KAIJU FIGHT #10

[synfluxmods]

KAIJU FIGHT #10

CONTENT WARNINGS: bugs, insects, wasps (prompts 3 and 4), insect stings, rift poisoning, medical testing (antidote to the sickness) and emotional side effects.

▶ 001. FIND THE HIVE.

Reports of mysterious drumming deep in the forest seem promising. With the assistance of local scouts, they also find a clear path of destruction marked by dead plants and fallen insect kaiju. After collecting enough data, LILITH Mexico calls back the Outsiders and their scouts to regroup and recover for what they believe to be the final battle.

Based on their understanding of the region, the clues they've found, and Rift readings, they suspect a human-threat level kaiju is at the location of a known ancient temple. The reason they called the Outsiders back, however, is because it seems like not just one but two of these kaiju might be there. They want the Outsiders to recoup their strength before they head out.

Additionally, they believe one of the kaiju is one they have records of. A long time ago, during the first kaiju attacks, a plant-like kaiju they called "Nephenthipula" appeared and destroyed many cities which resulted in them becoming swallowed up by the expanding jungle. Over time, it simply went dormant and the forest became what it is today. They don't know why it suddenly returned but they suspect it might have something to do with the forest.

Before the teams are sent out, Dr. Flores approaches. Thanks to the hard work and research the Outsiders have been able to do, a basic antidote has been created that should be effective in helping to deal with most of the symptoms that they’ve been experiencing. There’s a very limited amount, however, and he recommends that the Outsiders are cautious: once it’s gone, there won’t be any more until the kaiju is dealt with.

The other downside? It’s not completely refined, so some Outsiders might continue to face side effects. He has more good news to offset this, though: Based on toxicology reports and additional reports about abandoned hives and dead colonies, he suspects the second kaiju might be a wasp of some sort.

Both the wasp kaiju and the Nephenthipula are located deep within the jungle, further even than most outsiders have dared to travel. Interestingly, based on the coordinates they have received so far... they both seem to be in the same vicinity. Before being sent out they will be warned to prepare for a potential double battle.

▶ 002. OPERATION: NEPHENTHIPULA

The trip to the designated coordinate is fraught with danger. The forest seems to close in on itself, like it is protecting whatever it is that the Outsiders are trying to reach. The vines almost seem to take on a life of their own, the deeper into the jungle they travel. Forest creatures will attack outsiders, divebombing and trying to stop them when they take breaks from the trek deeper into the jungle. The deadly plants will become more aggressive, and the deeper Outsiders go… the quieter it gets.

The animals stop attacking. The vines almost seem half-hearted as they move deeper. They are thinner and weaker. Many are cut or rotted. They’ve been chewed through and though they still try to stop the outsiders, it is more like stopping the inevitable. As Outsiders breach the treeline, they’ll come into a clearing, where not only the Nephenthipula resides, rising from the forest like a raging colossus, but it is focused on a ruin. On trying to destroy it, its vines try to slap down stone towers, and strangle out parts of the ruin, but on the Outsiders' arrival, its focus is now fully shifted to focus on the new arrivals. Now is your chance, but Outsiders will find that they have to split up, and while some stay and fight the Nephenthipula; intel says that the Vescidae is inside the ruins but there is no clear way in.

Outsiders will quickly realize the Nephenthipula is not alone. In response to the plant kaiju, the entire forest seems to come to its aid. Vines will spread across the battlefield, attempting to tangle and strangle the Outsiders. Different vines manifest thorns, carnivorous flowers, and razor leaves to deter them even more.

Local kaiju also join in. Mutated jaguars, monkeys, snakes, and iguanas appear to further hinder their advances. From above, mutated butterflies, hummingbirds, and beetles rain pollen dosed with Rift energy. On top of the usual Rift sickness, this one seems to have an additional effect as well. The longer Outsiders are exposed to it, the more reluctant they are to attack the plant life and animal kaiju. They will feel a bond with the forest and become aggressive towards Outsiders causing harm.

The forest is their ally. They have to protect the forest at all costs. If that means turning against their friends then so be it. As long as Outsiders ally with the forest, they will find that they can call on it to assist them in limited capacity. They can use vines to block attacks and command some of the mutated kaiju to attack. Fortunately, Dr. Flores' antidote uses resources from the forest itself to counter some of these effects.

▶ 003. INTO THE HIVE.

Observant Outsiders may notice an entrance into the temple. They will have to find a way up the steps, over living and dead vines. Occasionally the vines cover the entrance so Outsiders will have to destroy them again and again to enter.

With this being the only entrance and the vines controlling how many can enter at a time, it is essentially a bottleneck. Those who enter first will have to be ready to respond quickly because sentry wasps the size of housecats will charge at them. They are small, fast, and aggressive but weak. Their stings are incredibly painful to victims but fatal to the wasps which die shortly after. However, after being stung, the Outsider may notice they are attacked more frequently, as if they have been specifically marked.

Eventually, the sentry drones die or retreat, granting them peace. The inside of the temple is covered in a paper-mache like material. Instead of the regular comb shaped pattern one might expect, the combs are shaped like stars. From deep inside the temple, they will hear a steady drumming sound. Following the drumming sound will lead them to even more sentry drones as well as larger soldier drones that are far more aggressive.

They will have to navigate the catacombs of the temple to find and kill the queen. Surprisingly, characters that have been stung will instinctively know which direction they need to go in and will feel drawn to its location. They will also be able to telepathically communicate with others who have been stung or significantly affected by the hive's rift energy.

They will encounter more sentry drones as well as larger solder drones that are far more aggressive. They will also find comb filled with a thick, sweet, milky colored substance and larvae in the center. Characters affected by the hivemind will know this is a precious, nutrient rich resource. Maybe it might be worth collecting?

▶ 004. OPERATION: VESCIDAE

The drumming sound becomes practically deafening and the Outsiders will find themselves in a great, open hall. The walls are carved with designs all the way up to the ceiling which is filled with stars. In the center of the hall they will see the Queen Vescidae. Her wings beat in a steady, drumming sound that echoes off the walls as she takes to the air and attacks.

As she attacks, drones will fly down from the ceiling to her aid. The venom from their stings is very potent and fast acting. At first, it clears the mind of their victims but some Outsiders react to this differently. Some Outsiders become incredibly calm and relaxed, as if all of their concerns– including the battle– are unimportant to them. Others will find that their new clarity makes it easier for them to focus, making them react to attacks faster and giving them an energy boost. For those who are particularly unlucky, however, the venom seems to wipe their minds completely, making them incredibly susceptible to the hypnotic beating of the Queen Vescidae's wings.

Certain Outsiders may suddenly find themselves turning on their friends as they become loyal to the hive. Their priority will become protecting the queen. By essentially becoming new drones, they become a part of the hive's hierarchy and can order lesser drones to assist them. Outsiders that still have Dr. Flores' antidote can protect themselves and potentially save some of their friends.

In a closed space, the battle is especially chaotic and it only gets worse when parts of the temple-hive begin to crumble and collapse. Vines pierce through the walls and outside attacks make the entire hive tremble. Letting in light and fresh air from outside which provides some relief. Shinn is able to land a critical attack on the Vescidae which stuns it. It staggers in the air disoriented and this allows the Outsiders to attack more easily. Shoto sets it on fire and it frantically begins to fly into the walls of the hive, causing more of it to collapse. Eventually, a reckless attack from Geto brings it down once and for all, putting an end to it.

The Vescidae smolders as parts of the hive and temple collapse around it. As parts of the ceiling collapse, they can see the traditional star designs up close. At the center of each star is a drawing of a striped insect.

▶ 005. AFTERMATH.

Outside the hive, the battlefield and temple are swallowed up by vines and plantlife. In all of the chaos, it is impossible to tell where the Nephenthipula stops and where the Nephenthipula begins. They finally get a break when Ereshkigal's spears do massive damage, severing many of the Nephenthipula's vines. This makes it easier for Outsiders to attack closer or allows them to focus on holding back the forest and lesser kaiju. Weakened by everyone's efforts, the Nephenthipula eventually grows tired which allows Raphael to find an opening. The kaiju falls to the ground and begins to wither. As it turns to dust, a voice whispers, "How could you all do this to us and this planet?"

With its most powerful fighter defeated, the forest has taken a major blow. It still tries to defend itself but all of its attacks are much weaker. It does not stop until the hive temple begins to crumble and the beating sound from within comes to a stop. Suddenly, everything goes silent as the vines still and the lesser kaiju stop to observe.

Finally, the forest breathes. The vines recede and the lesser kaiju return to the jungle, leaving the Outsiders alone.

With the kaiju dealt with, it’s like a heavy weight has been lifted from the city, and the air itself feels less oppressive. Many of the issues that Outsiders had been dealing with seem to settle, the way of nature restored. It’s not all perfect, and there are still some lingering effects of pollen and other issues, but things seem to be better, to say the least. The Rift energy that had plagued the landscape settles and, over time, begins to recede.

One of the more lingering effects is the sickness affecting the civilians. Dr. Flores, using the research materials that Outsiders had returned to base, has begun to create a cure for the strain. There’s a catch: there’s no one to test it on except the Outsiders, so he reluctantly asks for their aid in seeing how effective it is. At first, it doesn’t seem to work too successfully, so Dr. Flores requests the venom of the Vescidae and the royal honey-like substance in order to supplement the cure, and tasks Outsiders with bringing samples of the venom back to base. Once this is added, it works far better.

There are various side effects as the cure is tested. The happier of Outsiders might find themselves prone to bursts of anger and irritation, while the more bitter team members could find themselves experiencing bouts of ecstasy and euphoria. As night falls, some might find themselves irrationally afraid of the dark and struggling with a chronic case of insomnia, which nothing seems to relieve. Thanks to the kaiju venom, there are still lingering effects from previous ventures into the jungle… The same violence and extreme emotions from before (yes, those too).

In addition, in the city there is another kind of testing, the kaiju left more than just venom behind, after all. Some vendors, perfumers, and even bars and smoke shops are making use of the remaining pollen, and Outsiders might find themselves asked to try a free sample, or get sprayed with a random perfume without their asking. Surely it’s fine! You might find yourself subjected to some of the pollen effects, like the increased hunger (of any kind) so you might want to go satiate those munchies, pronto!

Once the cure has been tested appropriately, Dr. Flores begins to make the rounds on the locals, dealing with the most sick first. The cure is also handed out to the Outsiders, so they can do their part. Dr. Flores congratulates the Outsiders on their success, and seems genuinely pleased - and proud? - of the work they’ve put in. What’s that about blood sacrifices…? He doesn’t want to hear about any of that. Just hand over any remaining insects, please, and get ready for a return to home.

▶ 005. AFTERWORD.

This is Kaiju Fight #10! All comments in this event count for 2 points towards August AC. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask them below.

EVENT BREAKDOWN/RECAP (CLICK TO EXPAND)

1. FIND THE HIVE: Outsiders receive coordinates and useful information for their upcoming battle. Dr. Flores provides a basic antidote to protect them.


2. OPERATION: NEPHENTHIAPULA: The Nephenthipula is found outside a temple. The forest and native kaiju assist the Nephenthipula. Some Outsiders might feel a bond with the forest and turn on them. Dr. Flores's antidote can protect and cure some of them.


3. INTO THE HIVE: The temple has been converted into a hive. They fight drones while searching for the queen. They also find a royal honey-like in some of the combs.


4. OPERATION: VESCIDAE: The Queen Vescidae can induct Outsiders into the hivemind. Dr. Flores's antidote can protect and cure some of them.


5. AFTERMATH: The Nephenthipula is defeated and whispers an ominous question to the Outsiders as the forest retreats. Dr. Flores asks the Outsiders to collect venom and royal jelly from the battlefield to create a better cure. Outsiders can opt in to test the new antidote.

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Comments

Raidou Kuzunoha XIV | Devil Summoner | Everlight

[the_fourteenth]

🞂 001. OPERATION: NEPHENTHIPULA

[Poor Raidou. Perhaps he's just a little weak to the pollen? Perhaps it's an allergy? Or maybe for all his resistance against corruption and rift effects in the past, this is the way it needed to sneak into his system?

When the Nephenthipula appears and the Outsiders start their attacks, Raidou wastes no time and goes in with his fire sword at the ready. Before he can get too far, vines reach for an ankle and snare him, catching him off guard. He's dragged back towards some of the carnivorous plants, and is able to free himself with his weapon before they can drag him in again this time. Between the insects above, and getting into the flower's proximity, that's enough to give him another dose of pollen.

As the battle continues on, Raidou will start to step in the way of anyone attacking the local wildlife. When cornered by a kaiju jaguar, suddenly Raidou is there blocking your attack with his sword, or even his body. His nanotech will keep him from getting too hurt, hopefully. But you might want to get a dose of that antidote Dr. Flores handed out, because that steely, determined look is back in his eyes, and it's pointed at you. Better act fast, because vines are coming your way to drag you out of battle.]

🞂 002. AFTERMATH

[Raidou is one of the first in line to be a LILITH guinea pig for the pollen cure. He's really had enough of this stuff. The intense emotions it's been causing in him are, frankly, scaring him. Not that he'd ever admit it. But for a guy who's well practiced at keeping a stony facade and holding everything back, being unable to control his feelings and desires feels like a moral failing and a shameful weakness.

Unfortunately, he's only in for some confusing emotional flareups. While he can't seem to sleep no matter how hard he tries, he still feels... really good? Maybe that's the relief of knowing they defeated both kaiju with no harm to the city or civilians. Maybe it's the effect of experiencing such a beautiful city. Or maybe it's just the quietly building of side effects from the antidote.

If you happen to be out late around the city, you might encounter Raidou out for a walk. Is that a bright smile on his face? Is... is he humming to himself as he saunters lightly down the street, wrists folded behind his back and eyes on the stars?]

🞂 003. WILDCARD

[Anything else you might need!]

002

[harboredfeelings]

[ Kaga being Kaga, of course she's out late in the city. Walking back to base from some bar or excursion or another, Kiko loyally walking at her side (wolf-hound sized today). Both foxes stop dead in their tracks as they realize the humming they've been hearing is coming from Raidou of all people.

Kaga's seen him in a good mood before, but this is a little weird. ]

Kuzunoha-kun? Are you alright...?

[the_fourteenth]

[He stops, whirling around in his feet in a fluid motion, hand still behind his back.]

Evening, Kaga-san. I'm fine. Good, actually. How are you?

[The smile on him would be off-putting if it wasn't so genuine. It's still out of place on him, but hopefully it's a refreshing sight.]

Couldn't sleep, though. But that's not so unusual for me, I guess.

[harboredfeelings]

[ Kaga blinks, Kiko blinks. They both look at each other, then back at Raidou. ]

I'm fine. [ A bark from Kiko, which Kaga nods in response to.] As is Kiko.

[ Another pause as the two foxes exchange glances. ]

You're rather chipper for someone whos missing rest. Did something happen to put you in a good mood?

[the_fourteenth]

[He steps towards them, his steps light and meandering. When he approaches, he stoops down to give Kiko a soft pat on the head as he always does, a fond look on his face.

It takes him a few moments to formulate an answer to Kaga's question. He's not felt this good in a long time.]

... Did something happen? I don't know. [Yes. Obviously yes.] Should I question it? Perhaps I can't sleep, so I figured I'd come out and enjoy this city while I still can. It's so quiet at night. It's lovely.

[harboredfeelings]

[ Kiko's not about to argue with head pats! Her tails wag up a storm while she starts on her fox giggling thing.

Kaga is far more concerned than the shikigami though. While it's nice to see Raidou in a good mood for once after a mission, this seems a little much? ]

I see... [ No. No she does not. But she'll humor him for now. ] It's a little too inland for my personal taste, but I can't deny it holds some charm. But I'm surprised, you never struck me as a city night life kind of person.

[the_fourteenth]

[It's late enough now that the crowds have thinned, and people are wandering home after a night out. Raidou looks around at it with that smile still on him, shrugging a little.]

It's been quiet. Neo Tokyo rarely is, even this late. A nice place to have insomnia in, hmm? It's not like I'm out clubbing. Just out for a walk. I was thinking about how nice it'll be in a few months from now back home, and I can go ice skating again.

[Hence his little sauntering walk, mimicking the movements of sliding across the ice.]

But summer has its charms too, hmm? It'd be nice to go swimming. In something that isn't a stream in the middle of the rainforest this time, though.

[harboredfeelings]

Hmm.

[ That does all sound rather nice. And the more he talks the more it's actually kind of refreshing to see him in such good spirits. Sure, it's weird, but it's not like he's possessed or having his mind controlled or anything.

Hopefully. ]

True enough, though the only place really suitable for swimming is Okinawa. [ Tokyo Bay is... still kind of a work in progress. Kaga likes it of course, but that's because there's plenty of hostile mutated life in the water for target practice. ] How's that pet project of yours been coming, by the way? I haven't heard much since the year began.

[the_fourteenth]

It's going well. The greenhouse is done. If you can call it that. Now we've got more space for growing things and keeping them protected from the wildlife.

[As much as he wishes he could spend more time there, it's not possible. Got to keep the crabs and birds out of those crops somehow though. Elan kept telling him to steal one of the gardening robots from the base and take it there, but of course, Raidou's too well-behaved for that.]

You should come visit! Even if just to go swimming. You can see everything that's been done. Ah, and now that that's done, we can work on the boat, hopefully. Won't that be great if we can get it running? We'd be able to go out and catch so much more fish that way.

001

[eyescar]

[ Ah, this again.

Yuji has seen Raidou under the influence already, even if this is a little different, and he's quick to do what he can to make sure it doesn't get too bad. He knows that the other man will get upset if he actually hurts something, or things go wrong, and if there's one person durable enough to handle this for him... Well, he's happy to volunteer.

Leaping over the vines, he rubs the back of his head, laughing softly. ]

C'mon, Johei! Isn't this a bit much?

[the_fourteenth]

[Really, Yuji is the best one to diffuse this situation. He's not going to want to hurt him, no matter how resilient Raidou knows him to be. There's something nudging at the back of Raidou's mind telling him something isn't right again, but it's pushed aside by his want to keep the plants and wildlife safe.]

Don't-- You shouldn't--

[No chance to finish that thought. The jaguar that he was protecting certainly doesn't know what's going on, and uses this pause to jump at Raidou, who foolishly has his back to it. Vines whip its way, but they don't slow it down very much as it pounces on him.]

[eyescar]

I knew this was a bad idea.

[ Going out and getting involved with the pollen again, as if they're setting themselves up for trouble an danger. All Yuji can do is sigh, jerking out of the way in case Raidou comes close. Safe, he begins to rush in, to throw his body at the other man and pull him out of the way of the wildcat before it can do any damage.

Thank you, insane reflexes... ]

You need to be more careful!

[the_fourteenth]

[The jaguar just narrowly missed them both, Raidou blinking in surprise as Yuji yanks him out of the way. He watches as the cat jumps past, and instinct tells him to draw his sword. His hand moves to the sheath, but stops.

He glares at Yuji with a grimace, but there's confusion in those cold eyes. There's a lot of intense feelings battling for the lead, and it's only making him frustrated.]

It's fine, I would have been okay. Just--

[He looks to the jaguar, who's crouched to pounce again, but it hesitates as Raidou stares it down. Instead, it eyes up Yuji, baring its fangs, seemingly ready to attack again when Raidou puts out a hand to stop it.]

N-No! Not him. Go! Find-- someone else.

[The cat really doesn't enjoy being ordered around, and growls at Raidou, but suddenly turns and jumps into the thick greenery. In the direction of the other Outsiders.]

[eyescar]

[ The instinct to grab Raidou and run in the other direction is still there, but Yuji isn't sure how good of an idea that is when the effect of the pollen is still so obvious. Maybe he should've done something earlier, made sure he was taken care of, something like that, but... It's too late now...

His arm stays around Raidou, holding him gently and tucking him against the side of his body with a soft sigh. ]

You might have been, but that's not the point right now.

[ Yuji twitches, ready to tug them both away, but then... The big cat disappears into the forest, and he relaxes. ]

You shouldn't be hanging around out here alone.

[the_fourteenth]

It's okay. It would have been. I think-- I think it knows I want to protect them.

[He turns to Yuji, that seriousness still set in his eyes. Raidou simultaneously wants to push him away and pull him closer. Why does this keep happening? He hates it. But this is bigger than him, as always. This rainforest needs help.]

I-I wasn't-- effective in this fight. I think it's because this place needs help, not us attacking it. We keep doing so much harm, wherever we go.

[Every mission, he's afraid of wherever they go next turning into the next Seoul or Las Vegas or Brasov. The pollen is heightening that fear, but also aiming it towards all of the environment, not just the cities and their humans.]

It needs me! Look.

[He looks up, and vines from the canopy above swing down, snaking their way towards them. Not just the pollen, but Raidou had made a sacrifice at the temple altar that only strengthened this ability.]

[eyescar]

I still don't think hanging out alone in the forest is a good idea.

[ Yuji frowns, looking around. He feels awkward, somehow, on edge; it's not like this is her fault, but... He doesn't know what he should do, or how to get Raidou to listen to any kind of reason.

He's glad, suddenly, he didn't do anything at the altar. ]

Johei... Don't you think it's suspicious? I want to protect the jungle too, but... Isn't this like the pollen from last time?

[the_fourteenth]

[The vine gently snakes around Raidou's outstretched arm, into his hands, and he looks over it with curiosity. He up at Yuji again, still puzzled and irritated.]

What? No. Th-That was-- very different.

[Even now, in this state, his faces turns a little pink at the thought. It's not that different, because that want, that hunger, is starting to gnaw at him insides again. He just needs to keep focused. Remember why he's here, what he's really needed for, and not give in. For now.

All these warring feelings. He really hates it, especially when part of him knows Yuji is right. He shakes his head as if to clear it, a sending the vine back to the canopy.]

How is it-- If it's the pollen for some reason, then shouldn't you be-- Why isn't everyone affected?

🞂 001.

[blastedass]

Oy-!! [He instantly jerks his arm, hand slinging over Raidou's shoulder and unleashing an explosion raucously behind him. Orange light spills over the summoner's upper body, creating an eerie backlight framing his dark hat and steeled gaze. One Katsuki's seen far too many ties since he's come to know his friend. A fucking worm making him see his friends amid skin-searing sandstorms, the wolf's influence driving him crazy focused in the bloody castle hallways.

Now he has to deal with this bastard turning sides in a the middle of a fucking forest thanks to some giant ass pitcher plant with lips?! How many times are the kaiju going to go after their core like this?! Some shitty new tactic because they realized the Outsiders are kicking their fucking asses and not showing any signs of slowing down?

Tch. Gonna be like this again, huh.

*WHAM!*

Katsuki slams his forehead into Raidou's own, lips peeled back in a snarl despite pain exploding through his skull. OW! Shitty-naonobot-forehead!]

Getting fucking sick of your damsel in distress routine, Shashou!

[the_fourteenth]

[Poor Raidou. Maybe if he was more in touch with his own feelings or expressed them more freely, maybe the kaiju wouldn't find it easier to manipulate him. Food for thought later for him.

He's really not expecting to be headbutted, of all things. Unfortunately it probably does do more to Katsuki than Raidou, but he takes a step back, blinking in confusion and scowling.]

Who's a damsel in distress?

[That remark stings. For that, Raidou calls up some vines, grabbing at Katsuki's ankles to try and hold him in place as he puts more distance between the two of them.]

Speak for yourself. We can't keep damaging this jungle, don't you see?

[blastedass]

[People who are more open with their feelings are usually the ones who get suckered in! Far too many open points and vulnerable areas to shove into and mess around with. Closed off people with controlled emotions (or calloused shields) shouldn't be so damn easy to sucker!

...

As if Katsuki's gonna let Raidou use that excuse to turtle up again. He'll drag his emotional ass back out like he always does! As soon as he finishes reeling from his throbbing forehead. Fuck! He knew it was a shit gamble. Good thing he's got a stubborn skull. And it surprised Raidou. One out of two ain't bad.]

Looks like it's doing a great job damaging itself! [KA-BOOM! Vine shackles blast apart and Katsuki stalks forward from a smoking veil.] I'm not in the mood to be nice today, princess. If you're not gonna snap out of it, I'm gonna brain you.

[the_fourteenth]

[Or maybe a certain someone's facade isn't as air tight or controlled as he likes to think it is after all.]

Snap out of what?

[Now he's mad. The pollen already had him agitated, but now it's intensifying as he focuses on Katsuki.]

We can't let the environment be the victim in this fight! Hasn't enough of it been damaged in this world? When does it end?

[As Katsuki stalks closer, another vine snakes it way from the canopy above. But instead of going for him, Raidou raises a hand and grabs hold, and it swings him back and away from his friend before he gets too close.]

[blastedass]

[Katsuki would lean that direction when it comes to Raidou. He's put a lot of work into trying to help the summoner shed his steely armor and be more alive. Damn if he wants him retreating into that shell.]

Haa? The environment is trying to kill us, dumbass! [Look at the giant ass plant smashing around the temple, trying to crush and absorb anyone it comes across! Explosions burst and snap around his hand, red eyes narrowing within his mask.

Another vine?] Oy! Get back here, you ass! [Twin explosions ignite and he rockets after Raidou with a rush. Dammit, like hell is he letting him get away!] AP SHOT!

[A concentrated beam of explosion slams outward, trying to snipe the vine from Raidou's grip.]

[the_fourteenth]

It's only trying to kill us because we're here fighting it!

[He's trying to swing away, sending more vines Katsuki's way, but they're not strong like Raidou is. He rockets his way out of their grip as he fires a shot at the ones Raidou's holding. The vine snaps and Raidou falls, but he'll be saved from hitting the ground by some quick-moving vines, unless Katsuki decides to swoop in first. Either way, he lets out a quiet expletive, not really wanting to fight his friend, but it looks like he might have to.]

Just get out of here already!

[blastedass]

Don't fuck with me! It invaded this world first!

[Boom! kabOoM! BOMB!! Blasting his exploding pinball path across the sky, he dodges and twists around each attacking vine, slipping feet first through an attempted noose and destroying another thorned cluster before tossing backwards beneath Raidou. This bastard's got his brain all stuffed up with more influences! Katsuki doesn't attempt to catch the falling summoner, rather crashes three more explosions on the vines as the catch him instead, snapping the safety net and ridding himself of concnetrated enemies.

This time he catches Raidou's ankle and KA-BOOOM! blasts both their bodies sky high! Far past the canopy and tree line, hoping to stuff Raidou's head with clear air and clear him out with a flushed system!]

Breathe, Shashou! You're brain's fucked up!

[If this doesn't work, he's going for a nearby lake next...]

[the_fourteenth]

[Raidou's usually fast himself, but there's nothing much he can do when he's free falling and all available vines he was calling are severed. He's not exactly well-practiced with this temporary new ability anyway. There's a series of explosions, and the next thing he knows, he's dangling dozens of feet into the sky by his ankle. It certainly shuts him up for a few seconds anyway, til his pollen-addled brain catches up with what just occurred.]

K-Katsuki-kun! What're you--?!

[At least he has enough presence of mind to not say "put me down", or try to wrench himself free.]

Your brain's fucked up! Put me down!

[Still yelling, and he dropped a mocking f-bomb?! A dip in the lake is probably necessary at this rate. It takes a little more than some fresh air for 30 seconds to clear this stuff from your system, and a dive in some water helped him clear up his head last time the pollen did this to him.]