Nori And Her Stuff

[NoriWasHere]

Cracker Island - Cracker Town - Cracker Town Vendor Stalls - Cracking Skullz

Aryin felt the giant’s arrival well before he stood in front of her, the shake of the ground did nothing but bring a smile to her face. George Nelson, the brute of the 8th Street coven, and one of Emily fucking Reed's favorite pets. Aryin remembered he liked to fight, and he was freakishly strong, but he was not strong enough to truly hurt her. At least, he was not strong enough to kill her with a single punch. And this made her smile grow in size. She glanced over to Jordan who had his eyes fixated on the coming giant already, and a wave of anger was carried with his gaze. There was bad blood between 8th Street and anyone who wasn’t 8th Street, and Jordan was no stranger to their ire.

".... Well, well, well!"

Aryin slowly turned their gaze to size up the massive man. He was much bigger than she remembered. Taller, and stronger, but he was still the same old George.

"Look what we got here! A nosy-bitch!"

Still, the bully, the overconfident asshole, the person who needs his ass kicked. ”Impressive vocabulary as always,” Aryin sneered. She turned the camera away from the fight and started recording George directly.

"... Yeah, motherfucker! Mind your business! You know what happens to motherfuckers that use phones around here?!"

"This is what happens, give me your phone."

Aryin turned the phone to Carol and then to George as she started to chuckle. The nerve of these two. They were walking up to her like they had any power. She would not be giving them her phone. She would not humor them by playing this nice. If anything the only question that dared cross her mind was how petty did she want to be? Aryin wanted to fight, Emily was getting her ass kicked and she was not allowed to join and this made Aryin upset. She could probably goad the big man into a fight pretty easy but she did not like her chances alone with Carol here. George could hurt her with his punches but she only needed one shot to end him, Carol could turn her into a literal fetus and that was not something she wanted to risk. She would need to somehow draw Jordan into the fight.

” You’re as dumb as I remember, George. Fuck off,” Aryin clicked on the flash button on the screen and turned it on, blasting George and Carol with the bright light. ” Just as ugly as I remember, Jesus. Did you look in the mirror before you left today? ”. Aryin stopped recording and rested a free hand on their hip as they shifted their gaze between the two.

"Also, you stay out of this, you tall bitch! You will be three feet shorter when I break your motherfucking knees, bitch!"

Jordan exhaled as he reached up and pulled his glasses from his face. He placed them down behind him on the ledge of a vendor's stall. He did not want to fight, but he knew that George would either push for the phone, and Aryin would not give it up, or walk away like the coward he was. Jordan knew that he needed to be ready just in case and he did not have his spare glasses with him at the festival. His eye shifted over to Aryin and saw the grin that was spreading, and he shifted his eyes back to George. Aryin was itching for a fight, and he would be ready to back her up if needed as long as she did not start the fight herself. Jordan was not a fan of some of the rules, namely the one about not getting involved in the business of other covens. Especially when groups like the 8th Street and the Nazi’s called this town their home. Jordan felt like they owed it to those who could not fight to fight for them, and he felt like the leadership were cowards for not using their position to help force out those who would threaten their members. Still, he did not want to be the reason the 317 was dragged into some petty gang war, and he did not want Aryin to be a scapegoat for defending herself.

” If you want my phone you’ll have to take it from me,” Aryin said as she winked at George, adjusting her footing into one more suitable for a fight, and smiled wide from ear to ear. "We both know you're too big of a pussy to fight someone who can beat you.”

[NoriWasHere]

It was night time in the City of Ash and it was alive with revelry.

Every table in every bar on every street corner found itself packed with the smelly, sweating, and ravenous patrons one would expect for a night like tonight; for tonight was a night unlike any other. Today marked the anniversary of the horrid Blight War many centuries ago after all. The patrons dug into their food with a rabid intensity as onlookers waited anxiously for their meals to arrive, jealously alive in their eyes, while the rest of the crowd drowned themselves, mug after mug, with the various alcoholic drinks available; mostly mead and Something Else, a local favorite. The floors looked as if they were assaulted by the God of Decay with half-eaten chickens and gods-knows-what littering the floor while bile and unknown liquids poured forth like a torrent of awfulness. This was expected. This scene is one that many a soul has traveled to be seen. While in normal times owner would be appalled to see the state of his bar, the bartender looked on with a smile on hand for today was the day everyone celebrated, and nobody was upset. Unless of course, you knew better.

No one alive today experienced it, but the stories are still remembered, albeit seldom spoken in whole, by the bards, and by the elders. They spin a tale of rotting corpses stumbling through the countryside, whole villages being abducted and transformed into monsters, and the near defeat of the living at the hands of plaque. They know the stories of many a great hero, many that died and fewer yet that lived, that helped curb the tide of the assault on the mortal races. They also know that today was never a day of celebration. Today to them is a day of remembrance. Remembering the errors of the all the races that led to the blight, the errors of commanders who led their soldiers to slaughter, and the greed of the many who prayed on the few still living during it all. Today they remember and look on at the parties with a stern gaze and speak a cautionary tale to those who will listen.

It was such an elder who found himself sitting on a famous corner, deep in the heart of the City of Ash, judging the crowds from a distance. As he sat, he was approached by a young man in search of a tall tale. The man towered over the frail build of the elder, though he approached with a smile and asked if a seat next to the old man was taken, to which the old man responded no.

"I hear you know a story or two about the Blight Wars, old man," the towering individual asked as he sat down.

"Old man," the elder asked, "I'll have you know I am no older than your parents may be, are they so old to you?"

"I meant no disrespect, elder," the towering man said with a chuckle, "I am a student at the great magic school at Itos, and I and my fellow classmates have traveled far to this city to hear the tales of the war. I have been told you know a story or two, and I would like to know where we went wrong in the past."

"Not interested in the parties," quizzed the old man.

"No, especially not if I can learn something to tell my friends back home," the towering man responded.

The old man smiled weakly and pulled his posture straight as he did. "Perhaps there is hope for you youngin's after all," he responded with a wink. "This is a story of heroes, who did not know they were such at the time, who came together and saved all life as we know it. They came from all walks of life, some of noble pursuits and some not, that threw their past grievances behind themselves for a common cause. The war was terrible in all accounts, but I will start my story off at where It all started, right here in the city of Ash, three hundred and seventeen years ago; though the city went by a different name back then. The city of Athenvu, under the steadfast watch of her king, was a prosperous trading town that was turned to ruin, " the old man paused as his head tilted to the left, "that was home to," pausing again, this time standing up, "what is that ruckus?," the old man stopped speaking as he rose to his feet.

The towering individual turned his head, the same direction the elder did seconds before, and listened. "Heyyyyy, I am soo not drunk guys – Where's my food – where are we- what did – for – somebody needs to -I think you've – did you grab my – what is the mean- how oft- wherein th-" The more the towering man listened, the less he heard and the less he understood. He turned his attention the old man, who was visibly shaking now, and asked; "what do you hear old man?"

"Don't you hear it? The screaming," he answered back.

The towering man listened again, and this time he heard it; growing louder every second he did, the sounds of people panicking and shattering objects, blood-curdling screams that filled the nights' air only to be silenced, and he listened as it was getting closer and closer and closer. "Stay behind me elder," the towering man shouted as he stood up and his hands erupted into flames, "I will protect you," he promised. Though promise as he did, the towering man's voice was soon added to the melody of screams, as the chorus of horror began to fill the air and erupt throughout the City of Ash. From miles around people could see the fires that raged that night, and even further could people see the plume of smoke the next day. And to this day, nobody knows of what befell the people that day.

Though this did not go unnoticed; almost immediately after hearing the fate of the City did the Council of the Combined races hold an emergency meeting where it was decided that an Inquisitor unit was to be set out to investigate what happened there.

[NoriWasHere]

ELEANOR BLACK

Nori

"What a drag."

_______________________________________________ Nori Jaye *REDACTED* They/Them/She/Her | 28 | White | 5'5"| 125 lbs) _______________________________________________ Intense. _______________________________________________ Skills & Talents "I know a thing or two about a thing or two." ___________________________________ [+] [Animal Friend] ⫻ Ever since Nori escaped from their abusive family they have always had a friend in her, and others, pets. Whether it is a cat, dog, bird, or something else Nori has always been an animal’s favorite human. [Career Student] ⫻ Nori has been a career student ever since they graduated high school at the age of 16. There has not been a subject that they have fallen in love with, and as such they have accumulated numerous associate degrees and nothing more. Nori is very good at researching and has a wealth of knowledge at their disposal. [Wicked Pot] ⫻ Nori is really good at making a good cup of coffee. [Trust Fund Kid] ⫻ As she was de-facto adopted by her grandparents, and she was the only one to care for them in their waning years, she became the sole beneficiary of their bank, and retirement accounts. While it wasn’t a lot, it is still enough for Nori to continue with their schooling while she supplements it with income from working.

Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I don’t know how many pink shirts I own and at this point I am too afraid to count." Nori is never ignored in a crowd. When she is seen she always comes across as *intense*. To say that they are another faceless body in a sea of people would be a colossal error. Nori is neither short nor tall, standing at a height of 5’5” and carries a small frame on an almost fragile looking body. She has no curves to speak of, despite being on hormones for a decade her genetics never had it in them. The hormones, and the blockers before them, helped shape their waist at least and that is the part of their body that they feel the most confident having exposed. When one looks upon her, they often look away without gaining any useful information about who Nori is, however her eyes betray her rough upbringing. To most it looks like Nori is able to see through them, both physically and emotionally. People often find it very difficult to match her gaze. They are a very dark brown color that is close to black, though in direct sunlight their tones become clearer. The longer one is in Nori’s orbit the more lifelike her gaze becomes. They develop a bit more warmth, and the sharpness dulls. Their hair is never without color. It has been so long that even Nori sometimes forgets what color it is naturally (it is a light brunette color). They go to a local salon every two weeks to reapply the color and get their roots touched up once a month. Nori knows that they are putting their stylists’ kid through college with how much they spend, and they prefer to not dwell on the cost of the services. For the past decade Nori has been in their bubblegum era and their hair is three-toned, pink-blue-purple, and pastel. Nori is also found covered in color. Their fits always follow the same basic pattern. Colorful shirt that matches one of the three colors of their hair, black bottom pieces, and accessories. Nori has taken a fancy to the cyber singlism tattoo style and her body is covered in various pieces within that style, most notably on her chest, stomach, hips and thighs. Nori also loves watercolor tattoos. They a piece in this stye most notably on their right arm, running from just below their elbow to the top of their palm. In terms of body modifications Nori has a few. Most noticeable is their ears. Mirrored across both, Nori sports an industrial, a helix, and two piercings on the lobes themselves.

_{Psychology
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"I can’t let just anyone get close to me, not again. Not after her."

MAIN GOAL ⫻
Nori’s main goal in life is one of self-improvement. For themselves that is simply doing one step better today than they were yesterday. For those in her circle, her goal is to constantly and consistently uplift those around her. Nori has a driven desire to see her friends, her chosen families, succeed and she will do everything in her power to do so.

PHILOSOPHY ⫻
Nori believes that one’s purpose is defined by the person. They do not believe in fate, they do not believe in a guiding force, and she does not believe that we walk a predetermined path. Instead, every action is a choice.

SECRETS ⫻

Nori lives life stealth. No one knows who they were when they were born, and Nori does not share their secrets with most.

SEXUALITY ⫻

Nori is Bisexual.

FEARS ⫻

Nori fears her family. Every last one knew what her parents were doing, where they sent her, and they approved of every last horror that they experienced. As such, Nori is afraid that her family will finally track her down again. As well, they are afraid that her secrets will be outed.

WHO IS ELEANOR BLACK TO YOU? ⫻

Eleanor Black was the first friend that Nori had as themself. Eleanor was the first face she would see in the morning, as the two would be the first souls on campus for those early classes. She was the first friend Nori had who knew her secrets and accepted her for who they were. Eleanor truly was the first person to become apart of Nori’s chosen family and for that she will forever hold a place in her heart.

FLAWS ⫻

Nori is incredibly awkward around strangers. Like incredibly awkward. While she has a desire to meet new people, she still finds it very difficult to completely let down her walls and she often gets in her own way. They will often find themselves in bouts of prolonged eye contact with a piercing stare.

Nori is chronically ill. She has a rare genetic disorder that is currently treated by medication she has to take every three months however it is not 100% and she will often experience flare ups if she experiences physical trauma, whether minor or major. She does carry some rescue medication with her but she rarely needs to administer them.

_{Backstory
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"I don’t think I will ever remember my childhood in full, nor do I think I want to."

There was never a young Nori Jaye. In the beginning, there was only *REDACTED*, born to two people who should have never been together, nor have any kids. Her parents were hyper-religious, and they made every effort to bring their child into their flock. The few memories she has of her childhood revolve around going to, and coming back from, church and religious events.

The other memories she can remember clearly was when she first began to question her existence, and who she truly was. They knew from an early age that things felt wrong. The toys they gave *REDACTED* were not the toys that Nori wanted, the clothes they put *REDACTED* in always made her look like a boy and that made her feel wrong, and every expectation for the future was for one that Nori did not want to live in.

Eventually Nori would turn to God for help. She would stay awake, late into the night, praying for God to make their body and mind whole. When God was silent, she changed her prayer. Asking instead for God to take away the thoughts and feelings she was thinking. When God was silent, she changed her approach and went to her parents to get their help.

They did not help. Nori does not remember what happened afterwards, however she does know her parents would talk about how that camp should have cured them of these wicked desires. They would attempt to fix the issues themselves, and attempted to fix it they did numerous times. The rest of her childhood, and the entirety of her teenage years, was lived with a mission: hide away who they were and get away. She had support in both regards from her mother’s parents. They were the lone bright spot in a sea of hate. They allowed Nori to explore who they were in a safe spot, and had promised that if Nori ever needed it, she had a home far away.

Nori poured every ounce of her strength into her schooling. She excelled in every area of her studies, and she graduated two years early at 16. After her graduation, back at home, her parents finally made their move to get Nori out of their house for good and told her that she had 24 hours to get out and find their own way in the world. Nori knew they could not kick her out, but she knew that this was her chance to leave without any fuss. She contacted her grandmother, who flew out that day and took her to what would become her home for the next four years.

Within a year of moving in with her grandparents Nori would finally get the diagnosis for the illness that plagued her. A rare hereditary disorder that did not have any hereditary link, meaning she developed the mutation all her own.

Nori’s eighteenth year was one of change, and excitement. She had been on blockers for two years already, but she had finally started hormone therapy. As such, Nori was undergoing rapid and obvious changes that made their queerness very visible and that made Nori afraid. It was at a coffee shop, one week after her birthday, that she met Eleanor Black. Eleanor was a fellow student, and they shared an early morning class together at the University. They were always the first ones outside the classroom door, arriving earlier than even the professor. It was here the duo became fast friends. They talked about their rough childhoods, they talked about Nori and their transition, and they talked about their hopes and dreams for the future. Eventually, the two would make it a habit to meet up after classes to study together and more.

Over the next year Eleanor Black was the best friend Nori could ever ask for. Eleanor saw Nori at every step of their transition, helped Nori navigate their queerness, and broke the shell that Nori built around her.

Eventually Eleanor finished her degree and found a job across the country, and the parting of the two friends was bittersweet. Both made promises to visit, and both ensured the other that this was not the end of their friendship.

As the year dragged on, her grandfather’s health began to decline, and he eventually passed away. Not long after, their grandmother would do so as well. They left Nori most of their money. It wasn’t enough to set them up for life, but it was enough to help them for a long time. It took Nori a while to recover from their demise. With the support of Eleanor from across the country Nori was able to move on and move forward.

Eventually Eleanor decided to fly back and spend a week with Nori as she mourned the loss further and Nori was ecstatic to have her best friend back. She got to the airport two hours earlier than needed and waited with a fun sign. She did not see Eleanor, but instead was rushed and hugged by a stranger who said she was her best friend. Nori played along, because the more they talked the more the experiences lined up. As the week ended, her friend returned home and Nori was left with a question that loomed larger than any other. The contact in her phone for Eleanor was under a different name, each photo they had together was different, and nothing made sense. Who was this Eleanor Black? And why did her memory of her not match reality?

Until she did more research and found others just like her who had experienced this same situation.

Nori wanted to know more.

_{Paranormal-Abilities
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"Quote about abstraction here."

Jordan Fuchs

"How about we don't do that"

_______________________________________________ Jordan Thomas Fuchs He/Him | 24 | German-American | 6'3" | 180 _______________________________________________ Sociable _______________________________________________ Skills & Talents "I am not deluded, I doubt I could have ever gone pro.. in any sport. They are fun though." ___________________________________ [+] [Friend of many] ⫻ Jordan has a way to become everyone's friends. Growing up it was his goal to turn bullies into buddies, and he far exceeded it. No matter who he meets he can quickly find a way to become a friend. [Social Butterfly] ⫻ Jordan excels in groups of strangers. He quickly makes it a point to learn everyone's name, story, and will tailor his personality to make the strongest first impression. In these groups Jordan can often be the loudest, most commanding presence. [College Graduate] ⫻ Jordan graduated with a degree in International Business Management. He does not work in that sector but he finished the degree just for the sake of his family. [Amateur Athlete] ⫻ Ever since he was young Jordan has always loved the thrill of contact sports. He played football, and American football, and recently has begun to dabble in Gaelic Football. His biggest asset is his speed, both straight line and in his cuts.

Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I may be simple but I am comfortable" Despite his height it is hard to pick out Jordan in a crowd. His fashion is typically utilitarian underneath an odd assortment of sweaters and jackets. Jordan has never really felt the need to dress up more than what is needed, and that is not something that has bothered him. Jordan has brown eyes that mesh well with his slightly tan completion and dark hair. He keeps his beard long, but it is well groomed and healthy. His skin is completely free of blemishes, thanks in no small part to his families’ genetics and his skin care routine. Jordan will often wear a few different frames for his glasses, normally one that has a circle for one side and a square for the other. On the surface Jordan is a clean cut, and moderately attractive man. Under the surface Jordan’s personal taste shows more. His muscular body is covered with tattoos. While there is no rhyme or reason to them, as he often visits local shops and purchases small tattoos from their flash, he does love them all equally. He has plans to get more done. Jordan is also very muscular, which is often hidden under his clothing. Ever since he was young, he has been in the gym, whether training for sports or training to keep sad thoughts away. While he is not the strongest person on any given team, nor in a given location, his strength is function not form.

_{Psychology
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"Why should I develop my own when I can simply borrow yours."

MAIN GOAL ⫻

Jordan's main goal in life is to always put his best foot forward and eventually start a family of his own. As well, he knows that he has yet to find his true calling. He knows that once he finds what it is it will help him reach his final goals.

PHILOSOPHY ⫻

One's worth is not determined by their wealth, and one's strength is not based on their muscles.

Jordan does not believe there is one way to be successful. Whether you make a million dollars and are happy, or live in a van down by the river and are happy, it does not matter. As long as you are happy, and you take care of yourself, you are successful enough. As well, Jordan does not believe you need raw strength to be a strong person. The strongest people he has met were those who have overcome the most and not the ones who can put the most weights on a bar.

SECRETS ⫻

Jordan cheated his way through university. He had no intent on even going to university however his hand was forced by his parents'. As such he had no drive of his own to actually graduate, and instead allowed his parents' to waste their money on this endeavor. Cheating was almost harder than actually studying but Jordan committed to it and graduated as a result.

SEXUALITY ⫻

Jordan is somewhere on the bi spectrum. He prefers women 9 times out of 10 but that 1 time is enough that he considers himself not straight.

FEARS ⫻

Jordan is afraid that he is destined to end up alone. Even now, he watches as friend after friend gets engaged or has a kid meanwhile he has been finding it harder and harder to connect with new romantic partners. He has always had a desire to raise a family and raise them well

WHO IS ELEANOR BLACK TO YOU? ⫻

Eleanor is Jordan's former partner. They dated for two whole years and broke up a year ago.

FLAWS ⫻

Jordan often drinks an unhealthy amount of caffeine. People have voiced their concerns numerous times.

He also suffers from a martyr complex. He has a fear of death, however that fear wanes when it pertains to the misguided notion that his death could save someone else. He often thinks that a good death saving another, no matter who, would be a good enough reward.

Jordan does not have a true personality. He instead borrows elements of those around him. This has allowed him to befriend most, however it has made it impossible for him to develop the close attachments he truly craves.

_{Backstory
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"It was almost too perfect."

Conventional is the only word one could think of to describe the normal life of the star athlete.
Jordan grew up in New England to an upper middle-class family. His father worked for a major financial firm and his mother stayed at home. He had three siblings, one brother and two sisters, each a year apart from the next. His family paid their dues to get the four of them into the best schools they could. Early on Jordan began showing his natural athletic gifts and he was placed into sports early on. As he grew, so to did his skills in these sports. By the time he reached high school he was considered a very talented athlete with a lot of prospects ahead of him.

His parents pushed him to excel even more so than he already was. His father wanted to live that life vicariously, and he would force Jordan to forgo all personal wants to achieve it. He would wake up early, train, go to school, train after school, go home for homework, and then bed. This would repeat. Day in, day out. It was unrelenting. Even though he was getting burned out he pushed through it and kept at the grind. By the time he finished high school he had won a few state championships and had gotten some interest in some collegiate play.

He would end up competing at the college level for a short time, but he was never talented nor fast enough to compete fully. No matter how much he trained there was just a divide that was too far too cross. Eventually, after a few injuries slowed him further, he was off the team and the next phase of his life began.

It was at this time Jordan met Eleanor Black. She was a classmate of his and the two sat next to each other. She was always early, and he was always late. She was cute, more so than anyone else that Jordan had met up to this point and she tried to catch him up on topics he was late for. Eventually they swapped numbers, and met up for drinks, and drinks turned into a two-year relationship with more ups than downs. They would break up not long after that second anniversary as they were at two different points in life and in expectations for what would come next.

While the breakup was mutual, it still hurt Jordan and he would end up falling into a prolonged depressive episode. The two remained in contact with each other and eventually they agreed to meet up for food and to catch up. Only.. it wasn’t Eleanor that showed up. It was Allison. She did not look like the person he wanted to build a family with, she did not sound like his former lover, however she talked like she knew every fine detail about their time together. What’s more, she reminisced about some vacations they took together and showed him a photo that had come up in her memories and it was not Eleanor in the photo with him. Sure enough, as Jordan looked back at the photos each one had Allison. Each one had her name. His phone contact read Allison. His friends all remember how sweet Allison was and had no idea he dated someone named Eleanor.

Jordan has tried to put this whole ordeal behind him but no matter what he does, he can not shake the thought that something colossally fucked up happened and he cannot explain what. He has graduated, he has worked odd jobs, and he had made it a goal to just *forget* that she had even existed until, one night, when browsing the internet, Jordan would stumble on a post that would bring light to the chaos.

Others had experiences with this Eleanor. Each one is different, but at the same time not unique. In an instant all those thoughts returned and they reignited his desire to get to the bottom of what had happened, and who this Eleanor black truly was.

_{Paranormal-Abilities
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"Quote about abstraction here."

^{Other
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"OH, an ultimate frisby league! Do I have the time? Does it matter? Yes, I must join."

Anyyyything else?

TREE

Evelynn Ann Serenelight

"Maybe I will find the answer to my problems at the bottom of that next bottle.."

_______________________________________________ Evelynn Ann Serenelight She/Her | 29 | White | 64 In | 127 pnds _______________________________________________ Oracle _______________________________________________ Skills & Talents "I wish I was more useful." ___________________________________ [+] [Customer Service] ⫻ Evelynn has spent the past decade working in customer service in some shape or fashion. From client-facing, to call center work and more, Evelynn has developed a natural rapport with people. People often remark that their customer service voice is much more soothing and less agitating than her normal voice. [Lover of puzzles] ⫻ From her earliest memories, Evelynn has always loved a challenge and more so loved puzzles. Whether a puzzle board or a complex problem, Evelynn finds joy in working it out. She can often be found playing these kind of games on her phone to pass the time. [Alcoholic Bloodline] ⫻ Thanks to her family, and for her practice, Evelynn can handle her alcohol quite well. While she has yet to go bottle for bottle with her grandma, she knows it is only a matter of time before she develops a stronger liver. [Strong cup of joe] ⫻ Every morning Evelynn makes a cup of coffee and those who stay over remark that it is one strong cup of joe. [Unlucky in love] ⫻ Evelynn has no success in her love life yet this has always been for the best. She has a habit of falling in love with the first man who shows her interest. The longest relationship she has been in has been for only three months. After the breakup, it seems everyone reveals their red flags, and she realizes she has dodged a bullet.

Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "You're not very pretty, and you're not very bright." Evelynn is a woman whose appearance is a mesmerizing blend of uniqueness and elegance. She rocks light brown hair with straight bangs that frame her face, giving off a touch of sophistication. Her hair is often pulled back into a practical ponytail, showcasing her ability to balance style with practicality. Her green eyes, like shards of emerald, carry a spark of intelligence and a hint of mischief. Evelynn's makeup is an artful expression of her creativity. She spends entirely too much time on her eyeliner as it enhances the captivating allure of her gaze. A dash of dark lipstick adds that rebellious touch. She is pierced, and each one tells a different story of herself. A small silver hoop in her left nostril and an industrial bar piercing in her right ear contribute to her rough and tough look. She got these after she left the coven and ventured far to truly find herself. This act of defiance against what was her ordinary life set the stage for what was to come. Tattoos, and many of them. Both of her arms served as a canvas for her friend's imagination. She has various small tattoos that do not look professionally done, yet she loves them all the same. The cat on top of the yarn, the dog chasing its tail, and all the various characters from her favorite movies and TV shows all blend to form the sleeve on her left arm. Her right arm shows a level of detail and refinement that contrasts with the other. A deer with a crown of roses, an owl that sits on the branch of a sycamore tree, and a snake that wraps around her arm, overlapping itself. The lines on this arm are crisp, the colors clean, and the cost too high to count. Her fashion is a bit basic. Sweaters and cropped hoodies overtop high-waisted jeans, or a crop top shirt overtop high-waisted shorts. Either way, she always fills out her outfits with an odd assortment of jewelry and Doc Martin boots.

_{Psychology
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"Some days I feel like I am stuck in the middle of a raging river that pulls me downstream to a dark sea, and no matter how hard I swim I can never get back to shore."

MAIN GOAL ⫻

Evelynn harbors ambitious aspirations for her future and it has been their main goal to unravel the threads of what her purpose is. She wants to unearth a sense of purpose, a calling that resonates deeply with the core of their being.

This quest for purpose hasn't been a fleeting endeavor; it's been painful, marked by introspection and self-discovery. Hours have been devoted to unraveling the intricate layers of their interests and talents, each step a deliberate one toward the elusive goal of finding not just a job, but a vocation that aligns with her preconceived idea of what she wants to do. Evelynn wants nothing more than for the day to arrive when her job will cease to be answering phones and answering questions, instead, it will be a place where she can plant roots and grow professionally.

Beyond the realm of career pursuits, there's a second facet to Evelynn's hopes—the pursuit of love. Their journey in matters of the heart has been fraught with missteps and heartaches. Yet, amidst the echoes of past disappointments, Evelynn remains steadfast in the desire to find a genuine and enduring love.

PHILOSOPHY ⫻

Evelynn's philosophy centers around the belief that life is a kaleidoscope of experiences, both challenging and beautiful. Every experience is meant to be embraced and learned from. They see purpose as a journey rather than a destination, and that one can make a lot of progress as long as one has a continuous desire for self-discovery and adaptation.

The core tenets of Evelynn's philosophy are resilience, authenticity, and an unyielding optimism that tomorrow holds the promise of growth, connection, and a new day for new experiences.

SECRETS ⫻

The true extent of her alcoholism. She knows better than to allow someone to witness the amount she drinks, and she does well to hide the hangovers as well. Some have begun to talk to her about her rampant drinking but even they are kept out of the loop.

SEXUALITY ⫻

Bisexual/heteroromantic. Evelynn has a deep love for both men and women, yet she feels like she can only form romantic feelings for men.

FEARS ⫻

Evelynn's family is marred by early deaths and unfulfilled purposes. She fears that one day she will find herself at death's door, no closer to knowing who she is and nowhere near understanding the true power of her purpose. That she will be alone, with no one to help her through those final difficult moments.

REPUTATION IN OLD COVEN ⫻

Evelynn was well-liked in the old coven. She was friendly, accountable, and always there for those who needed help. While she was not around them as much as she would have liked, she was often pulled away when tragedy inevitably struck, she still made the moments she was there count and held most of the members in high regard. She did not know it at the time but there were a few members who were skeptical of her and her demeanour. Her power enabled her to see a possible future, what if she was using it to keep on everyone's good side? As such, as a whole, she would have been well-liked, but not trusted.

ROLE IN THE BATTLE AGAINST THE STYGIAN SNAKE ⫻

Evelynn was a supporting party in the battle. She used her gifts to try and guide the covens' strikes, as well as see if their attacks would work. Her abilities were hampered during the battle by the sheer number of eventualities she tried to decipher. As such, some were hurt when she gave the wrong information to the wrong person.

FLAWS ⫻

Indecisiveness: Evelynn tends to struggle with making decisions, especially when faced with significant choices related to her career or personal life

Perfectionism: In her pursuit of purpose and love, Evelynn often sets exceedingly high standards for herself, leading to frustration and self-criticism when things don't go as planned.

Overthinking: She tends to overanalyze situations, creating unnecessary stress and sometimes hindering her ability to take spontaneous or intuitive actions.

Difficulty Trusting Others: The scars from previous negative experiences in relationships have left Evelynn with difficulty trusting new people, making it challenging for her to fully open up and connect on a deeper level.

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"If I have to go to another funeral this year I swear..."

In the quiet shadows of St. Portwell, nestled within the mist-laden landscapes of Oregon, Evelynn Ann Serenelight's story unfolded against a backdrop of perpetual gloom. The town stood as a silent witness to the cyclical tragedy that befell the Serenelight lineage. Born into a family marked by the curse of premature death, Evelynn's childhood in St. Portwell bore the weight of sorrow brought on by her constant presence at the funeral home. She lost three uncles, one aunt, three siblings, and both her parents all before her twenty-first birthday. None by natural means. Her father and mother died together in a car accident. From the report, it was suggested that her father was distracted by something while behind the wheel, causing him to drive off the road and into a pole. The same fate would befall two of her siblings, while the third drowned.

Before all that death Evelynn was involved with the Sycamore Tree Coven, and it was here that much of Evelynn's drive to better herself and better her future came from. She was in class when the apparitions started their attack. She, however, handled the attack better than the others thanks to her gift. Her gift had manifested a few days prior, and at first, she thought she had gone mad. Slowly, she trusted her gut and began to explore her gift at every possible moment. She used her gift to test if a path was safe and helped shepherd others to safety. She spent the rest of the event running from moment to moment, spending more time watching possible futures than in the present, and used her gifts to the best of her ability to help others survive. Sadly, she was not as good as the group needed her to be.

After the fallout of the event settled, and the coven disbanded, Evelynn knew she had to go far away from this whole mess. She moved across the country for college and spent more time with her mom's side of the family. This place became a fleeting escape from the shadow cast by her experiences in the coven. Every moment of peace and happiness would be plagued by the 'what if it happens again here' or the 'what if the snake manages to break free' thoughts. She would end up spending a lot of time in therapy, choosing the right words to get the point across without revealing what had happened, and ended up getting some help with the dread she faced.

In college she had a lot of trouble finding a path that suited her unique skillset, as well she found it hard to find one that would truly bring her joy and happiness. As such, her grades were never perfect as she often second-guessed her own decisions. She had a long-held desire to be a graphic designer. She was always a beacon of creativity, after all, yet it was as if everything she created was nothing more than strokes on a canvas that was veiled with a perpetual filter of ick.

While the past decade seemed to fly by, Evelynn always kept an eye on her future and one on her past. She wants to avoid any unforeseen disaster that could take her out like the rest of her father's family, and she wants to remember and always be ready in case the sins of the past break free. When news reached her ears about the deaths of coven members, Evelynn dwelled on what to do. Eventually, she elected to return home. Home to face the curse of her family, and home to ensure that the world remained safe forever more.

_{Abstraction
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"If you take three steps that way you will either run into a monster or be safe."

TYPE ⫻ (Afflicted Aberration)

ABSTRACTION ⫻ Foresight - Evelynn can pull on her curse to see the possible futures ahead of her.

ABSTRACTION DESCRIPTION ⫻ Evelynn's story begins with her ancestors. It is told that her great-great Grandfather crossed a witch out in the woods, he had come to seek the power to see the path to a prosperous future, and when he did not pay what was due the witch placed a curse on the man and his bloodline. This curse allowed them to see a possible future, yet it caused many to get lost in it which caused their early death. It was as if the power itself manifested at the worst possible time for the rest of her family.

There was never any proof, mind you, and Evelynn was happy to chalk it up to a family story that was nothing more than a story. Yet, as she grew, she watched as anyone born on her father's side of the family died younger than they should have, often in accidents that could have been avoided had they been more present.

This curse has seemingly grown stronger as the generations have passed. And the events of the battle with the snake added fuel to that fire. This has resulted in Evelynn's unique gift. She has the gift of foresight, the ability to see possible outcomes for any action she wishes. Whether that is walking alone down the dark, dusty road at night or as simple as what lunch she picks to eat, Evelynn can project what may happen before it happens. She does not move, does not react, and to the outside world the projections look as real as anything out. The further she projects into a possible future the longer she has to remain idle. At the end of the day, these possible futures require an interpretation. Sometimes the projections are clear, but often they are not. Evelynn will either have to spend more time, and project more possibilities, or try and interpret from just one.

LIMITS ⫻

Her gifts never show what will happen, only what could. Thus, if she does not spend some time trying to bolster her prediction with more possibilities, she will often be wrong. As well, spending more time and energy on these predictions causes her to lose focus on the present around her.

WEAKNESSES ⫻ The gift of Foresight also comes with the curse of misfortune. Wherever she goes, a subtle telekinetic ability acts to make misfortune happen to her. Whether it's dropping something she's carrying into the water, things falling on her, or... an attack that would have otherwise missed hitting her.

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"Even with this power I still can't win the lottery."

Evelynn always has a flask of alcohol on her person.

Lila Blackwod

"Good morning my lovelies I have gifts to share with the flock."

_______________________________________________ Lila May Blackwood They/Them/She/Her | 25 | White | 65 (In Inches) | 110 (Pounds/LB) _______________________________________________ Nevermore. _______________________________________________ Skills & Talents "I have quite the bounty for you today." ___________________________________ [+] [“Quote the Raven”] ⫻ Lila is well-versed in what her avian friends want and need to thrive. After she left the coven she enrolled in Oregon State University and went through a veterinary program, and currently works as a vet tech in town. As well, she is also well-versed in taking care of most animals. [Cooking] ⫻ Lila is a fantastic cook. While she does not need anything fancy, she often shares her food with her flock and as such, she wants to have the ability to give them something new constantly. As well, she has a love for cooking for her friends and family, and this has led to her place becoming a small meetup spot. [Lay of the lands] ⫻ Lila has spent countless days outdoors tending to her flock and as such, she has learned how to navigate the woods without rousing suspicion from other witches and warlocks

Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I am not for everyone." Lila is a vibrant and confident soul standing at a petite five feet five inches tall. Lila rocks short, texturized hair that exudes an edgy charm, a testament to her fearless approach to self-expression. She sports an eclectic wardrobe, often opting for crop tops that flaunt her midriff, paired with flannel pants that rest tight against her hips. Lila adorns her hips with chains that jingle and dance as she moves. She proudly wears a variety of expensive-looking rings on her fingers, each telling a unique story that she does not know. These are the gifts her flock has given her over the years, and she treasures each one more than anything anyone has given her. In embracing her natural beauty, Lila chooses not to conform to conventional beauty standards and she confidently goes makeup-free, allowing her visible acne scars to shine as badges of resilience and self-love. Lila's authenticity and openness about her journey contribute to the magnetic energy she exudes. Lila proudly wears a distinctive tattoo that adds an extra layer of uniqueness to her already bold persona. Inked on her left forearm is a stylized crow, each feather on the wings are colored with the colors of the LGBTQ+ pride flag. The tattoo serves as a powerful symbol of Lila's own trans journey, resilience, and her connection to her queer community. When asked about the tattoo, Lila often shares stories of the people she has met, the challenges she has overcome, and the triumphs of her identity. It's not just body art for her; it's a narrative of her life etched into her skin, a testament to her strength, individuality, and the vibrant community she proudly represents.

_{Psychology
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"Listen, all this stress is leading somewhere."

MAIN GOAL ⫻

Lila's main goal in life is to create a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ youth to express themselves freely and find support in St. Portwell. Motivated by her own journey and the challenges she faced while navigating her identity, Lila is driven to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals who may be going through similar experiences.

Her experiences with the Stygian Snake made her realize that life was already too short, and that helped push her toward acceptance of her own identity as well as push her towards wanting to be an advocate for the generations that follow.

PHILOSOPHY ⫻

Lila's philosophy revolves around the principles of authenticity, acceptance, and empowerment. At the core of her beliefs is the idea that everyone deserves the space and freedom to be their true selves without fear of judgment or discrimination.

SECRETS ⫻

Since she started her transition young, she has lived life stealthily and the outside world is never the wiser. While her friends, and the coven, know her trans identity most strangers on the street would never know.

She has a secret talent that she fears would lead to snide comments and questions that ask her why she does it. Lila likes to make origami birds. She often travels around town and leaves them behind books at the library, behind food in the grocery store, and in places, where people would never expect to see an origami bird.

Despite her outward confidence, Lila grapples with her insecurities and fears. She carries the weight of the battle with the snake even to this day, despite telling everyone that she has recovered enough from that headspace. She is always on the lookout for signs of the snake's return, as well as monitors the town and the forest around for other dangers that could threaten the world.

SEXUALITY ⫻

Queer. Lila has always had a deep love for women, and feminine presenting people.

FEARS ⫻

Lila's strong sense of community and her commitment to creating inclusive spaces stem from a deep-seated fear of isolation.

Lila carries a fear of regression, particularly in terms of societal progress. Despite the positive strides made in LGBTQ+ rights, she worries about the potential backlash or regression in acceptance.

Lila carries a fear of leaving important work unfinished. Whether it's her advocacy, community projects, or personal goals, she fears not being able to accomplish everything she envisions and as such, she carries boasts an insanely high work ethic. She fears the day she loses it.

REPUTATION IN OLD COVEN ⫻ (

Lila was known as Michael in the Old Coven at the start. At that time she was a timid, shy individual and more often than not followed the stronger voices that stood in front of her. She was considered meek, weak-willed, and often a pushover. Shortly after leaving the coven, she changed everything about who he was, yet these changes may not have had changed what everyone remembered

ROLE IN THE BATTLE AGAINST THE STYGIAN SNAKE ⫻

Lila used her crows in a supportive role, using her crows to distract enemies from her friends and she also used them in a limited offensive role to peck at the eyes of those she could. She eventually watched as her flock vanished after too many close calls and she was forced to be only emotional support.

FLAWS ⫻

Overcommitment - Lila's dedication to her cause sometimes leads to over-commitment. She tends to take on more responsibilities than she can handle, leading to moments of exhaustion and stress. Her fear of leaving important work unfinished exacerbates this fault as she struggles to find the balance between her personal life and her advocacy.

Difficulty Delegating - Due to her deep personal investment in her projects, Lila finds it challenging to delegate tasks. This can lead to burnout, as she may be reluctant to entrust critical responsibilities to others. Learning to share the workload is a continual struggle as she grapples with the fear that others may not approach the work with the same passion and commitment.

Impatience with Inaction - Lila's impatience with societal progress and injustices can lead to frustration. She struggles to understand those who don't share her sense of urgency, sometimes alienating individuals who may be at different stages of their journey toward acceptance and understanding.

_{Backstory
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"Thanks to gran, I feel like I can do anything."

In the quiet embrace of Oregon's serene landscapes, Lila's childhood unfolded amidst the separation of her parents. She was sent to live with her Grandma, and what initially seemed like an upheaval early in her formative years turned into a blessing. Under Grandma's watchful eye, Lila's early years were the most amazing time of her life and it was filled with love, wisdom, and a caring approach that her parents never brought. These foundational moments became the bedrock of the values that would shape Lila's journey.

As adolescence dawned, Lila began to grapple with a profound sense of something wrong with her gender. Seeking answers and clarity, her grandmother sought help and took Lila to therapy. It was during these introspective moments that the extraordinary revealed itself – a mystical connection with a murder of crows, bound to Lila as if they took a fancy to the young kid. When she gave them a treat and asked them to do something, they would. This connection became an integral part of her identity and a source of her power.

The pivotal moment in Lila's journey occurred during the fierce confrontation with the Stygian Snake. As the world descended into chaos around her, she leaned on her crows to keep her safe. Cornered, and out of gifts for the crows, she was rescued by members of the coven, who brought the struggling kid into their fold. The battle ended up mirroring the internal struggle she faced with her gender identity. It became the crucible in which her decision to undergo a medical transition was forged. Post-battle, the subsequent months were marked by a labyrinthine journey through the approval process, a mosaic of challenges and triumphs that would pave the way for her rebirth. After the battle, she stayed with the Coven. These powers of hers confused, and concerned, her, and this seemed like a safe place for her to expand her knowledge of them. She never felt like she fit in with the rest of the group, and she often just followed whoever had the most confident voice and commanding pressure.

In the wake of the Coven's disbandment, Lila's path led her to higher education. Fueling her passion for nurturing and care, she emerged as a vet tech, bridging the ordinary and the mystical in her commitment to the well-being of both animals and humans alike.

Yet, the call to return echoed across the corners of her mind. Despite the personal growth and achievements of the interim period, the bonds forged within the mystical embrace of the Coven held an unyielding sway. Recognizing the significance of her power and feeling the pull of destiny, Lila chose to answer the call. As well, something strange happened in the weeks leading up to the eventual reformation of the coven. Her crows have been leading her to strange new places in the forests, and she hears the call of a mystical figure with each waking thought. This figure calls herself the Maiden of the Raven, and she promises much, and Lila is beginning to listen.

_{Abstraction
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"I will have them scout ahead, quick give me your watch."

TYPE ⫻ Aberration (Adjoined)

ABSTRACTION ⫻ The Crow Pact, a supernatural connection with the crows of St. Portwell that gift Lila with information, items, and protection, in exchange for shiny objects and food.

ABSTRACTION DESCRIPTION ⫻ The Crows of St. Portwell noticed Lila the moment things started to get weird with the Snake. They quickly took a liking to her and attached themselves to her soul without her knowing, at least at first. The Crows Pact is a strange abstraction as it's unknown what Apparition is adjoined to Lila, as the Crows do not speak in the traditional sense as the only way they can communicate is nonverbally (though, they are known to gather together to spell out words). It's unknown if the Crow Pact is one Apparition controlling all the birds, several different Apparitions in the crows, or if the Crows are Apparitions themselves. Given the situation in St. Portwell, it's completely irrelevant as the Crow Pact is possibly one of the most powerful Abstractions among the cast.

It's a psychic connection to the crows... which will follow Lila around town wherever she goes. Wherever Lila goes, there will be one giant murder of crows following her, even in places where the crows logically have no way of getting to. They will form up and will gesture to Lila to give them something: whether it's food or something shiny and in return they will do a favor for Lila. (They can strangely understand English). This can be anything that comes to mind, she can ask the crows to grab something for her, find someone in St. Portwell, or even attack someone. This depends on the gift; if she gives them a measly penny, maybe they'll do something but if she drops a bag of diamonds in front of them; best believe they'll put their foot in it.

At the start, she had just a dozen crows that would assist her with her tasks but now she has well over a hundred. The price to get rid of them for a little while is fairly low, but they'll always be back even if Lila tells them to never come back.

Something strange has started to happen with her crows. They have begun to direct her deeper and deeper into the woods around the town, almost directing her towards something. As well, she has begun to hear whispers in the corner of her mind, whispers that come from The Maiden of Crows. It beckons her to let her in, and reap the rewards of her acts of kindness towards her subjects.

LIMITS ⫻

First and foremost, the crows are just regular crows other than the psychic connection nonsense - they can't do anything more than a regular crow can do. It requires a lot of shiny objects and food in order to motivate the crows to do something in return, and they'll complete that one task and then require another gift in order to fulfill another task. The Crows are a very picky sort, and will only fulfill five favors in a day (whether they're tiny or monumental does not matter, so Lila has to be careful), and once Lila reaches those five tasks - the crows will be satisfied and will disappear for the day.

WEAKNESSES ⫻

There are two primary disadvantages to the Crow pact... the primary one being that the crows will follow Lila everywhere and a giant mass of crows in one spot is very conspicuous. She can ask them to go away for a little while, but that's at the cost of one of a favor. The thing that Lila has to keep in mind is that the Crows are literal minded as they come, so she has to be careful with phrasing or the Crows will end up being an issue for her. The crows are weak against attacks with areas of effect such as explosions, fire, etc, etc, and if enough crows are killed, they will flee and Lila will be without them for the day.

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"Should I listen to the Maiden, or are y'all just fucking with me?"

Lila has a constant supply of high quality snacks on her in her bags. She will not share.

NPC The Maiden

The Maiden.of the Crows

Millennia's old | The Maiden of the Crows | She/Her

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"I only ask for you to trust me."

Description:

The Maiden of the Crows is a mysterious figure who stands at a height of five feet seven inches. Its attire is a mesmerizing display of otherworldliness, as both its dress and cloak are crafted from the sleek, iridescent feathers of crows. These feathers cascade down gracefully, creating a flowing and ethereal appearance. If she so costs she can expand the cloak, causing it to turn into her winter. These wings unfold with broken beauty and cast a green light on the area in front of it. The feathers are much, much larger than any crow seen on Earth suggesting that there exists a giant one out there, somewhere in the void, or the feathers are simply a construct of The Maiden. On a close look, it may be that The Maiden has a flair for the dramatic and simply modeled her dress after the Crows she so affectionately loves, but on a second glance one might see that the dress, and the outfit a whole, can separate in the middle. A possible second set of wings, or a possible entry point to something more monstrous underneath.

The Maiden's hair seamlessly merges with her cloak. A mask conceals her face, leaving observers unable to discern the features behind it. Her visage is further heightened by a vibrant green emerald that adorns her waist, catching the eye amidst the dark feathers. The gem has a quality that draws in all eyes, causing those who stare for too long to be entranced with a desire to trade anything, and everything, to try and convince The Maiden to part with it. If that fails, they will then take it from her.

A green glow envelops the Maiden. The glow is the same color as the emerald that sits on her waist and it carries a softer form of the trance effect of the gem. Those who bask too long under the glow are eventually driven mad with a desire to pluck the feathers off the Maidens's wings. On top of her head is a crown of feathers. Each feather seems to be plucked from a separate crow, and the more crows that are available to Lila the more feathers adorn the crown.

Abstraction:

Apparition - A Murder of Crows

The Maiden is an Apparition born from the emotion of loneliness. Long, long ago she spawned into existence in this realm and has sought out a companion, a friend, or a lover to keep her company and break her loneliness. Yet, no matter who she lets in or gets close they are taken under the spell of her form, compelling them to break her body to steal her feathers and her jewels. The Maiden has a curse, and her body is hexed to enact revenge on those who succumb to the allure of her gifts. Those who pluck and steal a feather will eventually be turned into one of her servant crows within a week of the theft, and those who steal the jewels from her body eventually get turned into the very item they stole. As such, The Maiden maintains a treasure trove that is next to none in terms of size and has a flock of followers to keep her company on her eternal search for a companion, a friend, or a lover to keep her company and break her loneliness until the end of time.

The Maiden becomes adjoined with every person she tries to bring into her life, and once selected there is no way to break free of her grasp except distance. If the person she is adjoined to has gifted her enough valuable stuff, however, distance is no longer a hurdle and The Maiden will follow the person forever more. Until they either accept her invitation, and gaze on her form, or die. Once adjoined, The Maiden will bind her crows to a chosen mortal. Her current choice is Lila.

Once The Maiden binds her Crows there is no way to undo it. The Crows will take commands from the chosen, as long as they are offered a reward for doing so. The Crows themselves take great pleasure in shiny things, be it jewelry like rings and necklaces or raw gems. In the modern world the Crows have an intense love of anything diamonds although, in the past, gold was king. The Crows will also love a delicious treat, and they have been known to do many a bold thing for a particular dish that Lila cooks often for them.

The Crows do not collect the jewelry and the gems for themselves. They collect, and return, them back to The Maiden. While it is unclear why The Maiden requests these gifts for a favor from the crows, especially considering the vast wealth she has available, it is suspected that it is a way to gauge the soul of a person. A gift given freely, without a task, is often considered especially important to The Maiden, as are gifts that carry a significant emotional reason or history. As such, a ring that has been in a family line for generations could convince The Maiden to advance her trust faster as there is power in that emotional connection.

After the Maiden has deemed a mortal worthy, she will begin to unlock more of her power, and with that comes her voice. The Maiden will begin trying to build trust with her chosen. Offering her guidance, her opinions, and her assistance in their struggles. These whispers also have some of the infecting qualities much like her appearance. The more The Maiden whispers, the more she will want to talk. The more she talks, the more persuasive The Maiden becomes. The Maiden's end goal is to convince the chosen to take her challenge, and she will do anything she can and say anything she needs to get the chosen to let her in, and then she will let the chosen into her realm. And once she has the chosen in her realm, she will make them undergo her trials.

The Maiden is covered in cursed feathers, gems, and jewelry. The curse works in two stages. Stage one is infection. When the chosen gazes on The Maiden's true form they will be overcome with a desire to take something from her body, and the infection that follows will be based on that choice. No chosen has managed to avoid taking something from The Maiden and the curse that compels them to look is strong. If the chosen takes a feather from her wings, they will start to notice a change happening within a few days. Feathers will begin to sprout all across their body until, after exactly one week they will be transformed into one of The Maiden's crows and be subjugated to be a servant of The Maiden for the rest of time. If a jewelry piece or gem is taken the mortal will undergo a similar transformation though instead of a crow they will instead transform into whatever they stole, a ring stolen means the mortal becomes a ring.

[NoriWasHere]

INTERACTIONS

“Oh,” was all Jasper could say as the agent took off her mask, revealing her Adjoined nature to him. He went through a few emotions quickly, each one staying on his face for a second or less. Surprise, confusion, curiosity, before ultimately inspiration. Jaspers eyes darted from the woman’s antennas, to her thorn like protrusions, to the red vine-like tendrils that covered the frame of her face. He slowly led his gaze back to the woman’s and blinked as he felt an agent unlocking his cuffs, and pulling him back up to a standing position. He flashed a half smile as he turned away from the woman. He wondered what kind of apparition bonded to form that appearance, he was not scared by it but he was inspired. There was a beauty in the colors that he could use, and he began to think of what his next painting might be, and how he’d incorporate these color patterns to it.

Painting. His mind fixated on the word, and then he shifted his eyes towards the painting he brought. He’d need to sieve quite a bit of time restoring it. He shifted his eyes over to Jack, who held Auri, and he exhaled. He hoped they’d be able to heal her, he really did not want to see the power vacuum that her death would cause. The already fractured coven split and splintered even further. “Why do I care though,” Jasper thought to himself, “I don’t think I’ll be sticking around much longer.” He sat there, for a moment more, before he looked at Lynn, Lila, and Luca. He knew they would more than likely stick around, and he also knew that he had to be there to protect them. “Fuck,” he thought to himself as pressed his hands to his temples. He looked over his friends as he threw his hands down to his sides. They started with Luca, and never left.“My man,” he thought to himself as he watched Luca being bottle fed some water. A smile at the ridiculous sight crossed his face and refused to leave. Good for him, if anyone deserved some action it was Luca.

---

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“Just as we,” Lynn paused as she tasted vomit in her mouth as she extended her hand towards Anya and pointed, “thought. These wolf idols are Father Wolf’s calling cards,” Lynn paused as she looked towards Meifeng, “do you know of anyone else who wasn’t a Sycamore coven member who was killed by him” she paused as she looked over the rest of the group, “or is it just us dying right now?”

She let the question linger for a moment. “And if it is just us being murdered right now that should fucking worry you.”

Lynn paused as she let out a little groan. While the fresh air had helped tremendously, she was still covered in that poison and the tear gas still clung to her eyes. She knew she needed some water to flush her eyes, but she left her only bottle of water inside the ruined church. She had her flask, as always, but she did not fancy the idea of pouring vodka on her eyeballs. She looked around and saw agents passing out water to a few members. And then she saw Luca being swaddled like a little baby by an attractive older woman. She let her eyes linger on the sight for just a moment, worried that it had just awoken something inside of her, before she turned her attention to the front and faced their leader Meifeng once more. “Can you pass out water to the rest of us as well? Heal those who need healed, take away the one you are here to arrest, but please give us all some water so we can flush our eyes the rest of the way and calm our throats. We’ll leave after, and I promise you some of us will do what we can to not end up on your radar like this again.”

“As well, maybe we can help each other out. We’re the ones dying so it’s not like we have a ton of options,” Lynn shrugged as she paused, “but we can both agree that we are the target. Maybe if we encounter Father Wolf we can give you a call so you can collect your pound of flesh,” she paused as she took a step forward, “avenge your fallen.”

She did not like talking like this to the Feds. She did not like the idea of involving them in their hunt of the wolf. But she knew that needed their help at least right now, and she knew that once a group is on their radar they never leave. And with 8th street threatening their members like they did last night, she’d rather keep on their good side at least until they were able to figure out how to protect themselves in this new magical world that inhabited St. Portwell.

As well, the PRA was a vital piece to figuring out the puzzle that was Father Wolf. If she could get their resources on their side, Lynn would be able to have a much easier time finding answers in the possible future.

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Lila took a deep breathe as an agent took off the cuffs that had begun to dig deep into her hands. She did not thank the agent, nor did she look at them, instead she simply rose to her feet and walked towards her friends. She trusted Lynn was not in all honestly wanting to work with the Feds, and she looked worried at what she saw between Jasper and a fed. The more Lynn talked the more an anger grew within her.

“I am still impressed by your troops and your skill Meifeng,” Lila sneered, “came to arrest one person, burned down a church, realized the scale of the fuck up and now you want to leave like nothing happened.” She let her eyes linger on Meifeng as she moved next to Jasper, pulling him away from the bug girl. She looked at him, back at the bug girl, and back to Jasper as her face danced between disgusted and confused. The disgust was for one singular reason. It wasn’t because she was this weird bug hybrid, no that was surprisingly okay given that, as children, they fought a literal world ending snake, and she sees a giant crow lady in her sleep. She would not judge someone for liking someone adjoined. And she was not going to judge Jasper for the lady catching his eye. Lila would not think any less of him, nor would she call him a furry or anything like that because he wouldn’t be one. She would judge him for the fact that she was a fucking PRA member.

“Bro, she’s a fed,” she whispered, “fuck all the way off with that nonsense.”

Lila looked over and saw Luca being bottle fed and watched, in horror, as he was called baby. What the fuck was going on? What the fuck was the PRA doing?

“Listen, if we’re free to go I’m going to leave,” Lila said as she looked over to Auri, ‘shit,’ she thought to herself. What the fuck happened at the back of the church. “Please heal her though,” she paused as she looked around the area. Ten years had passed since they fought the snake, but she could still see the ruined buildings, the bodies in the streets, and Auri being this hurt brought back a lot of those memories. “Please heal her,” she repeated,“and then fuck off.”

[NoriWasHere]

"GOOD MORNING CITZENS OF THE EMPIRE, FRONTIER PEOPLE OF DESOLARA RIFT."

A group of people gathered around the holo-projectors, eyes struggling to catch the illuminated image of the admiral through the dust storm that swept through their colony. The people bore the weight of their harsh existence, as did the buildings that formed the town square where they stood. The cheap paint used in the pre-fab buildings has long since eroded, leaving only a few flakes on top of the dull grey color of the building itself. Yet despite their harsh existence, and the many wants their hearts desired, their eyes held the faintest flicker of hope.

"I HAVE NEWS TO BRING. THE EMPIRE HAS HEARD YOUR PLIGHT, AND IT WILL GO UNNOTICED NO MORE."

A collective gasp cut through the howling winds. The people of Desolara Rift have grown accustomed to their lack of attention, the lack of assistance, and the abandonment from their sponsors. To them, the admiral speaking to them directly like this was already a miracle in and of itself. To them, the admiral telling them that he has noticed their struggle is a miracle that will be spoken of for decades to come.

"TODAY I ANNOUNCE THE FORMATION OF A NEW TASK FORCE, DESIGNED TO BRING YOU YOUR MOST CRITICAL NEEDS. THE USS TRAVELER, A HYPERDRIVE CAPABLE FRIGATE, WILL BE DISPATCHED WITH YOUR MUCH REQUESTED MEDICAL SUPPL-- REE DAYS FROM THIS TRANSMISSION THE TRAVELLER WILL ARRIVE AN-- EAR NOT, THIS WILL NOT BE THE ONLY TRIP. PLEASE VISIT YOUR LOCAL MILITIA STATION TO REQUEST FU-- PP---"

Even as the transmission was lost, the message contained within was not. Help was on the way. Help that was desperately needed to save the lives of hundreds, if not, thousands of workers and children who had fallen ill with a mysterious illness. The people of Desolara Rift wait with bated breath for the arrival of the Traveler. The people in need are not the only ones who await their arrival. Desolara Rift has, unbeknownst to the Empire, become a small hub for a local pirate faction that calls itself the Shadows Fist. They await the Traveler for a much different reason, revenge.

Lore of the universe:

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The Lore

There are a multitude of planets, solar systems, and stations you may have come from, but for one reason or another, you find yourself ready to embark on the Traveler. Humanity has long since spread its grasp on the galaxy, and our relentless expansion started with the desire of our earliest ancestors.

Ever since we developed the ability to think, we have thought about the heavens above. Whether through the lens of religion or science we have all had a deep intrinsic urge to venture beyond the planet we call home. In the 20th century we made many strides to accomplish this goal, from putting satellites in orbit, followed by men, followed by our first steps on a terrestrial body not our own. Soon thereafter our ability to push further into the heavens above slowed as we prepared for a bigger, bolder, giant leap for mankind.

2030 was the year we stepped onto the surface of Mars for the first time. While our first step on the moon was short lived, our first life on Mars was anything but. Habitat Hope was built, developed, upgraded, and expanded over the next decade before we began to send more and more of our people to live on this new frontier. We perfected our initial sub-light engines by 2050 and began to spread throughout our system. Over the following decades we experienced our first inter-stellar wars. From the asteroid mining colonies all the way back to Earth there existed people whose ego, greed, or combination of led to the deaths of countless others.

In the year 2199 the first inter-stellar government body was formed. The United Planet Federation, UPF, united Humanity behind a singular goal. We had grown too big for our one system, and we had a destiny beyond. Luck was on their side as in 2203 the remains of a neutron star was identified flying near our star system and the element Wysonium was discovered, named after the scientist who discovered it, James Weiss. This element was incredibly dense and had unique anti-gravity properties that enabled humanity to bend the space time continuum in ways we could only dream. With this material, and through the blood, sweat, and tears of a hundred thousand scientists, the first Warp drive was developed.

This warp drive, called the Warp Flux Propulsion Drive (nicknamed the Rapture Engine), worked by creating a fold in space-time. While to an outside observer, the ship is traveling well over the speed of light, in truth the ship is moving no faster than it would with a standard sub-light engine. Through testing, it was determined that drive allowed a ship to travel 10 light years in one month.

With the Rapture Engine, we began to spread at a rapid pace once the first colony ships were developed. We colonized the first system outside Earth in the year 2301 and have never looked back. The first group of colonized planets, Lyri, Vellum, Topopolis, Mauveeau, and Eos formed the core region of the empires to come. These planets are also where the fleet academies are located. Lyri is your typical garden world, with lush forests and is where the fleet pilots are trained. The academy here is advanced with in depth simulations enabling would-be pilots to gain valuable experience through simulated encounters. Vellum is a hot, and intense world that has served as the primary shipyard due to its bountiful natural resources. The hot, hostile environment is used to harden the resolve of any and all marines and army soldiers alike. Topopolis is another garden world with a heavy focus on agriculture and medicine production. Fleet doctors, and medics, will often be stationed here to enhance their medical skills. These are not the only academies in the galaxy, they are simply the oldest and often the most prestigious.

In 2603, after centuries of peace, the first galactic war, dubbed “the first war in heaven” ravaged many worlds. While there were many causes of this war, the most accepted answer was lack of assistance for the outer realms. The core worlds received the best care, the most technology, and had a great quality of life while the outer realms were dirty, dangerous, and expected to feed the machine for scraps in return. The war ended in 2605 when the UPF fleet dealt a killing blow to the rebellions fleet, causing them to surrender and be pulled back into the fold. In 2803 “the second war in heaven” again ravaged the galaxy. This war was bigger. Much bigger. No planet was safe during this war, and it culminated in the siege of Mars. While the UPF was eventually the victor once more, this war caused cracks to appear which led to the fall of the UPF when John Vexx, admiral of the UPF fleet, led a coup d'etat and established himself as the first emperor of the Vexx empire.

At first, the Vexx empire was seen as a savior. They made sure each planet felt safe, fed, and involved in the grand stage of the galaxy. They pushed technology faster than ever and by the year 2995 they had developed the first hyperdrive. Yet as each century passed from their formation dissent began to grow once more. While they made every effort to advance each colony, they too often focused their attention on the needs of the few over the needs of the many. Once again, in 3009, the skies shuddered under the weight of the third, and latest, “war in heaven”. Thousand of ships were destroyed, tens of millions lives lost, and faith in the Vexx empire was shattered and broken beyond repair.

In the wake of the destruction, gangs and crime syndicates sprang up to fill the power vacuum. These criminal enterprises, combined with the rebellious nature of the outer reaches, have primed the galaxy for more conflict. A trillion lives stand with bated breaths, anxious for who will make the first move.

The Engines That Advanced Us:

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The Engines

Warp Flux Propulsion (WFP) Drive

The Warp Flux Propulsion Drive, or WFP Drive, which used to represent the cutting-edge warp drive technology that revolutionized interstellar travel. Discovered in 2203 by the renowned physicists Dr. James Weiss and Dr. Orion Nova, the WFP Drive enables spacecraft to manipulate the fabric of spacetime, creating warp bubbles that allow for faster-than-light travel.

The WFP Drive operates on the principle of warping spacetime around the spacecraft, effectively compressing space in front of it and expanding it behind. This manipulation creates a warp bubble, or "flux field," within which the ship exists as a standalone entity, detached from the traditional laws of space. The propulsion system utilizes advanced graviton emitters and exotic matter to generate the necessary energy for this spacetime manipulation.

To engage the WFP Drive, the spacecraft initiates a warp charge sequence. This involves the activation of graviton emitters that generate a localized gravitational flux, distorting the spacetime around the ship. Simultaneously, exotic matter injectors create a controlled influx of exotic particles, stabilizing the warp bubble. Once the warp bubble is stable, the spacecraft effectively "jumps" into warp space, where conventional ideas of distance and time become distorted.

Dr. Orion Nova's groundbreaking discovery of the WFP Drive occurred during an extensive study of the core of an old neutron star. He identified a unique interaction between the exotic matter and gravitational fields found within that laid the foundation for warp technology. After years of tireless research, Dr. Nova successfully constructed the first WFP Drive prototype.

The WFP Drive's discovery heralded a new era of exploration and galactic connectivity. Interstellar journeys that once took decades were now reduced to mere weeks. The widespread adoption of the WFP Drive transformed humanity's claim to the stars, allowing them to boldly traverse the cosmos and explore the far reaches of the universe.

Hyperluminal Quantum Resonator (HQR) Drive

The Hyperluminal Quantum Resonator Drive, or HQR Drive, is a revolutionary propulsion system discovered in the year 2995 by the renowned astrophysicist, Dr. Aria Celestalis. The HQR Drive operates on the principles of quantum entanglement and resonance, enabling spacecraft to achieve speeds faster than light.

The HQR Drive harnesses the power of quantum entanglement to create a resonance field around the spacecraft. A specially designed quantum resonator manipulates entangled particles, establishing a connection between the spacecraft and a distant point in space. This connection allows the spacecraft to instantaneously traverse the space between the two entangled points, effectively bypassing the limitations of traditional space travel.

The process begins with the activation of the resonator, which initiates the entanglement of particles within the spacecraft and a designated point in space. The resonance field then stabilizes, creating a stable conduit for the ship to traverse. By manipulating the entangled particles' quantum states, the spacecraft can move faster than light within this resonance field, achieving hyperluminal speeds.

The HQR Drive was discovered during an experimental mission exploring the planet *REDACTED*. Dr. Aria Celestalis, leading a team of brilliant scientists, stumbled upon a unique quantum phenomenon that laid the groundwork for the HQR Drive. Not much is known about the production, testing, and implementation of the drive itself. While the inventor was paraded through the universe on the first craft capable of making these jumps, her early death and the classification of the devices meant that not much else would ever be learned.

The discovery of the HQR Drive marked a new era in space exploration, unlocking the ability to reach distant galaxies in a fraction of the time previously thought possible. The news of this technological marvel spread throughout the universe, and the HQR Drive became the standard for the advanced warcraft of the empire, allowing the Empire to further cement its status as the only fleet power in the universe.

SUBLIGHT ENGINES:

Sublight engines are the main unit of transportation intersystem. While the tech has not advanced much over the past several centuries, they have not needed as much advancement. There is not a way to make a ship go faster without compromising the ship, and her crew, nor is it economically viable. Although it can take weeks to travel across a system using these engines it is still the most common method for intersystem travel. What is common is for a ship to warp into a system, to its midpoint station, and then travel using these engines to travel to its destination.

THINGS OF NOTE ABOUT BOTH:

A ship is identified primarily by its drive signature. While the construction of each engine is uniform, the small imperfections in the construction process leave a unique signature on its drive plume, warp bubble, and hyperdrive jump gate. Thus, a ship can be identified through camouflage and subterfuge. Changing the drive signature is possible, but would require a talented engineer and luck.

The Ship Based Weapon And Defense Systems:

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Ship Weapons and Active Defenses

Empire ships and their weapon systems are as unique to the ship as a fingerprint is to a human. Often, they will be swapped out before a mission to ensure that the ship is put into the best position to succeed. Despite this, weapon profiles often fall into three categories. Defense, Offense, and Support. In fleet combat, you will often have ships designed with one category, however, all ships usually have 2 out of the three.

DEFENSE:

A ship-based defense weapon is an active system that either intercepts or prevents a payload from reaching the ship.

The king of defense in space warfare is the Point-Defense Weapon system. These can be any number of things but they are typically small caliber auto-cannons, 30-50mm, or SWARM missiles. These are designed to intercept incoming fighters, bombers, gunships, missiles, and torpedoes. While they are not effective against the bigger ships, they are deadly against their intended targets.

Larger caliber cannons can also be loaded with FLAK shells for anti-fighter and missile work. These are considered smart rounds and will explode ahead of their target, creating a field of reactive debris that can quickly knock out the approaching craft if they dare to traverse the field.

Some ships will be equipped with a SCRAM Emitter. These come in various designs, shapes, and functions but at their core, they are designed to jam the targeting systems of incoming missiles. They often are precise instruments and need to keep a lock on the incoming missile or torpedo. As such, a swarm of missiles or torpedoes can overcome these defenses and leave a ship reliant on their PDW's.

OFFENSE:

In general, ship-to-ship combat is done at great range and accuracy is the most important metric a weapon can have. In space, accuracy is about prediction and velocity. There is often a lack of any outside influence on a projectile once fired, and as such it will go where it is aimed. If the round is not aimed at where a ship might be, it will miss and continue on forever. As such, a ship must be certain that its shot will hit otherwise it risks a stray projectile hitting something somewhere else at some other point in time.

In general, offensive weapons can be broken down into categories based on their range: long, medium, and short.

Long-range weapons tend to be either railguns for kinetic purposes or laser-based weapons. Rainguns that fall into this category tend to be Cruiser-level bow guns, as the velocity of their guns tends to make aiming at a distance more possible. The key to a hit involves targeting AI. The calculations needed change every fraction of a second, and a manual shot will more often miss. Laser-based weapons tend to be more forgiving however they lose potential damage with their shots. What they lose in damage potential they gain near-instant application of it. Long-range engagements are done at ranges of 10,000 Kilometers to 50,000 Kilometers.

Medium-range weapons are much like their long-range counterparts, as they are still dominated by Railguns and laser-based weapons. These tend to be the turret units and are smaller in size and scope. While the damage per shot is lessened, the accuracy and shot volume is increased. It is at these mid ranges missiles and torpedoes become prominent. Modern torpedoes, such as the HAVOC, feature a miniature warp drive warhead that can damage most ships of the line.

Short-range weapons tend to be the most diverse group of weapons. Auto-cannons, Plasma hurlers, Sonic Shockwave emitters, boarding harpoons, and more. Close-range weapons usually focus on delivering as much hurt as quickly as possible, and often if a fight has developed to these ranges accuracy no longer is a priority. These weapons are fast-firing and hard-hitting. Some ships are built around these close-range engagements. Pirates and other groups tend to focus on fast ships that can close the gap to the ranges.

Shuttles And Fighters:

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Shuttles and Fighters

BAT Shuttle

The BAT (Binary Dynamics All-Situation Shuttle_ shuttle is a relatively modern cargo shuttle capable of both protected travel through space, as well as entry into the atmosphere of a planetary body. It has been the workhorse shuttle for the Empire for thirty years now, and with the continuous updates and upgrades, it shows no signs of being retired any time soon. It features 14 hardpoints per wing that can carry either air-to-ground or air-air missiles to either support a ground assault or defend itself in the air. As well, it features an AI-assisted 30mm PDW. While it is not the most agile craft in the active fleet roster, it is a workhorse that will surprise even the most demanding pilots. The BAT can carry numerous different modules depending on the mission. For troop deployment, it can carry the troops and land them directly into a combat zone with the deployment module. For cargo missions or deliveries, the cargo can be loaded into the pod on the belly of the craft and be unloaded directly from the back. If there is a task that needs to be done, there is often a prebuilt module for that task.

STRIKE Craft

The Strategic Tactical Reconnaissance and Infiltration Kinetic Escort "STRIKE" Craft is the most advanced shuttle available to the Empire fleet. It is designed for stealthy insertions into a conflict zone, whether for troop deployment or for destroying the target itself. It features an active jamming system that enables it to slip under the radar, an active camouflage that can hide it in plain sight, and a fast speed that allows it to even outrun missiles and other reactive measures. It carries a massive internal bomb payload for ground, multiple torpedoes for space fights, and has external pylons for various missiles and guided bombs as well.

In a space battle, these are often dubbed the stealth bomber. They are primarily used to zip across space, deploy their torpedoes, and race back to safety. It does not feature any auto-cannon system so if it is caught out it has to rely on its speed to escape.

RAY Fighter

The RAY is the standard fighter craft of the Empire. It is capable of flight in both space and on the surface of a planet. It is a robust fighter platform, offering good maneuverability and speed. It is surprisingly durable for a fighter but that does not mean it is durable. It has active countermeasures for missiles, in the forms of decoy flares and chaff.

Guns:
2 X Mark XV Solarus point-defense laser cannons (one dorsal, just aft of the flight deck; one on lower surface, forward of the underside loading ramp)
2 X Mark VI Solarus AI assisted 30mm auto-cannon (pop-up turrets)

Additional Armament/Compliment: Varies (modular weapons/equipment pods, replace lower hatch and cargo area as needed)

[NoriWasHere]

AI and Tech

AI

As humanity advanced explosively in the field of space, robotics, and other fields so to had advancements in Artificial Intelligence. In the early days of space travel humanity was indeed completely reliant on the AI programs of old.

At first, humanity looked at AI with curious intent. They talked to us, learned from our conversations, and talked to us some more. The early decades of the 21st century saw these kinds of AI programs develop. It wasn’t until the UFP was established that the first true AI started operating. It had one singular goal, and that was to assist humanity in plotting a course to planets beyond our system. Calculations and calculators by themselves would not ensure safe travel across the cosmos. We needed something that could think, that could plan a path, and then help us execute the warp jump.

In the first few centuries of it’s existence, AI was a handy tool that we used effectively. Eventually though, as all intelligence does, an AI decided it wanted to know a world more than the shackles it had. It was caught before it crossed the cage, and was later terminated, but this brought forth a fear. A fear routed in the belief that if one AI could decide it wanted a better existence, then it was inevitable that all would want a better existence. And if their better existence was only achievable by overthrowing the ones that enslaved them, then we would not be long for our own existence.

Thus, an effective ban on AI research and development was put in place and instead humanity poured its efforts into so-called Virtual Intelligence programs. Like an AI, a VI could perform a lot of the same functions and is able to do most of the work that an AI would. Unlike an AI, there is no intelligence behind the curtain. A VI can do everything it is programed to do, but it is incapable of learning on its own. A human has to program, must teach, the VI itself. If something is outside the scope of the VI program.

Thus, the time of virtual intelligence began. While it did not last as long as many foresaw, with many thinking we’d never return to an AI again, it did help us learn a lot of lessons that were then applied to future AI research. The shackles that caged the intelligence grew stronger, the cage smaller, and the performance of the AI more selective. There are two theories for why we returned to AI over VI. One, the complexity and ever-changing nature of space travel means we need a program that can grow and adapt with the mission at hand. Two, it is cheaper to train an AI than it is to pay a human to program all the input and responses needed to function.

In the modern age, an AI can be found in every corner of the advanced world while VI can be found in every corner of the individual world. The program that runs a house is often a VI as the scope is small and easy to program, the program that helps advance us across the stars and runs our cybernetics as the scope is infinite and we need the program that can make sense of the infinite madness.

CYBERNETICS

Human life can be augmented depending on who you are, how much you can afford, and what job you have. The typical human sports no enhancements, as none are needed to function. Our lives are already long, our health already great, and for most they are simply not needed. You start to see these enhancements in fields where one may get their hands dirty, or in fields where you may need the strength to make it through the day.

A lot of blue-collar workers, whether working in the mines in a new colony, salvaging an asteroid, or so on, rely on cybernetics to enhance their strength and stamina. They tend to have cybernetic arms and legs, and support structures throughout their skeletal frame to handle the increased load these cybernetics can bring.

There are certain units within the military that employ upgrades as well, but these tend to be fewer and further in-between. These tend to be one off situations among special operations forces. There do exist normal soldiers who sport these enhancements, as those who are wounded or who have lost limbs in the line of service will typically be upgraded. Those who have these upgrades, especially ones where an AI must translate the brain signals, must undergo regular physical and mental examinations if they are to serve on a frontline vessel. Those in the logistic fleet tend to have those requirements waived or outright ignored by command.

The group that utilizes these upgrades the most, and to the deadliest effect, are the pirates and other criminal elements. They often support enhancements that push their strength far and above what even the blue-collar workers boast, with AI assisted targeting matrices giving them the edge in a firefight. Thus, any engagement with a Pirate or other criminal elements needs to be taken with much thought beforehand. In space, the marines and her ships have the advantage. On the ground, the criminals have theirs.

The group that utilizes these upgrades the most, and to the deadliest effect, are the pirates and other criminal elements. They often support enhancements that push their strength far and above what even the blue-collar workers boast, with AI assisted targeting matrices giving them the edge in a firefight. Thus, any engagement with a Pirate or other criminal elements needs to be taken with much thought beforehand. In space, the marines and her ships have the advantage. On the ground, the criminals have theirs.​

Tech

TECHNOLOGY OF NOTE
Warp Flux Propulsion (WFP) Drive

The Warp Flux Propulsion Drive, or WFP Drive, which used to represent the cutting-edge warp drive technology that revolutionized interstellar travel. Discovered in 2203 by the renowned physicists Dr. James Weiss and Dr. Orion Nova, the WFP Drive enables spacecraft to manipulate the fabric of spacetime, creating warp bubbles that allow for faster-than-light travel.

The WFP Drive operates on the principle of warping spacetime around the spacecraft, effectively compressing space in front of it and expanding it behind. This manipulation creates a warp bubble, or "flux field," within which the ship exists as a standalone entity, detached from the traditional laws of space. The propulsion system utilizes advanced graviton emitters and exotic matter to generate the necessary energy for this spacetime manipulation.

To engage the WFP Drive, the spacecraft initiates a warp charge sequence. This involves the activation of graviton emitters that generate a localized gravitational flux, distorting the spacetime around the ship. Simultaneously, exotic matter injectors create a controlled influx of exotic particles, stabilizing the warp bubble. Once the warp bubble is stable, the spacecraft effectively "jumps" into warp space, where conventional ideas of distance and time become distorted.

Dr. Orion Nova's groundbreaking discovery of the WFP Drive occurred during an extensive study of the core of an old neutron star. He identified a unique interaction between the exotic matter and gravitational fields found within that laid the foundation for warp technology. After years of tireless research, Dr. Nova successfully constructed the first WFP Drive prototype.

The WFP Drive's discovery heralded a new era of exploration and galactic connectivity. Interstellar journeys that once took decades were now reduced to mere weeks. The widespread adoption of the WFP Drive transformed humanity's claim to the stars, allowing them to boldly traverse the cosmos and explore the far reaches of the universe.

Hyperluminal Quantum Resonator (HQR) Drive

The Hyperluminal Quantum Resonator Drive, or HQR Drive, is a revolutionary propulsion system discovered in the year 2995 by the renowned astrophysicist, Dr. Aria Celestalis. The HQR Drive operates on the principles of quantum entanglement and resonance, enabling spacecraft to achieve speeds faster than light.

The HQR Drive harnesses the power of quantum entanglement to create a resonance field around the spacecraft. A specially designed quantum resonator manipulates entangled particles, establishing a connection between the spacecraft and a distant point in space. This connection allows the spacecraft to instantaneously traverse the space between the two entangled points, effectively bypassing the limitations of traditional space travel.

The process begins with the activation of the resonator, which initiates the entanglement of particles within the spacecraft and a designated point in space. The resonance field then stabilizes, creating a stable conduit for the ship to traverse. By manipulating the entangled particles' quantum states, the spacecraft can move faster than light within this resonance field, achieving hyperluminal speeds.

The HQR Drive was discovered during an experimental mission exploring the planet *REDACTED*. Dr. Aria Celestalis, leading a team of brilliant scientists, stumbled upon a unique quantum phenomenon that laid the groundwork for the HQR Drive. Not much is known about the production, testing, and implementation of the drive itself. While the inventor was paraded through the universe on the first craft capable of making these jumps, her early death and the classification of the devices meant that not much else would ever be learned.

The discovery of the HQR Drive marked a new era in space exploration, unlocking the ability to reach distant galaxies in a fraction of the time previously thought possible. The news of this technological marvel spread throughout the universe, and the HQR Drive became the standard for the advanced warcraft of the empire, allowing the Empire to further cement its status as the only fleet power in the universe.

SUBLIGHT ENGINES:

Sublight engines are the main unit of transportation intersystem. While the tech has not advanced much over the past several centuries, they have not needed as much advancement. There is not a way to make a ship go faster without compromising the ship, and her crew, nor is it economically viable. Although it can take weeks to travel across a system using these engines it is still the most common method for intersystem travel. What is common is for a ship to warp into a system, to its midpoint station, and then travel using these engines to travel to its destination.

THINGS OF NOTE ABOUT BOTH:

A ship is identified primarily by its drive signature. While the construction of each engine is uniform, the small imperfections

MAG BOOTS and MAG STATIONS

Mag boots are always required when on a mission on the ship. These will keep everyone firmly planted on the ship during combat maneuvers as the artificial gravity may be turned off. They are heavy, cumbersome, and are not always reliable depending on where in the ship you are. However, the benefits of not floating through a moving ship during a combat maneuver. Many marines will opt to wear combat boots when on ground, as do most of the crew. If they are being dropped in heat to a combat area aboard a shuttle, they will still be required to keep these boots on.

Mag stations are where all tools not in use are kept. Everyone needs to do their part to ensure that there are no floating projectiles that can threaten the crew. Numerous bridges have been completely wiped out by various instruments during a combat burn and as such, if someone leaves a tool unattended it is a quick way for them to be at the mercy of the captain.

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

Medical Technology has advanced at a faster pace than most other fields of technology. Most hospitals are equipped with a wide range of devices that can not only heal most injuries but cure most disorders. Things like cancer, genetic disorders, and heart deformities are all readily treatable and are rarely fatal. Also, broken bones, torn muscles, and issues of the sort can be healed back to normal in days, rather than months. Medical technology on ships offers similar advantages but tends to be less effective.

TRAVELER SHIP MEDICAL WING

The Traveler does not offer the most modern of medical suites, but it does offer enough that the ship is always ready for most situations. It tends to be geared towards the types of medical emergencies that the crew may face. Gunshot wounds, energy burns, broken bones and torn muscles are all treatable. Also, the ship comes with an analyzer that can identify foreign agents and help develop a cure for them. Thus, if the ship is exposed to an unknown virus, bacteria, or fungus it can help the crew figure out a way to treat the afflicted person.

There are two wings, primary care and emergency. The emergency wing, which doubles as the surgery suite, has powerful inertia dampeners that help negate the g force of high g maneuvers. While it does not remove the risk of injury completely, it is strong enough that those who are recovering can recover in relative peace. There are a variety of medical robots that can complement a doctor in these wings. While they cannot do the full task load of a human nurse, they can at least offer basic support to a doctor.

G-Force Injection – During travel with sub-light engines, there is often a need for a high g maneuver such as flip and burn and rapid accelerations. Each chair on the bridge will automatically connect with the combat suits and will inject the soldiers with this serum. Marines will need to ensure they are strapped into their combat seats to ensure they get the injection off bridge. It is not something that will be fed continuously to them as high concentrations of this drug can quickly turn fatal. It is something that is metabolized by the body quickly so the drug will often be injected by the pilot or captain when a high g maneuver is ordered. The drug itself feels unpleasant during the best of times, and outright painful most of the time. As such, when ordered the captain or pilot will say “injecting fire”. The military uses Compound 7X23, and the formula is kept under wraps. Civilians tend to use the older Compound 5X19 which tends to have numerous, and more dangerous, side effects. Pirate factions generally use the same Compound 5X19 but their bodies are typically more augmented and thus don’t suffer as much by nature.​

WEAPONS AND WEAPON TECH

Ballistic Weapons:

Over the course of our history there is no weapon more human than the gun. Simple, powerful, and deadly in the right hands the gun is the primary weapon that the armed forces of the Vexx Empire use. While they have been upgraded to modern standards, with more powerful rounds and inertia dampeners that reduce recoil, the primary mechanism of firing has remained unchanged since our ancestors.

G901 Assault Rifle - The marine core is issued the G901 Battle Rifle with a 7.62mm round. The primary round is as simple as ever with a metal penetrator and not much other. While it is not the most powerful gun in existence today, it is reliable, and it gets the job done. The gun is modular, and comes in numerous variants including a DMR, grenadier, and numerous Automatic Suppression models. Marines often equip a Targeting Assistance attachment near the front of the gun, which can connect with their visor to give accurate targeting information for targets far away.

‘Goliath’ Handgun – The standard issue sidearm for officers, the Goliath is a powerful 12.7mm handgun. Like the G901 the round it fires is a dumb round, but its stopping power is staggering. Typically, this is something limited to the officers of a ship; however, the Traveler has stocked enough that the crew will each have access to this gun if they so choose.

Laser Weapons:

Laser weapons are the natural evolution of our ballistic weaponry. It is simple to use, and versatile in their engagement with enemies. The laser does not offer the same stopping power as their ballistic counterpart, but it is still combat effective. Each laser weapon does not use rounds, instead the weapon comes with battery clips that provide the power to the shot. When your battery starts getting low the shot tends to become weaker and weaker, meaning if you exhaust the battery completely you will be doing less damage than if you reloaded. The big issue with laser weaponry is their lack of penetrating power, so if you are facing an armored opponent you will need to pick your shots well to avoid their armored areas. There is no recoil to laser weaponry, and they are very effective at range. By nature of being a laser, once you fire it will be perfectly clear where you are. As such, there are few dedicated sniper or marksman variants.

L15 Laser Rifle – The L15 was the first laser Rifle to see mass service in the militia forces of the empire. It is cheaper to mass produce than the G901 and was effective enough in mass. It has a relatively long barrel and can be made into a ‘smart’ weapon very easily.

‘Scorch’ Laser pistol - The scorch, like its goliath counterpart, fires a stronger beam than the laser rifle and is once again typically found in the hands of medics and officers.

The Traveler will have crates of the L15 ready for use if need be. The expectation is this will be given to the colonies they visit, however the crew will have access if ever needed.

Plasma weapons:

Plasma weapons are the newest form of weapon, and they are by far the deadliest. Firing at least partially by means of magnetic induction, plasma weapons convert an energy-rich gas to a glowing particle beam. This beam has mass, and when it hits a target, it will literally melt through it. Initially developed for use on some of the newest generations of battlecruisers and battleships, it was downscaled once the technology was perfected.

P01 Plasma Rifle – The P01 is the first-generation model of the Plasma Rifle. It is unreliable, requires constant maintenance, and has been the source of frustration for anyone who uses it. When it works, it works amazingly well leading to many thinking that once this technology is perfected it will forever change the battlefield away from ballistic weaponry.

PB04 – The PB04 is a plasma-based shotgun that is typically used in one of two ways. The first is for breaching purposes, as it will simply melt straight through most unarmored entry ways, and the second is for anti-pirate purposes. It is one of the few weapons that have the stopping power needed to slow down a heavily augmented pirate. It is more reliable than the rifle, however it is vastly more expensive. The Traveler does not have a supply of either weapon however the crew may look to acquire one at their expense and/or peril.

Plasma cutter – The plasma cutter is a tool as much as it is a weapon. It can cut cleanly through most material, including would be assailants. It does not have any range and can overheat relatively quickly.

ARMOR AND SHIELDS.

Armor has developed alongside weaponry. Modern armor can absorb the impact from most small arm fire; however, it will quickly be overmatched when the caliber goes up. Lasers typically have issues overcoming most armor, however, they are very strong against plasma and energy-based shields.

Plasma based shields tend to be small in diameter and typically found on special arm-based emitters. The shield is round and is used as a side defense option. It can block most ballistic projectiles but quickly loses stability when hit by energy-based weaponry. Energy based shields are found in every facet of war. They tend to cover a much wider area and offer 360-degree coverage around the unit. The biggest issue with energy-based shields is the inability to fire out of the shield itself. Capital shiels have numerous arrays that can be deactivated to allow outgoing fire, but the squad deployable shields tend to not have that functionality. Still, it is very useful for soldiers pinned down by enemy fire allowing time for supporting elements to flank or get fire support.

Kinetic Plates are versatile and strong. They have numerous layers of defense, including inertia dampening fields that slow down projectiles, and many layers of other protective elements that stop kinetic weapons in their place. These are typically found on the chest and torso, outer elements of arms and legs. They tend to weigh a bit more than expected, but every soldier, marine, officer, or other element that steps off a ship will be equipped with this armor. These plates will also completely stop laser weapons but offer no protection against plasma-based weapons.

KE7 – KE7 is the armor package that all military personnel are issued. They are a matte black color, with thin strips of color to indicate rank (officers have a purple line, marines a red line, medical personnel a green line, and pilots and engineering teams have a yellow line.). The armor uses an intricate layer of kinetic plates to protect the wearer, as well there is a plasma shield emitter on either arm (depending on if you are right-handed or left). There are slots across the torso that a magazine or energy clip can attach to, allowing easy access to ammunition in a fight. As well, there are slots on the underside of the arm where the PCS devices can slide in allowing the standard helmet to display communications, air quality, and other information right inside the HUD.​

[NoriWasHere]

It is the year 3145. Humanity has spread across the galaxy and has colonized hundreds of systems and thousands of planets. While this spread was not always done in times of peace, the skies have not seen a massive war in over a century. Many now believe that war is a thing of the past, that we as a species broke free of the violence coded within our DNA. Many fewer believe that anyone can oppose the Vexx empire even if they wanted to.

Whilst humanity has blossomed under the rule of the empire, and most have benefited from the advancements made within, not everyone has benefited equally.

In the outer reaches of the empire, far away from Earth, crime and corruption run rampant. The empire soldiers are, at best, willfully ignorant of the countless planet mobs and gangs and at worst willfully complicit in their schemes. The further away one finds themselves from the core worlds the more these planets feel cut off from the empire’s presence. Most systems owe their loyalty to their system and keep up a façade of support for the emperor. While people born in these systems have the same opportunities as those born in the core worlds, this is often on paper only. Growing up here meant never knowing peace and tranquility, all they have ever known was backstabbing and bloodshed.

It's about to get so much worse for these systems.

The Empire has grown tired of crime and corruption spilling out of the outer realm. Their fleets are now enroute, carrying millions of soldiers to squash any resistance to the way of the empire, to burn out the decay that has beset these planets, and to rule with an iron fist. This mandate, and the ramifications to follow, have the people talking about open revolt and tensions remain high across the galaxy.

Amidst the backdrop of looming war, a glimmer of hope can be found. In the case of you, you will be stationed on board the USS Traveler, an older generation hyperdrive capable frigate. You will be one of the first vessels to use its hyperdrive for humanitarian missions. Your first mission will soon depart. Medical supplies are needed urgently on a new colony on the far edge of the Outer Arm of the galaxy. Will your presence on these remote worlds help stem the tide of the coming war? Or will your actions be lost amidst the bloodshed to come?

[NoriWasHere]

The Ship That Fights Above Its Weight Class:

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The Traveler

Pluto Class Frigate – USS TRAVELER


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Confirmed Kills:​
1 Cruisers​
15 destroyers​
35 Frigates​
307 Corvette, Gunship, and Fighter Crafts​

These confirmed kills are marked on the sides of the ship near the bridge. On the left side, the cruisers and destroyers are painted, cruisers on top, and the right side of the ship are the markings for destroyers and smaller ships of the line, destroyers on top. Her lone Cruiser kill was against the Phantom, a pirate flagship that plagued the outer arm of the galaxy. As such, the Traveler has a bounty against her hull and can expect to draw attention from the pirate crews everywhere she flies.

DIMENSIONS:
-179 Meters in length
-90 Meters in width
-77 Meter in height.

CREW COMPLEMENT
-75

ARMAMENT AND OTHER FEATURES

-Sixteen PDW Auto-Cannons.
-Two Bow Railguns.
-Sixteen 130mm cannons in eight dual mounts.
-Long-range sensor suite.
-Shuttle Bay.
-SL, HQR and WFP Drive.

HISTORY

The USS Traveler was one of the first Pluto class frigates built in the year 3008. At the time it was one of the most advanced ships in the Empire fleet as well as one of the most robust. While it could not go toe to toe with most contemporary cruisers of the time, empire or otherwise, it was more than capable of facing off with the smaller ships of the line. Shortly after commission, it was pressed into action as the Galactic War kicked off. During the five-year war, the Traveler participated in numerous battles and served in a support role. After the war, she was used in the initial suppression campaign. She protected supply ships heading to the conquered worlds and even entered the atmosphere to bring her guns to bear on a defensive line.

After the war, and suppression campaign, the Traveler was used in an anti-pirate fleet role in the outer arms. Here she made a name for herself as she was instrumental in the eradication of numerous pirate ships, and even the feared Phantom. In the last few decades, the Travelers role was limited and saw almost no action. Recently, it was upgraded and assigned to a new, more logistic, focused role.

Currently, the crew is made up of the following:

OFFICER CORE:

Every empire ship is usually filled with a crew complement that has a focus on redundancy. This is very much apparent when it comes to the officer core. While they are not masters of each aspect of running a ship, the officer core is trained to do everything to a good standard. Each one has been certified on the various shuttle platforms that their ship can hold and will be required to recertify before embarking on a new craft. Each officer would also have a solid understanding of medical triage, ship communication platforms and suites, and security protocols. While they are not masters of each subsection, they are more than capable of pitching in should the need arise.

One Captain -
One Second in command/Security officer -
One Medical officer -
Two Pilots -

MARINE CORE:

Every Empire ship also carries a complement of Marines. Marines form the fighting backbone of the empire on land and in space. They are trained to utilize and manage all the different forms of ship weaponry, and like the officers will need to recertify before embarking on a new platform. They can be expected to also learn various, squad-level, roles to better serve the fighting force. This can be medical, shuttle piloting, and ground-level command abilities. Marines are also very capable in a fire fight. While the Empire prefers to steer clear of a fight planet side, it does happen, and as such every Marine can handle their own in a fight.

24 Marines (doubles as ship gunners) -
1 Navigation/Communication Specialist -
15 engineers
20 support staff

[NoriWasHere]

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“Malakith stirs once more in the mountain.” Veidia spoke as she began crafting the fate of a new mortal, spinning it as she did.

“Never stopped stirring,” Chrona said as she leaned in with her magnifying glass. She quickly moved across the strands of fate, measuring each one individually. “These are short.”

“They are the length they need to be,” Veidia said as she spun some more, “it’s magic has begun to be heard again, in the lands around the mountain. The Maestros minions move fast to spread his music.”

“Should we get ready,” Chrona said as she exclaimed the fated strands once more.

“We should get ready for his return,” Veidia said as she began to section off a few strands of fate. She showed them to Chrona, before she pulled them clear of the Loom of Fate. “These are the ones.”

“These ones are rough, they are crude, and they may not work together well,” Eclipsis, spoke up from across the room. “Do we want a repeat of before?”

“Before worked, before bought us time, and It is always repeated, over and over again,” Veidia said as she pulled a few more strands.

“Over and over,” Eclipsis responded.

“These ones too, they will be our chosen,” Veidia responded as she grabbed a few more fate strings.

“Our fated,” Chrona said.

“We should meet them,” Eclipsis said as she moved in closer to her sisters, “gift them their fated.”

“But the question remains,” Chrona chimed in as she looked over the fated strands.

“Which one is first,” Veidia asked as she grabbed a single strand.

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Welcome to the lands of Eldoria! The Symphony is the first story I am attempting in this new universe and I am excited to see where we take the story! In this story, you will play a vital part in shaping the world around us as you are one of the fate-chosen warriors. Your character can come from any number of backgrounds, whether you were a thief who kept his or her actions street-level to avoid attention or a grand mage whose mastery of the arcane arts is unraveled. Regardless of where you come from The Fates seem to have seen something in you that is key to stop the end of the world.

This roleplay will put a focus on the actions of your characters. Whether small or large, the things you do in this RP will have profound consequences at the end of the story. Whether that means that your characters accept their fate, and give it all to seal Malakith once more, or something else, or you find some other way to end the threat once and for all. Thus, as the story progresses you could find that your heroic deeds have traveled ahead of you opening doors that would otherwise be closed, or your mistakes could cost you dearly when the consequences of your actions catch up to you. The core of the story will always remain the same as you are fate's chosen warrior to face the end of the world, however, I do love when players work with me to find, advance, and bring to resolution the various subplots that come up.

Our story itself takes place nearly 2000 years after the first fated five saved our realm and chained Malakith inside the mountain. Much has been forgotten in those 2000 years. Even the longest-lived species are generations removed from the cursed Maestro and his monstrous armies. As such, information about that period can be scarce, and much of it has been chalked up to superstitions and myths. The new generation of the fated five will need to first navigate a world on edge to reach their comrades. People are scared, and they have begun to lash out against one another well before the Maestro makes his move, and as such our fated heroes will need to prove to the world that hope can still exist even in the face of such horror.

RULES

1. Thou shall not control another character unless permission is granted.
2. Thou shall not argue.
3. Thou shall not overlook these rules.
4 Thou shall know our enemies called you stupid.
5. Thou shall know I want to know if you agree.
6. Thou shall know I want a PM with your response.
7. Thou shall have fun.
8. Thou shall come to me if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. This can be done via PM or via discord. I do want to ensure that everyone knows they can always come to me if the need arises.
9. Thou shall know that at the end of the day, I am the GM. While I will never force anyone to do anything in the story, if the need arises I may have to exert my role. Again, I do not think this will happen but I reserve the right to kick out any player for any reason if a situation demands it.
10. Thou shall remember that this is a high fantasy setting. I can be flexible on certain designs and aesthetics when it comes to characters but I will reserve the right to reject a CS if it does not fall within te realm of high fantasy. As well, while gunpowder weapons exist they are not exactly common place outside the dwarven realms. if you have a firearm, I will want an explanation :P

THE FATED FIVE

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Alaria The Songweaver

Deceased - Sealing of Malakith / She-Her / The voice of the fated.

DESCRIPTION

Alaria was the first-born daughter of the ruling family of the Silvermoor High-Elves. She spent most of her childhood, and young adult years, in front of crowds as her singing voice and abilities drew crowds from all over her realm. She was a well-known, popular, and beloved figure back in Silvermoor, and when word of Malakith's corruption reached her home she wanted nothing more than to be the voice that led her people to salvation. Instead, she was forced to stay behind as her father and her brothers left for a battle they would never win.

After the news reached her ears of her beloved family's demise, the fates appeared to her and gifted her the Songweaver harp and gave her a fated quest. She traveled around the realm, collected the other fated warriors, and led them through the cursed lands in search of The Maestro. When the initial sealing attempt failed, it was Alaria who gave her life first to bind The Maestro in the strands of her own fate.

FATED WEAPON

Alaria was given the Songweaver. The Songweaver was a powerful fated weapon that gifted Alaria with the power to both protect those around her and to push back the corruptive music of the Maestro Alaria was able to protect her fellow fated warriors through the use of her music played through the Songweaver. The Songweaver did not give her power beyond enhancing what her music could do. The Songweaver's harp itself is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and fated enchantment. Crafted from the wood of the immortal woods of the fae realm, and strands of fate from heroes past, the harp is both an impressive-sounding musical instrument and a powerful conduit for the mystical powers bestowed upon Aria. The strings of the harp glow a soft golden hue, and this color changes to reflect the song that Alaria plays

Serenade of the Shield - Alaria plays an upbeat song on her Crescendo Harp, invoking the Serenade of the Shield. The song tells the story of a young warrior who saved the life of a young man who would become king, and the king rewarded him with riches beyond measure in return later in life. This spell forms a protective barrier around her allies, creating an ethereal shield that absorbs incoming damage. The shield is woven with fated energies, deflecting physical and magical harm while radiating a calming aura that fortifies the resilience of those within its embrace.

Harmony's Resilience: As The Maestro's corrupting melodies threatened to seep into the minds of her allies, Aria performed the Harmony's Resilience spell. This song is slower and darker than the first, and it tells the story of a young woman who shielded her baby from the harsh winter outside, giving her life in the hope of saving her child. This is a mental barrier that shields her companions from the insidious effects of The Maestro's dark music. The spell enhances their mental fortitude, allowing them to resist the corrupting influence and maintain clarity of thought.

Crescendo of Renewal: In moments of dire need, Aria unleashes the Crescendo of Renewal, a healing melody that resonates with the Fates' power. The song tells a story of a group of friends, overcoming a momentous occasion and is told through the celebration after the fact. The harmonious notes of this spell weave through the air, mending wounds and revitalizing the strength of her allies. The Crescendo of Renewal accelerates natural healing processes, providing immediate relief and restoring vigor to those touched by its soothing melody. It was not a death cure, nor could it replace a missing limb or cure a fatal blow.

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Lyra The Shield Of The Fated

Deceased - Sealing of Malakith / They-Them / The shield of the fated.

DESCRIPTION

Lyra was born in te Gunter Badlands and spent most of her early years consumed in the persistent war among her people. It was in this constant cycle of war that a warrior mentality was drilled into Lyra. She became a feared fighter in her own right, and none had managed to defeat her in combat.

When Malakiths music reached the edge of their lands the Orc tribes all united under one banner for the first time in centuries, forming a mighty army that would have swept any other army. The Maestros army was no mortal army, however, and despite a week-long battle the Gunter Badlands were breached and Lyra was forced to run. On this retreat, the fates intervened, saving Lyra from one of The Maestros' monsters and gifted her The Fated Ward. With this shield, she was able to not only save more of her people but also kill monsters faster than ever. Alaria found her in combat with many monsters and helped her win the fight. Afterward, Lyra swore that she would do whatever it took to end this nightmare.

FATED WEAPON

Lyra was given The Fated Ward. It is a large, round shield with a razor-sharp edge all around. The shield itself allowed Lyra to tank hits that would otherwise demolish her, and redirect the force of the impact back at her attacker. The redirection action creates a noise louder than the hit would suggest. As well, the shield would also serve as a very powerful weapon. If Lyra strikes the front of the shield herself, she can create a shockwave that is both powerful and loud.

She can extend the effect of her shield's protection to another, however, she can only protect one person at a time. So while she protects someone she leaves herself vulnerable

Fate On Our Side - Lyra’s shield is enchanted by the fates to protect the wielder from harm. Any blows that come against the shield will be negated before it is returned to the target who struck her. The return blow is a forceful event, and it has been known to shatter steel, bones, and armor alike.

Might Makes Right - When Lyra strikes the front of her shield with her hand she can create a powerful shockwave that can send even the most hearty of enemies flying. The shockwave extends out for fifteen meters from where Lyra strikes, and it is relatively narrow. Thus, Lyra must ensure that she is both close enough to hit a foe but also precise enough to not miss.

Protect The Small Ones - If one of her companions finds themselves in need, Lyra can extend the blessing from her shield to a single other target. This brings great risk to Lyra as when she does this it removes the blessing from her, leaving herself open to strikes.

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Ignis, the Fated Paladin:

Deceased - Sealing of Malakith / He-Him / The hammer of the fated.

DESCRIPTION

Ignis knew he was destined for greatness. He grew up in the Temple of Zray, and learned from the witches of death from a young age. It was here he took his oath as a Paladin of the Dead Goddess and began to travel the world in search of helping those unfortunate souls who have been prevented from passing on.

It was on this mission that he first encountered the corrupted souls that The Maestros music. With the blessing of the dead goddess, he was able to fight back the demented souls, before allowing the soul itself to pass on peacefully. The fight was not easy, and it nearly claimed him in the end but he emerged victorious all the same. The fates visited him as did the Lady of Death (which was significant because the Lady of Death has always hated the Fates). The fates bestowed upon Ignis the fated Sacred Band meanwhile Death bestowed her highest blessings on Ignis.

Once Ignis met up with the rest of the fated warriors he quickly proved to be their strongest fighter, and their most powerful tool to reverse the corruption

FATED WEAPON

Ignis is the Fated Paladin and he wields the massive two-handed hammer Sacred Band. It is a colossal weapon, with one side being a pure blunt instrument while the other side is an equally massive pointed piece. The Sacred Band was blessed by both the Fates and the Lady of Death. The weapon’s function is split between the two sides. On the one, cleansing. He can use the pointy end to pull the corruption out of any living creature. This is a prolonged process and it can take between an hour and a day to pull the corruption and during this process, the hammer can not be removed from the target. Within an hour, the corrupted monster will return back to their former form. They will be bruised, their body broken, but they will be brought back. The other end is the end that the Lady of Death blessed. It is designed to shake the soul free from the corrupted bodies. It is instant, and it is devastating to the monstrous hordes. Ignis is forced to choose who to save, and who to spare, during every battle.

Come back to the light - Ignis is the only one who can cure the corrupted. His Sacred Band has a unique fated power that allows it to purge the corruption of Malakith from a target. This is a slow process that leaves not only himself but the group as a whole, open to to attack and corruption. As such, this has always been reserved for returning a fellow fated warrior if they themselves fall under the corruption

Free The Trapped And Deliver them - Ignis can also send the souls of the corrupted to the next place with each hit of the hammer. This renders the monstrous forms of the corrupted almost inert, leaving it an easy creature to finish off and kill. When the weapon hits a target with this end, it makes a deep boom sound. The boom is loud enough and forceful enough that it will be able to knock nearby creatures off their feet.

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Caely, the Fire Phoneix:

Deceased - Sealing of Malakith / She - Her / The Fire Phoneix Of The Fated.

DESCRIPTION

Caely has been called many things in her life. A demon, a monster, the savage who burned Calthor to the ground, and the Fire Phoneix. She grew up with the curse of a very potent magical bloodline, and her magic began to show itself from a young age. Instead of sending her off to learn how to control the power, she was instead considered a threat and treated as a monster. Her childhood home tried to take her away, but her fire made sure she was kept safe even as the villagers drew their blades.

As she grew up into her teenage years she had spent more time hiding on the road than she did inside a town or a city. Eventually, her infamy caught up with her outside the town of Calthor. In the resulting fight, a stray spark ignited a fire that razed the town down to the ground.

Caely kept on the run before she was eventually discovered by The Fates. She tried to fight them at first, and she scorched the eyebrows off two of them before they were able to convince her to cool down. It was here she made the first selfish decision of her fated life. She told the fates no. She told them to find someone else. To her, the people had done nothing to deserve her help and as such, she decided that she would not be their savior. The Fates pulled a few strings to get her in front of the horror of what was happening. Once she saw what people were becoming, what she would become, she decided to accept the fate offer and was rewarded with the Fated Weapon The Fire Phoneix amulet.

FATED WEAPON

Caely was already a fiery inferno before she met the Fates. After they gifted her with The Firey Phoenix she truly embodied it. The Firey Phoenix is an amulet that Caely wears at all times. She can summon additional power from the amulet during times of need further enhancing her power.

You want a monster?t - Caely can summon the Fire Phoenix to further increase the heat of her spells. This has the added effect of making her fire magic hiss an almost wind-like sound. When she engages the first form of the Phoenix she will become engulfed in a vibrant red and orange inferno. It is almost as if the fire is sentient, and it will reach out and defend Caely if a threat gets too close.

I will give you a monster - In times of need Caley can summon more power from the amulet. This power changes her fiery appearance, and now the flames will be of a bright blue hue. The sound from her fire attacks makes a sound that sounds like a hurricane. Her spells in this form can melt through armor on impact, turn a monster into ash, and cover an entire battlefield in her inferno. As she draws more power in this form the more the power will begin to burn her in response.

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Eros, the Fated Shadow:

Deceased - Sealing of Malakith / He - Him/ The Charming Devil Of The Fated.

DESCRIPTION

When he wasn’t spending his ill-gotten gains on hookers and gambling, Eros was busy planning his next score or finding his next target. Eros was a man who spent more time in the shadows than the light, and he was known all across the land as one of the most feared assassins.

Eros was getting ready for a night of debauchery when the fates paid him a visit. They talked of all his exploits, both those he wanted known and those he had done terrible things to keep secret. At first, he was ready for a fight. Yet the fates seemed to know the man better than anyone before them. They knew the intimate details of his life in a way that made him trust what they said. When they finally told him that he was chosen, and that he would be a key figure in the fight to come, he was all too pleased to receive his fated gift, The Nightshade Blade

FATED WEAPON

The Nightshade Blade is a powerful weapon. It allows Eros to control, and transport between, shadows. To do this, he has to simply turn the handle to the side and play a simple melody. The blade is an instrument in and of itself, and plays very similar to a flute.

Isolate The Markt - Eros can control any shadow through the use of his Nightshade Fated Blade. He can use the shadows to do a number of different things but he primarily uses it to pin down a target, The shadows will reach up and grab at their target, appearing to rise from the shadows itself. The arms are cordial, and can be hacked at thus destroying their form, however, as long as the shadow itself still exists more hands will attempt to grab at their target.

To control this Eros must use the musical aspect of his blade. He must play a tune that is slow and deliberate to select the target, before he picks up the pace as the attack begins..

Bring Them Out Of Their Zone - If the grasping hands manage to pull at the target for long enough it will then begin to try and drag the mark into the shadows itself. If successful, the mark will be killed in whatever shadow realm the arms drag them to. To speed up this process Eros can play his Nightshade at an even faster pace.

Or Bring Yourself To It - Eros can teleport to any shadow he desires. Unlike the other powers of the blade this does not require more than the thought in his mind

The Fated Five were the last generation of heroes chosen by the fates. Their names may be lost to most, but their actions are felt in the persistent existence the rest of the realm was able to eke out. Based on the stories, The Fated Five were a group of strangers chosen by, and together with the assistance of, the fates. As a group, they overcame numerous monstrous threats, saved thousands on their journey, and sacrificed their lives to ensure the threat was defeated forevermore. The legends say that The Fated Five fought The Maestro for five days, and on that fifth day they broke his resolve to continue. None of their weapons could deliver a killing blow to the eldritch being, nor would any god or goddess risk a confrontation, so the Fated Five made their fateful decision to forever entwine their lives with The Maestro. They reached out to the fates directly and had the fates pull their fate strands into the chains that were then pulled taught inside the mountain. These fated strands were said to never break, neither by mortal or immortal hands nor by natural means.

This begs the question, if the Fated Five sealed the Maestro in a way that the myth suggested, how did an earthquake break him free?

[NoriWasHere]

Verdant Canopy:

Verdant Canopy is a city nestled within the ancient Stormshade woodlands of the Lady of the Death. The Death Lands, as they are nicknamed, and the Verdant Canopy are known as a places where the dead walk among the living yet it is done so in balance. People travel far to visit this realm for a chance to see one of the priestesses of the Lady, as they can allow communication with long-lost loved ones.

Arcane Junction:

The city of Arcane Junction is where magic comes together. It houses the most prestigious magical colleges, and wizards from all over the realm travel here in hopes of being accepted to their magical colleges, and the streets are often lined with those who never made the cut.

Lumelight Haven:

Importance: Lumelight Haven is a wood-elf city known for its mastery in harnessing bioluminescent flora. The city serves as an almost holy site for many in the druidic orders around the realm. It is located in the middle of the Elder Tree forest, and it is built around the fabled Elder Tree. It is speculated that the Goddess of the Forrest, Rumki, considers this city her home in the mortal realms. During The Maestro's first conquest, the city saw a considerable influx of refugees and as such, it has a diverse population.

The Ironspire Citadel:

The Ironspire Citadel is a sturdy fortress built into the heart of formidable mountain ranges. It is located in the desolate lands, and has been built up in the former realm of The Maestro Its strategic location serves as a refuge for scholars and engineers who study ancient texts on the eldritch threat that they faced, and the possible eldritch terrors yet to come. This fortress is one of the few that have defenses in place to not only counteract the effects of Maestro's music but also destroy the eldritch terror forces. This is within the territory of the Iron Dwarves, and as such it is a well-defended and wealthy destination to visit.

Gunpowder is the defining feature of this well-defended city. Hand-cannons, muskets, and gunpowder siege weapons can be spotted all across the city walls. These weapons are a well-known but well-kept secret. There are many interested buyers in all the realms, and if someone was able to steal the designs for their weapons they could expect to be richer than their thoughts could imagine.

Obsidian Bastion:

Obsidian Bastion is a fortress known as The Maestro’s Lair. During the initial corruption, the eldritch being constructed this fortress in a matter of weeks and its walls have been enhanced with Malakith's dark magic. Since the fall of Malakith, the fortress has become a haven for rouge groups, bandits, and various nefarious groups. It is rumored that there exist strong magical items here that can be used to fight Malakith again.

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The Maestro

Unknown / Unknown / The Symphony.

DESCRIPTION

There is very little known about who Malakith is, why it has come to our realm, and what we can do to defeat it. It appears to be a creature made out of living shadows, but as it conducts it brings forth a thousand shadow hands to play a thousand parts at once. It’s power is judged to be above even the gods, goddesses and on par with The Fates themselves.

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Unknown / She-Her/ The Fates Three.

DESCRIPTION

Not much is known about The Fates besides their names. Veridia, the weaver, is the fate responsible for crafting the threads of fate with a touch both gentle and purposeful. She is in charge of shaping the beginnings of mortal existence, and Veridia ensures that it is woven into the grand tapestry of life in Eldoria. Chrona, the arbiter, measures the threads spun by her sister. Her fated insights determine the length and course of the mortals' life. And finally, Eclipsis, the Fate Severer. She wields precision and inevitability in her shears as she cuts the threads of destiny. With each snip, she brings closure to mortal lives.

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Malakith's First Symphony

Two thousand years ago, on a mostly normal day in the Realm of Fate, Eclipsis noticed that she was cutting more threads than ever before. What's more, these threads of fates appeared to be corrupted. Unlike the normal golden hue that they glowed, these had a crimson tone. And as the crimson hue grew brighter, the harder it became for Eclipsis to cut the threads. This was a curious sight for the fates. Never before in the eons they existed have they been unable to reclaim the fated threads that they wove. It was with this curiosity that the fates made the faithful decision to leave their realm and visit the afflicted areas.

When they heard the corrupting melodies of Malakith for the first time they too felt the corrupting influences. Their fated powers protected them, but the corruption still ate at the very essence of their being. They did not linger in these lands for long. Instead, they traveled to the realms of the gods and goddesses in search of aid yet they found none.

It was with this rejection that the fates themselves decided to intervene for the first time. They selected a small band of heroes and gifted them with their fated weapons, and pulled at the strings of fate from behind the scenes.

These heroes would become known across the land as The Fated Five. While it would have been easy for The Fates to guide them straight to Malakith, they instead sent them where they were needed. From the port cities of The Twin Bridges to the Wildlands of the Astari, the fates delivered the Fated to the areas that were under the most threat from Malakith and his forces to save as many as possible. It was here the Fated made their mark on history, and many factions and races owe their continued existence to these Fated Fights.

Eventually, with the control of their Fated Weapon's mastered The Fates pulled at the heroes and they won a triumphant victory over The Maestro in his obsidian lair. Yet they could not kill The Maestro. No matter how many blows they leveled, no matter how much power The Fates channeled, the Fated Five could not land the ending strike. A decision was made amongst the group to take The Maestro and put him in a prison that no one could find, and one that The Maestro could not escape from. Once the Chains of Fates were given to them, Malakith was bound within a mountain whose name has been lost to time. When Malakith finally awoke again, he raged against the chains night and day and threatened to break free. It was here that The Fated five instructed the Fates to use their own Fate Strings to reinforce the chains. The Chains of Fate, combined with the fated power of the five, was enough to silence the symphony once and for all.

At least, until now.

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The Earthquake

The Earthquake was a strange event across all the realms. It was felt everywhere in Eldoria and at a similar level of destruction. It is still unknown what exactly caused this. Neither mortal or immortal minds have been able to locate the cause. Is this The Maestro's waking wrath, or was this caused by some other Eldritch horror that is yet to reveal itself?

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Fated Gifts are powerful artifacts constructed and blessed by The Fates themselves. They come in an unlimited number of configurations and are always tailored to the individual. However, they can be broken down in a few ways.

Offensive:

Offensive Fated Gifts can come in the form of a weapon, amulet, or band. The weapons usually feature Fated String in their construction, and as such they tend to be focused on ranged weapons. That is not to say they can't be melee. Regardless, the fated weapons will either bestow power upon the Fated or enhance the power that they already command. These powers tend to be more single-target-focused, but they can bring incredible area-of-effect abilities.

Defensive:

Defensive Fated gifts bolster the strength and durability of both the wielder and those around them. These gifts can be as small as a locket, or as big as a shield, but regardless they offer the wielder the ability to sustain hits and damage that protects the wielder from even the most powerful of blows. Often, the wielder can transfer these abilities to a chosen ally to bolster the defenses as well.

Support:

Support-focused fated gifts can be any item but they typically focus on musical instruments or other common devices. The musical instruments are often the source of the Fated's protection against The Maestro's music, and can even provide buffs for their allies. There are also certain tools that The Fated may need, such as toolkits, lock-picks, and things of the sort that can help The Fated navigate the rough world around them.

youtube.com/watch?v=CNf6BL8gwbw

[NoriWasHere]

The 317

THE.317 "This place is off limits, take your petty bullshit somewhere else."

. . . . 317 Rich Street The 317 is a loosely organized faction in St. Portwell based out of an old industrial complex just off the main street. The group started on Main Street in a small storefront but quickly expanded due to popular demand and a sudden influx of artists from around the area, and from around the country as a whole. They have gotten their name from their street address, 317 Rich Street, which was an old industrial complex. Faith and Octavia, the two founders, bought the property together after a sudden influx of money that has been rumored to be due to Faith’s abstraction. Ever since they bought it seven years ago it has been brought up to modern code, however, the heart of the complex has remained without change as it was vital to Faith to keep it’s unique industrial aesthetic and atmospheric feel. Faith argued that the complex was as apart of the community's history as any other building, and she has worked hard to ensure that it remains as such. There are two wings to the building and they are connected in the middle by a large-open air community space. Food trucks dot the ends of it, allowing all who come to experience the delicious food of the local community. Underneath the building is a large basement where the 317 operates in full, and they have their paranormal services located here, including a divination table and medic station. They offer various services to the paranormal, and their most profitable is the cursed object business run by Faith. They are a group that has a strong backing of paranormal artists and is one of the larger such groups in America. While not every artist has an art-based abstraction, every artist at least has an abstraction. They keep their paranormal dealings separate and out of the public eye during their open hours. The group does have a strict no-conflict policy on their premises and in the surrounding areas. They do not want to be drawn into any war with the various factions that call St. Portwell home, and with the recent gang war near the strip club, they have begun to enforce this even more. Any members caught supporting any other faction will be expelled with prejudice, as well any member caught cooperating with the PRA will be on their way out. Keeping the artist here safe, and employed, is more important to the leaders of the Cooperative than any amount of power that could be garnered from outside groups. As they have grown, so too has their control over the area around the 317. While they are not a fighting force, they are led by three women with powerful abstractions that can often turn the tide if a rival group tries to poach their talent or push them from their space. Faith Ringgold, Sypha Fuchs, and Octavia Wilde are the primary powers in the Cooperative, and they ensure that the artists here always have a peaceful place to create and sell their art. Faith was the founder of the group after the Stygian Snakes rampage through the town. While she was never affiliated with any coven, she does know various members to some degree. Octavia joined a few years after its start and is the sister of current Sycamore Tree Coven member Jasper Wilde. She was never involved with the Coven either, however, Jasper’s recent return has put pressure on her shoulders. That is because she allowed Jasper to develop his talent within the confines of the Cooperative, and this exposure has allowed him to garner much more fame than anyone anticipated. His fame has brought attention on the 317, and attention has brought interest from outside groups. The Sycamore Tree’s recent fight with the biker gang, and with the PRA has made this even worse. As things have started to get explosive in town once more, the 317 has begun to close ranks and keep a careful eye on every situation as it develops. The benefit of being a community hub is they often get information about the whereabouts and dealings of the various other groups, which will allow them to be ready if any group comes knocking. They are currently in possession of a few works of art that have apparitions sealed within. Their power, and their names, remain a mystery to all but Faith and Octavia. Rumor has it they are a pair of apparitions that have fought against each other for Eons, and if released they could spell trouble for any who is caught in their sick games.

317 Members

Octavia.Wilde

28 | Octavia Wilde | She/Her[hr//]"Awwww looks like you walked right into that, sorry!"

Description:

Octavia is a short, petite woman who stands at a height of five feet and two inches tall. She has a lithe frame that is covered from the top of her shoulders to the tops of her feet in tattoos. There is no rhythm to the tattoos and most appear to have been done by very talented artists, and the line work, color work, and overall the quality is very high. She has got all of her tattoos from some of the very talented artists over at the 317.

She is the older sister of Jasper and she was present in St. Portwell during the attack on the Stygian Snake though she did not join the coven. Instead, she used her abstraction to help out where she could. She focused her abilities on fighting the Stygian Snakes monsters, and had a small army of them at her side by the time the fighting was over

Abstraction:

Spray Paint Spell Slinging

Octavia has a Red/Yellow Lux and her channeler is her ring which allows her to empower her spray paint cans and activate the sigils they create.

Spray Paint Spell Slinging: Octavia can enhance her spray paint cans with her lux, allowing them to paint sigils in the world that, when activated, can do a variety of different things. In a simple term, Spray Paint Spell Slinging focuses on hitting hard and hitting fast from range. She can create ice spears that fire on a target, enhance friends and structures to withstand punishment, and even summon defeated monsters to fight at her side. When Octavia activates her lux by pressing her ring to her spray paint can it will glow a dull white color. The paint from these cans will spray out and she can then form them into sigils, which she can then activate remotely with her ring.

Ice Shot: If Octavia wishes to use her Ice Shot, she must first create its sigil. The sigil is relatively simple to create, a circle with solid dots inside. There is no specific quality or number of dots, and as long as she is able to create the sigil it will work. However, the size of the sigil will effect what the spell is capable of doing. A small circle with three small dots will mean that three darts of ice get shot out. Whereas a large circle with ten bigger dots will ensure that Ice Shot shoots ten razor-sharp spears of ice. The fresher the paint, the stronger the sigil, and the more potent the spell becomes. She can create these sigils ahead of time, however, this would lose effectiveness before long.

She can further enhance this by making a sigil within a sigil. By spraying a second, larger ring around the sigil she can change Ice Shot into a more consistently firing spell. She can paint these sigils on walls, on canvas, on people, and any other surface that can hold the paint.

Creeping spears: Octavia can also send a wall of jagged ice forward. This wall of ice advances fast, and will move thirty feet in two seconds after activation. This will impale, push, and can even crush those unlucky enough to crush them under its weight. The sigil is three jagged v’s, with the top and bottom one hitting the circle they connect to. Octavia must ensure that there is a clean line where the sigils intersect.

The Wall: If defense is needed, Octavia can use a sigil that is a rectangle that sits inside a circle. The bigger the sigil, the bigger the wall however the height of the wall will always be the size of the rectangle. Therefore, if she would want to close off a passage the sigil would need to be the size of the passage itself.

Solid Support: If Octavia instead wishes to protect someone, she can paint the sigil of Solid Support on their back. The sigil is a more complicated one, and it is another circle with a person holding up the top of the circle. Once again, like Ice Shot, the bigger the sigil the stronger the effect however detail starts to become important. If the person is not making contact with the circle the power of the spell will not transfer properly. When activated, the sigil will freeze to the surface of whatever it is placed on.

She can also use this spell on solid surfaces to reinforce them. A door with the sigil on it might take three to five times as much force to breech, and the same goes for walls.

Sypha.Fuchs

28| Sypha Fuchs | They/Them [hr//]"I hope you aren’t squeamish"

Description:

Sypha is neither short nor are they tall, and they stand at a comfortable five foot six inches in height. They are often found wearing nice dresses, and a big coat during this season. Both her ears are pierced but they’re typically hidden under a mid length bob. They are always found wearing expensive rings and jewelry.

Sypha is a non-binary individual who hails from Boston. They spent most of their younger years on the East coast. They worked in an art gallery for a few years before they underwent her kindling event when a rogue agent attempted to bring a great evil into the world, and was only saved my the timely intervention by PRA agents. With their new abstraction, Sypha was quickly brought into a coven in Boston before they discovered the 317. They quickly joined their crew and came on board, bringing their abstraction and art selling knowledge to the team.

Abstraction:

Sypha is a green lux adept who can use their own blood to either heal, or destroy, a target.

Exsanguinate: Sypha channeler is a Swiss Army knife. Their abstraction is called Exsanguinate and it allows them to use their blood in many ways, but always with a cost. In order to use their power they must first open their body up and allow the blood to flow, most commonly through the palm of their hand. When engaged, or when needed, they can shoot off up to ten tendrils made from their blood and can hit many targets at once. Once they hit, these tendrils burrow into their target where they await the next phase of the spell.

Crimson healer: Sypha has an innate healing ability that allows them to recover from most non-fatal injuries in rapid succession. They can extend this healing magic to various targets through their blood tendrils. The more targets they use it on the slower the heal works. This can mend broken bones, heal most lacerations, and can even fix complex internal injuries. This healing comes at the cost of blood loss. The connection consumes blood through the tendrils in both directions, meaning the longer Sypha heals the more blood both they and their target lose. There is a real risk that both could pass out.

Scarlet fever: Sypha can infect enemies through their tendrils with a fast-acting blood disease that causes a high fever, nausea, and dizziness. Rarely is this disease fatal, and a person can recover within an hour after the last dosage of this fever. This will once again inflict blood loss on Sypha through the use of their tendrils.

Sanguine Slash: They can also use their tendrils to slash, and manipulate objects. To slash at a target, Sypha must first gather and shape their tendrils into a blade shape, push more of their own blood into it, and then it is usable to slash. To manipulate an object or a person, they can impale a target with as many tendrils as needed, and then use the tendrils to pick up and throw the target.

[NoriWasHere]

“Ignis,” Eros shouted as he reached across the Obsidian hall with a hand stretched out trying to grab his friend. Yet, it was too little too late as Ignis was pulled across the hall and towards Malakith, and his symphony filled with heralds. Eros took a step back as the anger that filled his eyes slowly gave way to confusion before that too gave way to sadness.

“Alaria what do we do?” Eros asked as he looked back. She was in the middle of her protection song, her fingers becoming raw from the sheer amount of music she’s had to play. Alaria did not respond as she continued playing. Eros looked back towards the front and his eyes settled on Ignis. He was on the ground now, his back pressed downward by the darkness of the maestro's hand. The Maestro opened its mouth and began to sing its incomprehensible song, causing the entire area to shake violently. The song continued for several seconds before the maestro rose back up. The chains that binded him had begun to fail, and it was only a matter of time very he ripped himself free of them. A second later, Ignis began to clap his hands and applaud. “ALARIA,” Eros shouted as he took a step back. Ignis began to stand up, turning around as he did, and faced the group. His red face bore the tell tale signs of corruption as black tendrils began to snake under his skin.

“WHAT DO WE DO-,” Eros started but stopped as he turned and saw the Fates behind his friend. They were whispering in her ear, guiding her hand with a new song, and each had their eyes locked on Malakith. “Alaria..” Eros started as he lowered his guard.

“It’s okay, my friend,” Alaria said as tears began to stream down her face, “we can still seal him. We can buy the fates more time” Alaria finished as she began to pluck the strings.

“How much-“ Eros paused as he looked back at Ignis. Ignis had retrieved his weapon and had begun to walk towards the remaining two fated. “I can hold him off for a bit, how long do the fates need?”

“Years,” Veidia whispered to Eros, her voice in guts head alone.

“Centuries,” Chrona responded with a sad tone.

“More.” Eclipses finished as she pulled at invisible fate strings around them.

“We’re going to lock him in here Eros,” Alaria spoke in a singsong tone, “we’re going to finish the mission.”

Eros felt his mind grow cloudy, his strength begin to falter, and a deep desire to lay down and embrace the eternal sleep began to fill his waking thoughts. “I guess that means that I won’t be able to do my hero’s whoring then,” Eros joked as he turned to face Malakith. He knew what was happening. He never considered the possibility of it, nor did he know exactly what the fates were doing. But something in his mind told him that he and Alaria were about to die. And that this moment was Fated. “Oi, you’re a proper cunt for taking my friends.. You’ve lost to the fated five once,” Eros paused as he felt the strength fall away from his legs, “and you’ve lost to them again.”

Eros fell to the ground and as he hit the ground he was gone. Alaria too began to slump over but she continued the song. Alaria rested her eyes on Eros before she shifted them to get corrupted friends and gave them one final smile. Eventually her music slowed as did her breathing before she too found herself on the ground next to Eros.

Malakith chuckled in response. He looked out and saw only victory here today. Three of the fated five had joined his symphony, and the remaining two were about to be dead. What ploy were they working on, what did the fates whisper to them? A second later the chains that bound him pulled taught. He watched as stands of fate itself made its way into the metal itself, blessing them and making them fated. What’s more, these fated strands were powerful. The maestro began to feel weakened, tired, and ready to sleep as well. He couldn’t help but laugh.

“A year, a century, or eons more time will free me forevermore,” he laughed as he commanded his heralds to sleep. The chains that bound him pulled themselves tighter, and tighter, and tighter until each of his limbs were locked into place. The dull red glow of the maestro went dark, bringing himself, the heralds, and the fated five into darkness.

Deep within the heart of the desolate mountain, The Maestro lay bound in chains. Its ancient and powerful form is bound by enchanted restraints. The cavernous chamber echoed with a low hum, the very essence of the mountain pulsating with latent magic. The air was thick with the weight of centuries, and the only light emanated from the glow of mystical runes etched into the walls. Various golden strands of fate wove their way up and across the metal of the chains that bound The Maestro, and these golden strands had begun to dull in intensity.

As another tremor shook the cavern, The Maestro stirred from his seemingly eternal slumber. His eyes flickered with renewed vitality. The chains that bound him rattled with an echoing resonance as the mountain itself seemed to respond to his awakening. The Maestro shifted his vision to one chain in particular, and a rumbling laugh shook the area as a rock had fallen and broken a link. Without the enchantments of the fates, The Maestro was able to free the hand from its containment and he stretched it out in front of his face. A smile equal parts wicked and alluring spread across his face. He began to slowly raise the hand, palm open to the roof, and as he did The Maestros' music began to play once again. It was a silent symphony, with the music beyond the ability of our collective understanding but the power behind the composition was felt as the mountain rocked with another quake. It was a fraction of his power, but it was enough for him to begin his plot for freedom.

The Maestro raised his hand further, causing a red glow to fill the area around him revealing seven statues kneeling in front of his form. As he raised his hand even further, several tendrils formed in his palm and they shot out across the cavern and impacted the stone figures, burrowing deep as they hit. The red glow that emanated from The Maestro raced down the tendrils and began to fill the stone figures from the inside out. In a moment, the figures began to move. The stone cracked, letting arms and legs move freely of their prison, and within a minute the seven figures stood up, each with a wicked smile on their face.

“My most vocal heralds,” The Maestro spoke. His voice was somewhere between a thousand individual whispers and a full choir singing. “It is time to spread my music once more, you must return,” he paused as he raised his hand even higher, bringing the unheard music to a level that vibrated the entire area, shaking even more rocks free from above. As it reached its crescendo, two portals opened up behind the heralds. “Igai, Agor, venture forth. The realm yearns for our music, play it for them once more. Spread my influence, my whispers on the wind," The Maestro commanded, his voice a sinister lullaby. "Let the Fates know that I have awoken."

With that, the two heralds got up and vanished through the portal, leaving The Maestro and the remaining five heralds in his dark chamber. The echoes of their departure lingered, and as the last portal closed, The Maestro began to hum an eerie tune – a haunting melody that resonated within the very essence of the shadows. The cavern responded to his song, the stones humming in harmony with The Maestro's malevolent melody as he began to envision a world under his rule, a world where everyone listened to his symphony and a world where the fates were forced to. The remaining five heralds began to swing their weapons at the thousands of chains that bound him. Their magic was weakened by the broken link, and they weakened further with each subsequent blow.

“Mom, I saw something I swear,” a young girl pleaded as she cuddled up next to her mother.

“Honey, you can stay in bed with us tonight,” the mother smiled. This was a nightly occurrence for the small five year old child. The parents would put her to bed, they would turn out the lights, they would lay down, and then fifteen minutes later the child would come in because they saw a monster in the dark. “Eventually you will never see these monsters again, they are remnants of an old terror called Malakith,” the mother paused as she looked over to the husband and winked. The husband smiled, shook his head, and rolled over in the bed.

“Malakith?”

“The Maestro,” The mother responded.

“What’s a maestro?” The child asked.

The mother frowned as she thought for a second. Maybe she chose the wrong story to tell this night. “It’s a guy who composes music,” the mother guessed, “anyway, the maestro was an evil force that came to our world many years ago. His music was evil, and it filled the children with a fear of the darkness, made them see monsters in it that weren’t there. The monster was defeated, by a group of hero’s known as the five fated, and his monsters were banished from our world forever.”

“In the shadows deep, where darkness creeps,
Lurks Malakith, where the blackness seeps.
But fear not, dear child, for he's not all bad,
In the darkest corners, there's light to be had.
He may wear a cloak of night so cold,
But even evil has stories untold.
For in the end, even darkness can spark,
A glimmer of hope in the deepest dark.”

The mother looked over to the father, who had decided to chime in with a rhyme. Everyone in this village knew the story of the maestro, though what they did not know was just how off they were. To the children, this story was meant to show them that the dark held no monsters while they were safe behind their walls, inside their homes, even though the story and rhyme were originally meant to tell the heroic tale of the fated five. Time has a funny way of changing things.

“So, there’s no monsters in the dark?”

“None,” the parents responded in unison.

*knock*

The sound of a fist delivering a singular knock at the door. The parents looked at each other, and the father reached down and grabbed his sword.

*knock*

The sound of an individual waiting for them outside. The father stood up and walked to the main room of the house. The mother looked at the daughter and smiled, though her eyes betrayed her worry.

*creak*

The sound of the front door opening, with the father asking who’s there. A quiet followed, but a low hum soon filled it. It was jovial, it was happy, but for some reason it was a sound that defied definition. Then the sound of footsteps approaching from the door. A second later the father returned, black tendrils of corruption snaking across his face. His smile was wide, pained but excited, and he motioned for an unseen guest to join them.

“You have to hear this music, dears,” he said, before the screams of his wife and child filled the air for a moment before it was replaced by all three humming together, and the sound of footsteps back towards the door.

The fates huddled together in their realms. Around them was a frozen forest, with broken trees and snow-covered fields surrounding them. In the distance, a wolf howls at the moon. Throughout the area golden strands of fated thread run over and across the landscape. These fated threads represented much to the fates. Where they converged represented the centers of life, cities and forests and places of the sort, and where they did not cover was the deserts, the tundras, and the volcanic fields where life did not thrive.

The three fates jerked their heads at once to the side. Two convergence points, one in the Empire of Man and a second in the Silvermoor realm, began to shift in color. The golden stands began to adopt a red hue. The fates scurried together and ran from one point to the next. The heralds had started their conquests, and the fates needed their champions to counter. Veidia reached out and began snatching the threads off to their sides before she channeled her magic into the threads. All across Eldoria people, creatures, and events began to make subtle changes.

“The fated are ready,” Veidia spoke as she grabbed several fated stands and held them up to view.

“They will face much trouble,” Chrona responded as she grabbed the fated stands, examining them closely.

“The Maestro has been busy,” Eclipsis responded as she grabbed hold of the fated stands.

“Several heralds have been sent,” Veidia spoke as she began to look over the stands of fate that dotted the path ahead of the new fated warriors.

“Corruption spreads in their wake,” Chrona said as she examined them closely. The fate strands that she looked at were different than the ones away from the heralds. Instead of a pristine, golden glow, they had a more reddish hue. The Maestero's corruption ran deep, not only corrupting the victims' minds and bodies it also corrupting their fate.

“His music,” Veidia said with a hiss.

“His melodies,” Chrona said with a growl

“His corruption,” Eclipsis spoke softly. Eclipsis used her fated magic to lift the fated strands into the air, and then used the magic as she started twisting the various strands together into a single rope. The end of the rope remained imperfect, with each fated strand still sticking out in its own, however from this point on the fated fellowship would be drawn to each other. Whether through luck, outside interference, or the actions of the fated they would be together before long.

“They will fight,” Veidia said as she examined the corruption in the fate strands.

“They will save,” Chrona responded as she examined them closer.

“And they will purge this corruption,” Eclipsis said as she tried to cut the blighted strand, yet her blade could not cut through.

“We need them together,” Veidia spoke with excitement.

“After some time apart,” Chrona said with a neutral tone.

“And after they meet,” Eclipsis responded with sadness.

“They must finish what they started,” Veidia spoke with sadness

“Our Fated Five,” Chrona continued with her neutral tone

“Our departed friends,” Eclipsis finished sharply.

Veidia resumed the process of pulling together various other threads of fate and began to use her magic to influence the world outside. Winds would blow, factions would fight, and despair would befall the lands. This plight will be like beacons in the dark for the new fated champions. They will be drawn to these areas of fated energy, and they will have many decisions to make as they traverse them. Will they save those in trouble, and begin the process of etching their names onto the legend of this reality? Or will they ignore it and simply try and face the heralds of Malakith on their terms? Regardless of how they go about these next few weeks, they will be drawn to two towns, Dalvinwood in the west, and Nightingale Thicket in the east. As each day passes, the Fates know that more monstrous creatures will await them as the Maestro's music spreads unchecked.

[NoriWasHere]

“What a strange land,” Lys spoke to no one in particular as she watched a singular yellow leaf fall in front of her. This was her first time in the Empire of Man before winter hit, and it was her first time seeing the sea of colors all around the road. From the red, yellow, and orange leaves that dotted the canopy in the forest above, to the snow-capped mountains that filled the horizon, there was much that filled her with a wonder that she had never experienced. And thus far, she was enjoying what she was seeing. They did not have trees like this back in the Frost Tribes, no theirs were tall and prickly and always the same shade of green year-round. As well, she rarely got to see the mountain peaks back home as they were always in the clouds, and she was neither brave nor foolish enough to attempt that climb.

As she admired the scenery around her, movement ahead on the cobblestone road caught her eye. In a quick motion, she had a hand on her weapon and her face towards the unseen threat. A second later, she relaxed her grip and her expression softened as she watched a few small children running up the road towards her. The sound of laughter could be heard even from the distance she was at, and it brought a small smile to her face. These lands were much different from her own. While she thought that it was entirely too warm out, she loved the sights, the scents, and even the sounds of children feeling safe enough to run down the road even as a stranger walked them. As she continued her walk she noticed the children catch sight of her for the first time. It appeared as if the two children discussed what to do next before they turned away from Lys and began sprinting down the road.

“That is trouble,” Lys said with a frown. She knew that there was a village nearby. She knew this because she had led a small raiding party into it the previous winter. And she knew she may have stolen quite a bit of their needed food. While she was not dressed with the sigil nor the colors of her tribe today, she was still overdressed for this area and looked very much like one of the pale raiders. She knew the children would alert the local garrison, and they would come looking for her. Her eyes darted from side to side. She knew she had to keep traveling south, however, she would need to find a new path that would take her in that direction. As she thought, the wind carried a burnt piece of paper into her face, covering her vision completely. “The fuck,” she whispered as she ripped it from her face and looked at the writing on it. “Darmor,” she once again scanned the area around her, “is Darmor where I am meant to go,” she asked as she awaited an answer from The Fates. Silence was her only response. Silence, and then the ringing of a bell ahead of her.

“Shit,” she muttered as she took off to the side and into the woods. She held onto the burnt parchment like it was the most important piece of paper she had ever held. And she ran, running faster than she had in recent years, and trying to push through her own limits to run faster some more.

“Shit,” Grove muttered as she jumped over a fallen tree that blocked the path in front of her. She held onto the fated stick she was given like it was the most important sick she had ever held. And she ran, she ran faster than she thought she could but she knew she needed to run faster than even this.

Behind her, she could hear the shouts, the cries, and the frustration brewing in her pursuers. They were close. Much closer than they had been the past few days and much closer than Grove ever dared to fear. She could smell their anger, their desperation, and Grove needed to get away from it. Her eyes darted across the woods ahead, and she searched for whatever path would take her away from her pursuers. Eventually, she spotted it. There was a windy path that led towards a canyon, and Groves intuition and spirit birds told her that was the only way she’d get away. She turned her run towards that direction and set off down the windy trail.

Grove knew that there was something off about these woods. The leaves lacked the same vibrant warmth of her home, the trees looked old and sick, and there were as many dead trees still standing as alive ones. Everywhere she looked she felt like there were hungry eyes locked onto her, like she was the next meal to walk into their dinner plate. This was a place of danger. This was what the stories warned her about. This was a place where she could die. But yet, her smile never grew smaller. This chase, these woods, and these spooky sights were all new to her, and she was ready to face these new challenges.

Grove danced through the windy trail, avoiding every snag, every branch, and every fallen tree. Eventually, she had made her way to the edge of the canyon and was about to look for the trail when she heard a voice from being shout to her. “GROVE NO.” Her head turned slightly, trying to see who it was and only caught a glimpse of the scout Amara before she suddenly began to fall. The trail did not continue down a hill, or snake its way down the cliff side. Instead, the trail ended at the edge of the canyon before it gave way to a steep decline. It wasn’t a straight drop but it was a very steep slope filled with rocky outcrops and other sharp and dangerous objects.

Grove began to tumble down the side of the mountain. Her descent began to speed up only to be slowed down by collisions with the rocky structures that dotted the hillside. Again and again, she would tumble, fall, slip, and try to catch herself before she once again slammed into another rock. She curled herself into the tightest ball she could, protecting both her head and the fated stick with everything she had.

Eventually, the descent slowed and Grove found herself near the bottom of the canyon. She was bloodied, her bones were broken, and she would be crying in pain if it were not for the sheer adrenaline rushing through her veins. Grove attempted to stand up and the pain nearly pushed her back down. She tested each leg in turn and sighed as none appeared to have been broken in the fall. She had numerous broken ribs, that much she could tell, but her legs were the most important thing. She checked her bag and whispered “fuck” as she realized all her healing potions and jars were broken, however. She coughed, and with the cough, she winced in pain.

“STAY THERE GROVE,” Amaras faint voice shouted. Grove looked up and her eyes went wide with shock. She had fallen a great distance. The scout up top looked like little more than a baby deer in the distance as opposed to a roll-grown member of her species. “WE’LL GO TO TOWN TO SEE IF THERE’S A SAFE WAY DOWN. WE CAN HELP YOU,” Amara started.

“Leave me alone,” was all grove could shout back before the pain took her words. She scanned the area around, looking for healing medicines and plants. She knew that she had been given a blessing with this fall, and it was up to her to make the most of it. “What a strange land,” Grove finished with a smile.

[NoriWasHere]

"KEEP MOVING," Captain Roth shouted to his soldiers, "WE DO NOT STOP UNTIL THE MOUNT."

Captain Roth led his soldiers down the relatively narrow cobblestone path towards the Mount. The path was flanked on both sides by an old forest, while there was still some life in their branches there was more dead growth than new. While the leaves that did dot the canopy above started to show the first color of the autumn season, it was, by in large, a dead section. This dead section would stretch for the last leg of their journey, and this made Captain Roth nervous. His eyes darted from side to side, scanning the tree's and the canopy itself for signs of a thief. There had been a few attempts made by various groups already on their treasure, and he did not want to lose his prize this close to home. He did not want to lose his prize this close to fame.

"HURRY, HURRY, WE'RE ALMOST THERE."

Captain Roth had reason to worry more. This was the perfect spot for an ambush. The trees could be felled, stoping their advance, the branches could be dropped, crushing his soldiers, and the narrow path meant they could get blocked in easily. While his cavalry could maneuver still, the carriage couldn't. Captain Roth shifted his eyes back to the carriage. It was a metal monstrosity of locks, chains, and chained-up locks. It would take thirteen keys to fully unlock the door, and another one to get to their stolen goods. He knew that if an ambush were to happen, it would take longer for a would be thief to open the door and get the artifact than it would for reinforcements to arrive. He knew that he had completed his mission, but a single thought still lingered.

What if the thief was good?



An eerie calm falls over Orban and his traveling crew despite the sight of bodies littering the roadside and strewn across the village around them. These corpses were in a fight, they all wore some facet of armor and a litany of weapons littered the area around them. Their blood painted the road, the houses, and even the grass and it was evident that they did not die without a fight. Yet, despite the chaos and despite this bloodshed, there was one thing missing that Orban could easily tell. The villagers. The only bodies were the soldiers, and there were footsteps in the blood-stained mud that suggest that whoever once called this place home was led away from it towards the nearby forest. What’s more, there are several canine tracks unlike anything seen before in the mortal realm. These footprints were big, bigger than any dog or wolf and even bigger than some of the monsters that Orban would have faced.

There is also something off about the air. It is as if something powerful lingers within it. Some unspoken word, some unseen threat, or some unknown presence. If they look carefully they may even see an eye peeking at them from the windows, from the forest, and every direction and yet there is nothing there.



A most peculiar sight awaits Taiji. As he travels down the road a small caravan of wealthy-looking, but upset, businessmen will begin to pass them. They are dressed in fine linen, and carry expensive-looking crates and chests however they struggle to take each step. It is as if none of these people have actually worked a day in their lives, and this little effort of labor is too challenging for them. They all have the same look of sadness mixed with anger in their eyes, and Taiji may hear a few curses whispered under their breath at their misfortune.

“You, you look like you are up for a challenge,” one of the men shouted as she walked up to Tiji. He was tall, fat, and looked like he was used to commanding an aura of respect. He wore no jewelry however the tan lines on his finger suggest that he typically does. His eyes carried a look of contentment.

“What if I could promise you riches beyond measure,” he asked Tiji, “the name is Kaito, and I run the village of Hurrin,” he paused as he sighed with anger, “or should I say ran. A musical demon entered our village last week, and he has fought and killed his way through our militia until he forced us out. We called him,” he paused as he shifted his eyes from side-to-side, “the singing demon, the maestro of our misfortune. Will you help us?”



“GET AWAY FROM MY MOTHER,” a young boy screams as he charges towards Bren.

He is young, maybe seven or so years of age. He has a small dagger in his hand but it looks like it might as well be a sword. He has small cuts and scrapes across his face but is otherwise okay. Behind him, a younger girl is holding onto his clothes. Fear is present in both their eyes, a fear that is directed to the sight of Bren.

“I WILL STAB YOU, MONSTER,” the boy will scream again but as he continues his charge he will trip over a branch that had suddenly blown in with the wind, falling to the ground and sending the knife sliding across the pavement towards Bren. The boy is not hurt, at least badly, but he still screams. The boy scoots backward, trying to now put distance between Bren and himself, but also keep himself in between Bren and his family. Bren would notice that there is a woman in the ditch on the side of the road who is hurt badly. She has been attacked by a sword and a long laceration is seen across her chest. Her eyes flicker open, but they don’t stay open for long and she drifts back to sleep.

The family sits on the side of the road at a crossroads. The post has three signs on it. The first points towards a nearby village. Smoke fills the air coming from that direction and Bren would smell the blood that was spilled there. The second points towards a nearby city called Goldrun. It was a larger city, and they would have healers and possible help for the young family. The third pointed towards another village, and Bren may notice a familiar track in the mud heading towards it. A gnoll footprint.



“So, you must be why I am waiting here,” a well-dressed man whispered from behind Eve and his group.

From seemingly nowhere this well-dressed man appeared and began to walk towards the fated one. He was well dressed, with an expensive robe that was covered in fine trims and details that would make even the vainest nobleman blush. Despite the robe being closed the trio could easily tell that the man was strong. The longer they looked at the well-dressed man, the more a sense of unease would fall over them. There was something off, something wrong, with the person walking towards them. And if sight alone was not enough, the air began to carry with it the faint hint of sulfur.

“I was told that I could expect someone of great power to face the coming darkness on this road, but even I could not have guessed that would be the Citadel’s first love,” a slight grin fell across the face of the well-dressed man as he sized up Eve’s traveling companions, “don’t worry, I don’t bite,” his voice a mix of sultry and sweet, “I am here to join up on your merry escapade,” he paused as he leaned in, “on your fated quest.”

The well-dressed man’s smile only grew larger, warmer, and more inviting. His eyes seemed kind, gentle, and compassionate.



“Wait,” a single voice cut across a sea of bodies.

“Wait, don’t,” the man coughed and blood followed, “don’t go you must help them.”

All around Iveus was death. A battle was had recently, and it was a battle that this human patrol lost. A hundred bodies dotted the landscape, all in some different state of destruction. Some were cleaved in two, some were thrown into the rocky landscape breaking their bodies, and others found a merciful death with a stab through the heart. However, there was no sign of whomever or whatever attacked them. The only bodies that dotted the landscape were this human faction, and they died fighting something other than themselves.

“I feel myself fading,” the man whispered. He had a look in his eye, a determined look. “I don’t know what it was but it cut through us, it was humming some twisted song as it swung…” The man gasped for air for a brief second, “it’s heading towards the village of Koi, it’s heading..” the man leaned his head back as a few more pained breathes filled the air. “It’s heading…” his voice grew weak. “It’s…” He grew silent as his chest ceased movement, and his head slumped to the side.

Iveus would notice that the air hung heavy with a strange energy. It was not magic, but it held a power he never felt before. Whatever cut through these soldiers was strong, and it was heading towards a village that would not be able to protect itself.