[IC] Moon Radics // Book 1 - Shepherds from the Stars

[Billsomething]

Dan was freaking out, he was fine and expecting giant rats but not giant mosquitoes (Dan is scarred of Mosquitoes). Dan then saw that Theo was in trouble but Dan had no idea what sort of spells he had in his arsenal so he looked at D.O "Uh orb lady what can i do?" Dead Dan asked the aforementioned orb turned around and looked at Dan "Why Do you wanna know that now!?!" D.O shrieked as she dodged one of F.G.M (Fucking Giant Mosquitoes)

they appeared to be ignoring Dan. "Don't Ask me just Tell me what i can do!!" he said frustrated D.O was a bit startled at Dan's tone "You can call upon flesh-locusts and cast fire balls" Dan was a bit-disappointed when he learned that he couldn't raise an army of the undead immediately, but there was no point in arguing of what magic he doesn't have and what he has.

all he needs to do now is to help his friends so he yelled for Theo to duck as he shot a fireball at the Mosquito @Tancuras

[Cuccoruler]

Both the conversations of Lance and Rosa were interrupted by the attacking Mosquitos. "I was expecting giant rats, but this is much better." Rosa said as she got a sadistic look on her face. She held her bat at the ready and looked to her orb. "What are my moves?" Rosa asked the orb as she turned towards it. She wasn't about to go into a fight unprepared, much the same way one wouldn't enter a baseball game unprepared. The orb seemed to shake a bit. Shifting to a slightly deeper red. "Hard Hitter, Home run, and Berserker Mode." The orb answered. Rosa smiled at this she liked the sound of one of her moves being called Home Run. "Alright then, this will be fun!" Rosa said with a smile. She was rather slow in approach a mosquito, as she got closer she noticed the skeletal figure. He seemed a bit flustered in the situation. Rosa grinned as she ran at a mosquito heading straight toward the skeletal man. She stopped in front of him swinging her bat at the skeletal figure. "HOME RUN!" Rosa yelled as she launched the mosquito out of the temple, it would be back but it would give them some time. "Common you gotta get some composure!" Rosa said to him as she grinned at him. "I'll cover you! Just do something magical, you look like the mage type!" Rosa said with a playful smile holding her bat at the ready to defend the skeleton.
@Billsomething

Lance the meantime looked at his own orb. "What do I got?" Lance asked the orb. It quickly replied after shaking a bit. "Summon Spear, and Blue Blast." Lance got a grin on his face before putting his helmet back up. "Right then, let's try the first one." Lance said with a smile, he did a quick bit of flailing around artfully before raising his hand the sky. "Summon Spear!" Lance called out. A spear then appeared in air before falling to his hand. "This thing is nice!" Lance said with a smile before running to the side of Rosa plunging a spear into the mosquito. Rosa took the chance to hit the mosquito with her bat and killing the thing. "Not so tough." Rosa said putting the bat on her shoulder, it still had some bug juices splattered on it.

[Cello]

Victoria Winchester and Kieran Croft

Veronica's disdain for the hyper brunette that insisted on intruding upon her beloved personal space was interrupted by the Sundancer named Theo's glowing orb addressing the rest of the group. Kieran was too busy admiring the walking, talking skeleton man that was with the group to pay attention, but Veronica was known for being quite attentive to detail. She listened in with a furrowed brow, turning to her own orb when the yellow orb spoke about the other shrines.
"Four are needed to activate a shrine? I'm to assume this means we'll be splitting up eventually, correct?" The violet orb danced around Veronica, opening up into an interface that held her status and party information.
You will know all this in time! No need to be so analytical over it. We have a plan. Veromica wasn't happy with the answer, but she was satisfied with the interface that had been presented before her. It was a very detailed account of what she was capable of, which wasn't much at the time. Veronica stared up at the three moons while listening to the yellow orb inform them about how they would need to learn to survive in this world. The myriad lights from the three celestial bodies painted the landscape, causing Veronica to wonder just what they would encounter here in this world.

Meanwhile Kieran's fascination with the skeleton person had subsided, and his orb quickly fluttered around him in the hopes of reclaiming it before he found something else to distract himself with.
If it pleases you, I would like you to take comfort in the fact that I will be by your side for this entire journey. Know that if there is any ever information you need I am willing and able to help most of the time! The soft, politeness of the voice was quite comforting in contrast to the brutal yelling that Veronica had dished out on him not ten minutes ago.
"Thanks, I'll keep that in mind." Kieran smiled, but before he could put in another word the yellow orb proclaimed the presence of their first enemy. Kieran drew his sword, a little disappointed that he had to start with a wooden training sword.
I deeply apologise. At the moment you are too inexperienced to wield a proper sword. With time, you will acquire better gear that will improve your status significantly.

The desire to test out his new strength was more prominent than anything else, so his expectations not being met wasn't a very big issue for him right now. Drawing the wooden sword, Kieran took a stance and charged in after the first mosquito after Gaius. The Shadow Vanguard was much quicker than Kieran, and would reach the target before him. Yet this didn't stop him from grinning with determination and raising his blade above his head with a battle cry.

Veronica stood there and watched Kieran, annoyed at how he wasn't taking this seriously at all. Those monsters could kill them if they slipped up. Veronica had no weapon to fight with, but she wanted to do something to help.
You can, her orb spoke as if it read her mind, Your first spell, Storm Rose, has a guaranteed chance to slow down your target. Cast it now before Gaius, the one clad in shadows, reaches the beast. It will prevent the creature from dodging. Veronica scanned the situation, watching the one named Gaius practically soar through shadows to approach the beast. Smiling with determination, Veronica spun around on one foot and raised her hands high above her head. A strange power flowed through her, yet at the same time she felt as though she knew how to wield it. A magic circle encrypted with various runes and the symbol of a red rose materialised above her.
"Storm Rose!" Above the mosquito Gaius was charging, a similar magic circle appeared as thunder clouds rolled in from practically nowhere. The creature spotted the circle, but was too late to respond before a bolt of lightning with a violet hue surrounding it came crashing down upon it. The mosquito's legs buckled as it shook in pain. When the spell ended, rose petals floated gently around the creature to signify that they were being slowed by Veronica's magic. The mosquito would definitely be an easy target for Gaius and Kieran now.

Before Veronica could celebrate, a third mosquito floated down from above to land behind her. Turning around, the young woman gasped in shock as the beast began charging up an attack. The little orb flew in front of her to offer more advice.
You can stop this attack, girl! What are you doing? Veronica stood there in shock, almost wincing in fear as the creature raised it's large limbs above her. The creature is charging up one of its unique attacks. Your second spell, Silence, interrupts these attacks and prevents them from being cast. Upon hearing these words, a newfound confidence overcame Veronica as she realised she may have the upper hand in this battle. Holding her palm out in front of her, the same Magic Circle as before appeared.
"Be Silent!" The creature staggered for a moment when struck by a blast of purple mist, however it continued to charge its attack.
"What's going on?" Veronica's confidence faded quicker than it arrived, and the young woman staggered backwards and fell onto her back as the creature prepared to finish her. "He didn't stop his attack."
Oh no! Dammit! You're not strong enough yet, so Silence isn't guaranteed to always work. This is bad! Veronica could hear the fear in her orb's voice. Could this already be the end for her? The creatures limbs came crashing down at an insane momentum in an attempt to impale the young girl. Veronica screamed, her body frozen in shock. Her scream probably would have caught the attention of the allies, if not for the blood curdling roar that shook the earth. In a single moment, a large green flash crashed into the creature as it was about to kill Veronica, sending it tumbling away from the young girl as the large, serpentine beast began to wrestle with the mosquito.
"Are you alright?!" An unfamiliar, young voice called from behind Veronica. She sat there in the dirt, feeling the wind press against her skin. She was still alive.

Hatori Kokonoe and Jura

A young man with silver hair materialised into the empty shrine, the distance sounds of people chatting echoing through the mostly empty building. It was incoherent and distorted, coupled with the massive headache that Hatori had received when travelling to this new world. He stumbled for a while before keeling over and groaning in pain. Beside him, a sea green orb of light buzzed around frantically.
We're already late enough as it is! You don't have time for this. The orb floated quickly to every corner of the room, as if looking for something. Oh dear! Where has it gone? I thought it'd be here.

Hatori didn't even have the energy to ask what it is the orb was looking for. His stomach felt as if it were about to burst, and he couldn't shake this feeling of utter dread and loneliness from his mind. What was wrong? Was it a side effect of travelling across worlds? Somehow the answeer didn't feel that simple. Hatori's attention was brought to his new attire. Long, draping robes of white and pale green wrapped themselves elegantly around himself all the way to his ankles. His hair was covered in little beads and chimes that had been woven into them, dangling with an array of peaceful sounds every time he took a step. He held onto the wall for balance, making his way outside the temple for some fresh air. There were people talking, but he took no notice of them. He felt completely awful, and it took all of his energy to not break down and cry. His hands found their way to his belt, where the familiar touch of wood sent a shiver up his spine. He pulled the simple flute out from his side, staring at it in disbelief. He'd never seen this instrument in his life, nor did he know how to play it. Yet as he stared at it, he found himself tearing up. This was something very important to him, but he didn't know what.

Pressing the flute to his lips, Hatori played a sad melody. The notes came to him as if he'd known them his entire life. The music sent a sensation through his body that made it ache with pain. He ceased at once, tucking the flute away to avoid causing himself any more pain. He began to slide down the temple wall, too overcome by pain and sorrow to bother introducing himself. Then, out of nowhere, the same song he had just played echoed through the tree tops. The notes were rough, and came out more as growls. A creature of some sort was making them. Hatori stood in disbelief, wondering what was capable of such a thing. Then, a large serpentine dragon rose out from the bushed of the forest and made its way to Hatori.

His eyes widened; not out of fear, but of disbelief. It was all so simple. The reason he'd felt so empty, and why the flute had brought him sadness.
"Jura!" Hatori proclaimed as the great dragon rose up on its stomach, standing at a good nine feet tall. Hatori couldn't even imagine how tall he'd be if he could stand directly upright. The creatures large green scales were smooth and shiny, and molten fire dripped from its massive jaws like saliva. It's piercing red eyes were oddly comforting to Hatori. Without a moments thought, Hatori opened his arms to embrace the creature. Jura complied, lowering his head down so that he may gently coil himself around his friend. Hatori and Jura had never met before, but they had a strong bond. It was like magic.

You and Jura will grow powerful together with the bond you share. Be warned that it will not be easy. You will have to work twice as hard to reach your true powers, the both of you. At that moment, power didn't matter to Hatori. He felt whole again, and his usual, cheerful self had finally returned. Yet he could not celebrate so easily, as the battle with large mosquitoes began. A girl who looked a few years older than Hatori was in danger, a colossal mosquito threatening to snuff her out, Without a moments thought, Hatori and Jura began charging directly at the beast. Jura made it just in time, colliding straight with it and beginning to fight with the beast in one large, tangled mess of serpent and mosquito.
"Are you alright?" Hatori asked the girl, offering her a hand. She took it very quickly, and Hatori could still feel her shaking.
"Th-Thank you. I would have been done for if you didn't show up." The girl looked absolutely pale. It worried Hatori. Perhaps she'd bitten off more than she could chew by joining this adventure.

[sMoKe]

The colossal mosquitoes came so quickly Saerena was still in mid sentence when she saw them. "Sure, a party sounds-". At the sound of buzzing Saerena glanced ahead to see a boy dressed in black running at the giant insects. At that Rosa was turned and preparing. Saerena drew her pistols, aiming at the approaching targets, and pulled the trigger...to no avail. She backed up behind Rosa, who already had her bat in swinging position. Quickly, she asked her orb "How do I use these?" The orange light responded Simple. Concentrate on the bullet. Not quite what you are used to, but you will figure it out. "Magnetism, then." Saerena watched as two targets began circling Rosa, and now Lance, in a wide flanking maneuver, waiting for an opening. She called to Rosa, "A party would be wonderful" as she focused on the bullet in her right pistol willing it forward. Suddenly the pistol kicked back, almost out of Saerena's hand, and the projectile went forward. The air around the gun crackled, electricity arcing out in random patterns. The nearest mosquito flanking Rosa was hit center mass, knocking it out of the air and sending it to the ground. Saerena took another six shots as it rose again, knocking it away but not doing lethal damage. By that time the second flanking mosquito had positioned itself between Rosa and Lance, and Saerena. Imagine the path of the bullet. It will act as you command. Saerena envisioned the bullet curving, aimed directly at Rosa, and 'fired'. The bullet curved, moving in a semi-circle to the mosquito, connecting, and knocking it away just before it struck.

Saerena was aware of battle raging around her. The skeletal figure launched a fireball at a nearby mosquito. Lance and Rosa had finished impaling a mosquito, then killing it through the magic of blunt trauma. The first man she saw, the one in all-white, had drawn his sword and had it knocked from his hands. Saerena instinctively dropped the goggles resting on her head over her eyes. The built-in rangefinder quickly estimated the energy needed to accurately hit the target, acting as an electromagnet and pulling the estimated energy from Saerena. She tried to turn this into a specific concentration of energy, slaking the electric pull and directing an equal amount into her hands. The bullets launched, following a straight path until gravity began to outweigh the magnetic range of Saerena's field. Although the bullet didn't connect, it did get the attention of the mosquito. Saerena fired a few more shots before turning to deal with another wave of mosquitos, leaving the man to fend for himself.

[Jeep Wrangler]

People had obviously started to arrive and disappear, and that meant he was behind. Though Marcus had thought about doing whatever came up first alone and rogue, he was approached by a ridiculously dressed person.

"Hey there! How you doing! I'm Lance, apparently I'm a blue Ranger. So what do you make of this place?" He took the moment to look at this 'Blue Ranger'. He looked like someone had just thrown together some plastic and paint then put it all into one in a Washing Machine. Perfect, more clowns.

"Marcus..." He only said one name, as he intended on not hanging around this fool for long. He held out his hand and briefly shook the approaching 'Comrade'"Infiltrator...What do I think? I think that this place is odd, but my opinion isn't of your concern, which I decide when it is or isn't. Next time...Think about talking to someone who actually wants to have a conversation..." It was a rude approach, but that was what Marcus was. He was only rude due to his awful social skills. He had managed to finally build confidence to talk to people, though not to talk to them the entire way he wanted. It was true, he was not a great person in his own eyes. His reputation was as low as his own self-esteem.

[Perpentach]

Sighing quietly into the freezing still night, the solemn soldier stared blankly into the vast void of the desert; fighting off the will to crawl back into the tent and sleep, all the while swatting at the swarms of mosquitoes that roam the expanse. The stilled tumbling and snoring of his slumbering squadmates are all that keeps him company while he takes his turn as lookout for their patrol.

Gazing, Mikkel notices a formation in the night sky he hadn't noticed before, a distant purple star. Didn't realize stars came across as anything but white he passingly thought. Maybe it's not a star, Neptune or something. Probably more going on there then this godforsaken, pointless patrol. Lets sit here and make sure nobody plants a bomb here for 2 bloody days! At least I don't have to deal with overhead...

Hairs standing on the back of his neck, the sudden realization that Mikkel is not the only being awake at the moment dawns on him. He turns his head to see a spherical ball of purple light, floating above him.

Traveling the world, protecting your loved ones, serving your country! Quite the glamorous life your living, isn't it?

Almost as if under a spell, Mikkel responds apathetically to what should be an alarming situation, conversing with the orb as if it was an old friend.

"What, are you the mental manifestation of my insecurities and regrets?"

Not quite. But I have been observing your daily routines, how you interact with others, the methods you employ to resolve conflict. And you've turned out to be quite the interesting individual.

"Ah, so you're just a bonafide stalker, got it" Mikkel replies dryly. The orb seems to make a chuckling motion, bobbing up and down.

Oh, but I'm much more then just that. I can offer you fulfillment, purpose; Much like what you're trying to achieve here.

Mikkel's interest is piqued, if not feeling somewhat insulted, he motions the orb to continue.

My world is in need of help, and I can offer the means for you to do so. Anything you can imagine yourself being I replicate. Well, when I say anything, anything in moderation; my powers have limits unfortunately. But that power you can attain for yourself, forcing it from the hands of the powers that would destroy my world.

Musing it over quietly, Mikkel stares at the ground How far am I willing to believe this thing, hell even believe that whats happening isn't some figment! What about my squad, would I abandon them for my own desire? I swore an oath to give everything I could to them and my country He furrows his brows, eventually concluding his decision.

"These beings that are ruining your world, are they as magical as you?"

And far more powerful. That is why I need you.

"Then I want to wield both power over the elements and the blade. To be able to adapt and change at will, so that I can be sure to overcome whatever's in my path." Mikkel promptly responds.

Interesting... What would you name this profession?

The name beckons to him as if he already knew the answer "Spell Fencer"

Good, then that is all that I needed to hear

Just as quickly as he raises himself in discern, Mikkel collapses to his knees as he feels himself pulled away.

---

This was a state of shakiness unlike anything he had experienced while enlisted. Not even the harshest of consequences served by a drill sergeant compared to this.

One Knee to the ground and covered in sweat, Mikkel stands up feeling relieved of weight. Glancing down Mikkel realizes that he is no longer wearing his field gear; he is clad in cloth and steel. Greaves, cuirass and gauntlets all shine in the light emanated from the floating orb.

"

Hope you start feeling better really soon, the conflict has already started. And I tried to speed things up for you.

"

Surroundings coming to mind, Mikkel heard the roars of beasts and sound of gunfire as screams raged beyond the door. Instinctively he grabs the sword at his side and draws it to his side, getting a feel for the weight of the bastard sword. The wavy blade glows the same purple hue of his companion, radiating a small amount of magic. "So I've got my blade, do I just use it? How do I even use it?"

"

Being a floating orb of magic, I have imprinted the knowledge and ability to wield the sword, and the magic to go with it. You can use Enchant to empower your sword with the element of your choice. Your choice of Fire, Water and Lightning.

"

Mikkel stares at his sword intently while motioning his hand over his sword. Flames burst out around the blade, heat emiting from the source. "See, you're a natural, now let's get to the thick of things! The Orb rushes forth beyond the door, with Mikkel in tandem.

Taking an eyeful, Mikkel couldn't help but pause before he rushed into battle. Before him laid the mania of battle between a dragon, ninja, gunslinger, even a robed skeleton, and a horde of mosquitoes all spurred in combat. "Fandens også..." Mikkel cursed in his native tongue.

His disbelief at the scene before him acted against his intentions to enter the bloodshed, but the duty he had sworn with The Orb pushed him onward to the fight. Observing the battle, he noted the amount of attention The Gunslinger had brought to herself as she skillfully dispatched the oversized mosquitoes. Making the decision to draw some of the heat away from her, Mikkel engages the mosquito while raising the searing sword over his shoulders, slashing horizontally in an attempt to dismember the leg. Attention drawn to the blazing light, the mosquito displayed its intelligence, skillfully avoiding the swing while riposting with its mouth in turn.

As if the sword was an extension of himself, Mikkel's sword raised in defense of himself as the mandibles at the end of the protruding mouth stabs at him, coming into contact and scorching itself. The mosquito convulsed in fear as Mikkel's blood rushed as he took his chance to strike. Adrenaline pumping, Mikkel hacked away at the grotesque mouth slicing mandibles and all, leaving a cauterized wound where its appendage used to be. Tasting the blood of the mosquito only served to fuel the sword as it burned brighter and longer, power rippling through his body. Mikkel could feel himself on a high, struggling to keep himself composed as he readied himself for the onslaught.

[Tancuras]

Theo weighed his options, his mind racing. Punch the thing? He asked himself. Literally everything I know revolves around using a sword. And his blade was currently stuck in the face of a reeling monster.

A red glow streaked past, and the Sundancer's first thoughts were fireworks as a loud bang and a flower of fire erupted on the mosquito. Theo's head spun to see Dead Dan behind him, skillfully wielding his staff. Theo had completely forgotten the presence of his allies, endlessly pouring out of the small stone shrine.

There was another one nearby, he saw, and then he saw a glint of steel that caused him to recoil in alarm. Is she pointing guns at me!? Something hissed through the air nearby, impossible to see in the night, striking the ground near him like gunshots. The mosquito spun, wings ablaze by the Lich's fire, frantically searching for the source of the noise.

Invigorated by the help, Theo charged at the beast. It was distracted, and he put two tight fists on the hilt of his sword and pulled, dislodging it. The monster buzzed loudly, flailing its long clawed legs, but Theo stepped around them, ducking under the spear-stinger. He drew up and cried out, smashing his sword into the eye-like sacks on the mosquito's face. It buzzed louder, black ichor sputtering from the wound, before finally falling to silence.

"These things are way harder to kill than mosquitoes ought to be," Theo said to nobody in particular. Everyone else was busy, thick in the swarm of monsters. I really don't want to find whatever these things normally feed on.

The Sundancer quickly scouted another beast. I have to use what little speed I have, even in the darkness. His next foe approached after be banged on his breastplate to draw its attention. It charged. Remembering his last encounter, Theo carefully sidestepped the stinger and slashed hard into the sky. The mosquito passed overhead, driving itself directly into the blade. Its flesh parted and it buzzed angrily, facing Theo in a movement that was half-turn, half-spasm. It struck out with its legs and Theo pushed himself between them, his own legs a flurry of motion in the tall prairie grass.

"Die, you bastard!" He cried out, turning his body, his blade following in a wide horizontal arc. He struck the eyes again, and the beast died.

Theo breathed heavily. "I don't know how much longer I can keep this up," he said. To his relief, the ranks of the creatures were dwindling thanks to the combined efforts of the large group of super-powered humans. Swordsmen, mages, gunslingers, fighters of any kind, all faced off against their strange enemies. There was even a dragon in the mix, Theo saw, though it seemed to be on their side. Dragon tamer? Badass.

The Sundancer looked at the sky. I wonder how long the night will last. I feel less than helpful right now.

[Sagittarius]

As the shadows enveloped him like a great comet, growing like a black flame, Gaius saw a ring of runes spin above the mosquito. Shortly after, a bright bolt cracked down onto the insect, visibly weakening it as petals danced around it. Gaius let out a surprised "Eh?!", seeing his foe suddenly weakened so much, but didn't stop moving. As if under heavy gravity, the giant mosquito couldn't raise the long proboscis to defend itself when Gaius leaped at it, his shield ready to smash into it. "Let's see what this can do... Shield Bash!"

Swinging his arm forward, the shadows surrounding Gaius transferred and condensed into the shield, no longer simply trailing behind, but bubbling around it like hot tar. There was a slight delay from when he hit the body of the bug to the moment that its back blew out, its guts and blood forced out by spreading shadows. The gruesome scene left Gaius in both awe and horror.

That's a bit... harsh. he thought to himself, his senses somewhat dull from what just happened. This really isn't a game, is it? Even though he recognized how dangerous their situation really was, he didn't want to think about it too much and quickly cleared his mind of those grim thoughts by looking to see if the others needed help. Though they really didn't, Gaius noticed that Theo didn't seem do be using anything other than his sword. "A Sundancer, huh... so he can't do much at night?" Gaius said, comparing Theo's abilities to his. Since their strengths could help balance out each other's weaknesses, he thought that, maybe, it'd be a good idea for them to team up when the fighting settled down.

[Cello]

Kieran Croft

Amidst the battle that was taking place under the moonlit night, Kieran had also been doing his best to help out against the horde of overgrown bugs. Kieran's class wasn't designed for high damage, so the time it took him to deal with one mosquito was quite significant in comparison to his allies. However, a perk of being a Samurai was that the young boy was very resilient. When the creature swung one of its numerous legs at him, Kieran skillfully lifted his blade with two hands and firmly kept his footing. He met the creatures attack with the flat part of the wooden sword, effectively parrying the creature and only receiving a slight shock from the impact. With little time to lose, Kieran took a solid step forward and rose his blade above him. With a fluid motion, he brought the weapon down onto the head of the mosquito with all his strength behind the attack. With a sickening crunch, the bluntness of the wooden blade cracked open the creatures head. The creature stood there for a moment, shocked, before collapsing before the young Samurai. Placing the sword over his shoulder with a look of disgust, Kieran turned his head away from the gruesome scene before he threw up.

Unfortunately, Gaius' encounter with his own mosquito was just as messy. The Samurai gave an approving nod to the Shadow Vanguard, recognising a job well done. There were only a few more left, including one that was being dealt with by a large, serpentine dragon. The creature was quite shocking to see, but Kieran got the impression that it was here to help as it violently ripped apart the mosquito that was unfortunate enough to have been in its way. Kieran couldn't catch a break. Everywhere he looked was splattered with bug juice. He approached Gaius, giving him a friendly pat on the back with his spare hand.
"Looks like you really laid into it. I'd say we're all naturals at this!" Kieran gave him a smirk, trying to hide his anxiousness about what other horrifying creatures they would encounter on their journey.

Hatori Kokonoe, Jura and Veronica Winchester

Hatori stood next to Veronica, frantically inspecting her for any injuries. Veronica normally would be quite annoyed at someone being so protective over her, but seeing as he'd just saved her life she figured that it was the least she could do. Yet this wouldn't stop her from trying to talk him down.
"You really needn't worry for me. I'm just a little shocked." She was trying to be as polite about it as possible, but this was the third time she'd asked him to stop and she feared that she could only be restrained for so long. Hatori seemed to get the message this time, taking a step back from Veronica and sighing with relief.
"Alright then. If you're all good, I'm going to try and help out some more." He gave her a quick nod before running off across the dark field to meet with Jura, who was still playing around with the poor mosquito he'd chosen as his victim.
"Jura! Finish it off and let's go!" The dragon raised it's head at Hatori's words, releasing a low grumble of disappointment before snapping his jaw onto the mosquito's head. It writhed under his grip for a moment, and then was still. Jura slithered over the corpse of the mosquito, quickly rushing across the ground in what seemed to be a head on collision towards the sprinting body of Hatori. Yet before they could collide, Hatori kicked himself off of the ground in a fashion that seemed almost natural to him, despite rarely attempting such a thing. As he began to descend back to the ground, the sea green body of his companion flickered beneath him to catch the Dragon Rider.

Riding Jura was the most exhilarating experience that Hatori had ever experienced, and this was only on the ground. The young boy giggled in delight at the mere thought of riding Jura when he could fly. He braced himself as Jura rushed across the field to greet the group that seemed to be just about done dealing with their wave of mosquitoes. Jura came to an abrupt stop, lowering his head to the ground so Hatori could visibly seen on top of his partner.
"'Sup! I'm late, but here to help!" The young boy slid down the back of Jura, stumbling as he reached the bottom and tumbling onto the ground with a grunt. Jura released a low growl in amusement, flicking his tail gently underneath Hatori's stomach to help him stand upright. The boy rubbed the back of his head awkwardly, smiling. "Thanks, Jura. Anyway!" He turned to face the group with his arms folded. "I'm Hatori! This big guy here is Jura." He rubbed the side of Jura's belly playfully, resulting in a low purring sound coming from the creature.

[Jeep Wrangler]

Marcus began to depart from the place he was brought to, without any further words. He wanted to get along with what he had been made to do. If anything, the reason he had been brought to this place might've been from his summoning of anything. He was a true Atheist, no doubt, but that didn't stop him from begging for something to rescue him from the dismal life that crumbled back on Earth. Marcus wouldn't want to talk about it at all, nor would he ever wish to let anyone find out about what had happened to him before the Orb had discovered him, but he knew that it was just a matter of time before 'Show and Tell your Life' comes around and Fucks him from behind. Lovely thought, isn't it?

"I know how you feel, Master Krean, though you must not focus on that. It is of your duty to set aside all previous lifestyles and prepare for what is ahead!" The voice was somewhat calming for once. It wasn't the pedantic, sarcastic or humorous tone that Marcus had found himself getting used and somewhat comfortable with anymore. It was as if it had a personality, rather than just one that relied on annoying him. It could feel what he felt in different ways, as if a soul of his own. A split personality of his own...It understood him like no other. Those who did, were not around that much longer than he wanted to.

"You think you could stop invading my mind for one minute?" He sighed, exiting the building. He knew that in life and what laid ahead was going to be tricky, and he was right as an Orb. He did have to set everything aside. The pitiful old Marcus was to be reborn now.

He stepped outside, finding himself near a Hill or two. He didn't want to be involved in anyone else's shenanigans, so doing what he could do alone would be something that pleased him. He knew that the Orb would go against what he wanted to do, but it was his Rules...his methods for 'Saving the World'. As the two began to keep travelling, the thoughts popped into his mind, and the silence was kept. Marcus wanted to reach a high place, where he belonged. It was exactly where he was found, high up on the ledge...He sighed deeply as he trudged along the strange dirt substance. What was he to do from now on? What was he supposed to do that could make a difference. He was a very-very self-conscious person with very little self-esteem. Being called up to this was rather strange to him, and anxiety was slightly kicking in. Someone to calm him would be nice, and now he was imagining what life'd be like if he stayed and worked into some sort of 'Group'...but if there was someone wanting to Party with him, then they'd have to come find him...

"Rather pretty sight, I must say..." The Orb spoke as they moved closer to the peak of the hill.

"I second that opinion..."

"Y'know...I do have one task for you...To get used to your new Form, you should consider Picking off targets from a distance from here..." Marcus thought about what he was saying.

"You mean...Grinding?"

"N-Not necessarily, just...Go shoot something already! You need to discover things..."

"Things?"

"Look..." The Orb made a sighing sound, as if it were a person. "I know you may still seem confused, but there is some stuff I should inform you of upon your new Infiltrator Entity. You are now what you wished to be. When I came Just in time you wanted to have the abilities you spoke of. I granted those, as you may have noticed from your appearance and Armory on your personnel...but I cannot tell you everything that is going on. I'm not an Upper-Grade Guardian Orb...I don't know as much as the main threat, I literally am doing what directed before-hand. Now come on...get up and shoot something! If I am correct there is a Brofinn Herd below..." Brofinn? These words and descriptions made of little sense. What exactly was Marcus doing here? Still, he was curious to know what this Herd is.

"Brofinn?" He asked curiously, monotone in his whisp-of-a-voice.

"You have a creature of hair and horns on plains in the Earthlands?" Marcus nodded, instantly thinking of Ox, Buffalo or Bison. "Think of one of those, but...slightly smaller and a lot more aggressive...Just go shoot one of those for target practise, y'know..." This all seemed, to Marcus, a fake reality. He nodded to think of what he could do...

Within 15 minutes he found himself with a bag on the floor, taking a knee on the dusty peak of the Hill. In the distance, he spied what was described. Tiny-Buffalo type creatures scurrying around like nobody's business. Well now, it was officially claimed as his own Business. Marcus was quite relieved actually, that he managed to start on the more passive of what was described. What he had heard from other Orbs is that bugs and other terrifying monsters lurked here, wanting to kill him. If he had gotten used to firing a Rifle, using a Close-Quarters Crossbow, then he'd at least have some experience and preparation. If anything, he wasn't even prepared for this. What if he messed up completely and proved to be a waste of the English-Orb's life? It was all crowding his mind so fast. Marcus then squinted, wanting to see if he could make any clearer vision than just a blur in the distance.

"C-can...I get a closer look?"

"Apart from your Optic, I don't imagine you can at this moment in time. You'd need the Equipment of a Handy Binocular Kit mixed with the Skill of Phantom Vision, a mental view that reveals the position of foes and other entities for a 2500m radius, huge energy waster though...However, you'll need to be a pro...right now you aren't. That'll take time and effort...which is why Teamwork will be of th-"

"If I am to be put in a team, then let them come to me. You should know that I am not great at approach..." He lay down. From his back, Marcus lifted the compacted steel tool from his back. As soon as it was clear, the weapon folded out into the Rifle. It looked slick, threatening from all angles. It was the perfect description of fear from a distance, and it was about to prove itself worthy of being called a Death Tool. Marcus had found a comfortable position, and looked at the distance. "Uhhh...Orby-thing...Distance approximately?"

"700 Metres? Seems about right?" Marcus pointed upwards slightly, aligning it with the pearl-black markings on the interior of the Optic. It had a 8x Magnification, from what it seemed. That is quite bad for Rifles made for what he wants to encounter, but it is a good start. Nothing would be better than upgrading it to higher Magnification and Bullet Velocity..."Stop trailing in your thoughts, Master Krean! Fire!" He jumped slightly, taking a deep breath and edging his finger onto the Trigger. He held his breath, squeezed the trigger ever-so slightly. This was to prepare for the shot...Marcus then pressed down, unleashing the shot of the weapon. The Tracer revealed the projectile twisting through the air, until it smacked right onto...the floor...He had missed!

"FUCKING SHIT!" He said, slamming his head into the soft Moon-Dirt...or whatever he was to call it.

"Master Krean! Not everyone makes the first jump...I mean Shot...Yes...Shot..."

It took Marcus another 3 minutes to come to his senses. He had already felt like a failure at not being able to hit a sitting-Buffalo thing...Just...embarrassing. If he had gotten with the others, he'd be redder than a Blood-Moon from the Sahara Desert perspective.

Finally, he got back into position. Repeating the steps he went through this time, he took the ever-so little time to adjust where he was looking, only to see the Brofinn were moving now, as they had been startled by both his missed shot and shouting. He tensed up. How am I going to hit something like this? He knew that the Orb was listening in. He could sense the smart-arse comment coming, though being wrong. Without any thought, he lined up and pressed the trigger again. This time, surprising results came. The Projectile spun through the air, tearing through gas and wind before it placed itself deep into the side of a Brofinn, bringing it down in one heavy thud...

"AHA, YOU EARTH FUCK! LOOK WHAT YOU DID...I...I mean...Congratulations...H...Heh heh..."

[Cuccoruler]

Lance was a bit put off by Marcus. If the guy didn't want to be part of a group then there was no point in inviting him. People like Marcus deserved to be alone if they were just going to be mean to others. Though most likely the poor guy would eventually die anyways due to him being a long range fighter. Probably end up getting killed by a bug bear or something too.
@LetMeDoStuff

Rosa jumped back away from a mosquito as it lunged at her. She wasn't quite fast enough though and it hit her arm. Rosa slid back holding her arm. "Right then, let's try this out." Rosa said as she held her bat out infront of her and closed her eyes. A red aura could be seen emanating from her. She opened her eyes which were now glowing a deep red. "BERSERKER MODE!" Rosa screamed out. She gave a toothy twisted smile at a mosquito. She was vulnerable in the way of defense but that wouldn't stop her, she would keep fighting until she couldn't move anymore. Rosa rushed at the mosquito her grin getting bigger as she smashed it's head in. She could do a lot of damage, with her attacks now, though this was dangerous.

Another moquito came at Rosa from behind stabbing her leg. This was where something strange happened, instead of feeling pain she felt pleasure. "Oh that feels so good." Rosa said with her twisted smile before looking over at the mosquito. She smashed it's body to the side making it release it's hold on her leg. She then followed it attacking it's body next, then it's head again smashing it in. "Ohhhh this feeling is awesome." Rosa said as she looked down at her leg as it bled. "Who's next!?!?" Rosa yelled looking around for more mosquitoes, but finding none, she was still in berserker mode which would stop soon but for now she was feeling pain as pleasure.

Lance just watched as his friend was going crazy with her new form. "That is scary, and I am not going to approach her like this." Lance said as he finished off his last mosquito. This was a side of Rosa he had never seen before and it was frightening.

Before long Rosa still felt the blood thirst, she couldn't hold it in anymore and ran at what seemed to be a boy with a dragon. She saw the dragon as another enemy to fight. "Fight me!" Rosa yelled as she rushed at the creature breathing heavily. She wanted to feel more of this pleasure, she was rewarded even more with pleasure when she killed an enemy.
@Leslie Hall

[Jeep Wrangler]

Marcus sat eating the meat, chewing away as his orb circled around his head. The Brofinn meat was heated and tender, as the insides for the beast were of a defensive heat mechanism for toothed predators, acting as a sort of Martyrdom weapon. It would usually scold the insides of the predator, causing pain and damage to the gums, eventually fucking up their ability to eat. It was a painful and agonising experience, but the Orb and Marcus played it smart and waited for ten minutes, allowing the painful aspect to it to cool down and allow further pleasure for eating. It then struck his mind. It was a strange question, but it had to be asked.

"So...doooo...you have a name or something? Like...I can't call you 'Orb' all the time can I?" There was a pause as the Orb travelled into a deep Muse. He was puzzled on what to be called. "Well?"

"Marcus is already taken...give me a minute..." For the first time since It dawned, he had grown a grin onto his face. Now becoming fond of the Orb, he found himself finding that he had a friend for once. "Either Marx, orrrrrrrrr...Menaphis..."

"Menaphis it is...I don't want to be confused between one another..."

"We pretty much are the same person/orb...thing...uhh..." This sentence made Marcus stop digesting his ever-so tasteful meal. He raised an eyebrow and tilted his hat-rim upwards to face him.

"What...what do you mean by that?" Once again, another Deep-Sigh like noise came from the light-energy.

"Think about it, Marcus. We are two different, completely different things. You being a solid, me being light...you being a human, me being an Orb...but what is most Iconic, Marcus, is that we are completely different. You need to know that. Our 'Personalities' are far from similar. Think of it as a Puzzle piece. Put the shy and saddened jigsaw piece with the confident and energetic one...you get the average and perfect lifeform. You could consider me as your 'Other Self'." There was a deafening silence that spread among the land, minus the annoying struggles of fighting downhill where the other Moon-Raiders were busy. He thought deeply, Marcus did. The noises were low, and his voice was too.

"Does...this come with other Orbs?" He quizzed, curiously.

"Not likely, my dear friend. Us Guardian Orbs are all different in Personality, like Human-lifeforms, as well as Intellect, Grade of power, and sometimes, even the connection to their Subject. My connection is strong, and I grant that you keep this in mind. We are like dependent variables. One cannot survive without the other...Well I could...technically I can't die in such a way you fleshy-things do." Marcus kept this in his head as he took more and more bites from the Brofinn meat, before it was completely-empty of existence. This was all so challenging to his mental capacity. So what he was being told is that each Guardian Orb serves some slight different purpose than the rest. His orb, or Menaphis as he should now be referred to as, was something that would act as the calming Buddy he needed all his life. Ever-since what was now known to him as his 'Pre-Life's Extinguishment', Marcus needed the extra person who understood him in the most identical way...Menaphis was his key to existence.

Marcus stood up, dusting his armor down and putting the rifle onto his back, it folding away neatly to compact space, and weight slightly. He walked over to Menaphis, hanging his head low and took of his armored stenson. Without anymore words, he found himself standing right beside the Light. He knew it wouldn't feel anything, but he wrapped his arms around the rough area of the light, even though they would never touch. It looked ridiculous, but to Marcus, it was a gratitude. He felt his eyes water slightly and his face began to become cold.

"Uhhhhm...Marcus?"

"I'm...sorry...Just...where have you been all my life?"

"Uhhhh...you aren't going to propose, are you?" Marcus took a deep breath and leapt off.

"N-no! Sorry...just...you being here to talk to...after...the...Thing...Yeah...sorry...It just...had to happen...thanks though..."

"Hey...I'm not the one who was found on th-" Marcus looked to the group fighting below.

"Maybe...we...we could use their help?"

[Tancuras]

Theo was waiting, saving his strength for more insects, but nothing came. They seemed to be dispersing around him. As he looked around, he realized that they were all dispersing, all buzzing away in random directions. His other companions finished off some stragglers, and then the plains became oppressively quiet, a steady hum of silence in his ears.

Someone was shouting nearby, and the Sundancer turned to see the dragon, cautiously fending off a girl with a club. Shit, he thought. I guess someone doesn't trust it.

Something in his peripheral vision caused him to turn his head, even as he advanced toward the conflict. An orange glow rose from the horizon, burning the stars away, adding a new level of color to the gradient on the grass. Theo held a hand up, feeling the warmth of the sunrise, waiting in anticipation for his powers as a Sundancer to finally activate. It was strange, they way the sun didn't paint the sky blue. It remained a black void, though Theo figured the atmosphere would be different here, if they really were on the moon, in a different world.

Even as the orange glow reached him, Theo didn't feel any different. "Hey," he said to his orb. "Are my abilities active yet?"

"Theo," the orb said, her voice alarmingly fervent. "That's not the sun!"

He saw it, then, a streak of fire, smoldering in the grass as it flew towards the group, impossibly fast. It was a blur of flame accompanied by rhythmic drumming, the sound of hooves like a rapidly beating heart. The orange glow reflected on Theo's breastplate, then, and he could do nothing as the beast was upon him.

Whatever it was, it hit him like a truck that was two stories tall. The massive, burning frame collided with him, and Theo's world spun. He was in the air, watching the moons dance around him, and even then feeling the lick of flame on his cheeks, singeing his hair and clothes. When he finally hit the ground, everything went dark for a moment, and he struggled desperately to breathe.

Somehow, he knew his HP had been effectively cut in half, a massive blow that his body would not be able to weather again. His sight was a blur, tears stinging his eyes. He tried twice to get his feet under him before settling on his knees, holding his shoulder, gasping for air. He had seldom felt anything like it before, and suddenly any will to fight had left him.

Finally catching his breath, he looked up. The beast stood before the group, regarding them with burning eyes.

!WARNING!

YȪHEVONEN - DEMON HORSE OF THE PLAINS

Suddenly it reared, an unnatural scream piercing the night. Flames burst from its body, covering it like armor. Theo stood. His sword had somehow managed to stay in his hand, and he gripped it tight. His mind was numb. He did not know why he was fighting, or how to kill the thing that had nearly killed him, but he advanced towards it anyway.

The demon slammed its hooves down then charged again, directly into the crowd of warriors.

[sMoKe]

Saerena holstered her pistols as the final insect beast went down. I could get used to this she thought as she glanced among her companions to assess their condition. They were alive all, and not a single one badly injured, except perhaps a figure in the distance being pestered by the now enraged Rosa. Whether the thing was friend or foe, Saerena could not say.

She looked at the horizon then to notice that the mosquitos had in fact not been vanquished, but were retreating. A stroke of good fortune, or... Saerena had little time to think before she was interrupted by a bright light shining in the distance. At first look it appeared to be a star, but the way its brightness traveled, quickly, too fast for a rising sun, implied otherwise. Maybe luck was too much to ask for. Not that Saerena was disappointed; she was content to battle indefinitely. Obviously her stamina had increased since making the trip, or maybe it was just the effects of lesser gravity. Whatever the cause was, Saerena again drew and nodded hard to drop her goggles over her eyes. Just as she began to call out to warn the others, it was on top of them. She barely had time to prepare before the miniature sun came barreling towards them, directly into the man whom she had earlier assisted.

Saerena watched as he cartwheeled through the air and came back down painfully to the ground. She saw him get up, trying to shake off the blow, only somewhat successfully. Is he ok? Saerena asked her orb, now aware of its ability to speak telepathically. Instead of an answer, the HUD built in to her goggles projected a number above his person. 119/239. As she looked around, she noticed numbers appearing over the others' heads as well. Above the head of the creature, the numbers continually changed until finally reading 'unknown'. Knowing he could not take another hit, Saerena sprinted to the man's side as he started advancing. "No need to prove yourself. Take a second to heal. Leave it to us." she said as she leveled both side arms at what she now identified as an incredibly muscular, flaming horse. She watched as its head lowered and started rushing forward again, this time in her direction.

"Everyone, I have an idea! Its fast, but it can't use its speed on all of us at once. Circle it and attack from all sides. If it charges again, dodge and reform the circle. If anyone can heal, be ready to. This is a powerful beast." As she finished laying out her battle plan, the flaming stallion was upon her, head lowered and charging. Right before impact, Saerena jumped to the side, avoiding the beast while aiming. As she slid sideways away, Saerena fired a fast succession of bullets into the horse's flank, hoping that they would hurt or, at least, piss it off. As she jumped upright beside the man in white she said "Never got your name. I'm Saerena."

[Jeep Wrangler]

Marcus was still on the hill when he saw it come crashing down onto the surface, spreading heat and fire around itself. It took him by surprise, making the ground on the half-way downhill shudder, causing him to lose balance. The metallic armor clanged as he landed, him trying to regain his footing to inspect the situation. By the time he had already found himself to his feet, there was combat taking place. Do these people ever get a chance to rest? He looked to Menaphis. There was a deep stare as the two made eye-to-light contact. The glimmer acted as if he were being stared back, but really it was impossible to deduct.

"Should...should I help them?" Marcus said, curious to whether he could put his own abilities to some use. In the name of others, he could actually do some good. That was something Marcus hadn't done in a while, do something for other people around him. Menaphis glimmered at him, slaying a ray of light upon his comrade. There was a very quick silence, much like those when a quick-time thought needed to be processed. Obviously he knew it was his own choice, but Menaphis was said to act differently than other Orbs, much like how Human society worked back on Earth. Menaphis was to be his guidance, or Guardian Orb as the real entity's name suggested. To bring him fortune and lessons was his goal. Being nothing more than a Portable-Backpack was all important to Menaphis, as if he cared about his role more than the other Orbs. When he had been travelling down the hill to get into a position, the two talked to one another about how Orbs worked, and how they acted. Menaphis was depicted as a slight 'Rebel', coming up with his own rules and roles to fit his and his warrior's needs. He also told of the previous time he was to be settled for a Human of choice. Seeing as most Orbs were assigned to a Human that was chosen to lead the charges of good, Menaphis was very infamous among the other Orbs for Choosing his own Human, obviously being Marcus Krean. There was no reason told for it, except that 'He felt Marcus was a better choice'. And as he has proved so far, he was becoming more correct as the timeline progressed. Menaphis was one of a kind, clearly. You could see it in His personality. And he had also told of stories of how him and the other Guardian Orbs were never going to be the best-est of friends.

"Marcus, you have the upper-hand...you have not been detected, and possess unique abilities to assist you in your profession, Long-Range engagements. Though obviously yo-" A large explosion of fire and heat interrupted what he was explaining. "Obviously, before being ever-so-rudely cut off, you don't have to yell your ability names like They do. Whispering should do it..." A faint chuckle came from the Orb as Marcus nodded, beginning to settle himself down into a prone position, drawing his Rifle once more.

He watched it unfold mechanically once again, as if some sort of Sci-fi bullshit had just entered reality, which technically it did. Marcus began to think as he laid it in-front of himself. Skills...skills...skills. He had selected them back on Earth, and it was true, they were very unique in everyway. No one else could've had the different mind that Marcus Krean had.

'What skills did I embark on selecting? It was Compromise...and there was...SILENCE...what else....what else...' He thought deeply in his mind, knowing that Menaphis was waiting in extreme anticipation for him to discover it. 'I KNOW! FUCKING..Uhh...That thing...ELEMENT SHOT!' Marcus lifted up the rifle so the Stock's Rear-plate was dug into his shoulder and the Optical Magnification was lined up with his right eye. He tightly enclosed his left eye to ensure he remained complete. He knew that his presence was anonymous, from both his Foe and Allies. This would ensure that he had the ultimate advantage in his power. Marcus remained laid down on the flat-level ground located on the middle midst of the Hill. It was only a matter of lining up the shot.

The beast, was huge, darting around from left to right. It looked like a Horse; in fact it was some sort of Stalion-like monster...With hooves from hell, and a snout that could make the bravest of Military Personnel shudder. A thud came from every Clop and introduced a flaming presence that burned and scorched any unfortunate object unlucky enough to be locked within its range. The Grass became charred and the air became more heated than a Sauna, that is if you got too close. Marcus could feel the heat moving towards him, perhaps not as hot as those experiencing it Hand-to-hand combat range might've been feeling. The Mane swashed around like trees in a tornado, leaving flickers of small flames and sparks that seeped off of the tips of each hair. The burning sensation of the eyes gave Marcus a shiver. Hundreds of hellish and demonic characteristics all merged into one being was literally within 200 metres of his own location.

Marcus chose to ignore everything, as what mattered now was that if he could make the shot, he'd have given everyone down there an advantage to strike. There was the thought of how he planned the Rifle's element shot...how he wanted it to effect those. He began to hold his breath, as he had done when sniping the Brofinn, and squeezed gently on the trigger, not igniting the 'fuse'. He whispered to himself as he managed to find a locked position on the pelt and right flank of the stallion. The words were quiet, but were about to turn the tide of this engagement dramatically for those fighting for the same unknown cause.

"Element Shot..." He whispered into the lunar wind. It was at that moment that he felt a great surge in power, as if he were engulfed in strength and focus. The world seemed to glow around him as his eyes grew into an electric-blue shade. His skin let out a faint glow on the inside, slightly off from the same colouring as his eye-sockets. He felt the gun be engulfed in the man's power as well, making him feel more accurate, more interlinked with his weapon. The gun's markings shone dimly, as shining brightly would be ridiculous for someone trained in the arts of stealth and ranged encounters, as the barrel began to make its work. The three high-calibre projectiles within the magazine began to whir up with energy and tension. The electricity flowed into them, surging them into one. The feeling of the skill was great, enticing and addicting. He tensed up, ready for the upcoming kickback that the rifle was about to shove into the handler. Marcus narrowed his only open eye more as he pulled the trigger...

Within seconds, a beam of electricity shot across the sky. It was unexpected for everyone, both warriors and the beast, as he had not been noted of his presence. The shot spiraled through the wind, cutting edges into every known particle as it found itself hurtling straight towards the target. The beam could be heard fizzling through the realm. The eyes pried on it as it slammed into the right flank, as intended, and caused a electrifying [Get-it?] sensation in the beast. The Hell's Stallion found itself collapsing on the floor for a second for two.

"Good shot...Target is stunned for about 10 seconds..."

"In that case, then we should take everything to our advantage!" He waited for a slow second, then began to unload the normal bullets one by one into the beast, as it soon began to find itself getting back up...

[Tancuras]

Theo heard a woman's voice somewhere, but it was distant. It was a few moments before he had registered what she said.

"No need to prove yourself. Take a second to heal. Leave it to us."

The Sundancer turned his head in time to hear the girl, a gunslinger, shout commands to bring the group together around the flaming horse. The beast charged, breaking into a streak of light in an instant, giving hardly any time to react. Theo dashed away, easily clearing the charge, but their foe's attention was locked on to the shouting girl. Theo's heart lunged at the horse's impending impact into the gunslinger, the movie of her demise playing out in his head, how it would shatter ever bone in her body, and he almost cried out for her. But she deftly spun to the side at the last minute, riddling the monster with bullets as it passed.

"Never got your name," the gunslinger girl said, not missing a beat. She was completely in her element. "I'm Saerena."

Something bloomed in the back of Theo's head, a spike of recognition at her name. Something from another life. Something that didn't matter anymore.

"Call me Theo," the Sundancer said. He smiled, figuring he should try a little harder. There was no time to rest when everyone else was trying so hard. "You look really cool, you know-"

A lightning bolt silently cut the sky in half, a streak of blue like a comet. It came from the horizon, the air humming around it, bristling with energy. The bolt slammed headlong into the side of the horse, toppling it into the ground. The flames around it disappeared as it lay, struggling to roll onto its feet.

As the fire flickered out, the sudden heat wave dimmed. The gears in Theo's mind whirred away. What the hell was that? A stunning attack? Took the flame armor off. Who shot it? Doesn't matter. An ally. I have to get it while it's down.

The white-clad youth charged passed Saerena, robes billowing. He was a front-line fighter. The gunslinger could do best behind him while he fended the monster off. Remembering Saerena's words of instruction, he resolved to keep its attention by dancing around its flanks, keeping its dangerous charges away from his allies.

It was a fraction of a second and Theo was before the demon. He brought his hands beside him, blade bared to the wind, and spun. His momentum carried his blade across the nape of the horse's neck, parting its mane, but he barely put a scratch in its iron-like hide.

The horse flailed wildly. Twin horns, spires long enough to run a man through three times over, whistled through the air as they tried to find Theo's eyes. Theo weaved backward, hardly missing the attack, brought his blade up and struck the beast again to the same effect. They danced together, the horse throwing hooves, Theo stepping between them and cutting red threads in its fur.

Theo managed to step near the demon's underbelly. He reached back, a snarl on his face, preparing a thrust into its heart. As he plunged forward, everything went white. The fire blasted outward from the horse once again, an inferno that felt like it burned his eyes out. He rolled backward on the blackened plains, stopping on all fours, eyes squeezed shut and coughing smoke from his lungs in savage bouts.

HP: 78/239

He opened his eyes. They stung unmercifully, but at least he could see. His polished plate was blackened, and his robes were peppered with char. He looked up at the beast as it reared back once again, and as he did, he felt the relentless wave of heat emanating from its body, burning everything closeby.

"We have to stun it!" Theo shouted into the air, fighting back coughs. "We can't get close to it like this!"

[Sagittarius]

The swordsman, despite being quite pale from throwing up, patted Gaius's back while talking with a merry tone to him. Most of us, maybe, he thought, doubting that everyone would be completely unperturbed by what they were doing. Sure, their abilities would give them the ability to fight. However, they really didn't do anything to lessen the shock. Nonetheless, he simply smiled back to him and said, "Yep!"

Suddenly, he saw a yellowish-orange glow trace the plains around him and the others, who had finished up their fights. Surprised, Gaius thought, It can't be turning day so suddenly, can it? The timing was a bit cheesy, day breaking as soon as the baddies were defeated. Unfortunately, his orb agreed. "That's... not the sun." A blazing figure suddenly burst from the horizon, ramming past Theo with shocking speed and force. The beast was practically the antithesis of Gaius, wreathed in light and about as fast, if not faster, than himself.

Even after the bolt-like shot from the hills stunned it for a moment, by the time he built up enough momentum to deal any damage, the fire cloak reformed, stripping his stacks away and forcing Gaius to get back. Aside from ranged attacks, which would likely have trouble hitting something moving that fast, they really would have to stun the weird horse thing in order to hit it with anything else. Unable to do much, he almost felt disappointed with himself. "Y'know..." Gaius's orb said, floating by his head. "You still have that other skill... whatever it was called..."

"Other skill... Ah, right!" Gaius clapped his hands together, understanding what it was getting at. Pointing at his target while he did so, Gaius called out the name of his skill. "Night Walk!" Despite the thick flames surrounding its body, a shadow covered the beast's head like a blanket thrown over it. The skill would probably better being used to boost Gaius's speed, but he could still use it in other ways as well. Cutting off its vision was really the best thing he could do for now, anyways. Turning to his orb, Gaius said to it, "Despite being sorta air-headed, you actually seem to be pretty smart."
"Huh...?"
"... Nevermind."

[Cello]

The last thing Hatori expected to happen when he introduced himself was be attacked. So when a crazed woman with a bloodied baseball bat came rushing at the young boy, he was too shocked to move out of the way. Before she collided with him, a flicker of green scales flashed across both Hatori and Rosa's vision, Jura quickly moving his body forward to block the impending attack from hitting his rider. The impact sent a wave of pain through the dragon's body, which was also accompanied by a whimper. Thankfully, Jura's thick scales and size allowed him to brush the attack off easier than Hatori could have. Slithering around to face the enraged Rosa, Jura growled as a molten fire began to bubble inside his jaws. Noticing the dragons intent to roast the girl alive, Hatori quickly began pounding his fists on the side of the great creature.
"No! Bad Jura! Put the fire out! She probably just thought you were an enemy, is all!" At his riders words, the dragon reluctantly turned his head away from Rosa; yet he kept the fire alive in his mouth just as a precaution.

Rather than spit fire at the enraged woman, Jura settled for flickering his long, slender tail in an arcing motion towards Rosa. With the one motion, he pushed her a few feet away from Hatori and released a loud, rumbling roar at her. Saliva and fire dripped from his mouth, and even Hatori had to cover his ears at the sound. It was clearly a threatening roar, warning Rosa to keep her distance from the dragon's rider.
"Don't be so mean, Jura! You big bully." Hatori joked, throwing his entire body onto the side of his companion in a large hug. Jura rolled his body slightly, picking Hatori up from the ground and allowing him to position himself atop of his back. He rubbed the dragon behind the ears, giggling as the creature began to shake at the pleasant sensation. The young dragon rider stared down where Rosa stood, hoping she'd calmed down.
"Sorry about the big guy. Looks like he likes to play rough." Hatori was surprisingly cheerful towards her despite the fact that she tried to attack him not two second ago. Was it his easy going nature that made him so forgiving? Or perhaps he was just very naive.

Not to interrupt you. Hatori's orb spoke, catching the young boy's attention instantly.
"Woah! Oh, I'm so sorry! I've been ignoring you all this time." A wave of guilt washed over Hatori. He'd been so transfixed on Jura that he'd failed to acknowledge his other companion. The orb let out a small laugh, floated gently atop of the dragon's head.
You seem to be getting along quite well. However I must inform you of a pressing matter. Please turn to your right. Obliging the orbs demands, Hatori and Jura both shifted their position to face a ball of fire rising up across the horizon. It was a massive beast, and many of the others were already dealing with it. Stricken by fear, Hatori was doubtful that they could take out a creature of that power.

Meanwhile, Kieran and Victoria watched as various others began engaging the creature. Never missing out on the action, Kieran drew his blade and ran forward to meet his comrades. The display of power from the others was quite impressive. The skill and precision of the gunslinger and mysterious sniper, the quick nimbleness of Theo and the smart use of his abilities from Gaius. Kieran noticed that Theo had taken a few hits and was not in the best shape. Nodding with determination, he called out to the Sundancer.
"Just let me draw its attention, 'kay?" With that, he stepped directly in front of the monster with his blade in a defensive stance; held horizontally in front of him as if he were trying to block an attack.
This is the best way you can help right now. Your damage is quite pitiful compared to the others at the moment, but you're one of the most resilient members of the group currently; only outclassed by the young girl with the baseball bat. Keep its attention off of your allies. Kieran nodded in agreement, grinning as the creature thrashed around under the wave of shadows that had been sent to it. It shook its head towards Kieran, snarling with fury as the large skull slammed into his blade with enough forced to send Kieran tumbling over. But Kieran wouldn't be knocked away so easily; it was his job to keep it occupied on him. So he stood his ground, his heels sliding along the dirt and his body shaking from the impact. He could feel his blade splintering, its durability dropping slightly with every attack. Perhaps if the weapon weren't made of flimsy wood, it'd be more effective at blocking the creature. He took damage, but it wasn't as dramatic as the amount of punishment Theo was taking.
"Come on buddy, is that all you've got to dish out?" He yelled, riling up the creature that gazed upon him with killing intent from beneath the shadows that strung themselves around him. A warm light began to emanate from underneath, the creatures breathing growing heavier. He was trying to recreate the flame guard that had made him impossible to deal with before.

Veronica gasped as she noticed what the monster was doing as well. If the creature regained its armor then how were they to take it down?
Stop sitting there like a bump on a log girl. Use your spells! You can stop it from creating its armor! Her orb was practically yelling at her, which she didn't like one bit. Snapping, she turned to it and began to yell back.
"I can't stop it you idiot! It didn't work on the mosquito so what makes you think it will work on that!"
I didn't think you'd quit after one failed attempt. Pathetic girl! Riled up by her companions harsh criticism of her character, Veronica turned to face the beast as it was recharging its armor.
"You just watch you insufferable ball. I'm not pathetic!" Casting a magic circle in front of her, a purple mist began to seep from Veronica's body; cascading her in magic. "Silence!"

The power flew towards the creature, smacking it straight in the chest. The creature tried to wince in discomfort, but no sound escaped it's mouth. The flame armor that was forming fizzled. Kieran took notice of the opening, leaping up into the air and bringing his sword down upon the head of the massive horse with a cry of victory. The blunt force of his blade didn't deal much in the way of hurting the creature, but it did daze him momentarily.

[Cuccoruler]

Still in her crazed state of mind Rosa looked at the lizard, she wanted to smash it to pieces, that was until she saw the giant fire horse come in. Rosa's orb turned to the two who Rosa had just attacked. "I am sorry for that, she is not in the right state of mind right now, I'm afraid that Berserker mode is quite dangerous, she won't know what to stop fighting." The Orb explained as Rosa ran towards the monster. "I'm afraid that she has taken too much damage at this point, if she takes a few more hits she may die." The Orb added, acting like it was concerned, though it did nothing to stop Rosa.

Rosa continued in her crazed mind. She ran at the giant fire horse and leaped at it, her baseball glowed as she slammed it down on the creatures back hard. "HARD HITTER!" Rosa yelled as the creature's legs seemed to buckle. If it wasn't for that silence spell cast by the witch Rosa would have died. After the hit Rosa jumped back from the creature, finally the berserker mode had finished after that attack. Rosa's eyes went dull as she fell backwards, blood coming out of her mouth. This was the danger of being a berserker, they could fight like no other, but they didn't know when to stop, or when they were taking damage.

Lance meanwhile ran at the Flame horse from the other side. He seemed to be doing pretty well until one of the fire bolts hit his arm. He was knocked back but got back up and ran at the creature again. "Let's see how this works." Lance said as he used his spear to pole vault himself into the air. Once high enough he held his hand out infront of him. "BLUE BLAST!" Lance yelled out as she shot a blast of blue energy at the house hitting one of it's legs helping Rosa in knocking the creature down. Once he landed he took a deep breath, he knew that attack didn't do much damage, but it had a good amount of force behind it. Lance turned around later to see Rosa on the ground, his eyes wide with worry for his baseball coach. "Please tell me one of you have a healing ability." Lance said looking at the group.

[Jeep Wrangler]

Marcus paused for a minute, watching the fighting take place. He knew that one of his elemental shots, being on his Crossbow, weren't effective to a horse engulfed in flames. He would just have to keep hitting the beast with the Stunning shot, to give everyone a chance for survival. From what it seemed, many of those fighting didn't go for any defensive strategies as much as he anticipated, and their skills were mainly settled around close or mid-ranged manoeuvres of offence. It was typical to see that, from anyone wanted to ensure damage was inflicted at any cost. He waited for a while, allowing his bullets to regain their place in his magazine once again for the 8th time. His Elemental shot was at a recharge rate of two bullets, signalling it being able to be shot, with the expense of two rounds. This would, however, inflict a quicker and less effective shot if hit. He had to keep waiting. Once again, he began to shoot at the target.

"Uhm...Marcus...you better hurry up with that Elemental Shot..." The horse reared upwards as a shot made a piercing effect just between the eyes. It must've dug in at least a metre or half of the distance he wanted, but it wasn't enough to get anywhere near cracking the skull. The thickness of the fur, fire and skin made it a tough target to penetrate, and higher calibre rounds were needed to get through the target, something he'd have to work hard to maintain. The eyes were felt bearing down on Marcus as it began to shrug off some of the simple attacks the other warriors were inflicting upon the beast. Soon it became clear that he was in a shit tonne of trouble. "Uhm...Marcus?! HURRY UP!"

"One second...Literally...I just need to stun it..." He felt tension and fear split into him. He'd been fully spotted, and he was still waiting for the shot for fully regain its ability. "Come on...come on, dammit!" He looked down at the rifle, lining up a quick shot. He could either move, or take it. It was a tough call, but for the will of the team, it would've been worth it. Suddenly, he saw on his Head's up Display that it was indeed ready. He looked up and quickly fired, as soon as he took the shot, a flinch caught him as he saw it approach. As if time slowed down, a fireball sped towards him, targeting him directly. As soon as the elemental shot charged up, it fired only at The last second. The electric blow spun through the sky once more, tearing through the fire and splitting it into two. It wasn't enough though...both flames bared down either side of him, flinging him into the sky and throwing him down the hill. With every slam onto the ground, he felt himself slowly dying, getting weaker and weaker. It was that until he finally came to a stop at the bottom of the wrong side of the hill, the otherside of the action. He had literally been flung over the hill. Whether the elemental shot had hit and stunned the creature was beyond his comprehension...but he was far away from everyone...far far away...and he looked slowly to his right side......

HP: 36/184