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synflux2024-10-14 12:50 pm
synfluxmods) wrote in synflux2024-10-14 12:50 pm
Entry tags:
- !event,
- azur lane: kaga,
- chainsaw man: denji,
- delicious in dungeon: kabru,
- devil summoner: raidou kuzunoha,
- elfen lied: lucy/kaede,
- ennead: set,
- fate/grand order: ereshkigal,
- fate/grand order: okada izou,
- fate/grand order: tezcatlipoca,
- final fantasy 7: kadaj,
- godzilla: gigan,
- honkai star rail: aventurine,
- honkai star rail: dan heng,
- honkai star rail: dr. ratio,
- honkai star rail: march 7th,
- in stars and time: siffrin,
- jujutsu kaisen: choso,
- jujutsu kaisen: kento nanami,
- jujutsu kaisen: satoru gojo,
- jujutsu kaisen: suguru geto,
- jujutsu kaisen: yuji itadori,
- legendary monsterverse: godzilla,
- library of ruina: gebura,
- limbus company: ishmael,
- limbus company: rodion,
- limbus company: vergilius,
- lobotomy corporation: yesod,
- mobile suit gundam seed: dearka elthman,
- mobile suit gundam seed: lacus clyne,
- mobile suit gundam seed: shinn asuka,
- mobile suit gundam seed: yzak jule,
- my hero academia: katsuki bakugo,
- original character: lilias hollow,
- pacific rim: raleigh becket,
- persona 5: akira kurusu,
- spy x family: yor briar,
- touken ranbu: tsurumaru kuninaga,
- trigun stampede: nicholas d. wolfwood,
- trigun stampede: vash the stampede,
- witch from mercury: elan ceres (5),
- wuthering waves: rover,
- yu-gi-oh! gx: manjoume jun,
- zoids new century: jamie hemeros
KAIJU FIGHT #5
KAIJU FIGHT #5
▶ 001. LORD OF THE FOREST.
Throughout the days leading up until October 15th, the captives will be forced down to the dungeons for their “punishments” to be doled out. All of the punishments seem to be completed methodically, almost as if the followers of the Lord of the Forest had centuries of experience. While no explanation is given, it becomes clear that the sacrificial ritual has begun. While the Outsiders may not be privy to what this entails, there is one rule that will be have made clear to them: once the ritual begins, it can no longer be stopped. However, there is still a sliver of hope. On the morning of the 15th, a small message will have been pushed out by LILITH. While they haven't completely reestablished their connection to the network, they are able to get something out.
Now that the sacrifices have all but been made, it is time for the Lord of the Forest to be summoned.
All captives who have been forcefully dragged, or psychologically drawn to the dungeons, will find themselves face-to-face with the Lord of the Forest, also known by their title of PRICOLICI. The creature is a bit difficult to make out due to its ability to shape-shift: at times mimicking a human wearing some sort mask in the form of a wolf’s skull, and at others, taking on a form of a monstrous wolf-like creature that awaits all Outsiders— those presently within the dungeon, and those that exist outside of it, ready to be lured in.
Or that should be the case, but The Lord of the Forest appears to be a kaiju unlike all others. While it is summoned for a brief period in which the Outsiders bear witness to its true form, it seems to disperse back into the rift soon afterwards, much like savoring each of its sacrifices in a temporary state of hibernation.
(Note: Details of the specific events that happened leading up until this point can be accessed on the kidnapped log. Please be advised that there are heavy trigger warnings for these topics.)
█ █ █ MONSTER DEBRIEF SHEETIt is an incredibly sparse message. It seems to be working with any information the ocular implants were able to detect in that second, and the information gets fed back in the form of a distorted debrief sheet. However, it does act as a sign that LILITH is still actively working on gaining access to their communication lines once more, and are tirelessly working to send help. With this sudden jolt of a message, they will feel an extremely heavy disturbance composed entirely of rift energy—it appears that whatever kaiju is dwelling here is able to effectively work with the rift in order to negate abilities. But perhaps the clues all strung together have already painted a similar picture as to what is to come, and to what to continue to expect.
NAME:
HEIGHT: Ư̴͚͈̓͊̅͐́̇͛̂͌̏͠Ņ̷̧͕̣̦͉̟̣̽̽̌̓̈́͒̈́́̔̊̚͜͝K̷̗͖̜̟̮̬̜̳̍̈́̽͝Ǹ̵̠̳̯͕̠̻̖͔̹̖͑ͅỎ̶̖̲́̒͒͒͜W̵͈͍̻̞̮̻̏̍͠N̷̥͚̳̳͙̟͓̹̆̃
WEIGHT: Ư̴͚͈̓͊̅͐́̇͛̂͌̏͠Ņ̷̧͕̣̦͉̟̣̽̽̌̓̈́͒̈́́̔̊̚͜͝K̷̗͖̜̟̮̬̜̳̍̈́̽͝Ǹ̵̠̳̯͕̠̻̖͔̹̖͑ͅỎ̶̖̲́̒͒͒͜W̵͈͍̻̞̮̻̏̍͠N̷̥͚̳̳͙̟͓̹̆̃
CLASS: Ư̴͚͈̓͊̅͐́̇͛̂͌̏͠Ņ̷̧͕̣̦͉̟̣̽̽̌̓̈́͒̈́́̔̊̚͜͝K̷̗͖̜̟̮̬̜̳̍̈́̽͝Ǹ̵̠̳̯͕̠̻̖͔̹̖͑ͅỎ̶̖̲́̒͒͒͜W̵͈͍̻̞̮̻̏̍͠N̷̥͚̳̳͙̟͓̹̆̃
LOCATION: BRAȘOV, TRANSYLVANIA.
ABILITIES: Ư̴͚͈̓͊̅͐́̇͛̂͌̏͠Ņ̷̧͕̣̦͉̟̣̽̽̌̓̈́͒̈́́̔̊̚͜͝K̷̗͖̜̟̮̬̜̳̍̈́̽͝Ǹ̵̠̳̯͕̠̻̖͔̹̖͑ͅỎ̶̖̲́̒͒͒͜W̵͈͍̻̞̮̻̏̍͠N̷̥͚̳̳͙̟͓̹̆̃
WEAKNESSES: SUNLIGHT, HOLǸ̵̠̳̯͕̠̻̖͔̹̖͑ͅỎ̶̖̲́̒͒͒͜W̵͈͍̻̞̮̻̏̍͠N̷̥͚̳̳͙̟͓̹̆̃Y REǸ̵̠̳̯͕̠̻̖͔̹̖͑ͅỎ̶̖̲́̒͒͒͜W̵͈͍̻̞̮̻̏̍͠N̷̥͚̳̳͙̟͓̹̆̃S, GK̷̗͖̜̟̮̬̜̳̍̈́̽͝Ǹ̵̠̳̯͕̠̻̖͔̹̖͑ͅỎ̶̖̲́̒͒͒͜W̵͈͍̻̞̮̻̏̍͠N̷̥͚̳̳͙̟͓̆̃
EXTRA NOTES:
Now that the sacrifices have all but been made, it is time for the Lord of the Forest to be summoned.
All captives who have been forcefully dragged, or psychologically drawn to the dungeons, will find themselves face-to-face with the Lord of the Forest, also known by their title of PRICOLICI. The creature is a bit difficult to make out due to its ability to shape-shift: at times mimicking a human wearing some sort mask in the form of a wolf’s skull, and at others, taking on a form of a monstrous wolf-like creature that awaits all Outsiders— those presently within the dungeon, and those that exist outside of it, ready to be lured in.
Or that should be the case, but The Lord of the Forest appears to be a kaiju unlike all others. While it is summoned for a brief period in which the Outsiders bear witness to its true form, it seems to disperse back into the rift soon afterwards, much like savoring each of its sacrifices in a temporary state of hibernation.
(Note: Details of the specific events that happened leading up until this point can be accessed on the kidnapped log. Please be advised that there are heavy trigger warnings for these topics.)
▶ 002. FIND THE CAPTIVES.
Due to their brief communication and joint efforts following the network post, it becomes clear that all signs point to Bran Castle as the place where the captives are being held. This becomes ever more apparent as the fog gradually begins to lift, and the outline of the castle can finally be seen from the distance of the forest’s perimeter.
If there were still any doubts surrounding Bran Castle as a place of interest, many of the villagers will instantly form large groups in order to stop Outsiders from heading towards the castle. They will spare no effort to achieve this. What initially starts off as peaceful dissuasion and psychological tactics, such as using the children to cling to the Outsiders leg and crocodile tears… quickly escalates to outright fighting with pitchforks and other makeshift weapons from the farm. Additionally, Outsiders who have purchased the poison dagger from LILITH will find that the “safety” on it is released, and they can be utilized on the locals with no need for additional clearance. It looks like the network wasn't the only thing affected by the spotty connection.
In this skirmish, the Outsiders trying to make their way to the castle will find that a handful of these villagers aren’t your run-of-the-mill farmers. They’re stronger, faster, and the Outsiders will discover that they have incredibly sharp teeth. They are vampires! Or, an entity that seems close enough to the ones of legends. They will not only be attempting to fight Outsiders off, but will also resort to biting them. If an Outsider is bitten, their bodies will feel almost feverish, as if an incredibly slow-acting poison has entered their bloodstream. But, being bitten by a villager does not guarantee one to be turned. While it is possible, it is a much lower chance.
Once Outsiders do make it to the castle, they will find that there will be several more attendants from the castle waiting for them at the gates, all prepared to fight tooth and nail to prevent their entry. It’s clear the objective becomes to break past them and find the dungeons below the castle!
If there were still any doubts surrounding Bran Castle as a place of interest, many of the villagers will instantly form large groups in order to stop Outsiders from heading towards the castle. They will spare no effort to achieve this. What initially starts off as peaceful dissuasion and psychological tactics, such as using the children to cling to the Outsiders leg and crocodile tears… quickly escalates to outright fighting with pitchforks and other makeshift weapons from the farm. Additionally, Outsiders who have purchased the poison dagger from LILITH will find that the “safety” on it is released, and they can be utilized on the locals with no need for additional clearance. It looks like the network wasn't the only thing affected by the spotty connection.
In this skirmish, the Outsiders trying to make their way to the castle will find that a handful of these villagers aren’t your run-of-the-mill farmers. They’re stronger, faster, and the Outsiders will discover that they have incredibly sharp teeth. They are vampires! Or, an entity that seems close enough to the ones of legends. They will not only be attempting to fight Outsiders off, but will also resort to biting them. If an Outsider is bitten, their bodies will feel almost feverish, as if an incredibly slow-acting poison has entered their bloodstream. But, being bitten by a villager does not guarantee one to be turned. While it is possible, it is a much lower chance.
Once Outsiders do make it to the castle, they will find that there will be several more attendants from the castle waiting for them at the gates, all prepared to fight tooth and nail to prevent their entry. It’s clear the objective becomes to break past them and find the dungeons below the castle!
▶ 003. THE DUNGEON OF CASTLE BRAN.
Following the pathways of the castle to the dungeons below will not be easy. All the attendants present seem to have been waiting for them behind every nook and cranny of the castle. Outsiders will be met with their fervent attempts to stop them. It is a matter of life or death for the attendants and like the villagers, they seem to have no issue with throwing their own necks out in order to preserve the sanctity of their ritual.
Outsiders will also find various areas in which wolfsbane will be in bloom. Unlike typical wolfsbane these seem particular potent and will make the air taste bitter, and cause tingles, nausea, and hypotension if exposed to for too long. It appears even the attendants avoid them to a degree.
For those who make it to the dungeons, they will find that it is a lot bigger than it appears on the surface. A lot of its structure seems to lead deep underground, suggesting that it may even extend further out from the perimeter of the castle itself. There is a certain smell to the place that cannot be masked, years of sacrifices evident in every inch of its walls. There are over hundreds of cells, some still holding skeletal remains, alongside other ancient looking items: an old book, a worn out doll, a bloodied servant’s apron—they all appear to be pieces from a past that was long forgotten.
The Outsiders will not get to explore easily, however. As soon as they make their way past the threshold where the cells are all lined out, they will feel a chill up their spine. It's almost as if eyes are watching them in the dark, and they are. If they look up, they will realize there are hundreds of bats with glistening teeth that are all lining the ceiling, all lying in wait. They are minions of the Lord of the Forest, and their supersonic screams can stun and cause momentary deafness.
To make matters worse, it is not just their sharp teeth that hurt on impact, but they have a keen thirst for blood similar to the villagers. Being bitten by one will cause the Outsider to potentially begin to lose control of themselves and will have an insatiable thirst for blood, even at the expense of their fellow teammates. Additionally, those who are bitten will find themselves moderately more susceptible to psychic brain washing, and may cause them to momentarily join the enemies side.
Outsiders will also find various areas in which wolfsbane will be in bloom. Unlike typical wolfsbane these seem particular potent and will make the air taste bitter, and cause tingles, nausea, and hypotension if exposed to for too long. It appears even the attendants avoid them to a degree.
For those who make it to the dungeons, they will find that it is a lot bigger than it appears on the surface. A lot of its structure seems to lead deep underground, suggesting that it may even extend further out from the perimeter of the castle itself. There is a certain smell to the place that cannot be masked, years of sacrifices evident in every inch of its walls. There are over hundreds of cells, some still holding skeletal remains, alongside other ancient looking items: an old book, a worn out doll, a bloodied servant’s apron—they all appear to be pieces from a past that was long forgotten.
The Outsiders will not get to explore easily, however. As soon as they make their way past the threshold where the cells are all lined out, they will feel a chill up their spine. It's almost as if eyes are watching them in the dark, and they are. If they look up, they will realize there are hundreds of bats with glistening teeth that are all lining the ceiling, all lying in wait. They are minions of the Lord of the Forest, and their supersonic screams can stun and cause momentary deafness.
To make matters worse, it is not just their sharp teeth that hurt on impact, but they have a keen thirst for blood similar to the villagers. Being bitten by one will cause the Outsider to potentially begin to lose control of themselves and will have an insatiable thirst for blood, even at the expense of their fellow teammates. Additionally, those who are bitten will find themselves moderately more susceptible to psychic brain washing, and may cause them to momentarily join the enemies side.
▶ 004. THE FINAL RESCUE.
While the battle has already started within the village and the castle, suddenly the familiar ping of their oculars will alert them to the following message from Yamakawa—
With the connection reestablished, the main objective of the mission becomes one thing: RESCUE. For Outsiders who may have still been left at the village, or engaged within their own horrors, they are all advised to head to the dungeons as soon as possible. The coordinates for the deepest cells are sent alongside directions, with a constant warning to avoid direct contact with the kaiju there. The kaiju has long been absorbing rift energy and LILITH strongly advises against any attempts to engage with it until more information is known.
After half an hour, LILITH gives formal clearance to kill anyone interfering with the mission. Villagers, cult members, anyone. This includes Outsiders who may have temporarily been brainwashed, with the caveat of bringing back their bodies as they may be able to save them.
As they get further into the dungeons, they will find themselves susceptible to the side effects of rift poisoning. It is far more potent with each step, and will take laser focus to make one's way all the way to the last holding cells. There they will find the several of the castle’s most devout followers desperately calling out for The Lord of the Forest, as if summoning its presence.
…
…
…
… and The Lord of the Forest answers the cries of its followers. The initial part of this battle is difficult as the kaiju's abilities paired with the abnormalities of the rift result in weakening the powers of all living organisms around him, including the powers of the Outsiders. However, due to the phases of the moon, its abilities to nerf powers seem to have diminished slightly - they are able to use their abilities at a lower output, or at times they will find their abilities can cut in and out. After five to ten minutes of the Outsiders actually engaging the creature, they will find LILITH has effectively sealed the rift below the dungeons. It is far from perfectly done, but will allow the Outsiders the window of opportunity to use their all in their battle with the Lord of the Forest before backup arrives.
The battle against the PRICOLICI will not be made easy, especially as its weaknesses are not as straightforward to tap in as most elements. However, LILITH will provide utmost support for the Outsiders who want to try their hand at defeating it. While it was once believed to be immortal, perhaps due to the disconnection of the rift and the moon, it does seem weaker the longer the Outsiders engage with it. There are also pockets in which wolfsbane bloom in secret in the dungeon, and the PRICOLICI will evade these specific areas, as well as any places containing holy relics.
"Angels of LILITH, we have connection. Rescue your team mates no matter the cost!"
With the connection reestablished, the main objective of the mission becomes one thing: RESCUE. For Outsiders who may have still been left at the village, or engaged within their own horrors, they are all advised to head to the dungeons as soon as possible. The coordinates for the deepest cells are sent alongside directions, with a constant warning to avoid direct contact with the kaiju there. The kaiju has long been absorbing rift energy and LILITH strongly advises against any attempts to engage with it until more information is known.
After half an hour, LILITH gives formal clearance to kill anyone interfering with the mission. Villagers, cult members, anyone. This includes Outsiders who may have temporarily been brainwashed, with the caveat of bringing back their bodies as they may be able to save them.
As they get further into the dungeons, they will find themselves susceptible to the side effects of rift poisoning. It is far more potent with each step, and will take laser focus to make one's way all the way to the last holding cells. There they will find the several of the castle’s most devout followers desperately calling out for The Lord of the Forest, as if summoning its presence.
…
…
…
… and The Lord of the Forest answers the cries of its followers. The initial part of this battle is difficult as the kaiju's abilities paired with the abnormalities of the rift result in weakening the powers of all living organisms around him, including the powers of the Outsiders. However, due to the phases of the moon, its abilities to nerf powers seem to have diminished slightly - they are able to use their abilities at a lower output, or at times they will find their abilities can cut in and out. After five to ten minutes of the Outsiders actually engaging the creature, they will find LILITH has effectively sealed the rift below the dungeons. It is far from perfectly done, but will allow the Outsiders the window of opportunity to use their all in their battle with the Lord of the Forest before backup arrives.
█ █ █ MONSTER DEBRIEF SHEET
NAME: PRICOLICI
HEIGHT: VARIES
WEIGHT: VARIES
CLASS: EXTREMELY DANGEROUS
LOCATION: BRAȘOV, TRANSYLVANIA
ABILITIES: SHAPESHIFTING, IMMORTALITY, NIGHT VISION, SUPER STRENGTH
WEAKNESSES: SUNLIGHT, HOLY RELICS, GARLIC, WOLFSBANE
EXTRA NOTES: This kaiju has a malicious intent to all humans besides those who praise it. It's said it will bless all of its followers abundantly on this Earth and grant them immortal life.
The battle against the PRICOLICI will not be made easy, especially as its weaknesses are not as straightforward to tap in as most elements. However, LILITH will provide utmost support for the Outsiders who want to try their hand at defeating it. While it was once believed to be immortal, perhaps due to the disconnection of the rift and the moon, it does seem weaker the longer the Outsiders engage with it. There are also pockets in which wolfsbane bloom in secret in the dungeon, and the PRICOLICI will evade these specific areas, as well as any places containing holy relics.
▶ 005. AFTERMATH.
The remaining villagers do their utmost in attempting to ground the LILITH medical cruiser, using cannons and other primitive weapons against it. Fortunately, they do not succeed. With the LILITH medical crew all present, they begin their work promptly. Outsiders can not only use the medical cruiser as a temporary base and resting point, but those with severe injuries are ushered in for emergency surgeries and other necessary procedures. Those who can heal are encouraged to take care of the ones with less major injuries in order to lighten the load on LILITH’s medical robots... and Dr. Spim, of course.
When the final battle finally winds down, several more mission objectives crop up. While no formal decision is pushed on the Outsiders this time, they are given several choices.
Although LILITH has permitted Outsiders to take their own stance in whether they want to kill those involved in the ritual, including the villagers, they do state the final request to spare the children, which they plan to bring back to Neo Tokyo. Those who do not wish to engage in the taking of lives will be encouraged to continue assisting and escorting any injured Outsiders. Finally, all Outsiders are tasked to take with them any goods that LILITH could benefit from, including any sources of food.
Once this has all been completed, they will all be encouraged to leave Transylvania behind.
Back at base, they are presently working on the cure for those who were bitten and turned. While the brainwashing element has been resolved through persuasion tech, it wasn't possible for them to fully reverse the other side effects. LILITH staff are requesting those affected to remain indoors until they figure out what they need in order to completely rid them of this ailment.
(Note: The above mission objectives in this section are all optional! Please remember that you only need to engage in the plots and ideas you are comfortable with. If you would prefer your character to leave early to take the others back to recover at base, that is completely fine. We want this to be flexible and for people to play with what inspires them. You are also free to come up with other ways your character can help during this time, as long as it does not break any game rules.)
When the final battle finally winds down, several more mission objectives crop up. While no formal decision is pushed on the Outsiders this time, they are given several choices.
Although LILITH has permitted Outsiders to take their own stance in whether they want to kill those involved in the ritual, including the villagers, they do state the final request to spare the children, which they plan to bring back to Neo Tokyo. Those who do not wish to engage in the taking of lives will be encouraged to continue assisting and escorting any injured Outsiders. Finally, all Outsiders are tasked to take with them any goods that LILITH could benefit from, including any sources of food.
Once this has all been completed, they will all be encouraged to leave Transylvania behind.
Back at base, they are presently working on the cure for those who were bitten and turned. While the brainwashing element has been resolved through persuasion tech, it wasn't possible for them to fully reverse the other side effects. LILITH staff are requesting those affected to remain indoors until they figure out what they need in order to completely rid them of this ailment.
(Note: The above mission objectives in this section are all optional! Please remember that you only need to engage in the plots and ideas you are comfortable with. If you would prefer your character to leave early to take the others back to recover at base, that is completely fine. We want this to be flexible and for people to play with what inspires them. You are also free to come up with other ways your character can help during this time, as long as it does not break any game rules.)
▶ 006. AFTERWORD.
Welcome to fifth kaiju log!
Thanks to the Outsiders' efforts, they were able to engage with the kaiju in this fight. Due to them piecing the clues of the skulls helping to destroy the fog, they were able to gain access to Bran Castle. As they have also kept their suspicions of the villagers, some even including to sacrifice them, they were able to unearth them being associated with the cult, and able to uncover their involvement. Outsiders were also able to add wolfsbane as a weakness to the kaiju due to the messages exchanged between the kidnapped and non-kidnapped - and so this detail was also added into the log. We appreciate everyone’s engagement in this and hope you have fun with this outcome!
Feel free to NPC your characters' fights with the minions. The main fight with the largest one will be determined via a HP-based system (See below). Feel free to ask any other questions below! Additionally, we did clarify some questions in regards to vampires/general weaknesses here, as well!
For the vampire prompts, feel free to work with the setting in how you want your character to experience being turned, and potentially turning others. It was made vague to allow flexibility, so if you'd like to have your character just feed off of people without turning them, that works. If they want to turn all their friends, that is also 100% okay. Those who have been turned are welcome to play with that as they see fit. As mentioned, LILITH will be actively working on the cure, and this will be something revisited in the TDM, or on our quest board, so be on the lookout for that!
All tags on this log are worth 2 points and will count towards October AC.
Thanks to the Outsiders' efforts, they were able to engage with the kaiju in this fight. Due to them piecing the clues of the skulls helping to destroy the fog, they were able to gain access to Bran Castle. As they have also kept their suspicions of the villagers, some even including to sacrifice them, they were able to unearth them being associated with the cult, and able to uncover their involvement. Outsiders were also able to add wolfsbane as a weakness to the kaiju due to the messages exchanged between the kidnapped and non-kidnapped - and so this detail was also added into the log. We appreciate everyone’s engagement in this and hope you have fun with this outcome!
Feel free to NPC your characters' fights with the minions. The main fight with the largest one will be determined via a HP-based system (See below). Feel free to ask any other questions below! Additionally, we did clarify some questions in regards to vampires/general weaknesses here, as well!
For the vampire prompts, feel free to work with the setting in how you want your character to experience being turned, and potentially turning others. It was made vague to allow flexibility, so if you'd like to have your character just feed off of people without turning them, that works. If they want to turn all their friends, that is also 100% okay. Those who have been turned are welcome to play with that as they see fit. As mentioned, LILITH will be actively working on the cure, and this will be something revisited in the TDM, or on our quest board, so be on the lookout for that!
All tags on this log are worth 2 points and will count towards October AC.
EVENT BREAKDOWN/RECAP (CLICK TO EXPAND)
1. LORD OF THE FOREST: On the days leading up to the 15th, kidnapped characters are brought to the dungeons to receive their punishments. The punishments are administered in a way that suggests that the followers have many years of experience, and that they are all part of a sacrificial ritual to summon the Lord of the Forest; once the ritual begins, it can't be stopped. On the morning of the 15th, LILITH is able to send out a distorted monster debrief sheet that the captives will be able to briefly see before experiencing a heavy disturbance of rift energy. Captives in the dungeons will also be able to see the Lord of the Forest, but it will disperse back into the rift after being summoned.
2. FIND THE CAPTIVES: The Outsiders figure out that the captives are held in Bran Castle; the fog gradually lifts and the outline of the castle will be visible. The villagers will do everything they can to prevent the Outsiders from reaching the castle, from using the children to persuade them to stay to more violent means. Outsiders who have a poison dagger from LILITH are able to use it on the villagers without prior clearance due to the spotty connection. Vampires are among the villagers attacking the Outsiders; if they are bitten, their bodies will feel feverish. Once Outsiders reach the castle gates, they will have to break through the castle attendants to reach the dungeons.
3. THE DUNGEON OF CASTLE BRAN: Outsiders must fight through more attendants inside the castle as they make their way down to the dungeons. The layout of the dungeons is much bigger than it may seem on the surface—with over hundreds of cells, some of which still contain the remains and personal effects of previous villagers who have been sacrificed. Bats, minions of the Lord of the Forest, will attack the Outsiders and those who are bitten may begin to lose control of themselves with a thirst for blood. Bitten Outsiders may attack their teammates as a result, and may also be more susceptible to psychic brainwashing.
4. THE FINAL RESCUE: LILITH confirms the main mission objective of rescuing all the captives and gives formal clearance to kill anyone interfering with the mission, which includes any Outsiders who may have been temporarily brainwashed. The bodies of any fallen Outsiders must be brought back as LILITH may be able to restore them. Going deeper into the dungeons will cause side effects of rift poisoning to manifest. The Lord of the Forest appears to engage the Outsiders; its ability to weaken abilities is diminished slightly due to the phases of the moon. Five to ten minutes into the battle, LILITH seals off the rift below the dungeons, allowing Outsiders an opportunity to go all in on attacking the Lord of the Forest.
5. AFTERMATH: LILITH's medical crew arrives to begin treating injured Outsiders. Those who are able to heal or have medical experience are encouraged to treat Outsiders with minor injuries to lighten the load on LILITH's medical staff. Once the battle winds down, Outsiders are given several options on what to do next: kill the followers and the villagers, but sparing the children (who will be brought to Neo Tokyo); continue assisting and escorting any injured Outsiders to safety; taking any goods from the village that will benefit LILITH, including food sources. Once completed, Outsiders will leave Transylvania to embark on the journey back to Neo Tokyo.
Aftermath. I'm here for that comfort and bonding
—No, it's not that, truly. It's merely because he's never been close enough to anyone to want to reach out to them. But it's different, here. And Ereshkigal is someone Ratio can say he... perhaps like is too strong a word, but he holds her in positive regard, so to hear her muffled wails in some corner of the base when she's meant to be on bedrest is... unpleasing.
Of course, upon finding her, the first thing Ratio does is—turn around and leave. Because what would you expect from the aloof scholar? Except he returns fairly quickly, coming even closer until he's standing in front of Eresh. And then—
A fluffy blanket settles over her head and shoulders, pooling around her and creating a barrier between her and the rest of the world. Ratio kneels down to arrange the blanket neatly, and then waits patiently for the goddess to finish crying her heart out. ]
how far they've come...
That's what Ereshkigal imagines happened after the sound of the footsteps grew distant and fade. It's for the best really. She doesn't want for anyone to see her that weak... She's the one who look after the souls of the dead. She's the one who offers comfort and reassurance to those who are lost.
And with what she's done in the castle... She's a goddess, and she failed in every way. She is the last person deserving of sympathy and ]
...?
[ Who- What? Were it any other circumstances, she would open her eyes wide and look around in surprise. But she doesn't even have the energy to look up. She doesn't need to, for she recognizes the presence next to her who's covering her with a blanket. Normally, both the world and her mind are too noisy to really perceive people's soul on an instinctive level, but here she can feel it clear as day. Veritas Ratio.
Is he... Is he caring for her? For an old and undeserving goddess like her? She would start crying if she wasn't already busy doing so! S-She knew he had it in him to be sweet and considerate, but she would never have imagined he would come to comfort her like that.
Finally, the crying slows. She still doesn't look up, she still doesn't want to be seen like that. But... Amidst all the misery, she feels something warm inside. The kind of warmth only a dear friend can bring to you, simply by being there for you. The kind she's only felt around a few people before - and even with Ratio being added to their number, they can still be counted on the fingers of only one hand. ]
T-Thank you...
so far, so precious
He's not entirely sure what has happened to Ereshkigal in the castle, but given all of the kidnapped Outsiders' states, and a few mutterings from the ones who'd found them first, he has an inkling that she must be blaming herself for the events that transpired.
There's nothing that can be done about it, really. He cannot tell her to become smarter, more resistant to mental influence, or any other trite solution that would only serve to bolster his ego and crush hers. None of that could apply, because ultimately it is LILITH who has limited her so greatly that she cannot resist the influence of a kaiju. If she is truly a goddess, surely she would be able to crush the kaiju without a second thought—but here, she is only a powerful human-like being, no better than the rest of them. She cannot be blamed, but guilt does not operate on logic.
So Ratio does not voice any of his thoughts. He does not try to absolve her of her guilt, berate her for absconding from the infirmary, remind her that she is only human here, none of that. He does not even tell her that he is not in need of her gratitude. Instead, he silently stands and leaves again, without a word.
And once again, returns before the thought of being abandoned can set too deeply into Ereshkigal's mind. He kneels once more and sets something down next to Ereshkigal with an audible click of ceramic against the floor. Moments later, the smell of something sweet follows. ]
Here.
[ If Ereshkigal can find it in her to see what he's presented, she'll be met with a mug of hot chocolate. And if she looks at Ratio, she'll find he has settled next to her, distant enough to give her space, and looking at a book in his hand. Not at her, or her face. ]
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She peeks behind her pillow, a red eye looking at what he put on the floor and... A weak, tired but genuine smile appears on her lips for a second. He's such a far cry from the distant, cold man she'd first met during the grand maid disaster. She remembers her accusation of him not understanding the human heart... Oh how wrong she'd been. Or perhaps he's just grown that much since she's told him that.
She slowly reaches for the mug and takes it, holding close to her for warmth. And she remains silent for a moment more, still sniffling and crying, but not as intensely as she had moments before. She's got so much difficulties with people and crowds, but having a friend who just stands (or sits) silently next to you is... nice. She'd never realized before, she'd always been so afraid of silences being awkward and betraying her lack of social skills. But sometimes it's just nice to be with a friend and not talk.
After a moment though, she finally does speak. Not out of obligation but just because it... it comes naturally. And she wants to voice those things aloud to someone she can trust. And he's most definitely one of the few people she truly trusts now. ]
They... They tortured us. Tried to steal our minds and hearts with their injections and spells...
[ The physical pain hadn't been that bad. Oh, it did hurt like hell, of course. But accumulating pain was something she was accustomed to. She can't speak for those who lost limbs and life however. She would probably be even worse off had she suffered such loss.
No, the mental pain is what's getting to her. The weakness she displayed. ]
I fought to return to reality... But every time, they just would do more of it. [A pause.] And every time it got harder to fight back... Until I couldn't any more.
[ Had she been happier with her life - had she been happier with herself - would she have been able to resist more? She doesn't like her old self, and she can't say she really likes her current self either.
Abandoning who you are is more tempting of a prospect when you bear no love for yourself. Happiness that is hollow and empty is better than nothing when your life is one you are unhappy with. If she'd cared more for herself... But she never did. And her comrades paid the price. One more than the others. ]
And I... I-I killed Taryon... [Her hand starts trembling. She's killed before - why she is death itself. But that was different. She'd been their puppet. She'd felt happiness while doing it.] I was... smiling... s-singing...
[ And she breaks down crying once more. ]
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He wasn't truly reading his book. He didn't know Ereshkigal well enough to allow his mind to shift away from her for a moment, but it was easier to concentrate on formulating ideas to handle her when he wasn't visually distracted. That she speaks up is a surprise, because he is so used to waiting and waiting and waiting for someone who would have never opened up to him if the circumstances hadn't aligned.
He can't imagine what it's like. He has led a privileged life, and even here, he has managed to be insulated from the worst of all the pain and suffering. If he were in Ereshkigal's position, would he have lasted as long as her?
Maybe. Maybe not. He had no way of experiencing what she did, nor did he want to. Claiming he wouldn't have fared any better isn't much of a reassurance anyway. But what is it she needs right now? Forgiveness? Absolution? No. Just like how he cannot shake off the weight he bears for devising a weapon that has killed billions of people, though it was not by his own hand that it was used, she will not find solace in anything he says. Words alone cannot heal the wounds of the heart.
He sets down his book quietly and shifts so he's closer. He reaches out for her slowly and hesitantly, pausing for a moment before deciding to commit to his action, and wraps an arm around her shoulders in what is meant to be a comforting hug. It is loose enough that she is free to pull away if she wants to. ]
You are a kind and gentle individual, and I feared greatly for you when I learned you were taken. It is difficult to remain so when the world is determined to strip you of it.
[ There is an implication in his words: that her kindness is a strength, and the fragility that comes with it is a natural consequence of baring her heart to the world. He is not necessarily absolving her if she does not wish for that, but what he is trying to express is that he understands the experience must have been difficult for her.
Quieter: ]
I am glad you've returned to us, Ereshkigal.
[ Both in mind and in body. ]
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"It is difficult to remain so when the world is determined to strip you of it."
She remembers when her eternity of loneliness had turned her into a cold, cruel goddess. It had hurt less then. When you distance yourself from everything that makes you you, it's easier to handle pain. Her old self would have been crying too, no doubt. But perhaps not as much. She would have buried those feelings deep and done something embarrassing to try handling the pain.
And then she says he's glad she's returned to them. That's...
Possibly some of the most heartfelt words that have ever been spoken to her. Her crying redoubles, but it's different this time. There's some happiness in there, even if the sorrow is still oh-so overwhelming. ]
I... I'm glad to be back...!
[ She sets the mug on the ground and throw her arms around Ratio, crying on his shoulder. For a brief moment, she'd considered giving in willingly to the brainwashing. A life with no more worries, with no more anxiety- A life where people appreciate and love her for what she is. A life where she had a feeling of belonging. All a lie, but for a moment in her mind? The thought had been appealing.
But... She has that her? People who love her. People who wish for her return.
She's glad. So glad to have a friend who cares for her so. So glad to have a place she can call home, where he and her other friends are. ]
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He stiffens when she launches herself at him and embraces him. He had expected it, of course, but it's different when it becomes reality. Awkwardly, he wraps his other arm around her and shifts so that Ereshkigal is comfortably held in his arms. The gesture comes easier than he expects, and eventually he relaxes into the hug. ]
Take all the time you need.
[ This is the most he can give her, since he is not any good at emotional support, nor is he close enough to be considered a friend. Until she finds someone who can better soothe her, a shoulder to cry on is what he will be. ]
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"Take all the time you need."
How could not consider himself her friend after that? Hopefully they'll have a chance at talking about that later. Though... That brings to mind another question. One she is sure he has an answer to, but that is a bit difficult to ask. Still, she wants - needs - to know. They didn't talk while in the castle, but she'd kept an eye on him from afar to make sure he took care of himself and was fine.
They may not be friend, but she knows how much he means to the doctor. And of course, that person is: ]
Aventurine... Is-Is he safe?
[ She suspects that yes. She doesn't think Ratio would be here if he had died. She imagines he would either be trying to focus on some scientific work in an attempt to pretend everything is fine, or breaking down in a corner of his own. ]
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...yes, he's fine. Injured, but nothing lethal or permanently altering.
[ She's right. If Aventurine had died, he wouldn't have the bandwidth to comfort Ereshkigal. Instead, he would have poured his entire being into treating all the Outsiders, and broken down much later, when everyone had healed and there was nothing left for him to do except wallow in his pain.
But that's not what happened. Aventurine is alive and not in mental anguish and because of that, Ratio can rest easy and focus on providing care with all his heart. ]
Stop by and greet him. He will not appreciate your company, but that is for him to deal with.
[ Isolation would do Aventurine no good. He's certain of that much. ]
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She tries to smile at his suggestion. It's not a super convincing smile, but she's doing her very best. ]
Maybe... Maybe when I'll feel better...
[ Certainly not now. She doesn't trust herself not to break down in tears spontaneously if something triggers her trauma. Also he's rated her a three out of ten, that's a slight he'll have to correct if she is to befriend him!
She tilts her head down. It feels like the worst of it is behind, but she knows herself. There's probably going to be many more crying sessions. With this human vessel, it's an inevitability. ]
Thank you doctor. I... I'm glad to have made such a wonderful friend here.
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He pats her head gently in response to the weak smile. ]
When you're ready.
[ A... friend, she says. He tries his best to keep his face neutral, if not the maintain the expression he's currently wearing. A friend... ]
I'm certain you have many more friends who desire your safety and happiness here. You should go to them.
cw: mentions of suicidal ideation
I... I don't want them to see me like this.
[ Would they be happy to help her? Yes, she's sure of it. But she doesn't want them to see her like that. Is it because she feels unworthy of that help, because she doesn't want to be a bother or because she wants her image to be preserved? A mixture of all three, perhaps.
She's shown that side of her too much lately. But that's not what she wants to be, a goddess who's never learned to control her emotions... An unhappy goddess so weak, she cannot resist a mere kaiju's spell. Though, the doctor has never learned why she is that way, has he? Maybe... Maybe... ]
... There was never anyone down there. Nobody to talk to. Nobody to befriend. To be comforted by... [Her eyes drift down, staring absently at the pillow.] The dead sleep... But their caretaker doesn't. N-Never, even when she wants to...
[ And she doesn't mean sleep in the literal sense - but sleep in the sense of death. Gods are born from human thoughts. What human could live imprisoned underground alone for eternity and be happy? None, of course. And so, no god born from humanity's thoughts and desires could be happy in such circumstances.
But even so, she must smile. For the souls who depend on her. ]
I need time... I-It is all so new to me. [She buries her head back into the pillow. She can feel the tears coming back, that means it's hiding.] I will go to them... B-But only when I'll be able to... [A pause.] ... smile.
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He listens attentively as Ereshkigal speaks and finds himself empathizing with her. His life is not the same as hers, but the solitary aspect of it is similar. There's nothing he can say to help her, really. Again, emotional comfort is something he's awful at. But there is something he wants to say. ]
You cling to your duty far too much.
[ Bluntly. Perhaps too much, but he elaborates on it quickly. ]
Was it not your desire to be treated like a person, not a Goddess? Here, you do not have the powers that come with your identity as one. For individuals such as myself, you do not even have dominion over our eventual deaths, for we do not belong to the same planet, or even the same universe. What does that mean? Simply: to us, you are just another person.
So long as you are here, you cannot perform your original duty. But conversely, that means you are free from it for as long as you are here. It is akin a vacation, is it not?
[ Yeah let's just ignore everything that just happened okay... It's a vacation!!! At least that's how Ratio wants to treat this himself, even if it's been difficult to lately. ]
There are people you can talk to, befriend, and be comforted by. These feelings you are experiencing, and your struggles... they're all normal here. If you wanted to be someone who expresses her kindness and sadness freely without judgement... you can be, here.
[ Actually, he's not sure where he's going with this. It just bothers him that she asks him to treat her like a regular person but doesn't grant herself the same grace. But... has he not already proven that he is terrible at comfort? Surely this would incense her once more. ]
No, actually—I've overstepped my boundaries. Disregard my words.
[ He's going to shift away from her, in case she really does get angry at him. ]
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Even that vacation comparison is one she's used before. ]
No... You're right.
[ He's absolutely right. An,d it heartens her to hear him say that, as a matter of fact. He's not the first one to have said it. So why is she still so hard on herself? The self-loathing is just that strong?
No... It's more than that. It's like trying to change her ways, how she thinks about herself, is a struggle. ]
Gods... We don't really change. [They're supposed to be born as perfected beings. The potential for evolution is thus something that is completely absent from their very being.] To change, to evolve, to adapt... That's the potential humanity holds.
[ She looks up at him. ]
Thankfully... I have been blessed with a fraction of that potential. [Her and her sister both- Not because they have a human vessel. But because they are the only goddesses who have spent the entirety of their existence dwelling amongst humans. Those who live for her sister, and those who are dead and sleeping for her.] I'm a bit slow... But you're right. [And finally, she manages to give him a genuine smile.] I think I'll get there with friends like you.
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[ Since he is very much a human, and not a god like Ereshkigal used to keep accusing him of acting, there are a few lessons in humanity that he wishes to impart upon her. ]
It is in human nature to trap oneself in a box of their own making. With labels comes expectations of what you should and shouldn't do. The truth, for humans, is that we are capable of much more than we believe ourselves to be. Yet, some label themselves as stupid, lazy, or conversely, smart, clever, and use those labels to justify complacency.
You can be much more than a goddess, here. I am certain of that. So long as you continue to push yourself and improve upon what you perceive as your flaws, you can become better.
[ Oh, that's some heavy expectations he's placing upon her, isn't it? That might be too much pressure when she's already suffering from the pressure of being a goddess. ]
But that does not mean you must exert yourself constantly. It is also important to understand how to care for oneself, physically and mentally. That is key to attaining the best version of yourself, after all.
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She agrees with his words and she can see the wisdom in his advice-- But it feels like he's expecting her to turn into a social butterfly who takes care of herself overnight and she's. Painfully aware it's not happening, not anytime soon. ]
... Y-You're right. [She marks a pause.] But... I need time.
[ She's told him that earlier. But it's not like she's using that as an excuse. ]
Had we met a year ago... I wouldn't have been capable of holding a conversation with you.
[ She wouldn't have known how to go about it and she would have dug herself deeper into a hole of loneliness and resentment. It may not be that obvious, but she's changed. Drastically so, for a goddess in so little time. ]
I'm changing... But I cannot go faster, doctor.
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...I did not mean to pressure you. I merely... [ wish that she'd stop being so hard on herself ] believe that you will be able to find peace here.
Take all the time you need.
[ He's done enough for her, he thinks. Enough that she'll be able to find her way on her own. She will find friends to cherish and people she can be happy with, and his job will have been done.
(It doesn't occur to him that he's imagined a life for her without a space for himself. As if he doesn't belong, because what is a teacher but someone whose students surpass them and eventually leave them behind?) ]