across the distance, the opponent’s sabre caught only by Nymoria’s readiness, her surprise overtaken by the natural reactions she’d taught herself to have in the instant. Her mind raced even as she parried and returned the blows that were sent her way. How did I know they were going to attack? Did I see it in their form? But there was no movement, no signifying…how?

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Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [160/360] | EN [35/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +2 EN; 10 HP | -10 EN;  -110 HP
The Gemini | HP [224/540] | DMG [144] | MIT [36] | ACC [4] | EVA [0] | Stun Immunity [1/3]
Concentration | This boss gains +1 ACC for its first attack.
Disguise | This boss will adopt the appearance of the player through the entire fight, mocking their appearance.
Surprise Attack! | No matter what, this boss will attack first, before the player. The player may not act on the first turn. As this ruins any chance to put space between the player and the boss throughout the remainder of the fight.  The <<Charge>> skill cannot be used against <<The Gemini>>
Defy Death | During this fight, death can be avoided. Any attack that would leave either the player or the boss at zero will result in leaving either entity with 1 health point left. <<The Gemini>> will refuse to execute the player if they win, though the player may be much less merciful.
Fairness Check | For each consumable/temporary buff the player has when facing <<The Gemini>>, it will gain additional effects in accordance with the bullets listed below. For example, if the player has 3 buffs active, <<The Gemini>> will have Paralyze, Bleed, and bonus DMG. This ability will adjust mid-battle in the event that the player consumes buffs in the midst of combat.
1) Gain Paralyze: Removes player action for one turn on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
2) Gain Bleed: Deals (12 * Player's Tier) unmitigated damage every turn for two rounds on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
3) Gain Damage: Increases DMG by (Player's Level).
4) Gain Mitigation: Increases MIT by (Player's Level x 2).
5) Gain Health: Increases HP by (Player's Level x 5).

ID224305 | BD: 10+4=14 | <<ST-I vs. The Gemini>> | Hit: [(15+2)x12-34] = 170 damage | MOB: 4+4=8 | Hit: [144-34] = 110 damage

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Something in the movements of the Gemini finally registered for Nymoria, and she pulled back from the fight with a sudden look of shock. The Gemini seemed to hesitate, as if uncertain about the disengagement, the weapon quivering in the air as it was held in place from the movement it had been about to take.

It’s the exact same movements that I would make. It’s…mimicking me? All of those strikes, those parries…those are all my style of fighting. This thing really has been watching me. For the first time since she had followed it, Nymoria began to truly wonder who the figure before her was. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion, eyeing the figure as she tried to spy any form beneath the hood, albeit without success. Slowly, the figure began to circle to the side, trying to force Nymoria to move with it. The attempt didn’t last long, however, as it became apparent that Nymoria had no urge to move with it.

Throwing everything away, it seemed to decide that the best course of action was simply to re-engage with Nymoria, the form of the cloaked figure lunging towards her as the sabre moved into action. She wanted nothing more than to turn and flee, but knew that it would be pointless. The only thing she could do now was to try and fight her way out of it, and hope that she had enough to beat it back. Gritting her teeth, she pushed herself into motion, moving to meet the thing as it came towards her, her own sabre flashing through the air in response.

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Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [60/360] | EN [24/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +2 EN; 10 HP | -13 EN;  -110 HP
The Gemini | HP [33/540] | DMG [144] | MIT [36] | ACC [4] | EVA [0] | Stun Immunity [2/3]
Concentration | This boss gains +1 ACC for its first attack.
Disguise | This boss will adopt the appearance of the player through the entire fight, mocking their appearance.
Surprise Attack! | No matter what, this boss will attack first, before the player. The player may not act on the first turn. As this ruins any chance to put space between the player and the boss throughout the remainder of the fight.  The <<Charge>> skill cannot be used against <<The Gemini>>
Defy Death | During this fight, death can be avoided. Any attack that would leave either the player or the boss at zero will result in leaving either entity with 1 health point left. <<The Gemini>> will refuse to execute the player if they win, though the player may be much less merciful.
Fairness Check | For each consumable/temporary buff the player has when facing <<The Gemini>>, it will gain additional effects in accordance with the bullets listed below. For example, if the player has 3 buffs active, <<The Gemini>> will have Paralyze, Bleed, and bonus DMG. This ability will adjust mid-battle in the event that the player consumes buffs in the midst of combat.
1) Gain Paralyze: Removes player action for one turn on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
2) Gain Bleed: Deals (12 * Player's Tier) unmitigated damage every turn for two rounds on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
3) Gain Damage: Increases DMG by (Player's Level).
4) Gain Mitigation: Increases MIT by (Player's Level x 2).
5) Gain Health: Increases HP by (Player's Level x 5).

ID224306 | BD: 8+4=14 | CD: 12 [ST-B unlocked] <<ST-II vs. The Gemini>> | Hit: [15x15-34] = 191 damage | MOB: 5+4=9 | Hit: [144-34] = 110 damage

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Their two forms connected and clashed, the blades flashing in a flurry of blows meant to overwhelm the other, to break the defences that held their own blade just outside of the point of connection. Nymoria could feel the way in which the defences she faced were so similar to her own, the twist of her blade identical in feeling to how she could see the cloaked figure’s own movements against her. Her mind considered every possible movement she knew, trying to think of a way around them all.

The idea came to her as she realised that she wouldn’t be able to overcome her own defences with her own moves. I need to do something different. Something it wouldn’t expect. Just like…how I wouldn’t expect myself to do something. Trip me up, and it’ll falter too. She hoped it would be enough to trick the figure, and put her blade into a wide motion that left her right side open.

The movement seemed to confuse the cloaked figure for a second, the blade of her opponent pausing as it had been pulled back, only for a single second. That second was all Nymoria had needed though, as she switched the movement of her weapon and struck the side with a strong sword art, slamming the edge of the blade into, and across, the right side of the figure’s torso, tearing a portion of its existence as she pulled the blade backwards.

Almost belatedly, she realised that it would open herself to a counter attack, and she found herself pushing backwards as the tip of the cloaked figure’s blade slashed across her face. She could feel the growl in her throat as she disengaged, giving herself some space to right her feet, before lunging back into the fight. She could feel the closeness of its completion, the nearness of her success. I won’t be beaten here. Not here. Not now.

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Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [70/360] | EN [24/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +2 EN; 10 HP | -2 EN;  -0 HP
The Gemini | HP [33/540] | DMG [144] | MIT [36] | ACC [4] | EVA [0] | Stun Immunity [3/3]
Concentration | This boss gains +1 ACC for its first attack.
Disguise | This boss will adopt the appearance of the player through the entire fight, mocking their appearance.
Surprise Attack! | No matter what, this boss will attack first, before the player. The player may not act on the first turn. As this ruins any chance to put space between the player and the boss throughout the remainder of the fight.  The <<Charge>> skill cannot be used against <<The Gemini>>
Defy Death | During this fight, death can be avoided. Any attack that would leave either the player or the boss at zero will result in leaving either entity with 1 health point left. <<The Gemini>> will refuse to execute the player if they win, though the player may be much less merciful.
Fairness Check | For each consumable/temporary buff the player has when facing <<The Gemini>>, it will gain additional effects in accordance with the bullets listed below. For example, if the player has 3 buffs active, <<The Gemini>> will have Paralyze, Bleed, and bonus DMG. This ability will adjust mid-battle in the event that the player consumes buffs in the midst of combat.
1) Gain Paralyze: Removes player action for one turn on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
2) Gain Bleed: Deals (12 * Player's Tier) unmitigated damage every turn for two rounds on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
3) Gain Damage: Increases DMG by (Player's Level).
4) Gain Mitigation: Increases MIT by (Player's Level x 2).
5) Gain Health: Increases HP by (Player's Level x 5).

ID224307 | BD: 1+4=5 | <<ST-B vs. The Gemini>> | Miss. | MOB: 1+4=5 | Miss.

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Their blades had missed each other, the forms colliding and smashing their heads off one another before reeling backwards in utter shock and surprise. Nymoria had expected to land her blow, the movement so unorthodox compared to her regular fighting style that she had been certain of its success. She had, however, over calculated the distance she would need, and had been far too close to complete the movement.

Knowing that every second counted, however, she’d forced herself back into movement. The precious breaths wasted trying to reconcile from her collision had placed her at a disadvantage once more, noticing as the cloaked figure had begun its own dance and movement in response to the change in her fighting style. Nymoria eyed the figure as it moved out of her reach, putting space between them as it seemed to consider something. Nymoria took the moment to check her own health bar, seeing it slowly recovering, although not enough. She knew that another, single hit from the figure would put her fighting to an end.

Now is the time to press. She moved with the thought, letting her blade dance through the air as she tried to overcome the cloaked figure’s defences once more. Whether it recognised the pattern of her attack, or something else, Nymoria would never know, but it leapt into motion itself to meet her, its own sabre moving in response to Nymoria’s as the two attempted to best one another in a fight to the death.

------

Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [80/360] | EN [16/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +2 EN; 10 HP | -10 EN;  -0 HP
The Gemini | HP [1/540] | DMG [144] | MIT [36] | ACC [4] | EVA [0]
Concentration | This boss gains +1 ACC for its first attack.
Disguise | This boss will adopt the appearance of the player through the entire fight, mocking their appearance.
Surprise Attack! | No matter what, this boss will attack first, before the player. The player may not act on the first turn. As this ruins any chance to put space between the player and the boss throughout the remainder of the fight.  The <<Charge>> skill cannot be used against <<The Gemini>>
Defy Death | During this fight, death can be avoided. Any attack that would leave either the player or the boss at zero will result in leaving either entity with 1 health point left. <<The Gemini>> will refuse to execute the player if they win, though the player may be much less merciful.
Fairness Check | For each consumable/temporary buff the player has when facing <<The Gemini>>, it will gain additional effects in accordance with the bullets listed below. For example, if the player has 3 buffs active, <<The Gemini>> will have Paralyze, Bleed, and bonus DMG. This ability will adjust mid-battle in the event that the player consumes buffs in the midst of combat.
1) Gain Paralyze: Removes player action for one turn on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
2) Gain Bleed: Deals (12 * Player's Tier) unmitigated damage every turn for two rounds on natural MD rolls of 9-10.
3) Gain Damage: Increases DMG by (Player's Level).
4) Gain Mitigation: Increases MIT by (Player's Level x 2).
5) Gain Health: Increases HP by (Player's Level x 5).

ID224308 | BD: 10+4=14 | <<ST-I vs. The Gemini>> | Hit: [(15+2)x12-36] = 168 damage | The Gemini is beaten.

ID224310 | Hunting Familiar

Spoiler

Looting
ID224310 | LD: 6 | CD: 10 | Hunting Familiar | Results: 1,728 (648+864+216) col, Rare Trinket {1}

Totals
2,808 col
2 materials
Uncommon Consumable {1} | ID224309
Rare Trinket {1} | ID224310

 

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Enough. The hand that held up the sign seemed to waver slightly, giving Nymoria pause. Something about the resigned form of the cloaked figure had caught her, bringing her downward slash to a halt as soon as the sign had appeared. She was on edge, that couldn’t be argued, but as she looked over the figure and saw the sabre laying on the ground, she couldn’t help but feel like the figure had given up entirely. I surrender. Please, spare me.

Nymoria considered the figure for a few seconds, her mind racing as she fought the desire to strike it down to be safe, and her own internal necessity to let it live. What would you want, if you were in its place? What would you do? The words were enough to sway her, and Nymoria let the sword in her hand relax, hovering at her side in a clearly prepared manner, but lowered from the aggressive stance it had been in during her internal conflict.

You’ll let me live? There was a hesitation in the question, and for the first time Nymoria saw surprise in its voice. Tilting her head, she considered the oddity of the question in comparison to its request mere seconds ago, before she returned a sign of her own for the first time in a while.

Why would I kill you when you beg for mercy? Do you consider me without compassion? The return questions seemed to shock the figure, it’s head reeling back slightly in response. Nymoria, more perplexed now than she had been at any moment since meeting the figure, pressed her questions, a furrowing of her brow the only indication that she had been upset by the motion. Do you think that I run the floors of this world and kill indiscriminately? Do you think me a murderer? Wanting to kill? Broken?

Her words became more and more agitated as she continued, the forming of her fingers into the symbolism required to provide her intent and message breaking down as her brow furrowed more and more. She felt the anger growing inside her, directed at the figure as much as at Nymoria herself for letting it get this far.  

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Silence, if it could be called that, had fallen between the two of them as Nymoria tried to reconcile her control and composure. Something about the suggestion from the other player had upset her to a degree she was unfamiliar with, and she wasn’t entirely sure why. Her eyes had glared at their form, trying to decipher what in their words had been the cause of the feelings that had taken over Nymoria’s mind.

I’ve never gotten upset at someone before. Not like this. Why…what is it…? Her eyes widened suddenly as she turned back to the figure kneeling before her, still in the same position as when they’d surrendered the fight. Slowly, her fingers moving in an intricate pattern as she pointed to the figure, then herself, she asked the question that had just populated within her mind. Are you...me?

She expected laughter, ridicule, or even outright insults. What she received, instead, was a calm and collected answer, one which left her feeling odd. No, I’m not you. I have been watching you, however. I know you, very well. Almost as well as you know yourself.

Nymoria felt herself shift in place, trying to figure out why the comment was so odd, before realising that she had no real answer. The NPC, whomever they were, knew Nymoria well enough to only communicate in sign language. They knew her movements well enough to follow the flow of her sabre, using an identical weapon in an almost identical way. Everything about the NPC seemed wrong. Maybe that’s why I’m so upset? Because everything about it seems…like it shouldn’t be? Like someone has been keeping a close eye on me…a breach of peace?

The answer seemed more logical, now that she considered it. The possibility more inline with the reality of her situation. It was a clear indication that something, or someone, had been watching her. Learning about her. Taking notes and care; a fact that made her skin crawl in ways that she found more repulsive than the idea of having met her twin. Trying to shake off the feeling, she took a few steps away – not taking her eyes off the figure, but putting some more distance between them. Even though she’d stepped to the side, she watched as the hood followed her, twisting as she moved in order to keep her in sight.

------

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Whomever the NPC was, Nymoria wasn’t going to be given a chance to find out. Rising to its feet, it spread its hands wide to show that the sabre had been left behind on the ground and it provided no threat to her. Still, Nymoria naturally shifted, her own sabre in her left quivering slightly as she angled the tip into a ready stance.

Do not worry, I will not attack you again now. It is time I take my leave. You have won this fight, and as such obtained a skill most beneficial to you. I think. As it signed the words, a small box appeared next to Nymoria, confirming the receipt of a new skill. Her eyes barely passed over it before turning back to the figure, watching as it continued speaking. I will practice more, and get stronger. One day, we will meet again. When we do, I will test you once more. To see if you have continued getting stronger. Or if I will best you. Keep practicing. Keep growing. Do not disappoint me.

It waited a few breaths for any response, before turning away when it became clear that Nymoria had nothing more to say to it. She watched as it wandered off into the woods, before disappearing from sight entirely. She felt herself grimace slightly, wondering if she shouldn’t have stopped the thing from leaving, before realising the fruitlessness of it all. She had defeated it already, even if only barely, and it had chosen a tactical retreat rather than being defeated by her entirely – a fact that Nymoria could more than accept.

There’s no reason to go chasing danger. Let it go…and just keep an eye out going forwards. For now…for now I just need to focus on getting stronger, like it said. I mean, yeah taking advice from an opponent isn’t always good, but in this case… She shrugged off the doubt before looking around her, realising she was still standing near the pond. Her eyes passed over its surface, noticing for the first time the way it seemed to glow. It was beautiful in its own way and she wanted nothing more than to lounge at its edge, basking in the light of it all. No, I should do some hunting myself. Like it suggested.

The thought came out of nowhere, and yet Nymoria found herself unable to deny the logic behind it. There was only one way that she was going to get stronger, and that was through hunting and grinding the various creatures that could be found within the world of Aincrad; each floor offering its own challenges.

A whisper of movement caught Nymoria’s attention, the shadows of figures moving towards her around the pond, as if summoned by her sudden desire to better herself. The forms seemed to flicker slightly, a wavering to their essence that reminded Nymoria of smoke. She felt herself slide slightly backwards, her feet moving to balance her better as she considered escaping, before realising that they had arrived exactly at a perfect time. Confirming that her resources had refilled entirely, she smiled slightly to herself, wondering if she was about to do something stupid, or if she would be okay to rush in and face them all. There’s only one way to find out…

------

Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [360/360] | EN [40/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +0 EN; 0 HP | -14 EN;  -0 HP
Shadows of the Once 1 | HP [180/300] | DMG [48] | Stunned
Shadows of the Once 2 |
HP [180/300] | DMG [48] | Stunned
Shadows of the Once 3 |
HP [180/300] | DMG [48] | Stunned
Shadows of the Once 4 |
HP [180/300] | DMG [48] | Stunned 

ID224777 | BD: 2+4=6 | <<Tech-F vs. Shadows of the Once 1>> | Hit: [15x8] = 120 damage | Stunned
ID224778 | BD: 2+4=6 | <<Tech-F vs. Shadows of the Once 2>> | Hit: [15x8] = 120 damage | Stunned
ID224779 | BD: 3+4=7 | <<Tech-F vs. Shadows of the Once 3>> | Hit: [15x8] = 120 damage | Stunned
ID224780 | BD: 2+4=6 | <<Tech-F vs. Shadows of the Once 4>> | Hit: [15x8] = 120 damage | Stunned

Spoiler

Looting
ID224310 | LD: 6 | CD: 10 | Hunting Familiar | Results: 1,728 (648+864+216) col, Rare Trinket {1}

Totals
2,808 col
2 materials
Uncommon Consumable {1} | ID224309
Rare Trinket {1} | ID224310

 

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The creatures had come forward suddenly, moving towards Nymoria as if they reacted to her sudden desire to engage with them. She barely had time to reposition herself as they surged towards her, their forms seemingly a balance between ethereal and corporeal, flowing in a way that reminded her of smoke coming off a stove. Were it not for the fact that she’d been aware of the danger they presented, Nymoria knew that she would’ve been enraptured by their existence, wanting nothing more than to simply sit and watch them dance on the air.

The reverie was broken as they launched themselves at her, however, her desire to watching them broken by the shrill cold that seemed to emanate from them the closer they approached to Nymoria. Shaking off the few remnants of the dreamlike state she’d been in for the seconds after their initial appearance, Nymoria shifted herself into movement, launching her assault against them even as they came together to try and overpower her.

The speed of her sabre saved her, the blade dancing through the forms of each and landing hit after hit against them as she stunned them into motionlessness. Somehow, even with the centre of their forms frozen in place, they seemed to waver like a mirage on the air itself, a fact that chilled Nymoria almost more than the cold essence they gave off to the environment around them. Their entire existence seemed unnatural somehow; as if they didn’t belong here, or weren’t welcome here.

Whatever the reasoning, Nymoria knew that she needed to dispatch of them as quickly as she could, lest their numbers overwhelm her defences. She was quicker than they were – but only just barely, and her strength and skill paled in comparison to her speed; a fact that kept her very aware of the danger that she was in at the moment.

------

Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [345/360] | EN [25/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +2 EN; 0 HP | -17 EN;  -15 HP
Shadows of the Once 1 | HP [15/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [1/3]
Shadows of the Once 2 |
HP [15/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [1/3]
Shadows of the Once 3 |
HP [15/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [1/3]
Shadows of the Once 4 |
HP [15/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [1/3]

ID225001 | BD: 5+4=9 | <<AoE-I vs. Shadows of the Once 1>> | Hit: [15x11] = 165 damage | MOB: 4 | Miss.
ID225002 | BD: 3+4=7 | <<AoE-I vs. Shadows of the Once 2>> | Hit: [15x11] = 165 damage | MOB: 2 | Miss.
ID225003 | BD: 6+4=10 | <<AoE-I vs. Shadows of the Once 3>> | Hit: [15x11] = 165 damage | MOB: 4 | Miss.
ID225004 | BD: 5+4=9 | <<AoE-I vs. Shadows of the Once 4>> | Hit: [15x11] = 165 damage | MOB: 9 | Minor Critical Hit: [(48+1)-34] = 15 damage

Spoiler

Looting
ID224310 | LD: 6 | CD: 10 | Hunting Familiar | Results: 1,728 (648+864+216) col, Rare Trinket {1}

Totals
2,808 col
2 materials
Uncommon Consumable {1} | ID224309
Rare Trinket {1} | ID224310

 

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She weaved in between the various forms, her sabre slashing around the mist that seeped from their bodies as she dove around half-hearted strikes in her direction. They seemed human like, at their core – the forms similar to hers, and others she had seen. Yet a darkness seemed to cover them, creating a shadow like existence that erased any form of humanity that may have once been the things that stood before her. It both intrigued, and repulsed Nymoria, and she felt an urge to run away even though she could see that they were almost destroyed.

That’s assuming they can be destroyed. Who’s to say they won’t simply regenerate the moment they come close to being killed? She scowled at the sound in her head, the voice distracting enough that a tendril of smoke had managed to wrap around her right hand, leaving a small burn mark even as she watched her health bar dip slightly. A quick slash of the sabre freed her, and she retreated slightly from the wavering forms, giving herself some distance from them as she breathed deeply in preparation for a single, final assault. If they don’t die after this, then I’ll consider running. That’s all there is to it. No need to play stupidly dangerous, but I also don’t need to run from every possible fight…they’re really not that strong, I think.

She had no basis for her evaluation, other than the fact that she had managed to tear through them with ease so far. It seemed likely that she would be okay – the damage they had done so far was miniscule, in essence. Even to Nymoria’s lower level, it had barely been more than a scratch. It was one of the reasons she had chosen to stay and fight, rather than run away – the things before her seemed well within her ability to end, even if they were a bit tough. I can do this. I’ve grown a lot, and these things aren’t overly powerful…I was able to defeat whatever that thing that challenged me was, and it was tougher than this. I should be fine to stick it out and end these things.

------

Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [340/360] | EN [12/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +2 EN; 10 HP | -15 EN;  -15 HP
Shadows of the Once 1 | HP [0/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [2/3]
Shadows of the Once 2 |
HP [15/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [2/3]
Shadows of the Once 3 |
HP [0/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [2/3]
Shadows of the Once 4 |
HP [0/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [2/3]

ID225006 | BD: 3+4=7 | <<AoE-I vs. Shadows of the Once 1>> | Hit: [15x11] = 165 damage | Shadows of the Once 1 destroyed.
ID225007 | BD: 1+4=5 | <<AoE-I vs. Shadows of the Once 2>> | Hit: [15x11] = 165 damage | MOB: 9 | Minor Critical Hit: [(48+1)-34] = 15 damage
ID225008 | BD: 7+4=11 | <<AoE-I vs. Shadows of the Once 3>> | Hit: [15x11] = 165 damage | Shadows of the Once 3 destroyed.
ID225009 | BD: 5+4=9 | <<AoE-I vs. Shadows of the Once 4>> | Hit: [15x11] = 165 damage | Shadows of the Once 4 destroyed.
ID225010 | Loot Shadow of the Once 1
ID225011 | Loot Shadow of the Once 3
ID225012 | Loot Shadow of the Once 4

Spoiler

Looting
ID224310 | LD: 6 | CD: 10 | Hunting Familiar | Results: 1,728 (648+864+216) col, Rare Trinket {1}
ID225010 | LD: 7 | CD: 2 | Hunting Familiar | Results: 1,500 (900+600) col, 2 materials, Uncommon Consumable {1}
ID225011 | LD: 6 | CD: 2 | Hunting Familiar | Results: 2,100 (900+1,200) col, Uncommon Consumable {1}

ID225012 | LD: 15 | CD: 4 | Hunting Familiar | Results: 1,500 (900+600) col, 2 materials, Rare Trinket {1}

Totals
7,908 col
6 materials
Uncommon Consumable {3} | ID224309, 225010, 225011
Rare Trinket {2} | ID224310, 225012

 

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Three had fallen beneath her wide strike, the blade lashing inwards and outwards as it tore through smoke and core, causing the creatures to disappear in a smattering of shards. The final thing seemed to jump backwards without leaving the ground, before lashing out with a tendril of its form, catching Nymoria on the side of the ribs.

The damage was, as before, minimal, but she didn’t want to continue to place herself into a dangerous position. Ducking around the form, she put some space between herself and it, her eyes darting as she glanced around the area to confirm no others had begun to appear. For the time being, at least, they were still alone – although Nymoria wasn’t sure how much longer that would last. The final screams of the shadowy figures had echoed around the pond more than she liked, and she had an eerie feeling that there was movement off in the distance, just on the edge of her vision.

Let’s just finish off this one, and then I can get out of here. I’m not going to push my luck today, no matter how well I feel it’s going…it’s not worth making a mistake after surviving… She realised suddenly that she had no idea what she had survived. She wanted to call it a challenge, or a quest, but in all honesty she’d never received any notifications of having begun one – or if she had, she’d missed it entirely. Whatever it was, I lived. That’s all that matters…for now. Now I just need to beat this final thing, and get out of here…then I can consider it all, and come to terms with it.

A twist of her sabre in her hand, and Nymoria was moving once more. She stepped forwards and to the side, trying to bait the creature towards her left to give her a more powerful position for maneuvering. Whether it realised it or not, she couldn’t say, but it responded by instead leaping towards her right, before rushing towards her in an attempt to close the distance. Nymoria launched herself to the side, carefully placing her footing as she spun around to the far side of the creature, her blade sailing in a smooth motion as it tried to connect with the thing and finish off the skirmish.

------

Combat

Nymoria | Lv. 18 | P. 0 | HP [350/360] | EN [14/54] | ACC [4] | DMG [15] | MIT [34] | BH [+10] | +2 EN; 10 HP | -10 EN;  -15 HP
Shadows of the Once 2 | HP [0/300] | DMG [48] | Stun Immunity [3/3]

ID225536 | BD: 8+4=12 | <<ST-I vs. Shadows of the Once 2>> | Hit: [15x12] = 180 damage | Shadows of the Once 2 destroyed.
ID225537 | Loot Shadow of the Once 2
ID225538 | Hunting Familiar

Spoiler

Looting
ID224310 | LD: 6 | CD: 10 | Results: 1,728 (648+864+216) col, Rare Trinket {1}
ID225010 | LD: 7 | CD: 2| Results: 1,500 (900+600) col, 2 materials, Uncommon Consumable {1}
ID225011 | LD: 6 | CD: 2| Results: 2,100 (900+1,200) col, Uncommon Consumable {1}

ID225012 | LD: 15 | CD: 4 | Results: 1,500 (900+600) col, 2 materials, Rare Trinket {1}
ID225537 | LD: 5 | CD: 6 | Results: 1,500 (900+600) col, 2 materials
ID225538 | LD: 18 | CD: 6 | Results: 2,100 (900+1,200) col, Rare Consumable {1}, Rare Armor/Shield {1}

Totals
7,908 col
6 materials
Uncommon Consumable {3} | ID224309, 225010, 225011
Rare Armor/Shield {1} | ID225538
Rare Consumable {1} | ID225538

Rare Trinket {2} | ID224310, 225012

 

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Nymoria didn’t wait around as the final shadow figure disappeared into shards, the pieces drifting down onto the ground even as she made her escape from the area. She’d spotted the movement once more as her acrobatic movements had brought her underneath and around the figure she’d taken down, confirming that more of them were heading towards her even as she had finished the final one of the original group. Knowing that she had already pushed herself to her limits twice over, she’d chosen a hasty retreat rather than a near death experience.

Her feet had carried her back along the path she’d taken to arrive at the pond, her body moving without the input of her mind; an unconscious part of her carrying her steps away from the pond and back towards what she hoped was safety.

Only moments had passed before Nymoria stopped and checked behind her, confirming that the shadowy figures weren’t following her. Her eyes searched the woodlands, but saw no signs of anything dangerous – or the pond, which she had been standing beside. I didn’t run that far. I should still be able to see it… She craned her eyes, peering into the distance even as she realised that there was no sign of it whatsoever; only the empty woodlands stretching out before her, reaching into the distance before becoming imperceptible due to the foliage. Confused, she paused in her rush to get away, trying to piece together what was happening; what had happened.

I may never know. It was her concluding thought after her mind had run in circles for the second time, leaving her with no more answers than when she’d started trying to understand. A weird feeling passed over her, causing her spine to tingle slightly and her form to shake in response. She wanted nothing more than to leave the forest behind, and to never see the pond again. It would be nice to never see that figure again, as well. Something tells me I’m not that lucky, however.

Stepping off again, she swore to herself that she would continue to work on her skills, to become better than she had been. If not for the ability to clear the game, than at least for the ability to face the hooded figure once more, should they ever appear again.

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The village had looked exactly the same as when Nymoria had first left it. The few people wandering about went with smiles, and those that she had spoken with during her first pass through the area seemed unaware of her departure, and eventual return. It was almost eerily welcoming in Nymoria’s eyes, and she found herself feeling a familiar chill once more as she wandered through the streets.

Although she knew that she had been gone for hours, it appeared as though no one else was aware of her departure – in fact, the few players she had spoken with assumed she had been in a café, or tavern somewhere within the village. None could remember spotting her, however, and Nymoria found it even more chilling when they passed it off as something worth laughing over. She realised, in that moment, that her disappearance had little to no effect on anyone; her impact on the world around her so miniscule that she could disappear for hours at a time and no one would notice.

She’d left the floor in a rush after that encounter, deciding it best to move away from the depressing thoughts and aura that seemed to follow her. She wanted nothing more than to forget the entire occurrence, and yet when she’d first opened her menu and begun sorting through the various sub-menus, she’d spotted the acquired skill once more. Her eyes had lingered on it for several moments before she’d pressed on for the details of it. It appeared beneficial, to say the least, and yet somehow Nymoria felt like it was something she wouldn’t be able to touch for some time yet. Not until she had gotten over what had occurred, and the impact that it had on her.

Sighing heavily, she’d stepped onto the teleportation platform and activated the device. For the time being, she’d make her way back to the first floor, to the Town of Beginnings and the inn that she had been staying at, in order to collect herself in preparation for heading out once more. There was little doubt in her mind that she would eventually return to the dangers that Aincrad had to offer, but for the time being she needed to rest and overcome her anxiousness, to remember the reason that she continued to head into the world each day.

------

Thread Summary
Word Count: 6,664
EXP: 6,664 / 10 x 2 x 1 = 1,332 [Thread Progression] + 1,500 [Quest] = 2,832 EXP
Col: 400 [Thread Progression] + 7,908 [Loot] = 8,308 col
6 materials
Uncommon Consumable {3} | ID224309, 225010, 225011
Rare Armor/Shield {1} | ID225538
Rare Consumable {1} | ID225538
Rare Trinket {2} | ID224310, 225012
Unlock <<Concentration>> Extra Skill.

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