Shizuyama Wilderness
~ @Restalaan (GRI) ~
But the mercenary had some tricks left in his sleeve before he could pass out, he unsheathed his swords and thrusted the blades at Gringor's face. The High Orc's physiology protected him from any sort of injury, but the pain did force him to release the mercenary.
"The name's Keith North, by the way. Just so you know what to call me and not have trouble talking about me." The mercenary introduced himself, for a strange reason. "I've danced with some of your fellow taskforce members too. Cost me quite a fortune, so I'm a little pissed at your little ragtag bunch of misfits!"
Keith then lunged at Gringor, swinging his swords at the latter with wild abandon. Confident that without his weapon, Gringor was defenseless.
Feeling the swords smacking against his face, Gringor gripped loosened for a moment before the mercenary took advantage of it and freed themselves in an instant.
His cheeks twitched fiercely at the impact as he let out a sharp breath as the latter introduced himself as Keith.
Hearing briefly that he had tussled with the others before, Gringor wondered who it was as they let up a good fight away.
Well, that means it's all his now.
Arms tucked closer as Gringor dodged the first few strikes and distanced himself.
The moment Keith chased after him, only then did Gringor raised his arm. Heedless of the risk and would've done the same move even without armor on him.
Blocking the blade with his limbs, it screeched against the armor as Gringor stomped forward mightily. His foot dug deep before delivering a sharp blow to the liver in conjunction, leading to a devastating counter-strike.
Following through, he grabbed Keith outstretched arm and proceed to keep raining more blows with the other hand. This time not planning to let go at all as he continued this brutal onslaught.
"Ow! Why the liver?!"
Keith was then subjected to an unending barrage of punches to his face. With one of his arms in Gringor's grip which held him in place, evading was out of the question. But the mercenary still had moves he could play, Keith blocked the next punch with his free arm before using it to lock Gringor's punching arm. He also did the same with the other pair of arms.
With their arms locked onto each other, Keith leaned his head back before delivering a sharp headbutt unto the High Orc's head.
*SMACK*
A commendable move, but the mercenary severely underestimated Gringor's physiology. The only thing Keith managed to accomplish with that move was knocking himself out, his body falling limp in the High Orc's arms. And with that, the fight was finished.
Gringor continued his furious barrage right until his arm was locked, then the other. Moving on instinct the moment Keith reared his head back, he readied himself for the oncoming move.
True enough, Keith forehead met his and Gringor felt the impact rearing down his own by returning a similar headbutt.
From that exchange, Gringor prepared himself for the next one since it was now his arena but Keith head lolled back and body slacked under his grip.
Gringor blinked for a moment before realizing that the latter knocked himself unconscious.
Hmm. Well, that was fun at least. Gringor sighed as he looked towards the sky. It had taken longer and fights probably been over since he can no longer feel it in the air.
His eyes then fell onto large cart now bereft of its owner before an idea struck him, hauling Keith across his shoulders, Gringor tore the trappings off, tied up Keith arms and legs firmly before unceremoniously ditching him in the cart.
With that done, Gringor took over the cart and pushed it back towards their base. It was his spoils of war after all.
It wouldn't take long for him to reach it, and once done, he decided to hand over the prisoner as well as show whatever he captured to the Warboss so they can divvy it up.
"The name's Keith North, by the way. Just so you know what to call me and not have trouble talking about me." The mercenary introduced himself, for a strange reason. "I've danced with some of your fellow taskforce members too. Cost me quite a fortune, so I'm a little pissed at your little ragtag bunch of misfits!"
Keith then lunged at Gringor, swinging his swords at the latter with wild abandon. Confident that without his weapon, Gringor was defenseless.
Feeling the swords smacking against his face, Gringor gripped loosened for a moment before the mercenary took advantage of it and freed themselves in an instant.
His cheeks twitched fiercely at the impact as he let out a sharp breath as the latter introduced himself as Keith.
Hearing briefly that he had tussled with the others before, Gringor wondered who it was as they let up a good fight away.
Well, that means it's all his now.
Arms tucked closer as Gringor dodged the first few strikes and distanced himself.
The moment Keith chased after him, only then did Gringor raised his arm. Heedless of the risk and would've done the same move even without armor on him.
Blocking the blade with his limbs, it screeched against the armor as Gringor stomped forward mightily. His foot dug deep before delivering a sharp blow to the liver in conjunction, leading to a devastating counter-strike.
Following through, he grabbed Keith outstretched arm and proceed to keep raining more blows with the other hand. This time not planning to let go at all as he continued this brutal onslaught.
"Ow! Why the liver?!"
Keith was then subjected to an unending barrage of punches to his face. With one of his arms in Gringor's grip which held him in place, evading was out of the question. But the mercenary still had moves he could play, Keith blocked the next punch with his free arm before using it to lock Gringor's punching arm. He also did the same with the other pair of arms.
With their arms locked onto each other, Keith leaned his head back before delivering a sharp headbutt unto the High Orc's head.
*SMACK*
A commendable move, but the mercenary severely underestimated Gringor's physiology. The only thing Keith managed to accomplish with that move was knocking himself out, his body falling limp in the High Orc's arms. And with that, the fight was finished.
Gringor continued his furious barrage right until his arm was locked, then the other. Moving on instinct the moment Keith reared his head back, he readied himself for the oncoming move.
True enough, Keith forehead met his and Gringor felt the impact rearing down his own by returning a similar headbutt.
From that exchange, Gringor prepared himself for the next one since it was now his arena but Keith head lolled back and body slacked under his grip.
Gringor blinked for a moment before realizing that the latter knocked himself unconscious.
Hmm. Well, that was fun at least. Gringor sighed as he looked towards the sky. It had taken longer and fights probably been over since he can no longer feel it in the air.
His eyes then fell onto large cart now bereft of its owner before an idea struck him, hauling Keith across his shoulders, Gringor tore the trappings off, tied up Keith arms and legs firmly before unceremoniously ditching him in the cart.
With that done, Gringor took over the cart and pushed it back towards their base. It was his spoils of war after all.
It wouldn't take long for him to reach it, and once done, he decided to hand over the prisoner as well as show whatever he captured to the Warboss so they can divvy it up.
Terauchi Temple
~ @Restalaan (SKA) ~
"Probably wanted to 'convince' him to join the Varjans. Not standard tactics but there's precedence. That's how they managed to grow so fast over the years too. So we got some time, they'll need to reorganized too since they lost the momentum."
"Ha! I sayeth most wondrous of luck with those folk!" takeshi respond'd to Skarsneek with utt'r confidence. "My fath'r isn't the most flexible p'rson out th're. Aft'r what the varjans didst, that gent wouldst asketh nay less than the varjan king's headeth bef're that gent can beest hath brought to the table. "
T'wast then yond Shizuka did pull Takeshi hence f'r a private chat.
"Also, who are you?"
Revuel wast genuinely surpris'd to discov'r yond that gent and Skarsneek has't not hath met yet. "We has't not hath met? I wast h're at which hour the temple wast did attack, Sir Skarsneek. Well, I supposeth things w're going quaint festinate then. " the spellcast'r then clear'd his throat. "Allow me to introduceth myself. I am Revuel Arvida. F'rm'r warlock of the Scarce Legion, most of whom art anon assaulting this island. "
"I cameth at which hour I hath heard many scarce legionnaires gath'r'd h're. F'rtunately, I hath met with mistress Kyouko who is't did point me at the right direction. "
---
~ @AzureKnight (SHI) ~
~ @AzureKnight (SHI) ~
Having returned to Terauchi Temple with his comrades, Shizuka would gently lay the sleeping Liliana on a jasmine leaf that stemmed by a tree next to a small pond. Double-checking to ensure she was alright, he then made his way over to Takeshi with a serious look on his face.
”Takeshi-dono.” He said. ”I have much news, some good and more concerning. Firstly, we were successful in liberating Komatsu Bay, thanks in part of the efforts of Ayu and her brother - who apparently shares a name with me…” Shizuka’s face showed a bit of exasperation as he mentioned his smaller, chubbier compatriot.
”However, I have more new anent the finer points of the Varjan invasion as a whole.” He pointed to the unconscious Na’Kratz he was carrying on his back. ”If you’ve any business you need to attend to currently, I suggest you do so first, as what I have to say will require some time for careful prep.”
“Huh. So Ayu has a brother named Shizuka? That… can get confusing.” Takeshi remarked. “Anyway, I don’t really have anything to do right now. Why don’t I join you in putting away that Varjan and you can tell me on the way?” The young lord was eager and impatient in getting news about the invasion. They were close to saving his father, after all, and any new developments must be known immediately.
Walking with the young heir, Shizuka would find a place to sit him down for a moment, as he then turned back to Takeshi. ”This man is named Na’Kratz.” He said. ”He apparently is one of the strongest Varjan commanders in the invasion force. We defeated him, however, in the battle that liberated the bay. What mainl concerns me is what some of the lower ranking officers have informed me of.” He looked at Takeshi with solemn eyes.
”We have confirmed the mastermind behind the invasion of your lands: They call him Lord Serek’uar, apparently going by a title known as Sapphire Prince. From what Ayu has told me, they are feared as the strongest spellcasters within the Varjan Kingdom, and we would have to be wary when the day comes where we clash with him. Also, we have confirmed that your father Hideo-sama, is in fact alive and is being held at Kaneda Castle. I understand that it’s just at the borders between the Onrai and Saikoten regions? We’ll have to be extremely methodical as to how we approach this matter.”
”At the very least, I hope that this can bring you some sense of relief, now that we know your father is alive.”
“A Varjan Sapphire Prince… I’ve heard of them, but I never thought I would be facing one in a war.” Takeshi remarked, unnerved by Shizuka’s news. “And I’ve also heard of Serek’uar. It’s mostly stories from when we and The Order are still friends, but they told of a particularly violent and destructive Varjan named Serek’uar. Despite his affiliation with the brilliant strategists and tacticians of The Azure Circle, Serek himself isn’t terribly intelligent. Still, his penchant for destruction allows him a high position in the hierarchy.” The young lord revealed.
“We should rescue my father as soon as we can then. He’ll know what to do.” Takeshi affirmed his confidence and belief in his father. “Indeed, Castle Kaneda is at the regional border. It’s pretty close here too, in fact.” Some details then had the young lord wondering. “They’ve already captured Castle Oja, so why move him to Castle Kaneda? They’re surely planning something. A trap for us, perhaps?”
“But it matters little. Trap or not, I cannot let this opportunity pass us by. We will mount a rescue as soon as we can.” Takeshi declared to Shizuka.
”Ah. Forgive me, Young Lord.” Started Shizuka. ”With all due respect… I’m afraid that I must advise against such an action. Our party members have just got done with a perilous mission and need proper time to heal. This is ignoring the fact that not everyone has returned as of yet. They often say that discretion is the better part of valor, Takeshi-dono. I understand and sympathize with you, but as your vice-captain, I urge you to reconsider…”
Takeshi wanted to protest, every second they wasted could mean the opportunity for his father’s rescue passing them by. Still, he was the acting Island Lord now. He was responsible for far more people now than before the invasion, which meant he cannot make decisions lightly and hastily anymore. “I… You’re right. We should rest and prepare. That way, we’ll be fully ready once we assault Castle Kaneda.” He decided to follow Shizuka’s advice.
“I’ll let Kikyo and the others know about this and tell them to prepare as well.” Takeshi finished. “Is there anything else that needs to be talked about?”
Shizuka’s face dawned a look of relief at Takeshi’s acceptance of his reasoning. ”Yes, Milord, there is the matter of this man.” He said, motioning towards the still unconscious Na’Kratz. ”While staging an assault on the castle is unwise, it doesn’t mean we still can’t take some form of action.” He gave Takeshi a sharp, bit reassuring look.
”I believe his rank in the Varjan army is comparable to Serek’uar’s, so he should be an invaluable source of information, if persuaded correctly. Also, perhaps we could do a little reconnaissance on the castle and the area surrounding it. Ayu is still assisting the freed civilians at the bay, but perhaps you know of someone that could aid in that effort? Perhaps Kageho-san or Takamori-san with his eyes? The other members of the taskforce are strong, but they need rest and, uh…well…” He scratched his cheek with an exasperated expression.
”Let us say that ‘stealth’ isn’t their strong suit…”
Takeshi could not help but smile at the last line. “A wise suggestion. I’ll tell Kageho and anyone who can join her to go on ahead and scout out the castle, see what we’re up against and potentially find out where exactly the Varjans are keeping my father. We’ll join up with them once we’re ready.”
“And this man’s name is Na’kratz, huh?” Takeshi looked at the missing-armed, unconscious Varjan. “I’ll leave the interrogation to you and the rest of the taskforce. Let’s hope he’s the more… opportunistic kind of Varjan rather than a one who has blind loyalty to the dark kingdom. The former has looser lips than the latter.”
“That said, do remember that not everything that comes out of his mouth is the truth.”
”Indeed.” Shizuka replied. Began to restrain the Varjan commander. ”We should have the temple herbalists and healers tend to him enough to where he won’t go into shock. I stopped the bleeding as best I could, but I got a little carried away in the battle. I’ll be sure to have a nice little chat with him when he wakes up.” He said.
”Also, no disrespect to Kageho’s capabilities or anyone else she’s able to take along with her, but please tell them to be careful. As you’ve stated, something doesn’t feel right about all this…”
Takeshi nodded. “I will. And… thanks, by the way. You and the taskforce have done much for Shizuyama.”
”Takeshi-dono.” He said. ”I have much news, some good and more concerning. Firstly, we were successful in liberating Komatsu Bay, thanks in part of the efforts of Ayu and her brother - who apparently shares a name with me…” Shizuka’s face showed a bit of exasperation as he mentioned his smaller, chubbier compatriot.
”However, I have more new anent the finer points of the Varjan invasion as a whole.” He pointed to the unconscious Na’Kratz he was carrying on his back. ”If you’ve any business you need to attend to currently, I suggest you do so first, as what I have to say will require some time for careful prep.”
“Huh. So Ayu has a brother named Shizuka? That… can get confusing.” Takeshi remarked. “Anyway, I don’t really have anything to do right now. Why don’t I join you in putting away that Varjan and you can tell me on the way?” The young lord was eager and impatient in getting news about the invasion. They were close to saving his father, after all, and any new developments must be known immediately.
Walking with the young heir, Shizuka would find a place to sit him down for a moment, as he then turned back to Takeshi. ”This man is named Na’Kratz.” He said. ”He apparently is one of the strongest Varjan commanders in the invasion force. We defeated him, however, in the battle that liberated the bay. What mainl concerns me is what some of the lower ranking officers have informed me of.” He looked at Takeshi with solemn eyes.
”We have confirmed the mastermind behind the invasion of your lands: They call him Lord Serek’uar, apparently going by a title known as Sapphire Prince. From what Ayu has told me, they are feared as the strongest spellcasters within the Varjan Kingdom, and we would have to be wary when the day comes where we clash with him. Also, we have confirmed that your father Hideo-sama, is in fact alive and is being held at Kaneda Castle. I understand that it’s just at the borders between the Onrai and Saikoten regions? We’ll have to be extremely methodical as to how we approach this matter.”
”At the very least, I hope that this can bring you some sense of relief, now that we know your father is alive.”
“A Varjan Sapphire Prince… I’ve heard of them, but I never thought I would be facing one in a war.” Takeshi remarked, unnerved by Shizuka’s news. “And I’ve also heard of Serek’uar. It’s mostly stories from when we and The Order are still friends, but they told of a particularly violent and destructive Varjan named Serek’uar. Despite his affiliation with the brilliant strategists and tacticians of The Azure Circle, Serek himself isn’t terribly intelligent. Still, his penchant for destruction allows him a high position in the hierarchy.” The young lord revealed.
“We should rescue my father as soon as we can then. He’ll know what to do.” Takeshi affirmed his confidence and belief in his father. “Indeed, Castle Kaneda is at the regional border. It’s pretty close here too, in fact.” Some details then had the young lord wondering. “They’ve already captured Castle Oja, so why move him to Castle Kaneda? They’re surely planning something. A trap for us, perhaps?”
“But it matters little. Trap or not, I cannot let this opportunity pass us by. We will mount a rescue as soon as we can.” Takeshi declared to Shizuka.
”Ah. Forgive me, Young Lord.” Started Shizuka. ”With all due respect… I’m afraid that I must advise against such an action. Our party members have just got done with a perilous mission and need proper time to heal. This is ignoring the fact that not everyone has returned as of yet. They often say that discretion is the better part of valor, Takeshi-dono. I understand and sympathize with you, but as your vice-captain, I urge you to reconsider…”
Takeshi wanted to protest, every second they wasted could mean the opportunity for his father’s rescue passing them by. Still, he was the acting Island Lord now. He was responsible for far more people now than before the invasion, which meant he cannot make decisions lightly and hastily anymore. “I… You’re right. We should rest and prepare. That way, we’ll be fully ready once we assault Castle Kaneda.” He decided to follow Shizuka’s advice.
“I’ll let Kikyo and the others know about this and tell them to prepare as well.” Takeshi finished. “Is there anything else that needs to be talked about?”
Shizuka’s face dawned a look of relief at Takeshi’s acceptance of his reasoning. ”Yes, Milord, there is the matter of this man.” He said, motioning towards the still unconscious Na’Kratz. ”While staging an assault on the castle is unwise, it doesn’t mean we still can’t take some form of action.” He gave Takeshi a sharp, bit reassuring look.
”I believe his rank in the Varjan army is comparable to Serek’uar’s, so he should be an invaluable source of information, if persuaded correctly. Also, perhaps we could do a little reconnaissance on the castle and the area surrounding it. Ayu is still assisting the freed civilians at the bay, but perhaps you know of someone that could aid in that effort? Perhaps Kageho-san or Takamori-san with his eyes? The other members of the taskforce are strong, but they need rest and, uh…well…” He scratched his cheek with an exasperated expression.
”Let us say that ‘stealth’ isn’t their strong suit…”
Takeshi could not help but smile at the last line. “A wise suggestion. I’ll tell Kageho and anyone who can join her to go on ahead and scout out the castle, see what we’re up against and potentially find out where exactly the Varjans are keeping my father. We’ll join up with them once we’re ready.”
“And this man’s name is Na’kratz, huh?” Takeshi looked at the missing-armed, unconscious Varjan. “I’ll leave the interrogation to you and the rest of the taskforce. Let’s hope he’s the more… opportunistic kind of Varjan rather than a one who has blind loyalty to the dark kingdom. The former has looser lips than the latter.”
“That said, do remember that not everything that comes out of his mouth is the truth.”
”Indeed.” Shizuka replied. Began to restrain the Varjan commander. ”We should have the temple herbalists and healers tend to him enough to where he won’t go into shock. I stopped the bleeding as best I could, but I got a little carried away in the battle. I’ll be sure to have a nice little chat with him when he wakes up.” He said.
”Also, no disrespect to Kageho’s capabilities or anyone else she’s able to take along with her, but please tell them to be careful. As you’ve stated, something doesn’t feel right about all this…”
Takeshi nodded. “I will. And… thanks, by the way. You and the taskforce have done much for Shizuyama.”
Gringor arriv'd at Terauchi Temple with his spoils, a wagon with sev'ral boxes of unknown items and an unconscious prison'r did clothe in black.
"Ho, gring'r!" Takeshi did greet. "What has't thee did get th're?"
A curious Revuel hath opened one of the boxes and did see yond th're w're pots inside enwheeling an unknown white powd'r. The spellcast'r tooketh noteth of the scent bef're dipping a fing'r into the powd'r and giving t a licketh. "looks dang'rous, smells dang'rous and tastes dang'rous. " yond wast revuel's v'rdict. "what jump didst thee bringeth h're, orc?"
If 't be true Shizuka and/or Liliana w're presenteth, those gents wouldst clearly recognizeth the tied-up m'rcenary Fatal Pulse and the white powd'r being the explosive Nolkro drugs
---
~ @AzureKnight (HIN, ATS & SHI), @Enkryption (ALI & CRL), @The Irish Tree (EUL & LIL), @Rezod92, @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI) ~
~ @AzureKnight (HIN, ATS & SHI), @Enkryption (ALI & CRL), @The Irish Tree (EUL & LIL), @Rezod92, @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI) ~
"We shall beest departing, mil'rd. "
'Twas already nighttime at which hour Kageho and most of Takeshi's human allies liketh Kazenosuke and Yurine, hath left Terauchi temple f'r castle Kaneda to scout and conducteth reconnaissance. Kikyo eke hath brought most of the oth'r Shizuyaman warri'rs with h'r too, with the reasoneth yond the lady did plan on creating a staging area f'r the inevitable assault on the castle.
Takeshi did stay behind to rest 'longside the taskf'rce. Aft'r kageho's group hath left, that gent wenteth to talketh to the taskf'rce. "I've hath sent the oth'rs to scout castle Kaneda. Those gents'll belike beest done once we catcheth up to those folk. " that gent hath said. "While i'd liketh f'r us to headeth th're immediately and rescueth mine own fath'r, I und'rstand if 't be true thee guys needeth m're timeth to rest 'r to dudgeon oth'r things. "
"I'll beest h're too, if 't be true any of thee needeth me. " the young l'rd did finish. "Just alloweth me knoweth if 't be true we're eft to moveth out. Speaking of yond, i'd very much liketh t if 't be true we all taketh parteth in the rescueth. I'm quaint sure the Varjans aren't going to alloweth mine own fath'r wend easily. I'm going to expecteth the stiffest of resistances. "
Shizuyama Wilderness
~ @Restalaan (GRI) ~
But the mercenary had some tricks left in his sleeve before he could pass out, he unsheathed his swords and thrusted the blades at Gringor's face. The High Orc's physiology protected him from any sort of injury, but the pain did force him to release the mercenary.
"The name's Keith North, by the way. Just so you know what to call me and not have trouble talking about me." The mercenary introduced himself, for a strange reason. "I've danced with some of your fellow taskforce members too. Cost me quite a fortune, so I'm a little pissed at your little ragtag bunch of misfits!"
Keith then lunged at Gringor, swinging his swords at the latter with wild abandon. Confident that without his weapon, Gringor was defenseless.
Feeling the swords smacking against his face, Gringor gripped loosened for a moment before the mercenary took advantage of it and freed themselves in an instant.
His cheeks twitched fiercely at the impact as he let out a sharp breath as the latter introduced himself as Keith.
Hearing briefly that he had tussled with the others before, Gringor wondered who it was as they let up a good fight away.
Well, that means it's all his now.
Arms tucked closer as Gringor dodged the first few strikes and distanced himself.
The moment Keith chased after him, only then did Gringor raised his arm. Heedless of the risk and would've done the same move even without armor on him.
Blocking the blade with his limbs, it screeched against the armor as Gringor stomped forward mightily. His foot dug deep before delivering a sharp blow to the liver in conjunction, leading to a devastating counter-strike.
Following through, he grabbed Keith outstretched arm and proceed to keep raining more blows with the other hand. This time not planning to let go at all as he continued this brutal onslaught.
"Ow! Why the liver?!"
Keith was then subjected to an unending barrage of punches to his face. With one of his arms in Gringor's grip which held him in place, evading was out of the question. But the mercenary still had moves he could play, Keith blocked the next punch with his free arm before using it to lock Gringor's punching arm. He also did the same with the other pair of arms.
With their arms locked onto each other, Keith leaned his head back before delivering a sharp headbutt unto the High Orc's head.
*SMACK*
A commendable move, but the mercenary severely underestimated Gringor's physiology. The only thing Keith managed to accomplish with that move was knocking himself out, his body falling limp in the High Orc's arms. And with that, the fight was finished.
Gringor continued his furious barrage right until his arm was locked, then the other. Moving on instinct the moment Keith reared his head back, he readied himself for the oncoming move.
True enough, Keith forehead met his and Gringor felt the impact rearing down his own by returning a similar headbutt.
From that exchange, Gringor prepared himself for the next one since it was now his arena but Keith head lolled back and body slacked under his grip.
Gringor blinked for a moment before realizing that the latter knocked himself unconscious.
Hmm. Well, that was fun at least. Gringor sighed as he looked towards the sky. It had taken longer and fights probably been over since he can no longer feel it in the air.
His eyes then fell onto large cart now bereft of its owner before an idea struck him, hauling Keith across his shoulders, Gringor tore the trappings off, tied up Keith arms and legs firmly before unceremoniously ditching him in the cart.
With that done, Gringor took over the cart and pushed it back towards their base. It was his spoils of war after all.
It wouldn't take long for him to reach it, and once done, he decided to hand over the prisoner as well as show whatever he captured to the Warboss so they can divvy it up.
"The name's Keith North, by the way. Just so you know what to call me and not have trouble talking about me." The mercenary introduced himself, for a strange reason. "I've danced with some of your fellow taskforce members too. Cost me quite a fortune, so I'm a little pissed at your little ragtag bunch of misfits!"
Keith then lunged at Gringor, swinging his swords at the latter with wild abandon. Confident that without his weapon, Gringor was defenseless.
Feeling the swords smacking against his face, Gringor gripped loosened for a moment before the mercenary took advantage of it and freed themselves in an instant.
His cheeks twitched fiercely at the impact as he let out a sharp breath as the latter introduced himself as Keith.
Hearing briefly that he had tussled with the others before, Gringor wondered who it was as they let up a good fight away.
Well, that means it's all his now.
Arms tucked closer as Gringor dodged the first few strikes and distanced himself.
The moment Keith chased after him, only then did Gringor raised his arm. Heedless of the risk and would've done the same move even without armor on him.
Blocking the blade with his limbs, it screeched against the armor as Gringor stomped forward mightily. His foot dug deep before delivering a sharp blow to the liver in conjunction, leading to a devastating counter-strike.
Following through, he grabbed Keith outstretched arm and proceed to keep raining more blows with the other hand. This time not planning to let go at all as he continued this brutal onslaught.
"Ow! Why the liver?!"
Keith was then subjected to an unending barrage of punches to his face. With one of his arms in Gringor's grip which held him in place, evading was out of the question. But the mercenary still had moves he could play, Keith blocked the next punch with his free arm before using it to lock Gringor's punching arm. He also did the same with the other pair of arms.
With their arms locked onto each other, Keith leaned his head back before delivering a sharp headbutt unto the High Orc's head.
*SMACK*
A commendable move, but the mercenary severely underestimated Gringor's physiology. The only thing Keith managed to accomplish with that move was knocking himself out, his body falling limp in the High Orc's arms. And with that, the fight was finished.
Gringor continued his furious barrage right until his arm was locked, then the other. Moving on instinct the moment Keith reared his head back, he readied himself for the oncoming move.
True enough, Keith forehead met his and Gringor felt the impact rearing down his own by returning a similar headbutt.
From that exchange, Gringor prepared himself for the next one since it was now his arena but Keith head lolled back and body slacked under his grip.
Gringor blinked for a moment before realizing that the latter knocked himself unconscious.
Hmm. Well, that was fun at least. Gringor sighed as he looked towards the sky. It had taken longer and fights probably been over since he can no longer feel it in the air.
His eyes then fell onto large cart now bereft of its owner before an idea struck him, hauling Keith across his shoulders, Gringor tore the trappings off, tied up Keith arms and legs firmly before unceremoniously ditching him in the cart.
With that done, Gringor took over the cart and pushed it back towards their base. It was his spoils of war after all.
It wouldn't take long for him to reach it, and once done, he decided to hand over the prisoner as well as show whatever he captured to the Warboss so they can divvy it up.
Terauchi Temple
~ @Restalaan (SKA) ~
"Probably wanted to 'convince' him to join the Varjans. Not standard tactics but there's precedence. That's how they managed to grow so fast over the years too. So we got some time, they'll need to reorganized too since they lost the momentum."
"Ha! I say best of luck with them!" Takeshi responded to Skarsneek with utter confidence. "My father isn't the most flexible person out there. After what the Varjans did, he would ask no less than the Varjan king's head before he can be brought to the table."
It was then that Shizuka pulled Takeshi away for a private chat.
"Also, who are you?"
Revuel was genuinely surprised to discover that he and Skarsneek have not met yet. "We have not met? I was here when the temple was attacked, Sir Skarsneek. Well, I suppose things were going pretty fast then." The spellcaster then cleared his throat. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Revuel Arvida. Former Warlock of The Scarce Legion, most of whom are now assaulting this island."
"I came when I heard many Scarce legionnaires gathered here. Fortunately, I met with Lady Kyouko who pointed me at the right direction."
---
~ @AzureKnight (SHI) ~
~ @AzureKnight (SHI) ~
Having returned to Terauchi Temple with his comrades, Shizuka would gently lay the sleeping Liliana on a jasmine leaf that stemmed by a tree next to a small pond. Double-checking to ensure she was alright, he then made his way over to Takeshi with a serious look on his face.
”Takeshi-dono.” He said. ”I have much news, some good and more concerning. Firstly, we were successful in liberating Komatsu Bay, thanks in part of the efforts of Ayu and her brother - who apparently shares a name with me…” Shizuka’s face showed a bit of exasperation as he mentioned his smaller, chubbier compatriot.
”However, I have more new anent the finer points of the Varjan invasion as a whole.” He pointed to the unconscious Na’Kratz he was carrying on his back. ”If you’ve any business you need to attend to currently, I suggest you do so first, as what I have to say will require some time for careful prep.”
“Huh. So Ayu has a brother named Shizuka? That… can get confusing.” Takeshi remarked. “Anyway, I don’t really have anything to do right now. Why don’t I join you in putting away that Varjan and you can tell me on the way?” The young lord was eager and impatient in getting news about the invasion. They were close to saving his father, after all, and any new developments must be known immediately.
Walking with the young heir, Shizuka would find a place to sit him down for a moment, as he then turned back to Takeshi. ”This man is named Na’Kratz.” He said. ”He apparently is one of the strongest Varjan commanders in the invasion force. We defeated him, however, in the battle that liberated the bay. What mainl concerns me is what some of the lower ranking officers have informed me of.” He looked at Takeshi with solemn eyes.
”We have confirmed the mastermind behind the invasion of your lands: They call him Lord Serek’uar, apparently going by a title known as Sapphire Prince. From what Ayu has told me, they are feared as the strongest spellcasters within the Varjan Kingdom, and we would have to be wary when the day comes where we clash with him. Also, we have confirmed that your father Hideo-sama, is in fact alive and is being held at Kaneda Castle. I understand that it’s just at the borders between the Onrai and Saikoten regions? We’ll have to be extremely methodical as to how we approach this matter.”
”At the very least, I hope that this can bring you some sense of relief, now that we know your father is alive.”
“A Varjan Sapphire Prince… I’ve heard of them, but I never thought I would be facing one in a war.” Takeshi remarked, unnerved by Shizuka’s news. “And I’ve also heard of Serek’uar. It’s mostly stories from when we and The Order are still friends, but they told of a particularly violent and destructive Varjan named Serek’uar. Despite his affiliation with the brilliant strategists and tacticians of The Azure Circle, Serek himself isn’t terribly intelligent. Still, his penchant for destruction allows him a high position in the hierarchy.” The young lord revealed.
“We should rescue my father as soon as we can then. He’ll know what to do.” Takeshi affirmed his confidence and belief in his father. “Indeed, Castle Kaneda is at the regional border. It’s pretty close here too, in fact.” Some details then had the young lord wondering. “They’ve already captured Castle Oja, so why move him to Castle Kaneda? They’re surely planning something. A trap for us, perhaps?”
“But it matters little. Trap or not, I cannot let this opportunity pass us by. We will mount a rescue as soon as we can.” Takeshi declared to Shizuka.
”Ah. Forgive me, Young Lord.” Started Shizuka. ”With all due respect… I’m afraid that I must advise against such an action. Our party members have just got done with a perilous mission and need proper time to heal. This is ignoring the fact that not everyone has returned as of yet. They often say that discretion is the better part of valor, Takeshi-dono. I understand and sympathize with you, but as your vice-captain, I urge you to reconsider…”
Takeshi wanted to protest, every second they wasted could mean the opportunity for his father’s rescue passing them by. Still, he was the acting Island Lord now. He was responsible for far more people now than before the invasion, which meant he cannot make decisions lightly and hastily anymore. “I… You’re right. We should rest and prepare. That way, we’ll be fully ready once we assault Castle Kaneda.” He decided to follow Shizuka’s advice.
“I’ll let Kikyo and the others know about this and tell them to prepare as well.” Takeshi finished. “Is there anything else that needs to be talked about?”
Shizuka’s face dawned a look of relief at Takeshi’s acceptance of his reasoning. ”Yes, Milord, there is the matter of this man.” He said, motioning towards the still unconscious Na’Kratz. ”While staging an assault on the castle is unwise, it doesn’t mean we still can’t take some form of action.” He gave Takeshi a sharp, bit reassuring look.
”I believe his rank in the Varjan army is comparable to Serek’uar’s, so he should be an invaluable source of information, if persuaded correctly. Also, perhaps we could do a little reconnaissance on the castle and the area surrounding it. Ayu is still assisting the freed civilians at the bay, but perhaps you know of someone that could aid in that effort? Perhaps Kageho-san or Takamori-san with his eyes? The other members of the taskforce are strong, but they need rest and, uh…well…” He scratched his cheek with an exasperated expression.
”Let us say that ‘stealth’ isn’t their strong suit…”
Takeshi could not help but smile at the last line. “A wise suggestion. I’ll tell Kageho and anyone who can join her to go on ahead and scout out the castle, see what we’re up against and potentially find out where exactly the Varjans are keeping my father. We’ll join up with them once we’re ready.”
“And this man’s name is Na’kratz, huh?” Takeshi looked at the missing-armed, unconscious Varjan. “I’ll leave the interrogation to you and the rest of the taskforce. Let’s hope he’s the more… opportunistic kind of Varjan rather than a one who has blind loyalty to the dark kingdom. The former has looser lips than the latter.”
“That said, do remember that not everything that comes out of his mouth is the truth.”
”Indeed.” Shizuka replied. Began to restrain the Varjan commander. ”We should have the temple herbalists and healers tend to him enough to where he won’t go into shock. I stopped the bleeding as best I could, but I got a little carried away in the battle. I’ll be sure to have a nice little chat with him when he wakes up.” He said.
”Also, no disrespect to Kageho’s capabilities or anyone else she’s able to take along with her, but please tell them to be careful. As you’ve stated, something doesn’t feel right about all this…”
Takeshi nodded. “I will. And… thanks, by the way. You and the taskforce have done much for Shizuyama.”
”Takeshi-dono.” He said. ”I have much news, some good and more concerning. Firstly, we were successful in liberating Komatsu Bay, thanks in part of the efforts of Ayu and her brother - who apparently shares a name with me…” Shizuka’s face showed a bit of exasperation as he mentioned his smaller, chubbier compatriot.
”However, I have more new anent the finer points of the Varjan invasion as a whole.” He pointed to the unconscious Na’Kratz he was carrying on his back. ”If you’ve any business you need to attend to currently, I suggest you do so first, as what I have to say will require some time for careful prep.”
“Huh. So Ayu has a brother named Shizuka? That… can get confusing.” Takeshi remarked. “Anyway, I don’t really have anything to do right now. Why don’t I join you in putting away that Varjan and you can tell me on the way?” The young lord was eager and impatient in getting news about the invasion. They were close to saving his father, after all, and any new developments must be known immediately.
Walking with the young heir, Shizuka would find a place to sit him down for a moment, as he then turned back to Takeshi. ”This man is named Na’Kratz.” He said. ”He apparently is one of the strongest Varjan commanders in the invasion force. We defeated him, however, in the battle that liberated the bay. What mainl concerns me is what some of the lower ranking officers have informed me of.” He looked at Takeshi with solemn eyes.
”We have confirmed the mastermind behind the invasion of your lands: They call him Lord Serek’uar, apparently going by a title known as Sapphire Prince. From what Ayu has told me, they are feared as the strongest spellcasters within the Varjan Kingdom, and we would have to be wary when the day comes where we clash with him. Also, we have confirmed that your father Hideo-sama, is in fact alive and is being held at Kaneda Castle. I understand that it’s just at the borders between the Onrai and Saikoten regions? We’ll have to be extremely methodical as to how we approach this matter.”
”At the very least, I hope that this can bring you some sense of relief, now that we know your father is alive.”
“A Varjan Sapphire Prince… I’ve heard of them, but I never thought I would be facing one in a war.” Takeshi remarked, unnerved by Shizuka’s news. “And I’ve also heard of Serek’uar. It’s mostly stories from when we and The Order are still friends, but they told of a particularly violent and destructive Varjan named Serek’uar. Despite his affiliation with the brilliant strategists and tacticians of The Azure Circle, Serek himself isn’t terribly intelligent. Still, his penchant for destruction allows him a high position in the hierarchy.” The young lord revealed.
“We should rescue my father as soon as we can then. He’ll know what to do.” Takeshi affirmed his confidence and belief in his father. “Indeed, Castle Kaneda is at the regional border. It’s pretty close here too, in fact.” Some details then had the young lord wondering. “They’ve already captured Castle Oja, so why move him to Castle Kaneda? They’re surely planning something. A trap for us, perhaps?”
“But it matters little. Trap or not, I cannot let this opportunity pass us by. We will mount a rescue as soon as we can.” Takeshi declared to Shizuka.
”Ah. Forgive me, Young Lord.” Started Shizuka. ”With all due respect… I’m afraid that I must advise against such an action. Our party members have just got done with a perilous mission and need proper time to heal. This is ignoring the fact that not everyone has returned as of yet. They often say that discretion is the better part of valor, Takeshi-dono. I understand and sympathize with you, but as your vice-captain, I urge you to reconsider…”
Takeshi wanted to protest, every second they wasted could mean the opportunity for his father’s rescue passing them by. Still, he was the acting Island Lord now. He was responsible for far more people now than before the invasion, which meant he cannot make decisions lightly and hastily anymore. “I… You’re right. We should rest and prepare. That way, we’ll be fully ready once we assault Castle Kaneda.” He decided to follow Shizuka’s advice.
“I’ll let Kikyo and the others know about this and tell them to prepare as well.” Takeshi finished. “Is there anything else that needs to be talked about?”
Shizuka’s face dawned a look of relief at Takeshi’s acceptance of his reasoning. ”Yes, Milord, there is the matter of this man.” He said, motioning towards the still unconscious Na’Kratz. ”While staging an assault on the castle is unwise, it doesn’t mean we still can’t take some form of action.” He gave Takeshi a sharp, bit reassuring look.
”I believe his rank in the Varjan army is comparable to Serek’uar’s, so he should be an invaluable source of information, if persuaded correctly. Also, perhaps we could do a little reconnaissance on the castle and the area surrounding it. Ayu is still assisting the freed civilians at the bay, but perhaps you know of someone that could aid in that effort? Perhaps Kageho-san or Takamori-san with his eyes? The other members of the taskforce are strong, but they need rest and, uh…well…” He scratched his cheek with an exasperated expression.
”Let us say that ‘stealth’ isn’t their strong suit…”
Takeshi could not help but smile at the last line. “A wise suggestion. I’ll tell Kageho and anyone who can join her to go on ahead and scout out the castle, see what we’re up against and potentially find out where exactly the Varjans are keeping my father. We’ll join up with them once we’re ready.”
“And this man’s name is Na’kratz, huh?” Takeshi looked at the missing-armed, unconscious Varjan. “I’ll leave the interrogation to you and the rest of the taskforce. Let’s hope he’s the more… opportunistic kind of Varjan rather than a one who has blind loyalty to the dark kingdom. The former has looser lips than the latter.”
“That said, do remember that not everything that comes out of his mouth is the truth.”
”Indeed.” Shizuka replied. Began to restrain the Varjan commander. ”We should have the temple herbalists and healers tend to him enough to where he won’t go into shock. I stopped the bleeding as best I could, but I got a little carried away in the battle. I’ll be sure to have a nice little chat with him when he wakes up.” He said.
”Also, no disrespect to Kageho’s capabilities or anyone else she’s able to take along with her, but please tell them to be careful. As you’ve stated, something doesn’t feel right about all this…”
Takeshi nodded. “I will. And… thanks, by the way. You and the taskforce have done much for Shizuyama.”
Gringor arrived at Terauchi Temple with his spoils, a wagon with several boxes of unknown items and an unconscious prisoner clad in black.
"Ho, Gringor!" Takeshi greeted. "What have you got there?"
A curious Revuel opened one of the boxes and saw that there were pots inside containing an unknown white powder. The spellcaster took note of the scent before dipping a finger into the powder and giving it a lick. "Looks dangerous, smells dangerous and tastes dangerous." That was Revuel's verdict. "What exactly did you bring here, Orc?"
If Shizuka and/or Liliana were present, they would clearly recognize the tied-up mercenary Fatal Pulse and the white powder being the explosive Nolkro drugs.
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~ @AzureKnight (HIN, ATS & SHI), @Enkryption (ALI & CRL), @The Irish Tree (EUL & LIL), @Rezod92, @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI) ~
~ @AzureKnight (HIN, ATS & SHI), @Enkryption (ALI & CRL), @The Irish Tree (EUL & LIL), @Rezod92, @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI) ~
"We will be departing, milord."
It was already nighttime when Kageho and most of Takeshi's human allies like Kazenosuke and Yurine, left Terauchi Temple for Castle Kaneda to scout and conduct reconnaissance. Kikyo also brought most of the other Shizuyaman warriors with her too, with the reason that she planned on creating a staging area for the inevitable assault on the castle.
Takeshi stayed behind to rest alongside the taskforce. After Kageho's group left, he went to talk to the taskforce. "I've sent the others to scout Castle Kaneda. They'll probably be done once we catch up to them." He said. "While I'd like for us to head there immediately and rescue my father, I understand if you guys need more time to rest or to handle other things."
"I'll be here too, if any of you need me." The young lord finished. "Just let me know if we're ready to move out. Speaking of that, I'd really like it if we all take part in the rescue. I'm pretty sure the Varjans aren't going to let my father go easily. I'm going to expect the stiffest of resistances."
~~ TAKESHI'S JOURNEY ~~
(REQUIRES ALL PLAYER CHARACTERS)
"I finally have all that I need to rescue my father from the Varjans. The only thing missing now is where the invaders have him imprisoned. I'm coming for you, father. Just wait a little longer."
-Takeshi Oja
"I finally have all that I need to rescue my father from the Varjans. The only thing missing now is where the invaders have him imprisoned. I'm coming for you, father. Just wait a little longer."
-Takeshi Oja
~~ TAKAMORI TALES ~~
"Lord Takamori's traitorous former student, Setsuna, is training Mongol archers across Shizuyama. Lord Takamori posits that she plans on attacking Omi Springs, his hometown and a refuge for villagers. We should meet with Lord Takamori as soon as possible."
-Takeshi Oja
-Takeshi Oja
~~ SORAE TALES ~~
"Sorae is on the hunt for Sogen, one of the conspirators behind her family's murder. To track him down, Sorae has asked us to speak with Ayu who may know where we can find him."
-Takeshi Oja
-Takeshi Oja
~~ SHIZUKA (MERCHANT) TALES ~~
"One of the farms near Komatsu Bay looks like it's had some trouble. Someone should make sure the people there are all right."
-Takeshi Oja
-Takeshi Oja
~~ TALES OF SHIZUYAMA ~~
A villager woman remarked to the taskforce member as the latter passed by.
"You better watch out if you're passing Yabo Forest, yokai. It's haunted by angry spirits... Dead samurai, eager to spill blood."
"People go into the woods and never come out. Varjan and Shizuyaman alike! The bodies that turn up have all been killed by Shizuyaman blades..."
"You better watch out if you're passing Yabo Forest, yokai. It's haunted by angry spirits... Dead samurai, eager to spill blood."
"People go into the woods and never come out. Varjan and Shizuyaman alike! The bodies that turn up have all been killed by Shizuyaman blades..."
A peasant man eating barbecued meat on a stick was startled when the taskforce member approached. It appeared he has news.
"Yokai! You have to tell Lord Takeshi, there is another samurai noble who survived Sanjo Beach. His name is Lord Tonchiki. He's in his abode southeast of here. If you go see him, I'm sure he would join your cause."
"Err, maybe not. I guess you'll need Lord Takeshi himself to convince him."
"Yokai! You have to tell Lord Takeshi, there is another samurai noble who survived Sanjo Beach. His name is Lord Tonchiki. He's in his abode southeast of here. If you go see him, I'm sure he would join your cause."
"Err, maybe not. I guess you'll need Lord Takeshi himself to convince him."
A villager sitting on some stone steps in the temple stood up when the taskforce member approached.
"Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by that shrine priestess that started a fight here not too long ago."
"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not trained."
"Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by that shrine priestess that started a fight here not too long ago."
"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not trained."
A peasant man warming his hands on a bonfire noticed the taskforce member passing by.
"Yokai, you must do something! It's Ayane's sake brewery in Imahama. That brewery is the pride of Shizuyama, but soon there will be none left. The Varjans are taking it by force."
"Yokai, you must do something! It's Ayane's sake brewery in Imahama. That brewery is the pride of Shizuyama, but soon there will be none left. The Varjans are taking it by force."
~~ LEGENDARY TALES ~~
"Dealing with these students of the Heavenly Strike was more difficult than we thought. They have already thrown back two of the taskforce. However, the yokai fought them separately and at different times, so perhaps a more cooperative approach would be more fruitful."
-Takeshi Oja
-Takeshi Oja
