Unprepared for the upgraded turrets' strike, AnoYi reacted quickly. In a whirl of crimson cloak, the Coyote Swordsman moved erratically to avoid the incoming fire before leaping forward and activating his Unicorn Jump Ability and bounding along the corridor to strike at one of the upgraded turrets before it could fire another volley.
He hoped that between his own attack and those of Alaerin, von Mackenstein and his droids each attacking different targets the turrets wouldn't last long enough to get a second volley. In as much as he'd trained against living opponents, the traps and automatons fielded by the Tomb thus far had been far more than he'd counted on. Not that it would deter him from finishing out the mission... In fact, it reminded him that there was far more he had to learn about surviving this world than he'd already learned.

ACTIONS:

1) Dodge the incoming Bolt.

2) & 3) Unicorn Jump to reach and attack one of the upgraded turrets.

• *Unicorn Jump*
Fighting Style E + Fast F + Jump F + Accurate F + Penetrate F
Leveraging speed & power, the Unicorn Jump allows the user to spring over and behind an opponent to deliver a surprise strike from the rear.
Actions: 2, Cooldown: 1
Grade: E

The line constructs opened fire with a superior showing of force against the bolts which came flying at them, the explosive ammunition was stronger then the bolts exploding and dispersing their energy throughout the space in bright flashes of lights.

Tombkeeper Gutou

Tombkeeper Gutou sat down and folded his arms during this, letting out a raspy chuckle. “My this is quite a show!” He’d clap his skeletal hands together and watch the ‘firework’ like event taking place in the trial hall.
===

The bright lights flashing making it more difficult for AnoYi to see properly. Thankfully AnoYi was able to just get out of the way, he did however briefly feel the searing magical heat of the one of the bolts just pass him.

Despite the barriers AnoYi was able to jump up and use his sword to penetrate the shield and gemstone, knocking it out of the turret, disabling the one in the middle, as the magical energy on the turret fizzled out and it retracted back into the ceiling. After his leap he’d then land on the 3rd pillar in the hallway.

But He’d find that a curved projectile trailing green F grade magic bolt came flying his way that he’d need to deal with from one of the remaining turrets, having less space to dodge atop the pillar with a dark pit all around him, he’d need to act carefully.

(AnoYi Targeted with X1 F Grade Green Magic Bolt)
—
While all the action had been going down
Alaerin was quick to act and try to make some distance along the course so that he could grab the metal orb that they needed to clear the trial. He was able to step on a few pillars with his movement action, blocking an E grade magic bolt that came flying his way in another volley in part due to his energy ward which cracked after being struck, looking like it lost a moderate amount of HP but he had been able to rip some remaining turret debris off the side of the walls to help pad out his defenses, even if the bright light from the bolt colliding was a bit overwhelming for his eyesight.

Another series this time of X6 F grade magic bolts came flying at Von Mackstein and the line fusiliers again this time they were a reddish hue rather than the amber color before, three each from the two remaining sentries on the ceiling.

(Von Mackstein and Line units X6 F grade magic bolts from remaining two turrets)

As soon as the trial orb was moved from its pedestal and landed into Alaerin’s arm like a football there was a rumbling in the whole trial hall, and like clockwork the walls on each side of the trial hallway area area began to move toward one another, a classic crushing wall trap had been triggered with the orb being removed.

(AnoYI, Alaerin In range of Wall trap closing in)

(Round Summary:)
Von Mackstein and line units counter fire turrets successfully stopping their first volley of projectiles

AnoYi successfully leaps up, disables middle turret by knocking the gem stone out of it with his sword, lands on a pillar toward the middle of the hallway, gets targetted with a F grade green magic bolt from a remaining pillar

Alaerin uses parts of debris and his ward to help stave off a E grade magic bolt, and moves across the pillars, and grabs the trial orb with his telekinetic ability.

Wall trap triggered, both Alaerin and AnoYi in range of wall trap closing trajectory.

Von Mackstein and units facing another volley this time of X6 F grade magic bolt projectiles)

(Narrator note: Experience with Telekinesis F will vary from narrator to Narrator I’m doing a bit of a rule of cool here, letting you grab both debris and the orb with one action and at the grade it’s at, how much you get out of a basic movement action will vary too, I decided to rule that you can make big steps to clear the pillars rather than having to leap with individual actions to clear, simplifies this sequence some)

Titles: [Construct], [Order-Keeper] - #bc8dbf

"Hah! As expected, we have the superior firepower in here!" Von Mackstein was already claiming the victory, the counter-fusillade being successful with dealing with the puny turret fire. Its companions fared just as good against the attempt to fire at them, earning a commendation from the commanding unit. "Well done, Herr Storm and Herr AnoYi. I will be sure to put in a good word for both of you in the Hauptsitz during my report."

However, celebration was short-lived as the turrets once more opened fire against the group. Von Mackstein orders to the machines under it were the same as previously, pointing at the red projectiles and the turrets themselves and beeping in high-speed. [Von Mackstein - Action 1]

The Line Fusiliers repeated the process, only readjusting their aims at the new projectiles and uttering the synchronous and lifeless. "DOWN.", before triggers were pressed in sequence and a rain of projectiles were shot towards their foes. [Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 actions 1-2-3]

The main machine would then do the same: aim its own carbine towards the incoming projectile and fire at it with impunity. [Von Mackstein - Action 2/3]

Von Mackstein:
1 - Order the Line Fusiliers to counter-fire
2 - Aim at the projectile
3 - Basic Attack vs the incoming projectile - Precision B (5) + Carbine C (4) = 9 Base Effectiveness

Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 actions (Counter-fire):
1 - Aim at the incoming projectiles
2 - Explosive Cartridge - Fighting Style E + Range E (30ft) + Area E (15ft radius) - Precision B (5) + Carbine C (4) = Precision B (5) + Carbine C (4) + Ability E (2) = 11 Base Effectiveness each x 5
3 - Explosive Cartridge - Fighting Style F + Range F (10ft) + Area F (5ft radius) - +1 combo
Total 12 Base Effectiveness

Cooldown D 1/2

AnoYi

He wasn't sure what the change in color meant for the bolt launched at him. Magic wasn't something he was familiar with in this world, any more do than any other denizen was he supposed. He just knew that it meant something different than the last golden sizzling beam he narrowly avoided.
He left the analysis to those with the knowledge for it. AnoYi was a man (creature?) of Action... Instead of maneuvering out if the way of the bolt, he met it with the steel of his cutlass as he tried to deflect the bolt.
"We better check the time, Sparky..." he addressed Alaerin, turning towards the way back to the others. "Looks like it's Closing Time!" The pillars shook and groaned as they slid closer and closer. Even though his Unicorn Jump was still on Cooldown, AnoYi was still quite quick on his feet (paws?), and made a dash towards safety even as he kept an eye on Alaerin.

Actions:
1) Parry
Fighting Style E (flex to F) + Deflect F (flex) + Accurate F
AnoYi intercepts a blow with his Cutlass, turning it away from him.

Grade: F, Cooldown: 0

2) Mad Dash
Fast F + Jump F
Run & leap to the trap's exit.

Alearin tucks the Orb into his shoulderbag with the original orb collected from the Desert Octopus Pit to free both his hands when he notes to sliding crushing walls begin to move.

He grimaces and reverses direction dashing back across the room to go for the last orb... but he does gesture with a wave of his hand using his Psychokinetic Force Mastery and a selection of four heavy steel shuriken fly from his coat to fly to the seam in the floor between the sliding wall and the stone floor to wedge the 'this time' not spinning metal weapons to angle in and wedge into the seam to force/slow the walls progress as the two stone surfaces much deform the hardened metal blades into paper thin sheet metal to progress "Hopefully" ~ even if one or two snap from the weight/stress the effect to be slowing the wall progress.

Definitely going to need more shuriken and or other metal impliment/tools for any future adventures...

Growling in his efforts replying to AnoYi, "...I'm on it furry...keep your pelt on."

Again Alaerin moves through the obstacle course to get close to the last orb... then lash out with his Psychokinetic Force Mastery and snatch the orb into his grasp...!

Actions:
1. Use [Psychokinetic Force Mastery] - [Telekinesis] F, Gear[Shuriken] F
- To wedge heavy Steel shuriken into wall seam and floor to slow crushing wall progress
2. Moving through obstacle course... running as fast as safely possible with his Speed F and Precision F
3. Use [Psychokinetic Force Mastery] - [Telekinesis] F, Gear[Shuriken] F
- Use to snatch the last orb into his grasp

OOC: Sorry about that last use I did attempt too much in one action with Telekinesis. I'll be more mindful to slow my roll in future posts. My Bad!

Von Mackstein and his units opened fire again, it seemed that the turret defenses of the tomb were not quite up to par of expecting an assault squadron of more modern weaponry to counter their fire, it was clear it would have been much more difficult to deal with had there been lesser combatants taking on the ‘trial’.

Thankfully Von Mackstein’s units still had the superior fire power as they once again fired in sequence. The explosive rounds and regular basic attack collectively cutting through the bolts heading their way, causing more dust clouds to get kicked up when the attacks struck the ceilings, knocking the other turret gem down into the abyss below.

There was currently only one remaining which AnoYi swiftly used his sword arts to deflect the magic bolt that had been heading for him right back at the turret., it’s magical shield sputtering out, he managed to jump and move quickly along the pillars, landing back near the end of the trap.

Alaerin dashed across the pillars, and managed to stick shurikens into the wall in in order to buy some time with the walls which were moving in, He had grabbed the metallic orb and then made his way back across the pillars as the walls continued to attempt to close in, a few more, this time amber magic bolts came flying his way from the pillar but thankfully they just missed, even as he felt the searing magical energy fly past him on his way back.

With an athletic enough showing, eventually he’d find his way back to the other side as the walls pushed inward and smashed the remaining turret on the ceiling, the whole trial hallway chamber now closed off with the two walls pressed against one another.

A scene of sorts was revealed to the group where the wall pieces met, more faintly orange hued hieroglyphics of sorts, showing beast people lined up with bows aiming them at targets. As well as what looked like beast people running, some assuming racing positions, others using what looked like training swords in a ring.

Tombkeeper Gutou

Gutou clapped his hands “Yes! Now this is a trial! The action! Overcoming dangerous adversity! Well then whose going to put that orb in the slot! It won’t be me I can tell you all that much!”

He’d cross his arms, and tap a boney foot.

The slots in the door were awaiting the metal spheres.

(Narrator Note: Generally need energized F to use an F grade ability twice in one posting round, but I determined that Alaerin could still feasibly do what he wanted to do even without the use of two F grade abilities same round even if flavored that way, also moving things along on my end seemed logical to maintain plot progression.)

Alaerin paused, and perhaps annoyingly pulled out his journal... and began to sketch the scene of the door and orb locks. Then he moved closer and began to sketch the orange hued hieroglyphics of the bow firing line and beast people running and the depicted fighting circle.

He made sure to make his sketches as accurate as possible... but finally he paused noting the silence around him, "...Oh! Sorry... your waiting in me to open the door ... ah aheh. Ok sorry... got distracted."

He sighed putting his journal away, "... well I think the hieroglyphs might be a sort of warning ~ perhaps. Doesn't hurt to assume it is a warning of possible hostiles beyond the door. So all of you take cover behind some of the pillars or just drop prone. Von Mackstein, would you line up your fullisaders into two flanking firing positions of the door... not directly in front... one standing one kneeling ready to return fire? I'll manifest my Lightning Ward and open the door. I'll draw fire from the center... be ready for... well whatever... pickoff any snipers or charging threats. Here goes."

Alaerin crosses his arms and clangs the metal bracers together manifesting his Lightning Ward an arcing nimbus of lightning surrounding him and rippling across the metal partial armor pieces.

Then gesturing he invoked his Psychokinetic Force Mastery and seized a hold of all three orbs in his shoulder bag and they flew spiraling forth to simultaneously all set in the three 'key' slots for the door...!

Actions -
1. Lightning Ward - [Lightning Blight] F, Barrier F
- Manifested by contact with metal armor
2. Psychokinetic Force Mastery - [Telekinesis] F, Gear[Shuriken] F
- place all three orbs in key slots simultaneously

Titles: [Construct], [Order-Keeper] - #bc8dbf

Another successful assault to the series of fusillades so far made Von Mackstein let out a mechanical, hearty laughter, boisterous even. Everything had gone according to expectations thus far. "Imagine if I weren't being accompanied by the light troops."The machine let out an amused snort.

"More traps to be had? Our group composition has shown to be fully prepared to deal with whatever it is thrown at it." The construct's gloved hand moved, in an airy, dismissal waive. But then, its optical lenses focused on the path ahead. More important, arms crossing as Alaerin laid out his plan, the classic room clearing tactic used in urban environments. "A solid plan, Herr Storm. Directly out of the text-book."

The commanding unit would beep as usual, delivering the new orders in analog. [Von Mackstein - Action 1]

And the Line Fusiliers would answer in turn, position themselves at the sides of the door: one unit crouching in front of another that was standing, in pairs, leaving an obstructing line of fire for both. The unit that had received some damaged from the earlier flood would instead lie down against the floor, in a bit of an angle. [Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 Actions 1/2/3]

Finally, Von Mackstein would also move forward, standing at one of the sides of the door. However, it didn't hold its rifle, but rather slanged it over its shoulder. Instead, it was armed with the pristine cavalry saber, which gleamed against the torchlight of the tomb. "Let's make them tremble!"

Von Mackstein:
1 - Order the Line Fusiliers to position at the sides of the door.
2 - Move into position.

Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 actions:
1 - Move into position.

Cooldown D 2/2 E 1/1

AnoYi picked himself up from the floor and dusted himself off as the trap behind himself and Alaerin closed with the grinding thud of finality. He had to admit that the automatons and their rifles had come in extremely handy, as had Alaerin's magic; together all they made a formidable force. Hopefully, formidable enough to face the final challenges ahead.
While Alaerin made his sketches and von Mackenstein tended to his 'men', AnoYi sheathed his Cutlass and studied the room until the time came to unlock the snake-glyphed door. He eyed Gutou as they all arrayed themselves to face whatever lay behind the serpent door. "Say, Gutou, you've definitely enjoyed watching us strive against the traps and monsters in this tomb... One might think you're something more than just its 'keeper', hm?"
He did not give the four armed undead time to react before taking his place beside one of the doors as Alaerin placed the keys. It was his intent to run back-up for Alaerin and intercept anything that got past the lightning mage and threatened the automatons. He made ready to move at a moments notice as he pressed his back against the wall next to the huge serpent door. With everything off Cooldown, he prepared for the next step...

Alaerin was able to sketch more scenes on the walls, meanwhile Gutou continued to tap their foot, the tapping echoing throughout the trial door chamber. He also was able to copy down a good amount of the orange hued hieroglyphics.

Tombkeeper Gutou

Gutou looked Over to AnoYi after he spoke to him. “More then just a keeper? Maybe your mind is more capable then I originally imagined! I think you’ll learn quickly if i’m more then just a keeper..”

Von Mackstein’s mechanized military units followed their order and assumed flanking positons without being interrupted, thankfully the chamber room in front of the door seemed to remain relatively peaceful.

Then Alaerin moved into action, he crossed his arms as his metal bracers made contact, he created his lightning ward before he simultaneously moved the three orbs from the shoulder bag and they connected into the door slots on the ornate statues.

Suddenly a rumbling began as the doors lit up with a greater energy, and began to open up, with the sound of stone grinding on stone, as the bright blinding light temporarily enveloped the area from where the doors parted revealing what looked like a very sizable circular sandstone floored arena with some sort of mosaic on it depicting similar beastial people who looked like they were competing in different events of skills, archers lined up shooting at targets, hunting game animals with bows, as well as racing among other things. The ceiling had one very sizable green crystal which illuminated the arena in an eerie greenish glow.

More curiously however After the blinding light had gone away, Gutou was no where to be seen. Around the perimeter of the arena like space high up suddenly multiple tons of bones came out of rectangular slots in the walls which opened up near the stone stadium seating and the bones rapidly began to form into what looked like hundreds of skeletons with greenish glowing eyes, who began to cheer making loud raspy sounds, and clap, the sound of bones rattling and bone striking bone rapidly filling the arena.

A strange greenish spotlight appeared on Gutou as he was now revealed to be a top a very tall stone pillar that was on the far end of the arena, sitting atop some kind of stone looking throne, with what looked like some kind of strange ancient alter in front of it where it was difficult to make out what was going on other than the sight of incense burning and strange floral smells filling the area.

“YOU HAVE PROVEN YOURSELF WORTHY TO TAKE ON MY CHAMPION!” Gutou called out enthusiastically as suddenly a [Large] ethereal looking headless armored figure soon materialized afterward, they were carrying what looked like a very large axe, had a mouth with sharp teeth on their chest that mashed about, as well as a very sizable shield at the other end of the Arena from the group, parallel.

Arena Champion


The arena champion readied it’s axe and shield, while it’s chest let out almost what sounded like a distorted lion’s roar.

X4 Skeleton Soldiers


Nearby the arena champion four tall green ethereal energy aura skeletons appeared by rising up from the ground, wearing what looked like old ornate West empire armor, as well as each one carrying sizable polearms, two on each side of the champion facing the party, they looked ready to fight.

“Since I am gracious, I will allow you the first move! When you are ready, Let the final trial begin!” More loud applause filled the arena there after.

Titles: [Construct], [Order-Keeper] - #bc8dbf

With the revelation that Gutou was actually the rebel behind this attempt against the order within the Empire, acrid smoke began fuming out of Von Mackstein's mask. "I knew there was something wrong about you, you anarchist! I should have wrung that bony neck of yours!" The machine said, pointing one gloved finger towards the new revealed 'emperor' and his cronies. "%Fire at all of them!%" Von Mackstein beeped. [Von Mackstein - Action 1]

After the order was given, the five Line Fusiliers began aiming down at Gutou and the skeleton soldiers, each having one of them as their quarry [Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 - Action 1]. "DOWN." The machines uttered in unison once more, each squeezing the trigger of their carbines, explosive rounds being shot at them. [Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 - Action 2] The explosive rounds were followed by a new volley, this time regular ammunition being shot at their targets. [Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 - Action 3]

And, while the fusillade took place, Von Mackstein charged towards Gutou himself, cavalry saber held high above its head. "TO VICTORY! CHARGEEEE!" It rushed through the arena, as bullets zipped close to it. And, when reaching the gigantic shield and axe wielding creature, the war relic brought its saber down at it with impunity. [Von Mackstein - Action 2/3]

Von Mackstein:
1 - Order the Line Fusiliers to fire at Gutou and the 4 Skeleton Soldiers.
2 - Charge 20ft towards Gutou
3 - Basic Attack with the cavalry saber - Strength D (3) + Cavalry Saber E (2) = 5 Base Effectiveness

Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 actions:
1 - Aim at Gutou and the Skeleton Soldiers
2 - Explosive Cartridge - Fighting Style D + Range E (30ft) + Area E (15ft radius) - Precision B (5) + Carbine C (4) = Precision B (5) + Carbine C (4) + Ability D (3) = 12 Base Effectiveness each
3 - Basic attack - +1, total 13 Base Effectiveness against each enemy

Cooldown D 0/2

Alaerin makes no comment... save a expected tired expression, as he draws his Greatsword and charges into battle following Von Mackstein.

His Lightning Ward Springs to life arcing off his griped greatsword & partial metal plate armor ~ surrounding him in an arcing nimbus of warding lightning. He moves in on the Headless Axe & Shield wielding giant... moving around the giant to attack from the rear flank to 'hopefully' split its attention between him and Von Mackstein, intentionally if possible placing himself closer to Gutou within 30'ft.

He swings his greatsword invoking his Thunder Blade on the strike... but continuing with the stroke he spins to briefly face Gutou and unleashes his last lightning ability ~ his Lightning Aegis hurling a thunderous Lightning Bolt and a war Cry at the skeleton!

"AAARrrrrGGGHHHH!!!!"

~ ooc: Alaerin is really kinda like Lightning Warrior Raidy, just less sex thus far! 'Snort'

Actions -
1. [Lightning Ward] - [Fighting Style-'Greatsword'] F, [Lightning Blight] F, Barrier F

2. Strike with Empowered Greatsword ['Thunder' Blade] - [Fighting Style-Swords] E, Blight Lightning F, F - 0 cooldown

3. Hurl lightning at Gutou with [Lightning 'Aegis'] - [Fighting style swords] E, Range E, Blight Lightning F

AnoYi suddenly regretted not letting Gutou get swept away by the torrential flood trap earlier. Such feelings would have to wait until later, however, given current circumstances... Gutou's Champion and its minions begged immediate attention. The Coyote surveyed the opponents as Alaerin and von Mackenstein surged into action. The automaton riflemen should be able to handle the Champion's minions in short order, he hoped, so he joined in with his compatriots in attacking the monstrous Temple Champion.
The Coyote Swordsman wasn't made of metal parts nor had a magic lightning shield so he had to be fast, nimble and precise to avoid getting smashed by the ghostly emerald Champion! Moving up rapidly, he helped Alaerin flank the monstrous Champion but observed the great beast before moving to strike along an unguarded flank. He used the bulk of the Champion's shield to help him hide from it's view. Having a head in the middle of its torso didn't exactly give it a wide, nor high, field if view...

Actions:

1) Move Up & Observe
Fast F + Appraise F
Grade: F Cooldown: 0

2) Attack [Six Fingered Sword Style]
• *Six Fingered Sword Style*
Fighting Style E + Penetrating F + Drain [Speed] F
An effective, yet sometimes cruel, school of swordplay. This Combat Style emphasizes debilitating strikes over the efficiency of a quick kill.
Actions: 1, Cooldown: 1
Grade: E

3) Evade Attack
Speed D + Fast F + Jump F

When the fighting erupted the cheering from the skeletons in the sidelines intensified.

Constructs moved into position and opened fire on the targets which they were ordered too with explosive shots.

All four shots rang true striking the skeleton warriors whom all got knocked over on their backs. The explosive shots briefly lighting up the arena more as the sounds echoed.

The skeletons quickly tried to right themselves up, holes in their forms where they had been shot, but it looked like they wouldn’t be doing any proper attacking, their structures not cut out for explosive rounds, second more mundane shots hitting them, creating some more precise holes.

It was at the same time that Gutou looked alarmed,

“No Wait! I’m not, you’re not supposed to attack ME!” He yelled out raising up a small shield of random bits of bone and greenish energy which helped eat up the fifth shot from the explosive cartridge which had come his way but it still stumbled him backward with how quick it came, in that instance he was stumbled it looked like the skeleton soldiers and champions flickered in and out before stabilizing, the audience also flickering.

“What are you all doing?! You pitiful useless things!” Gutou pointed accusingly at the four skeletons who were..performing in a..lackluster way to say the least so far. While Gutou was distracted the mundane shot landed true, hitting him in the rib cage, bone breaking.

“They don’t make ancient skeletons everyday you know!” Gutou exclaimed indignantly, gesturing with one arm to the damage he sustained.

AnoYi and Von Mackstein at that point worked together in tandem, AnoYi hiding behind the champion’s shield in his advance, just as the champion was about to swing their large axe at Von Mackstein aggressively in retaliation of his charge, AnoYi got a quick stab right in from behind the shield around causing the Champion’s chest to let out an angered pained roar, as it spun to look at AnoYi, and try to swing at him, if albeit clumsily, which then allowed von Mackstein to stab the champion with his sword.

Then Alaerin moved around during the chaos and stabbed the chamion with his great sword, the impact clear immediately, electrical energy surging over the giant’s armor the champion was enraged banging it’s shield, while it lit up.

The champion briefly turned red and let out another loud lion like roar afterward, before it swung it’s axe where AnoYi was standing but he had already leapt out of the way, the axe cracking the floor of the arena as it smashed into it with a great force, which caused a greenish rumbling wave to radiate in a radial AOE where the axe struck the ground, heading toward AnoYi and Von Mackstein, as well as Alaerin.

(AnoYi, Von Mackstein, ALaerin in range of oncoming Grade E magical energy ground hazard)

Each stab wound in the champion left it with holes in it’s body that revealed brighter bits of green energy from within it.

The champion then pivoted and took a proper swing at Alaerin, but his electrical ward ate up a lot of the attack crackling on the verge of breaking as the axe struck, further electrocuting the champion, the champion now looked like it was starting to sway at the legs a bit like it was losing some stability…

Before suddenly a loud lightning bolt rang out which traveled across the arena and went careening toward Gutou.

“Wait! You didn’t tell me you could do that! Nobody told me he could do that!!!!” Gutou yelled out alarmed ‘eyesockets’ wide as he lit up in a bluish white light before there was a loud boom, and electrical energy shot out from Gutou’s body and the altar he was on hitting the large crystal above in the arena, as a blinding green light filled it up, green electrical energy surging out and striking random skeletons in the audience as well as two of the ones in the arena who had been trying to recover, until suddenly they were reduced to ash after.

The crystal was left looking super charged, the bright light finally mellowing some. Gutou looked blackened and was leaning back slumped over. The champion and everything violently flickering again, their ethereal green energy looking lessened and weakened.

(Combat round summary:
Von Mackstein and unit attacks land true on targets (Gutou, and skeletons, as well as stab on champion.

Alaerin attacks hit, round barrier had 1 hp left after champion struck it, he stabs the champion, electrocutes it, before electrocuting Gutou and Gutou’s altar which causes the large green crystal to light up and be energized vaporizing two skeletons in the arena, as well as random skeletons in the audience.

AnoYi: Stabs champion successfully, avoids champion strike,

Von Mackstein, Alaerin, AnoYi: All at risk of being hit by an E grade traveling magical energy hazard on ground unless dealt with.

Enemy statuses:

Skeletons #1 and #2: Vaporized

Skeletons #3 and #4: severely injured

Champion: Badly Injured

Gutou: Severely injured (If not knocked out or ‘dead’ further analysis needed)

(narrator note: Make sure all skills used in ability support grade of ability stated)

Alaerin witnessed the results of the parties coordinated attacks with satisfaction.... their opponents badly injured! But the expanding rumbling radial wave of green energy rolling away from the Arena Champions Axe impact, there seemed no escape or cover available to take no way to avoid it.... and already the fatigue of so much lightning use was weighing on him!

There were two ... potential ways to survive the oncoming wave of damaging magic...

Instead of 'leaping into the air rolling with the impact' hopefully avoiding some of it by timing the leap to be in the air allowing the ground effect attack to roll past and under him... Alaerin chose to try to protect his comrades instead..

He quickly moved to step in front of AnoYi and Von Mackstein, switching his Greatsword to a reversed grip and Stabbed it into the flagstones to anchor it and try to counter the power of the onrushing wave with his Thunder Blade and the remains of his Lightning Ward to take the brunt of the attack ... maybe the partial plate armor he was wearing would save him and provide some cover for his companions to finish the fight... if he should fall?

"Get Behind Me!!!"

Actions -
1. Block/Counterstrike Against AoE Radial Green Wave w/Empowered Greatsword ['Thunder' Blade] - [Fighting Style-Swords] E, Blight Lightning F, F - 0 cooldown

2. [Lightning Ward] - [Fighting Style-'Greatsword'] F, [Lightning Blight] F, Barrier F

~ OOC: Regardless of the results of this, I think Alaerin has exhausted his ligthning 'Mojo' for a bit and will be not using its for several exhanges until he's had a chance to catch his breath.

By his training, AnoYi had learned the best way to avoid harm was to not be where your opponent could reach you. For Swashbucklers mobility was the key to both offense and defense. Unfortunately, that philosophy had its limitations. Avoiding area attacks was one of those weaknesses.
Alaerin was offering to take the brunt of the Champions magical attack and the Coyote was on no position to decline the safe harbor. AnoYi ran, leapt and slid into the lee behind the now armored mage. "I think either Gutou or his Throne are powering this arena." he said, out of breath. "Take them out and I think we win..."

Titles: [Construct], [Order-Keeper] - #bc8dbf

"Strike true and strike with precision! Don't let the skeleton's lies fool you!" The machine uttered in the midst of pitched battle, waving its cavalry saber around. "The rebel is trying to waylay us with some thing! seek cover!

Von Mackstein would immediately move Alaerin, before bracing for impact, assuming a blocking stance. [Von Mackstein - Action 1/2] And, while doing so, its orders came once more. "%Keep firing until none of them stand!%" The others for the Line Fusiliers were clear. [Von Mackstein - Action 3]

And the machines did so, shifting their aims to the remaining foes. "DOWN." The barrels of their carbines would be set alight once more, their fusillade now, compromised of regular ammo, repeated twice. [Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 - Action 1/2/3]

Von Mackstein:
1 - Rush behind Alaerin
2 - Block - Vitality D + Heavy Armor E = 5 Base Effectiveness
3 - Order the Line Fusiliers to fire at Gutou, the 2 Skeleton Soldiers and the Champion

Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 actions:
1 - Aim at Gutou (2), the 2 Skeleton Soldiers (2) and the Champion (1)
2 - Just Regular Ammo - Fighting Style E + Range E (30ft) - Precision B (5) + Carbine C (4) + Ability E (2) = 11 Base Effectiveness each
3 - Basic attack - +1, total 12 Base Effectiveness against each enemy

Cooldown D 1/2 E 0/1

Alaerin was quick to jump into a defensive position at the oncoming malicious wave of green energy which sprayed out from the Champion in the ring. His ward would soak up some cracking again looking moderately damaged as his electrical energy lit up the area, Von Mackstein joined with a united front their armor taking some searing damage as well but it held up, helping to absorb some of the blow.

AnoYi shared some helpful insight while his allies defended, that the altar throne or Gutou himself might be key to ending the battle early, thankfully for him shielded by his allies.

It wasn’t long before Von Mackstein’s order to fire rang out in the arena rounds striking the poor skeletons who couldn’t do much more other then fall over again and splatter into a green miasma, one even trying to take a swing at the shot which echoed throughout the arena, whatever semblance of armor they had, ruined by the already earlier used explosive shots laughably inadequate for the more modern technology which Von Mackstein’s units were using.

The champion let out another roar at being shot, raising the axe over it’s head, energy began to gather rapidly as it looked like it was going to try go in for another devastating swing on the whole party, but before it could commit, the regular shot which had been targeting Gutou, landed true, striking the blackened skeleton in the Jaw, Gutou raised his hands up all at once..before suddenly the skeleton collapsed to the ground, the light in the arena faded all at once.

Just as soon as the skeleton crowd had been there, all of the bones began to retract rapidly from whence they came from. The only glow left in the arena itself the large overcharged crystal over head, and finally the dust began to settle in the sand stone area..

And then a rumbling sound could be heard, At the far wall of the arena a stone slab slid away from the wall, revealing a modest sized square sandstone room with a radiant glow, was revealed. Inside the room there were ornate swords, early ornate west empire and kingdom inspired bows, as well as some artifacts which were sitting atop pillars, There was a strange metal cube with writing on it, as well as what looked like might have been a container for a scroll.

This time pillar hieroglyphics on each corner of the room depicted various celebrations, and times of wealth, prosperity and culture, beast people creating art, dining at tables, crafting valuable tools.

Off from the center however was the artifact which the group had gone through all of the effort to getting for the Faazi Merchant Guild, it was the jade flute, which seemed to match the sketch which they had recieved of it for refernce. It was a medium sized instrument gleaming, with a faint ethereal green miasama not unlike the one which Gutou and those who he summoned had given off. But it was carved intricately and beautifully into a dragon head shape, with yellowy gemstone inlays for the eyes, with gold ornamentation.

There were also a few more ornate serpent statues and a couple of lion statues which flanked either side of the room, but they did not have spaces for more metal orbs, they were carved from stone and precioius metals, with some gemstone eye inlays as well.

AnoYi would notice some faint runic writing with a bit of a orangey glow against the back wall of the room which was in a Beastial that he could sort of understand, it read roughly in a modern beastial equivalent

“<By royal edict Those who have vanquished my trial even after my life hath past, May take from this room, what they have earned.>”
There appeared to be an ornate signature nearby the wording as if it were validating the statement with royal approval but it was more difficult to read.

Alaerin picked himself up, dusting off his knees and briefly surveying the remains of the battle.

Smiling he gives Von Mackstein a thumbs up gesture ~ "Good shootin'!"

Sheathing his greatsword over his back he strode toward the revealed Sandstone treasure vault but regarded the still large overcharged crystal over head. But his goal was the sought after Jade Dragon-head Flute with the Topaz-like Gemstone eyes inlayed with gold. He moved to the artifact and picked it up from the pedestal hefting it in his hand for studying the details.

Then something occurred to him... a musical instrument needed music. He walked over to the scroll tube to see if it contained some sheet music...

Titles: [Construct], [Order-Keeper] - #bc8dbf

Sheathing the cavalry saber into its scabbard once more, Von Mackstein would puff-out its chest, clearly overjoyed with the result of the combat. "Danke, Herr Storm. They are the finest shooters in the Kaiserreich after all." The reflective lenses of the glasses looked at the adventurer for a moment. "And both of you played your parts very effectively. A good trait."

With that, it began walking towards flute, ignoring all the other ostentatious relics and objects present in the room. The Line Fusiliers did the same, all indifferent to the opulent relics and armaments. "So, this is the flute that civilian complained about being stolen. Looking at its craftsmanship, it can only be deducted that it was hoped to be fenced and generate funds to fuel the rebel operations." A flawless conclusion, yet very wrong. "Let's return this to its proper owner."

Line Fusiliers #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 actions:
Cooldown D 2/2 E 1/1