{ROUND}

[@rush99999]
While everyone else's rings were activating, the Storyteller's ring did not. It wasn't until Tiberius, Ivan, and Kaite began their violent clash with the Warlock when the ring began to grow hot on the Storyteller's finger. It trembled with magic power and spilled blinding light from all sides. The mana of frustration poured out into his fingers and exploded, sending a blazing fireball hurtling toward the Warlock.

More mana poured into his fingertips. Erudessa's message was clear.

[@Lord Zee]
[@Darkmoon Angel]
[@Hawlin]
"Not one of us here would ever bend their knees for you, demon," Tiberius began. "Loyalty is earned, not asked for. Now, how about we have a fair fight? Eru, please help me in this fight!" At that moment, strength poured from the ring into every fiber of his being. His mind felt sharper and clearer, like he could dodge arrows without breaking a sweat. His arms twitched with newfound power such as rivaled orcs. Now more than ever, he was ready to face the Warlock.

And he was not alone, for Ivan and Kaite joined the duel, themselves empowered by the rings. The Warlock was a mighty foe, but with the might of a high elf at his back and the strength of friends at his side, they would challenge their enemy yet.

[@Rekaigan]
As the Warlock closed in on Zenovia, three figures suddenly shot in and clashed with him. Even in the darkness, the three seemed to radiate with courage, utterly unafraid of the monster that had paralyzed her. In a few moments, she recognized them as Tiberius, Ivan, and Kaite. One of them uttered Zenovia's name - Ivan was fighting for [i]her[/i].

A voice penetrated her mind.

"Why do you tarry, Zenovia? The day may come when your feet shall tread the earth unaccompanied by others, but it is not this day. This day, you have friends at your side. Rise, and take heart, for victory is near at hand, and you have only to reach out and grab it."

Her tone took a humorous note. "After all, I'd be remiss if we let a couple of swashbucklers have all the fun. Go get 'em, girl."

[@ineffable]
[@Cuccoruler]
Laina and Vert took hold of the sword and pulled with all their might. Sweat poured from their palms and loosened their grip on the sword, but they did not falter. It seemed to be held down by magic, for any other weapon would have torn out of the ground in the blink of an eye. Yet, there was no magic in the world that could have held the sword against these two women. Inch by inch, the blade came out of the earth.

Suddenly, the point drew free, and a moment of utter darkness filled their vision. The magic energy settled and dispersed, and they could see the forest again.

They had broken the curse!