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[PP-F21] To Slay the King


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Morningstar liked to read. Fiction, non-fiction, cookbooks, poetry. Whatever the genre, he enjoyed it. While visiting Tomoika's (admittedly small) library, he found himself hours deep in an old history book. The most memorable chapters detailed a war between humans and dragons. It referenced a king, a battle, and a betrayal. He found it most interesting because it read like fiction, but it was sort of real. It had not happened hundreds of years before Morningstar picked up the book, of course, but the characters really did exist. At least, one of them did.

The Lightbringer and the Time King had a brief encounter once before. The former had emerged victorious, although not without injuries. He left the king's fallen courtroom with a chest wound, a missing eye, and a path laid out, stretching all the way to the frontlines.

On a sporadic Friday, shortly after the death of Callisto, he set out once again to challenge the Forgotten Time King. This time, he would bring company.

Noted in both the major and minor settlements of Floor 21, as well as the Town of Beginnings, was information related to the quest, and his intentions for building the party. He waited near the teleporter for interested players to arrive.

---

iatZ7Yd.png | MORNINGSTAR
 | Lv. 73 >> P. 39, Lv. 34
 | Status: [ // ]

 Notes:
 //

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

 

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"Well if it isn't the guild master of the Tracker's Alliance himself," Wulfrin jested as he stepped off the teleport gate on Floor 21. "You feel like taking on ye olde Time King? I was planning to hit it myself today as a small experience boost for my friend here."

Wulfrin gestured to the companion he had brought with him. Astra was one of the few players Wulfrin had been taking through some of the easier quests, but had come to him to personally learn and train under him. They'd been hitting several of the easier quests, but had yet to take on anything with a real bite. Of course Sharkbait was on the list, but this just seemed more...personal.

"I'll be honest though," Wulfrin continued. "I'm not sure I can quite take on FTK on my own yet, my HP pool just isn't large enough yet. Perhaps the raid has been enough to change that, but I don't know for sure. At any rate, this is Astra. Astra this is Morningstar, Frontline DPS and Tech Specialist (at least usually), and guild master of the Tracker's Alliance."

Wulfrin scanned their immediate vicinity, just in case someone else wanted to pop in. They were a team of three and did have a spot for a fourth, assuming Morningstar took the offer. Wulfrin tapped the shard of metal that hang from the simple chain around his neck, producing a familiar spread of meats and cheeses.

"Snacks anyone?"

* * *

Note: CS Shades of the Gemini is active. If any player objects to this, they should note such in their first post and it will be considered inactive.

Wulfrin consumes Gungir Shard 239050 | Sharkcuterie Board | T1 Demonic Feast (6/6) | ACC II | EVA II | ID: 239171 - takes one portion shares the rest with party (5/6 remain) | Fills Accuracy
[desc.] A daring spread featuring a variety of cured and smoked shark meats, paired with exotic cheeses, crackers, and a hint of seaweed garnish. This adventurous platter offers a bold flavor journey, perfect for those with a taste for the wild and mysterious depths.

Accuracy 2 Consumed [Filled] - Wulfrin's Gungir
Evasion 2 Consumed - Wulfrin's Gungir
Protein 2 Consumed - Skewer roll
Mitigation 3 Consumed - bingsu
Toxic Venom 1 Consumed - Kintsugi
Damage 3 Consumed - Liquor of light
Field Rations 1 Consumed 

Loot Die 3 Consumed - Gelato
Prosperity 3 Consumed  - mousse

Wulfrin | HP: 874/874 | EN: 112/112 | DMG: 26 | MIT:98 | ACC:8 | AA  | EVA:2 | PARA-IM | BH:29 | REC: 8 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:7 | PROSP:3

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The cavernous expanse of Floor 21, and the settlement of Tomoika within it, were completely new sights for Astra. His eyes widened at the city of metal and stone that surrounded him, as he stepped off of the teleport gate with Wulfrin. When he had some spare time Astra would frequent the library in the Town of Beginnings, digging through different types of books that caught his eye. Oftentimes the young swordsman would find himself searching for books on the lore of Aincrad and the discovered floors that lay within its walls. From what he knew of Tomoika, it was originally a trading post established by dwarves of old. Though they were long gone by now, the mystique and architecture still bore the weight of its craft. Though he knew he'd be facing certain danger on the quest Wulfrin was taking him on, he couldn't help but feel excited and full of wonder exploring more of Aincrad. 

The two companions weren't there long before Wulfrin had noticed a familiar player that was seemingly looking to take on the same challenge as them. Astra listened to Wulfrin's introduction of the player, Morningstar, and found himself quickly full of respect and admiration. He was a frontline DPS, which is what Astra had strived to become, and a guild leader on top of that. Astra wasn't yet familiar with The Tracker's Alliance, but it was impressive to be meeting someone who was running a whole guild. 

"It's nice to meet you," he said with his usual smile and a soft wave. "Have you both frequented this fight before? I've heard a bit about the Forgotten Time King, seems like he could be a real force." Generally Astra wouldn't get to talking about business and the task at hand so quickly, but he found himself enamored with the concept of the battle ahead of him. He was still a low level, so his damage output and contributions wouldn't be notable. He'd also probably get absolutely wrecked if he were hit with an attack. He was nervous, but fighting with these two skilled swordsmen eased his nerves a bit. No matter what he was ready to give it all he could. 

Astra waited with his two party members, it appeared like there was still room for one more to join. This could be a pretty grueling challenge, so it wouldn't hurt to have a full party for it. While he waited he helped himself to some of the snacks that Wulfrin produced for them. Astra was always down for snackin', and a full stomach would help with the trials ahead. 

***

Astra consumes x1 portion of Sharkcuterie Board | T1 Demonic Feast (6/6) | ACC II | EVA II |

Astra | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 5 | MIT: 2 | ACC: 4 | REC: 1 | EVA: 2 |

 

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"Bringing a newbie to this floor is kinda dangerous, you know?" Violet had looped around the corner, an amused look on her face as she watched the three players walking through the street. "You probably need to be a little more cautious, its dangerous when you're up on the higher floors - a lot more of these guys pack an aoe punch, you know?" She approached the trio, a friendly smile on her face as she watched over them. It wasn't very common to watch a group of players drag someone new through a quest this high up - though it was apparently a common sight for Wulfrin to do so with Terra Firma down on floor 5, taking a group of them through the quest with reckless aplomb

It was definitely a sight to see him Dragging Morningstar into it, though.

"The boss itself isn't actually all that difficult, just don't forget to bring healing crystals with you~" She calmly strode out towards the trio, a Cheshire grin playing around her lips. "Just don't forget to switch aggro, though. This guy can't be stunned after all!"

Mina Chomps a piece of the Sharkcuterie Board | T1 Demonic Feast (6/6) | ACC II | EVA II |

Field Rations (Filled)

and 1x Skewer Roll (Protein II)

Stats

Tricolor Mina | HP: 928/928 | EN: 114/114 | DMG: 23 | MIT:38 | ACC:8 | AA  | PHASE | EVA:2 | REC: 8 | HLY: 16 | BLI: 32/-20  | BRN: 56 | FRB: 40 | LD: 5 (Buffed by Attic- Bedroom)

Full Statlist

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Morningstar didn't have to wait long for the cavalry to arrive. He had hoped for a team with less experience, but figured it was an opportunity for Astra to experience what teamwork was like on the frontlines. Mina and Wulfrin were a reliable pair to have around. It was going to be an easy FTK run, as far as he was concerned.

"He's too kind. I'm just a guy who likes exploring," he smiled. "Good to meet you, Astra."

Star indulged in Wulfrin's food offerings. He was never one to deny a good meal, especially when he was pretty sure Ciela had made it. "Admittedly, I've only fought this boss once. But I was about 40 levels lower at the time, and today I have three more teammates. We'll manage. Thanks for the buffs."

Mina arrived last, and sheepishly hounded them for bringing Astra along. "Mobs down here couldn't catch us if they tried. We're taking him to 29 for a labyrinth run next," Morningstar joked.

He cleared up the last of his consumables, double-checked his battle-ready inventory, triple-checked that his gear was in good shape, and announced the plan. "I'll take aggro. I'll call if I need to switch. This should be a standard run. We'll get in and out as quickly as we can and try not to attract the Watcher along the way. Everyone set?"

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"The last time I did this quest," Wulfrin replied with a shrug. "But when that happened, I was in Astra's shoes. This go around will be much different. Mind if I take point? 90% of my combat kit is nullified by Bob's ability anyway."

Wulfrin led the charge towards the dilapidated castle of their kingly foe. There was no guard opposition, likely because this was meant to be 'forgotten'. The throne room however, was immaculate and very clearly a boss arena. On a throne at the far end, massive greatsword leaned up against itself set the Forgotten King himself. Wulfrin pressed in and drew Icingdeath a blade that was significantly smaller in stature. The swordsman were equally as different in stature.

"Morning beautiful," Wulfrin jokingly mocked the undead looking king as he prepared for battle. "I'm home!"

With a wry grin, Wulfrin charged forth with his blade out to the side. The undead king rose from his ruined chair and raised its own blade in response, but Wulfrin had seen the defense coming. He had purposefully made it seem like he was going for an attack high up on the Forgotten Time King's form, but at the last second, his movements became more latteral, ducking just bellow the raided unkept sword and placed his blade firmly in the chest of Bob. Just before impact, a wave of holy light radiated from his left hand as the frigid blade became engulfed with additional might.

"As I said," Wulfrin huffed through gritted teeth as he slid back to his group along the icy floor. "Most of my kit wont touch him, and thus I am merely an unoptimized ST build in this fight."

Clearly Wulfrin was in some sort of pain. He hadn't been hit, yet his expression showed otherwise. His bandaged arm, a stark reminder of the Callisto raid, had bits of steam rolling off of it as if it had just went supernova. Wulfrin knew full well it was the Crystal of Divine light activating again, but he was trying his best to mask the pain it was causing both physically and mentally.

* * *

Recovery?: Not Needed
Wulfrin is at Full HP and EN
Cooldowns: Rending Familiar (1/5)

Post Action: [x16] Tech-B vs Forgotten Time King (15 EN) -2 Stamina -1 Well rested (3/3) = 12 EN
Free Action [System]: none
Free Action [Skill]: Rending Familiar -> Forgotten Time King
Free Action [item]: Rhino Horn: +3 DMG, -1 EVA for rest of encounter

ID 239761 | BD 10 (Major Crit | +2 DMG) | CD 12 | 26+2+8+3=39*16=624-100=524 DMG to FTK. Delay applied, negated by FKA. Freeze 64 applied, negated by FKA. Frostbite 40 applied. Toxic Venom 32 applied.
Crystal of Divine Light +8 DMG Holy: Wulfrin takes double damage from the next attack that hits him.

Stats

Wulfrin | HP: 874/874 | EN: 100/112 | DMG: 26 | MIT:98 | ACC:8 | AA  | EVA:2 1 | PARA-IM | BH:29 | REC: 8 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:7 | PROSP:3
Astra | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 5 | MIT: 2 | ACC: 4 | REC: 1 | EVA: 2 |
Tricolor Mina | HP: 928/928 | EN: 114/114 | DMG: 23 | MIT:38 | ACC:8 | AA  | PHASE | EVA:2 | REC: 8 | HLY: 16 | BLI: 32/-20  | BRN: 56 | FRB: 40 | LD: 5
Morningstar | HP: 966/966 | EN: 120/120 | DMG: 25 | MIT: 60 | EVA: 4 | ACC: 5 | BH: 46 | LD: 6 | REC: 8 | FLN: 16 | AA | PARA-V

[2,0,0,0] Forgotten Time King | HP: 2476/3000 | DMG: 275 | MIT: 100 | ACC: 3 | Delay (0/1)Freeze 64 (0/1) | Frostbite 40 (0/2) | Toxic Venom 32 (0/3) | Rend 28 (0/2)
Forgotten King's Authority | This boss is immune to debuffs and disablements.

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Astra continued to munch on the snacks Wulfrin supplied and nodded along to his companions words, before turning his attention to the newly arrived veteran player before them. He had yet to meet her, but he could tell from her gear and the way she held herself that she was another strong player, someone who has been risking their lives on the frontline. Astra offered another smile and introduced himself as she approached, because that was the polite thing to do. Plus, if they're going to be working as a team to battle this boss, they'd need to be acquainted. This was Astra's first foray into the world of fighting higher level bosses in SAO, and Mina was right, it was pretty dangerous for a newer player to be in these parts. With that danger in mind, Astra hoped that he could at least contribute to this fight, and not burden his teammates. 

The throne room that housed the Forgotten Time King was impressive for a boss arena. The ornate but worn-down stylings of the room around them definitely gave off a majestic royal vibe. Still, there was something eerie and haunting about the arena all the same. The towering and threatening gaunt king sitting on the throne didn't help that case either. Astra watched as the boss in front of him rose to his feet, and lifted it's massive greatsword. As a reflexive response, Astra gripped the hilt of his sword and unsheathed it, taking a battle stance position. 

Wulfrin was the first to lead the charge, darting towards the undead king and hitting him with a powerful strike. Astra did his best to study Wulfrin's movements as he attacked the king with his icy blade. He'd be studying both Morningstar and Mina as well, when he'd have the time during the battle. He had to take in every moment to learn as they arrived, because this could be a taste of what it was like as a frontliner. 

Astra was next to make a move towards the Forgotten Time King. He propelled himself forward with a dash, and made his way towards the dilapidated lord. With his sword at his side, and one arm in front, he planned the strike he'd make. Okay, I just need to avoid his attacks, and make sure I don't catch aggro. I'll do my best to get some chip damage in, help out the best I can. The Forgotten Time King loomed over him as he grew closer, still focused on Wulfrin from that last attack. This was Astra's chance to get a hit in. The blade of his sword began to glow a luminescent light blue, and particles of what look like stardust trailed behind the blade as Astra moved. It was time to initiate a sword art. Astra leapt upwards at the king, bringing his sword upwards in a fluid motion. The blade connected with the thigh of the Forgotten Time King, and made it's way upward as it cut through him. 

Astra landed back on his two feet and jumped backwards, making his way closer to Wulfrin. He managed to successfully get off the sword art and slash at FTK, but it looked like all he did was tickle him. At least he was able to contribute somewhat. Now it was about survival. 

***

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Violet laughed at Star's joke, shaking her head at the thought of bringing a fresh new rookie and dragging them towards one of the most dangerous activities that they actually did in this game. "What, wanna prep the kid for a boss raid this early?" she said dryly, walking towards Astra with an amused look on her face. "I'm suddenly starting to understand the mentality of throwing the kid at FTK! at least he's gonna get a good handle on how <<Switching>> works. All we gotta do is make sure Astra doesn't catch Aggro~" It wouldn't be that hard, unless they accidentally crit the boss, in which case it was just a case of him calling for one of them to Switch so that he didn't get dusted.

A simple task, really.

As they moved inside of the dilapidated, forgotten castle, drawing ever closer towards the boss, Violet checked over her weapons. Lament had been her go-to for the longest time, and was one of the first high-quality weapons that she'd really gotten her hands on in this game. However, during this boss it would be worth next to nothing - especially considering the fact that FTK had complete immunity to damn near any effect that could disable it. "Guess I only really have one option, here." she sighed, watching as Astra and Wulfrin tore into the boss. The telltale sign of a DoT effect appearing splashed across the King's body, before diminishing slightly as any of the disabling effects vanished from it.

Violet reached into her left arm Holster, drawing out Ember, twisting the handle of the bladed fan to make the edge jut out just enough to allow her to use it as a makeshift knife. The edge practically steamed with heat, a ghostly white flame licking across the blade's surface. "It's go time." she said quietly, before rushing at the boss with narrowed eyes, her mask easily sliding across her face as she reached the King, stabbing him several times with the bladed Fan. After her combo finished, she drew out her crystal of Divine Light, adding an extra burst of damage to her strike. "GOTCHA!" She shouted, a grin on her face as its health bar seemed to almost rocket down.

being so close did have its downsides, though.

Violet let out a strangled noise as she was abruptly skewered by FTK, her health almost immediately shooting into the yellow as she was thrown backwards towards the rest of her team. FTK had gotten to its feet, its empty gaze watching over them in seeming disinterest. She shakily got to her feet, wincing slightly as she turned towards Morningstar. "You wanted point, Right? <<Switch>> with me!"

Post Action: ST-I Vs FTK 

SYSTEM Action: <<Switch>> Call -> Morningstar

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And the fight was on.

He was surprised to see Astra join in so quickly. Quite honestly, Morningstar hadn't expected him to fight at all. It was safer to sit on the sidelines; Star wouldn't have blamed him. It showed courage, though he wasn't in favor of others playing so risky.

The same could have been said about Mina's up-close-and-personal playstyle, but Morningstar settled for a wince and a "yikes."

He switched in with his wounded teammate. He was quick and he could soak up the damage if the king proved quicker. "Wulfrin--stay close. He's on me. Look for a flank and I'll keep aggro."

Morningstar danced around the Forgotten Time King, threading in and out of its attacks. Its attack patterns were repetitive; he didn't need a million playthroughs of the quest to remember how to fight this boss. He deflected a jab from the king's halberd, following it with an inward roll and a mimicry of the attack on Mina. Red pixels floated from the king's gut as Morningstar withdrew his sword. He reset his position and made sure the king's eyes never left him.

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Wulfrin winced as the fabled undead looking king struck Mina with his massive great sword. Astra needed to be careful on two fronts: Energy Usage and Drawing Hate. Morningstar switched places with Mina with blinding speed as the dust from the attack settled. Wulfrin acknowledged his guild master's order with a nod before shifting focus back to the Time King. His opening came only a few split seconds later.

"Sword Skill," Wulfrin's voice slightly raspier and grittier, cut the through the air like a serrated razor. "ICE DEVIL'S RAGE!"

Wulfrin's eyes shifted from their usual crimson hue to a cold icy blue on black sclera. Icingdeath hummed with power as its blade began to glow a similar cerulean hue. With blinding speed Wulfrin closed any distance he had from the time king and began unleashing a barrage of fury filled attacks that chunked the boss's remaining pool of health. As he skid to a stop on the other side of their foe, Wulfrin dropped to a knee, sliding on the icy floor.

"Damn," Wulfrin said to himself between labored breaths. "It's getting worse."

Out of the corner of his eye, a figure flickered out of existence. No doubt it was his unsolicited stow away. Wulfrin's focus snapped instantly back to the battle at hand.

"Astra!" Wulfrin called out. "Try to avoid using Sword Arts! They'll drain your energy faster while only dealing as much as your basic attacks! It's almost down so let us keep him busy!"

* * *

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The Forgotten Time King had already done some damage. Astra watched as Mina unleashed a combo on the foe, but still took some damage from a following attack. It took everything in him not to call out to the veteran player, and ask if they were okay. He knew from there reaction and their tenacity that they would still end up just fine, especially with what ensued. Mina and Morningstar performed a <<switch>>, something Astra hadn't yet done during his time in Aincrad. The attacks that Morningstar performed seemingly did a great amount of damage against the undead king. He continued to watch again as Wulfrin unleashed a sword skill that included a barrage of icy attacks, but had also noted the difference in him once they'd been performed. These skills and arts were new to him, he'd never been in a situation like this before. Were his companions okay? Would they be able to finish off the daunting foe in front of them? He had no doubts about the abilities of the veterans he was with, but their actions still seemed strenuous nonetheless. 

Wulfrin's orders towards Astra didn't fall on deaf ears. "Right!" He said in affirmation, his hand gripped tightly around his sword. Sure, sword arts would be a lost cause during this fight for him. He would be expending too much energy to do a minimal amount of damage. Wulfrin was right, it was more about keeping attention. He would try to perform basic attacks from here on out, while hopefully avoiding the ire and aggro of the Forgotten Time King. One hit would surely wipe out the novice from both Aincrad and the real world. It was a risk that had to be taken, but one that he was certainly conscious of. 

Any move he could make would hopefully be enough to keep his companions from being eliminated. Astra rushed back into the fray, once more readying his sword for another strike against the boss stood with its greatsword in front of him. It wasn't a big hit, but Astra managed to slash a few times more at the Forgotten Time King stationed in front of him. After his hits had landed, barely doing even a modicum of damage, Astra slid backwards to a relatively safer spot. Okay, we just need to keep this up. He's almost dead, we can't give up now. He wasn't contributing much, if anything at all, to this fight. At least he gave it his best, though. Now it was time to wait for his companions to make their moves, and see what would happen next. 

***

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