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A Hero Tale: Mikhael

It was too quiet. The occupants of the cart, those who were awake anyways, turned and glanced at Mikhael as he hopped off to keep watch of their surroundings. The sound of Ezekial's king clacking onto the wooden chessboard echoed quietly, catching the large knights attention. Lucas glared at the board for a few seconds before he'd realized what had happened.

"Checkmate," Ezekial groaned tiredly, "That makes 5 to 0. I think I'll take after Mikhael, Lucas." Lucas looked down in disbelief, rested his armored shoulder on the barrel and held his head. "Reset the board, in case somebody else wants to play." Lucas begrudgingly nodded before raising his left index finger to his kings crown, and gently knocking it over.

"Right," Lucas whispered as Ezekial made his way out of the cart. Joshua turned to Lucas and snapped his book shut.

"I'm good for a game."

***

Before long, Mikhael was dangerously far from the cart that held his compatriots. Not that he couldn't defend himself if something decided to pounce. There was a thickness in the air though, something familiar, yet uncommon. The closer he inched towards the forest, the thicker it became. Even after only several meters, it felt like he was surrounded by a dense fog. Lillian might've noticed it before getting too close to the forest, or perhaps she'd just lucked out?

"Don't wander off too far, Mikhael," Ezekial called out, jogging quietly to catch up to the Mikhael, "This silence is making me uneasy." Even when not at the Queens side, Ezekial carried himself with the utmost refinement. His posture was perfect despite the atmosphere, and his hair was still styled perfectly to frame his face, without a shred of hay or dirt trapped between his sleek, black locks. Even his apparel was in perfect order, despite not wearing his silvered helmet. From Ezekials breastplate to his shining pauldrons, he was a definitive paragon of order, unlike his mirror guard Joshua, who unlike many other knights, did not wear armor to protect his body. Although still not as tall as Lucas or Rajaka, the knight towered over Ezekial as he grew closer. "Unfortunately, crushing Lucas in Chess has done little to calm my nerves."

Scattered Shades ~ (High Fantasy RP)

Prelude

As long as anyone can remember, life has been governed by the unstable flux of arcane energy. Humans have always striven to unlock the hidden potential of the arcane through any means possible, from scientific extrapolation, to innate application through blind talent. It has pushed many to look for potential in areas which most thought to be dangerous, unnatural, or outright horrifying. Despite the many doubts that still linger in the minds of the masses, mages, both traditional and professional, have pushed their boundaries, birthing magic and technology that has shaped the structure of life as we know it. Regardless of the positive influence of their progress however, curiosity and perseverance ultimately acted as a catalyst for conflict and disagreement between factions, both big and small, across the scope of the entire world.

Thankfully, due to the combined efforts of the Arcadian nation, and their allies within the super continent of Thorisa, peace has been present for the past 120 years, and shows no real signs of waning any time soon. Despite disagreements between traditionalists and scientific methodists, life has never been better for civilians, and progress continues to flourish in both fields of arcane study. Even so, the tension between factions remains high, giving rise to very strained relations between the capital nations of Thorisa. Even though there's a mutual understanding to keep the peace, and none have been foolish enough to contradict this ideal, very few stable connections between nations exist outside of the Quadra-Power of Arcadia, Hyznia, Illon, and Teknoh. Towns, Cities and small Countries are completely separate from one another, spread unevenly across the continent, and physically divided by large, unclaimed expanses of land. Dangerous creatures, and untapped magics lay scattered across the empty recesses of no-man's-land for the strong of heart to discover, at their own risk, of course.

Very few actually choose to venture outside the borders of civilization, hunting for relics, nodes, and knowledge to further assist in the progression of arcane resources, all for different reasons. Some study independently from the conglomerates in any given city, developing or deconstructing magic in their own way, while others sell what they find to avoid the troubles of prolonged labor. Regardless of the intentions that these treasure hunters harbor, they're all looked upon as filth, and carry a horrible reputation alongside their profession. Thus, they have been labeled as 'Divers' akin to their habit of diving into the dangers that present themselves out in the mysterious wilds of no-man's-land. Although they put their lives at risk for the greater good of progress, there aren't many who respect their sacrifices at all. After all, bravery is idiotic in Thorisa, or at least that's what the governments would like the general populace to believe. Why? Nobody really knows.

There's one advantage that Divers have over even the most esteemed mages and scientists of the Arcadian order, though. They're the only ones who have the slightest idea of what's going on in no-man's-land. If Arcadia is the power mediating the largest civilizations across Thorisa, Divers are the power that mediate no-man's-land, effectively turning it into the 'Diver's paradise' for the experienced, and turning the ill-thought title of 'Diver' into a badge of courage to wear with pride. Some think that the Divers have established something of a rogue nation within no-man's-land, but information on their habits is sparse, and nobody is willing to leave the safety of their home nations to look into this theory any further. In that respect, Divers are safe from the eyes of Arcadia, and the nations under their supervision.

Now the world of Thorisa is waiting for you, fellow Divers. Are you ready to traverse no-man's-land for fame, fortune, and glory beyond your recognition- among your fellow Divers, anyways, haha!

---

The Three Philosophies of Energy

Hider

The Philosophy of Arcane

Arcane energy is clearly abundant in Thorisa, and it's theorized to exist at every corner of the universe as the glue that binds the very fabric of existence together. Although different elemental compounds produce arcane energy at different rates and with different affinities, arcane energy is created indefinitely at the core of every atom in the universe. That being said, all matter and energy in the universe consists of one form of arcane energy or another, which ultimately ties the study of magic into the practical sciences that can be observed with relative ease. Arcane energy naturally crystallizes to form new atoms as well, and can be forced to do so with diminishing returns of different significance, making it possible to replicate every element known to mankind with varying degrees of difficulty. Taking this into account, many have inferred that the creation and destruction of the universe is a constant cycle, with arcane energy being the core element that exacerbates this progress. Furthermore, it can be assumed the universe will continue to expand for eternity, since Arcane energy is produced by all atoms throughout their entire lifetime.

Arcane energy also plays a part sustaining human life, as humans are merely a conglomeration of matter and energy. All humans have an arcane network that allows them to interact with the energy around them. By applying their own energy to their environment, humans are able to use magic, which varies tremendously in power and capability. There are no foreseeable limits to this ability, but some are more gifted than others, and many are completely incapable of using magic at all. However, the arcane network itself acts like a muscle in the body, and can sustain a larger stream of power if it is used often enough. Some of the most powerful mages have a reserve nearly 100x that of a normal human being. Despite the extensive modern understanding of the body's arcane network, it is still the least understood of all arcane aspects, and there are many things that cannot be explained through magical science alone.

Lastly, arcane energy can be used to power a myriad of technological machines. Once might assume that mechanics use arcane energy to produce electricity, but the energy loss in this conversion is far too substantial, so scientists have developed a way to directly harness the arcane with a complex Arcanite interface. This makes modern technology very energy-efficient, but there is still quite a demand for usable arcane energy, since the arcane node of each city has a limited output, despite their infinite potential. The most obvious use for this technological breakthrough is for housing amenities, transport vehicles, Projectile/Melee Weapons, and all sorts of interesting contraptions. Computers, phones, and other electronic devices like them do not exist in the world, and nobody has come close to creating anything resembling these complex mechanical wonders as of yet. Communication through magic is far more common than through the use of letters or animals, despite being a rare talent in and of itself.

The limits of arcane energy are endless, and there are mages discovering new ways to apply their talents every day. Likewise, there are arcane scientists learning more about how arcane energy functions. What can you do with this endless array of options?

The Philosophy of Ki

What the Arcane cannot explain about the body, is instead extrapolated upon through faith. Ki is known worldwide as the energy that sustains living creatures, giving them a unique presence that stands out beyond that of the arcane. It is believed that Ki shapes who a person is, from their personality to their capabilities and limitations. It is a presence that exists at each person's core. That being said, the studies of Ki are based solely on faith, and have absolutely no place in modern science whatsoever. In fact, despite all of the answers that Ki offers, it is frowned upon and sometimes outright belittled by arcane scientists and mages throughout Thorisa.

Ki is thought to affect the body's physical attributed directly, improving one's strength, speed, healing factor, and thinking power despite the physical limitations that should not allow such feats. There are many who claim to harness Ki through rigorous training, who are capable of performing incredible feats, such as lifting objects hundreds of times their own size, or running faster than even the most dexterous land vehicle. In rare occasions, it is said that one can actually extend their Ki beyond their body's shell, creating energy waves that can outright destroy matter and external energy with otherworldly ratios. Scientists who acknowledge Ki, although very few in number, theorize that its power is 100x more condensed than that of the most refined arcane energy. Ki cannot exist outside the body for long, however. This, paired with the doubts in the scientific community, has prevented any attempts to harness Ki for practical use.

Many know better than the prudes in the scientific community, though. Ki is very real, and it rests within us all. But unlike arcane energy, it is limited by an individual's determination and resolve, rather than their skill and dedication. Where can your faith bring you?

The Philosophy of Void

The void is an enigma, and even less evident than Ki. Put simply though, it is the lack of space, time, or energy. It is the impossibility that exists when nothing exists. Technically speaking, it is the counter thesis to both Ki, and arcane energy, ergo reality itself.

In theory, if Void was literal, it would devour all it could, until it expended itself. Of course, this could bring about the end of the universe, but only if there was a steady flow of void into an otherwise stable dimension of space and time. It could eat away at the arcane with ease, and would be attracted to the most powerful concentrations of energy, namely Ki, like a moth to a flame. Theories on void energy are sparse, and based on the ramblings of insane mages who have claimed resonance with the void between worlds itself. Although it is not acknowledged as a reality in the scientific world, the studies supporting it are remarkably well structured. Void energy Theory, or VET, is a fearsome study indeed.

---

Welcome to Scattered Shades, a high fantasy RP that bases itself in a very well established universe that begs to be prodded at violently!

Scattered shades will be a epic about stress between nations, unrest in the magical sciences, and corruption that acts as a catalyst in more ways than one. The world itself, Thorisa, is strewn with dangerous creatures and individuals who seek to spread ruin and tear magic from the earth, fueled by relentless greet.

As mentioned, this universe is very well established, but I'm looking to create a story for many to enjoy and influence in any way they'd like! I am however, looking for dedicated individuals that will contribute not only to the story, but share any concerns or suggestions they have with me directly. I will also be looking for a Co-GM if this picks up at any point.

For now, I am looking for interested individuals. The RP itself will be written at a high-casual to low-advanced level, but all levels of writing are welcome. I'm not a stickler for skill or experience, I just want everyone involved to have fun.

Post below if you have any interest or questions. Thank you.

An Empty World

Tenatative interest. I need to see a finished product to know.

A Hero Tale {Complete}

Jenso's foot was not met with resistance this time. It struck the pawn's orb and shattered it with ease, and the entire thing came crumbling down. "Good move! Ah, a righteous strike! But.." Ada rose her hand, and the purple clone of her body darted forward, between the gap in her defenses, and right at Jenso. As it got near, it moved like an assassin and whipped its heeled foot clockwise towards Jenso's throat.

A Hero Tale: Mikhael

~ Chapter 5 ~

_{Velvet Horizon}

The increase in plant life was no coincidence at all. Though the toxic air made it difficult for anything to thrive in the wild, ecosystems that ingrained themselves in the earth prior to the tear were not uprooted so easily. Like every other living thing, the great forests were resilient, and refused to leave their home, planted firmly in the soil that bore them, no matter how tainted or fiendish it became. That is how the forests stood to this day. But the natural topiary of nature's own creation was no longer lush and flooded with beauty. The thickness of greenery was replaced by a crimson array of leaves and jagged wood. Lillian looked upon the horizon with worry, arriving at the forest's edge as the moon hung highest in the sky. Midnight greeted them with a wall of danger and mystery that they were given no warning of. It was one of many forests that Maya shared through text and speech, but even so, it was unfamiliar through the corruption that tore it from what textbooks described. It was now nothing more than the crimson woods.

Lillian yanked the cart to a stop less than a kilometer away from the forests edge, shaking everyone who slept in the back with an abrupt quake. Killion and Raltz neighed comfortably as the sudden jolt, and pulled the cart off its path. There were several decrepit trees scattered along the moist landscape, but they paled in comparison to the behemoth that stood in their way. Lillian nodded and stood from her perch. "Here's as good a place as any," she mumbled, turning into the cabin behind her to wake any who slept. But what she saw was far less depressing than what she expected. Instead of lethargic bodies neatly tucked into the hanging wooden boards meant for sleeping, she only saw Henry attempting to rest near the back corner of the cart. Lucas and Ezekial were seated to her left, using a small barrel to host a chess game, and Joshua was reading with his feet hanging off the back of their cart. "No concern for our stopping?" Lillian blurted. Joshua merely turned a page further into his novel and shook his head, Henry was fast asleep, and the two men playing chess were too absorbed in their game to acknowledge her inquiry. "Lucas!" she spat, grabbing the top of her brother's helmet from behind. "Why are you still wearing that thing?"

"It helps me think," Lucas said calmly, moving his Queen to take one of Ezekials pawns. "And I like the way it feels. Why are we stopped?" Lillian sighed and stomped her way over to the wooden board next to Henry, and hopped onto it in a hurry. The boards were lined up on either side of the cart, with supplies stored below them, and soft hay lined along their length. They were meant for sleeping, but until now, nobody seemed all that tired. "I suppose that means we're not getting an answer.."

A Hero Tale: Mikhael

Lillian grunted and stabbed the tip of Mikhael's sword into the wooden doorway that separated their two seats. The more Mikhael spoke of his undying allegiance to Maya, the more Lillian's face tightened. She turned her head forward and began to tune Mikhael out, focusing on the rythmic beats of Killion's hooves instead. The path was no longer covered in rough stone when they passed the extent of Kale's badlands. What was once a chorus of irritating clicks, turned to one of soft percussion. Lillian looked lost in rapid thought as Mikhael went on about his pride. She didn't want to hear it. It became harder to drown him out with the sounds of travel, though. So much so that she'd resorted to daydreaming. When Mikhael commented on Maple itself, she sneered at him kissed her teeth. There was nothing more she had to say to him. Not then.

~ End Of Chapter 4 ~

A Hero Tale: Mikhael

"I was surprised, to say the least," Lillian huffed irritably, "but you can't erase a history of stoic disrespect with a stupid feat of heroics." Lucas jabbed at the back of Lillian's neck with two fingers and shook his head. She ignored him and set her eyes back on the road. But the sound of steel against her wooden seat pulled her gaze. She looked at the sword with a worried expression, and then at Mikhael. Her eyes narrowed angrily and she pulled at the horses to keep them en route. "I've slayed monsters before. Give me a reason, and I won't hesitate if you find yourself at the receiving end of my blade, or yours, likewise," she said sternly. Lucas shook his head and wandered back into the cart in response to his sister's stubborn reaction. Lillian sighed and pulled the horses to bank left down a particularly ill-treated pathway. After an uncomfortable silence, Lillian spoke again, her tone sullen and soft.

"We're headed for a city known as Maple," She croaked, "Maya spoke little of its origins, but it's a ways away. She's confident that we'll be able to find something there, assuming we can even find it at all." Lillian glanced at the horizon as the rocky uneven landscape began to flatten. Grooves in the stone, and the silhouettes of trees were softly highlighted by the moon's glow for miles. The direction they'd chosen had been leading them out of a terribly dangerous environment after all. Some of the trees were even sprouting leaves, albeit sparingly and with strange discoloration. "We weren't supposed to tell you, Maya made that clear. We're only ordered to keep you safe. You're our- Maya's precious cargo, rather." Lillian pulled one of her arms back and picked up Mikhael's sword by its handle. She raised it back towards him and nudged his shoulder with its hilt. "I see you as a tool for the Queen, but I will not treat you the way she does. And if it comes down to it, I will not need your sword to kill you."

A Hero Tale: Mikhael

Lillian stared at the road ahead of her intently, pulling the horses away from the edge whenever she needed to while listening to Mikhael. Lucas glanced at the both of them, shifting his eyes occasionally to see if any of what Mikhael was saying would jostle his sister's unwavering composure. Lucas huffed and turned away from Mikhael when he jabbed playfully at the knight. "Please, the last thing I'm concerned with is the difference in our abilities. That golden giant toppled us both, all the same. I'm more concerned with the origins of our Queen's healing magic, and your ability to suppress this apparent case of demonization within your body. If you are in control now, then this does not match the demonization that we've been taught of... But Maya's understanding of how any of it works seems to be limited as well, otherwise she wouldn't send us out into the wild."

"I prefer this," Lillian said softly. She took her eyes off the road for a split second and glared up at the tear in the sky. "I prefer being on a road to something, rather than hiding behind a wall of lies. Even if Mikhael's Arcana is fated to kill him, even if our world is doomed, it feels right to be outside of Maya's dark walls for once." Lillian glanced at Mikhael again for the briefest of moments before turning her gaze back to the sky. "At any rate, I'm not exactly excited about dragging Maya's weapon around like an errand girl. If what you're telling us is true, what's to say that you'll be able to keep the darkness in your heart under control?" Lucas was silent as Lillian spoke, but felt an uncomfortable chill crawl down his spine when she brought the topic of friendly fire up. "Maya didn't even offer to come with us in place of her royal guard. Isn't it dangerous to carry a sword around without its sheath?"

A Hero Tale {Complete}

Jenso's fist was blocked by a thin layer of purple light, and pushed back slowly as the piece in front of him moved forward.

"Pawn to F4!" Ada squeaked, raising a hand. Suddenly, the protected pawn shot forward several feet, attempting to not only push Jenso away, but knock him right off his feet. "You can't cheat, golden boy!"

A Hero Tale {Complete}

"Please!" Ada shouted, raising both her hands. Suddenly, 15 purple figured jutted up from the ground on either side of her. They were all mounted on stumps, but had very simple designs. The 8 in front were simply spheres mounted atop cylindrical bases, lined up with another figure behind each one, including Ada herself near the middle. In the back corners, there were two large cylinders that had no real form, but towered over the rest of the pieces with twice as much height. Beside them, were Horse-like figures, and further in were pointed spikes with a small slit in their centers. At Ada's side stood an exact copy of her, but without detailed features. Every piece was a reflective purple, mirroring their surrounding ever so slightly.

Of course, one of the mounted-spheres was now between Jenso and Ada. It projected a purple barrier that would have easily intercepted his fist. It was like a thing film of purple transparent plastic, and disappeared after he hit it.

"I didn't say we couldn't play another game while we waited!"