The Nameless Warrior's page

He blinked.

“It's not for me.” He answered, a slight tone of genuine confusion entering into his tone of voice as he spoke to the deity. Did Vulture King did not hear what he had just said? That had to be it, as from he had seen of the deity thus far, he wasn’t one to make such a clear and obvious misunderstanding. “He’s an Apogee Society member.” Nothing else needed to be said. There was no need for him to elaborate on the fact that information pointed towards this group as having been within a jail created by Apogee Society. Thus, being able to talk directly to someone from that society might be able to better confirm whenever or not this was actually true or not... and if so, why were their prisoners.

There was just no need for him to say it, as it was clearly obvious.

He didn’t even flinch as the explosion of negative energy washed over his body.

Where others may be slain or sent flying by the power of the Worm’s death. He stood firm, unwavering and unfaltering, even as the negative energy would reach into his body and drain his very soul. It was somewhat annoying when that happened, but he knew that he would be able to regain his strength in time... and it wasn’t like there were many creatures who were a threat to him, even in his weakened state either. The ‘fight’ against Roland proved that.

And on the subject of Roland... “Vulture King, do you have the power of resurrection?” He would query, projecting his voice towards the god as he turned in order to face him. “As I just encountered Roland King, lover of the Seer of the Apogee Society.”

Sooooo, I have Evasion, and I have an equivalent for Will Save that I forgot, meaning the worm hasn’t hurt me at all. Surprisingly though, I’m not actually immune to negative levels. Unless Mythic Saving Throws letting me ignore the effects of non-mythic effects I save against lets me dodge those negative levels.

He blinked.

Once... twice... before a great sigh would echo forth from his body.

“I got to stop doing that.” He grouched, shaking his head in frustration as the lamppost came spinning back to his hand. As he lifted up his hand to catch it, however, a thought swiftly came to mind... the Vulture King proclaimed himself to be a god, and from what he could tell, that was actually a true fact. And whilst it wasn’t always their domain, the power to bring the dead back to life was one of the most common of their abilities...

Okay, admittedly he himself had that power. But it tends to be rather draining, and he had the suspicion that the others might be quite interested to learn more about the Apogee Society, considering how they seemed to be linked to it. So it would be a much better use of his time for him to direct the Vulture King to the resurrection of the legendary gunslinger, and to do that, their current opponent would have to be dealt with. So as the lampost entered into his hand, he would use the momentum to swiftly redirect it and send it spinning towards that giant worm.

Reaper’s Momentum’s kicks in, allowing me to make a throwing attack against the Worm. Mythic Improved Cleaving Finish would then kick in, allowing me to make two extra attacks at this target, albeit at a -5 and -10 penalty.

Going full Deadly Aim for a -6 penalty to attack and a +18 bonus to damage.
Attack 1: 1d20 + 45 ⇒ (12) + 45 = 57 Damage: 4d6 + 107 ⇒ (2, 5, 1, 1) + 107 = 116
Attack 1: 1d20 + 40 ⇒ (17) + 40 = 57 Damage: 4d6 + 107 ⇒ (5, 5, 4, 5) + 107 = 126
Attack 1: 1d20 + 35 ⇒ (17) + 35 = 52 Damage: 4d6 + 107 ⇒ (1, 2, 4, 2) + 107 = 116

Unfortunate, but not exactly unusual. He knew that even with Roland’s apparent age, it was quite normal for people to cling tightly to some type of moral code. Some sense of honour and conduct, a grounding force to keep the endless march of time from driving them to insanity. Being that insanity quite frankly wasn’t the most enjoyable experience, he couldn’t exactly blame people for trying to avoid it either. As it was, he would just shrug in reply.

“Then I’ll have to convince Kammella to call you off.” Being that he would rather not deal with such a talented and experienced gunslinger after his head at this moment in time, he would flick his hand forwards. Launching the lamppost like a spear towards Roland’s head, fully intending on knocking him out so that other threats could be dealt with.

Standard Action: Vital Strike attack vs Roland. Greater Vital Strike means the 4d6 base damage is increased to 16d6, which Mythic Vital Strike takes and multipliers all my following damage by 16.

Throwing Attack: 1d20 + 51 ⇒ (11) + 51 = 62 Non-Lethal Damage: 16d6 + 1424 ⇒ (3, 4, 2, 4, 1, 4, 5, 5, 6, 5, 2, 1, 4, 3, 2, 1) + 1424 = 1476 Non-Lethal Sneak Attack Damage: 9d6 ⇒ (2, 1, 5, 2, 4, 1, 1, 3, 1) = 20 x16 = 320.

Roland King... now that was a name he knew.

A bounty hunter of legendary status, whose skill with firearms was respected not just within this word, but across multiple different worlds. Roland’s deeds and abilities were amongst some of the greatest of all times, even coming close to rivalling his own talents at times. Through with just how long it had been since he had come across a challenge that necessitated him to push himself to the very limit of his abilities, he honestly did not entirely know just where his limitations may lie. Hence it was quite difficult for him to gauge just how much of a challenge an opponent might be on their reputation alone.

As it was, however... there was a more important fact involved at this moment in time. “Roland King... lover of the Seer of Apogee...” He would muse, even as he seemed to flicker before the gunslinger’s eyes. The two bullets passing harmlessly through the warrior without harming him in the slightest. “Curious that Apogee Society appears again...” There was the possibility that this was a mere coincidence of course. That it was simple happenstance that Roland would be sent for his head, regardless of how the group he was travelling with seemed tied to the Apogee Society as well... but he very much doubted that this was the case. “Are you the type to never abandon a mission?”

Touch AC is 56, meaning that neither attack hits. My Will Save is also 48, meaning that I automatically make the save to half damage. I also have 10 Negative Energy Resistance, meaning that I reduce the damage taken down to 7.

... It was almost insulting honestly. How all these people sprung into action in order to fight against these shadows. The godling and the god fighting together, back to back against this deadly shadows, whilst the martial artist was battling against a giant worm that could devastate the city single-handedly if not stopped. All whilst more exploding skeletons fell from the sky to massacre its inhabitants... yet not once did they stop and actually ask him to help.

Then again, these individuals didn’t seem to have much, if any, knowledge about who he was, or how he operated. So quite frankly he couldn’t entirely blame them for this... and then again, even those people who did have knowledge of himself would probably struggle to understand what made him decide to step in and join a fight, and what made him decide not to do so. Hence why he wasn’t insulted by the fact that they hadn’t directly asked him for his aid. That, and he didn’t really care anyway.

Still... it seemed that this battle was not going to be without some interest... there always were people whom seemed invested in taking him out, and killing him for one reason or another. So when this cigar smoking, leather-jacket wearing Stranger turned up, ignoring the chaos and battle around them in order to focus entirely on him... calling him out and stating that he was out for his head. It was almost impressive how calm and brave he was. This Stranger undoubtedly knew his reputation, and from his own words, knew just how much of a challenge it would be to actually kill him... yet. The Stranger was still willing to try.

Hence, Nameless stood away from the wall he was leaning against. Grabbing the lamppost that was his weapon and resting it against his shoulder, as he replied to the question asked to him. “What is your name?” For those who challenged him, despite knowing who he was... Nameless liked to remember them.

He didn’t even flicker when portals opened up from above, and undead began to rain down from the sky.

From the explosions that followed, as well as the screaming, shouting and crying. It seemed that some of these undead exploded upon death. Doing even more damage to the city and its people, reflect the zealous nature of the being that had likely summoned them. It the gates hadn’t already been opened and many of its citizens already evacuated, then it was unlikely that many Al'Lamar’ citizens would survive. As it was through... it was quite likely that it was going to be a bloodbath. Especially if the necromantic powers that guided these undead to wreak havoc on the city below, was going to take those slain by the undead creatures, and raise them again as new warriors to fill the ranks.

Yet, he did nothing. Despite his tremendous reputation, despite the strength and might, he had at his fingertips. He did nothing. The plight of the city was nothing to him, and the allies he decided to watch over seemed strong and resilient. Enough to stand against the threat of this army, even if they were forced to retreat because of it. He had no reason to fight, these creatures could not even lay a single scratch on him, let alone prove to be a challenge in any way. No, he would stay, observing the Vulture King as well as Zaidel. Watching to see what they would do, curious about their strength, their power... and whenever or not one of them would remember him and ask for assistance.

When Zaidel would call out to him, suggesting that he should go and help Vulture King, that avain god that was somehow part of the group. He would just respond with a brief, flat, unimpressed look. As what else would he be doing at this in time? Exploring the city whilst everyone had evacuated, so there weren’t many people to get in his way or cause issue if he decided to go poking around some of the non-public buildings or shady areas?

... Okay, so he had done that from time to time, yes, but that wasn’t the point. The point was that he was with the group now, and there was the entire thing of Vulture King loudly declaring that he was putting the entire darn city under his protection for reasons that he just did not understand in the slightest... actually wait if the Vulture King did successfully protect the city, then as a god it was likely going to earn him a lot of notoriety and from that notoriety, worshipers. So he supposed he could understand the Vulture King’s motives, assuming that those motives were the correct ones that had prompted the Vulture King’s actions. If they weren’t... then he likely couldn’t understand the motives.

Motives aside. Vulture King had put the city under his protection, and being that he had no desire to see them die on him, when they had been giving him such tantalizing clues towards the history, the reason for his beyond-human ability and longevity, when he had been moving closer towards his purpose than ever before... so if one of them was going to get into a fight. He was going to be there to make sure they didn’t die.

Or at least, unless he got bored. And even then, he was only going to ensure they didn’t die. It didn’t mean he was automatically going to join every fight. Like this one, against this zealous Nightmare. There really was no interest here, so whilst the others would fight - Zaidel climbing a building, Bage launching a fire blast - he would lean against a house wall. Casually watching what was going on. Having no real desire to get involved unless completely and utterly necessary.

Hmmm.

In his experience, education and wealth tended to go hand in hand. The more educated the general public, the easier it was for them to gain wealth, and for the nation to flourish as well. So hearing that the Al'Lamar was a rich city, despite the fact it had banned learning and education of any kind was unusual. Through from what he had learned the ban had been within a single generation, so it undoubtedly meant that the wealth hadn’t been drained away fully yet.

That and the rumours of the Thieves Guild reporting directly to the nobles meant that most of the wealth was likely focused extremely heavily on the top of the people of the city. With the strange disappearances of young men potentially linked to the wealth of the city despite its lack of education. Admittedly there were hundreds of different reasons why young men could have vanished with the authority none the wiser. Hard to tell which one it was without further investigation, and he really didn’t see much reason to investigate any further into the matter.

Then a massive city suddenly appeared overhead. Followed by a giant figure flying out from it and shouting that it had judged the citizens of Al’Lamar and had found them guilty. With the punishment being death.

Whilst this announcement sent most people both within and without the city into a frenzy of fear and chaos, fleeing from the city as best they could and causing a huge crush. He stood still and just yawned. Seriously, these zealots never changed. Always hammering on about sin and purity and how only death could absolve people of sin yadda yadda yadda... if he didn’t have a group of people that might have an answer to his existence. He probably would have just turned around and walked the other way. Dealing with Zealots got old real fast.

But, he had a group. So when the gates were actually opened to let people through. He would walk against the flow. People either letting him past, or him being able to weave through the crowd with a skill and grace that bordered on unnatural, and was undoubtedly eerie to watch. His reliable and famous lamppost resting against his shoulder as he walked through the crowd. Spying the one known as Zaidel as he turned back away from the crowd and moved to follow after him. It was certain that he was moving to join up with the rest of the group, and once there he fully intended to learn how they wished to deal with this zealot.

Being that he had nothing to say in response to Liriiestil, he would stay silent during the rest of the trip towards the city. Admittedly several of the others teleported there, meaning that he would have to jog for a bit in order to catch up, but he didn’t mind the delay in the slightest. He liked having peace and solitude to mull over the situation he found himself within, and what it might mean for his purpose.

That, and he was curious about this land and its people. So he wouldn't go into the city upon arriving. Instead, after wrapping the lamp top so people wouldn’t be able to easily identify him. He would move through the camp, looking for information.

Diplomacy/Gather Info: 1d20 + 39 ⇒ (7) + 39 = 46

Not for the first time, he found himself having to re-evaluate one of the beings of this odd party he found himself within. He had thought that this Alyssa was a bit self-delusional due to how... insistent she had been in regards to the fact that the current goings-on was a dream. However, not only did she have a strong philosophical argument for such a case. She actually managed to come up with a strong reasoning as to how to accept evidence of how this might not be a dream, as well as being willing to risk the use of a wish in order to test her theory...

And then being able to accept the result. Noting that whilst it was possible that she was still dreaming, it was now much more unlikely then it had been previously. Quite impressive, not many people that he knew off could make such an argument, whilst also be willing to accept the results. A blend of intelligence and wisdom that he found sorely lacking far, far too often...

It was pleasant, these continuous surprises. Though when the offer was made to just teleport them to the city, he would shake his head, saying. “Not a fan of magic unless necessary. Plus you never know which cities might have anti-teleportation wards around it or something.”

It seemed that the group had decided that travel was the best option, heading to the nearby city and hopefully the library there to help find some answers. It wasn’t the worst idea in the world, and quite frankly he couldn’t be bothered to see if any old contacts of his could be of aid at the moment. So instead, he decided to just tag along with them, see what the might turn up. Honestly, it had actually been a while since he had just taken a back seat and just gone for the ride.

Kinda refreshing that the others weren’t freaking out about his reputation. Even if he was rather sure that the fey-lord-guy was the only one that actually knew his reputation at the moment... oh well. Of course, when they began discussing the fact that not all of them had given away the Hydra eggs away to the Lady of the Woods and were actually looking forward to raising them, he decided to put forward his own thoughts. “Personally Hydras aren’t all that difficult to raise. Size and heads aside, their just an animal. Raising a child on the other hand... now that’s a challenge.” Which, was a bit ironic for him to say, considering they soon started bantering about sex and virility and the like... through he decided not to add anything else himself. He... didn’t like talking about certain material if he wasn’t asked.

Hmmm. It seemed that the... godling, was it? Had a bit of an adverse reaction to explosives, if the fact that his instinct to the thrown bomb was to protect the female who so far seemed to be the weakest of the party.

Seemed anyway. He didn’t doubt for a second she did not have abilities of her own, it was just a matter of her coming to realise them herself.

Either way, it was still information that was taken and filed away for future use. What this future use might be precisely was uncertain, as it was extremely difficult to plan for the future. But it could be useful to give him a warning next time he needed to use a bomb for example... or us it to help cover a potential escape if he ended up opposed to the group in some form or another. And that was just the two first examples that popped into his head, there was likely many, many more.

Regardless, it seemed that some of the others were approaching him down, asking a very obvious question... to which, he had no answer. “No idea.” He replied honestly when he was asked just exactly who he was. His voice was deep and powerful. As if it was used to speak in royal courts, or communicating across battlefields instead of simple fields like this one. Still, his voice had a slight scratchy husk to it, as if it had been a while since he had used it. “I have a reputation - your friend Liriiestil might have heard of it, or perhaps the army you have now - but it doesn’t tell me who I am.” Casually shrugging away the fact he had admitted that he had little idea who he was despite the fact that his previous actions made it clear that he knew about his reputation very well. He turned to the second question: “As for the lamp. A normal weapon got too boring. Decided to grab a lamppost out of the side of the road and use it instead. See if it would be a better challenge.” He would then scratch the side of his neck as he glanced off sideways into space. “I think that was say... Two, three thousand years ago now? Something like that I think. After a while people just got so used to it I decided I might as well keep it around.” There was a pause before the very faintest curling upwards graced his lips. “Plus I still get a vague semblance of amusement when I defeat an ancient embodiment of evil or a holy paragon of holiness with a simple lamp post.” Pause, shrug and turn back to the others. “The evil ones tend to have the better reactions. All those tears, sobbing and wailing of the holy tend to get dull.”

It was always satisfying when his mere presence was enough to make people run in terror. Admittedly it seemed that this Kamii had been keeping watch of the fight itself, meaning that as soon as he appeared he called his forces ASAP, instead of the Balor himself retreating. Which was slightly disappointing, but not enough to negate the immense satisfaction that his reveal was enough to make the demons run like hell.

Pun intended.

Still, one of the demons seemed to fail their attempt to teleport away, whilst the mental magic that was manipulating the Saiyan was still in control. Nothing that he couldn’t deal with, of course, just mildly irritating that he did. Still, he had committed himself to aiding this group now, so he would aid them fully. A few moments of consideration was all that he needed to figure out what to do. Digging into his pockets, he swiftly pulled out the miscellaneous material that he needed to swiftly construct a bomb. One that he lit and threw off... not at the Marilith, but to the side of it. So it was caught in the blast but the Elf wasn’t.

Not that he was worried about catching the Elf mind you. But the Marilith clearly wanted to get away, but it was summoned so it had to obey its orders... so he decided to try and dispel the magic that was holding her here instead of just smacking her down. Not to mention he had found that the explosions of bombs and firearms were surprisingly useful in helping others clear their heads.

Using one of my Nine Bombs to make a Dispel Bomb. Marilith is subject to 9 points of Fire damage as well as a CL 30 Dispel Magic. Mythic Ability Clear Your Heads kicks in. My spending one Mythic Point, I can make a CL 23 Dispel Magic vs a Mind-Affecting effect within 30ft, that being the Charm on Bage. If the effect is Non-Mythic, my caster level is increased to 33.

Well now. This was interesting.

Sure, Kami had already proven himself to be a creature of significant influence to have so many spies following this group. As well as being a being of immense ambition in order to risk the wrath of a Demon Princess, let alone one as powerful as Kanzen was. Yet he had not imagined that his influence was so great that not only did he have a Balor within his back-pocket, or at least a Balor who owned him a great favour. But a Balor who was likely one of the oldest and most powerful demons to exist, and a champion of a dark deity...

Well. Whilst his curiosity was already piqued by this group, by the story that the Lady had shared and the unusual familiarity that he had with these places, names and stories they were so willing and free to discuss and share with one another. The fact that a being of such power - or at least influence - was arranging himself against the group was quite attention-grabbing indeed. Regardless of whenever or not this group actually lead to the answers that he so desperately sought, it was likely going to be a worthwhile endeavour to linger and see how the situation would develop.

Besides, these beings were quite strong. A being with divine power from within, two strong martial artists, a sharpshooter, a mage and a swordsman's... oh and an invincible dude. So, he settled down to watch them fight. To battle against this new threat that arranged itself against them. Though neither the orge squad that they had convinced to work for them nor these... divine warriors stepped in to help. Meaning that he was getting a strong gauge of their abilities and capabilities. They were strong, ferocious fighters for certain...

But evidently. Not strong enough.

Blow after blow rained down on Zaidel, slipping past his defences to cut into his flesh and skin. The Marilith’s blows were swift and deadly, for sure to cut the swordsman down as he stood. Yet, as that final blow came swinging round, as the blade glistening in a deadly, silver, arc. A blur shot out of nowhere in order to intercept the attack. Knocking the weapon clean out of the Marilith’s hand. No, more than that, the blade span round to slam its handle into the Marilith’s skull, even as an object that had slammed into its hand span back, away from the demon and the swordsman...

And into the waiting hand of a new warrior on the field. A tall, toned figure with tanned, weathered skin and cold, blue eyes. Simple brown robes covered his form as he relaxed the weapon against his shoulders... save it was not a weapon he had thrown. But a simple lamp post, taken from its purpose and used as a weapon. Finally revealing himself, he spoke to the Balor in a calm, measured voice.

“Tell me Wendonai, Father of the Drow. Do you know who I am?”

Cunning Intuition > Ranged Disarm + Greater Called Shot. Disarm Check: 1d20 + 53 ⇒ (7) + 53 = 60 > Twirling Disarm. Non-Lethal: 2d6 ⇒ (6, 4) = 10.

Aura of Fear. All foes within 85ft must make a DC 38 Will save or have their fear effect increased by one step.

When Joseph made a wish that included the phrase ‘we were all’, he swiftly hit the deck. Sure, there was always the chance that this ring of wishes wasn’t going to transport himself as well... but long experience had taught him that wishes were b*@!#es, and they weren’t to be taken lightly in the slightest. Hence keeping low to the ground in order to avoid notice if he was brought along for the ride.

A precaution that seemed to pay off quite well it seemed, as he was indeed teleported along, and was capable of learning more about the world and these people. There wasn’t too much information, more of Alyssa’s denial of the possibility that this was real, as well as the fact that Joseph had only been gone for a few decades and was still emotionally unstable through this entire affair. Still, the fact that Joseph had only been gone for a few decades put the Lady of the Wood’s story into stark contrast with this fact... not that it meant it wasn’t possible, as this prison could have been repurposed by others since the Apogee Society collapsed. But it was important to note all the same...

As was the revelation that this ‘Kami’ had many, many spies and was tracking the group carefully. That was curious for sure, and it made him wonder just how powerful this Kami figure actually was, what other allies he might have... and whenever or not he could actually present a challenge to him.

It had been a long time since he had a challenge, and the thought excited him almost as much as this strange situation did!

... He wasn’t entirely sure what to think about this entire situation.

There were so many different elements involved. The Lady’s explanation did make sense, a significant amount of sense for certain, but he wasn’t sure that he believed that it was entirely true. He didn’t go as far as Alyssa did, and discarded the situation completely... but at the same time, he knew that he was more than likely going to have to look into the situation in greater detail. To look into the Apogee Society, and whenever or not they actually did have a magic-less planet as a rehabilitation planet. To find out just how much of the Lady’s words were true... and how much of them were false.

But that was only the tip of the iceberg.

This... Kami of theirs. Not only was he the one that summoned them, looking for a key that could unlock any lock. Claiming without too much reason for suspicion that he was attempting to access a demiplane where the essence of a dead god rested, in order to free his sister from her prison. But he had made... enemies. Powerful. Powerful enemies.

Kanzen. Demon Lord of Kilk’Ill, Princess of the Jaaku. Even one like himself would hesitate to have someone like her as an enemy. If it came to a straight out fight, he was rather confident that he would be able to defeat her. But Demon Lords rarely fought fair, especially when going against threats that they themselves respected. Hence why her mere presence was more than enough to put him on edge. The fact that the party sought her out as an ally, and willingly made a deal with her made further confused matters. In all likelihood, they did not actually realise her true nature. That they simply saw her as a being of power, and not a being of infernal might. Otherwise, they would not have made her into an ally.

Yet... he could not be certain about that, and that was worrying. They were acting in an unpredictable fashion, despite how he had believed he had been getting a strong read on their personalities leading up to this revelation. Especially not when they did not just reason with the Ogre squadron sent after them but actually swayed them to work for themselves instead. Albeit at the rate of twice as much pay as Kami had been offering them. Neither did the spontaneous appearance of what seemed to be magical rings on their persons exactly ease his nerves in regards to this group...

They were different than anything he had ever come across before...

... It took him quite a while to realise that what he was feeling wasn’t anxiety.

It was excitement. There was no question about it anymore: He was going shadow this group, no matter what they did.

So... Earth was... a Prison?

It did make sense, considering the raw power, fighting prowess and skilled tongues that he had witnessed so far. He could understand why... some of the members could be considered rather dangerous, and in need of control or punishment if their crimes were severe enough. Doubly so if the prison was created and maintained by the Apogee Society as a rehabilitation centre... if any civilization had the ability to make an entire, artificial world as a prison, it was them for sure.

Yet... yet he couldn’t help but rebel against the idea. Rebel against the idea that this ‘Earth’ was nothing more than a prison. That all of the legends, myths and stories that had been crafted within that world were actually memories of the other realities gleaned through their dreams. That all of its people, all of its farmers, builders, warriors, crafters and leaders were either criminals going through rehabilitation, or simply made up by the Apogee Society entirety. As much sense as it made... he couldn’t accept it. Not even a single iota of his being allowed him to accept this as the truth.

Nor did he know why... through with one theory, that was rapidly becoming stronger in how true it may be: That he was somehow linked to this Earth. That he himself had gone through the rehabilitation process before he awoke with no memory and no purpose. It would explain why his emotions were stirring now once more, despite being dead for aeons... and yet, it wouldn’t explain why he was taken out of that world. Why he was removed from it, and what his purpose was...

Through, he had a theory... this world... this Earth... was a world without magic. Completely devoid of it in fact. So much so, that the magical bleed off from the previously very powerful magical beings was enough to lead towards the creation of an entirely new god... and perhaps not even the only one, though he had no way of knowing that himself. He... he wasn’t able to wield magic. He had tried: He has studied it for many years as a wizard, yet he was never able to perform even the simplest of cantrips. Whilst he was a skilled alchemist in his own right, he hadn’t even been able to use the powerful and temporary extracts that other alchemists were able to... heck, he had trained as both a monk and a ninja, yet had never been able to tap into the power of Ki.

Meaning... meaning that this body. This form, despite being far stronger, tougher, swifter, smarter and wiser than your average human being... was one from this Earth... and if that was the case... if he was superior to normal humans... was he meant to play the role as a jailer? Was he the jailer off Earth? The one that was meant to ensure that the rehabilitation process went smoothly and that nobody was able to infiltrate it to extract prisoners before their time? Or perhaps just kill them? He... he just didn’t know. It made sense, but he didn’t know...

What he did know, however, was that this story was only just beginning. Not just because the group he was linked with, were being summoned by Merlin himself... but also, and perhaps more importantly. There was talks of a Seal... and it was linked to the Apogee Society... The Great Sin of the Gods of Weal... there was only one seal that he could recall that was linked to the Apogee Society... if this theory was true... well. Well well well... it would certainly make things... interesting...

Through it was also amusing where he, the guy who had no memory or purpose for aeons, did not wish to reject Earth as simply being a prison. Whilst most of the group seemed quite willing to accept it very easily. Especially Joseph. Wasn’t he shouting about having a sister he needed to get back to, not even an hour ago? Talk about a swift turn around.

Regardless, he made his decision. He would see if he could talk to the Lady of the Woods alone... and follow the group to Merlin. Wherever Merlin was.

As the group stepped into the portal, he followed after them. His skill, and experience with fading into the background around him having been sharpened to such an extent, that he needed no cover or darkness to hide. Nor did magic and un-humaniod senses have any extra capability of spotting him compared to human eyes or ears. Although sneaking into an entire court of Fey and Elves without ever being found... well, he had done similar feats before after all.

Regardless, it seemed that there was at least some information to be gleaned from this visit. Whilst John Smith denied it, the Lady of the Woods seemed to recognize him, naming him as Liriiestil, an elven king who was favoured by the Lantern King himself... and then realising something about what was going on after the denial...

It was quite curious really, hence why he stayed within the edges of the clearing, waiting to see what else might be revealed about this group... whilst recalling what he could about this Lantern King.

Relevant Knowledge: 2d20 ⇒ (7, 11) = 18 = 11 + 45 = 56

Hmpth, he was starting to see the patterns between the beings now, how they reacted and what personalities they had.

The only female of the bunch... whose name he believed to be was Alyssa, seemed to be the most fragile, physically and emotionally of the group. Your typical kind-hearted maiden that cowed at the first sign of danger. Non to impressive, and likely not going to be much of a help in this quest.

Then there was this ‘Joseph’ fellow... quite frankly, it was going to be a surprise if he managed to survive for long. Emotionally, panicky and unreliable to a fault. He had done nothing but cause issue and chaos within this group, and it was a surprise they hadn’t straight up abandoned him yet... but perhaps he could change and surprise him. It was unlikely, but not impossible.

Bage and Zaidel were very similar in that they very much enjoyed strength and power, and enjoyed combat despite the risks that came with it. Very good, though he was uncertain about whenever or not they would be a challenge to someone of his own strength or skill. Not that it mattered too much, they likely had the capability become strong enough to do so eventually. Perhaps even give him a reason to keep growing stronger.

Liriiestil was the face of the group. Far the best at keeping a level head, and persuading people to side with them. A powerful being whose tongue was so sharp that it was almost a surprise that it did not use magic... he was basically the leader from what he could see, though it seemed that the group had not yet officially nominated him as said leader so far.

Kei seemed very polite and reserved. A strong-ish fighter, if the battle against the hydra was much to go by, but there wasn’t much to say about him in terms of personality. He was just... there.

There was the Vulture King, an old deity finally given flesh. A being that very much enjoyed his power and was seeking out further worship in order to strengthen himself in this new reality. He seemed practical, through proud. Helping others with the expectation of getting something out of it, even as something as tangible as a pray... through of course, defensive about his divinity, as old gods were oft to do.

It was ironic, then. That Lucas seemed to act as the oldest, and perhaps the wisest of the group. Sure, he foolishly believed in honour, but he could not blame the old man for that, as many people did the same. He was good at keeping a level head, yet swift to act when it was necessary to do so. All in all, a good leader as well, though perhaps he would serve best as an advisor and secondary leader to Liriiestil...

Still, no reason for him to approach them just yet, despite having a solid grasp of their character. More information, so that he could better predict, anticipate and control them as needed. Besides, it had been a while since he had been a hunter... and his ‘prey’ was always fun to hide from! Of course, he had another challenge soon approach him. The elven guard seemed rather insistent on the fact that they had to name themselves in order to be allowed access to the Lady’s domain. Being that he had not revealed himself, nor did he even have a name, he might be forced to reveal himself...

Not wanting to do that yet, however, he would study this portal and the area around it. Knowing that his long experience had allowed him to find, and study magical auras to see what they are... and if there are any magical sensors in the area.

Using Heightened Awareness/Magehunter’s Vision from the Scout Sphere to gain information on the magic before me. As well as Sense and Resist Scrying to see if there are any magical sensors.
Perception: 2d20 ⇒ (16, 20) = 36 Natural 20 + 48 = 68

Hmm... this was an odd group, that was for certain. Some of them devolving into shouting and screaming in order to get their way, on the verge or flat out panicking already in regards to the unusual situation they found themselves within. Whilst others actually seemed happy with the circumstances they are found in, embrace this new life they there now had, instead of the old life they had before... as far as he could tell, it seemed they all believed themselves to have died, and have now been reborn within these lands and bodies.

Curious for certain, but unless he somehow was reborn, aeons before the others were... on top of amnesia, there was no connection possible between himself and this group. Not that he was discounting that possibility either. These worlds, these planes, they were all too... numerous and bizarre for him to fully discount any possibility. Hence why he decided to shadow them for now. Not introducing himself to them just yet, both because he would be able to glean more information as an observer rather than part of their group... and because he desired to see just what they were capable of doing.

And it seemed that Nameless rather swiftly had the chance to find out what they would be doing, after a bit of arguing and frustration as to where to go that nearly had two of them wandering off on their own. Not only was there the identification of an Opiate Orange, which proved that their transformation had given them knowledge of this world at least, but they soon found themselves fighting against an eleven-headed Hydra. A challenge for sure.

Except, it was no challenge to them at all. The ‘Japanese’ man named Kei managed to artfully dodge an attack from it, and slice a head off with a powerful blow. More intriguing, however, was the ‘gentleman’ calling himself Lucas. His rapid barrage of four shots cut down the beast with lighting speed, defeating it before it could properly strike against the foe. He was definitely one to watch in case he had to fight...

Oh and there was also a powerful mage of some description, or perhaps just a someone who was a dragon that transformed themselves to look fey... hard to tell honestly.

Regardless, they took on the threat with remarkable speed and potency. Perhaps, if he was revealed... he should test them further and see what they were truly capable of.

Stealth: 2d20 ⇒ (10, 18) = 28 18+42 = 60 to stay hidden

When the artefact, the Key, finally arrived. He tensed up, hand ready to throw his weapon, legs ready to launch himself forwards out from the shadows he lurked. When someone that was not Kamii grasped the Key first, however, he was surprised. Then amused as the discussion swiftly became a debate. It seemed that this group was even more divided and split than he had anticipated. Some people wanting answers before handing over the Key, and wanting more information about what Kamii wanted to do with it. Whilst others believed in the lies of honour and trust, wanting to hand the Key over as had been the deal.

Either way, he remained tense and ready to make his move. Waiting to see how else the situation might evolve from here on out. There was one thing for sure though - if they attempted to hand the Key over to this Kamii, he would attack. Kamii was not getting the Key until he decided he would get it.

He had been awake for some time now and had already removed himself from the group and into the shadows.

It was unusual yes, but not the strangest waking up that he ever experienced. Broken voices in his head, like a weak and tentative sending spell that had only just managed to reach him. Foggy and dark memories of just what he had been up to during the stretch of time that had led to him arriving at this location... not that unusual considering how much he drank. To blunt, waking up in an unknown situation, amongst a group of strangers, and having no idea how exactly he had arrived there, was a situation that occurred pretty much once a week for him.

This time, however... this time. There was something... different about this group.

It wasn’t the fact that they themselves didn’t know what how they got here, as that was pretty common in these situations. It wasn’t the fact that they seemed to be in different forms than others, as that had happened before in circumstances like this. Nor was it the fact that these changes seemed to make some enthusiastic and happy, whilst others were deeply upset, almost on the verge of panic, and a wide diverse of reactions were part of the parcel with these experiences...

No... it was how... familiar they were, yet he knew for a fact that he had never seen anything like them before in his life. Like, the one who dubbed himself as Bage... the odd armour he wore, in conjunction with the device he wore over his eye... it was like nothing he had ever seen. Yet he knew them, and in fact, there was a sense of... Fondness? Happiness? Mirth? Or perhaps a combination of all three, that he felt upon observing him. And this... ‘He-Man’, and the way he held the sword above his head, shouting ‘I HAVE THE POWER’ brought that feeling of mirth bubbling up even more, as well as admonishment that he wasn’t doing it right... doing what right?! Then there was the young lad commenting that they were talking Japanese... a language that he knew, yet had never heard of before!

And when this... ‘He-Man’ began talking about where they were. Talking about Pathfinder as well as Dungeons and Dragons... there was just this... itch. This itch on the back of his head. An itch that couldn’t scratch and nearly had himself giving away his position in frustration until the appearance of the odd black-robbed boy finally distracted him. Now, this, this was something he was very familiar with... and he quite frankly could not believe that this group of people just agreed to the magic ritual to find this artefact. Despite having no reason to believe him and that he would keep his promise...

Still. A ritual to break barriers and wards... and a voice asking for him to make sure a seal was not destroyed? He had no reason to do so, beyond curiosity. These people, whoever they were, whatever this... ‘earth’ was... it was so achingly familiar, familiar in a way that he had never known before... so whilst the ritual continued, he prepared himself and his lamppost. Waiting for when the ritual would end and the artefact arrived...

Then he would take it for himself, and get more answers than this Kamii was currently offering.

Stealth: 2d20 ⇒ (8, 6) = 14+42 = 8+42 = 50

The Nameless Warrior reporting in.

Also I just finished reading Department 19: Darkest Night, and I'm about to start Sunless Sea.

Here is Arawn's Background. As not much is needed, I only did the first step of a 10 minute, instead of the entire thing. Oh and this is Fury of the Tempest's submission.

- Born and raised amongst orcs, instead of humans or other civilized races. Thus grew up in a much more chaotic, brutal and hedonistic lifestyle.

- Discovered their talent for magic at an early age, and began shaping it into a weapon to fight as soon as they could. They never dove straight into mastering the magic alone through, due to the orcish nature of their community.

- Not having the size or reach of other orcs, their fighting style shifted to throwing weapons in order to counter this difference. Aiming to slay enemies before they got close, yet still having a weapon on hand in case things went wrong.

- Left the orcish community at 25ish years old, realising that they were maturing and growing slower than the orcs were, and didn’t want to spend their entire life with several generations of family. On top of that, they felt that they had a much greater calling for their destiny.

- After many, many years of wandering and adventuring, they eventually settled down. Their adventures having brought them to help people, more than focus on their own delight, and the power of inspiring others instead of just solving the issue themselves. However, when the Kaiju came, they picked up the Starknife’s in order to fight. Taking up the Mantle of Immortality to regain their lost strength and vigour, whilst following Desna’s Order of the Shooting Star in order to gain even greater fighting capability.

Arawn Starblooded, Reporting in.

Fury of the Tempest, reporting in with my character.

The background isn't that long, especially compared to the others. But I believe I managed to distill the essence of my character down into the short background. This REALLY tells you who Temeraire is and why he's against the gods.

Alright. Posting as my first Alais. This is Fury of the Tempest posting with his complete character. Hopefully the background is good enough.