(Event) Dawn of Preparation | Page 4

Eryl didn’t see Luna on the other side of Lucia and the large feline when they first approached. She did feel her, in the edges of her mind, thanks to their empathic connection. At first Eryl just dismissed it as a strong thought of her, or a premonition that Luna was thinking of her. But when the blonde stepped into Eryl’s vision, those violet eyes were unmistakable.


Eryl’s stonewall face broke out in a slim, gentle smile when she saw Luna. Her hard brown eyes gave way, just a small amount, to what is best described as pleased. No doubt through their connection, Luna would feel the rather intense wash of happiness that came of Eryl at seeing Luna. It was, after all, what she was hoping for just a few moments earlier. She wrapped her arms around Luna, returning the gentle embrace.


“Hey, cutie,” Eryl said giving her a soft peck on the forehead. “Of course I recognized you. Good to see you again too.”


To her raven haired patron, named Lucia apparently, Eryl gave a simple nod once they were past the gate and out of ear shot of the guards, “Thanks for getting me in back there.”


Eryl wasn’t one to mince words, or one for pleasantries or undue words. She knew how this would end up, she knew she would be asked to repay the gift somehow sooner than later. She doubted that it would be something she would enjoy too much, but it was a seed that was planted to make a stronger partnership grow. An investment in the future, another tree to grow in her garden of allies.


Partner. That was a funny word, now wasn’t it? Eryl smirked. Of course she wasn’t beguiling herself into believing Luna was exclusively her’s. How they met made that abundantly clear. But Eryl did know what they had was something unique and special. It was good to know how Lucia fit into things early on.


“Glad to know you have friends in high places,” Eryl asked giving Lucia a nod, “What exactly do you specialize in, here?”

@Luna Avalbane @Lucia Mierz

 

As he heard the advice of Weiss, Bradwynne pondered about it. He thought what he had been thinking was wrong. Being a rebel and advance without thinking about the superior's orders could be really detrimental if he thought about it. Although everything that the leader ordered looked so wrong in his eyes. What if the leader was right after all and his rashness would cause more harm than good? How will he answer to those who he wanted to save, but he really harmed by his impudence?

"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities..." Bradwynne picked up that passing thought, and he had remembered much more following those lines. Maybe it was the lesson that the Star Maiden who had inherited that same position from the Star Maiden of old was trying to impart on him. Maybe it was the Duke's intention to reform him, as he might saw that defect in his character although he claimed that he was a hero. And in this future battle, being patient with everything would reap merits for his own knowledge. For any defect that the Dissonance could see, it would manipulate to its own advantage. And to be a burden to the party and to the people was not Bradwynne wanted to happen. And so he would heed the advice of Weiss. And maybe he would need more of such advice in the near future. He really hoped that he could talk more with her. Like the Star Maiden of old, she seemed to have a grasp on the true essence of being a hero.

As he quietly listened to the proceedings of the meeting, he was then bothered by the reports of the two other players that they were locked out of their UIs after they died from the creatures of the Dissonance, effectively locking them within the game. And then he suddenly remembered something. After sending some mails to some persons, he quickly approached the Duke, and with a guard's salute, he then said, "Permission to speak for the duration of the meeting, my lord."

@Roland Rutledge

 

Area Inner Courtyard

Aalam would have been very content to have a bit of wine and listen to how something was trying the end all life in existence in Terra. He was getting used to the timing at this point, and well the fact that something was always going to try and kill them it stopped life from getting boring. It was nice to have a bit of concert knowledge on what they were to be facing after all. Most of the players on knew what they had experience and as good as they were with these things sometimes the NPCs were better. It was their world, after all, they tended to know it better than most. So in the nitty gritty, it was that a creature from the time before time has returned and was trying to kill them; however, they had …..What did she call them, star maiden weapons? Well, a one-star maiden weapon that should be able to kill the thing, if the legend was correct however as her story said this was something that had happened before, and it has been destroyed. Yet it still has come back hopefully this time would be the last time was an exciting creature one if nothing else. A worthy job.

The plan seemed to be too over whelp it with an exceptional level of force and with things like this that tend to work. However, they would need to wipe every trace of this creature form this plane of existence. That would be much more difficult. As for it bring his fears to life that would be something he would enjoy the chance to kill his personal demon, well who could past up and offer like that. If anything else it would be an enlightening experience and then could drink after that. There was excellent spiced rum and possibly a nice little fishing trip he was looking forward to. It was nice to see that he wasn’t going to have to do much everyone seemed to understand that weight of the …………and welp that just went out the window. Turning his attention towards Rat then back to Roland, there was about three second where he was able to put an arrow through her shoulder. However, it seemed that the duke wanted this to not make a scene shame, three arrows and he would have had her quiet and then they could always fix her up with some good old magic.

The fact that he wasn’t going to be able to log out was a bit worrisome, but then again that just meant they didn’t need to get hit. Making his way to the courtyard swiping two bottle throwing a shoulder around rat, he need to whisper something to his comrade after all. “If you ever speak like that again in a briefing here I will cut out your tongue. Oh and have a bottle.” Dropping one in her hand and making his way over to the Krelain party. “Well good day my Lord and ladies glad to know what we have to kill isn’t it. Wine ?”

@Tertoria @Rat

 

Weiss

It seemed the Great Hall became a den of confusion and outbursts as the Astorean's all began to panic and the Duke even decided to allow everyone to hear this. It started with simple enough questions, then went on to reveals about not logging out and other things that left the Tertorian's in a puzzled state. The confidence of these people went from ignorantly high to very cautious if not panicked.

And of course there was Alphabet Chocolate.

....

The platinum haired Disciple of Ella watched all of this with no look of disdain. Her eyes took in all of it. Her ears heard every word uttered. After Roland finally spoke himself and made his recommendation while stating how the adventurers were in much more peril than he thought.

....Ja. Do that please. Not a person among you should not know.

Saya's eyes fell on her. In fact all of the Tertorian's expected her to have all the answers as was usually the case. After all, she alone spoke with a Greater Spirit personally, she was directly linked to a Goddess that Tertoria held in the highest esteem for the past 4000 years since it's founding by the original Star Maidens.

Surely she had all the answers...

Des Weiss smiled softly and raised a petite hand to everyone. Her eyes set on Alphabet for a moment. The moment they made eye contact. Alphabet would become overcome with a emotion she never may have felt before, or if she had felt it. It was very rare for the carefree girl with so little inhibitions.

She saw her own reflection. The reflection of Katherine Button. A girl that should certainly not be here. Alphabet would feel as if she was in the presence of someone she should not like.That she should hold a great deal of hatred and antagonism for. At the same time...she felt something completely different that was impossible to pinpoint in all the displeasure. This only became worsened by the agonizing migraine she would suddenly experience. Her brain felt paralyzed from the throbbing jolts and the rose on her head almost seemed to flutter in the wind that... wasn't there.

This is fine.

You there, junge Dame. You look in poor health as well. Are you alright?

The Star Maiden slowly made her way over to the near paralyzed and uncontrollably shaking girl. As she did, she spoke to Cain.

First let my answer your question. Sadly, it depends. Most Dissonance simply fade out of this plane when they are slain. I think some of you who have faced them may have noticed that? How they feel no pain and melt away into nichts when they are killed? Hmmmm... killed is the wrong word. Suppressed is better ja. Because Dissonance is born and comes from another plane of existence or... perhaps a void between existences. Then it does not follow the rules we so try to understand or maintain for ourselves. As far as I understand it. Titanius is the only Level 10 to ever come about in the past 4000 years. The one the Origin's fought back then has never returned so it may be a rare trait. Entschuldigung, I cannot give you a concrete answer my friend.

She reached the girl and touched the rose on her head, obviously noticing the strange fluttering. The moment her pale fingers made contact, Everything Alphabet felt went x1,000,000,000 and she would pass out into Des' arms. The Star Maiden made a shocked look which changed to a look of concern before offering her to guard.

Oh mein....

I think she needs a rest. It could be a issue regarding Dissonance. She is giving off signs that I have never felt before exactly... but do feel of Dissonant origin. I would need more time with her to discern. How she reacted to my touch is beunruhigend. Be careful.

As the guards removed unawakenable Alphabet. Des shifted her gaze.

Now... Seigi and the other woman who had entered. The ones that talked about all of those... strange terms that the Tertorians could not understand. Des had to think for a short moment before speaking to her.

Entschuldigung, I'm afraid many of the words you are saying are like my own hmhm. Hard to understand by most. I cannot say my friends or even Lady Saya can help with your problem if you cannot... logout as you put it. I can say that ja, Dissonance is unlike any normal monster or foe. It will break any laws you think you know.

Des smiled and reached for Seigi's arms touching one of the bandages. She did not even have to see it. Her hand began to glow white as the shadowy arms underneath sapped the light as much as they could through the bandages. Weiss continued to smile as if this was no big deal. Then she removed her hand and looked into Seigi's eyes. The same soul searching gaze Brad ad experienced was felt... The blazing soul of Raina Raythean aka Seigi Ling Ling being seen by the boundless near divine presence of Des' vast white...

Beeindruckend...

But also... unglücklich. For now....

Your dilemma isn't something I can help with. Not here and not now. Titanius is my priority and you have only proven just what will transpire here if it is not prevented. Far worse fates than the one you are experiencing my friend. Let us work together to prevent that... ja?

She went to Ashiore and also gazed at her. The fact her soul was still intact was good however. Strangely enough considering appearances. The soul damage was less for the physically rotting female.

I can only imagine what grusel you have been through to become this way. However your soul is still burning brightly. If this was brought about by Dissonance you have my word I will take your prayers into my heart in the battle. That goes for anyone that does not want to fight... you do not have too. However, your home may be lost. If this is your last stand then I ask if you would stand with your friends? If they are not your friends, they are surely your race? Humanity?

Pulling away and slowly returning to Roland's area of the room. Des looked at everyone and said;

Everyone. You created this land of your own and defied the rules in place. Much like Dissonance itself.. Creating a zuhause in this world is a challenging feat. One you did a wunderbar job with! Nun dann... I may sound verrückt for saying this but, if you have somewhere else to go. If you need to take a moment to be sure this is what you want. Because like those two have said. Your lives are at stake. Your families, your souls. It is a choice you make and regardless what Priscilla has said. Regardless how nobility such as my father may feel. The soul should do what it truly is meant for. Do not feel that contract with Tertoria is so binding that you should give up everything to fulfill it. There is a point of no return and you must be aware of it.

She closed her eyes and her face even while radiating the purity it did. Darkened as she frowned.

This may be the last chance you all have. The Star Maidens of old decided to face darkness. To face Dissonance. They did that so this sort of thing would never continue. I exist to uphold that.

So friends...

Kampf... or... Flug?

The shadow over her eyes vanished and she outstretched her hands. A small laugh escaped her.

Hahaha. That being said. I would be deeply geehrt to form lasting bonds with you all in the fight against Dissonance. Tertoria has been isolated from most other lands for one reason or another and this is a truly historical moment. Once Titanius is defeated. The doors to the future will fly open and who knows what awaits us all there? Ella wants everyone to do what they feel is best. If you do not fight, others surely will. Lives will be lost but it is only a matter of whose. All one can do is ensure that it is as few as possible.

That the ones you care for are safe and opfergaben that could be avoided are not made in vain.

Lord Krelian... if everyone is ready to proceed. We can begin the plan details? If not, then we will deal with what comes from those choices. All choices have consequences.

I will reply later with Part 2 The Plan. If you want to make smaller personal threads or comms for this. Do it outside this thread. This event closes by this weekend.

 

"So, what'd I miss?" she laughed cheekily, taking in everyone's presence in stride. It'd been awhile since she'd seen Roland and the like and it made the event that much more special to her. "Rudolf, don't ignore me!" she whined, pawing at the man's heels as Ashiore continued to relay her tale. Towards the end of it, however, Alpha felt she couldn't fault Roland for his grave crime of refusing to announce her appearance for the entire world to hear; even she knew that Ashiore's words carried some weight to it. She pouted and gave the rotting woman a consolatory pat on the back, a sense of camaraderie giving her a sense of sympathy at the woman's plight. As amazing as it sounds to be in Terrasphere forever, she didn't enjoy seeing a person she liked being worried. They'd both gone through the same experience of losing a companion, permanently, and that made Alpha feel slightly more obligated to give a pitiful attempt to help her. "Don't you worry, mama Alpha's gonna fix it! Uh, just make sure to put ice on all that," she gestured at Ashiore's decaying, clawed hands and deathly pallor. "It'll be pretty bad if you become part of the walking dead before we can heal ya up," she grinned, deciding to try her best to remain aloof and uncaring to Ashiore's condition, no matter how much the rot made her stomach churn in remembrance of the gun-toting zombies that had ripped out Terry's throat. She shook her head. Never mind that, happy thoughts. Happy thoughts. Like clouds with faces and blushes that're harvesting moisture for their little moisture farms.

And she would've made to follow after Roland if not for the necessity of wanting to bid everyone adieu first. On any other occasion, she would've left without much hassle but, considering that this was a short reunion between her many friends, she wanted to have at least a word in with everyone to catch up on how they were doing. Until she turned to catch Weiss' eyes.

Contempt boiled within her, a strange feeling of spite and malcontent that she hadn't felt so strongly in such a long time. She wanted to look away, to chatter it up with Cain or Seigi or anyone other than this woman. Even from the times long before, when she was more free in her negative feelings and was capable of feeling and accepting such things, she hadn't felt something so hot and angry and violent that threatened to burst out of her skin. Her fingers twitched. Not even in Terry's death was she consumed by this pure, sudden strike of rage, instead wallowing in sadness, regret, and denial.

She could feel a part of her that she had long ignored; a part that yearned for family. A part that looked up to people like Cain and Roland and Seigi and Comet and Ivan like siblings, children, and parents. And she squashed it down like a boot squashing a roach but, like a nasty bug, its feelings oozed out of it and she felt a throbbing pain in the back of her head. She didn't feel her body shake but shake it did. She hadn't noticed Weiss draw closer but, had she had the presence of mind, she would've struck the girl where she stood, regardless of the consequences. Her body itched, in small tremors, for brutality and sadistic barbarity. To erase everything that she had seen, for that small moment, reflected in Weiss' eyes.

She wanted to curse, to promise threats that were not empty in the slightest; to rage and doom the world to misery and pain like what she had felt. Unimaginable, unstopping agony. Vindictiveness ran through her and, in the midst of the chaos and flurry of feelings that ran through her, she smiled. And giggled. And hollered. And laughed. Because that was the only thing Alphabet Chocolate knew how to do.

Maybe the uproarious chortles that she had thought she produced never made it out of her throat because Weiss drew even nearer, unrelenting, and Alpha collapsed into the sweet, sweet relief of unconsciousness. Maybe attending the party was a bad idea after all. And what a shame, she was planning on throwing in some neat DJ mix-tapes in the middle of the party too.

 

Area Inner Courtyard

Roland's eyes narrowed on Wiess as her explanations flowed, her joke clearly going over Roland's head. Up until this point he had no reason to not believe her testimony, after-all it was clear they shared the same enemy. But something in her explanations seemed off, as if there was a crucial detail missing. Was it possible she was trying to lead them to something for her own gains? Roland visibly shook the paranoid thought from his head as her attention turned towards Alpha. Within, moments the girl's legs crumpled beneath her as she fell unconscious. Reflexively Roland reached for his sword. He had been a fool, letting such a being into his home, but it was Weiss' own words that stayed his hand. "...he is giving off signs that I have never felt before exactly... but do feel of Dissonant origin...." The words rang true to Roland's ears.

With a grimace he called his guards forward, "I've been aware she's had some sort of affliction for some time, but I did not realize the dissonance was related.... I'd like to know more at some point, but for now we have more pressing issues." With a quick direction, Roland instructed his guards to take the now unconscious @Alphabet Chocolate away to one of the guest bedrooms. Turning he waved his hand at @Bradwynne, clearly intending to answer his question at a later point for now, the task at hand. A small amount of players began to fill the inner courtyard, and unless his eyes deceived him, he thought he saw @Lucia Mierz in their number. With as loud of a voice as he could muster Roland called out,

Fellow, adventurers, it has come to our attention that this coming threat holds a danger unlike any in this world. We have testimony that indicates that the monster we face here in Astorea has the ability to block one's UI upon death. This will mean you cannot communicate, equip items, and even worse, log out. I understand fear and hesitation in taking down such a beast, but understand this affliction has already spread to some of our number. What's worse is that, we have further testimony indicating that if this beast's power goes unchecked it will cover all of this realm with its...'abilities'. But fear not. We have some of the world's strongest allies at our side, and a plan to defeat the monster so long...as we stick together.

Roland waited, hoping the monologue would seep in. They couldn't afford half the player base to get cold feet, or else they were all doomed. That said he couldn't rightfuly ask them to join a fight without knowing the risks. Turning Roland gestured to Lord Krelian.

Please, Lord Krelian. Tell us your plan...

 

Lucia couldn't help smiling bad to @Madison Freebird , nodding at the simple greeting. She felt she understood Madison well at least, as if the woman were cut from a cloth much like her own. While Madison's might be a bit more gilded and colorful, it was still similar. She at least vaguely understood the woman's confusion from her body language and attitude. "It's tough doing this sort of thing right? If I'm being honest, I don't think it's being handled very well... The manner in which a noble responds to the situation is reminiscent of this game's world rather then 'our' way. Then there's the generic 'unable to log out' situation which will cause no small amount of panic-- It's not like our equipment has anything that can erase our brains or manipulate us against our will, such a thing would never pass inspection." Lucia couldn't help sighing and shaking her head. Everyone was so flustered, but it was certainly just all a part of some elaborate ruse, some trick or plot point to make the situation more challenging or give a sense of permanence preventing players from simply reviving and rushing back in. After all, weren't such things common?

Though Eryl's sudden kiss on Luna's forehead made her brow knit a little. This sort of thing she could expect from Vivian, even herself a little, predators were predators after all, but glancing to @Luna Avalbane she couldn't help a somewhat bitter expression. After all she'd had a very firm and careful talk with Luna about this sort of thing the last time when Vivian had done things to her. It was a little clear the talk didn't seem to carry much weight. With a soft but burdened sigh, she lifted a hand up to Luna's head, giving it a soft pet. "Luna... We talked about fighting back before right?" Lucia asked with an unsure expression. She loved Luna to death, but was afraid she'd meet someone who wasn't quite so nice during one of these excursions.

Luckily though, @Eryl Justice seemed to be genuinely interested in Luna, not the type she hoped to safeguard the girl from. It wasn't that she didn't trust Luna, but she saw the girl as an innocent and friendly woman who had a hard time wronging others. There was a lot of purity and innocence in her that made Lucia overprotective. "I'm glad Luna's found someone else who can appreciate her. If you'd like to join us as well, we always have room." She offered with a gentle smile, after all, Lucia's little group was always ready and willing to accept more girls. If Eryl was willing, Lucia wouldn't hesitate to give Luna's head a soft pet once more, contently encouraging her. "I'm proud of you though, you did so well~ Just, maybe let me know next time in a message so I don't worry about you, okay?" She asked with a soft hopeful smile.

 

Area Inner Courtyard

Bradwynne walked back towards the back of Weiss, quiet, but the shakiness of his form was evident by the jingling of his armor. Obviously, everything that he watched and saw was a lot for his mind to take in, and he would need a good amount of time to consolidate the thoughts going on in his head. Apparently there were more things in Terrasphere that were of Dissonant origin different from the Titanius. Things that could affect the status of the players, and even their minds. The monster of unknown origin that had claimed the great hero Seigi, and a power inside the body of the girl named Alphabet Chocolate, that he once met in Vintergard following the corrupt judge's trial. Maybe a power of the same origin had claimed the former King Theo, and, recently, Magi Heart, the person who for the most part had instilled a change in his character in his quest to be a true hero. Maybe all of this atrocity could be related to that dark god that he had known in his journey within an abandoned church somewhere in Falderen. Everything seemed so connected yet so hazy for him. Maybe after his meeting, he would try to fit the pieces of the puzzle so that he would come to the conclusion. But maybe he would find more pieces if he would try to stick with these persons. Weiss and the other people from Tertoria. Roland and the Duchy. Seigi. Cain Darlite. Majolica and the Witch Ops. Zeus and the Lion's Pride. And this arena against Titanius would be a great minefield of information. He had already decided anyway.

He knew that he might not log out of the game if he died here, and his situation should be the most problematic since he was mostly alone at home. He knew that if he died here, he would sign a death warrant on himself. With no food or water, his real life body will languish in a few days. Hopefully the five-hour alarm on the power supply of his VR machine would work if that would happen. But even if that, he never knew until when he was going to last at that rate, even with contingencies. But even so, he would join the fight. If they did not stop Titanius now, scenarios worse than that fade might happen, and it would mean more players trapped within the game. He could run away from Terrasphere to save his skin, but he could not help himself to abandon everyone who was experiencing this kind of a problem. And so he decided to see everything through. He will save the players from this god that was trying to tamper and affect their bodies outside of the game. No. One. Will. Be. Left. Behind.

 

Area Inner Courtyard

After finding @Portia Ahrens and greeting the woman he escorted her inside but parted ways with her once they were in the great hall. Alric hadn't been following along with the meeting too well this whole time and opted to stay quiet for all of it. Occasionally he would not along with what was being said, but there were just too many faces and voices to keep track of along with not enough willpower on his part to sort through them all. If this was what being nobility felt like he was in for some rough times ahead.

He had to resist the urge to groan as people just kept talking... But onced the conversation was moved to the inner courtyard it seemed they'd finally be getting to the point of the meeting; the plan. His ears perked up to catch whatever details he could now.

 

Outer Courtyard

"So I have been kinda stuck in this game, not able to log out. Maybe it's a bug to this monster, in particular, maybe it's a trait the Dissonance commonly shares? What I wanna say is: Think twice about facing death, even if you were to respawn!"

"I can't access game messages, or my inventory, or anything. I haven't been able to log out either since that day."

…

A news clip of a tragedy in a different state flickered through his mind. A young girl, comatose and on life support while perpetually connected to a VRMMO. A young girl, driven to grievous madness, reaching out in a moment’s clarity. A rose, blooming over her chest, the mark of otherworldly influence cut and clear.

His dark eyes widened, and all the flowery words that the Star Maiden spewed out fell upon deaf ears, Alphabet’s entrance and unconsciousness, Rat’s light jabs all scattering into indiscernible pieces. Not again. Not a fucking gain. It had been a good half month since they slew the Bandit King, since Seigi took a dive into the depths of Kase. Had been a good half month of pure silence on the subject. Had been a good half month where he simply assumed that she would be fine. Even when she failed to respond, he had just assumed it had gotten buried under the messages that others sent her.

But now, here she stood, proclaiming the same malediction that the Thorn Witch held.

His gaze shifted to the bandaged arms. A stylistic choice? No, to hide the marks that were left behind. And Ashiore too! He knew, he KNEW! And yet he chose to treat it as a cosmetic choice, a weird easter egg. Didn’t much far enough and now? It all came down upon him with the force of a sledgehammer, pulverizing what remained of his sanctuaries.

This cannot stand.

Level 10? First to come in four thousand years? Fuck that, he was going to tear that fuckwad apart and uproot whatever influence it had over Ashiore.

Otherworldly cheese-eating freak of nature? Fuck that, he was going to claw out its entrails and scatter them to the far reaches of this planet for what it did to Seigi.

“…excuse me, Lady Flanst.”

This cannot stand.

The Ashen Blade leveled itself at him, promising violence where there was once companionship. And now she was gone.

The Scarlet Arrow leveled itself at him, promising heartbreak where there was once empathy.And now she was lost.

The God Fist…

He picked up his pace, fury scarred upon his face, the phantoms that he bore on his shoulders urging him further down the depths. Draw it out. Draw it all out. Destroy the head and tear out the spine and immolate the remains.

This cannot stand.

 

Well, the name of the game seemed to have changed considerably. With both Seigi and someone she hadn't met before but who looked like a fresh zombie proclaiming that after fighting with the Dissonance and dying they couldn't log out any more all the players were a lot more concerned than before. The people from this world seemed to have been forgotten for now as everyone focused on the new information. Mizuki herself frowned as she looked at both Seigi and Ashiore, studying them carefully. What was she even hoping (or dreading) to see?

What are they thinking...

'They' being the creators of this world, the designers of Terrasphere. Was this intentional? Mizuki shook her head as she instead focused on the task at hand. Looking at all the concerned players she frowned, feeling bothered for some reason. It wasn't until Weiss spoke that she realized what was bothering her, at which point her frown deepened.

The people of this world have been facing the risk of losing their lives and souls for ages, but you only shoot in a panic when we immortals are suddenly in danger...

Directly after she said that she blinked, looking both surprised that she said it out loud and somewhat embarrassed as she immediately realized it was unfair to be bothered by that. She treated this world as real, but of course for players it would be a pressing concern if they, who only became part of this world for fun, suddenly were faced with actual danger. Clearing her throat Mizuki tried to pretend she hadn't said that, instead stepping back into the conversation as she nodded towards Weiss.

I can try to explain what the other immortals are talking about, but suffice to say that we are connected to another world and the Dissonance seems to be interfering with that connection. Which raises a lot of questions and makes it even more important that we deal with Titanius. Maybe defeating the Dissonance will help, or maybe it'll give us a clue about what is happening.

Mizuki wasn't planning to back out from the fight, although she would make some preparations. She wasn't a techwiz but it shouldn't be too difficult to ensure that she'd eventually log out whether she could access the UI or not. Easiest solution, don't use the charger so her VR set would shut down of its own eventually. She highly doubted the Dissonance or anything else could prevent THAT.

And find someone willing to help her out if things went wrong.

She nodded at @Seigi in response to the redheaded heroine asking her to memorize the rest of the conversation as she had to go and take care of something.

(By request of Seigi describing Seigi leaving the Great Hall.)

 

Part of Seigi was happy she had it finally off her chest. Another part wondered if she had done the right thing. But it wasn't just about herself anymore. Too many players treated this game just as a pastime, and it was a good thing they did.

Terrasphere was scaringly absorbing. And now... here she was. More wealth accumulated than any of the other player nobles, yet still fighting rather than laying low. It was kind of silly, really, like some of those terrible Isekai animes turned reality! Then again, it was just a big, right? Only took a little bit of time to fix it. So why wasn't Seigi forcefully logged out.

Shaking her head, the red-head had to concentrate on matters at hand. Titanius was a threat on multiple levels. Right now, however, the paths branched.

Getting over her initial urge to punch Weiss, because of what happened to Alphabet, the little girl's touch, presence, and soul-piercing gaze just made it impossible to think of her as anything but a good person! The Star Maiden, nonetheless. At first, it had looked like the red-eye did something to Alphabet, but she said something about Dissonance and then there was... this very familiar looking rose.

Seigi had the option to seek comfort with Ashiore, the Zombiegirl suffered the same problems as Seigi. Clearly, they could share a bond only unique to them.

Then there was the sound thing to do what Roland suggested. Get with her family in touch. Make someone contact them. Why... hadn't she done it sooner? Because of her young age? Angst? Fear of a worse answer? Maybe it was precisely because of her indecision that Ashiore had befallen the same fate, too? Exactly. But... Wendy was okay, too. She could talk with the Duke about this at a later point.

Lastly, there was Cain. The person she cared about most in the room about not telling. Especially not in the way it just happened. He was an ever sparkling presence that inspired many. A unique light in his own way. The crimson-hair didn't want to take that from him. It was hard to tell what he had been thinking as he left the room. Part of Seigi wanted to follow but... part of her wanted to talk about anything but herself.

Yes. Even now, Seigi would delude herself in the role of a Hero. Deal with the actual suffering through having fun in her own way. A weird balance she had to maintain. Kinda Masochistic.

"Mizuki!" Seigi called out. "I... gotta take care of something! Can you please tell me about the plan later? If anyone questions if I'm still going to punch Titanius, tell them I will. Thanks!" Before rushing behind the guards that carried off @Alphabet Chocolate. Seigi wasn't willing to talk about herself. A Hero prioritized the suffering of others before their own. Ah, never had it been easier than right now.

->Exit Thread(?)

 

Krelian

With all the revelations being thrown around with impunity. Judas' would only lean forward with his hand over his mouth and listen with a lack of any apparent reaction. He like many others, did turn to look at Des for answers. However he was intrigued by all of these developments in a way that few others, if any,were. He couldn't dare feel he truly understood what was being talked about at times but he did know that this was not the norm. Change was a big part of what was needed and he was liking what he was hearing.

Yes of course Lady Weiss, Lord Rutledge. I do believe I may be able to offer a method of dealing with at the very least the Titanius issue.

The caped man rose from his seat and offered a miner bow of his head to everyone.

As you have heard. This foe is ancient, powerful, and horrifying. I daresay we stand no chance. That of course would be a lie. We stand a good chance. Why?

A small smirk appeared as he adjusted his glasses and continued, taking the smile away as he did so.

Lady Saya has indeed defeated this foul beast several times. During my research I have even watched and collected samples of debris from the battle. Unlike most Dissonance that has a bad habit of making themselves non existent when they perish. Titanius sometimes leaves behind fragments of flesh for short periods before they too, finally fade away.

He nodded to Saya in a showing of gratefulness although the look she gave him back made one wonder if it may have been unwanted appreciation.

And the Star Maiden of this generation. Des Weiss, Why do we even have a King with a saintly child of such power and wisdom is our guiding hand? Surely she could destroy the beast in a single strike.... or am I wrong?

A single glance at Des who made no open reaction of her own. In fact she seemed to be lost in her own head ever since Mizuki spoke.

If only Titanius would stay dead. That is the true problem. You may ask... Why are we even needed? I would tell you a blunt truth. You are distractions. and to some extent, surgeons. Which I will explain shortly.

All these times Saya has slain it has only cause it to return, sometimes the same strength, other times stronger. It has finally reached it's peak limit if Lady Weiss' information is true, and I'm sure it is... so...

What is keeping it alive per say? One day I came across a interesting discovery. There are beings that can separate their bodies from their minds... and even their souls. They can go into other planes of existence, use telepathy, and various other, out of body experiences. Even though I already knew such things were possible, that night I was looking into it in spare time. I tend to have much of it.

Then the thought came to me, Dissonance is said to be soulless, malefic entities that feed on all things. Well... Second Order Dissonance is not that way, is it? A Second Order is what remains of a poor victim's soul. Having transfigured into Dissonance. Then... I went and watched Saya's last battle with Titanius.

Saya made a look at the man. Openly unhappy with his spying without her knowing.

Titanius is...a monster with many tendrils I'm sure you have all noticed. It works to keep it's body safe from attack. This is hardly needed of course since Titanius' main body is enormous. Easily the size of this fortress if not more so. It's hide is easier to tear than one would think. It's lower body appears to be soft while it's upper much harder. Saya's killing method has always been to use her strongest attack straight at the head and that often causes the rest to deteriorate. However... what about it's soul?

He placed a hand to his chest for dramatic flair.

Let us assume it is a Second Order Dissonance. Then surely it's entire body is a soul correct? Not exactly... what if the body for this particular Dissonance was but a shell. When Saya destroys the shell so savagely... it fades into wherever these creatures come from and leave's it's shell to wither away? What I am getting at is we will not be finished with this creature until it's soul is completely erased. How do you kill a soul...?

He looked to Des.

Being a Star Maiden grants you powers that originally were bestowed by Tria, Goddess of the Soul. You can slay Dissonance of both orders equally. Yet, it could still flee before you hit it's... shall we say, core? There is also the possibility it's body can function even after it's soul is destroyed. This is where most of you come in.

Des and I already discussed it earlier and she agreed it is a thought she never entertained. Perhaps she was not wanting to admit a human being could become something that monstrous ? That only the First Order could? Alas, I feel this is our only option to stop the feeding. What I offer we do is this...

Flanst and I will attack the canyon from the west with our forces. I will place mine in front, due o a natural defense they have against Titanius' mental distortions. Astorea will lead from the East. We must cut through the army of tentacles and descend into the canyon's depths, facing the beasts lower body and doing as much damage as possible to it.

Saya, will as she always does. Fight the head of the beast from above. I will supply some ranged assistance from the west for that feat and you Astorean's will follow her and prepare for the meat of the plan.

Saya will break the flesh of Titanius from above allowing entry into it's head, while the bottom forces tear a hole in it's belly. We will then destroy it from the inside.... of course the soul may not be destroyed by mere physical means. Des Weiss has already stated she will focus on maintaining a high end field to weaken it's effects on us and make combat easier. However she will also be entering the body and using her powers to open a gateway to it's soul. That gateway just so happens to be the area Saya always destroys in her...one shots.

Saya, will lead a party of the strongest you have into the soul of the demon. You will face the true nature of Titanius and when it's soul is broken... the body should fall from the rest of our efforts. Of course, if the body succeeds in wiping out our forces. Well, it may be able to to trap you all within it's soul forever.

Krelian adjusted his glasses again. Almost certain that most of what he said sounded insane and confusing to these simpletons. Yet, this was what they would have to do. Des said nothing walking up beside him. She simply nodded as he backed up, of course letting the heroine take center stage.

This meeting is closed. You may continue posting however the NPCs will take their leave and a time skip will soon occur.​

 

Roland stood upright, hearing everyone of Krelian's plan. To be honest, when he had heard that he was an alchemist he had hoped his plan would involved a complicated machine run by magic, something akin to a large cannon. It seemed, however, the plan was a much more brutal plan than he had anticipated. "So...three teams..." Roland muttered to himself, "One to attack the lower body, a second to attack the upper, and a third to delve into its depths." It was a bit of over simplification but he felt it more or less boiled down the plan. With a sigh, he rubbed his temples. If it had not been for Seigi's and Ashiore's testimony he wouldn't hesitate. However, the threat from this creature was far greater than anything he had encountered so far. The idea was enough to coat him in cold sweat.

Forcing himself to exhale he saw that the Lord's words were coming to an end. With a wave he motioned to the guards to help the nobles leave the area without being accosted by the small crowd that had formed. As they moved to do so, Roland approached @Bradwynne grabbing him by the arm and whispering in his ear, "The girl that collapsed, go to her room and guard the entrance. Don't let anyone through besides those you saw in the Great Hall.... With the exception of that thief." With that taken care of he turned to @Aalam Abungu, moving close to make sure he wasn't over heard, "Keep an eye on that thief (Rat), and make sure he leaves the premises" After a curt nod he moved away scanning for those still lingering.

A quick glance, confirmed his earlier suspicion. @Lucia Mierz had indeed been in the crowd he had seen once they exited the Great Hall. Moving with purpose Roland approached her and her entourage, offering a slight bow and an apologetic smile, "My apologies, if I had know you were going to make an appearance I would have tried to stall the talks a bit longer so that you could arrive." Roland let the words hang there as he openly noted those who had gathered around her. His smile slipped as he took a more serious tone, "I'm sure you've heard what I said regarding the...circumstances of the battle? It is a serious matter, one that I trust you will not take lightly. That said, we are still in dire need of support from your province, can I still rely on you?" As he asked the question, he extended his hand clearly desiring a handshake from the duchess.

 

As he wanted to know what they were truly facing, he listened intently to the words of this man named Judas Krelian. But even before he listened to him then, he was feeling something strange towards this person. Like, he might never enjoy him as his companion, even when he still did not know him that much yet. Was it because of his name? No, if that, he might be too judgmental. Sure there was Judas Iscariot, but there's also another apostle named Judas, and he stayed loyal to Jesus until he died. But the way he was speaking, reeked mostly of boastfulness and pride, and his wife and his servant was just adding fuel to the fire. But, whatever his motives might be, he should cooperate with him and his coterie so that they could finish this job easily. It was not for him to judge whether he was a good man or if he was evil, since in the same metrics that he judged a person, he woild be judged in the same way.

Bradwynne continued to listen to the strategies laid down by Judas, and he saw that it was a plausible one. Of course it would not be wise if they did to Titanius the same thing that the woman here named Saya did for thirty times. And fortunately, Judas was there in one of those times Saya fought that abomination so that he knew what to do next. So, a large group would be holding off Titanius while a small and select group led by Saya would dig into the origin of it all. Hopefully he would see the kind of power that had caused all the malevolent oddities in Terrasphere so that he could prepare for the worst in the future. For Seigi. For Alphabet. And for all the people affected by this insidious plague that had been caused by this atrocious entity that sought to conquer even their real lives and souls.

The meeting was adjourned really quickly as the people from Tertoria left the manor, to prepare for the incoming battle. He knew that he should also prepare for it, so should be the Duke, and maybe even the King. He had received messages from both the King and the leader of the Lion's Pride, as well as the telepathic message from Majolica some minutes before. He wanted to help them, but for now he should work his butt off in the Duchy to pay the credit. Although the Duke might agree on him in evacuating the residents near the canyon, he would not put his money into it. As the meeting was finished, he was about to move again towards the walls for his guard duties when the Duke came up to him and directed him to guard the room where Alphabet was being treated, not to let others in, especially the man from before, except the other people who were in the meeting. Knowing that it was a secret errand, he then moved after issuing a nod towards the Duke, moving in a fast march towards the room, where he noticed Seigi also moving towards that place. Knowing that he might get information from that meeting, he then assumed the place of an inner guard, peeking through a hole to confirm who was about to go in.

@Roland Rutledge @Seigi @Alphabet Chocolate