---

...Seemed whoever wrote that page was not a fan of the Illuminator, but more worrying was the seeming gusto to one-up a god at something. Sure whomever it was could erase memories, it seemed, but trying to one-up a deity was usually a sign of the kind of hubris that would doom someone in legend. Or at least the kind that led to bad things happening in anime and movies. Maybe even, as she suspected most of all, the words of a rejected follower or apprentice or something who was trying something ultimately stupid and dangerous to try to one-up the master or deity or so forth who cast them aside. The mention of an orb was also something odd, however, as they'd already seen one after coming in. Was it the same one they wanted to take? Was it another one hidden deep in this temple? Both could be valid, and her own suspicions immediately went to the latter option unless it would be proven different otherwise.

Either way, the mysterious writer who left this behind a complex trap would be something to get back to sooner or later depending on what happened next. Maybe she could even ask Lazhira about it all, to be frank, and see if she had any insights. The girl bore markings like this place and was suspiciously able to get to and fro to here with a strange ease compared to them. So perhaps she knew something? Leannah didn't want to assume anything outright at the moment about the newfound companion, but hell the mysteries behind her too and the fact they'd only met some shorter time ago did indicate something of potential mischief and strangeness afoot if naught else. So much didn't add up, so much she had already theorized about, and so much more was here to learn if she didn't get herself killed first.

Mostly she was thankful the crystals on the walls were back, and that the one she had was still glowing well in the dark. She'd put out her magic light well enough by this point to simply see better with the crystal, or really it could be said her concentration was broken and it went out when she fell down the pit in the first place, but still she pressed onward through the path that opened up from the cistern.

By the time the catgirl reached the large pool, she immediately paused in her movement to observe and look around...carefully this time. It was a big rectangular area, wrought of bricks and glowing crystals. Things were moving in the large pool of water (not always a good sign), though light was coming from the bottom of it as well. Most worrying was that more of that 'tar' was hanging from the edges of the pool, which wasn't a good sign if she went into the thing. Reminded her of a local YMCA really, at least when she'd managed to first see one after many years of travel and training and so forth.

It smelled of a trap. Jump into the water to get things, things turn out to be monsters or cursed or evil slimes or something, can't get out because of the tar on the edges. Ensue a stamina struggle to swim whilst fighting, and then basically either die or manage to get out. Such a thing seemed fitting for a deity who wanted to 'test' how far others were willing to go for knowledge. Of course she could be reading too much into this as well, that much was always a possibility. Either way her curiosity was something fierce about all of this, and she couldn't just sit idly by after what had just happened either. There was a lot up with this place, and it was important to ensure she learned something as she went along to help ensure her owns survival and maybe unravel one or two clues about here at least.

Still, in the end she would decide to keep her feet away from the tar and patrol around the pool with her crystal in hand. From this safe distance of the tar she'd look around the walls and edges and floors about the pool, minding her steps and looking cautiously for obvious 'push me into the water' traps. She'd also, from this safe distance, look over into the pool and use her own handheld crystal as a light source extra to see if she could tell what was down/in there without stepping as far as the tar.

Once she was done, if nothing crazy happened, she'd stand near the far end of the pool close to exit from (not where she entered into here from) this room. Here she would try to cast a 'Light' spell like earlier, but this time take time, control, and caution to the extreme to do so. Because in this case she was trying to cast a light attached to the edge of the pool to give her more of a look into the water. It would probably cancel out the crystal light, but all the same it would be another perspective. If it gave her any better view or look at what was in the pool from here, or not, she'd gently snuff out the light once more with the same level of extreme caution in her magic use.

@Rune_Alchemist

Despite the slime’s weakened state, it was still giving Narkissa more trouble than she had expected. Through its damaged, eviscerated form, it still fought for every inch of its life –and literally—as she reached for its core deep inside of its gelatinous body. But she eventually grasped it. From its determined shrieking, she knew that this was its lifeline. Without remorse, she pulled, and pulled, until she yanked it fully out of its body, awkwardly falling backwards from the sudden loss of resistance.

Panting, she watched from the ground as the creature continued to gurgle and shriek, until it finally dissolved into a watery mess on the temple floor. Still catching her breath, she kept her grip on the strangely cool core, looking down at it, she couldn’t help but to laugh. She’d done it. Perhaps she’d been a little too bold with that, but it seemed to work out alright.

She was still recovering from her exertion when she jerked up, looking up at the temple ceiling as she heard the voice of the goddess once more. The voice was perhaps not quite so welcome as it had been after her brief ordeal, but Narkissa wasn’t going to ignore it, either.

Furrowing her eyebrows at the fight being referred to as a tutorial, she watched as a familiar drop of water fell from the sky. For a moment, she almost cringed, expecting it to be a ‘reward’ that brought yet another gauntlet of monsters, but it stopped and hovered in front of her. She looked at it apprehensively, but after a few moments, she reached out and took the floating raindrop-like gem.

With a frown, she turned it over in her fingers, wondering what it was for. Not finding an immediate answer from the goddess or from observation, she sighed and pocketed the reward as Lazhira bounded over to her, clearly having taken the lesser slimes to task already. As far as rewards went, she felt it was a strange one, but perhaps the greater reward was the newfound –if now somewhat subdued—feeling of magical power within her body.

“Ah? I’m not sure, actually…” For a moment, she thought about hiding the gem from Lazhira, considering its strange origin, but she’d helped her in the fight, and it was only fair to at least show her. “Well, I’ve got the big slime core, if that’s actually worth anything… and this gem that seems to have fallen from the heavens,” she replied, holding out the two objects in each hand. Once she’d had her fill, she pocketed both items again and stood up, dusting herself off. Feeling some pain in her arm, she frowned at the welts and scratches on her skin from her little bit of bravery. “Perhaps I overdid it a bit,” she grimaced, before peering back down into the hole.

“So, hmm. Is Leannah and that other man still down there? Should we… look for them down there?” Really though, Narkissa wanted to just go back to the village at this point and rest. Now that the issues up here were dealt with, however, she remained worried for her fellow dimension traveling companion. The other guy… well, not so much. As far as she was concerned, he was just a random stranger that abandoned her in a time of need.

So that was it.

The machinations of another deity, and those who chose to connect themselves to it, were the reason for the collapse of the deal between the Forest's Ruler and the people. And on top of that, the Kyrinth's personal feelings on it seemed to be one of mild disappointment rather then anger...

In a way, a lack of animosity between both parties was both a boon to their cause... and a setback. Without a particular grievance or incident, it became harder to address it specifically. Additionally, the fact the Kyrinth had no particular attachment to the land and could simply relocate the forest in its entirety...

But Nobunaga would not be discouraged from her cause.

"So it is the actions of those who still cling to the ideals of this god who threatens the very land they live upon?" Nobunaga asked, casting one glance back towards the new arrival before refocusing on the great deer once more, "Unable to see the danger through the allure, I see."

She took a deep breath.

"Still, there are those within the village who wish to rekindle the lost relationship between you," the petite continued. Indeed, the town's chief was quite happy to hear that she was willing to attempt to reform their deal, and she could not imagine that desire was absent from the rest of the townsfolk.

Then perhaps...

"You may have no particular need to remain on this land... but are their not animals who dwell within this forest who would be incapable of moving with it? Those with young, those who have attachment to a strict territory, or any other myriad of reasons. This sacred grove and all within it may be able to depart, but there are still creatures that would be destroyed not by a natural cycle where one animal feeds upon another, but by the upheaval of what lies sealed beneath this land and the waters that would rush in to contain it."

Nobunaga paused for a moment.

"Of course, my concerns to that regard may be unfounded," she added. It was impossible to know for certain just what kind of capabilities the Kyrinth had in regards to the creatures that lived in the forest, but it was unlikely it was specifically sending those beasts from before to attack the town based on its own lack of malice.

With that being said, then perhaps it was worth appealing to its concern for native creatures living outside of the grove itself.

To be truthful, a God of Knowledge sounded far more like a figure that would appeal to her under other circumstances... But Nobunaga detested what she had heard here. Seeking knowledge and away to better the future was all well and good, but it was utter foolishness to pursue it to destruction. Knowledge had to be acquired with wisdom, not with recklessness.

Nobunaga placed a hand to her chest.

"Regardless, I have proposal, if you should be willing to hear it."

@Rune_Alchemist@PKMNB0Y@PaulHaynek

Misaki listened to the Kyrinth in silence, taking in everything that it had said as she tried to piece the situation together within her mind. Taking the deer-god's words as pure truth was not something she was inclined towards doing, per se, and as much as she wanted to simply grasp onto the first thread given to her and hold onto it, the possibility that it wasn't the whole truth left her slightly wary. Skepticism was natural, though—at least, to her it was—but until she had a clearer picture of the situation, then the foxgirl thought it best to simply hold back from making any assumptions.

An objective viewpoint was the best in this sort of situation, after all; she was no politician, so any thought of costs and benefits were less important than finding the truth of the matter that lay beneath.

Of course, with Nobunaga having taken control of negotiations, Misaki was free to simply stand by and listen to their back-and-forth. The deer to whom she had given the remaining reeds to seemed to have taken a liking to her, though, and the memories of her trip to Nara once again floated into her mind. If anything, she could at least try and pet the animal while they continued their conversation... Right?

@VitaVitaAR@Rune_Alchemist@PaulHaynek

---

@Rune_Alchemist

Donovan's brow raised as he approached the strange beast, curious as the why it ignored the fruit he'd tossed at it. Getting closer, the man damn near had a heart attack for a moment; believing the creature was mauling a child... Until he saw the armor. Though he breathed a slight sigh of relief-- it wasn't for long, as the little lady clearly needed help!

From what Mie had said, these creatures were normally quite docile, so there was only one reason it would be attacking her rather than going for a treat.... The Dwarf had something that smelled even better!

Almost chuckling to himself, Donovan wasted no time stepping in, grabbing the dwarf, and throwing her onto the shoulder of his free arm before breaking into a dead sprint back toward the village. "Dunno wha'cha got on yah tha' et wants so much lass-- but yah just made bringin' et back a helluva lot easier!"

Into the depths?
@Click This

---

“Weird...” The girl replied with a small frown. “Without saying too much, you...should hold onto that, okay? And make sure you don’t let anyone take it.” She joined Narkissa, peering into the hole with a small grin. “Hey, if you can beat that thing I doubt anything down here could hurt us.” She’d say leaning over and gazing into the hole. “Annnd hey, without a bit of risk we’re not gonna learn anything~!”

Instead of giving Narkissa a moment to decide, Lazhira simply jumped, and quite literally, cannon balled down the hole with a playful whee.

She would hit the somewhat bouncy tar pit below, bouncing lightly as she rebounded off, only to lose balance and fall face first on the tar. Narkissa would soon follow, either by following Lazhira’s own jumping or taking the rope Novak left behind, ending up on the same sub level the others were currently in.

“Ew, what is this stuff...” Lazhira frowned, sitting up and getting to her feet. The duo was left with the same options to head forward as Novak and Leannah had, albeit without the option of the library as the wall was still closed.

Dungeon Diving ho~!
@Crusader Lord@Crimson Paladin

---

Leannah was understandably cautious about this room, more so than the previous two at least. She would carefully avoid the tar by the pools, keeping an eye out for any obvious traps. Thankfully, as far as she could tell there didn’t seem to be any as she walked towards the opposite end of the room.

As soon as she reached the other end, she would attempt to cast the relatively simple spell of light again. A bit of concentration, and success was achieved. The small sun in her hand would light the room brilliantly, much more so than the dim lighting the cistern otherwise had. Within the water, the light illuminated what lay within.

Fish.

The moving figures were fish.

A number of extremely long almost eel like aquatic creatures swam lazily back and forth. At the bottom of the pool was a metal cage. Seemed like it had been at one point perhaps attached to the ceiling, but it had long since sunk to the bottom of the pool. It was difficult to tell but it seemed like there might be something within the cage, glinting off the light her small sun was giving out. The light also illuminated the exit, a staircase leading up back to the level of the rest of the temple.

The hallway it led to was rather simple, old gold and white carpet leading to a small pillar holding up the ceiling. Seemed to be dead end. The stone hallway seemed cold, and oppressive, and she couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. Small gaps in the right hall of the hallway seemed to indicate there may be some way to open the door.

Carvings on the wall near the pillar showed similar figures before. A woman in a flowing dress which turned into water. A hooded figure kneeling in front of a star. A carving of an old man, hand to his head and cane in the other.



A…riddle?

Would she have enough to ponder this information? And what was the purpose of it?

---

Novak would leave the pedestal room, more questions than answered. Where they ghosts? Or merely echoes of past events, that only those who wore the mask he had could see. Even then, what would they mean in either case? His steps would carry him down the corridor, following the small line of light which illuminated the wall.

The corridor was mostly straight, though the stones making up the floor had become slightly uneven in their age. No more strange visions assailed him as he moved, nothing more than the grayscale world and the single line of light would greet him, at least until he reached the end of the corridor. It would open into a room, smelling damp and musty, lights barely illuminating the medium sized room.

Rather than a library, this seemed to be more of a laboratory of some sort.

Old wooden tables, vases, glass jars full of unknown substances, likely unusable due to age. A few old books and pages of parchment and vellum. Liquids stained the tables, and a few chairs and some things had been knocked over as if someone had left in a hurry. Against the wall to his left was a door. Seemed like someone had boarded it up with a table and a few chairs. Dried black tar was to be smeared across the floor under the door.

An iron door to the right seemed to lead to what appeared to be a main altar area. It was more largely illuminated and something seemed to be moving within. The line of light moved from the wall, to the floor, zigzagging into the altar room.

He would vaguely be aware of a skittering noise coming from the hallway behind him. A quick check would show the same skull before had somehow positioned itself about halfway down the corridor.

Maybe there was something of use here, or he could keep moving.

---

Nobbu, the Fox, and a Traveler
@VitaVitaAR@PKMNB0Y@PaulHaynek

---

The Kyrnith fixed its eyes upon Nobunaga, studying her for a moment as the air within the grove stilled, seemingly in thought. A few long stifling seconds would drag by before the air would move again. The deer exhaled, a quiet breeze of wind flowing through the trees.

“You speak the truth.” It would reply. “The forest is only able to exist here because of my power. Without, it would be naught a plain of snow like so much of the rest of this dreaming world. Even should they survive, without the forest they would perish.” The breeze would shift, a somber feeling upon it. “...but there is little to be done. We beasts are powerful - but we can not act so freely against the divine without upsetting a delicate balance.” The deer would close his eyes, turning his head briefly to the sky.

“I am willing to hear this proposal you speak of.”

While Nobunaga spoke, Misaki would have a friendly fawn seemingly growing more attached to her. The blue coated animal would playfully and affectionately rub its head against her hand should she decide to pet it.

---

The Roma Mob
@ERode@Pyromania99

---

“E-eh? Y-yes she is…?” Leuca would respond to Augusta curiously. “...she’s...been blessed by the Fey though with immortality though...” Perhaps that would explain why she could only read a few things about Sorcha, but it still didn’t feel quite right.

“That’s far enough, stranger.” Railey would say, not taking his eyes off his opponent. “Any closer and Morgan might find both our heads being delivered to him.”

“I’ve no reason to harm them.” Sorcha replied, voice tinged with clear hostility. Her eyes glanced towards Isidore, suspicion and wariness clear but Isidore would note a mild bit of surprise only for a moment, before returning to Railey. “...unless they get in my way.”

“That so? That’s not the Sorcha I know.” Railey chuckled. “Has working with the elves dulled your fangs? Or are you just getting old finally?”

“Cut the chatter.” Sorcha replied coolly. “The only thing we’re going to do is fight unless you leave.” She smirked. “Not that you would risk the lives of your men in a serious fight. So that leaves you with one option. Leave-”

Before she could finish her words, Railey had lunged forward, the large sword in his hand striking forward with uncanny swiftness for such a large blade. The blade fell to the earth, its target expertly dodging just out of the way. Her own blade catching upon Railey’s armor and barely missing his flesh.

The large man lashed out with his shield, slamming it roughly into Sorcha’s torso. A pained grunt, the woman stumbling backwards from the force of the impact. The man would grasp the blade with both hands.

Sorcha’s blade met Railey’s own, the unpleasant noise of electricity bouncing off metal. The larger blade bounced off hers, deflecting it near perfectly and effortlessly. A flourish. Sorcha’s blade thrust forward. The blades tip clunked against the mans armor. A crackle of electricity, and the man was shoved violently backwards, the force enough to even knock him right off his feet. Whatever the shockwave was, it also caused any metal on Isidore’s own person to jerk away abruptly from the impact, though less violently.

“You can’t win, Railey.” Sorcha said bluntly. The brief clash would happen a bit too fast for the other two to involve themselves in. No doubt if they had, they might very well end up dead regardless.

“Tch...I really am gettin’ old.” He’d grit his teeth, getting back to his feet. “...ha, fine. I’m not a fool. I’m not risking my men's lives on a personal vendetta.” He would turn briefly to Isidore, mouth turned into a frown. “Stranger...careful in these parts. This land has no love for humans unless they side with things inhuman. The apostles welcome all who seek safety and camaraderie.”

Sorcha said nothing, merely watching him quietly as he would leave, unless someone else stopped him he would leave without much more fuss.

---

Wayward builder
@Guy0fV4lor

---

“Oi, so you do got some stones on ye.” She’d say as Donovan approached, beating the shield she had to attract the beasts attention as she would take a defensive stance. “Alright, big boy, I’ll distract it you beat its head in-” She was of course, unprepared for being manhandled. She would be much heavier than Don would have assumed from her size alone, but she was still easily carryable as long as he kept a good grip on her.

“Bweh!? What manner of brute are ye!?” The dwarf would shout as she would be roughly manhandled and subsequently carried away from the fight. “I dunno what ye talkin about surface dweller, but put me down I can take it! I’ve fought worse than that in the mines!” Donovan would have a somewhat difficult time keeping a hold on the feisty dwarf.

He would bolt back towards the village, the beast hot on his heels. Kamaitachi was surprisingly agile and fast given its size...faster than Donovan had likely given it credit for. Perhaps if he hadn't been carrying a wiggling dwarf that seemed intent to free herself, he'd have fared better. There was a gust of wind, the beast kicking up a flurry of snow as it would pounce towards them, Donovan would have barely a moment to dodge before it would land on his back.

Malphas pondered his choices for a moment. He had never met this "Enli" yet. Perhaps he should get himself acquainted with the leader of this village, especially with his new gifts in mind. Would he be the type to accept such an idea? And even then, would the dinner be successful? Malphas thought about it for a moment, wondering if those who recognized him would also be a part of this outcast girl's retinue... If that were the case, he would definitely need a disguise, but the Illuminator seemed like a fickle type. The pale man surmised that he would have to prepare a backup disguise just in case.

Of course, there was also the much more blunt approach of just commanding these hunters to ambush this girl alone. While such a plan was much simpler, there was also the added risk of her using whatever it was she stole from the Illuminator. Worse, perhaps she'd come out of that temple with even more treasures, ones that would make her a more formidable foe to face. A mere annoyance, at the very least.

"Hm. I'll speak to Enli, for now. I must know what sort of man he is, though. Is he easily swayed, or is he the stubborn type? More specifically, what does he think of the temple, and of this outcast girl? Is he any close to her?" Malphas asked his questions, staring at his mitts as he had done so. Whatever their answers, he would keep this all in mind on his trek back to the village.

On his way out of this secret meeting place, Malphas backtracked to the marked tree in order to retrieve the intact flower. He would scoop up the soil holding the herb into his hand, folding the mitt he's wearing on that hand into some sort of makeshift pot. Once that was retrieved, Malphas would procure his poisoned dagger with his free hand before setting off into the wilderness, and back to the village. Malphas would see to that merchant's request first, as there was one more thing he needed from her. Hopefully, the return trip wouldn't be full of those dastardly birds...

Lightning and incomprehensible physical capabilities. As expected of someone, if Leuca was being literal, blessed by the 'Fey' with eternal youth. Certainly, such a boon would allow any number of people to become incredibly competent. No failing memory, no wasting muscle mass. Made it more impressive that Railey had survived any amount of time against Sorcha then. If it wasn't for his prior engagements, Isidore may not have been opposed to learning from the Apostles. As it was, however, Leuca was with him already, Augusta was his partner, and the Urutha had a unique history beneficial for them.

So all Isidore did in response to Railey's offer was a curt nod, before his gaze settled upon Sorcha once more. Even with this much distance, it probably wasn't safe to play around. He flipped his polearm upside down, planting the axehead into the snow, then turned his head sideways. "Leuca's spoke of you." He gestured for the young Sirithen to stand up and come over. Beside him, not in front. "Are you still her guide?"

No trust existed still, only circumstance and stories, both which could change with the drop of dwarvish coin.

Nick dutifully followed the directions, taking him up a sloping trail until he reached a hill. The undergrowth of the forest soon turned into snow as he ascended and Nick soon arrived at his destination: A small grove with some sort of shrine sitting near a cluster of trees. The shrine seemed nothing special, just two slabs of rock with one standing straight atop the other. A clay bowl was there too with something burning in it. So that was where that faint smell of smoke came from.

There, he did indeed find the two girls that he saw earlier. There was another figure with them, an epically large deer with antlers so tall it reached the tree branches. That was probably Kyrnith. Nick wasn't gonna lie, the deity looked pretty damn awesome despite the simplicity of its appearance. There were also a lot of deer around them. Nothing really surprising about that.

The three seem to be talking and Nick got a rundown of what was happening to the Dawn village. It filled in the holes Nick still had about the story. Quite the trouble Dawn found itself in.

“...it seems we have another visitor. Speak the reason you have come here, or leave.”

Nick gulped. Well, here goes nothing. "H-Hey there, Lord Kyrnith. Umm, my name's Nick and I'm a friend of Donovan's." He first introduced himself. "You know, the tall guy with the accent who agreed to help you? I, uhh, tagged along with his quest so I could have a chance to see you, but I guess that was sooner rather than later."

"A-Anyway, I was actually here looking for these two." Nick pointed to Nobunaga and Misaki. "We heard that they were going to help Dawn too so I came wondering if they're interested in a little team-up. The more the merrier, right? Four heads better than one, right?" He then turned to the aforementioned girls. "Hehe, right?"

"But now that we're here though, might as well ask this." Nick continued before anyone could speak. "I'll bet my sister that you already know that we're not from this world. We're brought here by someone named 'The Goddess' and I was wondering if you, like, know a way back?" He asked his most important question. He doubted that it was going to be easy. "I'll settle for clues or hints, by the way."

"Oh, uhh, since you're a deity and all..." Nick fished the strange, black diamond thing he found back in the courtyard where they first arrived. "Got any idea what this is?"

Augusta had to look away from Sorcha. She couldn't help but curiously use her eye on the woman and for some reason, it was giving her some great headache the more she looked. She considered what Leuca had said about her being Fey-Blessed but, well, that seemed weird. That seemed like it'd belong in that Special Attribute area with "Holder of a Dying Wish" and "Human Sympathy" which she could see both. These were her assumptions so far... This Sorcha... She either had an ability that she could not see that prevented her status from being read or she was just too strong for the elven woman or her eye to currently comprehend. Either way, it left her wary. She was sure that, if she so desired, Sorcha could eradicate them from existence.

There were many things she wanted to say. "Who are you?" "What are you?" "Are you really a human?" But, well, she couldn't find the guts to say that aloud. She opened her mouth to say something else but... The words didn't leave her mouth. She couldn't manage to breath the words at first. She made sure she didn't use her eye to look at Sorcha again. She wasn't getting that headache now and she got a real look at the woman in front of the group again. She was beautiful, Augusta supposed. She studied the woman's features for a short time. She was strong enough to hold her own to that man, Railey, but was she strong enough to cancel the effect of her eye? What is she joking about? Augusta knew she was a stranger to this land. It shouldn't surprise her that there were people and creatures stronger than her... But this one was?

She swallowed the thought. She had plenty of time to ponder the subject. She didn't want to make Sorcha concerned by studying her too much so she spoke after making sure that Railey man was gone. "I've found myself rather fond of Leuca in the last couple of days." She took off her hood to reveal her face and, more importantly, her ears. "I'd like to follow her to her journey's conclusion at this point. I also have an interest in reaching the Urutha. Would you guide us as well, Miss Sorcha?" She tried to be cautious with her words but she was starting to hope for a truely warm place to rest.

It appeared that Novak had stepped into a laboratory of some sort. There was no sign of whatever he had seen peering from behind the corner, only a room filled with tables, an assortment of glasswares, and books. Novak was equally relieved and curious as to the purpose of this room. It seemed quite odd for a place of worship to have a laboratory. On the other hand, if the temple's former inhabitants worshiped the god of knowledge, perhaps experimentation was just another means of gathering knowledge. If so, exactly what sort of experiments were carried out here, he wondered.

Novak noticed two doors in the room. The first one, located across from where he had entered, was barricaded by furniture, and an ominous looking puddle of tar appeared to have seeped underneath the door. Somebody had clearly blocked that door, and it didn't take much thinking for Novak to conclude that it'd be wise to leave it that way. The second door was much more interesting. It was ajar, and light shone through it from within, indicating the room beyond was well-illuminated. But what really caught Novak's attention was that the light appeared to be moving or shifting, strongly suggesting that something, or someone, was in the room. Could it be Leannah, casting that powerful light spell of hers? Until he knew for sure, it'd be wise for Novak to keep quiet and avoid drawing any attention to himself.

Novak crept up to one of the tables, trying to move as quietly as possible. He looked at one of the books, curious as to what its contents were. He wasn't sure if he'd be able to read the texts, but perhaps he could glean something from illustrations or diagrams. After looking through the book, he'd don the mask again to see if it'd provide any further insight.

It was at this point Novak noticed a skittering noise behind him. Pocketing the mask, he peered around the corner to see what it was. It was the skull, having moved from the pedestal room to halfway through the corridor. If Novak hadn't been trying to keep quiet, he'd have let out a chuckle. By themselves, the skittering and the moving skull both unnerved him greatly. Together, however, those phenomena suggested a more mundane and less dreadful explanation- that some crawling critter was underneath the skull, using it as shelter or camouflage. There was no way of knowing whether the skittering creature was dangerous or not, but Novak saw no reason to antagonize it as long as it remained out of stabbing distance. Perhaps it might even be useful for something.

Novak returned to the laboratory. There was still the matter of where to proceed to next, and there were two doors leading out of here. Why was this door barricaded? Is it a dead end meant to keep something from getting out, or was it an exit meant to keep others from getting in? Regardless, the more pressing matter was the second door, the ajar one leading to the illuminated room. Whether Novak chose to take the barricade down or ignore it in favor of the second door, he needed to know what moving around in there, whether it was dangerous, and whether it would react to the noise that removing the barricade would create.

Novak looked over the glassware and vases, looking for anything that might help. Perhaps he could toss the crawling skull into the room to see if it was safe. Wait, I have an idea. He drew his sword and carefully used his sleeve to wipe whatever blood and dirt may have been on the blade. He approached the iron door, careful as to not step into the light emanating from beyond, using the blade of his sword as a crude mirror to try and see what was moving in the altar room. Whether or not the sword was able to cast a clear reflection, Novak would follow up by carefully peeking through the door to get a better look. If whatever in there appeared to be or one of his companions or otherwise non-living, he'd slowly open the door and walk in. If, however, the occupant appeared both alive in any sense of the word and unfamiliar to him, he'd carefully move back, and consider heading back to the tar room to see if the others had made their way down the pit.

@Rune_Alchemist

@Rune_Alchemist


“Without saying too much, huh,” Narkissa mused aloud. If that wasn’t a giant billboard with flashing arrows and lights saying ‘I clearly know a lot more than this topic than I want to say’, that was it. Still, it was a strange reward from an even stranger god. Maybe she would try to pry some information from Lazhira later. “Well, I don’t intend to lose it,” she quipped, before she tucked both the teardrop and core into the safety of her clothes’ inner pockets. Taking a moment to pick her weapon back up, she continued to peer down the hole with the younger girl for a moment.

Narkissa was still contemplating her options when Lazhira made the decision for her, jumping down the pit with a whee, of all things. She sighed and shook her head. Once more unto the breach, it seemed.

She took a far more pragmatic way of doing that, though. If that dungeon ended up being a big fat dead end, they’d be trapped in the pit forever. Being the smart little cookie that she wanted to be, she searched for some masonry to loop the remaining rope around as an anchor before dropping the sword down the pit (hopefully without bonking Lazhira) and shimmying down the rope to the bottom of the bit.

Or, her pathetic attempts at shimmying down a rope. She’d never done such a thing before, so although Lazhira’s landing wasn’t the most graceful, there was still an agonizing moment where she had to witness Narkissa awkwardly fumbling and swaying down the rope until she was on the ground next to her. Maybe she should have cannonballed down the hole with a whee as well.

With an immensely awkward expression on her face, she looked around, frowning at the tar at the bottom of the pit as she grabbed her weapon again. “Tar? Made from petroleum, maybe?” she wondered aloud. It was definitely a strange, if nasty substance. “Could be worth bringing back, actually…” She didn’t have any jars, though, so she didn’t press the topic.

She peered down the sole opening that the pit opened up into, a hallway of some kind. “Well, I suppose Leannah and that man went down that ways,” she shrugged, heading in that direction. She looked back at Lazhira. Now was a better time than ever to ask her just what those powers she displayed earlier.

“Say, Lazhira, what were those abilities you displayed earlier? Your secrets are safe with me, you have my word, but I can’t help but to be curious why you went to such lengths to hide your ability to fight earlier.” She recalled her having to be rescued by Leannah, but paradoxically also letting on that she was able to fend against the birds in that incident. Clearly, there was more between Lazhira and just a simple curiosity over this temple.

---

Interesting...but all the same Leannah did not want to risk diving into a pool full of eel-like fish. Especially when in the temple of a perhaps maddened trickster God of Knowledge who liked to see how far people would go to learn knowledge. Then again divinity was its own kind of perspective, perhaps, but was a perspective she didn't have all the same. She was a mortal like the others, and was most unlike the cute sun goddess or peculiar goddess who brought them into this world in that regard. Still, the statue with the flowing dress which turned to water...the one back in the library with the knowing look to boot...she suspected this was who had brought them here. The one she'd placed the stone necklace on, which was taken from the hooded figure. It was another working theory at least, so she was open to being proven wrong or confirmed right if the right information came along.

Regardless, after looking at both rooms she felt she had some kind of plan. If this was a temple to a deity of knowledge, then she could at least try to be clever! Not the stupid kind of 'clever' that got you killed, she hoped, but maybe enough to get things done in a less 'I am going to die' kind of fashion. That or she would eliminate approaches by the process of elimination, and hopefully not blow up the room or herself or the like somehow.

With this in mind the catgirl first returned to the pool, and opened up her right hand as she aimed her palm out at whatever was glinting off of her light. That cage and whatever was in within it at the bottom of the pool would be what she was aiming for. She then began to focus on it, beginning to channel mana again and let it flow like a gentle river at first. Good. That was step one. She then put two fingers of her other hand to her temple, and using the hand with an open palm pointed out at where the cage and contents were in the pool she seriously focused/concentrated her efforts and mana like she was some superpowered person using telekinesis. She used the strong mental image and imagination of using telekinesis to 'grab' onto the cage and contents, in other words, as the 'form' to channel the use of her mana into. Ah. In other words, she was using a strong mental image to shape the use of her mana to cast a telekinesis spell to try to grab onto the cage and contents to lift them out of the pool. Simply using magic to try to use telekinesis in a sense, really. She would put all of her focus and effort and strength into the effort, as well as exerting as much self-control and precision and care as she could muster to keep track of things and make sure she didn't lose control.

If these efforts bore fruit, and she managed to lift the cage and its contents out of the water and over near herself, then it would warrant a carefully investigation of the cage and contents that would now be on dry (enough) land and out of the water. She'd hopefully be able to find something good, if anything good was in there, and if she had to bust open the cage somehow she'd have to try that if it wasn't already broken

If what she tried didn't work or felt any bit along the way like it threatened danger or losing control, she'd stop herself and stop trying altogether. Better than wasting her time trying to kill herself or do something worse.

Once she was done with the stuff at the pool, successful or not, she would ultimately return back up to the hallway she'd just scouted. Here she would simply speak aloud where the carving was and say "A book!" aloud to the carving/pillar...and if speaking the answer didn't work she had another idea. In such a case she'd backtrack to the library she was formerly trapped in, seeing if she could grab some intact-enough book to bring back to the carving and see if there was any place to put it or such to trigger some kind of opening mechanism. In such a case it would be worth a shot.

And if a book wasn't the answer, she'd have to go back to the drawing board really fast and would likely next trying saying "A library!" and then "A baby!" aloud to the carving/pillar. She wasn't as sure of those two, but if the first answer failed it was worth trying too.

Still, through everything she was going to keep a careful eye and ear and so forth out for trouble. Creepy old temples were not known in any Earth media for being safe or free of worse traps and such.

Nobunaga brushed off the statements by the new arrival. She had little interest in openly discussing her own otherworldly nature(nor any reason to reveal that she was the same as him).

No, she had a far more important purpose.

A smile crossed the small girl's lips.

"In that case, my proposal is a simple one," she began, "It is plain to me that the value of access to the forest was not enough to override the desire for knowledge, even if they lack any idea of how this pursuit could effect them."

She spread her arms.

"Of course, you could merely insist this pursuit was punished in forming a new deal, but even the threat of punishment cannot stay the desire for knowledge," Nobunaga continued, "As such, that desire must be met with something else. Not only must this adherence to this reckless and careless God of Knowledge be punished, but an outlet for the desire for knowledge must be provided."

Nobunaga's smile grew. She had considered this the moment that the Kyrinth spoke of the root of the trouble between itself and the villagers.

"The villagers are to protect the forest, to ensure that it will flourish, to treat it as valuable not only for the sake of the resources they require but also for its own sake," the warlord continued with a flourish of one hand, "Because the guardian of the forest is also their beloved teacher."

The value placed on a teacher, someone who gave their knowledge to others, was high. And in a world like this... there was so much that the elder beast could share, wasn't there?

"You cannot move against this god directly, but you can supplant its purpose," the very thought of punishing the reckless god of knowledge in such a way, even if he had long sense moved on from this experiment, was pleasing to the practical-minded girl, "Those who seek knowledge will merely need to consult with the teacher they knew from childhood. The one whose very existence is tied to the natural world, whose knowledge of this world improves their lives."

She had no way of knowing just what the Kyrinth knew, but its very nature as a beast of the natural world and the title of 'Elder' implied wisdom if nothing else.

"Replace this god of knowledge. The value of not only access to the forest, but of a teacher who is far less reckless and far more wise, who will become beloved for the knowledge they pass on, will seal a renewed pact with the villagers. After all, knowledge is a valuable thing, and thus those who can provide that knowledge are beyond value."

It was something of a gambit... but surely, the capacity to guarantee care for the forest improve giving knowledge, and also begin wearing down the reckless deity's influence... it had to count for something, didn't it?

@Rune_Alchemist@PKMNB0Y@PaulHaynek

The fact that the deer seemed to not shy away from her touched gave Misaki more than enough of a push to actually begin petting the animal, her hands scratching behind its ears and under its chin as she might a dog or cat. The foxgirl took care not to be too rough with her touch—though it did seem to enjoy what contact she had given it—and the reaction given in response to that was positive enough for her to keep going.

It was this action that she chose to use as cover against the newcomer's words; if she did not yet trust the others who had so suddenly come up to her the day before, then what reason did she have to act the same towards this one? Reasonably speaking, though, their desire to return to Earth was not something unwarranted, but considering that statement brought to mind her last moments. "Going back" probably wasn't an option for her, loathe as she was to admit it, which meant that their goals did not so easily align.

It wasn't like she had a clue as to what this person had in store or if he could be trusted, either, though.

Nobunaga's suggestion, though, had caught the young woman off guard. To suggest that the Kyrinth be a teacher to the residents of the town... The thought hadn't crossed Misaki's mind, but the way it was framed made it seem like a fairly reasonable way to repair the broken contract between the two factions. It wasn't foolproof, of course—if there were people working against the Kyrinth still milling about, then it was possible that they could incite ill will as rogue agents. That much needed to be addressed, else their efforts go to naught before 'proper' negotiations began.

"I think that replacing that 'god' would go a long way," Misaki began, slowly turning to face the Kyrinth as she continued to pet the deer's head, "but that's not really a 'true' solution, is it? People aren't ants or bees; not everyone will unilaterally agree on a course of action. But it might be better to at least reward the ones who maintain this relationship, rather than only punishing those who do not."

What that might entail, though, would probably fall to the townsfolk; it seemed that they already feared the Kyrinth prior to their meeting now, so turning it into something more benevolent (in their eyes) rather than purely terrifying... Logically speaking, it'd probably be better for everyone in the long run, right?

@VitaVitaAR@Rune_Alchemist@PaulHaynek

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@Rune_Alchemist

Donovan laughed heartily at the little lady's protests as he ran from the pursuing creature, "Lass, much as aye'd be happeh tah help ya pulp th' damn thing-- aye been hired tah return et to th' folk that own... An' they wannet alive!"

Don did his best to duck branches and weave between trees as he ran, but the giant rat-creature seemed to be a hell of a lot faster than he'd thought and was hot on his heels; and the fact that the dwarf was wiggling so much didn't help. "Quit strugglin'! Yer slowin us down!"

As the creature drew ever closer, Don called upon that divine might once more-- the ever present force protecting and empowering him. He channeled that power downward through every nerve, muscle, and tendon in his leg. As the Kamaitachi would pounce, Don would fire the gathered power out his back foot, launching himself forward!

@Crusader LordInto the depths?
@Click This@Crimson Paladin

---

Novak approached some books on the tables, soon donning the mask he had found earlier once more after gaining no insights with his own eyes. Curiously, it seemed to help. Though he’d glean nothing solid from the books themselves, a voice would whisper in his head as he looked over the books.

“Crystal...”

“...baleful fog...”

“Move the altar...”

“...where is the other half...?”

...nothing overly useful, but perhaps the individual pages could be roughly translated to some larger whole? OR maybe they had nothing to do with the words at all. The diagrams themselves would prove equally as unenlightening. Seemed like one was some sort of instruction for creating some sort of jelly like substance? The disturbing thing was that the diagram seemed to have a human heart as some sort of component…

Once done there, he moved towards the door. The light reflecting from his blade would reveal little. Whatever was within was definitely moving, but it was unclear as to what. He would poke his head in...some humanoid was moving at the far end of the large altar room, right under a massive stone idol, the same shape and type as the one that had been above, but scaled to mildly ridiculous proportions. Definitely not someone he knew. The place was better lit, but it was not so much as to give any comfort. Large crystals on chandeliers seemed to be the main source, with the statue also having several growing upon it.

If he did decide to go back to the tarpit, his little skull friend seemed peaceful enough, not seeming to engage. He’d hear Lazhira’s and Narkissa’s voice once he got about halfway back down the hallway, and he’d easily be able to see them standing at the junction where the hallways split towards the pit and the pedestal room. He wouldn’t be able to make out what they were saying until he got closer, though.

“Petroleum?” Lazhira frowned. “I dunno what that is...but it kinda looks like the same stuff those slimes were made of.” She’d say idly, looking about the sub level, following slowly behind Narkissa as they traveled into the hallway. She’d frown slightly, lingering her eyes on where the Library was supposed to be, but now was blocked by a wall.

She didn’t say anything, though. Now, she has stopped when Narkissa asked her about her abilities, fidgeting on the spot.

“...uhm...do we have to do this now?” Lazhira would question, clearly uncomfortable. “...Geh, no, its fine. I trust you...I guess.” She didn’t sound too sure of that, holding her hands together and rubbing them against each other nervously. “W-well...uhm, The Illuminator...w-well, I used to be part of this cult. T-that’s all. I learned some things there that help with uhm, tricking others minds and preventing people from even noticing you.”

---

@Crusader Lord

Leannah would have...minor success with her telekinesis endeavors. Very minor. In fact, she couldn’t be sure she was doing anything at all. She would extend her reach outwards towards the cage...but it felt odd. Almost as if...it was much further away that it seemed like it was. She could definitely ‘feel’ it with telekinesis, but it felt far too distant for any fine control or any actual leverage.

Either way, while she may have realized she could utilize telekinesis in some way, it seemed like it wasn’t going to be helpful here without a decent bit of training. The riddle would prove as equally as frustrating. None of her answers seemed to initially, at least, give any sort of indication of being right...at least, initially. Until a rather amused, masculine voice would echo from the engraving itself.

"I ask for a who, and you give me a what! IS your brain full of nothing but fur, cat?!" A jovial, friendly tone. "I swear you mortals get more amusing the more I leave you alone!" There was a pause. "Amusingly frustrating. Bah, I don't suppose I should have expected you to solve it. Only one person in the world knows the answer, and its not me!" His tone shifted from jovial to a more angry, almost hateful voice as he spoke. "Well, you have my attention now, Bastelian. What do you want? I'm busy right now, so tell me before I make a scarf from your tail."

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Nobbu, the Fox, and a Traveler
@VitaVitaAR@PKMNB0Y@PaulHaynek

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“...your lips are far too noisy for your own good.” The deer replied towards Nicholas. “You should not so easily mention your origins. There may be those who seek to exploit or harm.” He turned his head towards the sky for a moment, inhaling and closing its eyes. A few seconds passed as the wind carried words to its ears.

“...That is...quite the curious artifact.” The deer replied. “An ancient stone, from the same place you woke I assume...yet not a stone native to that area. It perhaps once belonged to the sage those of the Mountain revere, but as for what it is - I can not say. It is old. Perhaps older than the Moonless Era. As for a passage back...those within the mountain speak of the Sage being able to peer into worlds other than this. Perhaps you should start there.”

It would turn its attention back to Misaki and Nobunaga as she would finally speak herself. It quietly listened to the proposal, a stillness overcoming the air as she spoke. It was near impossible to determine what the deer was thinking as she relayed her plan, but it did not seem hostile.

“...It is not unheard of for those in other regions to worship or to seek guidance from the Beasts as myself as divinity. Occasionally I meet my kin, and they tell me as such.” The deer replied. “I have never needed to, nor thought I should. Beasts such as myself should not involve themselves in mortal affairs...but I can see how it would benefit the whole.” He exhaled. “...I suppose you have a thought as to how we could go about this, then? While those in the village may not all fear - they all are wary, and those within the village seeking to work against me would surely sabotage such efforts to prove otherwise. Perhaps you should merely find those and end them as they would end the forests.”

The deer by Misaki’s side would eventually settle down, taking a rest upon the ground near her. Seemed like she had made a friend.

---

The Roma Mob
@ERode@Pyromania99

---

Leuca would break away from her hiding place, running down the slope and heading straight for the woman in front of them. She’d ignore Isidore’s motions, bolting past him and Augusta with an uncanny swiftness. She nearly tackled Sorcha as she’d wrap her arms around her in a hug.

“Sorcha!”

The blond woman would drop her sword, picking up the small elf, hugging her tightly and letting her sit in her arms.

“Oh, blessed stars, you’re okay…!” The woman laughed in relief. “Ah, I knew you were alive. I taught you well, after all didn’t I?” She’d laugh, ruffling the elfs hair with an open hand and turning to her companions. She peered at the curiously, amber eyes lingering on them both...and then falling to the hound that was currently cowering behind Augusta. Octavia whimpered quietly, seemingly terrified of something as she hug the back of Augusta’s feet.

“...Leuca...these people helped you, I take it?” She’d ask cautiously.

“Mhmhm! Isidore and Augusta. Isidore’s reeeallly strong~! Like he can fight a dwarf! And-and Augusta she can heal almost as good as the Druids back home.”

“...I see.” Sorcha would reach down, reclaiming her blade and sheathing it. “Well...you both have my thanks.” Her voice was cool, tinged with a bit of suspicion. “...I suppose since you helped Leuca I can trust you somewhat.” Sorcha exhaled, keeping Leuca in her arms. Isidore could at least tell she wasn’t dropping her guard for anything. “If its the Shadow Elves you seek, then you are welcome to come along then. I know these mountains well. Once we reach the dwarven gates we should find it easily.”

Seemed like she might not know things were not well with the dwarves.

---

Wayward builder
@Guy0fV4lor

---

“Yes, let a random human just lift me by my bootstraps and carry me off to who knows where!” The dwarf protested again. “That sounds like a right wonderful idea-aaaah!?!” Donovan focused that divine energy into his lower body, breathing relatively calmly as he would allow it to build. The moment the beast pounced, his foot also hit the ground...and he’d find himself being launched forward.

Perhaps not quite as far as he had hoped, but far enough to get out of the beasts grasp, and...tumble right out of the forest near the camp of the Merchant. He’d find his footing failing him, the dwarf tumbling out of his grasp as she’d roll a few feet on the ground before managing to hold up a hand.

“So...you were tellin the truth about that, eh?” She sat up, frowning slightly as she’d hold her side. “Tch, I think I broke something in that tumble...tsk, really at least ask a girl ‘for you get rough with her.”

A group of Oni workers had taken note of their rather abrupt arrival. The beast was probably not far behind.

---

Send Feet Pics
@Cu Chulainn

---

“Enli is a pushover.” Soyala said flatly. “Too concerned about the status quo, and fears upheaval in case the people here suffer. Unless he suddenly has grown a spine, I doubt he’d give you too much trouble if you tell him the hunters desire to put together a feast to welcome these newcomers.” She would smile slightly. “As for their relationship...well, she’s the only one who has the patience to hear his stories and legends passed down from the elders. I suppose they’re close, no matter if she complains about his lessons.”

Malphas would have no trouble returning to the tree where the flowers were growing. No more beasts seemed to find them here. The only odd thing perhaps he’d take note of on his return trip...was what appeared to be the same black fox that he had pursued the other day. He’d only catch a momentary glimpse of it, but it was no doubt the same. It’d run off in the same direction he had been heading in.

Otherwise, though, the trip back to the village would be uneventful.

Whenever he would return to Mie, she’d greet him with a sly smile. The area seemed much less lively than it had been earlier that day, as the sun slowly sank lower and lower into the horizon.

“Ah, so you’ve returned. I was almost hoping you wouldn’t, fufu.” She’d chuckle, sliding on thin, cloth gloves onto her hands. She’d hold a palm open and out. “Hand it over. Its getting late and I’ll likely be closing shop soon..”

"Now, now. Octavia. We've fought many things in the day or so together. Despite.... Well, how she is..." Augusta started off. Octavia was scared from a mere glance. She would question it more if she didn't have some insider knowledge. "She's very strong but she doesn't mean us any harm." She knelt down and scratched the pup behind the ears before standing back up to listen to Sorcha.

After the woman was done talking about an intended path, Augusta opened her mouth. "I'm not very knowledgeable of the dwarves of the mountains here, but that might not be so wise. A certain Lord Firebeard seems to have a want for an elven girl and sent some goons out. A hostage, maybe? Regardless, we refused to hand Leuca to them and they attacked. Though, you can guess the result."

The elven woman gave a sigh. "Those dwarves weren't exactly what I'd call friendly. It might be dangerous getting near the Dwarven gate unless he's just leading a small faction of Dwarves. Things might be different then. Or perhaps, there's another way to get there? I don't know these mountains or the people that inhabit them well, so it's hard for me to say." The woman was obviously fishing for information and hoping that Sorcha could give her some answers.

"Oh, but the children of the Stieneter and the Apostles have been a bit of a nuisance." She added, considering that aloud. Truthfully, she wasn't too concerned about them with Sorcha around but she wanted Sorcha's reaction to the Stieneter being mentioned.

“An ancient stone, from the same place you woke I assume...yet not a stone native to that area. It perhaps once belonged to the sage those of the Mountain revere, but as for what it is - I can not say. It is old. Perhaps older than the Moonless Era. As for a passage back...those within the mountain speak of the Sage being able to peer into worlds other than this. Perhaps you should start there.”

Nick had to do a double take at the Elder Beast's answer. "W-Wow. That's... That's awesome!" He replied. "You know, I thought you'd be a bit difficult about this but... this is more than I expected. Thanks!" Nick was ecstatic at the information. "No seriously, thanks. I really appreciate it." If Nick's memory served, Isidore and Augusta went to such a mountain. The two probably have met them. Well, looks like Nick's going climbing after this.

“...I suppose you have a thought as to how we could go about this, then? While those in the village may not all fear - they all are wary, and those within the village seeking to work against me would surely sabotage such efforts to prove otherwise. Perhaps you should merely find those and end them as they would end the forests.”

"I understand that you'd rather not do this, but the girls are right. If you can be a source of guidance for the people of Dawn rather than the loony god, then people would prefer going to you and the loony god's influence would reduce, making him easier to deal with." Nick explained. "We'd need to work on your presentation, though. I'd say we can start on putting a path or trail from the village to your grove. You know, make it look welcoming to those who wanna see you."

"But you're right about the Knowledge God's followers though, we'll have to knock 'em out before we try anything. It's probably a bad idea to ask the people in the village who's in it or not so is there a way to tell them? You know, like, tattoos or rings or necklaces that show their allegiance?"

---

Leannah noted to herself that practicing telekinesis later would be a good idea. She was no master at magic, but truthfully it more and more seemed enough like martial arts with all the need for practice, discipline, caution, and so forth. So for the time being, unless proven otherwise, she'd run with that type of approach.

More importantly, however, her attempts to solve the riddle were something that seemed to fall more than flat. It had attracted the attention of the Illuminator himself! She hadn't really put much into the solution, or rather had simply overthought things and tossed out knowingly wrong answers to try to whittle down her thoughts on the fly. The thrill of exploration and so forth had in the process left her a bit hasty in her rough attempts to solve it as well. Bit of panic from being separated from the others, the temporarily being trapped ina puzzle-library, trying to avoid possible dangers at the pool, falling in a tar pit, finding cool crystals that glowed in the dark, all of it was something new and exciting...as well as equally menacing and very much potentially lethal. It was both the thrill she'd wanted in her past life, and yet the sort of thing she was still adjusting to and trying to roll with.

...But this was perhaps the most dangerous thing she'd come before in this world thus far as well.

The cute sun goddess bird had shown her well enough the menace and power that could be displayed in a vision alone. Now she was not in a vision, though, but standing in the middle of a puzzle-filled abandoned temple...before an engraving on a wall with an impossible riddle...from which a tricky, danger-causing, crown-taking, smug yet crazy deity of KNOWLEDGE was very literally and actually speaking to her. That all whilst he sounded like the Mad Hatter to some extent! To say that 'one wrong step' could kill her was an understatement, especially with the type of fickle and very odd deity that this one seemed to be.

"At least it wasn't a When, Why, or Where, though those would be fascinating ways to try to approach the question. Imagine if my next guesses was going to be 'cranberry' or 'homunculus' or a 'clone' or the 'beginning'! Haha!

Hmm...but my brain could be full of fur perhaps, I was just born yesterday. Got reincarnated into this world from another by a Goddess of all things! Woke up in a neat little area that looked part 'abandoned lab' and 'cursed prison with monsters in it'. Dueled a magical stone construct and stuck a spear into it and almost died just to get away from it and get out!"

So maybe the way to survive was to play along then? Yes. And she wasn't lying either, so perhaps something she had experienced or done would prod interest or a long-winded mad ramble. Hell, maybe she could get some answers! Mostly she just wanted to buy time and hope that the rest of her group would be able to find her here. Or something...truth be told she didn't have the luxury of being able to think too far ahead on this. Right now was more improv and trying not to die most of all!

"Really, truly though, I came here to learn about you! The Great Illuminator! I traveled all this way to venture into this old temple, just to see what I could find and learn! I'd heard a story or two on the way here from someone in that silly village, hoped to find some pristine artifacts, and all of that!

I also heard something there is something called a 'Kyrinth' or some nonsense, really, along the way. Not that it seems much anyone back there even listens to that thing anyways! I don't even understand it. Or perhaps I didn't look into that enough. Mostly I just almost blew some friends and new acquaintances by accident with a fireball. Oops."

Leannah kept up a merry but still casual tone, channeling a bit of that panic and energy as excitement rather than fear or so forth. She had no acting skills, but this was a situation that demanded it! Besides, she wasn't lying to the god either, just tossing out info as she briefly chatted him and introduced herself and her reason for being here (which was rather truthful as well). She was just choosing the manner of doing all of this to be...'uniquely presented' and delivered in this case. To almost imitate manner of the god in some sense as she went back and forth a bit in what she said, trying to adapt to the situation and being before her with all of her nonexistent experience with deities (beyond one vision) at all.

Or perhaps she was dooming herself faster. Either way there was no going back, but to her she felt perhaps getting to the point promptly now would be best...

"Still, I would be most humbled to know more about you! As much as I can learn! That would be but my humble request really. Though of course I am not ever against a fun guessing game or the like for the information, if you wish! This temple has been quite the adventure so far, and I have heard you rather enjoy seeing how far mortals would go to learn something!"

The catgirl gave a deep and humble bow before the engraving after speaking, even giving a flourish of her arms in a ye olden fashion as a means of respect but not faltering in that face of excitement either.

Still...maybe a guessing game? Not that she knew if the mention would work, but if her guesses amused the god then perhaps she could learn and keep him amused at the same time? It was a rush plan, no real time to think but on her feet.

If she died, she prayed there was a death goddess who would take some pity on her. Maybe.