Rin stood tall with his slightly crazy grinn, "would you like to join me in battle this fine day?" rin asked as he turned towards Cocoa while running into the frey. The grass was about knee height and if it wasnt for the fack he was made of fire im sure his imp would have been lost, so rin raised his crossbow and let loose a bolt, just as his finger squeezed the trigger a slight flash appeared from his free hand and the imp spat a small wall of fire in front of the bolts path. "good work" rin said to the small imp as the now flaming bolt streaked across the clearing and straight into the neck of one of the oncoming toad creatures. "good hit but we gota finish it" rin said as the imp now running towards the creatures, rin loaded another bolt and walked in the direction of the creature.
Two of the toads now made a B-line for James and cocoa with their slightly damaged weapons, but still never underestimate your opponent

Punk Bunny glanced at Hebigami and her masochist henchman Kurotetsu. Apparently, the Liberation- dorks or whatever decided to go to the island after all. It was not a shock to Punk, those rowdy self-proclaimed heroes were gonna try going there sooner or later. Punk was also pretty disappointed that the New Terror was going to just charge in there like a bunch of idiots and most likely spark a old-fashioned war. That wasn't her style all all, she prefered to wage war from the shadows. Silently, creep in and unscrew the ties of order from behind scenes. Punk sat down in an empty bar stool next to the rowdy ol' New Terror members. She began to silently brainstorm ways to destroy the opposition without causing too much ruckus. Still, she didn't blame the Liberation Group one bit. They had one life that the led for so long, and now all of a sudden they were forced into this fake one. "Fake...." she shook her head at that word. "When you've got paradise right in between your fingers why would you just choose to go to a lesser place." Punk got up and silently walked out of the bar and looked up at the world tree. How could something so real be fake? If it's just as real as the real world then why question it? She took fast pace steps around some buildings and merchant stands to blend in with the crowd. "The warlords record the history while....." she turned her head towards the bar. "The assassins CREATE it."

Mercurial Rayne turned away before the leader of New Terror was even done speaking. He agreed with their cause, but that Hebigami was simply a bloodthirsty psychotic bitch. Mercury wasn’t willing to make her his enemy though, as New Terror was the only group powerful enough to impede the Liberation Group’s quest to leave this world. An enemy of an enemy is an enemy’s enemy, as it was.

The doors of the hall flew open ahead of Mercury as he left. His face showed no emotion, a necessity for him to stay a member of New Terror, but Mercury was angry. If only he’d spent more time leveling and getting stronger in the game before, he might have been able to… No, that was a stupid thought.

Mercury grabbed his sword, undrawn as always, and pointed the end as the ground. A glowing blue circle appeared around the weapon, and then Mercury was shot as if out of a cannon high into the air. He needed to do some relaxing.

***

The first monster Mercury came across upon leaving Alkharn was a weakling Skeleton. While he would have preferred something better, he didn’t really need a strong enemy to just take out some stress on. The skeleton tried to attack, but it was moving far too slow. Mercury shoved his sheathed sword up through the monster’s hollow ribcage almost to its skull and then blew it apart from the inside.

He hadn’t really needed Haste to deal with such a weak enemy, he’d just done it out of habit as he’d entered combat. Oh well, he had some speed to waste now. Mercury ran for a few seconds until he came upon more monsters. They were still pretty weak, none even above level 40, so he just had some fun.

A Toad Vanguard took a stab at Mercury, but it hit nothing. A Toad Warrior did get a hit in as Mercury enveloped the group of enemies and himself inside a bubble of slowed down time, but it was just a minor cut. The mage jumped outside of the bubble and proceeded to beat the group of toads with his sword, using Time’s Backhand to keep them corralled within the bubble of Slowed time. The two Toad Vanguards got smart and threw their spears, but the instant they did so Mercury’s eyes saw their paths. The spears dug into the ground on either side of the mage as he finished off their owners with more jabs of his sword.

Mercury had a smile on his face again and was laughing as he sprinted away between the trees. Damn New Terror summons had forced him to leave his party of fun players, lest they track him to his destination. Now he had to go and find some new people to play with.

Mercury shot himself into the air over the treetops and looked around for other players. He didn’t see any players through the trees, but he did see some trees not too far away shaking. As soon as his feet touched down on the ground again the mage was off and running.

A collab between xAsunawolfx and 1Charak2

Location: In front of Lib Guild, accompanying Garnet

---

Damn! Esdeath’s thoughts echoed as she sensed a curious presence approaching, so much that it finally wrapped around her brain that he has seen her human form and those words were directed at her. Curtesy of the crowd’s reactions, events were still slightly in her favor. A safe town, more forms, and a whole guild, a rather oblivious crowd, watching him storm up to an “NPC” animal. No doubt it had rose laughs from those who thought he was silly but Esdeath could tell he would be a survivor, unlike the drunk oozing his praises in the corner. A PK, huh? Anger burned in the cat’s marvelous eyes, dilated it’s slit pupils thinner than a paper. It’s muzzle parted, running her tongue over her barbaric canines. Esdeath knew at this point, an animal’s AI would sense his negligent intentions and took the defensive posture, unsheathing her claws. Player killers first

Charak's Eyes stopped their wandering as they Turned back to the Feline. its Eyes full of Feral Rage and anger. Charak locked eyes with the feline. Every en-cumbersome he took a Daring step forward The cat unsheathed its claw's a small hint of Hesitation befell Charak's Almost emotionless face. But neither the less he pushed forwards till he was about half a meter a way from the cat he knelt down. A faint rustling of metal befell his attire as his weapons clinked in their sheaths. His voice Barely an Audible whisper but loud enough for the cat to hear Spoke. "calm down I’m not here to kill anyone i just wanted to know who you Ar-" Charak felt the back of his cloths being pulled up as he was heaved to his feet. Although he Meant no harm he was a player killer class and was generally the scum of every conversation. Charaks eyes locked with garnet Who quickly lowered him "What Do you want Player Killer you are not Welcome here?" Garnet said as he looked at Charak with utter disgust Charak Stared back But the Content jeering of the crowd was slowly Starting to piss Him off... Charaks eye narrowed in frustration as he looked back at the feline..

The feline understood the human language. There was no doubt to Charak. Maybe it was the way she looked at him or how her rapid breathing became shallow when her claws slid back into her paws partially. Esdeath had to put on a mask of confusion like any normal animal would. Player killers weren't welcomed anyway, however, Garnet looks like the person who could have a change of heart. Esdeath was not about to drop to her knees and blow her cover by speaking English, both of them would leave the situation in Garnet’s hands. A low rumbling came from the felines chest. She felt partially guilty for backing away from the PK to behind Garnet's legs as if she had feared him.

What was that? Esdeath gazed to the sky and the treetops. Somewhere, far away, she felt someone's presence in the forest. His essence felt....lethal, dangerous. The cat paced from side to side, scenting the air. Her stare was glued in his direction although she could not catch sight of him.

Well this was interesting; it seems like a Player Killer had just appeared. "Odd, what's someone like that doing here?" Renbu wondered. Something else that was interesting was that he seemed to be trying to talk to that strange cat that had appeared. "Come to think of it, what's up with that cat? It seems more...expressive, then most animals. Or, wait...are all animals in the game like that? Huh, I honestly can't remember. I wouldn't be surprised, but I'm not sure. It could just be a normal animal...or maybe a player who can shapeshift. I remember my old class had a few transformations. But still...animal or player? I really can't say." Then, shrugging, he added "oh well, might as well just watch. This might be fun"

Location: Alkharn

Faction Liberation Group.

Garnet had noticed the large feline that had approached him. To be honest, he quite liked these pseudo-cats, because they were like real world cats but a lot bigger, and Garnet was definetely a cat person. He was about to squat down and pet it when someone else appeared. The cat and him crossed eyes. 'I see now.... this is no normal cat. A player, shapeshifter. She blew her cover sooner than she thought, but I'll play along.'

"What do you want, player killer? You are not welcome here." He said, after recognizing the guy's face. He felt nothing but disgust for him, maybe he had chose his class when this was merely a game, but now... Now it was way more serious. He waited until the two ended their exchange of glances and then, the shapeshifter, feigning ignorance, hid behind him. He, or she, also posed its gaze over to the forest, and Garnet did the same, but if the feline wasn't capable of seeing what was happening there, then it was out of question for Garnet. Anyhow, back to the topic at hand. These animals don't always behave like this, unless they sense a vile person in their way. State your bussiness, if you have any, leave right now if you don't. New Terror would be a more fitting scenario for one such as you." Garnet speaked in such a dignified tone, he truly seemed a knight of this world, though many knew that was entirely not the case. Suddenly, and seemingly, out of nowhere, a new voice joined the conversation.



"Now, now, Garnet-san, you yourself said it yourself before. An extra sword in battle always comes in handy." The black haired girl that appeared from behind Garnet says. She is Garnet's partner AND bride, Kanade. "Don't hear to what this blockhead has to say," She says to Charak as she arrives. "As long as you have the best interests of the Liberation Group in mind, you are more than accepted here. So, make yourself at home, at least, while you can." She had a gentle smile on her face until now, and her expression turned somewhat grim.

Garnet has a slight blush around his cheeks and shyly scratches her left cheek with one finger. "W-Well, you might be right. Even so!" Quickly regaining his bravado, Garnet points at Charak. "I'll be keeping my eye on you, Player Killer! If you wish to assist us, that is!" Kanade lets out a chuckle and Garnet blushes even more. He turns around, cape fluttering and passes one of his arms around Kanade, bringing her near him. Still, he hadn't forgotten about the cat. Garnet slightly turned around and motioned with his head for the cat to follow him.

An announcement could be heard all across the camp. WE ARE LEAVING IN 30 MINUTES, the voice said, seemingly, coming from some kind of headphone or something. Anyhow, time was running short and they would have to leave shortly. People better hurry up with re-stocking and everything.

---

After Hebigami's speech, everyone returned to their own business, drinking their socks off or knocking them out of someone else. Really, if it weren't for Hebigami's 'leadership', New Terror wouldn't even be what it is. Maybe, it'd be like the Deabauchery Tea Party or something. Hebigami went to the front door and put her hand on the doorknob, but before exiting, she turned around, remembering she still had something to say to her comrades. "Remember to re-stock, bunch of idiots! Wouldn't want those guys overpowering us because we lack some basic potions now, would we? Be prepared! We leave in 20! She says and now swings the door open. When she walks outside, KuroTetsu crawls behind her, with his creepy smile covering his face.

"W-Where are you going, princess? S-Shouldn't you rest and-" KuroTetsu is cut half sentence by Hebigami's gun yet again.

"You are no boss of me, all right? I need to do... something. In preparation for this whole thing." KuroTetsu nods, still with his smile on and Hebigami lowers her gun. "Good. Follow me if you want to know." She continues walking and KuroTetsu walks behind her. he seems like a curious hamster while he walks behind her, and his curiosity grows even more when they reach the city bazar. "Kuro, remind me what class you are again?" She says, while she picks up one of the weapons in display of a weapon shop.

"S-Swordsmaster, princess. He says, while he also inspects the weapon Hebigami has in her hands with curiosity. It was a simple short one-handed sword. "Why do you ask?" He says. Though, Hebigami doesn't answer him and rather, keeps looking at the sword.

"Your level?" She asks, after a while of inspecting the sword.

"7-78, Hebigami-sama. I-I still feel the need to say, why do you ask?" Now, Hebigami leaves the sword where it was and contiues walking. KuroTetsu, witha puzzled look in his face, follows her. In another weapons stand, she stops yet again and now picks up a katana. It's hilt painted blue and with silver ornaments in the shape of a dragon.

"Mastery?" She gives the sword to the NPC tender, who happily takes it and also examines it.

"I-I reached 400 last week, aren't you proud of me, princess?!" The tender nods and then opens his mouth.

"It'll be 1 platinum." The generic NPC says, KuroTetsu's jaw drops at the price.

"Here you go." Hebigami gives away her platinum non-chalantly, though KuroTetsu still can't believe his eyes. The NPC gives her the sword and she takes it firmly between both hands. Now, after much time without answering KuroTetsu' questions, she finally turns around and with a smile on her face, she answers. "Of course I am not, you filthy bag of dirt." As if he had just been struck by cupid's arrow, KuroTetsu's face blushes and he bows down.

"Thank you, Hebigami-sama!" He says.

"Now, what do you think about this? Today, you'll be feeling the greatest pleasure ever." KuroTetsu looks at her, with sparkling eyes. You just have to do everything according to my plan, okay?"

T-they’re letting him STAY? A player-killer STAY? Esdeath’s raven fur stood on edge, the cat’s irritation sluggishly rising to its peak. The beast became more ridged, its muscles sticking out beneath its partially spotted skin. Kanade’s shrill voice and the forest’s distractions likely kept the cat from pursing further with violent intentions, for the time being. Her canines gleamed a perfect white in the sunlight as if she had made sure her weapon was perfectly tended to and cleaned before slaying her enemy.

Esdeath noticed Garnet had gestured her to follow but she was 88% sure her cover was blown, all thanks to this….dimwitted, foolish, good-for-nothing—Esdeath tried to calm her buzzing brain but it was too late. She thought this player would stick through the rough turns of this game until she realized that she might make his next rough turn the last one.

. Standing on her powerful haunches for a split second, the feline soared through the air, placing his paws on the PK’S shoulders and hurling him to the floor. The heavy cat was more than a match to the human, consider that it was too sudden to predict and she had a little more experience in the game. She knew it was impossible to actually harm him (and probably would have not despite the location) but she wanted to serve him a piece of vile cake he had cut out himself. Similar to other felines in the game, her jaws partner, drips of salvia sliding down his neck and face. A blaring roar leaves her mouth as her furry tail whipped from side to side, causing swooshing noises as it cut through air. A second roar follows it, ending with a deadly low rumble in the chest releasing vibrations that flood through both of their bodies.

Esdeath turns and trots after Garnet and Kanade as if nothing occurred between her and the Playerkiller. As a matter of fact, the feline looked quiet content, throwing a small pep to her step, seeing as the assault only range for some seconds. The player killer was left with a wet face, some torn clothes, and possibly a scare of his life. The pseudo-cat walked next to his hip. Maybe whatever was coming in the forest was not her problem but that would likely be the next stop depending on what happened next.

Charak Turned to say his thanks But he was propelled to the floor by the wight of the Feline. Generally Charak would do nothing and that's what he did. albeit with a small struggle as the cat was Quite heavy and generally Exceptionally angry at him "just like every other person on the block your not the first" Charak thought looking into the cats Eyes as it lept off. Slightly disguised Charak wiped his now Slobber covered hands On his Now Slightly ripped Cloths "well that was a Horrifying experience" Charak thought slightly terrified of the cat. or person depending on how you viewed a shifter. while most men would leave the Cat alone Charak had become increasing Interested in who the person was. and why they had to hide. Brushing himself Off he followed the Feline. he wanted more infomation and if he had to kill a boss along the way So be it.

James sighed and cracked his knuckles his first action was to cast Ice Shell on Coco, shielding her from incoming Damage for a while, since she was the weaker member of the party. And though that gave his oncoming foe some time to close the distance James wasn’t too worried, he was high enough level and had enough expirance to not even consider this a threat. Raising one hand he smiled “Ride The Lightning.” He said coldly and a lance of energy jumped from his outstretched palm and in to the onrushing Toad Vanguard, punching it back the crackling beam of power pinned it to a tree, slowly turning it in to Toad Jelly, Releasing the spell 2 seconds early to conserve Mana James yawned and snapped his fingers, summoning up another fireball, this one was again a source of light, though this time he held it in one hand.

Renbu groaned "30 minutes!? Come on! Why wait so long? What else could they possible need to do that would take that long!?" While the cat (who he was now was a player or at least player controlled) jumping that PKer had been funny, it didn't last long. "I really hope something interesting happens soon, I don't know if I can wait 30 full minutes for the boss fight to happen. I'm not even sure that these guys can wait that long; if you leave them to stew in the thought that they're going to be fighting this thing for too long, then some of them might get cold feet"

Alkharn.
Unknown Rooftop

Set across a vast landscape, a small breeze past by unnoticed by many. Those many were, as usual, too busy to care about the small things at the time like this. Both groups preparing, planning, about to fight. Honestly. They were such children. But this game as such was aimed towards that lot wasn't it? Such a pity, but he hadn't started this game in the first place because he wanted to. Was it worth thinking over? No. Not when the virtually enhanced stench surrounded the town... and him, that stench of players that hadn't bathed for weeks at least or more, or even dead monster's being dragged back. The elder's nose scrunched up slightly the lingering and pungent smell overwhelming his senses, not something he was enjoying at the moment. The fact that he wasn't apart of either of those 'groups', neither New Terror or the Liberation Group. He supposed that was a good thing at times like this, not needing to pick sides. The lithe and lanky male could simply sit back, relax, and watch as everyone around destroyed each other, while he remained perfectly unharmed. Watching chaos was fun after all. Sure, he wasn't a coward. But this particular male didn't feel the need to join in with these battles. They'd all get out eventually, and be able to go back if they wanted. So what was the issue, really? A shame really that no one ever listened to him, if only. Things might be different. Ah, but who was he kidding here. Certainly not himself.

Things always remained the same didn't they? Six months. Nothing. Absolutely nothing had seemingly changed, everyone was still stuck here like usual. And he? Well.... he was still as bored as usual. No surprise there. Despite being among the top leveled players, he still managed to find the energy to be fully and utterly bored. Maybe it was just the past few weeks that had made him this way, he hadn't been doing much after reaching the level that he had. Just wandering mainly. Still, he did have a lovely encounter with a New Terror member a few days ago, oh what fun that had been. Running like a sacred child. Then again, most if not all players here were still children weren't they? He really must be getting old to start thinking like that, geez. Even so, he had caught wind of both groups gathering, not that he had been there in person for either, but that didn't mean he hadn't heard the whispered rumors of players who had yet to make their choice. Much like he, but he wouldn't be making any choice, not if he could help it. But of course, like everything in this virtual world lately, there never was a third choice. Only two, and that choice would decide what you did with your life, be it living here for as long as you desired. Or, returning home to those you loved, and who loved you. It was a choice many didn't want to make, but in this strange world, it was all many had left. Perhaps he was one of those few. Home.... What is home? Where is home?

Blazing down upon all who looked above, an artificial sun. Covering squinting eyes with his left forearm, the elder finally shifted from his laying position, having been there for quite a few hours. It was always nice to sit with peace and quiet to watch a sun rise, no matter how fake it may be. Still sitting around all day would do him no good, no matter how much he might like the idea. It simply wasn't to be. Groaning lightly as the male in question rose to sit half way up, hands resting beside him to support his own weight during such early hours. Running one hand back through rather thin and somewhat strange looking silver hair, the tall male finally stood. The wind whipping about his form as he stood atop the very edge of the building, peering down to the streets below. Not very active. Gee, wonder why. It was fairly obvious as to why, firstly it was far to early for some. And the rest were of course split between those two groups, the ones that everyone always talked about. Kami that was getting boring fast, no one did anything else lately. Unless you were unlucky enough to still be within one of the starter towns at a lower level. Regardless, there were far other better places to be having fun, and why not watch some all out brawls while he was at it? With a single movement, the tall male safely landed on the ground, scarf still wrapped about his neck quite loosely as he soon made a amble pace towards the town's Bazar. Fully intending to find out exactly what was happening and when, and who knows, he may even get to watch the fun and action unfold. Today may not be so bad after all.

(ooc: Short, apologies to you all~)

Rose watched the PKer and the large, strangely behaving panther as they approached Garnet and was also quite surprised when the assassin wasn't turned away. Her bright green eyes blazed as she looked at the one who would willingly murder other players, but she had no authority to arrest him or send him away from the group. Was the LG really so desperate to escape that they'd associate with such people? Why had she agreed to help them anyway? Shaking her head, she too followed the procession, though at a slight distance, as she would be the front liner in the battle to come. The battle... She thought. I must stay focused. Throwing the shield onto her back, she let one hand rest casually on the hilt of her bastard sword as she sped up her pace to catch up with those she'd been following.

"Garnet." Rose's strong alto voice called out as she walked up beside him. "The three tanks are ready..." The fiery red-haired girl let him meet her gaze before she continued. "But I'm concerned about our 'backup', Gerard. He's far too inexperienced, and under-equipped, to be tanking the boss." Most would have thought twice before speaking so bluntly to the leader of one of the strongest organizations in NTO, but Rose was not most people. She only let her gaze flicker to the PKer for an instant, though her hand never left her blade.

James, Having satisfied himself that he was not about to be attacked. Pulled up his contact list. “Hmm..hmm….” He sighed flicking through it. “ah. There you are.” He said, seemingly satisfied he’d found what he was looking for. “I wonder. I bet you’re involved aren’t you?” He seemed to ask thin air, putting a call out to one of his old partners. Hoping Rose would pick up, Being as she was now involved with the Liberation Front. He’d offered her a place among his guild before, and that place still stood, however he’d made it clear he was not the biggest fan of her choice to get involved. He calmly ran through what was going on in his head. “Rose, I would assume you have some idea of what Global chat is exploding over? There are rumours flying about that both big guilds are mobilizing. Apparently they intend to go at it again over the Isle Of Departure. Well the bridge, considering they haven’t even got that close yet. Care to shed some light on what in the seven hells is going on? I’m getting Hourly requests from small parties on both sides. And you know how much that bugs me.”

He paused, drawing his staff to deal with Another of the toad fighters, Lazily side stepping its swings he proceeded to jab the fireball on the end of his staff in its face sending it dancing backwards, trying to avoid the searing flames. James snapped a command word and the fireball continued its motion from his staff chasing after the fighter, Growling something that would make a sailor blush James sent the second fireball after it from the other direction. Though most would consider that OverKill. James called it certainty.
"Sorry Dealing with some Toads out here, Taking some of the guild members fun-running."

Concentrating on her incoming opponents, she squinted her eyes, preparing to strike. They came at her and her friends avidly, with broken weapons, yet they still decided to attack. With no thought of her own saftey she jumped up swinging her doll high. Her guild partners seemed to know what would happen next. As she began to come back down from her jump, she slammed her doll over the Toad warriors head, pressing it into the ground with the power of gravity. Around the area of inpact was a small crater, it appeared that she struck, possibly, too hard...

Turning to her next enime she said. "Sorry! But you have to die now! Haha~"
"Conduct Orb!" She smiled and waved to the Toad warrior as she swung her dolly, releasing an orb of gravity that struck the monster, constricting it in its grip.

Turning back to her friends she happily smiled.
"Hee hee, finish it off guys!~"

Location: Alkharn.

The cat and the assassin followed after Garnet. Also, a guy he had seen around before, a Blood Clown, if he remembered right on his class. And lastly, they were stopped by Rose. She was as disrespectful as always, not that Garnet minded. When she raised her concerns about Gerard, he simply opened up his menu and took out a shield and sword. They were quite high level, but Garnet didn't use them because his current equipment was better, and that was the reward of a quest he had done. He didn't felt like using it, but also didn't feel like selling it, so this was the perfect opportunity to make some space in his inventory and still do something good for a noob. He handed the equipment over to Rose. The shield was pitch black, as well as the sword's hilt, and both of them looked dangerously spiky. 'Shield of the Black Spike' and 'Sword of the Black Spike' were their names. Not very creative, yeah, but that's the name they came with. "Give this to him. I trust his raw talent, I am pretty sure he'll become an excellent player in the future. Too bad we'll already be out of here for him to see the results of that." He says, with his always present poker face. When he turned around, he saw that they had indeed gathered quite a crowd. "Anyhow, if any of you is interested on the strategy meeting, follow us to the tent over there. We'll sort out the last details of our strategy there, before leaving." Kanade slightly turned around and directed a kind smile the way of the others, then faced forward again. She and Garnet continued walking to the designated tent from before.

Garnet opened it with both of his robust arms and let Kanade pass before him, though he wasn't as chivalrous with the others, getting into the tent before letting them pass. He crosses his arms and comes face to face with other of the higher ups in the LB. "Now, what have you got for me?" Garnet asks as he looks down on the map set across the table. Little plastic thingies are spread all around the map, one indicating from where they will enter and their objective, the boss. A route has also been traced, one in where they will not face as many enemies, though the ones they will face will be rather high level. Though, that's why they are bringing so many people in the first place.

"Everything should go as planned. Of course, as long as New Terror doesn't interfere in our plans." A middle aged man says, while still looking the map. "The problem with this is that the forst finishes about a kilometer before the bridge. It is so suddenly cut and leaves so much open space there that, no matter what we do, if the New terror comes, there'll be no way to evade them." He says, with his hand on his chin, trying to think this through. Another man, blonde haired and heavily armored as Garnet, standing beside him, puts on a confident smile.

"Don't get so flustered now, Myriad. Look on the bright side. This also mean that if the New Terror indeed decide to attack us, then there's no way they can ambush us." He seems quite confident of his words, though now Garnet butts in.

"IF they let us get out of the forest first, though. They can still hide in the forest, don't you think? It'd be bad if our forces and inventory were depleted even before reaching the boss. If we can actually reach it, that is." Kanade looks at Garnet with worried eyes. Garnet's expression darkens.

"Are you saying we might lose against them? That's impossible. Their numbers are nothing against us." The blonde man from before says.

"It's not a matter of numbers, but rather..." The middle aged man starts.

"We don't have anyone at Hebigami's level. The unfair level system of this game leaves us somewhat at a disadvantage, and her henchmen won't let her fall behind critical zones. So..." Garnet finishes.

"We need some way of either defeating her or separate her from the group. She isn't the type to take a bait, though."

"Anyhow, we can think about that when the time comes. Look at the time, we should already be setting out." Garnet is already making his way out of the tent as he says so. Just as he approaches the crowd waiting for them, another announce is heard.

WE WILL BE LEAVING MOMENTARILY. PLEASE FOLLOW GARNET. The voice says and Garnet, making his cape flutter as he speaks, gives the order.

"This is the moment of truth, people! Let's march onwards to the Island and forge our own exit out of here!" Many others unite again in a cheer. He turns around, his cape fluttering behind him again. The crowd, or the majority of them, follows him.

---

Location: Forest of Countless Battles.

The Liberation Group started advancing through the Forest of Countless Battles, a dangerous place to be, with high level monsters roaming around. However, that's exactly why they had chosen that route. These high level monsters are nothing to fool around with, even Hebigami would be careful around them. The Liberation Group walks through the forest, everyone, or at least, the most part of it, seem to be rather on edge, just waiting for something to come over and tear them apart. Garnet leads the group, Kanade following closely. In his back, Garnet carries a spear, with his shield strapped to his forearm.

Soon enough, something falls from the trees and lands in front of them. Garnet instantly takes his spear out.



"It is a Forest Wyvern, people. It isn't much to worry about." Even if he says so, the monster lets out a sharp cry and a health bar appears over its head, as well as number after the words level; 82. "Or maybe not..." Garnet braces for an impact, when the Wyvern turns around and strikes him full force with its tail. However, Garnet's HP went down just a little bit thanks to his shield. He stands up and points at the monster with his spear. "CHARGEEEE!"

---

Location: Alkharn.
Faction: New Terror

Hebigami returned to her house-turned-bar and slammed the door open. "Alright, bastards, I am here! Let's move out!" She says. KuroTetsu follows close behind, with the katana she bought earlier tight between his hands. "We'll surprise those idiots!" Hebigami says, with a big, evil smile on her face. Everybody takes up their weapons and start marching outside, some more willingly than others. "Pick up the pace! Or I will train my skills in YOUR bodies!" Everyone starts walking faster, almost trotting, to avoid becoming Hebigami's personal torture toy.

---

Location: In front of the bridge leading to 'The Island of Departure'.

Outside of the forest and in front of the bridge, Hebigami and her minions wait for the Liberation Group to clear through the Forest of Countless Battles, since the idiots didn't knew of Hebigami's shortcut. How would they, though? Being accessible by only high-level players, she is one of the few people right now who can access it without problems. Everybody is makign idle chat as they wait for the Liberation Group to arrive. Hebigami impatiently taps her finger over her arm, as well as her shoe on the floor. "How long can they take?! Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to take that shortcut, since we missed out on the action. She lets out a sigh. Then, she turns around. "Guys, you can go and do whatever you want until they arrive, since they seem to be taking their sweet time inside there." Honestly, who makes a lady wait like this?

Rose accepted the trade, watching the two black pieces disappear into her inventory. 'Black Spike' set was nothing to laugh at, though it was out leveled around 40, but the red-haired warrior still had her doubts. This time, however, she chose not to press the matter and simply nodded at Garnet's judgement.

Turning away from the group of followers, a tiny icon suddenly appeared in the center of Rose's vision. "Incoming call... James." An armored finger quickly swiped accept and the voice of her previous party member echoed from the air before her.

eddieddi said
“Rose, I would assume you have some idea of what Global chat is exploding over? There are rumours flying about that both big guilds are mobilizing. Apparently they intend to go at it again over the Isle Of Departure. Well the bridge, considering they haven’t even got that close yet. Care to shed some light on what in the seven hells is going on? I’m getting Hourly requests from small parties on both sides. And you know how much that bugs me.”

The knight chuckled at the man who had not changed since the earliest days of the game. "How'd you know I's be involved? LG has assembled a couple hundred at Alkharn to take on the first departure boss." She spoke while she walked, making her way back towards the other two tanks while her bright green eyes scanned the gathered masses. "They're not the most organized lot... But you know how Garnet is: mind only on victory. Wait, you're saying that New Terror is headed here? There's no way they could catch up with us unless they were waiting ahead of time..." Rose suddenly realized that something wasn't right, looking back to the LG tent, but she knew Garnet would never listen to such worries regarding his greatest rival. "Hmmm... Why would they move now...?" She spoke to herself as the sounds of battle disrupted the call. "What- Are you in combat?"

eddieddi said
"Sorry Dealing with some Toads out here, Taking some of the guild members fun-running."

Rose sighed and shook her head, James knew how much she hated people getting distracted during a fight, no matter how easy. "Well if you're right, and the two groups really will meet... That bridge'll be a warzone. We're heading out any minute..." As if on cue, the call to move went up and everyone started walking towards the exit to town. "I don't like what's happening, but i can't back out now... Especially with the lives of so many innocent players on the line. Listen, I've got to go but let me know if the Tea Party comes around. I've got a bad feeling..." With a final 'Goodbye' she ended the call and silently wondered if that man would come. She knew how much he hated the two groups, LG and NT, but she didn't think he'd stay away when such a battle was brewing.

---

When the Wyvern fell from the tree, it landed only a few dozen meters from Rose who stood in the front line. She'd been wary the entire walk, knowing well the dangers of this particular area, and so wasted no time in bringing her shield to bear as the creature's tail lashed out. Garnet soaked the blow, giving Rose the chance to advance with a shout. Raising her shield while dashing activated [Line Breaker] and she felt her body shoot forward towards the foe. She collided against the side of its massive foot, causing a great shudder to go through the beast though it resisted her stun, and made one great slash against its scaly hide. She barely saw a tick come off its health bar but her attacks weren't meant to damage as the monster whipped its head around and bore down on her.

Charak Heaved up a Rucksack That seemed a little large for him. it was a basic store of items for all his needs. he had a spare sword and a couple of potions on him. as well as one or 2. small meals. case he got hungry. walking through the crowds Charak Took off close behind the tanks that forerunned the entire "Army". Jogging to keep up the marching Pace they started to leave the gates Charak looked at the man from earlier Who was scowling at him. The man was running a small group of 5-6 people each one of them where looking at Charak with pure hatred. "come at me if you want to be reset to nothing" Charak Mouthed towards them. the Muscle bound man Tried to run at Attack him right their and then but was held back by his buddy's Charak turned Sighed as he had to run again to get back to the front of the crowd but then stopped Before slowly making his way over to the cat from earlier. Lowing his voice he asked "who are you" before his head Jerked up at the sound of the tree rustling

Falling down from the tree was a Wyvern Level 82. One of the tanks had Thrown themselfs Forward but was dealing minimal damage. Charak Scowled "Great we are gonna be here all day Hitting its leg... Screw this Im bored already" Charak said as he pushed through the Crowd People stared at him like he was making a death threat "level 82 this Kid is insane" A woman said. Charak ignored her Basic strategy of mmo was for the tanks to soak up the damage while the others Deal damage Unsheathing his daggers He Charged forward. ahead of some other people Who where also joining the fray. As the Wyvern Turned round to strike down the tank that had Aggravated it with the minute blow. Charak Started Hacking at its Side. "1. 2. 1. 2. Now" His Daggers Glowed for a second as he Used Eviscerate. The wyverns health took a Reasonable Beating From the attack not the large hellish amount of damage normally used by assassins because it was a higher level then him But it was enouth as 3-6 more people joined hte assault "need a little help here" Charak Shouted as He was Battered backwards by the Wyvern's Tail he took Less Damage then he expected as it was a Glancing blow. But it still took a bit off his health. Slightly Pissed Charak Forced himself back into the Frey... his eyes Trying not to get distracted by the shimmers of blades.

A blur of black hair and pale skin, with a black cape flapping behind, broke out of the forest and slowed to match the pace of the nearby members of the Liberation Group’s small army. Mercury let out a relieved sigh. It looked like he was in the clear for now. The player ahead of Mercury stopped, and Mercury walked right into the other player’s back.

“Ow, sorry,” he said as he rubbed his head. The other player barely took notice of his presence. That was good.

Looking to see why the group had stopped, Mercury just shook his head. Oh well, not like he was going to be fighting this enemy anyway. A group this big could probably take on a whole group of strong monsters without much trouble. If they couldn’t do that much, then they wouldn’t have any chance against the bridge guardian.

Mercury’s eyes were drawn to a woman wearing a red cloak who was one of the first to react to the wyvern’s sudden attack. She attacked with a shield and sword. Some sort of warrior class then? Swordsmaster, or perhaps a spellsword simply not using magic? It was almost impossible to correctly guess another player’s class just by looking at them, what with there literally being an infinite possibility of classes, but Mercury did it anyway.

It was this player that Mercury cast “Time’s Favor” on, making a blue magic circle glow momentarily around her body. Her movements became much faster than they had been just a second ago. There was no need for these players to have to struggle against mobs when they would likely all be killed by the bridge boss anyway.

A creaking sound followed by a sharp crack came from a ways behind the crowd. It was the sound of a tree being pushed aside by the uncoordinated hand of a lumbering Stone Golem. Seriously!? How the hell did that thing still have agro on him after chasing him for so long!? And Mercury's own Haste had worn out a second ago too. The dark haired mage pushed further towards the center of the large group to hide better. The golem had been annoyingly hard to kill alone, but it was weaker than the wyvern.

These Liberation Group guys could deal with Mercury’s pursuer and any other mobs that appeared while taking him right to where he needed to be. All he had to do was keep his head down and keep pace. The trick would be separating from the group again before Hebigami and her idiot lackeys started killing indiscriminately. It wouldn’t do to have to explain why he was traveling in a Liberation Group party.