On a lonely island stands ancient, forgotten ruins, like several others that have been spread across the world. The heroes of this tale all find themselves having sailed to it, believing the Shackled Relic to exist here, and within hours of their arrival - they all find the many entrances to the slowly decaying building, though none of them even know of each other just yet. Instead, they all start their journey inside, being lead by luck or fate to the central chamber. At first, they don't even notice each other as the shining orb in the middle of the room draws their attention. At last! The artifact that will grant them one wish, but alas their attention snaps. For one reason or another they find themselves suddenly and acutely aware of one another - having all entered the hall from different doorways. Before they can truly comprehend what's happening, the relic in the middle shatters like glass, it's light fading away into nothing. It's leaves them all feeling strange.. and somehow.. connected.

---

Sofia looks back as she watches the boat float near the shore. She had managed to convince a merchant's ship to bring her this way, though at a considerable cost. She wasn't too fond of using her coin like this, but even the chance of this artifact being real was worth the risk. After all she had already found one artifact, so it was not beyond reasoning to think more existed, especially one so powerful. Still, there was no telling what this adventure would hold and she was aware enough to know it would end in empty hands, a fulfilled wish, or fighting off some rusty golem - all equally possible. Letting out a slight sigh, she started to make her way to the distant building. The sun was just poking out from the horizon and the island was fairly cold due to the sea breeze, but she sort of preferred it.

Tracking across the beach soon lead into a beautiful forest before breaking away to the ruins, which almost looked like some sort of lost temple, the middle almost trying to reach out to the skies. She wasn't sure if Vis existed or even if people of past ages worshiped multiple deities, but the place brought a sort of strange peace to her mind. The expedition inside was fairly quiet, with only the distant songbirds giving away to any sort of life on this island, and no danger peeked it's head up as she made her way towards the middle. Before long though, she had found it.

It was gorgeous, shining brightly above the pedestal, as if it's light was a fire on a snowy night - gods, that made her feel good. She quickly wondered if this was it, the object that would grant her any wish, only limited by her imagination. She felt a tinge of guilt though, wondering if her journey was selfish. At first she had justified wanting to bring down Zeph, to wish him away, for the good of the lands... but was it vengeance? 'No. No!' She clenched her fist. 'I'm doing it so she didn't die in vain!' she thought to herself, steeling herself for what may happen. However before she could take more than two steps, a sharp awareness reached her mind, nearly forcing herself to look around the room. There, she saw six other people, all coming from different sides of the giant hall. 'What? There are oth-'

Without explanation, the orb in the middle shattered, causing a deep humming echo before finally fading into nothingness. It left the room only lit by the light of the sun through the ceiling and a strange quietness to everything. Sofia tensed, reaching for her hilt as her fingers clasped around it tightly. 'What the hell is going on?' she thought, nearly scowling as she looked at the others across the room. Though she felt a mix of frustration, confusion, and cautiousness, she also couldn't help but have the strangest feeling possible - that these strangers were somehow, suddenly, like her brothers and sisters.

"We are almost there Sir." Orn got off his ass and stood up looking out across the water to see the island sticking up like a sore on the skin of the ocean. "Ugly ass little island. Better have what Im looking for so that I can make haste back to my beLOVED WRESTA!" he said increasing to a yell as he finished, all the rowers and his shipguards hollered and yelled with him after he finished. They all stared at the quickly approaching land. "Everyone stays here but me, I must earn this myself." declared Ornstein as he dawned his helmet and grabbed his darling spear. The boat hit land as the rowers beached it. Orn's armored feet were the only ones to hit the beach as he stood and sauntered his way towards the temple on the mountain, his men shouting words of encouragement as we walked away.

Ornstein trekked his way to the temple muttering curse words the whole way as he cut through undergrowth and tried not killing anything out of impatience or frustration, then finally he was at the door, a secluded door, around the back of the temple on the right hand side. He had to cut thick vines out of his way before gaining entry through his backdoor. When the task was done he stepped carefully into the big room and down the stairs until he was on the main floor with a large glowing ball of energy like a candle in the middle of a pitch black room. He stared in wonder and took a few steps forward before he saw movement out of the corner of his eye, turning and dropping into a defensive stance, Lance drawn and ready to attack.

Then, Seemingly out of random the glowing object just~ Burst, like a bubble in the waves. Orn whipped his head to look to see what had happened and was only overwhelmed by the feeling of attachment and feeling for what seemed to be the not so stranger people in the room. He felt like his soul had been bound to something, the same something that the rest of the people were bound to. When his vision returned he found no object where there was once the light, however he found himself almost knowing the other in the room despite the fact he had never seen them before. Well, he might have seen one before but surely never met.

At that very moment, he could feel the others thinking the same thing he was, and then he was suddenly by one of their sides, a small girl, with a sword and shield. He could feel what she felt and know what she thought. He saw what she say and heard everything that she heard. It was only for a little while. He was back in his body again, then felt as if each one of the "strangers" did the same thing to him that he did to the girl with the sword and shield.

Then everything was still and silent, for what seemed like and eternity, He just stood speechless and in awe. Then as if he heard himself think. "What the hell happened." and he heard a voice reply.

Ariah's journey to the mysterious island was actually a particularly comfortable one as well as a deliberate one. Having chartered and bought passage from the mainland aboard a passanger ship destined for a rather scenic spot along the coast of the mainland. It was merely a matter of offering a small payment to the navigator in exchange for a "scenic view of the local islands" on the way to their destination. Following that it was merely a waiting game aboard a pleasure ship... truly it would be a long and hard journey.

Waking up from his bed and groggily looking around the room to see a few now empty bottles as well as a rather underdressed woman. Given is headache and the fac that last night was such a blur he believed it would be safe to assume they had a wild night. So after a brief minute and after his brain quit spinning he left the bed to retrieve his clothes and then gear. Now reequipt and already pushing back his hangover he gave his currently unamed companion a slight peck on the cheek before heading up to the top deck.

His destination was in sight and that meant it was now or never. The boat drew in closer and closer to the shore and just as it started to pull away Ariah leapt from the ship towards the water. However, before he hit the surface he changed fro being just a man, to soemthing augmented by magic, shifting his body to incredible speeds and pressing off of the water so fast that it was solid while he was in contact. Before he knew it he was back int eh normal flow of time jumping off of the fater's surface to gather up for another surge. Turning into a silver blur to dash alog the water's surface before jumping at the last moment in order to gather his energy. Repeating this process another four times he made it to the island's edge. Taking a moment to gather his thoughts and pick up his energy reserves. Believe it or not moving so fast that you treat a liquid as a solid for the sake of transporation is exhausting!

However, once his energy was back he started to draw more towards the ruins located on the island and the rumored treasure within. The jungle wasn't a bother to him and as he continued on without incident it made him wonder about what would lie ahead.

Then he was there... At the apex of the ruins and as grand at the destroyed and overgrown structure was, it was still beautiful and imposing. Much like on the boat... now or never. Ariah walked into the ruins, moving into the dark hallways that were hidden from the sun's gaze. Holding up his hand Ariah summoned forth a small burst of Arcana to roll around his left hand, glowing a sharp silver with a vibrant blue core to be held within his grasp. The light of his magic leading the way, he proceeded onward.

That was when he saw it, the relic that he had spent the better part of a year looking for. Resting on a pedistal in the middle of a grand antichamber. Almost drawn it it like a moth to a flame, Ariah walked into the room, letting the magic from his hand fide away as the light of the relic gave him all he needed. Coming closer to his goal it almost seemed to reach out to him... opening his mind to a world of possibilities. Yet as Ariah thought of what could be the room shattered much like his dreams and the relic. The echo of energy pulsing through the room leaving him lost for words and thoughts. NOTHING happened! It just... broke.

It was in that moment he went something. Looking around he saw others all standing just as dumstruck and heart broken as he was. Whats more is that he felt them. Not like in a metaphorical way, but in a literal and almost physical way. In the world of magic and particularly his magic he felt a similar feeling to these people like when he controled things with his telekinesis. A connection held together by something deep.

That was when he heard it, 'what the Hell is going on?' It sounded clear as day, but differnet. Like it didn't come from one point, but all around. Maybe it was the room bouncing voices around. Regardless the females voice was heard and it warrented a response, "How's about you tell me! I wasn't the one to destroyed the relic!" He shouted back out loud, looking to try and guage the situation with all these strangers who felt so... familiar.

It's okay... it's okay... breathe. This is for your family. Family... family...

"Ya alrigh' 'ere, miss?"

Mila was brought from her thoughts by the sound of her guide. Bright blue eyes shifted over to the voice. A young man, probably too young. Wide eyed and freckled with dirty clothing. The man who she could only assume to be his father worked on the rowing while the boy mostly gave directions. Regardless, the boy was as cute as a puppy... in a weird sort of way.

Putting on an easy smile, Mila responded. "Don't worry, dearie. A lil' water isn't gonna scare me." She held a light drawl, voice naturally a bit deeper and huskier than you'd expect a woman to have. But, it was what she was born with and besides... she definitely knew how to work it to her advantage.

She watched with an almost predatory glee as the young boy flushed. She leaned back in the boat, satisfied with the reaction. Even IF she was an older woman by some standards, she still knew how to make the boys flush. And the boy's father? Now THAT was hilarious.

As it seemed, the older gentleman was a... frequent visitor to her place of work. And she vaguely recalled him being quite... intoxicated and usually making quite... lewd gestures towards her and the other dancers. It seems he remembered too if his inablility to look her in the eye and his 'kind' insistance that it would only take half-price to row her to her destination.

Sometimes I love being me, She thought casually. She wasn't being narcassistic, simply... thankful.

But, she didn't have much time to relax when the father called out, "Land up ahead!" Mila immediately straightened, uncrossing her legs and leaning forward as she looked towards the island. The island that would hopefully give her what she desired. What her family needed.

Stop the problem before it arises. Those were her thoughts as the feelings of worry crept up her spine. If she kept said words in the forefront of her mind, she's sure she would do fine. Hopefully.

The next few minutes were a blur. They arrived on the island and she could faintly recall her instructing the pair to wait for her. She took a second to familarize herself with the solid ground before marching with determination towards the cave. Well, more like a temple surrounded by ruins but who was she to judge?

Regardless of any skepicism she might've had earlier, being around such history and mystery did catch her attention. Such unfamilar territory was enough to send a shiver through her body. She was excited. Genuinely excited. Whether it be for the prospect of the wish or just the excitement of something NEW for once. She wasn't sure. But, she also didn't really care.

Unable to stop the soft humming that betrayed her excitement, she jogged through the temple in order to reach the mental. She kept repeating the wish in her mind, making sure she knew every word.

I want my family to have naturally long and happy lives. Protect them from tragedy until it is their time to pass. Please give them good will and good fortune... they need it. More than I do, at least.

Repeating it in her head, she thought she was prepared as soon as she entered the main room. However, she wasn't.

At all.

The light was just so... bright. It illuminated the room and, for some reason or another, Mila couldn't remove her eyes from it. Years of vigilance in order to remain steps ahead of grabby men made her aware of other people in the room. But, she didn't care. She just felt so... drawn... in.

Shatter!

The suddenness of it made her gasp, reflexively covering her eyes. But, it was only then, during the silence that remained afterwards, that she became very aware of... everyone else. It was... difficult to explain. It was almost like another sense. Just on the edge of her mind, she could feel these other people there, rattling around. She got this strange inclination from feelings and thoughts that weren't her own.

Hand going to her head once the first voice arrived, the two others that followed it made her take a few steps back towards the hallway she came from. H-have I gone mad? That was her first thought, her left hand going to her head while her right moved to the skirt of her dress, gripping it firmly. At that point, a small part of her was glad she'd chosen to wear her casual wear instead of her 'work outfit/fancy-wear'. While the slit would've been nice, the length would've just slown her down. And at this point, she was pretty much on the verge of fleeing and not sticking around, her curious nature could bugger off for all she cared.

Kairos Threadbare

It was early in the morning as the rays of the sun peaked over the horizon, illuminating the silhouette of the lonely island against the ocean blue. ”Land Ahoy!” announced the look-out, gathering the attention of the others members of the small band, all eyes becoming drawn to the looming shadows cast by the time-worn structure. “That the place? Looks as gloomy as a crypt” Orion muttered as he turned to face Kairos before asking ”You still up for this Kairos? It’s only a rumor and it sounds far to good to be true”. The group of Soldiers had overheard the rumors of a strange artifact only a single derelict island sitting in the middle of sea and had managed to narrow its location down to this solitary island based on the drunken rambles from sailors. Given the short time of shore leave they had been granted in respite from the brewing conflict and in dire need of some adventuring, they had decided to investigate further and now found themselves slowly approaching the island in the faint hours of the morning, long before most trading ships would arrive.

”Come on now, of course he would be, that place looks perfect for our good old Reaper” Savin said with a chuckle, earning a few laughs from the group. Taking a more serious face he focused his attention back on the island “Still if the rumours are true there could be a whole host of monsters in there, or nothing at all - hard to sort fact from fiction when the storyteller is drunk. We’ll drop you off close to the Island Kairos and pick you up from the same spot this evening as the sunsets. Scout carefully and if there’s anything you can’t handle wait for us and we’ll go in as group.” Savin reiterated - they had gone over the plan a few times now, given that Kairos was the stealthiest of the group and the rumors could turn out to be duds, it had been decided he would do a preliminary scouting while the rest of the group chased other rumours of adventure - if the ruins turned out to be empty they would move on and if there was anything of interest, they would delve in deeper.

Over the next half hour - the group passed by the beach, dropping Kairos off and established a point of return for later that evening. Taking a moment to watch the ship sail off, Kairos attention returned to the task at hand, looking into the heart of the island the tops of the ruins reached above the dense foliage of the forest, providing a landmark for him to trek towards. Drawing his Scythe Kairos made his way up the beach, the soft sand shifting beneath his feet before giving way to the harder dirt that marked the edge of the forest. As the sound of the waves gently crashing across the shore fading into the distance, they were replaced by the morning cries of birds that marked the dawn of the new day as Kairos edged further into the wild growth. Despite the gnarling forest sprawl that twisted and turned before him, the towering ruins in the distance ensured his path was true.

As the ruins drew closer, the forest parted to open territory ’No doubt when this place was still inhabited, they kept the plants at bay from their temple. Doesn’t seem to be lasting with them gone though Kairos thought to himself, stray grass and vines having crept along what must have once been a pathway, seeping into the ground and temple itself. Following the path, Kairos made sure to quieten his approach, the soft disturbing of gravel and stone hard to hear over the bird cries that had now began to echo around the island. Reaching the outer wall, Kairos moved towards a large crack in the exterior, the stone having been carved open like a wound - revealing the interior of the building bare for him to see. Faint echo’s sounded throughout the building, cause Kairos to grip his weapon tighter ’Perhaps it’s a stray animal or perhaps I am not the only explorer on this day’.

Quickly vaulting inside - Kairos moved quickly out from the sunlight as a gust of wind washed in through the gap, its howling call swirling deep into the heart of the temple. Pausing for a moment, Kairos then grinned to himself ’If there’s anything of value it would be at the heart of the temple - seems these bigger corridors are designed to funnel towards that location’ he concluded as he peered down the passage the wind had surged through. Of course, such a conclusion would mean if there was anyone else in this ancient ruins they would no doubt be following such a path as well, leading to an inevitable conflict at the centre. Moving swiftly, Kairos followed the pathway, occasionally guided by a gust of the howling wind until he reached the heart of the fortress.

As he rounded the final corner his eyes immediately caught the relic and caused him to halt. Right at the core of the structure, nestled on an ornate pedestal was a relic that radiated magic. The divine glow seemed to illuminate the entire room with its strange hue, overshadowing the skylight of the room. Glancing around and marvelling at the sights and shadows cast by the radiant orb - Kairos suddenly noticed less carved shapes among the stone. Putting his urge to be dazzled by the object on hold, his attention flickered rapidly through the faint objects - he could not make out all of them but a few definitely looked humanoid and one had already approached the object. ’So there were others - a shame for them if they were seeking that relic. Only one of us will be using that and I’ll prove that it should be me if any of them want to contest it Kairos mused as he withdrew the Scythe and took up an aggressive stance - moving towards the centre.

His approach only lasted a few steps before the glow of the room shifted ever so slightly. In that instance, as the entire atmosphere of the room seemed to warp for but a second, the orb suddenly shattered - the radiant glow fading into nothing as the skylight once more resumed its job of illumination. A flurry of thoughts rushed in confusion as though multiple parts of his own mind attempted to determine what had happened. His eyes narrowed at the figure in the centre - they had been the closest to the orb when it shattered, and another voice from the other side of the chamber declared the central figure as responsible for its destruction ’Or perhaps they already declared their wish, consuming the relic in the process! Kairos pondered, taking a moment before adding his voice to the conversation ”I suggest you explain yourself Miss - seems quite a few of us were after this artifact and I doubt any of us are keen to leave without an explanation of what the hell you just did

It had been a decent trip to the island, sailing in the smuggler's boat that had carried her there, but it had not been too hard tyo arrange as well. Paying off a few smugglers to get her to the island with a few of her savings had worked. That and the small scare tactic of summoning one or two skeletons in front of them had helped them lower the price for her. Such was the physical price she had to pay to arrange getting herself to this location...and a great step closer to saving her mother. Yet she knew these men would not return even as they had sailed away from the island in a hurry, not after seeing what she could do. A necromancer. A witch who could raise the dead and channel spirits. An outcast of society in current times. But even if they were obviously not coming back for her, trying to make a raft of some sort and to row it back with the help of a few low-quality undead would not be the worst idea.

Indeed, even if she was stuck here somehow as well, at least if she could get that wish of hers it....it would be worth it all the same as well. Just to know that she would not be dying on anyone's watch, and that her family could stay held together as they had been before.

Glancing back after watching the smuggler's boat disappear in this distance, the bodysuit-clad necromancer turned around and looked towards her destination, her red eyes flitting over the structure itself for a moment to take things in. A light sigh emanated from her lips as she finally began her march towards the the grand set of ruins, all towering and majestic like an ancient palace, even whilst the designs and architecture was coated in plants and vines that had taken over some many years ago. It itself was an artifact of its time, lost and forgotten to many, ignored and left to rot like a corpse in a grave, and yet according to the information she had managed to get this also held within it a greater relic than the building itself. A relic with a dragon's soul shackled within it, capable of granting a wish for the one who acquired it.

Such a thing should have been taken years ago if it had such power, yet despite this she had found no stories of it having ever been taken in years past. Perhaps others feared there possible being a curse upon it, or perhaps they feared some other ancient magic protecting the great power this artifact held? Whatever the case, she had heard rumor of more than one person seeking this relic other than herself. No names were mentioned, and it was possible that rumors were floating about as well that led to such things being said. Still, chances could not be taken if anyone else were vying for a wish of their own. She had to be ready to fight, ready to claim her prize as soon as she could before others tried.

Finally leaving the beaming rays of the sun behind her, Nina walked into one of the dark, grand halls that led into the building. Etched designs or word or symbols lined the inside walls as she walked through the darkness with a sense of purpose in each step, yet she could not understand these words for the life of her. Perhaps an ancient language of some sort? A warning to interlopers? She could not know for sure, but despite this she kept moving forward. The cool dampness of the building seemed to caress her somewhat with its thick but soothing embrace, and her heart beat seemed to grow louder in her ears as she took step after step. Her bow instinctively came up, and arrow already nocked and ready to be fired already as she heard echoes in the distance the closer she came to the very center, the place where the relic perhaps resided.

Yet as she came upon the great central room, Nina's attention was ripped away from the other sounds and onto the magnificence of the relic itself. Golden rings with a soft, glowing center of pure light. Its rays were like unto that of the gentle rays of the full moon, but with a greater brightness to these rays than the moon would normally possess. Her bow lowered a bit as she gazed upon the light of this orb, until movements in the room made out of the corner of her eye drew her attention away for a moment. Six other people also stood in the room. Six. Her brows furrowing, and bow being raised up slightly more, Nina prepared to open her mouth to speak to the others.

Then it happened. Before she could even utter a word, the relic shattered, its deep hum echoing through the empty and green-conquered halls before fading to a solemn and sudden silence. No longer did its glow grace this room and those in it, but now instead a few rays of the sun pierced into the gloom of the ruins and around where the relic had once been. Right before her eyes...right before her eyes this relic had shattered and abandoned them all the the gloom. It had...abandoned her mother to a certain death. Nina herself had heard no wishes being made, saw none touch the relic itself, which only made the situation strange, and yet this was not the only strange thing about this.

In place of suspicion that was in her was the strange feelings of familiarity she felt when now looking upon these strangers. It was like some kind of connection, akin to when she would channel spirits. Yet these were not the dead, but the living. She could tell that with a deal of ease on her part. That was then the voices began to echo out as well, the first she perceived as being a female voice that echoed in her own head, saying 'What the hell happened.'. Once gain it was like talking to a spirit, before two more voices echoed out aloud as two others seemed to speak up, their words a response to the same exact phrase she had heard in her head.

"I don't think she did a thing, though perhaps we've all been affected by some spell, maybe a protection placed on the relic?" Nina said aloud, joining her voice to the chorus in defiance of the sudden accusation towards the gray-haired girl of having broken the relic, "Unless one of you wished for at least some of us to hear other people's thoughts or something of the sort."

It was a guess based on her own experiences, but she could not say for sure that this affected everyone here or the like. It was strange, more than strange if she were to be frank about the matter. She was still trying to grasp just what had happened to the relic, why it had broken and such things if nothing else, and why she and two other seemed to be able to hear the thoughts of another. She had no such a ability herself, if that was one thing she could say she knew for sure about this situation. Or perhaps those two that had spoken up had the ability to listen to thoughts? Pursing her lips for a moment in frustration, Nina let out another light sigh while keeping her bow at the ready to be pulled up and fired if needed.

'What happened to the relic, though? It is quite the situation this is becoming, though...' the necromancer thought to herself on the side as she waited to see what would happen.

Lee lay on a makeshift hammock he had set up on the deck of the ship. "The Deliverance" what a fitting name, as it was this ship would deliver him from this cruel curse. In the distance past the fog bank he could hear the sounds of the waves striking against the hulls of other ships. "Well, looks like my "exclusive" source wasn't very exclusive or that big a secret... Looks like I'll have competition to find this relic. Although that won't matter that wish will be mine" Lee commented as he started to roll out of the hammock. It wasn't long before one of the crew had come up to report that they were nearing the location he had been given. It wasn't that hard to convince the crew of the Deliverance to give him passage. Lee was to be the scout find the treasures hidden on the Island take his one treasure then lead the crew to any other treasure that might be on the island. Soon enough the ship broke through the fog bank that mysteriously surrounded the Island, none of the other ships Lee had heard were in sight meaning they most likely had already dropped off their adventurers and went on their way. Meaning Lee was behind in this treasure hunt.

As soon as the ship got to shallow waters Lee dived off the ship swimming to shore and the ship itself quickly turned to retreat into the for bank until Lee gave the signal that it was safe to return. Once on shore Lee continued not to waste time rushing into the forest looking for any sign of the relic he searched for. He quickly found a clue, the sent of gold and other precious metals along with that of sandstone coming from within the forest. Altering his course Lee hurried to the temple. Once inside Lee was once again faced with a maze but instead of following his nose he had to follow his gut as the smells inside the temple were misleading. After a bit of fumbling around the temple Lee finally came to a hallway his goal in sight. The Relic lay before him still untouched. As he approached Lee caught a bit of movement and as his hand reached down for his hilt the Artifact shattered.

Within a few moments it seemed Lee's life had once again changed, as he looked around he not only noticed six others in the room, but he somehow felt connected to them. And it didn't take long for them to start arguing and blaming each other for the Relic's fate but Lee stayed quiet trying to quell the rage at loosing his chance to return his life to how it had once been. His hand remained at his hilt but he did not draw the weapon at this time. Instead he waited to see what would transcribe next.

Sofia tensed as the others broke from their silence, only to see an older man standing next to her, looking down at her with a confusing gleam to his wizened eyes. It seemed to last both for several minutes and yet happened in the blink of an eye and he was gone. Soon the surprise of the situation wore off just enough to cause her to relax a little, some of the others calling out to her as if she had somehow made the relic shatter - probably because she was physically the closest. Some felt fear, being overwhelmed, but most of the emotions flooding her mind was anger.. though it was strange. It was not like it made her feel anger, but rather like she was able to feel the emotion by proxy, like some sort of advanced empathy. Slowly loosing the grip on her blade, she stood straight as her eyes scanned the others present.

At first, she didn't respond, not even mentally. Instead, she turned her focus to where the artifact had been and decided to continue walking towards where it had been moments ago. She figured they'd let her, since a few assumed she had taken it's gift for herself, perhaps even waiting to hear her explain herself on why she tore their dreams away from them. As she reached the pedestal, she ran her fingers across the surface, prying at it softly, wondering if there was perhaps a hidden switch or lever. Nothing. A light sigh escaped her lips - her wish was gone too. 'Back to doing things the hard way..'

The swordswoman turned towards the others briefly, suddenly and without knowing how, visiting each of them in a strangely intuitive out of body experience. She got to see them up close, only for a second, but she felt like she was the first to do this - to all of them anyways - the old man was truly the first. Drawing in a breath, she called out loud enough for all of them to hear. "I don't know what you think I did, but I'm just as surprised as you are. I came here seeking answers to a problem.. and like you.. will be leaving without any. Instead.." Her shoulders slumped slightly. "I'll just have to go back to doing things the hard way. Who even knows if this artifact was a wish-granter." Pursing her lips together for a moment, she hardly wasted any time in moving onwards from the experience, stepping away from the pedestal and towards the door she came from. 'I don't know what the hell it was..' Glancing briefly to Mila, sensing the fear. 'I don't even know how I was standing next to them all, like that. Did we all get that?'

Kairos Threadbare

Despite the pandemonium of the situation, as an uneasy and tense silence settled into the air, as Kairos quickly glanced between the gathered crowd. Emotions seemed to spark between the group as the air almost felt as though as it was alive with the feelings of each individual, Kairos blocking out the wayward thoughts and feelings as he felt the grip of his Scythe. Despite the tension he dared not raise the weapon, no one else had been brave enough to make a hostile act and being the first could easily draw the ire of everyone currently gathered. ’No, for now we wait and see what everyone else does’. Movement from the centre of the room turned his attention back to the woman who had been closest to the artifact when it had shattered.

With her commanding the attention of each individual thanks to the central proximity she currently held, Kairos took a moment to turn his attention inwards as the rush of various emotions still seemed to hang in the atmosphere as an almost infecting influence, Kairos swearing he could ‘feel’ the various emotions yet they did not seem to be his own - creating a very unsettling sensation. ’Ugh, maybe that shattering orb is having some lingering effect, if it really was a powerful artifact then its power doesn’t judge dissipate’. Placing his Scythe back, he listened to the girl’s words - it seemed there was not to be any battle or prize this day, just more disappointment and empty efforts. ”Well, as tempting as it would be to cross blades with some of you - if there’s no prize for it I can’t really say it’s worth it” Kairos said with a half smile.

In truth he did not mind if anyone did decide to start a small fight, his ship would not be doing its return trip for hours still, meaning he would have to find a way to pass the time until then. But for the moment, he was keen to leave this temple and the unsettling thoughts that seemed to drift into his mind behind, no doubt with the rising sun the beach and outside would make for a far nicer setting than a decrepit temple

Ariah watched as the whole stream of events unfolded and as blame was thrown, people were lost, and everybody was confused he decided to look inward. Separating himself from the chaos around himself to seek out an answer about this strange feeling he now had, but what's more is that what he felt was almost familiar. That reach from your mind to something physical and real like when he throws and controls his glaives, but this object he reached was alive. It was confounding and foreign, but undeniably present and unavoidable. Tracing that line he moved down one of the strands like it was one of this magical reaches. It was there he found a spark of life, a deep blue spark radiating like a light in the dark void. Though in this foreign land he didn't know how to tread and with a mental misstep he was taken from that place.

Snapping out from his trance he looked around back in the real world and of course that meant the girl on trial. "Whoa hold up on the hostility. I don't think Sophia did anything to the relic. After all she wanted it too and unless her wish was to screw over the rest of us and burn the wish then something tells me something went wrong." He said, walking up to the dais in order to see a gathered crowd of rather edgy and ready to fight folks. Not surprising though given that they'd all chased a legend to find disappointment.

Wait... Sophia? Where did that name come from? Was it even her name and more over why did he even say it? It just felt so natural in the moment, but where did it come from. Unless that spark told him... What was going on? What was this mental mess?

I'm losing it... I-I have to be. Because, if you ask me, it seems like we're all connected. I'm feeling and hearing things inside of me that... aren't me... if that makes sense. And now... now some people are looking at Sofia like she's responsible for this some-wait... how do I know her name?

Her left hand moved to her head, grasping it as if she had a headache. She proceeded to take a few more steps back, glancing around at everyone as she did so, gaze lingering on a few weapons a few people had. Out. Ready to be used.

She was just glad there were a few people stepping forward to try and diffuse the situation, trying to remove some of the attention from Sofia. But honestly? She just wanted to leave. She just wanted to go outside and get back on the boat and... leave. Go back to her home and pretend like this never happened. Sure, the failure may sting for a while and she may feel the superficial ache of her coin sack but she'd get over it by the end of the day. It would be no big deal.

Because this? The implications were dawning on her. She wasn't an idiot, despite what her pretty face may tell you. And based on what she was hearing, what she was feeling, and what she now knew if everything involving Sofia was any indication... she had a feeling something more unknown and horrifying happened then just them losing their shot at their one true wish.

She noticed she was one of the few, if not the only one, who hadn't drawn some kind of weapon or taken some kind of defensive stance. She could feel the weight of her dagger pressing against her thigh and felt momentarily comforted. Sure, these people had swords and such BUT she'd be able to at least defend herself. But, that could just be her analytical mind jumping to conclusions.

So, licking her lips and drawing upon that ocean of confidence within her, she decided to force herself to recover from the shock and strange weight she felt inside her mind that made her feel... full(?) yet empty at the same time.

Clearing her throat, she spoke, her voice showing a confidence that fit her naturally like a glove. And the way she relaxed her position and crossed her arms in a somewhat defensive position showed it.

"Let's be logical here, people. The magical save-all artifact was just a lie. No wish was granted and that's the end of it. We can sit here and argue like idiots but nothing's going to come from it."

And I am all for leaving and going home. Waste of time, Was the general consensus of her thoughts as she moved to leave. Besides, the weird feelings and voices she was getting made her want to get as far away from these people, this room, and this island in general. Pretty logical, she'd say. And her curiosity could stuff it for all she cared.

"Honestly, i think this artifact did something different than granting a wish. Question is, what did it do?" Nina said aloud after letting out a long, drawn out sigh as she listened to the various thoughts and words of the other people around her, the odd nature of this strange mental connection leaving her wonder just what was going on.

Personally, she felt the need to leave and go find a doctor, perhaps one who could help save the woman who was her mother. There was no time to just sit and dawdle about arguing with these people. Much less, she had no time to sit and debate the nature of what the in world had just happened to the relic and all of them in the wake of that event. Yet at the same time, having no way to get back home, the very real fact that she herself had no way of escaping this island as well was very apparent to her. Indeed, it would force her to either try to get back herself, or perhaps hitch a ride with one of the others just to get away from this mess of a set of ruins and the situation this had become. Glancing over the others, and seeing some move to leave in the process, the red eyed girl attempted to see if any of the others might look trustworthy enough to get a ride back from. Possibly.

But at the same time she also wanted to test something. Letting out one more sigh at the prospect of attempting such an odd idea, Nina summed up the will to project her next thought to everyone else that she could. At least, if she could do such. However, there was really only one way to find this out when it came down to it.

'By the way, can i get a ride back to the mainland with one of you?' Nina thought aloud, aiming to project this thought to the others as a sort of 'mass message' of sorts.

Sofia glanced to the sides as the others came to her aid, pursing her lips slightly. It wasn't that she didn't appreciate the support - she really did, it was nice to have at least some people believe that she wasn't a horrible person - it was more that she wasn't used to the idea or feeling. She had spent so much time alone and focused on her goals, that not many people really got close to her. In truth the closest person to have gotten to know her in the past years was the rebellion leader Corda, but even then Sofia had kept her at an arm's length.

Her eyes traveled back towards the entrance as she made her way out, before sighing mentally, though unsure if the others heard such things. It was crazy to think about, surely, but it was hard to deny the facts of the situation. Somehow, they could all somehow mentally speak with one another. Though Sofia had a strong suspicion is was far more than just that. 'It linked us, I think,' she thought aloud to Nina's question, pausing as she realized who the woman's name was. She slowed her brisk walk for a moment to ponder on the revaluation before returning to her speedy pace. 'If you must, you may take a ride upon my ship.. though it is heading north, back into Sheolan..' It was a good an offer as Sofia could make because there was no way in the hells she was going to delay her mission.

Ariah listened to the mental and physical conversation that filled the air all around them, though the oddity of it all was truly something to deal with. Though he still had to have a plan of action as the question of getting off the island was posed. In truth his plan revolved around the relic providing fruit and he'd have a way off through it. Instead the ship he rode in on was probably half way to a tropical beach by now.

When Sofia mentally threw her answer he felt the need to try and capitalize on it and head after her physically, picking up his own pace to gain on her. Hopefully it wouldn't turn into a hostile situation as things were still a small bit tense. Also not wanting to mentally say for her to spot in the event that TOO gets seen as a hostile act. Why must things be so tense all of a sudden? Causing problems when people could be friends or just enjoy life a tad. Regardless when he closed the gap to Sofia he posed his question, "Hey hold up a minute. I heard what you uh... thought... I guess. And I was hoping to get aboard on that deal. I'm not to eager to head that direction but I'd rather not stay on this island all by my lonesome. So... think I could tag along too?" He finished, walking besides her and trying to help lay on some... charming moves to better edge his chances of hitching a ride with this... well for lack of a better term stranger.

Though to head to a land he hated. This would be a trip that wouldn't be particularly enjoyable for him, especially given his political views. Though without any bounties or standing warrants for him in that Kingdom it would just be a matter of not killing anybody who's too... "Sheolanian" around town on his way out of town.

Kairos Threadbare

Kairos paid little attention to the words that were flung around the temple interior, the prospect of a battle had faded as each individual sort to disengage from the current situation. More pressing was the ideas that were projected into his mind, it seemed a group of these ‘thoughts’ were coming up with the idea that the individuals in this room had somehow been mentally linked, the ‘surface’ thoughts of others rippling over from their stream of consciousness to each other. ’An unsettling prospect to have others poking around in my head, there’s only room for one in here Kairos thought to himself, no doubt the idea would be spilling out to the others though.

Shaking his head he glanced back to where the relic had been minutes earlier. Perhaps this strange experience was just a side-effect of its destruction, with enough distance and time it was possible that such stray thoughts from these other individuals would be unable to reach. Turning to leave he couldn’t help but pause as Sofia’s thoughts reached his mind once more, with the mention of Sheolan. Focusing his eyes on her he spoke aloud, not wishing to commune via thought just yet ”Sheolan you say? Would that make you a servant of our current Megalomaniac Zeph?. His words carried carried a humorous edge but there were undercurrents of a doubtful accusation ’She doesn’t bare the colours of his army though that could mean little given the secretive nature of the current task.

More importantly, as he asked his question, Kairos made a note of the others reactions to Zeph’s name - for most outside of the Empire’s army it had almost become a curse word. Thus far it seemed as though none here were in liege with the madman, but given the current situation with surface thoughts leaking out, it might be a good chance to catch such an individual off guard, and might save some of those looking to hitch a ride with such an individual from any trouble

'Indeed. But thank you for the ride as well. I am to be heading back in that direction anyways for the time being.' Nina thought back to Sophia specifically in response, mentally sighing to herself as she was grateful for the small kindness being thrown her way in that regard, 'Would you happen to know any doctors or healers in Sheolan as well? I can go to them on my own if you know any, but i don't want to be too much of a pest.'

She had might as well ask while she had the chance to. The life of her mother depended on it, and she needed to find some other help fast if this relic had utterly failed herself and the others. The link was an interesting thing, at least, but at the same time she did not need to waste time either. She had to save her mother from dying, to save her home from collapsing and the like. Zeph's forces were as cruel as the sometimes attackers on their base of operations were, and if her mother was not there the organization back home might weaken, possibly enough that her family would...would...

She could not ponder the matter much, and shook it out of her head mentally as she heard others pipe in on the matter of getting a ride and such. A frown, nearly a scowl, came to Nina's face as she heard two more individuals speak up mentally and otherwise on the matter. This was especially since Nina feared both the latter's accusation and the two's overall asking could ruin her own chance at getting off of this island and back to the mainland.

"Can we quit throwing baseless accusations about and everyone jumping in on wanting to get a ride from Sophia here right now? Besides, that damned megalomaniac would probably send an army to try to get this thing, rather than just one person." Nina said aloud in the direction of both Aria and Kairos, her tone not too happy with the two as she herself walked towards Sophia in a calm fashion.

Now, Mila wasn't one for waltzing into dangerous situations without a plan or... period, really. Sure, she enjoyed adventure more than the average person but she prided herself on having a pretty strong self-preservation instinct AND for knowing when to move on and take her winnings and/or losses.

So... when she ended up traveling to some remote island by boat to try and get some mystical artifact that may not exist only to THEN find it and THEN have it burst into sparks and THEN find herself able to hear the thoughts of those around them and them hear hers?

*Deep mental breath*

Yes, every instinct was telling her to run. To leave the ruins and hop on that boat and leave. She would return to her home, wallow in self-pity for about a half-hour and then get ready for work. But, for some reason or another, instead of leaving... she hesitated by the doorway. She watched the others try and figure out a situation to get back to their homes. (Most herding towards the girl who was closest to the artifact, she noted with some amusement. Although an annoying voice in the back of her mind told her the 'girl' was named Sophia.)

She briefly thought of offering a ride back but thought against it, figuring Sophia (There, she acknowledged it.) would be able to play hero and give them a ride back. Prepared to take her leave, she was distracted when Nina (For crying out loud...) grew upset for some reason or another, getting a stern tone with Ariah and possibly Kairos. (Oh, forget it...)

She's apparently worried about losing her ride back to the mainlands.

Even though she wanted to just leave this strangeness behind, she decided to play nice... this once. Stepping forward once more as the mediator, she spoke.

"To take some of the attention of Sophia over here... if anyone needs a ride, I'll also offer transportation. However, once you're on land, you're on your own. I'm also heading to the coast of Otadica so... keep that in mind."

She said all this in a casual manner, almost careless even. If she received no confirmations, it was really no matter to her. She'd be able to go home either way. Besides, at least then no one could say she hadn't been generous in her offering.

Sofia glanced beside her to the man, Ariah was his name, trying to charm her into hitching a ride. She smirked every so slightly - he'd soon learn that he didn't need such tricks. She wasn't heartless after all. Determined, but not heartless. Then before she knew it, the bitter one - Kairos - spoke up, suggesting she may be an agent of the madman. To that, she could only scoff bitterly, even mentally so. 'I'm no agent of his insanity.. I mean to bring him down to his knees.. stop this madness, this bloodshed, this war. That is my only focus right now. I won't let Ovelia die in vain.. not her..' her thoughts trailed off as she clenched her fist.

Surprisingly though, Nina spoke up, nearly hissing at everyone for trying to take Sofia's offer before Mila hesitatingly offered her ship as well. She could sense.. distance from the dancer, and yet.. she still brought herself to offer. Mila could feel Sofia smile, ever so slightly, in approval. 'Nina, I appreciate the gesture, but it's fine.. I don't mind more travelers if they wish.. even if they don't wish to trust me. As for the doctor..' She glanced over to the woman, sensing fear on the surface of her thoughts, bringing a tinge of heartbreak to her own mind. '... I can ask Corda.. she leads the internal rebellion in Sheolan.. she might know of someone.' Before she knew it however, the ship she had set sail on was in sight, causing her to look back to the two that had asked for a ride, just nodding silently to both of them. "I'll let the crew know that you're with me, so no worries."

Ariah listened as he waited for a response from Sofia only to overhear a response from Kairos first. Though his words were much less honeyed than his own. Though Ariah's thoughts on Sheolan and her were already known to himself. Regardless, he couldn't form a response fast enough as another woman came around to offer a rather heated and agitated response. Though caught in the crossfire he still tried to shy away from it, not seeking enemies, but instead a ticket off this rock in the ocean. So instead he watched things unfold and before long Sofia, the one person who's spark he had sought out and knew the name of, started to light up with emotion. In that moment he let go of how the other girl was a tad aggressive with him to feel... confused about Sofia. She was clearly not with Zeph and he could relate to what she felt, given his past and hatred for the same man. In fact it sparked him to want to give her a hug. Though with things going as they were... quick hug. He was already by Sofia and so it didn't take much to reach out to give her a quick wrap and squeeze. Assuming she didn't draw a knife on him for it. "I'm sorry." Was all he said, quickly releasing her to avoid trying to make it seem like he was smothering her. After all, grief needs space.

From there though he heard another physical voice radiate out from the room as another girl chimed in rather... oddly. He didn't have her spark visited, but she seemed to be quiet... separate from everybody else. It seemed to be like... fear. Though after hearing her words he looked between the two groups forming and made his choice, "I wish you all luck. Soemthing tells me though we will be meeting again soon though." From there he gave a gentle wave to Sofia, Kairos, and Nina in favor of jogging after Mila. Taking a bit to catch up to her side of the field before saying, "I'll be willing to take you up on that offer. Name's Ariah, a pleasure to meet you my dear." Again trying to put a little charm into his words to better his odds of making friends.

One thing was sure though, he was quiet happy to have a secondary option that wasn't going to Sheolan. While he did fully intend to go there one day, it wasn't going to be for a social call. Otadica though, not a bad place to be on the mainland. All the shops, routes, and avenues means that from there he could go anywhere, assuming he wanted to leave in the first place. From what he'd been told the mercantile there is second to none and that may be worth at least a temporary stay.

Kairos Threadbare

There was no doubt that his statement had earned him a fair share of ire, but Kairos seemed unperturbed by both the words and thoughts that flooded into his mind as a response, the small grin on his face remaining as he quickly sifted through the thoughts his comment generated. Almost all had a hostile or negative opinion of Zeph, though the strength of the emotions from some individuals made it hard to ‘feel’ through to them all. ”No need for such a harsh response Nina, was only a question rather than an accusation. Kairos replied with a chuckle before mentally adding ’And besides it let us know more about Sofia there. It is good to hear the Rebellion still goes strong, news from within Sheolan is hard to come by these days’.

Overall though the energy of the situation was dispersing, no one here were enemies and all seemed eager to ensure the situation defused as pleasantly as possible. Making his way back through the ancient ruins he offered one last thought primarily to Sofia though it could easily apply to some of the others travelling with her towards Sheolan ’I wish your Rebellion efforts well, perhaps we’ll have another chance meeting on the field of battle against Zeph’s armies.’. Taking a glance up towards a crack in the structure of the ceiling, Kairos quickly checked the position of the sun. It was still in its ascent through the sky so there would be many an hour to pass before his ride returned.

Though his body language was calm as he strode along the stone floor, as his mind began to probe the extent of the link it began to become a point of stress. Not only thoughts were leaking between the group but information such as names (He had called one of them Nina had he not, as though he knew that was her name for certain?). Such trivial information was innocent enough but it was possible other thoughts might soon begin to seep amongst the group, and such a possibility was not a pleasant one for Kairos to consider. Turning his attention inward, he increased his examinations at what he could gleam, intent to know what the limits were before the others had the chance to do the same