Midnight Erebus
Midnight Erebus (a.k.a. Shadow Wolf)
Physical Description
General Physical Condition
Halfway point between ectomorph and mesomorph.
Body Features
Covered in black and silver fur. Fluffy long tail. He has a frostbite scar over his heart in the shape of a hand where fur no longer grows.
Facial Features
Naturally fierce look
Wolf-head
Physical quirks
Midnight's resting face is relatively aggressive, making him come across as always a bit angry. Something that can be jarring in day to day conversation as his actual feelings don't usually match this.
Special abilities
Invocations
Declare - 0 AP - (Gained from Shadow Demon)
Wraths
Shadow Smite (Fiery Avenger) - 1 AP
Shadow Tendril Strike (Thunderous Word) - 2 AP
Shadowwhip (Lawbringer) - 3 AP
Inquiries
Evil Eye - 1 AP
Shadowseek - 3 AP
Wards
Rebuke (Transmuted from Impression) - 1 AP
Hunter
Track
Shadow Seperation (Farshot) - 1 AP
Shadow Rend (Deadeye)
Story and Song
Folk Song (Transmuted From Soul Gaze)
Rift Travel & Stitching
Riftymetry - 4 AP
Pathfinder - 4 AP
Specialties
Hope in Darkness
Legendaries
Shadow Demon - 10 AP
Declare - 0 AP - (Gained from Shadow Demon)
Once per scene, you may declare a reason for intervening in a matter, steeling your resolve. The reason should be based on your ideal (p. 26) and the scene's context. For example, if you believe in order, you might tell highway robbers they're breaking the law. Or if you believe in honor, you might say there's no honor among thieves.
Choose one result:
■ You immediately make a successful basic attack on a nearby foe.
■ You compel an NPC to explain what they are doing (they may lie to you).
■ You convince commoners to leave.
Choose one result:
■ You immediately make a successful basic attack on a nearby foe.
■ You compel an NPC to explain what they are doing (they may lie to you).
■ You convince commoners to leave.
Wraths
Shadow Smite (Fiery Avenger) - 1 AP
(Shrouds weapon in shadowy aura instead of flame)
Phrase: "Feed the shadows"
You speak the phrase of power, igniting your weapon in a magical flame of any color. While the weapon is on fire, it acts as a torch that casts light nearby. The flame increases the weapon's damage by 1. The flame persists until you roll a failure or worse on an attack with the weapon. You may dismiss the flame at any time.
Phrase: "Feed the shadows"
You speak the phrase of power, igniting your weapon in a magical flame of any color. While the weapon is on fire, it acts as a torch that casts light nearby. The flame increases the weapon's damage by 1. The flame persists until you roll a failure or worse on an attack with the weapon. You may dismiss the flame at any time.
Shadow Tendril Strike (Thunderous Word) - 2 AP
Summons a dark tendril that smashes into targets in front of him instead of the shockwave.
Word: Crash
You speak the word of power, releasing a thunderous shockwave in the direction you are facing. The wave knocks up to three creatures backward and hits them each for 2 damage. Creatures affected by the spell are briefly dazed and cannot use special abilities during their next turn.
Word: Crash
You speak the word of power, releasing a thunderous shockwave in the direction you are facing. The wave knocks up to three creatures backward and hits them each for 2 damage. Creatures affected by the spell are briefly dazed and cannot use special abilities during their next turn.
Shadowwhip (Lawbringer) - 3 AP
Forms the Shadow Tendrils around an arm. Treated like a whip one-handed weapon rather than hammer.
You raise your hand to the sky and summon a spectral warhammer into your grip. The hammer is a one-handed weapon that deals 3 damage. It appears to crackle with blue-green light and leaves a deep, reverberating sound in its wake. If you roll a triumph when using the hammer, it releases a crackling boom and casts your Thunderous Word spell on the target. The hammer vanishes in smoke after one hour or when you dismiss it.
You raise your hand to the sky and summon a spectral warhammer into your grip. The hammer is a one-handed weapon that deals 3 damage. It appears to crackle with blue-green light and leaves a deep, reverberating sound in its wake. If you roll a triumph when using the hammer, it releases a crackling boom and casts your Thunderous Word spell on the target. The hammer vanishes in smoke after one hour or when you dismiss it.
Inquiries
Evil Eye - 1 AP
You pause, closing your eyes and quieting your mind. You sense the worst thing that ever happened nearby. The Guide will describe to you the type of thing that happened and what the people involved look like. For example, you might learn that someone was murdered, a curse was created, or an evil vow was taken.
Shadowseek - 3 AP
You seek the location of a specific creature or object by projecting your consciousness into a shadow plane (p. 33). You must know what your target looks like.
20: You glimpse the target in real time and can see its nearby surroundings. If it is a creature, you may speak to them for 1 minute. They cannot see you, but they hear you in their mind. If you touch them, they feel a faint sensation, as if a breeze passes through them.
11-19: You glimpse the target in real time, can see its surroundings, and may watch it for the next minute.
6-10: You briefly glimpse the target and can see its surroundings, but you don't know if you're seeing it in the present moment.
2-5: You walk the shadow plane for 1 minute, finding only darkness.
1: You walk in darkness. If you were searching for an enemy, they see you instead, learning your exact location
20: You glimpse the target in real time and can see its nearby surroundings. If it is a creature, you may speak to them for 1 minute. They cannot see you, but they hear you in their mind. If you touch them, they feel a faint sensation, as if a breeze passes through them.
11-19: You glimpse the target in real time, can see its surroundings, and may watch it for the next minute.
6-10: You briefly glimpse the target and can see its surroundings, but you don't know if you're seeing it in the present moment.
2-5: You walk the shadow plane for 1 minute, finding only darkness.
1: You walk in darkness. If you were searching for an enemy, they see you instead, learning your exact location
Wards
Rebuke (Transmuted from Impression) - 1 AP
You utter a righteous word or phrase in the direction of a nearby creature that is approaching you during that creature's turn. (The creature cannot already be within reach.) You release a spectral clone of yourself that rushes them, knocks them back several meters, deals 1 damage, and ends their turn. The clone then disappears.
Hunter
Track
0 AP - When you find tracks, you can instantly identify the type of creature
that left them. If it is an animal, the Guide will share a fact that you know about them, like their habits or personality traits.
1 AP - You can pick up on the trail of an animal of your choice even if there are no tracks nearby, as long as it is native to the environment you're currently in. You must choose a type of animal to find, like a boar or a squirrel. (You can't use this to find a specific creature.) You find the creature after a short search.
1 AP - You can pick up on the trail of an animal of your choice even if there are no tracks nearby, as long as it is native to the environment you're currently in. You must choose a type of animal to find, like a boar or a squirrel. (You can't use this to find a specific creature.) You find the creature after a short search.
Shadow Seperation (Farshot) - 1 AP
You separate a piece of your shadow and project it over a long distance. Using this shadow a ranged attack can be made on a faraway target that you can see using shadow magic to facilitate it.
Shadow Rend (Deadeye)
0 AP - Whenever you roll a 20 with a shadow weapon you can name a specific limb on a creature to hit with your attack. The limb becomes disabled and cannot be used until it is restored by a healer.
3 AP - You focus your senses to better control your shadow magic, automatically scoring a triumph with a shadow weapon on a nearby creature or object that you target. The hit disables the targeted limb.
3 AP - You focus your senses to better control your shadow magic, automatically scoring a triumph with a shadow weapon on a nearby creature or object that you target. The hit disables the targeted limb.
Story and Song
Folk Song (Transmuted From Soul Gaze)
2 AP - You sing a song that kindles strong feelings in NPCs nearby. (The song has no effect on hostile creatures.)
Read or sing the chorus of a song at the table and describe your performance. You may write your own or use one from another songwriter. Choose a mood to set for your audience:
BRIGHT. Hearts swell with friendly enthusiasm, sparking joyful conversations. SOMBER. The audience falls silent and begins a sorrowful reflection on their suffering. PROUD. Zealous feelings are ignited, making the crowd noisy and excitable.
Read or sing the chorus of a song at the table and describe your performance. You may write your own or use one from another songwriter. Choose a mood to set for your audience:
BRIGHT. Hearts swell with friendly enthusiasm, sparking joyful conversations. SOMBER. The audience falls silent and begins a sorrowful reflection on their suffering. PROUD. Zealous feelings are ignited, making the crowd noisy and excitable.
Rift Travel & Stitching
Riftymetry - 4 AP
Negates the need for a roll to safely navigate a rift.
Pathfinder - 4 AP
Roll to discern a safe path. If successful, explain the path ahead.
Specialties
Hope in Darkness
Midnight has gained a great deal of practice with his shadow abilities and has greater freedom in the shape and form his shadows can take.
In addition having acquired an Amethyst Tooth of Hope, as long as he has the ring with the tooth it will slowly absorb excess energy from his shadow magic and store it away.
For each AP he spends on shadow magic, he gains 1 Hope, up to a max of 10. These Hope Points can be spent on various effects.
X Hope: Midnight draws power out of the ring for a agility feat of shadow magic, avoiding an attack against him. X is the damage being negated.
2 AP: Midnight draws power out of the ring for a quick show of power, allowing him to take an additional action on his turn. On a successful roll of 11 or higher you can use this to do another simple task that could be done such as attack, block, grab or other simple actions.
5 Hope: Midnight triggers his transformation into Moonlight Gale. This form gives a massive boost in physical ability, and a living fur cloak that can be used as a weapon. In this form Midnight's shadow magic can be used with no cost and with even greater control, even at range.
X Hope: Midnight draws power out of the ring for a agility feat of shadow magic, avoiding an attack against him. X is the damage being negated.
2 AP: Midnight draws power out of the ring for a quick show of power, allowing him to take an additional action on his turn. On a successful roll of 11 or higher you can use this to do another simple task that could be done such as attack, block, grab or other simple actions.
5 Hope: Midnight triggers his transformation into Moonlight Gale. This form gives a massive boost in physical ability, and a living fur cloak that can be used as a weapon. In this form Midnight's shadow magic can be used with no cost and with even greater control, even at range.
Legendaries
Shadow Demon - 10 AP
Part of Midnight's very soul is formed from a creature that feeds off of fear and darkness. It shares his goals at a whole because it IS him, but at the same time as a mass of primordial magic and emotion there is a certain lack of care and subtlety that it lacks without his physical aspect.
As part of this he gains access to "Declare" (Pg. 42). However it must be used in some in some intimidating or fear inducing way.
In addition there is potential for him to transform into his inner demon given a high enough stress scenario where there is a large focus of fear on a particular individual or area as his demon half consumes the emotional energy and potentially begins to overwhelm his physical body.
10 AP: Midnight gives in to his dark desires entirely. Inky shadows wrap around him and flesh melts and reforms until what is left is a gaunt bipedal shadow wolf with a sadistic unnaturally jagged smile and round glowing blue sunken eye sockets. Shadow Whip (Lawbringer), Shadow Tendril Strike (Thunderous Word) and Shadow Smite (Fiery Avenger) can be used for no AP cost in this state, with Shadow Whip immediately gaining the effects of Shadow Smite.
While in this form he is tougher to harm, requiring a full success to actually do him harm as the flexibility of his shadow form makes him slippery and agile and every strike leads to an increased sense of fear. In addition, every 10 damage or kill done while in this form (excluding from Declare) allows Declare to be used again in this scene.
This transformation lasts until unconscious, until his target(s) are killed, or someone trusted pulls him out of it successfully. He cannot run away.
*The cost is reduced by 1 AP for each ally below 50% HP, 2 AP for each at 0 HP, 4 AP for each fallen (dead or likely believed to be) ally, and an additional reduction based on how fearful individuals in the surrounding area or terror directed at the target in question.
Apparel & Accessories
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Mental characteristics
Personal history
Born in the cold snow outside of a monster hunting village.
Raised by a dwarven monster hunter.
Trained from a young age to participate in the hunts the village were hired for.
Completed a rite of passage to slay an ice banshee with other young hunters.
Two fellow hunters died in that battle.
Spent the following years continuing to hunt for the village, becoming extremely successful and slowly mastering his inherent shadow magic. Battle with a powerful dragon necromancer triggered instability in the magical leylines of the forest nearby, drawing Midnight into a rift. Midnight was then found floating in the ocean on a log. He eventually joined the Wanderpus crew, specializing in tracking and providing combat support when the situation warrants.
Raised by a dwarven monster hunter.
Trained from a young age to participate in the hunts the village were hired for.
Completed a rite of passage to slay an ice banshee with other young hunters.
Two fellow hunters died in that battle.
Spent the following years continuing to hunt for the village, becoming extremely successful and slowly mastering his inherent shadow magic. Battle with a powerful dragon necromancer triggered instability in the magical leylines of the forest nearby, drawing Midnight into a rift. Midnight was then found floating in the ocean on a log. He eventually joined the Wanderpus crew, specializing in tracking and providing combat support when the situation warrants.
Gender Identity
Cis Male (He/Him)
Sexuality
Polyamorous Heterosexual
Education
Hands on training in tracking and fighting in the cold mountains, infested with magical monsters.
Employment
Airship - Tracking Specialist
Accomplishments & Achievements
- Midnight has claimed the heart of an ice banshee, one of the hardest of introductory hunts to become a full fledged hunter.
- He has successfully slain various monsters across his mountain home.
- Aided in the slaying of the massive white redcap the crew met on the Otter moon.
Failures & Embarrassments
- A squirrel girl played a particularly epic prank on him involving a low-yield acorn shaped bomb in the latrine.
- Watched his best friend get killed by the ice banshee from his introductory hunt.
- Failed to act quickly enough to stop the spawning of a white redcap from an otherworldly word tree sapling.
Mental Trauma
- Watched two of his companions get frozen to death by an ice banshee.
Intellectual Characteristics
Naturally curious and tends to pay close attention to experts in fields he isn't aware of.
Morality & Philosophy
"What is important is not the bonds of blood, but those that are forged in fire and hardship."
Midnight's sense of morality is most strongly centered around those he cares for, has fought with, and bled with, doing all he can to protect them with all his strength. For them there is almost nothing he would not do, for better or for worse.
There are some limits to this however. Needless cruelty from said individuals is strongly looked down upon. Bringing harm to those who have themselves proven to be no threat with absolutely no purpose can be cause to reconsider his position on an individual but he can tolerate some pretty extreme action taken against those who do present a threat.
Midnight's sense of morality is most strongly centered around those he cares for, has fought with, and bled with, doing all he can to protect them with all his strength. For them there is almost nothing he would not do, for better or for worse.
There are some limits to this however. Needless cruelty from said individuals is strongly looked down upon. Bringing harm to those who have themselves proven to be no threat with absolutely no purpose can be cause to reconsider his position on an individual but he can tolerate some pretty extreme action taken against those who do present a threat.
Taboos
Betrayal and anything to do with harming souls are the biggest taboos in Midnight's eyes.
Personality Characteristics
Motivation
Loyalty to his allies
Enjoys parties and hunts.
Enjoys parties and hunts.
Savvies & Ineptitudes
Midnight has always considered himself great at hunting and fighting. He is less great at social niceties at times, and his art and crafting skills are absolute trash. In multiple years of trying to learn how to make weapons for himself as part of the first couple years of his training he has made exactly zero things that were worth keeping. Not even a horseshoe. The kind of coordination it requires just eludes him.
Likes & Dislikes
Likes
Hunting
Fishing
Trophies
Fighting
Drinking
Dislikes
Disloyalty
Grains
Strong smells
Hunting
Fishing
Trophies
Fighting
Drinking
Dislikes
Disloyalty
Grains
Strong smells
Virtues & Personality perks
Extremely loyal to friends and allies. He will actively put himself in harm's way to protect them. He also has a soft spot for youths, treating those who'd harm them the same as someone who has harmed someone close.
Vices & Personality flaws
Vengeful to a Vlad the Impaler level degree. His revenge takes whatever form he thinks it'll take to discourage ever crossing him again. He is also not above drinking so heavily and partying to the point where he doesn't entirely remember what happened the night before when he wakes up. Sometimes not alone.
Personality Quirks
Starts to tend towards more sadistic behavior when he is given something or someone to track down. Also his tail tends to wag when he is particularly enjoying something, even if he wants to hide it, though that isn't particularly unusual for most with canine traits.
Hygiene
Midnight loves his daily baths, especially when he has any kind of ginger based wash. He is quite particular about making sure he doesn't stink, in part due to his time as a hunter, but also he himself finds it unpleasant. He also has regular pain from the scar on his chest that baths help relax.
Social
Contacts & Relations
Kalolin Ashforge
Kalolin is known as the Moonlight Cleric of the Banshee Mountains, or lovingly refered to as "Linlin" by her friends. A silver-hair, bronze-skinned dwarf with pure white eyes who specializes in holy magicks that contain a tinge of moonlight to them. She was one of Midnight's closest hunting partners and his voice of reason whenever Midnight did something reckless or began letting his anger get the better of him. She has a bit of a violent streak as she is not afraid to punch someone, that someone often being Midnight, right in the face to knock some sense into him. Thankfully she usually reserves that for when that something is liable to get them killed.
Her holy magicks are largely a personal talent but most practitioners have their influenced by their religious beliefs. Kalolin's religious beliefs are primary spiritual in nature, believing the night to be the time through which all spirits are revitalized and that the darker creatures of the night corrupt and feed on this revitalizing energy. This is why all her powers have the moonlight aspect to them as they have been influenced by this belief, generating moonlight that revitalizes and protects her allies, and burns away festering and poisoned mana.
Midnight has not seen her since his removal from the Meterra Plane.
Hargak Underbrew
A lavender-skinned dwarf with long, braided black hair and beard and emerald green eyes. He is short and stocky even by dwarven standards but is fiercely strong. His strength is complement by a form of Space magic that allows him to alter the size of any non-living object he touches. Even more-so by this magic allowing him to wield objects of greater sizes just as he would if it were normal sized if he so chooses. This has led to Midnight having great respect for his combat ability and trusting him to lead the charge in many of their hunts.
Hargak was formerly one of Midnight's childhood bullies, often getting into fight with Midnight over his non-Dwarven origin. After the man he followed and one of his close friends were killed however, he and Midnight began to bond over drinks. Over time this led to Hargak feeling great shame and remorse over how he treated Midnight and him swearing to come to the wolfman's aid whenever he called.
Midnight has not seen him since the fight that led to Midnight's removal from the Meterra Plane.
Nilly Nutcracker
Nilly Nutcracker is a short, red-haired squirrel girl born to a family of alchemists. Her family visited the Banshee Mountains village on a yearly basis every spring to exchange their potions and reagents for goods to bring back to the city of Ratatoskr on the large island nation of Yggdrasil. She is about a year younger than Midnight and met him when he was about five years old during her first trip with her family to the village. She was also the first non-dwarf his own age that he had ever met. This caught Midnight's interest immediately due to a sense of isolation he felt at being the only non-dwarf in the village. In fact it could be said that she was Midnight's very first friend.
Since then every year they would exchange stories of what they did in the last year since they'd seen each other and teach each other a few of the tricks they've learned. Often Nilly's efforts would lead to explosive consequences that resulted in them both getting hurt but it was always survivable. Midnight admittingly has trouble keeping up with Nilly's extremely high energy, excitable and hyperactive personality but to him she will always be the little sister he never had. Even after that time she blew up the latrine with him in it after he said something to upset her.
Kalolin is known as the Moonlight Cleric of the Banshee Mountains, or lovingly refered to as "Linlin" by her friends. A silver-hair, bronze-skinned dwarf with pure white eyes who specializes in holy magicks that contain a tinge of moonlight to them. She was one of Midnight's closest hunting partners and his voice of reason whenever Midnight did something reckless or began letting his anger get the better of him. She has a bit of a violent streak as she is not afraid to punch someone, that someone often being Midnight, right in the face to knock some sense into him. Thankfully she usually reserves that for when that something is liable to get them killed.
Her holy magicks are largely a personal talent but most practitioners have their influenced by their religious beliefs. Kalolin's religious beliefs are primary spiritual in nature, believing the night to be the time through which all spirits are revitalized and that the darker creatures of the night corrupt and feed on this revitalizing energy. This is why all her powers have the moonlight aspect to them as they have been influenced by this belief, generating moonlight that revitalizes and protects her allies, and burns away festering and poisoned mana.
Midnight has not seen her since his removal from the Meterra Plane.
Hargak Underbrew
A lavender-skinned dwarf with long, braided black hair and beard and emerald green eyes. He is short and stocky even by dwarven standards but is fiercely strong. His strength is complement by a form of Space magic that allows him to alter the size of any non-living object he touches. Even more-so by this magic allowing him to wield objects of greater sizes just as he would if it were normal sized if he so chooses. This has led to Midnight having great respect for his combat ability and trusting him to lead the charge in many of their hunts.
Hargak was formerly one of Midnight's childhood bullies, often getting into fight with Midnight over his non-Dwarven origin. After the man he followed and one of his close friends were killed however, he and Midnight began to bond over drinks. Over time this led to Hargak feeling great shame and remorse over how he treated Midnight and him swearing to come to the wolfman's aid whenever he called.
Midnight has not seen him since the fight that led to Midnight's removal from the Meterra Plane.
Nilly Nutcracker
Nilly Nutcracker is a short, red-haired squirrel girl born to a family of alchemists. Her family visited the Banshee Mountains village on a yearly basis every spring to exchange their potions and reagents for goods to bring back to the city of Ratatoskr on the large island nation of Yggdrasil. She is about a year younger than Midnight and met him when he was about five years old during her first trip with her family to the village. She was also the first non-dwarf his own age that he had ever met. This caught Midnight's interest immediately due to a sense of isolation he felt at being the only non-dwarf in the village. In fact it could be said that she was Midnight's very first friend.
Since then every year they would exchange stories of what they did in the last year since they'd seen each other and teach each other a few of the tricks they've learned. Often Nilly's efforts would lead to explosive consequences that resulted in them both getting hurt but it was always survivable. Midnight admittingly has trouble keeping up with Nilly's extremely high energy, excitable and hyperactive personality but to him she will always be the little sister he never had. Even after that time she blew up the latrine with him in it after he said something to upset her.
Family Ties
Yomrim Brewsword
Midnight's adoptive father. A muscular dwarf with ash colored and singed hair and a frizzy messy beard that goes down to his belly, similarly singed. He is a former hunter that turned to forging after losing his left leg to a mongrelbeast (a mutated mass of a multitude of creatures born in regions of pure chaotic magic) and has a gruff personality. The evidence of his many great hunts resides not only in the many runed silver earrings along both of his ears but through his entire body being a mess of scars.
Yomrim rarely speaks to anyone, opting to express his feelings with his looks. The cold stare of disapproval from his crimson eyes is legendary and can drive even his fellow elders to recoil. This is a gaze Midnight has faced many times in his childhood, though he has equally expressed his approval as Midnight slowly learned the skills that he passed down. When he does speak, his voice is loud and booming and his words are short and concise, expressing only what he absolutely feels needs stating. Midnight has two memories he prizes above all others of the man. The first was a when he made Midnight's cloak from the fur of a black bram (a mutated mix with the head of a ram, but the hulking body of a bear). This bram was Midnight's first proper kill, done under Yomrim's supervision. The other is when he forged Midnight's first silver earring, etched with the name of Midnight's best friend, making it a commemoration of not only Midnight's first successfully unsupervised hunt, but of the friend he lost on that hunt.
Midnight hasn't seen Yomrim since the day that Midnight has come to the Liminal Plane.
Midnight's adoptive father. A muscular dwarf with ash colored and singed hair and a frizzy messy beard that goes down to his belly, similarly singed. He is a former hunter that turned to forging after losing his left leg to a mongrelbeast (a mutated mass of a multitude of creatures born in regions of pure chaotic magic) and has a gruff personality. The evidence of his many great hunts resides not only in the many runed silver earrings along both of his ears but through his entire body being a mess of scars.
Yomrim rarely speaks to anyone, opting to express his feelings with his looks. The cold stare of disapproval from his crimson eyes is legendary and can drive even his fellow elders to recoil. This is a gaze Midnight has faced many times in his childhood, though he has equally expressed his approval as Midnight slowly learned the skills that he passed down. When he does speak, his voice is loud and booming and his words are short and concise, expressing only what he absolutely feels needs stating. Midnight has two memories he prizes above all others of the man. The first was a when he made Midnight's cloak from the fur of a black bram (a mutated mix with the head of a ram, but the hulking body of a bear). This bram was Midnight's first proper kill, done under Yomrim's supervision. The other is when he forged Midnight's first silver earring, etched with the name of Midnight's best friend, making it a commemoration of not only Midnight's first successfully unsupervised hunt, but of the friend he lost on that hunt.
Midnight hasn't seen Yomrim since the day that Midnight has come to the Liminal Plane.
Religious Views
Very much agnostic. In his world, god-like beings exist as a matter of fact, often making themselves known through the undercurrents of magic. However he isn't a follower of any of them, finding such beings to just be powerful individuals, possibly even leaders of their followers. Due to his lack of direct interaction with them, he sees no need to worship any as none have shown any particular interest in him as far as he could tell.
Social Aptitude
Social niceties aren't really his thing but he tends to be open and kind at a default if a little unsettling in appearance and sometimes behavior. His policy overall is to treat new people like friends and friends like family, always seeking new drinking buddies, stories of battle, and fun in general. Those he doesn't like however he lets know in no uncertain terms.
Wealth & Financial state
- Midnight only came to Liminal with the clothes on his back and his weapon. These clothes did include some pure silver earrings, each crafted by dwarves and given him as rewards for particularly tough hunts. This has given him a particular fondness for silver.
- Has an apartment in the Silver Thimble he barely uses, opting often to find places to camp. Mostly returns for his baths.
- Has been saving what gold he can in hopes of finding some good he can do with it in the future.
Adopted son of a Dwarven monster hunter name Yomrim Brewsword. Grew up in another world in a village of monster hunters. He was pulled into a rift due to an instability in a magical leyline of his world.
View Character Profile
Alignment
Lawful Neutral
Honorary & Occupational Titles
The Shadow Wolf of the Banshee Mountains
Age
26
Date of Birth
21st Day of the 12th Month, 3526 After Meteor (AM)
Birthplace
Banshee Mountains in the Meterra Plane
Children
Current Residence
HTML Wanderpus in Liminal Plane
Gender
Male
Eyes
Bright Blue
Hair
Black and Silver
Skin Tone/Pigmentation
black and furred
Height
6 ft. 5 in.
Weight
220 lbs
Dwarven (at least that of those of his home plane)
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Midnight's Report: Nothing Breaks Like a Heart Ep. 1
"Gonna keep this short and sweet as I am exhausted.
Don't know what Adli did in the forest on the way to Meyer's place, but whatever it was seemed to make all of Folksong sick along with myself and Clem. Get a full report on Adli in regards to that, I still feel ill thinking about it.
Caistlin's white side adventurers stopped us on the way to Sonnerie. Accused me of being the big bad wolf? Funny to think about as I'd been called that back home, but that was mostly a joke referring to our version of the story which was pretty damn ancient. Cash seemed to handle things. I was busy slowly dying in the back seat.
Black Dog went wild when we hit the graveyard. Ate a ghost. Yes, I know Peanut, I'm sorry. More details will follow.
We reached Meyers place, ran into an angry mob in front of his place. I scared them off in my irritation and our lack of time, but it also made the most sense to avoid killing any of them.
Briefly received an examination from Meyers. He recognized my cursed state and named them... even recognized my status as being part shadow demon interestingly enough. I'm not sure how he has that information.
We were then allowed to peruse his library. The others had success on finding information on our goal... with all the questions about Alto I could think of being answered by others, I opted to look into curses. Details will follow.
Mob attacked the house. We scared them off again, Adli ripped a hole in reality and summoned some creatures to do it. We avoided killing anybody, though Meyer's assistant killed two. Meyers also apparently insisted on keeping the hole. Also MEYERS SENT AGENTS THAT STOLE THE NIGHTMARE PEARL PRISM FISHED UP! I believe we may need to classify Meyer's as a severe potential threat and review security. I left that thing with the Mysticians to get it examined which means whoever took it gained access to their facilities.
We collected what information we had, made a stop at a town in Sonnerie to break my new curse from eating the ghost.
So to summarize..
Important Events:
Adli examined something in the forest of great danger. Seek additional details from ae.
Meyers is now in possession of a reality tear.
Security breach in the Mysticians facility.
Meyers is now in possession of the nightmare pearl.
Meyers may not be as pleasant as he presents himself, making enemies of town folk, no regard for property or potential danger. The towns folk themselves seemed to have a bit of a bigotry towards doctors and monstrous beings however. Uncertain of how much benefit of doubt to give them, but given Meyers' activity? Current recommendation is to treat Meyers with caution and avoid lethal measures on any who see him as an enemy. I've seen more than a few reasons why such behavior may VERY much be warranted against him.
Information on Curses:
Black Dog eats ghosts and desires power from them.
Black Dog is currently too volatile for me to regain my shadow safely although apparently information Cash has gained or Meyers themselves may be able to accomplish this if that issue is settled.
Meyers had a book on clinical descriptions of curses. I've copied some notes down and will file them with this report. Short version is that "true love's kiss" seems to be the most commonly known cure and he abandoned efforts to artificially create that effect. Perhaps if spirits of love were gathered? Wonder if Lio still feels for me... Cash and Jellybean are quite the couple too, maybe ask them to be observed for such spirits? Reedi and Sabetha?
Another possible cure as well. We freed the ghost I devoured by completing its unfinished business and broke that new curse of guilt that way. Was rather therapeutic actually (no, I won't say how I did it, it's embarrassing.) Black Dog was infuriated, but perhaps the Black Dog themselves is similarly cursed and there is a goal hidden under all that hunger and shadow that I need to examine.
Black Dog became more active in Sonnerie and even spoke. Perhaps if conditions could be recreated in a controlled environment, full communion could be achieved to discover its full intent.
Details on Alkali:
The others found some good books on this and Adli found some maps. Check their reports for details."
Midnight's Report: Building Steam (Flower and Geoff)
"Where to even begin with this one. Honestly I feel like I've been through an emotional rollercoaster today. Getting that call for assistance from Geri, Marigold and the Council of Roses being under attack, and battling with my emotions pretty hard the entire way."
"I suppose the beginning. I was on the beach training grounds, training, fishing and waiting for word from Geri. It's around the time I got that fish I'm currently picking through to find out its uses and the black pearl inside it. The Black Dog shadow wasn't a fan of it, that's for sure. Fair enough I suppose, it seemed to have nightmare origins. I made a point to turn that over to the Mysticians for now. Maybe I can use it in my project for making a true hunter weapon for myself, or given the shadow of mine with Cash ate an ungodly amount of nightmare, maybe it can eventually be used to bolster my shadow. Make me fully in control. Of course I'm not going to rush into it. Rather the Mysticians give me the full rundown before I do anything with it."
"Around that time Cass and Tarkus showed up and we got a call from Geri. Folksong was asking for help. In particular the guild. Geri even suggested in might be a good way to get in good with the guild again given what I did. Probably fat chance of that unless we send a restored copy of the book I recovered back to them. We weren't able to get there as quick as planned as Osiria had received a call from Gaia's Garden about an attack. I admit, I relished the chance to return there. Recover the sword my father made me, make sure that the magic within it didn't go crazy. If things were less immediately dire though, I certainly would have pushed for Geri's task first for the sake of Folksong relations and the like. However, I can't ignore lives in peril. It's not in my nature. And Osiria was pretty insistent. And well... anyways, moving on."
"We got to Folksong and discovered the problem pretty quick. Folksong was locked into night and it was triggering transformations in people. It agitated the Black Dog though I kept it under control. Osiria however grew fangs. FANGS of all things. I didn't even know she had such a transformation. It was magnificent! Or it would be but her temper was off the entire time. So was Tarkus. I've never seen him so brutal. It's weird being the one most in control. Though Cass had things handled well too. Anyways, we tracked to Court of Roses right to Flower's lair, who was looking particularly savage. Riddle & Rhyme were there too, getting their asses kicked. Tarkus blinded Flower, I smacked a poison apple into their mouth, and Osiria and Cass got the finishing blows in. We even managed to save a member of Riddle & Rhyme that was eaten. That said, Tarkus and Osiria were a bit reckless with Riddle & Rhyme. We saved them, but I doubt they'll be appreciative. Especially since we screwed up carving Flower and stunk up the cave. The smell would keep them safe but it was rather disgusting to the point I dived into the water. We weren't going to be able to salvage anything in that st- SON OF A BITCH! I could have seen if I could have used the cleaning slime. That stuff was able to deal with pretty much any mess! I'm an idiot."
"Besides the point. We learned from Marigold that there was likely an anomaly to the north causing all this. Right around where our other task was. We rushed there as quickly as possible to find the trading post fully burned. It was unfortunate, but I'm not going to place property over lives. A roar of challenge came from Geoff the dragon at his tower, causing Osiria to run off, leaving little time for a plan, but it worked out. Cass went immediately to deal with the anomaly, I tried to restrain Geoff and Tarkus and Osiria... got carried away. Tarkus ripping a chunk of his scales out with his shots and Osiria turning into a strange wolf and ripping right through him, eating Geoff's heart. Worse, Osiria lost themselves. I opted to deal with the anomaly due to its closure being what was needed to solve this, and Cass was being slower than I'd like. He hadn't received much training with anomalies but I had my past experience with Rifts to draw from, so with him receiving instruction from Catori and myself aiding, we did manage to close it up. Not before Tarkus and Osiria knocked each other out however. Kind of didn't leave us a lot of time to deal with Geoff's body, so I do request we send a message to Folksong to handle that."
"On the way out however, I did return to the trading post to grab some planks to drag Tarkus, and used an Undo scroll to recover the one book I brought back that needs restoration. That has been turned over to Bonnie at the Captain's request."
"It really is unfortunate Geoff died... he was a victim in all this. Forced to become a monster and rampage. I know it might not be my place as I'm not an officer, but I feel like we need to have words with Osiria and Tarkus to figure out what is going on with them. They've never displayed such feral behavior before."
Midnight's Report: Of Bees and Bones
OOC Note: This report has been submitted to Peanut and will be redacted based on his and/or other officers. Do not take anything on here as crew knowledge until given confirmation.
"Where to begin...
I suppose we can start with my mission to Yolk. It was a simple enough mission. They sent me to Sonnerie to slay a creature that had devoured a sealed box. Apparently the aura it gave off was corrupting and dangerous and only a specialist with shadow magic could safely come close without preparation. With me being more immediately available, I was sent solo. They clearly wanted it retrieved quickly. Seemed a simple enough mission. Set a trap, deal a swift killing blow, carve the beast up and be done. When I retrieved the object... well...
The object was a bone. A blackened humerus with swirling shadows and cursed whispers promising power. Not only that, but something I sensed gave me an incredibly bad feeling. A feeling that if anyone else had this object, there would be danger. Something indescribable. A sense that I could not bring it to Yolk. That I had to bring it home. A part of me I admit was concerned that this might be a trick, but at the same time, I have not known my instincts on such things to be wrong. Before you get too agitated about me acting on such loose information, I believe confirmation of this feeling may have come when I entered Yolk's forest. The bone began to fight against me, pulling towards Yolk. It ravenously devoured my magic when I tried to use it to aid me and shadowy beings were approaching and surrounding me. It wanted to go to Yolk.
This is the part where I suspect people will be most upset with me, but to put it simply? I'm not sure I had any other option. The bone was pulling at my magic, I was slowed down making brute force not an option if I wanted to escape what was chasing me. It was surrender the bone or do something dangerous. Something drastic. I... remembered the contact I used my magic to devour. It was a risky choice that ultimately did not play out like I hoped. I didn't get nearly as much on Gibbet to protect the crew as I hoped, and instead all it has led to is people getting addicted to magic, including myself. If things had been a little different, maybe it would have paid off, but ultimately, I did nothing but harm that I'm not sure I'll be able to undo but I hope to some day make amends. Despite all that, despite all my concerns? I did it again. The bone is a part of me. An extension of myself and Sonnerie now calls to me. What chased us disappeared. And I have to admit, while I feel something a little off, overall, I feel good. Damn good. Better than I could have imagined. I was afraid, especially in my weakened state, that I would be overwhelmed. I know I'm powerful but I'm not invincible. Death lies at every corner, and someday it will catch up with me. This could have been that choice that did it. Risking everything to protect the crew, Yolk, and perhaps even more. But now that it's done? I don't have a handle on it yet, but I feel like a bottomless well of shadows. I only need to learn how to tap into it.
We're going to need to figure out what it all means. I volunteer myself for any studies the Mysticians may need to perform to ascertain that I will remain myself and what exactly has happened to me. Now as for my mission with the others in Amhran...
Things weren't exactly great. The place was swarming with angry bees and wasps. The people? Well, some of Dyad came this way and they took them in. I respect the people of Amhran quite a bit for doing this, but something went wrong. Everyone was working rather mindlessly? Perhaps the wrong word. Their sense of self was numbed and there was only duty and war. Only Willaby and two others were ok. We discovered they were making a new sort of honey. Deep red like dried blood, and could form into deadly, hemoraging weapons. Blue honey seems to destabilize it, so it seems to be a powerful way to counter such things. Particularly with how agitated Eight got with Clem.
About Eight... she was Eight of Thirteen and seemed to thrive off of pain. She gained power from the pain and death of those around her, converting it into power. Eight of Thirteen of the Scythes of Waspmodeus. These beings and Waspmodeus themselves will likely be the deadliest of beings we have ever faced. Even King Charlie struggled as I'm sure you all saw and Waspmodeus is supposed to be weak against lightning. I think we're going to need to talk about bringing back a version of the buoys we developed against the Book Wyrm to buy us some time. I'm not sure what modifications will need to be done to make them work in this new world, but shock kind of electricity based trap to restrain them may be our best hope, and the heaviest, most devastating magic and weapons we can muster. We can't fight these things directly. Not yet. Only weaken them, drive them off, and hope to minimize the damage until we can deal a finishing blow. As another note, Relieve seems to mitigate their ability to absorb additional pain. I had hoped it would cut them off from their affinity entirely, and perhaps that is still a possibility, but placement and focus may be a factor.
I only hope with Eight driven from Amhran, we can restore relations. Calm them down. Find balance as Seth put it so well. It seems Amhran's priest might be in part to blame given he inspired desires for war, particularly among the new residents, but given Eight's involvement, I doubt they entirely knew what was going to happen. Oh, and thank Willaby for me. I owed him a drink before but after saving both Clem and Quet? That guy... we need him on the crew. He has proven himself beyond compare and I know though we don't know each other well, if he calls for help, I will always answer.
Oh... turns out one of the side effects of me eating the bone may have occurred. When I say Eight, I immediately went into some new version of my shadow demon form. It projected one nasty fear aura that only Clem and Eight were able to resist. I won't lie, it's a useful ability to have. Incredibly so. I just hope Seth, Quet and Willaby aren't too emotionally scarred by it."
Midnight's Report: Wolf
Threat Assessment: High
We underestimated the threat level Gibbet's experiments presented in the plains. Details are as followed:
Tower 1: Covered in a crystalline structure, likely dream crystal. Rapidly draining magic from the area and projecting it into the clouds. Given limited tools, a risky maneuver was determined to be necessary to slice through the device. Crystal structure may remain and need to be added to the list of final cleanup. Also there appeared to be a shadow version of the whale ship. Given the events that transpired in the Thimble during our absence? I suspect the fears of the people of the Thimble were brought to life here while some of our own fears manifested in the Thimble. See my previously submitted personal journal entries related to the Ice Banshee from my home plane for details.
Tower 2: Protected by small shadowy creatures with incredibly sharp claws. All creatures but one destroyed, which transformed into a strange entity that escaped. Mana battery recovered and device disabled.
Tower 3: No immediately obvious protection or issues other than an unusual level of forgetfulness seeming to be indicated when we were in its presence? Obvious tools that myself or other crew members usually kept on hand we somehow had forgotten. Given the unusualness of the circumstances and the extreme level of coincidence of us all simultaneously seeming to engage in an unusual degree of incompetence, I suspect the reality manipulation that we have encountered in brief moments from time to time.
Central Pylon: Massive dream crystal collecting massive amounts of magical energy. Seemed to attract spiritual entities of some variety while draining and destroying others. Collapsed into a massive hole that contains large amount of similar crystal.
Assessment of Magic Drain:
Examining the corpse of one of the creatures killed by the magic drain revealed properties in the corpse similar to null metal. The being was more than simply dead. It was as if everything it was is gone. Recommend extreme caution when facing similar events in the future.
Assessment of Central Hole:
The source of the devices taking the turn it has seems to be in the hole. Massive crystal structures were spotted, making it highly likely these crystals have been spreading underground for some time. Proximity to Consonant and the dream crystal connection is highly suspicious.
Personal After Action Report:
The Black Dog spirit that has taken residence in my shadow was attracted to a mana battery, drank it and then was drawn to the central crystal, taking much of my shadow with it. This resulted in a colossal entity that presented a massive threat. Mana battery was removed and spirit was injured, retreating back to my shadow.
During this process, I attempted to invoke the power of the tooth I received from the Kuk'lah. The normal spirit of Hope that balanced with my shadow magic did not answer the call. Instead if I had to guess, it was a spirit of Compassion given the feelings I sensed from it and its desire to end the suffering of the Black Dog and what was occurring in the Thimble. It also altered my normal transformation. Adapting was a bit of a challenge given compassion doesn't usually enter my mind when it comes to a fight. Not certain how such a thing occurred, whether the spirits actively took an opportunity to fight back against what was occurring or if there is more to these transformations than we realize.
Recommendations: Forward this report to the Mysticians, multiple copies to ensure Officer Vatna doesn't simply ignore and eat this.
Follow up team to explore the central hole. Heavy firepower recommended, particularly of the non-magical variety.
Review previously submitted journal entry on Ice Banshee and compare to witnesses of the banshee that appeared in the Thimble to confirm if the creature was indeed the one I describe in said journal entry.
Additional research into spirits, particularly as it relates to the Black Dog during our next visit to Folksong or other areas that may hold such information.
*a copy of Midnight's entry on the Ice Banshee is attached: https://www.worldanvil.com/hero/journal/0013da91-f0bb-41c5-8c70-c5d4c87671bf/view*
Midnight's Journal: Constellations
"Yoke has been an interesting place. In ways it's almost a parody of many of the things back home. Still, it's an enjoyable sort of place. Still, haven't had a whole lot of luck with the Adventurer's Guild ever since I told them about my connection to Gibbet. I would like to explain that more clearly, but it's best I not let my true feelings get back to them. So for most of the day I just hoped they would adjust to my presence and someone would be brave enough to talk to me, even if it would be simply to rant about whatever their issues are. Knowing what Gibbet has done would be valuable information in my efforts in itself."
"Thankfully things seemed to pick up. I noted a rumbling off in the distance and went to check it out only to see this MASSIVE giant. The same apparently the Captain and her group messed up with. An opportunity to prove myself. I got on the radio to let everyone know I was going to check it out and if they wanted to come along, they were welcome. Little bit of initiative to clean up a mistake we made. This thought got caught short as I heard about other going ons. Quet and Isaac being hired to track down some books and Adli being threatened with arrest to get one in particular. Wasn't particularly happy about that last bit. What did ae do to be threatened with such a thing?"
"Anyways, first things first was to look into the small amount of clues we had. Just a name. Cursive. Not much, but well, I've worked with less. First thing to check in a situation like this is where such a name originates usually. Typically gives a hint on where a person might be from or their origin. Maybe you get lucky enough to find people with that name. We got sidetracked saving a child to the point where I forgot to ask the rather irresponsible caregiver that then abandoned the kid, but it worked out. We circled back to the library and met a rather interesting fellow who knew where we needed to go and gave us a quick way to travel. Could have done without being clubbed on the head, but still. Unfortunately we had to leave some powerful items as collateral. He also left a business card for a place in the Folded City? Perhaps my curse can be dealt with there in the long run if things don't pan out in Yoke. It is curious how the entire library seemed interested in my presence. So much so that my presence brought utter awkward silence. I seem to be having that effect on people."
"Back to the point, turned out Cursive lived in the area the giant was stomping around. Convenient. We tracked them down and while I would have loved to chat, we had to deal with things quickly to avoid the risk of the wagon being damaged. That chisel of mine absolutely can NOT fall in the wrong hands. We got to the manor and found the giant. Upset about not being able to take a nap apparently? My mind immediately went to Ceylon's music lessons. A lullaby that we were taught that it turned out I was rather good at and decided to sing for the giant while the others went to look for the book. Isaac cast some spell on the way in that I'm not entirely sure what it did, but I suspect it helped. The giant was very enamored with my song, lifting me up to a high rock to hear me easier and then wanting a story."
"A story.... what could I tell the giant? It was obvious after a moment. Who else could I tell him about but my old friend, Notroc Giantheart. One of the fiercest and strongest people I ever knew. The story of how we met and how we became close friends...."
*silence falls upon the recording other than background noise and a few loud sniffs before Midnight continued*
"Anyways... he seemed confused by my meaning at first, insulted even and attacked me. I blocked his attempt to toss me away using a vial of the lippy drug and my transformation ring but still took a powerful hit. Nearly broken by the strike, I forced myself to the feet and stared the giant down, asking simply if he wanted me to continue the story or not. I'm not sure if he was impressed with me, curious, or what but he let me continue, to clarify my meaning. Eventually he fell asleep. The others soon came out with the book and well, we were on our wa-.... I wonder if they checked for the other books that were asked for... we kind of wanted those particular books too afterall. Maybe I should ask Quet."
*click*
Midnight's Journal: A Story to a Giant
"Once upon a time, in a bustling village nestled amidst rugged mountains, there lived a dwarf named Notroc. With fiery hair and a temper as fierce as a volcano, Notroc possessed unmatched strength and an unyielding spirit. He roamed the village with restless energy, looking for an outlet for his tremendous power.
Notroc's wrath was often unleashed upon unsuspecting villagers, his temper flaring like an untamed storm. His mighty fists and thunderous voice struck fear into the hearts of those who crossed his path. But deep down, beneath his gruff exterior, Notroc yearned for something more. He longed for purpose and a way to channel his strength in a meaningful way.
One fateful day, as Notroc wandered through the village, his keen eyes caught sight of a scene that stirred something within him. A figure, smaller and more delicate than the rest, was being bullied by a group of envious troublemakers. Notroc's heart surged with a newfound determination.
With a roar that shook the earth, Notroc charged into the fray, his fists blazing like molten iron. His powerful blows sent the attackers scattering, their cruel laughter silenced by his relentless defense of the smaller figure. Notroc stood tall, a guardian towering over the one he had protected.
From that moment on, a remarkable bond formed between Notroc and the one he had shielded. They spent countless hours together, exploring the mountains, venturing into the deepest forests, and honing their skills side by side. Notroc discovered a purpose beyond his own strength—to protect and uplift this newfound friend.
As they faced numerous trials and challenges together, Notroc's hotheadedness gradually transformed into unwavering loyalty and steadfast determination. He learned the value of patience, understanding, and the strength that came from supporting others.
Notroc's incredible strength became a shield, a source of comfort and protection for his companion. He used his might to clear paths, defend against dangers, and lift spirits when they wavered. He became a true friend, standing by their side through thick and thin.
Through their shared adventures, Notroc found purpose and fulfillment. No longer did he roam aimlessly, seeking fights to quell the fire within him. He had discovered the true meaning of strength—to be a pillar of support, a guiding light for someone who needed it.
The villagers marveled at the transformation they witnessed in Notroc. He had evolved from a raging tempest to a steadfast mountain, unwavering in his commitment to his friend. His story spread throughout the village, as a powerful example of the meaning of friendship and how it can bring purpose to one's life.
And so, the tale of Notroc, the once tempestuous dwarf who found purpose in protecting and uplifting a friend, became a timeless legend. It reminded everyone that true strength lies not only in one's physical prowess but also in the loyalty, compassion, and unwavering support we offer to those we hold dear."
Midnight's Report: Handclap
Packaged in the report is the following letter and a recording:
Dear Midnight,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you as the Modern Major General of Gibbet, We have been closely following your exploits and have heard remarkable stories of your recent achievement in defeating the fearsome Tatzelwurm using a mana battery. Your actions have captured the imagination of the people on this side of the world, and we commend you for your courage and ingenuity.
In Gibbet, we pride ourselves on our relentless pursuit of progress and have been working tirelessly to develop a global energy company that harnesses the incredible power of mana batteries. Our vision is to transform the world, bringing forth a new era of technology that will change the way we live and interact. By tapping into the potential of mana batteries, we aim to create a sustainable, clean, and efficient energy source that can power the world for generations to come.
It is with great admiration and respect for your accomplishments that we would like to extend an invitation to you, Midnight, to become the official spokesperson of our movement. Your extraordinary story has already inspired countless individuals, and we believe that your involvement in our endeavor will not only bolster public enthusiasm but also lend credibility to our mission.
As our spokesperson, you will play a vital role in promoting the wonders of mana battery technology, engaging with the public, and sharing your unique experiences to further our cause. We are confident that your voice and influence will be invaluable in bringing the world together and achieving the ultimate goal of global energy transformation.
Please take your time to consider our proposal. We would be honored to have you join us in this ambitious venture and are eager to discuss the details further. If you have any questions or require additional information, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We eagerly await your response and hope to embark on this incredible journey together.
Sincerely,
The Modern Major General
PS-We have included a mock up of an advertisement and of course a 6 pack of the new Mana Batteries that can be consumed by all types of beings. We are including the new flavor, Midnight Charge! We hope you enjoy it.
----
I have attached a letter I received from the Modern Major General of Gibbet as a result of the recent events in the forest. I am intending to accept this offer pending permission from a superior officer. I am reluctant to fully trust Gibbet given some of the actions of their people but I believe this is an opportunity to learn more about Gibbet. Not just of their political and economic structures, but to get to know it's people. Whatever is going on, we are going to need to make peace with them if we are to return to our roots as explorers in good conscience. We can't simply leave the Silver Thimble and hope for the best. It's our home after all. Having someone on the inside of Gibbet might be the best means to accomplish this. I have attached a draft of my response letter to be looked over"
Additional attached letter:
"Dear Modern Major General,
Thank you for your kind offer. It is good to finally have my ability recognized. Given the threat the Tatzelwurm presents, I am interested in learning more about your endeavor. The people of this world deserve protection from beasts who would do them harm and opportunities to improve their standard of living.
I however have not personally had much direct interaction for Gibbet, so I absolutely do have questions that require answers and of course meeting the people I would be speaking for would be vital for me to be an effective representative. For both our sakes I would like to be certain that I am a good fit in that department.
With this in mind, I believe arranging a meeting after I deal with some prior obligations would be a requirement for my full consideration of your offer. I will be sure to take the opportunity to sample your wonderful gift in the meantime and put it through its paces.
Sincerely,
Midnight Erebus
Shadow Wolf of the Banshee Mountains
---
HIGH PRIORITY ADDENDUM:
"During the festival myself and Akhana went to the Gibbet tent. They were advertising this new product to the extreme with no direct acceptance from me. This is a high priority warning to the officers! The mana batteries include fine print bureaumancy giving Gibbet ownership of all positive actions taken while under the influence of mana batteries! The flamingos assisted them with this contract magic! Recommend immediate examination of how to handle this situation. Akhana has also informed me the drink they have dubbed "Midnight Rush" is also highly addicting to those with low magic levels. I have taken initiative to help strengthen my relation with the people of Gibbet for the moment. I am uncertain if this is an ideal course of action but nonetheless the opportunity that presented itself was short lasting and a quick decision had to be made. I will do what I can to keep the officers updated. I do recommend these communications and reports be kept strictly to officer access if at all possible given I suspect they would not want others to know the dangers involved in their new product."
Midnight's Report: After Love From The Other Side
"Where to begin..."
"Thaddeus made a call to Charity who then put a call out to Renic, Arel and myself. Apparently Thaddeus has been busy, recovering books from after the tower was taken down. Including a book Arel brought to my attention involving the forest. Myself and Charity were also interested in a Tomb to the east, hoping we could find more information on the Lady of Ash but also something that could help the Silver Thimble. The bread crumbs of knowledge and information she has been leaving behind could be valuable in so many ways and I hope we get the chance to pursue that lead in the future, but the forest took priority."
"Truth be told, I've been wanting to talk to the Tatzelwurm, see if they could be negotiated with. After all, Iskra's people were able to speak with them, right? There must be something to that. Is the Tatzelwurm truly simply a cruel monster, or a guardian with a great purpose that enjoys its zealous defense of the forest too much? I don't know, but no good will come from completely dismantling the forest. It is a dangerous but wonderous place that I can't help but have an appreciation for. I want to learn more. So much more."
"We held off on that for now however. Probably would be better to have Iskra as an intermediary anyways if we can. We decided to rely on Arel's golden path magic that protected us as we travelled. Mostly. See there was a small issue. There is a point in the forest that I cannot cross. A point that forced me to bring up my current cursed state to those not in the know. Granted, we now know the name of the magic involved in the curse thanks to Thaddeus. Bureaumancy. Apparently this magic comes from this world's version of Yoke. Law and contract based magic... it's a fascinating prospect in theory. Magic that could be used to potentially enforce agreements between parties? To create consequence for those who violate their oaths and agreements? It has a lot of potential. And yet it's being used to create curses like this? It doesn't surprise me, but the abuse of such a wonderful concept still infuriates me. Still, it might give some insight into how to break it. Arel and Renic will likely be key in doing so."
"Anyways, we did figure out that the line that I couldn't cross would likely affect most of the crew. Just me more so given my current state. Despite this we managed to find something of interest. Likely the thing that the Lady of Ash sought from the recovered copy of "A Garden of My Own". A remnant of the Scholars of the Page that specifically referred to a Librarian called Nikki B. I feel this information might become invaluable to Quet at some point. In fact I believe at some point Quet MUST be involved in an investigation of these Scholars and Librarians both for our information and for Quet's development. To understand what fragments of who their people are might remain in this new world and for us to understand what the Librarian was and what exactly happened. We have a lot on our plate at the current moment, but this place might tell us much in the future. We also noticed the name E. Zekiel as the author of the book. I wonder if it has anything to do with that Ezekiel I heard the crew mention once? A snailsman? Maybe the Snailsman I took the curse from might be able to point us in the right direction of additional volumes of this book in such a case. Worth a try next time we see them."
"There of course was a problem. The book had a protection spell on it. Whether I triggered it on accident or something we were close to caused it to do so, the Lady of Ash's magic burned the book, causing me to drop it. The Tatzelwurm noticed the fire and came rushing for us, the golden path spell being disrupted and the group scattered. I braced myself and prepared to run as I expected I'd be the target, but no such chase came. Strange. Wasn't I the one at fault here? Instead I heard a growl and knowing what it meant, I rushed towards it, refusing to leave a comrade behind. There I saw the Tatzelwurm staring down Arel. I didn't have time to think, I just acted. I used a mana battery, used the excess magic in my ring and bound the Tatzelwurm before sucker punching it with all my might. I knew we couldn't beat it, but we didn't need to. Just needed to stun it long enough to start making our escape."
"And escape we did. I'm not sure why the Tatzelwurm didn't try harder to chase us. Maybe it's become weaker? Maybe I hit it harder than I thought? Or maybe it LET us go? Every event leads to more questions in that forest. No matter the reason, it was time to go. We returned to Dyad, exhausted, but with newfound knowledge."
Midnight's Journal: After Dear Fellow Traveler
"An interesting time I think...
First mission with Officer Lore. I hope I proved myself well enough to her. Although honestly it ended in a bit of chaos.
See it was a mission to recover some stolen books. Simple enough I suppose. Requires a different sort of tactic than I'm used to but I can learn. Three books. Unfortunately they didn't have a fully clear visual description and apparently some worse things happened in that library then theft, so it made it a mild challenge.
The thief did leave a trail however. A scorch mark on the shelf and the smell of brimstone. Strange to think about. I had a dream about such a thing and that's what I smelled in that village when I saw the burning bush and footprints. Smell was awful but yet something draws me to it. Like it calls to me at times. Strange, but we managed to follow the trail to Sal's tower.
We scoped the place out a bit, figured out the security and it looked rather rough. We gave our real names, I assumed Lore had a plan and decided to follow it to the letter. Kept honest. Less chance of a slip up and I have an option if it becomes an issue anyways. Adli was noticed after transforming to do some work however by a frog girl named Rebecca who apparently has a thing for metal I guess? Weird, but hey, if it's her thing, it's her thing. Who am I to judge after all my escapades back home? Still, it was new, caught me off guard. Lore made a deal with her as she was flirting with Tarkus. A deal we'll have to eventually head back to fulfil. I know I'd be cross if we started breaking deals. Got to have some standards.
In any case, she told us about about Sal's hidden stash so we went to find Sal to lift the key. Lore distracted Sal for us as we acted as her security detail and with a bit of distracting, I used a little bit of magic to lift the key without Sal's security officer noticing. Heh, didn't even need to use my shadows. Just a light brush against him after activing a scroll in the dark, Lore grabbing his attention and bam, we had the key.
Trick was then getting out. I remembered the alert on Lore's communicator being a bit obnoxious. Strange device that. Does stuff other than communicate apparently? The fact it's related to Bobert though? Concerns me after what Caram has told me. Anyways, that gave her the excuse to get out, we left, went to go back to the tower, got in the elevator and began searching the penthouse. After some searching and fiddling with a trap, we got into the secret room. I found a cloak in the process that further had the brimstone smell. Not normally a thief, but you know... in for a penny, in for a pound? And honestly... something drew me to it. Don't know why or what but I'm sure it will become clearer in time.
Anyways, this is about the point everything went wrong. Lore somehow started a fire, alarms went off, and they were already in the building? Was a mad dash to find the books. I blocked off the fire and the entrance to buy us some time, but that time was going to be limited.. we grabbed the two we could find before decided we needed to go. Plan was initially to get out the window and I would use my shadows to glide us away. Adli however? Turned the entire tower into a plant... yes.. a plant. That was a bit much, but what's done is done? Anyways, out the window, we went, Tarkus a bit faster than the rest of us... Lio isn't going to be happy about that, but well, I tried to stop him and offer a safer path. Not much I could do to stop someone determined to make a massive splash.
After all that we decided to head home to lay low for a bit... on which note, I guess I made this recording out of habit. Leaving evidence of what was definitely a crime, even one that was in response to a clear crime itself? Probably not great. Well, guess I'm going to have to burn this one."
*click*
*The recording was burned shortly after it was made.*
Midnight's Journal: After creature
"Ugh, that was an absolute nightmare...
So first trip out of the shield we go to some apiary town that worships Beezus. Makes blue honey that tastes... different. I'm concerned about how that'll affect the mead. Like it didn't taste bad, but not what I'd expect from honey. The people were kind and welcoming at first, if a bit dodgy. Mostly I spent time helping out around and talking with the locals but eventually I got curious and extended my shadow out to try and feel the worst of the place's past. A risky prospect given the nature of our new world, but I had to give it a try eventually anyways.
I didn't see much.... but what I saw was concerning. No grand event. No crazy town lynching or massacre. Not even an attack on the town. All of which would be concerning in themselves of course. No.
I smelled brimstone.
I saw a burning bush. Bare humanoid footprints going out into the forest in the west.
The birth of some creature perhaps? Heading into the world with the darkest of intentions? It seems the most likely possibility. I've reported what I saw but we hardly had time to be looking into it.
See the townsfolk wanted us to stay for a feast and various homes played host to each of us. Certainly was kind of them, though I insisted on doing my share of the housework. A good house guest is as little of a burden as possible and tries to return the kindness after all. Regardless of if they welcome us back or not, I fully intend to send them a gift first opportunity I get. Whether they accept it is up to them, but I will not have it said that I am ungrateful.
Only problem was they wouldn't let us go out at night. Strange to say the least but we found out why when some of the crew snuck out and encountered a giant.. wasp? I suppose? The creature was dangerous but Vatna, Clem and Quet drove it off well enough. Stranger still was that the town wouldn't even talk about the things. It made no sense. Like why ignore them to that extent where you wouldn't even explain what they are to others? I wondered if they were for some reason being threatened but still, scouting seemed the best idea so Akhana, Isaac, Caram and myself went to check it out.
It didn't go well. We stumbled into some sort of ambush and I was down before I could react. By the time I regained consciousness we had been rescued apparently from their nest which the rest of the crew obliterated. Apparently they had to leave the town to save us which left the town very unhappy. I can't help but be a bit indignant at the people taking such offense. Do they care so little for the lives of comrades that they see hospitality as more important than helping others? Like I think about the idea of abandoning Akhana, Isaac or Caram just to make some new friends and I find myself sickened. I don't think I like these new people. Still, had I not been so overeager and overconfident... I almost led three of my comrades to their deaths. This world... this isn't Liminal. This world might actually be just as dangerous as my home. Might even hold some portion OF Meterra. I honestly don't know, but it is clear to me that I have to treat it like it is. I'll just have to avoid making the same mistake again."
*click*
Midnight's Journal: After Sleep is for the Weak
"The shield is finally down...
Most of the crew stuck around town to work with civilians while Krieg, Tobias, Royce and Catori went off to the Secret Recipe for supplies. Honestly wouldn't minded scouting out the surrounding waters for additional food, but it would definitely be better to have the extra support. The crew's mission was successfully but... there were definitely some lessons learned.
Apparently we currently rely on the library and our communicators for survival. At least as ourselves. It's a concerning prospect. Squishy is no longer quite himself and Catori got transformed though from what little I know of her she is mostly herself? Got to admit, I think the physical changes on her part are an improvement personally. Hopefully she agrees with that, but anyways... the situation does make me ask many questions about what this would mean. Like are those like Royce and Catori the only ones immune? Is it only silver and the communicator that'd provide protection? Is there a way to reverse what occurs? That last question brings the chisel I have to mind... not exactly going to test that possibility any time soon as the only way I can imagine doing so involves stabbing, so definitely a last resort prospect.
Either way it was nice getting some real food after all this time. It's unfortunate I couldn't take part in that hunt but I'm sure there will be plenty more opportunities in the future."
*click*
Midnight's Journal: "The World Changes"
"Liminal is gone. There is no other way to really put it. Worlds collapsed into themselves and formed something new. We've trapped ourselves in a shield to try and keep ourselves safe from what was coming and it seemed to work. How did we get here though?"
"Tea attacked the Word Tree we worked so hard to protect and then attacked the Silver Thimble where two new Word Trees had sprouted. I don't understand her reasonings. Was she trying to prevent what occurred or did she cause it? Either way she has made one thing utterly clear to me. She is a fool."
"Blaming the crew for everything that was happening? Claiming that we should know what was occurring? I'm getting very much tired of that bullshit kind of thinking. Take some real fucking responsibility. This crew is not perfect, but give them the opportunity to learn, they will learn. However, leaving some random book around and then not sticking around? That isn't warning of jack shit. I know I for one never got to see the book, and how would we know to trust it? What if we had questions? What if there were things that didn't add up? Dumping something on us and running is not a warning or teaching. It is the act of a pompous arrogant jackass who doesn't want to actually put in any real effort."
"The Librarian is the biggest evidence of this. Who other than the crew was actually pursuing that monster? Working to put a stop to him? Most of the universe didn't even know of his existence. Yet you come in here after we give everything we have to stop him and its not good enough? You can kindly fuck all the way off. We did what you would not and we have to deal with the resulting nonsense while you sit in your high perch all pretty, thinking of everyone else as children rather than taking one minute. One single moment to actually SIT DOWN AND TALK!"
"No one we run into seems capable of that basic decency. They just assume we should know, like there is some kind of magic force that should be planted into our minds. And frankly? I've grown tired of it... I won't tolerate that kind of nonsense anymore. One way or the other, I will make them speak, even if it is at the point of my blade. Until then, our situation is rough. Food rationing, being cut off from supplies... we've got a lot of work to do in our new home. Guess I might actually get the chance to do some real hunting again."
Midnight's Journal: "The Librarian's Defeat"
"We did it. We actually did it. The Librarian is beaten. Not in the way we had planned for a multitude of reasons, but we did it."
"It was rough going though... Nichol, we almost lost him. Apparently at some point a bomb was planted on him. We ended up watching him dive off the airship, unleashing one of his bolts of cold lightning on the Library to freeze it. It worked wonders, especially in combination of the anchoring effect we managed to get working on the buoys. Honestly I wasn't sure if the modification would work at all, but we did it. We actually did it. We halted the Librarian long enough to keep him from the word tree."
"The submarine team then did their work to blast open a whole in the Library for the strike team. I don't know much about how they did it as we had to respond to an attack on Yoke but Clem got inside and shut the thing down. We lost contact with him soon after however."
"That's when Royce, Joust, Pim, Quet and myself had our real part to play. We were the strike team. The ones who were going to finish the Librarian off. First we had to track down Clem. Turns out Pim is a good tracker too. Worked for me, her abilities were likely better suited for the situation. Sending my shadow out? I have no doubt the Librarian had preparations for that. Wouldn't have been ideal. Not that it was easy to hold back. Turns out the Librarian was waiting for us with Clem at his feet. At first it seemed like a trap. He pulled this trick before. Turns out it was a different trick with him altering gravity, catching Joust and Royce. I remember Pim rushing in to grab Clem and then the Librarian stabbing something into the Library's brain."
"At that moment, something changed. My emotions ran wild as I thought about everything that the Librarian had done, how he may have harmed Clem, how he likely killed Nichol, what he did to Royce and Patagon before? Couldn't think straight until I felt a snap. Then everything couldn't be clearer. I had to make the Librarian pay. I made the Librarian relive the moment he stabbed Patagon, putting the Librarian in Patagon's pace, disrupting his vision long enough to approach and stab him with the chisel. I didn't know if it would work, it was just a wild guess that I could maybe cut out a chunk of his power. A flash of blue runes later and the Librarian was staggered. Long enough for Pim to shoot him repeatedly, Quet to steal the quill, Joust to knock him in the air, myself to grab him with tendrils and slam him down and Royce to Smite him."
"...wait... Royce smited him... WHAT THE HELL WAS HE THINKING!? I mean, I was thinking about using my Shadow Devourer a while back if we didn't figure out another way to seal him and given that I know Smite has a similar potential side effect... this could be concerning."
*click*
Midnight's Journal: After Curses
"I swear on the Heart of the World that the Librarian will be destroyed. That he shall know no peace, no rest, no comfort if it is within my power to crush it. He has slain a crewmate today. While I did not know Royce well, he was clearly a great fighter, a great genius, and a great crewmember. He will be missed by many. I regret that I did not spend much time with him, but the missions we were on and my fights with and against him were joyous moments in my life. I will not forgive the one who took that away. I will not forget. The Librarian says he'll be coming? Well my fangs will be waiting.... and he will suffer."
"It makes me angry repeating what happened. But I must to make sure the memory never fades. We were on a mission to remove the silver mountain we crashed into Liminal. The main location of my first mission with him in fact. Where I met Tsoki as well. Royce seemed to know something was going to happen as he expressed as much to me when recruiting me for his team. I wasn't sure what to expect but I won't turn down a call for action from a crewmate."
"So away we went. To the engine room that once rested within the mountain. We soon found a strange rift within that Royce immediately jumped through. I didn't know what was going on at first. The figure inside was unfamiliar to me at first. However I couldn't leave him on his own with that rift soon closing so I followed. Inside was this paper man wearing a red suit reading a book in some strange world. I had my suspicions, but when Royce attacked and he soon summoned paper soldiers? I knew exactly what we were dealing with. The fight that ensued was challenging to say the least. We were knocked around to all sorts of scenes, all sorts of realities, fighting old memories, battling many clones of the librarians, battling his soldiers. It was overwhelming. I even resorted to testing out the Kukla's transformation magic. It worked thankfully. I can fully recharge it. Still, even that power was not enough. Not even with my Shadow Shroud magic in addition. We soon got dogpiled and overwhelmed. The strength of my transformation got me free but Royce had his arm broken by the Librarian while Akhana and Patagon were getting overwhelmed and buried. Royce was out of reach and I could only save one of the other two...."
"The choice.. was surprisingly easy. I have nothing against Patagon, but well, I know Akhana more. I know Lio had a crush on her, I know I enjoyed my interactions with her, while Patagon I hardly knew. He's just the communications guy. As cold as that might be to say. It's not that seeing him broken to an inch of his life is easy for me, it's not. Still, a choice had to be made quickly and I admit I acted purely on personal feelings. Still this may have been the right choice in the end. This was also the moment Royce was killed and sealed away in a book. A book we only retrieved because of Akhana. I knew at that moment with two of us down we had to get out. So with the Librarian not truly being there, I did the one thing I could. I unleashed all of the energy of my transformation into a single massive mass of shadow to hopefully disrupt him long enough to pull out the chisel from Tsoki's world and jam it into the fabric of reality."
"I thought for a moment I sensed the Librarian in pain but I was incredibly focused on escape at that moment. I didn't realize it until after Akhana confirmed the thought to me later. The important thing is though that we escaped... but the Librarian knows where we are now. He will be coming. When he does? I will make him beg for forgiveness."
*Click*
Midnight's Journal: After Villainous Thing
"Got woken up by some unearthly screaming last night. Still not sure what exactly that was but when I looked out the window, some strange giant bird creatures were flying away. Wasn't sure what was going on but I understood pretty quick that we would be heading out quickly enough so I headed straight for the docks. I was assigned to the airship to chase one of the birds towards the Word Tree."
"Horrifyingly, this creature opened up all the rifts along the way to the Word Tree, including one to some hell dimension. We stopped to deal with it and I decided given the rush we were in I would gamble on the lippy substance I gathered up during our trip in Yoke. See, I noticed the magical properties of the stuff sharing some similarity with Dragonstone back home. They're powerful mana crystals used to recharge an individual's magic with the downside of overcharging causing.. problems. What I saw in this substance was something similar but with a different potential side effect. In exchange for increase magical output there was a risk of illness. Seems a small cost when severe circumstances are involved. Especially with a certain Librarian lurking out there."
"Unfortunately this opportunity to test the substance out did not go well. I don't know if it was the lack of sleep after a long day working on navigation equipment, me having an off day, or if the sheer overwhelming power I felt disrupting my sense of balance. Perhaps it could even have been all of them in some combination. Either way, the end result was me struggling to stay onboard the airship during the intense maneuvers of combat. Had to be saved once by the new recruit Caram and once by the ever amazing Pim. Guess I owe both of them drinks or a favor after today, I'll leave it up to them. In any case, we managed to clear out the demons and I got the rift closed before we continued on our way to the Word Tree."
"When we arrived at the Word Tree we found the bird creature we were chasing picking through the Word Tree. Given the nature of the tree, this was absolutely an unacceptable risk. If it did something like rip our memories out of the tree, the potential danger would be catastrophic. Pim and B+ clearly saw this as well and blasted the thing into damn near oblivion. Enough where all it took was a chair thrown by one of the worpeltinger apprentices to finish it off. So after it's death throes sent us careening into the between for a bit, we eventually regained control and headed home."
"I definitely learned one thing today however. I can't rely on this lippy stuff as it is on its own against the oncoming storm. I need to readjust my battle plans accordingly. Save it as a desperate last measure or combine it with more favorable circumstances."
*Click*
Midnight's Journal: After Welcome to the World
"Well that was certainly an interesting time. Magical powers that turn me pastel pink, give me some crazy muscles and a shapeshifting cloak? Hah, crazy, right? It was enjoyable though."
"Nichol called me to help with a favor with the Kukla. It was my first time interacting with them. I'd heard mention of them but never saw them before. Was expecting to be impressed by this massive colorful bird. Instead? Turned out to me a tiny arrogant little snot that could use a good suplex. I kept quiet though for Nichol's sake. This was his job, I wasn't going to ruin it for him. Apparently he was only that small because he used up all his power fighting redcaps and needed our help negotiating with the people who left him so he could get more teeth. Reminds me of a certain situation where someone stole a lot of the crew's teeth... anyways, we had the Spindels in a volcano to the north and some fairies apparently hiding to the east and we were given some magical teeth with some of the Kukla's remaining power."
"I suggested we go North because the volcano situation reminded me of a little bit of a situation I had overheard Royce mention about him going to 'hell'. Don't know much of the details, I just remember it had to do with fiery rifts and them coming back smelling like sulfur. So my thoughts went to the prospect of 'what if volcanos can contain rifts in lava'? It honestly made me believe that the Spindel might be in the most potential danger. The others seemed to accept my reasoning so away we went, stopping to try and salvage some weird table thing. It didn't go well with Quet breaking her finger and Lio ultimately breaking the table. So we did things the old fashioned way. I acted as the pathfinder as we headed North. Reminded me of home really. Eventually during one of my scouting trips I found a hot spring that looked very red. Red water and an apparent Redcap incursion in the past? I had to check it out, so I approached and tried to get a good scent of the water to see if it smelled like blood like it appeared but slipped and fell in."
"Turns out I was more right to be concerned than I realized. Not only were there Redcaps in the water, but they had a clutch of eggs. I was spotted pretty quickly and at first that didn't worry me. I had my shadow magic after all and I had struck down some scarier creatures. Except small problem. My more powerful magic wouldn't work. I could bring out a little bit of my shadow but unleashing everything at once was just not going to happen. I had to retreat to the surface to collect my thoughts and get the assistance of the others. Thankfully the others were worried and arrived quickly. We would have a good fighting chance together I thought. But then something happened I can't quite explain. A sense of fear washed over me. Not the kind of fear I normally feel that excites me and gets my blood pumping. The kind of fear where I instead ran. This cold chill like I've never felt before. I ran... abandoned the group. The most shameful thing I've done in my entire life. I can't even explain it. There were worse situations in my life. Why would I betray everyone like that?"
"Thankfully my running had a positive effect in that I took two of the redcaps with me. So when I finally came to my senses I turned to fight them, invoking the power of the tooth. That's when the transformation happened. A strange, but amazing transformation. I felt like I had reached a physical peak in my new form. I had a body that I think even Aspara and Gus would have been jealous of. The strange outfit and fur color change were unsettling, but still, I couldn't get over the shift. There was also a strange energy to it. Like it was balancing something in myself. It was incredible. So incredible that the two redcaps that chased me didn't stand a chance. I pulverized them both and took a trophy from one of them. I think I'll be mounting it and putting it in my home at the Silver Thimble."
"When I returned to the others, apparently things were not going well. They were struggling a bit with the remaining two. I mean, they froze one but the other had Quet's hand. So I yanked it off them and held it down for them to finish off. We were then about to leave when I sensed something. There was a pulse of life from the redcaps and the eggs below still. I realized they still were a potential threat and called out a warning as I struck down at the frozen spring with all my might, shattering the redcap and the eggs. We then moved on to the north."
"This is around when we reached the spindel village. They were making things out of obsidian like crazy. They're lucky that they wear masks regularly. The dust from that stuff is not great to breath in. I also noticed Lio distinctly uncomfortable with the situation, though Nichol was there comforting him. I admit a little irritation as I felt I should have been the first to notice something was wrong, but can't always be the first to notice things I suppose. Not entirely sure what the issue was, but I do remember Lio's scar being caused by an obsidian blade. So perhaps all the obsidian was reminding him of that day. Anyways, apparently the reason they have stayed away was because the Kukla treated them like absolute garbage. I wasn't sure how to take that. We accepted a job and needed to complete in but at the same time? The Kukla clearly isn't a very good ruler. They're like an arrogant spoiled prince handed everything to them their entire life. They needed a lesson in humility. This was Nichol's call though and Quet handled conversing with them rather well. Eventually however we heard a roar and the sound of the volcano erupting."
"Getting a sense of things myself and Quet figured things were mostly safe for the city, especially thanks to some trenches which we went to check out. I thought maybe the Spindel prepared for this eventuality. But when Nichol led us to check it out? We found more redcaps. They had dug the trenches and assumedly triggered the eruption to try and destroy the Kukla's temple. All things aside if the Redcaps wanted the temple destroyed, that likely meant we didn't, regardless of what the Kukla had done, so we fought them. Myself and Lio took one while Quet and Nichol handled the other. At least until we saw this MASSIVE Redcap surfing down the lava. I made a mistake of throwing the redcap me and Lio were fighting at it. Apparently they have no respect for their allies as he just culled and fed on it, growing in strength. Nichol meanwhile tried to freeze the lava while Quet protected him. That last redcap was eventually taken care of before I had an idea and asked Nichol to create as large an ice lance as possible, Quet to electrify it and Lio to use his power to charge us up. I then took this lance into the hand my cloak formed and threw it at the last Redcap. It was a struggle at first. The cape had a problem handling all the power surging through it but remembering what was at stake I threw it and the attack obliterated the last Redcap."
"Had this strange feeling that I should have shouted, 'Shocking Radiant Diamond Lance' while doing it too, but who shouts their attack names? Really? Hah!"
"Anyways, with the lava frozen and the redcaps dead, we returned to the Spindels. Apparently them and the Kukla worked something out so maybe the spoiled prince learned a lesson in humility after all? If so, good, maybe they won't be an utter trash ruler after all. Either way, with all of us drained from travel and battle, we decided we needed to leave the fairies for another time. They couldn't be in THAT much danger comparitively, right? We were also allowed to keep the teeth we were given, though their power has been drained. I think I will hold onto it though. Turn it into a necklace. Who knows, maybe one day it will come in handy again."
*click*
Midnight's Journal: After They Know Me
"Secon- ow, hurts to talk. Ahem. Won second place in the tournament today. It was far more interesting than that however."
"I'd been practicing my shadow manipulation for this day for my morning exercises and it ultimately paid off. I was able to pull off some of the old tricks I used to back home. Not quite all of them but enough of them to be effective. I ended up being a seeded match so I didn't get to fight in the first round. Disappointing, but you know what? It afforded me an opportunity for a rematch against Aspara."
"My match with Aspara went surprisingly quickly. She told me upfront she wasn't going to hold anything back and naturally out of respect I intended to do the same. None of my opponents were going to get off lightly in this tournament. This was a meeting of warriors! A clashing of fists! The kind of experience I had back home! I would not dishonor it by treating it with kid gloves. The match ended almost immediately when I turned Aspara's charge against her, smashed her into a wall and then slammed my fist covered in shadow magic against her chest. Hopefully didn't break her collarbone too badly."
"My next came against Pollux and Castor. I've not seen them much so don't know them too well and as such wanted to end the fight quickly. I tried to let them know my actions were out of respect for them as a fellow crew member and tried to pull them in with my shadow whip while activating my tattoo. They managed to defend so the battle ended up being a bit more prolonged, but ultimately I came out the victor, grasping them with my shadows and forcing a surrender. I'm getting ahead of myself there however. The crew was accused of cheating during this match. I'm not sure WHY they would accuse us of such. It irritated me but as we were given the opportunity to restart the match I tolerated it... for the moment."
"However then another match came up. This guy that was our liason for the match? Adders? He just goes nuts, bulks up like a berserker and demands a fight with members of the crew. Royce took up the challenge and I decided I'd see how things played out. Would have liked to be the one to fight, but eh, they were quicker to the draw. Already in the arena. Unfortunately Royce lost. Corsica stormed in followed by Pollux and Caster. Both of them were beaten. With this Adders guy threatening the crew and ruining the matches however I wasn't going to let it go and unleashed my shadow beast upon him, knocking him clean out. I admit, he was probably softened up for me, but I'll take it."
"We managed to get the fights going again and after Royce finished up his match it was me against him. Wolf on Dwarf, just like back home! And an officer who could use a nice punch to the face after the whole mountain incident. I was look forward to it. Honestly, I couldn't land a blow in the end. It was like fighting a supercharged Notroc. The man as some incredible punches. He ripped through my shadows and then knocked me out. After that it was a bit of a blur. Heard some talking... felt a towel hit my face... I think Akhana? Heh... honestly I was more expecting Lio would be the one to check on me first, the little worrier. But I'm not complaining."
"Either way, Royce was a worthy opponent. I don't feel bad about losing to him, but I will have to get a rematch one of these days, once I grow a bit stronger."
Midnight's Journal: After Broken
"A rather noisy night tonight"
"Apparently a piece of the sub's engine went messing. I hadn't heard anything but offered to send my shadow to go look for it if they couldn't find any other information. Turns out it wasn't needed however. Works out for me. I'm a little short on magical energy at the moment. Maybe I should make that a future project, figure out how we can more reliably source restoratives for magical energy. We'll see. I'm sure there will be people I can talk to."
"Anyways, that aside, apparently the search also resulted in a bomb going off in the Captain's home. Attracted the attention of much of the crew. Thankfully no one was killed but still, I don't particularly appreciate someone trying to kill the Captain. Going to need to find out who did that. Wasn't there also a bomb that went off a while back at that hotel? I wonder if it's related. Could be entirely separate though. Bombs aren't my expertise and I suspect we weren't exactly great about collecting evidence of either incident. The crew is a bit cavalier and nonchalant about this kind of stuff to a sometimes frustrating degree. I'm concerned it's going to get someone killed. Maybe I should take it upon myself to look into it next time an incident happens."
"Anyways, ultimately we became focused on fixing up the Captain's place. Most of us don't really work with architectural construction though and with the Captain's irritation? I wasn't going to let any of that anger get directed my way. I went and woke up the construction crew working on the stadium since I knew they worked with the Captain in the past. I'm sure I owe them a favor at some point because of it, but small price for making sure the Captain is happy. Turned out great too from what I could tell. I was half worried there were going to be scratching posts everywhere or weird spider stuff with the way Seth was talking."
"Speaking of which, found out today that Seth is scared of ghosts. See, Royce returned from the mission via a head he apparently possessed and was flung all the way from Parliament City. Was worried they blew up the airship but apparently everything is good. They got the missing part back and everything apparently. Anyways, yeah, can't entirely blame Seth being scared of ghosts. Some of the particularly powerful ones are the most lethal creatures you can face if not necessarily the strongest. I can attest to that personally. A little concerned though what he might think of me in regards to the implications of my weakness to holy water. In particular how essentially a part of myself disappeared for a time. While I'm all but certain that I have demonic blood in my veins because of that event, I could see it having ghostly implications to others."
"Eh, probably fine. He saw me summon my shadow beast, right? Probably twice even if he was around during that first White Cap attack. What would be scarier from that perspective then that?"
End of Recording...
Midnight's Journal: After Valhalla's Calling
"A world conquered by giant whales with some kind of rainbow magic... a world I was quite fond of. The fight with Aspara and Gus was one sided, sure, but I was looking forward to maybe returning to the arena there. Doing more drinking and singing. Now though? Things will have to change for its people as we have evacuated them to Liminal. A people driven from their home, likely to never see it again. My greatest sympathies to them."
"What in the nine hells was up with Tsoki though? At the end he reacted strangely and used one of our more powerful magic items. I suppose I'll save that for the moment."
"To start with, Pim, B+, Ento, Vatna and Lore were called by Aspara and Gus to assist them in protecting that world full of rabbits that reminded me of my home. It was disappointing I couldn't join them directly but they were going to need heavier firepower, so we needed to make our own way back with the airship while they used the underground doorway. It probably would have been a simpler task had I not been black out drunk after our first trip there. I have a pretty good sense of direction after all. Unfortunately my entire memory of going there is largely foggy. So we had to wing it a bit. And by wing it I mean that Nicholas ripped a hole in one of the hallways. I'm going to have to finish up production versions of my buoys sooner rather than later so I can mark things like that for later repairs. Not comfortable with the risks doing something like that causes."
"Anyways... method aside, we did manage to make it to the proper world just fine. Unfortunately there was some rainbow shield around it along with an armada of ridiculously massive ships. Tsoki managed to shoot one down while I shielded the ship and Nicholas evaded fire but eventually we were forced through the rainbow barrier. Made it through with only a bit of damage, but it wasn't over yet. There was already a ship within the barrier. One that the away team had infiltrated. Apparently we had good timing as they needed a withdrawal. The beings we were fighting were too massive and powerful for them to deal with. We made a quick stop on a nearby island that I don't have all the details of what occurred on, but soon after we moved to the village to begin evacuation, evading fire from the whale creatures. That's when it happened..."
"Tsoki suddenly had runes glowing blue all over him. Not long after he looked like he saw a ghost and rushed to honk the magic clown horn. The one we got from the World Fair that temporary turns an entire world into essentially clowns for a short period. It was a bit of a strange experience but we got everyone out safely before using the island we stopped at to return home. When I asked Tsoki about it he simply told me that I didn't want to know. If I had to guess he had one of his seer visions. First time I'd have seen it first hand, but if I'm right, I'm guessing he saw us all die? Either way, I plan on covering his drinks for a while. Hopefully eventually he'll tell us what he saw exactly so we can prepare for whatever it was next time we run into those whales."
End of Recording
Midnight's Journal: After A Bard's Tale
"Audio Journal of Midnight Erebus, #2.... do I really need to start these things this way? Hmm.... ahh forget it, I'll figure it out somehow..."
"We ended up going into the Between for a music lesson. It was intriguing. I was introduced to a form of music I had never heard before. Perhaps that might be the style of song I go for for my project. Not sure yet but the sound certainly fits my old friend the best."
"Beyond that mostly the usual chaos. Going through a wild ride through some moths... encountering some interesting communication technology that I'm willing to bet we could adapt, though that's not really my field."
"What was most intriguing however was our detection of our current worst enemy. It was only for a moment, but that moment definitely caught my attention. I plan on recording what I can of the event as perhaps we can plot his travels. I do have some concern about what he is doing. The fact he went to Tsoki's home makes me wonder if perhaps he intends on visiting the homes of all the crew he can. Not sure what he intends exactly but it can't be anything good. Thus why I plan on recording all I can. Perhaps in the future we will run into more places he has visited and discover an answer."
The rest of this recording provides technical details of all the data Midnight has been able to extract from the detector so far.
Midnight's Journal: After Where You'll Find Me Now
"Midnight Erebus, Personal Audio Entry #1"
"After the crew's mission out in the between, we returned to learn that the group that went to Yoke were put on trial. Not sure how to feel about the prospect but it seems to be water under the bridge as they were found not guilty. We did learn something interesting however. Apparently in Yoke they knew things that were supposed to be forgotten? They claim it's because they record their records on these wax cylinders into an audio format and take photographs."
"It's an interesting prospect as it's an idea I toyed with as soon as I learned about the technologies from Lio. Technically sound and pictures aren't writing after all. Though at the same time I had received conflicting statements that all knowledge was recorded on the tree. This means I'm not completely sure about the accuracy of Yoke's statements but it seems to be a start of some sort. It makes me wonder about my conversations with Quet recently. I believe what they told me was spoken from the best of their own knowledge, but perhaps even they don't have the complete picture. Either way, I think I'll take advantage of the possibility from now on in my journals. We've lucked out so far that my writings about the Ice Ban- *ahem* the creatures that I faced back home haven't appeared so far in one of those flowers. I'm still curious why such a thing hasn't occurred. Perhaps there are additional factors."
"All of that aside, let's talk about the mission a little. My pet project is working. There was great risk taken in setting them up but we have a chance now. It is incredible to think about. I helped create something that will not only help to protect Liminal but will be able to be used for so many other purposes with a bit more tinkering. Even in my currently diminished state, I can't help but feel a sense of pride burning in my heart. There has been so much I've learned in my time here and all the hard work, the reading, the experimenting, it is all finally paying off. Nilly... Tsoki... Lio... all of you have been such an inspiration to me for just what is possible. I will say however, I'm still convinced they can be improved. Vatna's control over the rifts has definitely helped make me wonder what all the possibilities are. How do those threads of theirs work? Could they provide better ways of securing the buoys? Transmitting signals? Turning them into massive webs to ensnare invaders? Perhaps. However, Vatna is only one moth. To ask all of this of them? It's not exactly reasonable. So I need to consider how to bring the subject up to them, how to make it clear that I don't want to overdo it. There are already two overworking bundles of cuteness to worry about. Let's not create a third."
"Now let's see... how do I get this thing to stop recording? Is it this button?" *click*
Midnight's Journal: After Veldt
Something is missing... something important. I don't feel like myself anymore.... I don't know how to describe it...
It all began when we, that being Lio, Vatna and myself, assisted Tsoki with his presentation. Suddenly he couldn't read his own language. The words were meaningless. Yet we knew Tsoki wrote it all so it made no sense. Until it clicked in mine to some extent. I had just recently had a discussion with Quet on the subject. Something stole the memory away. I didn't want to believe it to be honest. Was the Librarian already here? Had he recovered so quickly? We went to investigate, eventually ending up taking the airship to find our way back to Tsoki's world.
It was an interesting trip to say the least. I had certainly studied the controls for a great while with my role in Navigation, but I'd never actually flown the airship. It was enjoyable and seemed to go well enough. Safely got there with my newfound knowledge of rifts and landed safely at Tsoki's home. Apparently everyone on his world had forgotten. Worse? On the way, Lio picked up the signal of the Librarian. He had been there. He had stolen from Tsoki's Word Tree. It's strange... I remember a fire inside me that threatened to boil over but now? It angers me, but I don't feel like I'm fighting it down anymore. I'll get to that in a moment.
After a disastrous attempt to make ice stairs by one of the apprentices, we flew down into the valley to the entrance of a forest. Snow and ice was everywhere after the disaster. We made it to their tree fine however. It was quite the sight. A tree of nothing but rune-etched acorns. I imagine such a sight would make the residents of Yggdrasil quite happy. Hmm... Yggdrasil... I wonder if that is our Word Tree? It's quite a massive tree... and while it's just leaves that sprout from it, it is a font of powerful life magic. Perhaps if it is such a tree, it etches knowledge on the flow of magic itself? A thought to explore if I ever return home. Another sight that reminded me of Yggdrasil however? A giant squirrel guardian. Ok, we don't have giant squirrels as far as I know, but Yggdrasil is a nation of squirrelfolk. So the comparison still fits some. Anyways, the guardian apparently didn't seem the happiest to see us at first, but it needed help.
The tree was damaged. Knowledge had faded away from some of the nuts as a result of the Librarian's actions and we may have ended up knocking some stuff down ourselves with the whole ice situation. We patched that up fine and were going to work before all hell broke loose. Rifts summoning demonic looking creatures... the guardian squirrel crawling through one... and massive demon coming out of our attempt to recover the guardian? And during all of this? I jumped through Vatna's vial of that strange 2D holy fire. It seemed like it'd be fine. I just had to go through fast and any heat wouldn't be an issue, right? Besides, I was hungry to try out my upgraded weapon. The result? My shadow is gone... why is it gone? It makes no sense, holy magic doesn't work like that where I'm from. Shadow is just shadow! Like the night is just the night. The moon doesn't burn away the night, it's just part of the night. The only thing that makes sense is something that I have trouble accepting.
One of my parents had to have been a demon or demon blooded. Yet if that's true.... it had to be my father. Demons pass on their elemental affinity and emotional affinity as a dominant trait. My mother was ice affinity, so if I'm right, that means it came from my father. My biological one. It also explains something else... I always had an affinity for fear. My magic awoke through my own fear, being surrounded by the fear of others always stirred me to greater action. My love for adventure and danger? My adrenaline seeking behavior? There is always a tinge of fear. It is strange to think about. I don't hate it. I'm still me, regardless of it. Demonic heritage doesn't define one's entire being after all. The danger comes from those who embrace their affinities in destructive ways just like anyone else, just with different motivations, biology... weaknesses. In fact without that side of me I feel a bit empty. Like the part of me that has spurred me on to action has weakened. Like the ambition and sense of adventure that burned in my blood has dimmed.
I need to explore this. Discover what it all means to me. However before I can do that? I have to fix it. It's also a bit freaky not having a shadow. I'm kind of afraid to look in the mirror to be honest, because if I'm not blocking light then.... what would I even reflect? I'm not sure...
Still, despite my unease? We did restore Tsoki's word tree. It came from a rather reckless transfusion from Liminal's. Something else that probably isn't going to have the best repercussions but better than it dying. Bad, but best option among all bad options. After which? Tsoki received some sort of vision from the guardian squirrel. One in which he saw the Librarian. We don't know where he's currently heading, but we know he will be coming our way at some point. We rushed home through the rift Vatna created. It angered the scholars, and the apprentice flipping them the bird didn't help but I did manage to use a scroll to send a message. To warn them of what was coming. Hopefully serving as an explanation for why we would need to rush. I don't know if they believe me, but if it doesn't at least spur them to look among the pages related to us to confirm and plan for his arrival? Then I don't know what purpose they serve.
I think that's enough writing for now. I think I'm going to lay down. Feeling a bit queasy.
Midnight's Journal: After Bookwyrm
A strange day to say the least. We went through the rift to explore somewhere? Then went to some giant worm eating itself that apparently had a library inside? Probably one of our strangest trips. Not something I would question had events not played out the way they did.
I was at my station, taking scans. Nothing really stood out to me really. Think I was practicing some rift calculations during the off time? Nothing major but then suddenly we got attacked by paper soldiers. Strong ones. Incredibly so. I hadn't had a fight like that in a while. Both myself and Lio were getting pushed back pretty hard to the point that I actually resorted to finally enchanting my blade with the full force of my shadow magic while Lio bought me time. It helped me cut my way through the soldiers, working to keep them away from the engine.
The rest of the crew struck in similar ways. The Captain, in particular I feel unleashed a particular impressive bit of hell on them with her storm magic. A sight to behold for sure. By the end of it a voice rang out from one of the damage soldiers, shouting that they will return and will have revenge. For what reason? Clearly they fought with the away team but what caused the fight? Was it an origami person? It would explain the soldiers and why when looking through their sliced up paper bodies we got pieces of some incredible and heroic stories. Things like what are told about the founders of my home village kinds of impressive.
It reminds me of some of the unease I had about the Word Tree. Perhaps I was wrong about the Word Tree itself? Maybe there are beings of that sort however that have the will to manipulate the power of Word Trees to their own ends though? I'm not sure. There are still too many questions. What I do know however is that he attacked our ship. He hurt our crew. If I ever meet them? I will not hold anything back. We came far too close to disaster. Far too close to our destruction. We can't let ourselves be caught unprepared like that again.
Midnight's Journal: After Palm Reader
A rather simple mission for most of the crew this time around. Go to Yoke, help out around town.
Before heading out I made sure to pick up a magic scroll in preparation to heal the damaged land as one of their major issues were their fields. Apparently Tsoki had the same idea and we both ended up working together to heal the land. It seemed to work well enough. I think they'll be able to start growing things again immediately. At least I hope. It's a wait and see situation.
My next priority was the drug situation though apparently some of the other crew had already been well on the way treating that and helping out in the slums. With that handled then I went to speak with the soldiers who were apparently not really wanted around Yoke and listless. Back home it would be easy to get such people speaking. Share you stories of hardship and triumph and often they'll share the same. However I couldn't catch any of their interests. They'd let me talk to them, but then move off, like they were bored. A strange reaction to say the least. The drug withdrawal perhaps? No, else such a problem would have been more widespread, wouldn't it? Perhaps they've lost all hope but then, such a situation would usually lead to one's interest being piqued given an opportunity I feel. So if it's such a thing, it is more like their very spirit is broken. It's a difficult puzzle piece together.
Also need to find out what was going on with that Rhino guard. He just stormed past just shouting variations of "No", going all the way out of town. I don't really know what to say about that. Maybe I'll ask around the crew about it. Things were going far too well around town overall, so I can only imagine there was something that blew up spectacularly elsewhere.
Midnight's Journal: After Diners, Dungeons & Dives
So that could have gone a bit better all things considered...
The goal was to get Pim and Lio to the top unharmed. I failed that miserably. By the time we got to the restaurant they were exhausted. Should have insisted they stayed behind me after the shark but this was THEIR day. I wasn't about to start an argument with them. Perhaps I should have. Maybe they'd have been better off. Then again, the food was refreshing? But apparently not nearly as good as advertised. No wish granting or anything of that sort... or perhaps there was. Myself and Vatna performed some music for the two and their date seemed to go well despite everything. As for myself? They had it. They actually had it! Mead from my home village! Not just any mead, but the Applemint Cyser Mead! How did they get that!? I'm going to have to invite some select people for when I open that. Share the story of my fallen friend. My brother. It will be a day of mourning, but also celebration. It had been so long since I could share a drink in his honor. Now? I finally can.
As for the events leading up to the restaurant. We passed through an underwater floor with a very obnoxious shark... and an interesting octopus brain creature? Unfortunately our reservations were on a time limit so we couldn't take it up on its offer. Pim got bitten pretty bad by the shark but managed with minimal injury. I tried driving it away a few times, but it insisted on causing trouble. Would have loved to make a necklace from its teeth. Second floor? Armored golems protecting keys, Vatna got some magic key and we mostly smashed right through that floor. Third was an ice floor with some strange penguins with mouths in their belly and long tongues and some other strange creature. Made that floor quite simple with my shadows especially. Got a bit of treasure along the way too. Fourth was an elevator with a puzzle. Just some skeletons and a puzzle. Last was where the problems were. Traps all over the place, wearing us down. We disabled and destroyed the traps as we could but after I blasted away a bunch of the traps? Some weird bearded rabbit guy with a cockatrice attacked us. It was an absolute nightmare. He managed to flail about, doing a lot of harm to Pim in particular which combined with his cannibalism? Angered me. I was going to let the shadows devour HIM. Poetic justice. But the others killed him before I got an open shot. Probably for the best. I helped finish off the cockatrice and we moved on, rushing through. A mistake as Lio then fell into a pit of centipedes, once again proving the point that I should have made a bit more of a fuss. Pulled him out well enough though.
Thinking about it, I REALLY should have made that fuss. There is no reason we should have gone through all that without me even getting a scratch. Where's the fun in that? The couple getting all the injuries while I get off untouched? It's embarrassing! I need to do something to make it up to them. But what?
Midnight's Journal: After R.Y.L.A.H.
So another mission. We decided to finally take action against that storm the explosion of our previous sub caused. Not something I expected to be much help with so I stuck around on the new sub while the airship and away team went ahead.
It was pretty routine for the most part at first. Just keeping an eye on the navigation controls as we arrived on site. Then the giant Lippies came, skittering around on the sub. For a moment I thought we'd get a chance to try out some of the new features. I for one wanted to wrestle them with the sub's new arms. Smash them into each other and the like. Captain decided we should make sure not to agitate them however. Suppose I can't blame her being a bit cautious with the new sub. Apparently Vatna opened a rift and Lio used some magic to lure them into it? Seemed like a riskier option to me than combat in many ways but Vatna's mastery over rifts is rather substantial it seems. Also have to admit, seemed a rather extreme measure. Either we killed a very large number of them or we unleashed them onto another world. Was that really the right choice? I guess we'll see.
Anyways, not entirely clear what happened after that situation happened. Apparently some science experiment based on my World Fair project went horribly wrong and caused some chaos? I'm going to have to study what they did with my idea. Maybe they solved some of the problems I hadn't figured out yet, particularly with materials. Obviously wouldn't want to exactly replicate it as they went far too high risk too quickly. Nilly would have probably agreed with the idea that high risk came with high reward, but even she knew to limit the scope of testing new alchemical projects to a scale that she could control. She wouldn't test a new bomb by making it large enough to destroy a village for example. She'd keep the yield lower until she understood its properties. Those nuns however seemed to have jumped straight to "Let's blow up a mountain!"
Anyways, before said project blew up entirely, apparently they did accomplish creating some sentient magical creature. I admit I'm curious about it. They apparently fought it at first but it gained sentience soon after? When I heard the message to save it, I used one of the scrolls I made to focus my shadows into a solid platform to send up to the group, then followed instructions to contain the creature until it could be talked to. Things almost went wrong pretty quickly after that. LETO was trapped in the storm. We were given orders to withdraw however despite the risk to his life. I wanted to move the forcefield to help him but with the withdrawal and the distance, that wasn't exactly an easy thing to do. Luckily, LETO ended up absorbing the storm into himself and survived! That was quite an amazing and inspiring feat. I'm impressed!
Oh and apparently I missed Lio asking Pim out. Makes me regret staying on the sub as I really wanted to see that. Means I'll just have to get some plans ready before their date. It's a shame Akhana isn't going to be available around that time. I was going to be sneaky and invite her along just to mess with Lio and see where things go. Perhaps this is for the best though. Take things slower rather than the added risk her inclusion might have caused. Still, I'm going to make a point to bring some things along for them and act as their errand boy best I can. Not exactly a dignified position, but hey, it'll be worth it to not only help Lio out, but to mess with him as much as I can. In any case, I need to see if I can track some stuff down from Pim's home town... wonder if I can talk to a few of her siblings. Bet they'll have some of the best ideas.
Midnight's Journal: An Interesting New Sword
So one of the more recent missions apparently resulted in the team bringing back some pieces of a magical weapon. Not particularly an uncommon occurrence in itself. What is more uncommon is that this weapon has ended up in my hands. Looking it over, I can see why they'd possibly decide I'd be a good fit. The aura that comes off the sword is hair-raising. I can't help but feel a bit invigorated by it even. It's the kind of feeling though that would give most others the creeps however I think.
The only problem I see with it currently is the repair job. Did they use that duct tape stuff on it? Seriously? It's keeping in place surprisingly well, I'll admit but it doesn't seem like an ideal way to treat a sword though. Not to mention keeping the blade temporarily steady and making sure it holds up in combat are two very different things. I'm not sure how much I can trust using it. At the same time though, I should give it a good test run. See how good the sword is and what it does exactly. If it proves worthwhile, I'll just have to see about either giving it a proper repair job or figure out how I can capture its power and put it into a more sturdy shell.
First though I'll have to wait for a proper helpless target that needs finishing off to test it on before I make that decision.
(Sword is here: https://www.worldanvil.com/hero/log/post/6eb5cdd9-b3dd-4311-a40b-02b02eb37c5d)
Midnight's Journal: After Pretty Little Things
So apparently we're on hole digging duty... not exactly how I expected to spend my day. Didn't go all that great at first as apparently the cats don't really know what they're doing and ended up causing a collapse.
Not exactly the most pleasant experience, feeling a bit beaten up at the moment and tore up another uniform a bit. Frustrated with the situation, I just started invoking my father. He insisted on getting all his material himself for his blacksmithing so he had a small mine in the mountains that he taught me about when I was younger. Apparently I remembered more about it than I thought as in my frustration I put together some groundwork for the digging crew to properly reinforce the tunnel and provide for a lift so HOPEFULLY that nonsense won't happen again. That depends on them though... and those two mole people that they hired? Apparently they enjoy their alcohol so maybe they'll be interesting to hang out with.
In any case, I'm going to go lie down in the medical bay... feeling a bit woozy. This is why I never to mining. Digging is boring and dangerous, and not the fun kind of dangerous.
Midnight's Journal: After Hello Tomorrow
So ended the day naked in public and smelling like lemons. At least I feel cleaner than ever. Guess that slime stuff isn't so bad after all if the formula gets adjusted a bit? Either way, the burner that had the remnant of it has been passed along to the science department. Whether they destroy it or learn to control it? Up to them. Just hopefully whatever they do I don't have to deal with that chemical smell EVER again. Was nasty. All in all, it's been an interesting day. Suppose I'm lucky I'm not one of those fleshy beings with all their dangly bits exposed. Pretty sure there'd have been problems.
Anyways, I'm not exactly being clear with what happened today. Long story short, I got picked to be one of the judges for the World Fair. I didn't really have as much to ask most of the presenters as the others, largely because they pretty well covered most of what I had and then some. The most notable entries were a a mushroom covered canine called Nicholas, some otter whose name I missed, a Spindel named Millie Bays I think, Akhana, and the pairing of Peanut and Rupert. Going to keep most of my scoring to my notes which I'll copy down into my journal too. All the while in between we went to El Pea's little game set up. A set up that involved very clearly rigged games, but allowed us to use whatever methods we chose to get through them. I did ok my first couple tries. Third I basically crushed my foot with that damn enchanted hammer. We did however manage to get ahold of a powerful magic item though. Might come in handy in the future.
As for the presentations, two things happened of significant concern. First off, somehow information about the heart crystal leaked. Either the owl talked or we have an information leak. I'm hoping it's the former but I fail to see how it could be. How would he know we didn't destroy it? He was unconscious, wasn't he? Maybe not? Something to consider.
The other concerning bit? The awful awful cleaning slime presentation from Millie Bays went wrong. Very... and grew into multiple massive slimes that endangered the fair. There weren't many options. Tranquilizers worked but a prolonged fight could spread quickly. I used a spell scroll to summon a tornado which seemed to work for a time, but only delayed the issue. Someone or multiple someones from the crew? Summoned a storm of acid rain that caused all the blobs, including the ones I caused to start floating away, to merge into a massive blob. At that point we just called for sniper and artillery fire from the ship and hoped it'd kill it rather than scatter it. Unfortunately I was a bit too close to the creature and got pulled into it during it's death kneel. Perhaps it was calling for help? I say this because I saw in a brief moment something in the slime. The burner that was used in the presentation it turns out as I pulled it free with a small amount of the slime remaining. The very thing I turned over to the science department, making sure they were aware of that possibility. It's also how I ended up basically naked, only my pockets surviving. I suppose those extra layers helped. Seriously though, if we could get something like that with a strong ginger scent though, wouldn't be so bad? Maybe? And a better disposal method than it farting bubbles? Like if it was just trained to spit the gunk out into the trash or something. There's certainly potential, just some MAJOR issues to work out. A pet slime that could give you the feeling of a fresh bath while out on the road would be amazing. Wouldn't replace baths entirely as relaxing in them is part of the point, but it'd be nice still. Especially if there was a variety that removed or masked scents in a more subtle manner? Would be a great hunter's tool. I ranked it poorly for a wide variety of reasons, but I think the concept was actually one of my favorites. It's just everything that COULD go wrong, did. I'm just glad I didn't eat it as apparently it actually is sentient.
Wait... they seemed to slip up and say they FOUND something, but insisted they created the slime and programmed it? What if both are true... what if this is the original they found and what we found is the sentient creature? I don't know if I'm right, but I'm writing a note to the science department about that information immediately so they at least examine that possibility before just killing it or something.
Midnight's Notes: The World Fair
Judge Notes:
Nicholas - 3.5/5
Mushroom experiments
Great concept.
Could dig a cave system around the Silver Thimble, farm them using water brought in from central pool? They didn't suggest it but maybe will offer the suggestion to the city planners.
Experimentation methods could use work. Randomly throwing mushrooms at problems is a good way to get people poisoned.
Otter with the Horse Experiment - 2/5
Capturing big and small creatures and vivisecting them to study for more normal sized creatures.
Seems needlessly cruel? Like even as a hunter myself I'm unsettled by that.
Why not look into better meat processing methods? Larger butchering teams with large cutting equipment? Magic assistance? Ruins the challenge of the hunts?
Capturing method too rudimentary... no detailed plan to use ALL the material brought to them.
Why not invest in rift research to bring creatures here?
Millie Bays - 1/5
Chemical "semi-sentient" cleaning slime
OH GOD THE SMELL! KILL ME KILL ME KILL ME! Ginger scent it or something! MY NOOOOOOOSE
Akhana - 4/5
Communication crystal accessorization
Endless possible uses. Akhana doesn't realize the full implications of what we have.
This goes well beyond normal communication uses. The audience bringing up personal broadcasting and music broadcasting were right on the money.
The danger of the crystals is concerning.
Peanut & Rupert - 4/5
Digging a hole to the other side of Liminal
Is Liminal actually flat or otherwise unusual shaped? I know Meterra is spherical. There is a whole wide variety of reasons that is the shape that makes the most sense but Liminal is not normal.
Dungeons? There are dungeons underground? Interesting.... I'd love to delve them. Underground ruins in my world are plentiful, but that's due to old civilizations. Occasionally you'll find things living in them, but rarely have they don't more than repair what was already there.
What kind of equipment are they actually going to build? It's intriguing.
Midnight's Private Journal: After Teeth
I think this is the first time the crew has seen my darker side.
Last night we had a party to celebrate the completion of our new ship. A worthy thing for a party. I drank more than I have in a long while. Celebrating with everyone I could, convincing Corzipa to drink as I asked about their last adventure, singing songs, and so on.
Unfortunately what I awoke to the next day was a nightmare. When I pulled myself out of bed, everything seemed normal. However I soon found out that many of the crew and others had teeth missing. Some were even left unconscious. This included Tsoki who was missing ALL of their teeth. I felt anger boil up in me. What if he never woke up for some reason? What about his teeth? What would happen to them? What if whatever was done to them had been worse and ended their life? Someone had to pay for this. I would make them pay myself if I got my hands on them. Regardless of another team being on it, I wanted to be a part of the chase. Lio tried to calm me down, but he wouldn't speak directly. Turned out he has a victim as well and had his two front teeth taken.
Both of my best companions here were harmed. I howled in rage, swearing revenge upon whoever did this. First though... I had to reduce the harm that was done. There was a meal from my home for hunters to recover from severe injuries. Not always the best tasting but nutritious. Wasn't sure if I could find what was needed but searching and asking around town and nearby I found enough similar stuff to bring to the kitchen. Some was even better, some strong healing herbs in particular that worked well with the recipe. So I brought it all to the kitchen and made it a point to bring a serving to Tsoki. After feeding him, he woke up surprisingly fast. I brought him up to speed before heading out to keep watch around town for anything that might help the investigation team.
Thankfully they managed to catch them. Cree is their name. As soon as I heard, I tried to make good on my promise to myself, full of anger and rage. I don't know what I planned to do, just that I wanted Cree to never even consider harming us again. To never DARE touch any of us ever again. How I'd do that? I don't know. Just was following instinct at that point. Some of the crew has cooler heads than I though and made a point to stop me. Lio's pleading for no violence also stuck out in my mind. I realized the situation was done. It was already handled and what I was doing wouldn't help any. If Cree ever got free and threatened us again, perhaps that'd be one thing, but for now that was not the case.
So now I'm just left asking a single question. Why? Why would they do such a thing? Perhaps I'll ask about it in the morning or another time. Mentally prepare myself, make sure Lio and Tsoki are around to pull me back if I begin to lose control again. I should also start busying myself with my project. Wasn't initially planning on presenting it at the Fair but... why not? Might not be of particular interest to most in this place, but it's not like I'm full of ideas like this. Might as well dedicate myself to what I have, right?
Midnight's Private Journal: After Ante Up
I don't like when secrets are kept from me. Not at all.
Mission started simply enough. A travel through the desert with Officer Krieg leading the way. He's not a bad pathfinder. Got us to the nearest town without any hassle at all. While overlooking the town I used my shadowseek ability to try and pinpoint where the boxes we were looking for were. Didn't have the clearest idea given the surroundings but got some reasonable information about what we'd be looking for so we used our kites to glide down into town. Didn't take long for the locals to take notice.
Apparently Quet's questioning about this town's name of M.O.P. and rightfully comparing it to the word "mop" offended the town. Little bit strange. I thought that was part of the point of shortening names down to an abbreviation like that? Weird abbreviation to choose, but eh, at least it didn't start a real fight. However what was interesting is that my intrusion was no only detected... but that this creature called Rhyme knew the SPECIFICS of my abilities just from using them nearby. I immediately knew I had to keep an eye on them. That they were likely to be the biggest threat. If anything went down, they would be the head of the snake that needed to be cut. Still, all seemed well enough as they simply challenged us to a competition for personal bets and the boxes. I enjoy competitions, so for a moment I was excited.
The first round was myself vs their flamingo companion, wrangling and riding some beast. A piece of cake, this was literally along the lines what I did for a living. Made me the obvious choice for the round. Unfortunately the round wouldn't happen. As I stared intensely at the creature, hungry for the hunt to come, the flamingo completely lost control and it ran off into the wilderness. Truth be told I was angry when they immediately called it a draw. My chance at participating in this competition was robbed! Stolen! I wanted to demand my proper turn. A chance to track down the beast by whatever means I chose and that if I brought it back, I'd claim the win. Only fair, right? However I held my tongue. All we needed was to win two of the following games and all would be fine, right? I could offer such a suggestion as a tie breaker.
The second was a wrestling match. A fact that immediately made me regret volunteering first as I looked at the rest of my crew. They were all good at their roles, but physical combat didn't seem any of their specialty. Tsoki volunteered however. Watching I was frozen in shock. How would he manage to do it? In a real fight, Tsoki would probably do quite well when push came to shove. This however? It seemed unlikely. Yet Tsoki impressed me greatly as he managed to push a much larger opponent out of the ring, claiming his victory. I'm buying that squirrel some drinks and going to brag for him if he doesn't do so for himself.
The third round was Quet. Obviously a victory here would mean they'd be unable to secure the three wins they needed, so I was hoping for the best. It ended up being something called a "quick draw". The first round they shot each other, but both stood firm. The second however, resulted in Quet's gun being shot out of their hand. An unfortunate loss, but all things considered, I could not fault Quet. Everyone faces a superior opponent from time to time.
The final round was a poker match. Krieg vs Rhyme. A match that went on for far too long that I got bored and went to the bar for drinks. A mistake on my part given that they apparently must have talked about something as when Krieg eventually claimed victory we ended up held up at gunpoint. Quet was the first to react, holding their leader hostage briefly before gun shots started being fired. This immediately set me to action. I didn't think someone as young as Quet could deal a killing blow, so I went straight for Rhyme's throat. Take them out before they could get free. However that's when the chaos began. That beast that I scared off burst through the wall. Through the chaos I spotted Krieg's companion Squishy making off with a box and unleashed shadow tendrils to knock down Rhyme's three companions while we made our escape. Unfortunately one box was destroyed while the third just was gone. I offered to seek it out as we made our escape but I suppose with everything going on it was simply time to leave.
That's when Quet pointed out something they had noticed.... there was a reason none of those shots hit us. They weren't even aiming for us. That screamed that some under the table deal was made to me, and like Quet I could only pinpoint one person who could have done it. I don't know what happened exactly or what the plan was but either way with a small group? I don't appreciate being left out of the loop. Me and him are going to have to have some words. To work together, we need to be able to trust one another. I don't know what he's up to, and frankly as long as it doesn't harm the crew? I don't really mind. However had I been more in the loop... well... I don't think I could have prepared for the creature than came crashing in. Don't think any of us could have. At very least though I would have made sure to have SOMETHING prepared however. Prepared some kind of trap for example. Going to have to make that clear to him somehow.
Midnight's Private Journal: After The Ascension
Can't believe I missed out on a vampire hunt... I never actually got to hunt down a vampire before.
Will say though, the world we ended up was quite strange. When the nightmares first came, I imagined he'd be dealing with an attack on our town. Instead, we ended up going through the rift above the city and ended up in a world where our perspectives and appearance changed greatly. How to explain it... like normally a person perceives things in terms of length, width and depth? Well take out the depth, at least in the normal sense, and that was almost what we were dealing with? It was... strange. Not as strange as our defense of the town though from the airship.
While a team went hunting the vampire, we fought a bunch of ghosts and bats in the sky. And a red spider on a moon. How we even reached that spider with our attacks is absolutely beyond me. Seemed like it'd be a reasonable challenge, but well... I loaded the cannons with grapeshot, making taking care of the swarms easy. Next I actually decided it was time to test out a kite I made in my off time. It was the first I made myself, figured that it was about time to take advantage of that experience, especially as the spider began dropping eggs on the village. So I flew. I flew straight for one of the eggs and sliced it up nice and good while the others took care of the other, the swarm, and struck at the spider. We were decimating the attacking force. Still the spider stood. I was considering trying a powerful spell I hadn't really utilized before to help finish it off, but a harpoon was shot from the ship followed by a powerful electrical strike, finishing it off.
Definitely some impressive work, I must say. I keep finding myself more and more impressed with the skills and abilities of those I work with.
This world absolutely is awful though. Killing such an incredible beast and it didn't even leave anything behind as a trophy? I love the unique challenge presented in such a place, but it could have been so much better. Least we got some payment out of it. Not sure what to use my money on yet, probably going to keep on saving for that project I talked to Lio about.
Expanded Questions About Midnight - The HTML Wanderpus
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101. Are you from Liminal? If not, where are you from and what makes your world unique?
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No, I am from a place called Meterra. The most unique thing I can think of about my world when compared to Liminal would be the abundance of magic. Magic permeates pretty much everything. There is no individual that doesn't have a magical potential, it's just a matter of unlocking them and it's used. There are also locations strong in particular types of magic to the point where they affect the landscape and sometimes the beings within it.
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102. What are some places in your world that you have been to? What specifically makes them unique?
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The Banshee Mountains, where I'm from is strong in both life and ice magic. Unfortunately there is also a taint in the life magic, so while living creatures and plants flourish in the icy landscape, the dead have a tendency to rise as undead if they die there.
Another unique place is the Chaos Woods. This is where I ended up in Liminal and one of the few locations that is a confluence of MANY elements of magic, resulting in a rather chaotic landscape that creates mutations in the unprotected. Even with such protections, hallucinations that become more and more powerful are typical when you travel too deeply.
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103. Is there somewhere specific that you favor in particular? Tell us about it.
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The Shadowlands were a particularly interesting place to me. The name makes it pretty obvious what one aspect of it is, it is abundant in shadow magic. So much so that it is dark there even in the day. It is full of forests, marshes and ruins. So much to explore. We didn't really stay long though, just had to cross through it to get to the Chaos Woods.
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104. Is there somewhere specific that you hate? Why?
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The frozen lakes of the Banshee Mountains... it's where my best friend died , and well... the thing that killed him? It's not the only one. It's a dangerous and terrifying place for me. It's plentiful in resources though so I've had to go there often.
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105. How about a place you haven’t been to yet but you have always wanted to visit?
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I always wanted to visit Yggdrasil. Apparently it is an island continent that has an incredibly massive tree. A squirrel-like people called the Ratotaskyns live in a massive city built into this tree, drawing upon its magic to create powerful alchemical ingredients, orchard products and so one. It's also where a good friend of mine is from.
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106. Are you a typical individual for your world? Is there some significant way you consider yourself to differ from your societal norms?
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Typical? Hah, what is typical really? There are so many races, people with different magical talents, personality traits and so on that I'm not sure there is such thing from a world perspective. In terms of my home though? No. My home town is mostly dwarves. They're descended largely from some dwarven survivors from an ancient battle, and while other races will settle in, often dwarven blood gets mixed in and there is a tendency for families with backgrounds from other races to become more and more like dwarves until they essentially are. You'll occasionally get some unique traits from those races pop in though. Cat eyes, unique hair and skin colors, tails and so on may be uncommon but they are far from rare. As for me? Well, I'm from a wolf race. No one else like me in the village.
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107. What makes you stay with the crew rather than stay in one place? Is there something that would make you leave?
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I stay with the crew because they were the ones who gave me a place when I found myself in Liminal. They also provide me a job that allows me to utilize my skills from home as well as learn new things. How could I say no to all that? I think the only thing that'd make me leave is if they turned out to be slavers or genocidal maniacs or something else as severe.
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108. What do you find interesting or what theories do you have in regards to all the rifts that open in Liminal?
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The link to water in particularly interesting to me. Why water? Is it the water itself? Its reflective nature perhaps? What's to keep an individual themselves from becoming a rift, being mostly water? Why do they have less of an effect on silver? Is silver perhaps a constant across all worlds as being a conduit of magic? I have no theories, only countless questions.
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109. Do you believe that closing the rifts is the best long term solution or do you think there are other possibilities to explore?
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If rifts are constantly opening then no, closing them won't work long term without a clearer understanding. As for what other possibilities there are to explore? To start with, figuring out the precise conditions that form a rift naturally would be a good start?
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110. Do you have any particular thoughts about the Redcaps?
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World destroying monstrous creatures. Worthy hunts that I hope to claim proper trophies from, but ones that I fear the implications of.
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111. What is your relationship with your home? Do you want to return? Is there something keeping you from doing so? Or is there a reason you are satisfied to simply stay with the crew?
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Home is.. home. I hope to return one day, but truth is, curiosity and new challenges would likely keep me from returning for a good while even if I found a way back. Truth be told, I've also made good friends, developed new responsibilities and so on. I could not in good conscience leave the crew so easily.
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112. What is your role among the crew and why did you choose this role?
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I'm the Tracking Specialist for the Navigation department. I chose this role because it is the closest thing I can do to what I did back home that isn't simply a pure combat role. Wouldn't have minded pure combat, but they had other expectations.
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113. In what ways do you fulfill your role in the crew? Is your role one that might have a lot of downtime? If so, what duties do you perform to fill in that downtime?
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Several of my abilities are great for finding objects. I also am very good at studying creatures and things to find weaknesses and habits that allow me to track them. Recognizing patterns and the environment are also particular talents I have. There is a lot of downtime however due to the specialized role, so I assist in any tasks sent my way. From physical labor to fetching equipment.
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114. On a mission, what is your ideal loadout to bring along? What things would you like to carry with you, even if you might not necessarily currently have access to them? Why these particular items?
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That really depends on the job. Always have to keep my sword at hand. Can never go wrong with a good grapple and rope, both in wilderness and infiltration. Potions, ointments, and oils based on the situation. Good bit of alcohol always has its uses too in a wide variety of situations. Could use more magic items though... I miss having the Dragonstones from my home to amplify magical abilities in a pinch.
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115. Sometimes the crew can get a bad reputation. How much does this matter to you and why?
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Nah, people will talk regardless of the reality. What matters are those who are close to you. Who actually knows what happens. The people you lead or look up to you. The random populace is meaningless.
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116. Were you a part of the crew before the Admiral was killed? If so, what were your thoughts on finding out the truth about their motives for the crew and did it leave any lasting effect on you?
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I was pretty much in training at the time. The betrayal and lies were a bit infuriating, but the problem seems to have taken care of itself mostly.
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117. A police force organization by the name of Starlight has a particular dislike for the crew and does not seem to like the crew interacting with the rifts. Have you had any interactions with them and what are your thoughts of them so far?
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They are pretty reckless I feel. Joust seemed to have some honor and is worthy of respect even if my first impressions were bad. However they are foolish to engage in chasing us rather than focusing on diplomacy. Groups like us will exist, and will make mistakes. You want to fix that? You teach, not try to imprison.
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118. Who on the crew have you formed a close relationship with? Tell us about this relationship.
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I'd say Tsoki and Officer Lio are the ones I've grown closest to so far. Lio reminds me a lot of my youth, except with Nilly's intelligence. He may be an officer, but I can't help but feel it's my duty to make sure he doesn't repeat the mistakes of my youth. That he has the potential to be greater than I ever could be, but that he is in a very vulnerable position to become a shattered person. He is selfless and worthy of much better than that.
Tsoki? Tsoki reminds me of home. Abilities of a sort like the seer of my home village. The squirrel-like physique. The inquisitive mind like Nilly's? And we pretty much forced him to come along with us? I can't help but feel both nostalgia and responsibility. He's taken it all well too, because interesting to be around. Even joined me when I went fishing. Do you have any idea how hard it is sometimes to get a good fishing buddy?
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119. As a player, what is your goal for your character? What would you like to see them pursue or what do you hope to get out of your character?
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For to most part I'm happy just playing the character out. I would however like opportunities to pursue the darker nature that lays under Midnight's surface a bit more. His tendency towards anger when those he cares about are threatened and how he can go too far when pushed. It would also interest me to explore what his darker heritage as the son of a shadow demon from his world, a creature born as a manifestation of fear that eventually gained sentience, would have in the context of Liminal. I'd also like opportunities to pursue his lighter elements. For example, he was raised as an orphan, and as such has a soft spot for the homeless, the lost, orphans, and just in general the underappreciated, and opportunities to reach out a helping hand and build from that would be interesting for me. Even more so if those he helped somehow witness his darker sides, and have to cope with how their helper can be just as terrifying as he appears.
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120. Do you have any special traits that might not be apparent just from an initial glance? Is there a particular reason you know of for having these traits?
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IC: Mostly I have a talent for shadow magic. It is the talent I awoke in my youth and honed my entire life, manifesting shadow into various forms for different tasks from combat to scouting.
OOC: Midnight isn't fully aware of this, but in his home world, fear was literally a form of sustenance to him due to his heritage. In the sense that it can feed him just like eating a meal would, or empower his magical abilities. Thus he was at his strongest the more tangible fear was around him. A terrified village for example made him absolutely overpower a monster that'd normally have taken his entire group to face down. It also unfortunately give a drug-like high in that he will find absolute euphoria when using his power to create this fear and make him more prone to emotional outbursts. How this carried over into Liminal, if at all, is a complete mystery to me as a player as it would normally operate on how people's emotions can have an impact on ambient magic in his home. So if there is any such manifestation of this effect in Liminal or elsewhere, that'd be completely up to the DM.
Midnight's Personal Journal: After Call My Name
What the hell did we put the engine? What happened to me?
First I hit Vatna, angry that he came back without my cloak from a while back. Which yeah, I was upset, but that was a while ago. And I wouldn't just punch someone. Apparently everyone was affected. We know what caused it, but that wasn't the weird thing. See, the object that was causing it was a lot like that crystal from my previous report that got tossed into our new engine. The weird part was when I used my ability to split off my shadow to find the copy of this crystal after we heard about it.
For a brief moment it was like... it was going to kill me. For a moment I felt that anger and rage like I had when I fought the mutated wyvern. A desire to tear something apart piece by piece. That something being myself. Why though? That shadow is supposed to be MY consciousness. Not a separate being. So why would it feel so separate? And yet... so familiar. Could it be that it wasn't just the crystal in that case? Could it have been me? There's always been something that has burned deep with my anger. Something that has always made me feel more comfortable when there are those capable of reigning me in are around. Maybe I'm overthinking it. Maybe just the idea we put something like that in our new engine is unsettling me.
Maybe it's not just that though. And why do the possibilities make me feel excited?
I don't know what to think... other than I hope I didn't hit Vatna too hard... also sent a canister down to hopefully contain the heart. Maybe the science team can figure it out.
Midnight's Private Journal: After The Pot & Kettle
Found that weird bell crab in my belongings again... decided to leave it for Tlalli since Lio found it useful when I had just stuffed him into his pockets as a joke.
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Did some fishing with Tsoki to make a little bit of money... being stuck in the city is so boring but at least I have something to keep me busy. Fishing in Liminal is unique to put it lightly. Kept my mind busy as we waited for word of the crew if nothing else. Times like this are ones I almost consider not following my routine of writing at least something in my journal each day. Least I had some good company.
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Officer Sleekfoot made it back safely with everyone. Sounds like it went well. Apparently Officer Tattoo is a massive jackass when he's drugged up. The hell did Lio do wrong? Or Quet for that matter? If anyone was at fault it was myself for not being quicker on the destruction of that bud when Lio ordered it. I swear, all Lio has to do is ask and I'll haze his ass. Maybe steal his pain meds... or there was talk about bears? Not sure what that was about... but maybe I should get a taxidermized bear and sneak it into his room when he's sleeping. Or just slap one of his casts really hard when he's in between pain drug doses. Direct approach and all that.
Midnight's Private Journal: After Legends Rise
This mission today was an unsettling one if I'm perfectly honest. So much about where we were reminded me of home. A squirrel-like race of people with a hero worship culture and impressive technological skills? If it were not for the great chasm and the fact that they appeared to primarily be of the fully furred variety, I'd almost have thought we were in the country of Yggdrasil as Nilly had once described it to me. Then add in the seer-like abilities that were very much like that of the village seer who used her visions to assign most of our hunts? There were a ton of little reminders that made me especially wary of anything resembling a large acorn given those tended to be explosive when Nilly was around.
Then add in the fact that it appeared hundreds of years passed here to the point with the crew's story passed down despite those being far more recent? There are implications there I can not even begin to fathom. Truth be told while I'm happy to stay in Liminal for a while to learn, I can in fact imagine a day that I return home. The option is one that I'd like on the table for me to pick at my leisure one day but now there is the risk that home may no longer even be home? I'm not sure how to process this. Perhaps I should just be putting it aside until the day it is even relevant. After all, even if I decided I needed to go back, I don't know how to in the first place.
I think this is why I felt so... would it be sympathetic or empathetic? One of those for Tsoki. Not only did their home bring up so many memories, but we may have pushed this same fate onto them. I hope they can be made a part of the crew. This seems to be a prospect they'd absolutely love. Can't even imagine the disappointment they'd feel if they could not and were just essentially dropped in the city. Whatever happens, I'll make it a point to have their back. I share responsibility in this for not having a better plan on our escape.
Maybe after I get a good break to recover we'll share some drinks and I can find out what their story was. I've definitely exhausted a lot of energy these last few missions and can't keep ignoring it. If I pushed myself much further without a break, Linlin would beat the ever living crap out of me if she were here.
After Mission Report: The Floating Island
Our away mission to the floating island deep in the river of clouds was a fruitful one that I hope will make our unexpected long term absence more forgivable.
To start off with we were guided by one Tsoki Chatterfang towards a floating island that was apparently causing the residents problems. Likely from the sparks of energy that were shooting off of it. It's floating nature however and the resulting energy made the prospect of approach difficult. By air would risk destruction of any device we used to approach whether it be by the kites of the residents or by the airship. Attaching a rope also carried many risks in terms of crossing. Officer Royce managed to teleport the group to the island however. A dangerous prospect as the teleport was not completely immune to the related energies of the island it seemed but we managed to get there safely.
Once on the island both the eyes of Tsoki Chatterfang and the skin of Officer Royce glowed quite intensely. Just following the glow made finding our goal rather easy really. The entrance of the cave flanked by two statutes and two silver-colored button wearing squirrelfolk armed with guns. Myself and Officer Royce dispatched them quickly and the rest of us made our way into the cave which held three more of these squirrel beings near an altar and what seemed to be something similar to the sub's old engine. After an attack against Officer Royce's life, I threatened the lives of these beings, resulting in two of them fleeing while the third stayed to talk. He seemed to have fallen in love with one of the old officers from Lockstitch Academy? The second in command of the former admiral I believe it was? This is something you may have to speak to the others with for more detail as my familiarity with her was very limited. More to the point however, as Officer Royce convinced them to leave, it threw something into the engine that threatened an explosion resulting in a quick need for us to fix it.
At some point during this a small rift opened up and out popped out this.. disturbing goo creature. It smelled AWFUL to the point myself and Zacna had to exit the room. I suppose I'm not the only one vulnerable to strong smells. At this point we did manage to spot the squirrels leaving the island on their kites so the odds of us having to deal with them from this incident are lower, though I do have a concern I will bring up later in my report. As for the creature that appeared? By the time we returned, it was gone.
Something that Officer Royce did prior to this caused silver to literally grow out of the rock which we able to use as a fuel source as we worked to fix it but ultimately we had to shut things down. I don't know how we prevented an explosion. In truth I just grabbed a grappling hook from my bag and used the rope to tie things down as it threatened to rattle itself apart. I'm not an engineer so I wasn't exactly in a position to do proper repairs, just something to buy us some time.
In the end? We did shut it down. Barely. Unfortunately a thought occurred to me soon after. The engine seemed to be what was causing the rock to float and we had just turned it off. After some discussion on how to leave, this fear was confirmed and we made our escape the only way we could think of at that moment. Turning the engine back on, and singing a song to return us to the Liminal Plane. Right over the Word Tree. I would like to state clearly that what Officer Royce did likely saved our lives, so I hope you will not look upon the results of his decision overly harshly. The Word Tree suffered some damage but with Tsoki's help, we were able to repair the damage. This did seem to give the tree some additions that we may need to be aware of however.
In the end I would like to apologize for any concern our absence may have caused. I believe Officer Royce expressed a desire for us to acquire the engine and the silver from the island we brought back with us. Who knows what else we may find there as well, it should keep the science team busy as well.
Furthermore, I would like to express my personal recommendation that Tsoki Chatterfang be allowed to join the crew should they desire. Our actions forced them from their home and our ability to return them may be extremely limited given the nature of this rift. Not only in the difficulty of access, but there seems to be a high likelihood of the potential for a time differential between that world and Liminal. While it is in my opinion that it was in sync while we were there, the timeframe of their culture just doesn't add up otherwise. This means that there is a high probability of Tsoki never being able to truly return home as even if they did, it'd be well past the time they left at. I have informed Tsoki Chatterfang during our return to Silver Thimble with a suggestion they speak with the science department if possible for any confirmation they might be able to manage. It seemed to have been taken well given our reputation as heroes in their culture.
In addition, I am enclosing a request for shore leave for myself with this report. I have exerted quite a bit of energy in the last few missions and my injury from our test flight on the airship has not yet recovered fully. It has only been agitated further by both the sub's destruction and the impact endured on our return. As such it is my strong belief that without some time taken for a proper rest, I will be of little use to the crew. I intend to take only the time I absolutely need and return as quickly as possible after my recovery.
The Storm
The explosion of the submarine has seemed to have lead to a massive storm. Signs of it appeared immediately following the explosion but I didn't imagine it spreading like it has. It's definitely a nasty one. There will be a lot of repairs to do once it's over and done with. Couldn't even return to the area the ship originally went under at so all I could do was return to town and help prepare it for its coming. Not entirely new to this kind of thing. The Banshee Mountains was a conflux of ice magic after all. And that meant the potential for massive snowstorms, especially during the winter time. We had to make sure our shelters were secure from such things so some of those skills certainly could help here.
The real problem comes from when the storm hits though. Never know everything that can go on. Going to go ahead and volunteer my services to go out and assist with any emergencies during the storm. Probably keep out by the communications station for the town and go out whenever a call comes in or run checks if communications get cut. At least that's the plan. We'll see what the tell me when I offer. Either way going to see if I can get some good books to alleviate the boredom for the sitting and waiting part.
100 Questions About Midnight, Part 4 - Self Images and Etc.
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84. Describe the routine of a normal day for you. How do you feel when this routine is disrupted?
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My typical work isn't exactly routine. If I'm on a tracking mission, I'm doing that and the way that happens is varied. I suppose when I'm not doing that my typical day at this point is I wake up, get some exercise and training in to warm up for the day, take a shower or bath if I have time, have breakfast, do whatever work I have that needs to be done whether it be a mission or odd job, have dinner, take some time to do something fun, then get a bit of reading or writing in to settle in to get some sleep in. This getting disrupted is not usually a big deal. Unless I'm taking a bath... then I can get a little cross. Getting the right ginger soaps for a good bath isn't exactly easy and I hate wasting them.
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85. What is your greatest strength as a person?
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My sense of loyalty. It's the thing that helps me quell any doubts I might have about a situation most easily. Also has kept me from ever facing danger on my own.
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86. What is your greatest weakness?
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My fear of being alone. Honestly when I was pulled from my world, I likely would have gone mad were it not for my finding a new place for myself here.
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87. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
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Hmm... I suppose I wouldn't mind having the kind of brains Nilly or the more research oriented crewmembers have. I'm certainly not dumb, but I don't make the same kind of connections they do with data. Understanding what one is working with is one thing. Being able to use that information to invent and build though? That's beyond me.
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88. Are you generally introverted or extroverted?
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Extroverted, definitely. I enjoy conversing and putting myself in the thick of things.
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89. Are you generally organized or messy?
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Organized. Got to be when you travel around a lot. If you can't organize your belongings, you can't travel with as much and won't have things handy when you need them.
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90. Name three things you consider yourself to be very good at, and three things you consider yourself to be very bad at.
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I'd consider myself good at fighting, hunting, and analyzing situations.
Bad at crafts, fine finger coordination and managing my temper on my own.
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91. Do you like yourself?
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Mostly. There's always room for improvement of course.
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92. What are your reasons for being an adventurer (or doing the strange and heroic things that RPG characters do)? Are your real reasons for doing this different than the ones you tell people in public? (If so, detail both sets of reasons…)
---
The adrenaline rush. As odd as it sounds, when I get scared or in a high stress situation? I've found it to be stimulating. Like a fish swimming in water. It's more intoxicating than liquor. I'm mostly up front about this though I don't go into full detail.
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93. What goal do you most want to accomplish in your lifetime?
---
I'd like to be the head of a large family. Not just that of blood, but of choice. I suppose I could start an orphanage when I retire. Teach others the way I was taught, arrange for them to work with others and so on.
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94. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
---
Probably doing the same thing I'm doing now. Will it be in Luminal, back home or somewhere else? Hard to say.
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95. If you could choose, how would you want to die?
---
Quietly, surrounded with reminders of great accomplishments and loved ones. That or saving a friend. Obviously the former is preferred though. Better to live a long, but glorious life in manner in which you'll never be forgotten.
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96. If you knew you were going to die in 24 hours, name three things you would do in the time you had left.
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Gather all the friends and family I have together
Throw a massive bash that will never be forgotten
End the night with a beautiful woman and hope my end comes quietly and painlessly.
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97. What is the one thing for which you would most like to be remembered after your death?
---
That I lived my life to the fullest every moment I could.
---
98. What three words best describe your personality?
---
Loyal, adventurous, and independent
---
99. What three words would others probably use to describe you?
---
Hot-blooded, enthusiastic, and wild.
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100. If you could, what advice would you, the player, give to your character? (You might even want to speak as if he or she were sitting right here in front of you, and use proper tone so he or she might heed your advice…)
---
Not every moment has to be a high one, Midnight. Sometimes it's better to take a quiet moment to reflect on everything and come to accept the events of the past rather than charging forward. Maybe take some time during your baths just to think. You'll face some of these challenges again and some day it will break you if you don't confront it.
100 Questions About Midnight, Part 3 - Relationships with Others, Likes and Dislikes
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53. In general, how do you treat others (politely, rudely, by keeping them at a distance, etc.)? Does your treatment of them change depending on how well you know them, and if so, how?
---
In general I try to be welcoming. Treat all new people like a friend and be a kind. As I get to know them, if I like them I'll start treating them like they are family. If they do something that ticks me off though? Well, let's just say I can get very hot-blooded really quickly. It's definitely possible to get back in my good graces and I'll give them a fair shake before I treat them like an enemy, but I won't be nearly as pleasant.
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54. Who is the most important person in your life, and why?
---
Currently? Hmm... that's a good question. Given my current situation none of my old friends and family are really in my life. Who knows if they ever will be again. Rather depressing to think about actually. Suppose I'll have to get to know the crew better and get back to you. If I were to pick someone from my old friends and family though? I'd actually say Nilly despite not seeing her often. She's always been the one to grant me a different perspective. The concoctions her and her family have made have actually saved our lives more than a few times too. Her hyperactive personality also gives her an aura of joy. A week with her can let out an entire year worth of stress just from the laughter.
---
55. Who is the person you respect the most, and why?
---
I feel like I've hinted at this a few times already, but definitely my adoptive father. Raising me all on his own? Hunting monsters to the point where even cost him his leg? And even after that learning to become a master smith to still be able to help the village. All without ever complaining. There's no one back home that doesn't respect him. Heck, many parents would expect you to follow their footsteps and though I chose the same path he did in his youth, it was my choice, not his. All he did was push me to be the best I could be at it.
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56. Who are your friends? Do you have a best friend? Describe these people.
---
My main friends would be Kalolin, Hargak and Nilly.
Kalolin, or Linlin as I call her, is a supportive type, always treating everyone's wounds, keeping everyone accountable to themselves and pretty much acts like a big sister.
Hargak is a former bully of mine but we bonded over lost friends and we work together well. He's always putting himself in danger and is a good drinking buddy though he's a bit of a crier when he gets drunk.
Nilly is an excitable little squirrel girl with enough energy to outpace a thousand wolves and one of the best brains for alchemy. She's always playing pranks, telling stories, running all over the place and is in general a fun time to be around.
My best friend Notroc died a long time ago. That guy loved everything about fighting but also had a strong sense of justice. He loved the excuse to fight but he always wanted some reason he could justify to himself. He always watched my back, toughened me up, and always helped me out when I needed it. One of my goals in this new place I find myself in is to find a drink similar to the one he always drank so I can drink in his honor again as I once did every time I drank back home.
---
57. Do you have a spouse or significant other? If so, describe this person.
---
I do not at this time.
---
58. Have you ever been in love? If so, describe what happened.
---
I have not. yet. I've had childhood crushes, but nothing I'd describe as love.
---
59. What do you look for in a potential lover?
---
I have a bit of a thing for tan skin and snow white hair if I'm honest. Probably a big part of why I had some underlying attraction for Kalolin even if I don't feel like she'd be a lover. Personality-wise? Definitely love women with a more wild and carefree side but a gentle heart. Someone capable of grounding me when I might go too far but isn't a stick in the mud.
---
60. How close are you to your family?
---
I respect my adoptive father above all others though admittingly, it is hard to feel close with someone who barely speaks sometimes. I don't know what he's thinking most of the time? Like over time I gained a better understanding but he's definitely not the sort I can go to with every problem.
---
61. Have you started your own family? If so, describe them. If not, do you want to? Why or why not?
---
No. I would love to though. Whether it be by blood or by adoption. To return the kindness and knowledge I have been given and pass it on to the next generation.
---
62. Who would you turn to if you were in desperate need of help?
---
My comrade at arms. Anyone who is willing to risk death at your side is someone you can trust to help you out of a bind. I hope the crew I'm with now continue to prove that belief.
---
63. Do you trust anyone to protect you? Who, and why?
---
That... is a strange question. I don't feel like I need protecting. Protecting oneself is one's own responsibility for the most part, even if I usually only apply that to myself. I suppose this is a repeat of the previous question. If someone is fighting at my side I need to be able to trust them to watch my back. Linlin did this with her protection and healing magics for example. Hargak did this by taking to the front lines.. and my father DID save my life once. Hmm... suppose not so strange a question when I think about it.
---
64. If you died or went missing, who would miss you?
---
I expect much of the village would mourn me. Nilly though... Nilly would cry. Gods, how long have I been gone? Does she know yet that I've gone missing? While I'm not sure I'd return home yet given the opportunity, I'd at least want to send a letter back for her sake.
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65. Who is the person you despise the most, and why?
---
One shouldn't speak ill of the dead... let's just say he bullied me my whole life. I wasn't the one that killed him but not sad he's gone. Just regret that it was in a situation where I had some responsibility for his life.
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66. Do you tend to argue with people, or avoid conflict?
---
Depends on the situation. I won't avoid conflict just for the sake of it but I won't argue if I don't think it is overly important. Better to make the best decision possible as a group even if I don't always see all the benefits. However there are some things one must stand up for full force.
---
67. Do you tend to take on leadership roles in social situations?
---
I try to, yes. That isn't to say I can't follow, but if I have an idea, I'll gladly lead the way on it.
---
68. Do you like interacting with large groups of people? Why or why not?
---
Hmm... I don't mind it, but there is the problem of it being hard to get to know everyone? If it's people I know? No problem. If it's not? Can be a bit overwhelming.
---
69. Do you care what others think of you?
---
Only if I care about them.
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70. What is/are your favorite hobbies and pastimes?
---
I do truthfully love hunting as entertainment but I do make a point not to waste anything. Fishing is nice too. Good when you need a snack but want to relax. Or you can treat it as hunting and spear fish.
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71. What is your most treasured possession?
---
Well it WAS my bram fur cloak from my 14th birthday... until I lost it trying to warm up a blood blob who was frozen solid. Hell if I know what happened to it after that but I suspect I'm not ever getting it back.
---
72. What is your favorite color?
---
Tie between white, silver and black really in different situations and combinations.
---
73. What is your favorite food?
---
Honey-aged venison glazed in a berry sauce. Gives that dark meat just the right amount of sweetness. Mmmm, mm mmmmm. I'm drooling just thinking about it.
---
74. What, if anything, do you like to read?
---
Adventure stories, geography books, bestiaries and... let's just say art books.
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75. What is your idea of good entertainment (consider music, movies, art, etc.)?
---
String and woodwind focused instrumentals are nice, a good epic told in song. Those are my favorites but I'm not overly picky.
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76. Do you smoke, drink, or use drugs? If so, why? Do you want to quit?
---
I definitely drink. A lot. I drink to remember, drink to soothe the wounds. Drink to warm the heart. Drink to loosen my inhibitions. I drink for many reasons and in many different situations and I have no intention or desire to stop.
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77. How do you spend a typical Saturday night?
---
At the bar, drinking, socializing, and from there it varies.
---
78. What makes you laugh?
---
Slapstick humor, raunchy humor, jokes that play with expectations, people doing goofy and stupid garbage... least that's what comes to mind right now. List is probably longer.
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79. What, if anything, shocks or offends you?
---
The willingness of people to sacrifice the lives of other for their own gain. At least it did at one point. It's the one time I can remember reaching a point of near uncontrollable rage.
---
80. What would you do if you had insomnia and had to find something to do to amuse yourself?
---
Exercise mostly. I've had nights where I've just ran until I forced myself to pass out. Just work off the energy until I have none left so I don't burn myself out staying awake.
---
81. How do you deal with stress?
---
Drinking, partying, exercise, fighting, sex, and comedy shows. Bet that last one caught you a bit off guard. I love a good comedian. A good joke. Heck, just a bit of tomfoolery. I don't feel overly capable of being such myself, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy it.
---
82. Are you spontaneous, or do you always need to have a plan?
---
Always try to have a plan but a bit of spontaneity is healthy. Both in fighting for when something doesn't go according to plan and to keep a bit of spice in life.
---
83. What are your pet peeves?
---
Disloyalty is at the top of the list. Someone who puts their own convenience about the needs of others is absolutely infuriating. Also not a fan of pompous, self-important attitudes.
100 Questions About Midnight, Part 2 - Past Influences, Beliefs and Opinions
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29. What do you consider the most important event of your life so far?
---
Definitely the Ice Banshee hunt that served as my trial. It solidified my path as a hunter of monsters, I lost my best friend, made a new one and truly learned of mortality. It was the event that set me down the path to mature greatly. Obviously I made mistakes along the way still but every mistake has always made me look back at that moment. Hard not to when it also left its mark in the literal sense too.
---
30. Who has had the most influence on you?
---
It's a toss up between my father and Notroc. My father helped set me on my path and helped me improve every step of the way. Notroc though has shown me how to enjoy life. The strength of loyalty and having companions that can watch your back. His death also taught me how fragile those bonds can be and that without strength and skill they can be cut ever so easily.
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31. What do you consider your greatest achievement?
---
All other problems of the event aside, I'd say tearing apart a mutated wyvern pretty much on my own almost definitely qualifies. First silver earring I earned that the others of my team didn't share in.
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32. What is your greatest regret?
---
Not being strong enough to prevent Notroc's death. Not being fast enough. Not being observant enough or fast enough. He wasn't the only death either. Katid Goldmane could have been saved too had I been better. He may have spent all of our childhood harassing me but I'd much rather been able to prove him wrong in a manner that not even he could deny.
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33. What is the most evil thing you have ever done?
---
Definitely the time that I contemplated murdering an entire village in rage at them using their brethren who were cripplingly mutated as wyvern bait to buy time for themselves. Followed by the slow torture of that wyvern as I started ripping it apart piece by piece. Linlin and Hargak were uneasy around me for a while after that. Hard for me to regret that though. What that mutated wyvern did to those people was horrific to put it lightly.
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34. Do you have a criminal record of any kind?
---
Honestly the concept of a "criminal record" is pretty new to me. I assume there is something like that in the cities where I'm from but I only went to them for work. Never really came up. So short answer? No.
---
35. When was the time you were the most frightened?
---
The Ice Banshee hunt. I watched two people die right in front of me before she turned her sights on me. She even nearly grasped my heart, something that'd have been a death sentence for me as well, freezing my very soul. It was only a high risk manipulation of magic that saved my life. It was worse than a near death experience. It put my very existence at risk. Terror and adrenaline fueled all my actions that day. Fear of losing anyone else. Fear of erasure. Fear of disappointing my father and leaving him behind. Fear of not getting revenge for Notroc. It was a rough experience.
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36. What is the most embarrassing thing ever to happen to you?
---
A latrine was blown up around me.... long story involving a Ratotaskyn who specialized in bomb making. So skilled and precise that she could design magical explosives that could actively avoid catching people in the explosion. Still resulted in me being covered in shit. That was several days of baths.
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37. If you could change one thing from your past, what would it be, and why?
---
I would have prevented Notroc's death. He was my best friend. Why wouldn't I want to change an event like that? If I were forced to change something else though... my mother's death. Look, I care about all the people I met as a result and I'm happy with the way my life has gone but not knowing your parents? Where you truly come from? It can feel like there is something missing. Like you don't have all the pieces that have led you to be who you are.
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38. What is your best memory?
---
That's a tough one really. Meeting NIlly for the first time was a highlight. My friendship with Notroc maybe. My 14th birthday when I knew I had my dad's approval and pride when he made my cloak maybe? The thing about "best memories" is that it can change depending on the day and situation. Whatever memory at the moment that you can look back on and smile is the best memory at that moment.
---
39. What is your worst memory?
---
Watching Notroc die in front of me. Then after the battle was over, just seeing his mangled and frozen face. I still have nightmares about it.
---
40. Are you basically optimistic or pessimistic?
---
Optimistic about my ability to constantly grow. My ability to grasp my own future going forward. Pessimistic about the general state of things though. There are always those who will try to screw things up for everyone. All it takes is one to ruin the lives of hundreds or even thousands. Those aren't the greatest of odds when it can take many to lift those that they hurt out of the mud.
---
41. What is your greatest fear?
---
Loss... losing my friends, my family, watching everything decay around me until I'm all alone in the deepest abyss. The worst part is the inevitability. That every person I meet I will one day have to do without. It is something I've never been good at dealing with.
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42. What are your religious views?
---
God-like beings almost certainly exist in my world. Sometimes they make their existence quite undeniable as shown in our history in the catastrophes their battles have caused. Do I worship any of them? No. None of shown an interest in me or my village as far as I can tell. Instead we focus on the spiritual. The soul. The most vital part of every being's existence that must be protected at all costs so that its experiences can be passed on to future generations. For the soul always returns to the flow of the world to pass its memories onto the will of the world to then one day return. Usually with a clean slate, but there are certainly stories of those who managed to protect aspects of themselves to pass on to their reincarnations. The founders of our village are apparently among those, occasionally reincarnating as great leaders, but such a reincarnation hasn't occurred in my lifetime? It's usually kept secret until adulthood, so for all I know one could have been among those who have died for one reason or another. Certainly isn't unheard of.
---
43. What are your political views?
---
The strong have a responsibility to the weak. A leader has responsibility to every single person under them and a responsibility to do their best to provide for every need so they themselves have the opportunity and example to grow into strong leaders themselves. Those who instead hoard power and talk down to those they are meant to protect, blaming them for all their faults instead of taking responsibility are the worst scum of the earth. Hardship of some varieties may breed strength. but not every hardship can be beaten alone. At very least providing the example, the means, and the assistance necessary to pull one out of hardship is a must.
---
44. What are your views on sex?
---
Won't lie, I'm fairly open on the subject. As long as everyone is in agreement, go nuts, no matter which way you lean. Personally I'm only really attracted to women, but I don't hold it against anyone who thinks differently. For the most part I usually make it clear I don't limit myself to one individual, though I certainly would if there was someone I cared for enough that had a problem with my habits. That person just hasn't appeared, nor have I had a partner that has requested it of me yet.
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45. Are you able to kill? Under what circumstances do you find killing to be acceptable or unacceptable?
---
I can, have, and likely will again. Comes in part with the job. Monsters are an easy example much of the time as they usually see sentient beings as food sources. Obviously that creates a self-defense scenario which I find an acceptable reason. Murderers and destroyers of souls are definitely types that deserve nothing short of death. Basically if they provide any sort of threat to myself or my friends and family, I won't hesitate either. One should never be the instigator however. No matter how someone angers you, if they're not actually doing you harm, don't do them harm. Situations should also be considered some. The line is a tough one if I'm honest as I did once want to kill everyone in that village, but considering the circumstances, I honestly couldn't think of a better solution for them.
---
46. In your opinion, what is the most evil thing any human being could do?
---
Destroying a soul. You aren't just killing them at that point. You are erasing them entirely. Worse is that from current understanding? The soul feels every agonizing moment as if hundreds of years pass every second, being subjected to every terrible negative experience imaginable. Not sure if that is unique to those where I am from or if it's just from the known methods but every aspect of it is horrifying to imagine.
---
47. Do you believe in the existence of soul mates and/or true love?
---
Absolutely. I have yet to experience it beyond a few momentary sparks, but the feelings those sparks invoked make me feel if I found someone who could be my anchor and that I could share the joys and hardships of the world with, that spark could easily become an eternal fire.
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48. What do you believe makes a successful life?
---
The right mentors, the will to press on through any hardship and companions that can fill in for your personal weaknesses.
---
49. How honest are you about your thoughts and feelings (i.e. do you hide your true self from others, and in what way)?
---
Truthfully? I try to be honest most of the time. However sometimes I do what I can to hide the pain I feel by turning that agony into celebration of the thing that I'm feeling the most pain about.
---
50. Do you have any biases or prejudices?
---
Sometimes I can have a bad habit of underestimating short statured beings. I've come to regret it in the past for sure but it's something I try to keep aware of.
---
51. Is there anything you absolutely refuse to do under any circumstances? Why do you refuse to do it?
---
There's a pretty long list.. I would hope many of the horrible things that immediately come to mind would be on such a list for many. Willfully betraying a friend or family would top the list however. They are the ones who helped me become who I am today. To sacrifice them for self gain would be to deny and taint myself.
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52. Who or what, if anything, would you die for (or otherwise go to extremes for)?
---
My comrades, whoever they might be. They are my reason for being. The thing that tie me down and keep me from a life of indulging in only my worst impulses.
100 Questions About Midnight, Part 1 - The Basics & Growing Up
1. What is your full name?
---
Midnight Erebus. No known middle name though typically the culture of my origin doesn't use them.
---
2. Where and when were you born?
---
I was born in a wagon on the road in the Banshee Mountains on the 21st Day of the 12th Month, 3526 After Meteor (AM). The Winter Solstice.
---
3. Who are/were your parents? (Know their names, occupations, personalities, etc.)
---
My adoptive father's name is Yomrim Brewsword. He is a silent yet fiery blacksmith for the Banshee Mountains Village and formerly one of their top hunters before he lost his leg.
My mother is Mona Erebus. She was an old friend of Yomrim's before she died and a nomadic trader with no homeland. She apparently had a kind and gentle personality that could easily turn aggressive when protecting others. She died protecting me from monsters, likely Draugr. They never did track them down.
My biological father is an unknown but it is likely him that I inherited my shadow magic from as my mother's talents was in illusions.
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4. Do you have any siblings? What are/were they like?
---
No known siblings. Probably none unless I have some unknown half sibling.
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5. Where do you live now, and with whom? Describe the place and the person/people.
---
I live where ever my journeys with the Lockstitch crew takes me. The people are far too varied to explain in a short time, but they have given me a place to be within Liminal.
---
6. What is your occupation?
---
Officially I have the tracking specialist for the Navigation Department though this ultimately strictly means my job can be varied based on the situation and on if anything needs to be found at the time. Otherwise I'm kept busy with odd jobs and support.
---
7. Write a full physical description of yourself. You might want to consider factors such as: height, weight, race, hair and eye color, style of dress, and any tattoos, scars, or distinguishing marks.
---
We'll mostly skip this one as there is plenty of information about this on my profile and well, you can just look at me. Suffice to say I'm a tall wolfman with pale blue eyes and black fur that ends it silver tips. I also have quite the fluffy mane of hair on top of my head and a sizeable tail. Typically I try to dress in loose fitting clothing to let my fur breathe and warm furs are my favorite for cold weather outfits. I also wear three silver earrings, two in the bottom of my right ear, one in my left. As for scars? I have a nasty frostbite scar shaped like a hand right over my heart.
---
8. To which social class do you belong?
---
Currently I'm a crewman. Back home? I was considered an exceptional hunter, one of the most important occupations in my village. Of an intermediate rank, usually the silver earrings we've earned is the sign of our rank.
---
9. Do you have any allergies, diseases, or other physical weaknesses?
---
Not particularly, though overly strong smells give me a massive headache and make my nose itch.
---
10. Are you right- or left-handed?
---
Right-handed
---
11. What does your voice sound like?
---
Deep and gruff.
---
12. What words and/or phrases do you use very frequently?
---
Someone else would have to tell me as I haven't noticed anything in particular.
---
13. What do you have in your pockets?
---
Jerky usually. I don't carry valuables around with me unless I intend to use them.
---
14. Do you have any quirks, strange mannerisms, annoying habits, or other defining characteristics?
---
I can get a bit too into a hunt, particularly if there is a personal stake. Whenever I drink, I have at least one drink in remembrance of lost comrades or of a hunt, always something specific that invokes that memory the most strongly.
---
15. How would you describe your childhood in general?
---
Full of training, learning skills all around the village and danger from the local monsters. It was all very exciting and rarely was there a boring day. Even the harshest snows didn't really put a stop to activity. The only downside I'd say was the bullying due to some of the elitist clans.
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16. What is your earliest memory?
---
My adoptive father working at the forge. There was just something about the flying sparks and the clanging of iron and steel that always reminds me of home.
---
17. How much schooling have you had?
---
Depends on what you'd classify as school. Back home it was largely practical stuff. The mechanics of innate magical talents, basic first aid, survival skills, various crafts, and interacting with traders from various lands. You learn a lot but it's all pretty scattered. The first dedicated set of lessons was when I arrived in Luminal and signed up for the Lockstitch Academy. I had to do quite a bit of studying. Wasn't my preferred mode of learning and I'm still not sure I understand it all but as I've put it into practice, it's all worked out. I just make a point to make sure I'm listening when someone more experienced speaks.
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18. Did you enjoy school?
---
Learning in general is enjoyable though some subjects are a bit more frustrating then enjoyable.
---
19. Where did you learn most of your skills and other abilities?
---
Definitely from my home village. As I kind of alluded to with the previous questions, our village made a point of having the children work directly with specialists, assisting them and learning some of the basics from them. From there they figure out where our talents are and while we'll still learn from all of them and from travelers all the way through adulthood in case our talents developed differently over time, our focuses would shift to the areas we were found to be best suited. For me that was hunting so I learned most of my skills from the older hunters and my father.
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20. While growing up, did you have any role models? If so, describe them.
---
My adoptive father was definitely the main one. The way he commands respect with so few words, his willingness to help train me after my normal daily work was done and how he allowed me to pursue my own path freely. Other than him, the village Seer was definitely up there. Truth be told, I never learned her name, we all just called her Mistress Ashforge. She held her position due to her talent as a wizard, particularly in learning Clairvoyance and Precognition type magic on her own which she often combined with her natural talent of water magic to scour the lands for threats and assign hunting tasks. She's fairly young for her position and is the mother of a good friend of mine, Linlin. Probably one of the wisest people I know too. Any time I needed advice that my father couldn't provide, I'd go to her and she'd help me find my own insight. Probably closest thing I had to a living mother.
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21. While growing up, how did you get along with the other members of your family?
---
My father and I got along pretty well. Not exactly a loving father but he was inspiring. Sometimes I'd get irritated at how stern he could be and he wasn't always perfect, sometimes punishing me for things I didn't even do, but there were other times I deserved it and despite there being moments of distrust, I feel like he was a great father.
---
22. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
---
Hunting always appealed to me from a young age though as a child it was more about the respect it afforded, with little realization of the thrill it presented until the bram hunt on my 14th birthday.
---
23. As a child, what were your favorite activities?
---
Wooden sword fights with the other kids, digging through the snow and creating forts, snowball fights, and trapping are probably the main things I enjoyed prior to my path on becoming a proper hunter.
---
24. As a child, what kinds of personality traits did you display?
---
I definitely developed my strong sense of loyalty from a very early age. Other than that I was probably a bit more cocky and arrogant. Also was far more willing to start fights back then. I won't shy away from them now but then? Any excuse to fight and brawl was a good one.
---
25. As a child, were you popular? Who were your friends, and what were they like?
---
Popular? No. I was the outsider, even if I was raised my entire life in the village. I did have three particularly good friends though. Kalolin Ashforge was always supportive and nice to everyone. She was also the one that patched up everyone's wounds after we kids went too far. Nilly Nutcracker and her family visited the village towards the start of the spring months every year. She was about my age and was definitely leagues more creative and clever. Super energetic too. Then there was my best friend, Notroc Giantheart. He would always come to my defense. The guy found brawling to be his calling in life and me and him would spar quite often. When someone would bully me? He was on them in a heartbeat. Toughest guy you could ever meet. I still miss him.
---
26. When and with whom was your first kiss?
---
First kiss was with a girl named Astrid after me and Notroc won a brawl during the Great Hunt festivities back when I was 14 years old. Mostly was a light peck to show she was impressed with me. We never really talked all that much honestly and honestly I didn't really know how to pursue things then.
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27. Are you a virgin? If not, when and with whom did you lose your virginity?
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Oof... this question really is probably one that would get me killed if it ever got back to her I said much about it. Between you and me though? First time was with Kalolin after our trial with the Ice Banshee. When we got back, our entire group was in mourning and got drunk off our asses. Black out drunk. When I awoke the next morning, I found myself sharing a bed curled up with Kalolin. Guess we found an outlet to let off some steam. There was a long talk about it. Apparently she remembered far more about it than I did, I just got more drunk after we decided to head off alone. We eventually decided that the drink and the recent rough days did funny things to our heads and that we'd just maintain our friendship as it were. It was a little awkward for the following month as we were both a little embarrassed as such thoughts between us weren't exactly at the front of our minds prior to that point. We were more like family then anything, you know? Thankfully things returned to normal and we even joke about it from time to time, especially since that wasn't the last time similar events would happen for me. Just usually myself and my partner would be a little more clear minded after that.
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28. If you are a supernatural being (i.e. mage, werewolf, vampire), tell the story of how you became what you are or first learned of your own abilities. If you are just a normal human, describe any influences in your past that led you to do the things you do today.
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Well I'm not exactly either, you know? Wolven are commonly nomads of my world. We're certainly not werewolves. See, werewolves are a class of demonic plague that are far more bestial. They bring out and feed on the primal rage of the being that the demonic spirit is infesting. Given their wolf-like appearance, they can give my kind a bad name sometimes so I'm not particularly fond of them. I could tell you about how I learned about my shadow magic though. See, every being of my world has an innate magical talent. It's always focused on a particular magical element but takes a wide variety of forms. For me it was the hunt on my 14th birthday. I thought I was going to be killed by the bram we were hunting and in fear, I reflexively unleashed a tendril of darkness that stabbed the beast like a spear. From there after a visit with the seer she examined me and determined my talent resided in giving form to darkness. Turning it into tendrils I can use as lashing, stabbing and binding weapons is what I always found easiest, but my potential goes well beyond that. Some of this is a bit more restricted in Luminal but the concept is mostly the same.
Midnight's Old Journal, 05/11/3541
11th Day of the 5th Month, 3541 AM
Been a while since I made a new entry. Honestly in part it was because of a recent incident that resulted me not being allowed in the house for a few days. My own fault really... mostly. Nilly really didn't need to go as far as she did but she proved her point.
See, the Nutcracker family showed up a few days ago as usual and I wanted to brag a little bit about the bram and my new cloak. Nothing that is a big problem on it's own really. Nilly loves it when I give my stories a little flair and I love hearing her's. Apparently she made some new friends over at Regal Claw Valley. A shy kid in particular that she had been trying to make friends with for years. Poor guy apparently almost killed some other kids when he got angry about his sister getting hurt defending him a few years back. His mana awoke pretty fiercely and he actively avoided others his age ever since. It's hard to imagine what that would have been like.
I'm getting off track though, this doesn't have anything to do with the incident. See when I told the story about the bram, Nilly got really excited. She asked if she could join me and my father on a hunt before they left. Honestly I made a bit of a fool of myself and laughed at her. Mocked her small stature and that she wouldn't survive five minutes. Needless to say she was not too happy with me and stormed off. I felt a little bad about it even then, but I did also believe she was too small and frail. As young as I am, Ratatoskyn adults such as Nilly's parents are even shorter than me. Nilly herself is only about half my size. They look like easy pray for most monsters and beasts. Truthfully though their caravan manages very well so I should have realized that they had their ways. Nilly ended up searing that fact into my mind.
Not long after I had to go to the latrine and Nilly ran in ahead of me. It was a little strange but I was patient and waited. Why would I be concerned? Nothing like this has happened before. When it was my turn to go in however it wasn't long after I sat down that the entire latrine blew up around me, spreading crap everywhere. The smell was the most horrifying thing I ever experience and all I can do is let out a scream as I panicked, looking around before I was faced with a laughing squirrel girl. She had set all of this up in the time she was inside. Obviously she got a bit in trouble for it and has been spending the last couple days cleaning up and helping to rebuild the latrine. As for me? Baths. Lots of them. I don't think the bathkeeper girls will ever look at me the same but they've definitely provided me with some of the best cleansers available. Took a while to get the stench out of everything though.
Do have to say, I'm impressed with Nilly's precision and ingenuity. Maybe I SHOULD talk with my dad about taking her along. Do also need to find some way to get her back too though.. nothing major, rebuilding the latrine was mostly punishment enough.
To Liminal's Moon
Quite an interesting mission to say the least... to traverse the Rift between Liminal and it's visible moon and discover what awaited us there. A perfect test flight for our new airship. To be honest, flight is definitely not a favorite of mine. Too much bad experience with dragons and wyverns I suppose. Do you have any idea how hard it is to get down safely when you find yourself clutching onto their back's in a foolish attempt to keep them grounded? I certainly learned my lesson after the first couple fights and several broken bones. Our first flight initially wasn't much better. We found ourselves come into conflict with a rather INFURIATING bug man named Commander Joust whose reckless chase forced us to defend ourselves from them AND redcaps and an even more reckless crewmember unleashed the fury of the wind, causing us all to crash onto the moon along with a couple strange critters who have taken up shop in town now. I think I still have a few cracked ribs that I'll probably have the doctor check out if they still bother me later.
Still at least we made it to our destination and all of our ships were salvageable. Joust lost his crew which honestly I feel more sorry for the crew then him. The level of arrogance he displayed would have earned him several fists to the face at almost any tavern where I'm from. Still, as long as I didn't have to deal with him personally, it'd be easy to keep my temper from flaring. More to the point, we were on the moon! Quite a sight, both wonderous and terrifying really. A dead world all around us.. but covered in the most beautiful silver dust I've ever seen. It reminded me of home in a strange way. Likely because of the silver jewelry the smiths made for those who completed particularly perilous hunts. In some cases they'd even be given powerful enchantments to protect our greatest warriors. I never did quite earn one of the enchanted pieces for myself.. but what I do still have, reminds me of home.
I'm getting off topic again.... long and short of it is this moon was a dead world. It appeared to have been inhabited by the otter people at one point. What happened was initially a mystery but wasn't exactly a place that left me with much work, being more one who deals with hunting and tracking the living and sometimes lost property. So all I could really do was grunt work on the ship, doing lifting of repair materials for the engineers. Did have a decent short conversation with that skittish rabbit Lio and another individual by the name of Noodel I think it was? Not sure what she is... never seen anything quite as yellow as her. Had an interesting story about an exploding mutating fish and is a bit on the cute side though. All three of us will have to get together and exchange stories in the near future over some drinks. Maybe bring some of the other crew if they're up for it too.
We did end up finding out what destroyed the world in any case... our scout team encountered a massive line of redcaps. Guess I jinxed things a bit when I brought up how those things freak me out. Even as a monster hunter, I've never dealt with anything that the entire purpose of which seemed to be destroying worlds. It was a good opportunity to test out how well my training paid off though. As soon as we learned of its approach I moved to the top deck to gather all my strength while other members of the crew either did the same or manned the cannons. With our combined efforts we managed to destroy the creature. This crew's full might is a sight to behold that makes me proud to be a part of it. My only regrets are that we didn't manage to claim a trophy and that the obnoxious fool, Commander Joust, managed to survive... or it was until I heard murmurings that he risked his life to help the others escape. Maybe the bug man has some redeeming qualities after all. Losing an arm to aid those he once fought against... perhaps if we meet again, it'll be over drinks and have the opportunity to reevaluate our first impressions.
Midnight's Old Journal, 01/01/3541
1st Day of the 1st Month, 3541 AM
The start of the new year and the day of the Great Hunt! At the start of every year, teams of hunter candidates are sent out to seek out a target decided on by the seer of the village. The rest of the village feasts, tells stories of hunts, brawls in the fighting pit, sings songs of old battles and heroes and competes in games of physical prowess. It is my favorite time of year and as I sit here writing this in the middle of the drunken aftermath, I can say this year was no exception, even if I have to tend to my unconscious father.
The day began naturally with the Choosing. The leader of each team places their hand in a ceremonial fire and a rune representing their target would be seared into their hand. The seer would then read this rune, tell a story of the creature they must face, stories of past hunters who have faced a similar challenge. They are then reminded they have a single week to accomplish their task and are sent off. It is always a very enlightening experience, learning of the creatures that roam the areas around the mountain though there is always a little bit of tension as there has never been a year where everyone has survived. I suppose that is what the celebration is for. To relieve the tension. Still I can't help but look forward to the time my turn comes. Notroc and I are an unstoppable team! Whatever we're put up against, we will be able to take them down.
Which reminds me, we actually got to go in the dueling pit today. Katid and Hargak challenged us you see? Apparently this year they realized that they could get in a fight with us without getting in trouble if they challenged us to the pit. I think they came to regret it though. Notroc let out his loudest battlecry and tackled Katid down almost immediately and just began beating his face it. Hargak meanwhile got tripped up by my shadow magic. See, I learned how to create a single strand of shadow the width of a rope and control it in the last week or so. I still have a long way to go, but in a brawl? This was enough as I quickly pinned him down and twisted his arm. The fight was soon called in our favor. I don't think they'll be fighting us directly again any time soon after that public embarrassment. We were actually even given our first taste of mead! Not much due to our age, but it was sweet and warming.
After that we began challenging each other to some of the various competitions. Notroc beat me at arm wrestling, axe throwing and wrestling. I won at the swimming, log battle and the foot race however. After that we flirted with some of the girls our age (we both got slapped by Kalolin, probably the one downside to the day), and at the end of the day we helped with the final preparations for the food and drink during the night's feast. Not usually a particularly enjoyable job, but it wasn't often that Notroc's father shared many of his brewing techniques and quite honestly? Mead brewing actually kind of reminds me of Nilly. We only get to see the Nutcrackers for a couple weeks a year at the start of spring as they come into the region to sell their potions and herbs. I've made good friends with the youngest daughter and while I have trouble keeping up with her and all her talk of alchemy and chemistry, learning about brewing makes me feel a step closer to having some understanding of what it is she and her family does. I'm looking forward to seeing them again this year as it has been far too long.
Anyways, I suppose I should stop stalling and get around to carrying my father off to bed. Hopefully the rest of the week goes as well as today has. Also need to think about how I'm going to break that tie between myself and Notroc.
Midnight's Old Journal, 12/23/3540
23rd Day of the 12th Month, 3540 AM
An excerpt from Midnight's journal, left behind in Meterra
My father got me this journal and insisted I write in it. "A great hunter should keep a record of his life so all can learn from it," he told me. To be honest I don't see the point as I haven't heard of anyone having their story told through a journal. Songs and poems are what make a famous warrior, right? Still, I know better than to argue with him, especially when he put so much work into making this journal and my new cloak. He's fiercer than the hot forge he works in daily so I'll give it a shot. Where to begin though... I suppose I could talk about my birthday two days ago.
See there is a tradition among hunter candidates that on their 14th birthday they go out on a hunt with their father or their mentor to make their first kill. The initial plan was to go with my mentor, especially given my father's injuries but he was quite insistent. It was important to him to witness it with his own eyes. He'd teach me tricks that my mentor didn't but I never imagined he'd force himself to do this with his missing leg. I was nervous to be honest. I had never seen him actually hunt so I had no idea if he'd actually be able to help if I failed, and believe me, I was terrified that I would. See we had it in mind to hunt a bram. And while brams aren't really aggressive usually, they are dangerous if provoked. Dangerous enough that I knew if I screwed up, I'd likely die.
Honestly, truth be told I DID screw up. See, I managed to hide myself perfectly to ambush a bram that we managed to track down but I left my spear at camp like an idiot. All I had was my sword. Probably wouldn't have been a problem if I had stabbed it, but instead I slashed and broke my sword on its horns. I'd probably have died had my father not stepped in. On the bright side, my magical affinity showed itself for the first time and I managed to deal the initial fatal blow with it. The seer tells me I have a Shadow Affinity. Specifically I can give form to darkness and solidify it. Her daughter, Kalolin, seemed even more excited about it than I was. In her words it was, "like I could manifest the power of the night itself and command it." Have to say, I certainly don't mind it. I've always found the most comfort in the dark. Sometimes when I'm feeling stressed, I'd close the shutters in my room, keep all the candles unlit and just sit and think. It's comforting.
Still, I don't know how to control it yet. Apparently at first magic usually manifests in times of intense emotion. From there one usually has to learn on their own, remembering what they felt at that moment and learn to concentrate on that feeling. Apparently the emotional aspect of it will disappear over time as one learns to control it on their own? Sort of like how you have to force yourself to learn to walk until it just comes naturally. It's hard to think about though as when I first used it, all I felt was fear and panic? How does someone just conjure up those feelings from nothing? Do I have to put myself in danger to get better? I don't know. The seer wants me to come back to her next week so I guess she might have some suggestions.
Anyways, after that we rested for the night then spent all of yesterday carving up the bram. Dad then sent me to distribute everything out all over the village to those who could make best use of it all. Except for the pelt. It was a bit strange to me. He wasn't the village tailor. If he was going to keep something I would have thought it'd be a horn to make a new hammer or something. I found out when I got back. He had made matching cloaks for us both and this journal, bound in hide from the bram. Honestly it was the nicest gift he had ever given me. I hope I don't let him down.
Midnight Erebus's Bestiary, Page 6
Erdan, Lord of the Hive
The Draconic Necromancer
The battle that brought me to Liminal. We had received a lead that Erdan was making his lair in a cave near the Chaos Woods. We knew there was a massive reward from several countries for his death or capture and he was infamous for creating undead plagues where ever he went. He was also notoriously hard to catch. See, unlike his children we found, this was an ancient dragon and ancient dragons are a different beast entirely. See dragons are known for their powerful magics, but unlike the average individual, they don't simply have a single magical talent they specialize in. They are our version of Wizards. Spellcasters that can naturally learn the magical talents of others and turn their spells into their own power, as well as create spells of their own. This talent is rare among most races, but dragons? EVERY dragon eventually acquires this skill as they age and it only grows more powerful as their heart of mana grows and condenses throughout the centuries. Worse, he rarely acted in his true form, instead carving out the minds of other beings and using them as puppets he can channel his power through, even going so far as being able to transform them into simulacrums of himself. Even worse than that, he himself can shapeshift. All this makes it next to impossible to pick out his true body.
All of this meant that most of the younger hunters were not meant to engage the dragon. We were to set up weapons at the entrance of the cave. We were an insurance policy to insure that he didn't escape. Poisoned ballista bolts, magical bolas, my shadow magic to help restrain him, nets... we were ready to unleash enough hell on him to stop an entire army in their tracks. And yet when he came charging out of the cave he simply plowed through it. Nets and bolas tore. Ballista bolts and magic attacks bounced off, and my shadow magic? Well one of the shadow tendrils I had did manage to find a hole in his defenses from the sheer number of attacks and hooked into one of it's wings. Unfortunately I was too slow detaching it from myself and was pulled into the air. I think a couple others were as well. All we could do was hang on and hope for the best as Erdan flew directly towards the center of the Chaos Woods. I myself was forced to unconsciousness as he unleashed a magical scream. When I woke up I was already being helped aboard a ship in the Liminal Plane.
Midnight Erebus's Bestiary, Page 5
I have earned three silver earrings in my life so far. The first was from the Ice Banshee hunt. The first earring is a sign of a full-fledged hunter, so every hunter that survives to be a member of an unsupervised party has the one. All that come after are from particularly challenging hunts of creatures that have typically led to deaths. The second for me was the undead green dragon as dragon hunts have led to entire parties being wiped out in the past. They can be very much hit or miss so any dragon hunt, as rare as they are due to them being sentient beings, will result in a silver earring, with enchanted ones rewarded for particularly old ones. The third however was one that should have been the second most dangerous hunt of my life.
The Chaos Wyvern
Scourge from the Chaos Woods
Wyverns in general can be described as draconic creatures, with arms for wings and a scorpion tail. Older ones will breathe a poison mist, making them near impossible to deal with by any breathing creature without magical assistance. Assistance we acquired via a plant from the Regal Claw Valley called Aerospice. It is a type of wind element influenced mint that when condensed into a potion removes one's need to breathe for a day. The village keeps a supply of this mint for jobs such as this and we soon learned that the situation called for it FAR more than we realized.
You see this wyvern came from a place called the Chaos Woods. It is a font of magics of so many conflicting varieties that it results in, as the name it suggests, pure chaos. Wild mutations, random shifts in time and space, random explosions, all is possible in the Chaos Wood. And this creature had lived in it, coming out of it to hunt common folk from villages right outside of it that gathered that pure chaos into crystals to create pure mana stones. When we arrived, the sights were horrifying. You see, in most cases you'll find villages of dead from poison miasma. That was not what we found. The villagers were mostly alive, all in twisted shapes and mutations. Some became odd mixtures of many different races. Imagine for example you have what should be a human. Yet instead they had one arm like that of a troll, another a tentacle, a third clawed hand coming out of their stomach. Their faces twisted with a scaled lizardman snout, one eye that of a fish, the other appearing normal. I could go on and on but this sort of randomness and worse was common among them all. Some couldn't even physically function from the mutations, begging only to die. This we found is what the wyvern's poison could do now. It itself had its own mutations, becoming furry like a bear and a head of an iguana. It's wings and scorpion tail were very much still intact.
Apparently this wyvern attacked this village daily, eating those weakest first. It was the sad reason their fellow villagers allowed their friends, their family to suffer. They learned the wyvern would ignore the dead, so their best chance for survival was to let their helpless companions suffer until they were eaten. I remember the rage I felt that day. Anger boiling up in my blood from the sheer heartlessness and betrayal of it. I wanted to destroy this entire cruel village. I may have decided to do so had Kalolin not talked me down. Made me realize that they were helpless to do anything else. That no one else would help them in their current condition and that as cruel as it was, there was little else they could do to buy time for their survival. Had she not, I likely would have struck Hargak for his suggestion that we use one of them as bait. Instead, I found myself agreeing.
Words would do little to explain what happened that day when the wyvern came. You see, in most tough hunts, I would not have survived without my comrades. In this case they could only watch in terror and awe as I approached the wyvern. From their descriptions, I appeared like a demon with an aura that seemed to drain all the light of the area around me as I approached the wyvern devouring it's kill from behind. It seemed to sense my approach as it slowly turned but as it did, I had already unleashed a flurry of tendrils from my body that grabbed it's tail and ripped it from it's body. An act that caused even the wyvern to stumble in terror and unleash it's pure miasma from its mouth all around the area. I remember being reminded of the bram I killed. It was almost like I was on the opposite side. Instead of feeling empathy for the poor creature however I smiled. I was going to end this cruel creature in the most painful way possible and there was nothing it was going to be able to do to stop it.
Apparently sensing this, it began to fly away, but not fast enough as I grappled myself onto it's back and ripped its wings off, crashing into the trees, sending me flying off as we struck the ground. Several of my bones were broken, but I used my shadow magic like braces to keep moving. It didn't even hurt at the time, thinking back on it. The creature wasn't in much better shape. Even without my assistance it would die within minutes from the massive tree trunk it was impaled on. That wasn't good enough. I was going to systematically rip it apart. I had started with it's eyes, ripping them out before Kalolin struck me with her usual punch to the face. It was that moment I snapped out of my bloodlust. Pain seemed to return to my body as I just laid down. I can't say I feel bad about what I did that day. To this day I still feel that beast deserved every bit of pain for what twisted things it had done. At the same time however, I am glad Kalolin was there to ground me.
Truth be told I'm not sure how I tapped into as much shadow magic as I did that day. I remember tasting fear on the air in ways that I never quite experience. That as I drove that creature to fear I felt a rush of power, increasing my strength even further. We had talked with the village seer afterwards but even she couldn't entirely read what had happened to me. All she could do was give me exercises to further explore my source of my magic affinity and learn to better control it without giving myself over to my baser instincts. She also banned me from receiving magical healing for my wounds to ensure I'd devote myself to these exercises and to teach me a lesson for my savagery. My father wasn't quite as worried. Apparently he had received similar punishment several times in his lifetime, though in his case it was because he accidently singed his comrades more than a few times. Guess he saw himself in me in some regard. Took a while for Kalolin to relax around me, but she came around after a few conversations that convinced her that I still had full control of myself.
Midnight Erebus's Bestiary, Page 4
Memories of home have been flooding my mind as I write this journal. For the most part I have spoken of my most difficult or challenging of hunts. However I am reminded of a hunt that while less challenging than most, came at a time when I was still learning and holds a special importance to me. My black fur cloak was made from this creature. A cloak that has provided warmth in the coldest of nights and served as a reminder of how far I have come throughout the years.
Bram
The Horned Beast of the Forest
Brams are not typically the most aggressive of monsters despite their fierce appearance. In fact they share the characteristics of the ancient creatures they were created from. The story goes that animal life became sparse on our world after a great disaster. A group of beings known as Golems claim to be the reason that animal life and even sentient life returned to the planet. These Golems are apparently some of the most technologically advanced beings on Meterra and had records of all life that once existed here. This archive is of great interest to many wizards and from time to time, they succeed in stealing from this archive. In this particular case, one wizard experimented with creating animal fusions, using the information they acquired from the Golems. One such result was the Bram. A beast with the body of a bear and the head of a ram. Mostly. The head tends to be a bit wider and its teeth are certainly not of a herbivore.
The combination of traits makes for a powerful creature that is an expert climber, and a very dangerous charger that can knock over trees with a single charge. Their horns also protect their necks and head, making it very difficult to get a clean strike in. One is more liable to break their blade trying, as I in fact did. They are generally fairly docile like your average bear however, leaving any creature it doesn't see as food alone unless they take aggressive action first. They are however very valuable game animals. Their horns are light, yet durable enough that they can be used for a variety of purposes, from ceremonial drinking horns that can last centuries or as part of fierce hammer. Their hide and fur is thick, making them the most ideal blankets and cloaks for the cold of the Banshee Mountains. Their meat is very lean, making for the perfect jerky. What fat they build up makes for a great tallow for a wide variety of purposes. Finally their bones have slightly magical properties and are often used in a wide variety of crafts to help channel mana.
My first successful hunt against one of these creatures started off roughly. This was before I learned how to control my own magical abilities so I was stuck fighting it with just weapons. My father Yomrim had told me the best way to kill it was to strike hard and fast from above, stabbing it in the back of the neck with a sharpened blade. I got the part about striking from above right, hiding myself in a tree and leaping down as it passed. However where I should have stabbed, I slashed, shattering my blade against the tough horns. The end result was sheer panic on my part as the Bram turned and roared at me, slashing it's claws at me. I fell to the ground and managed to avoid the claws but quickly backed against the tree. The bram stood on both legs as it approached me until a firebolt struck it in the eye, causing it to turn and roar at my father. Instinctually I thrusted a hand forward, causing a single tendril of shadow to lash out from my arm and impale it in the neck. Soon after my strike it fell, breathing quickly as it rapidly bled to death. My father ended it's suffering quickly as he stabbed a spear into it's heart.
I distinctly remember the look on my father's face. A strange mixture of pride and disappointment that eventually settled on a smile as he helped me up. We had one of our rare talks on the way home, him admonishing me for using my sword instead of spear in the first place and the way I panicked but how he was proud that I managed to take advantage of his distraction and that I had managed to discover my magical talent. When we got home we went through the process of cleaning our kill, a process that took all of a day to complete. The day after that I had been send out with the wagon to distribute the parts to the various crafters of the village. All but the furs. The reason for which I found when I returned home to him presenting me with the finest black fur cloak I had ever seen. It was far too large on me but he knew I'd grow into it. This along with my scimitar and my silver earrings are the only pieces of home I have left.
Midnight Erebus's Bestiary, Page 1
This record are my notes about creatures I have fought in the past and the environment they reside in. While I doubt the creatures of this world of Luminal share much resemblance to that which I am familiar, I find it important to review my past encounters from time to time and reflect on the friends I've lost and the lessons learned in my battles.
Ice Banshee
"The Soul Reaver"
This ghostly creature is a native to the Banshee Mountains, a far north mountainous region flooded with festering life and ice magics. The result is that all who die here rise as not only the undead, but frozen and especially dangerous versions of them if their bodies are not burned within a week. The Ice Banshee is an undead that has risen from a drowned woman, trapped at the bottom of a frozen lake. There are only three ways to destroy them. Fire, magic, or destroying the heart of their corpse. The last one is near impossible without a seer as finding the body in a frozen lake is near impossible, and even then so much as touching their body causes the banshee to teleport to defend it.
As for the ghost itself, it's touch freezes the flow of mana within the body, which in turn cause the body to freeze. If it touches your heart, your entire body will freeze instantly, all the way to the core. Only two ways to protect from this, block their touch with magic, or trigger a controlled mana burn. For reference, mana burn is the burning of one's mana, the very thing the banshee tries to freeze. This is generally a terrible idea as triggering mana burn is not only a death sentence in most cases, but will consume the very soul. It is considered the ultimate sacrifice in my world. Typically this is triggered by absorbing the power of a mana stone directly. Typically these stones are processed through magical items, but concentrating on them can cause one to absorb it directly. If you use a small enough shard, this process is more like a short spark that will protect you from the banshee's touch briefly rather the raging inferno that normally triggers. The measurement has to be precise however and I am not familiar enough with mana stone to make that judgment.
The ice banshee was my trial hunt. The hunt undertaken with other young hunters to be considered true hunters of the village. We were young and we were cocky. The leader of the group was my childhood bully, Katid Goldmane. The Goldmanes where a family who didn't appreciate outsiders like myself. Dwarves were the only ones welcomed as far as they were concerned, and their son was no exception to that. Still, they were forced to take me with them. He was the first one to die, the banshee flying straight through his entire body as it rose up from the lake.
My best friend, Notroc Giantheart was with us as well. He was a fiercely loyal, firey haired hulk of a dwarf that would always run to me screaming his battle cry whenever Katid and his gang would start a fight with me. His fists would fly with the ferocity of a giant and we grew to be quite the team. He unfortunately fell next, his face swiped at by the banshee's claws, leaving frozen gashes that went halfway through his skull. I still drink to this man whenever I can find his favorite mead. A cyser with just the slightest hint of mint. I've been seeking something similar ever since I arrived on Luminal.
I was the next target. The banshee reached for my chest, pressing into my ribcage. I took a gamble and gathered shadows within my own body to block it, which lasted long enough for Katid's right-hand man, Hargak Underbrew, to slice off the banshee's arm with his enchanted axe as he screamed in rage at losing two friends (I would later learn that he and Notroc had something of a relationship when neither I or Katid were around). Banshees can regenerate as long as they have mana so his strike wasn't enough to disable in, but he was able to fend it off while our healer, silver-haired young dwarf woman by the name of Kalolin Ashforge was able to help me get back to my feet.
Us three then battled the banshee together. Hargak kept the banshee's attention with his fury. Kalolin would provide protection spells and unleash holy bolts of magic when the opportunities arose. I would use my shadows to restrain the banshee and strike at any openings provided. Eventually I managed to pin it down entirely, giving Kalolin the opportunity to enchant Katid's axe with all her remaining power and unleash the final blow, causing a scream to erupt from the lake as the banshee's body rose out of it and burned in azure flames, leaving behind a crystalized heart of pure ice magic. This was what we brought home as our trophy, along with the bodies of our fallen comrades, burned in a funeral pyre to ensure they would not rise again as our foes. I still have the scar from that day on my chest, aching whenever the temperature changes drastically. No fur grows there anymore, it is just a hand shaped burn.
Midnight Erebus's Bestiary, Page 2
Draugurs
The Frozen Undead
Draugurs are some of the most common hunts we had in the Banshee Mountains. These are what most commonly rise from those who die there. Shriveled mummified husks with eyes that burn with blue fire, they seethe with rage at their deaths. The older they become, the more intelligent, even tapping into some of the power they held in life, twisted and corrupted into the form of ice magic. Given that any creature can become a draugur, they vary in level of danger that they represent. When caught early, it's like fighting your typical zombie with the exception of their hardened and icy flesh. More commonly they survive long enough to relearn to use the weapons and armor that they once wielded and fight like warriors. There are a few who become Draugur lords however, leading entire squadrons of Draugur and fighting with everything that they come into contact with.
Virtually all of my hunts against these beings were relatively routine. The seer of our village would detect an approaching surge of undeath and a group would be sent to dispatch them. There was no pay, the only purpose was to keep our village safe and to prevent an old story from repeating itself. This story told of a Draugur king who rose and could corrupt anyone he touched with frozen undeath. He unleashed blizzards all over the mountains, spreading his power outwardly to nearby regions. It's only goal was the destruction of everything. It is said an army of various races gathered together to face this threat. At the end of the battle, only a small band of dwarves survived. To keep this event from happening again, they created the village that I lived in and swore to train endlessly to end all similar threats. It became a common belief that these dwarves would reincarnate themselves and become the greatest hunters of each following generation.
Midnight Erebus's Bestiary, Page 3
The Green Dragons
The Children of Erdan
Dragons are typically intelligent creatures. They are born as fledglings with small wings, transforming into humanoid forms with their reach the age of 10. These forms then grow like most humanoids until the age of 50 at which they begin shifting into brutish creatures until they fully morph into the four-legged creatures that most stories are familiar with. They often get mistaken for the Draconians as their humanoid forms are identical until this shifting and some dragons are even born from pure Draconian blood, but they are creatures all of their own. Much of the world hunts dragons because within each of their hearts is a stone of pure crystalized mana that only grows with age. This is what gives particularly large mana stones their other name, Dragonstone.
For our part we would rarely hunt dragons, but we had received a request from the more human-centric lands of Mercia about attacks by a pack of six that utilized acid breath and necromatic magic. Typically this would be outside the scope of our activities. We are monster hunters, not mercenaries getting involved in the wars or conflicts of other countries. The descriptions of these dragons sent chills down our spines however. These dragons were described as constantly rampaging without end, flesh melting and dripping off them before rapidly regenerating as they went. There is a green dragon by the name of Erdan who is known throughout the world to dabble in Necromancy and unleash his experiments on parts of the world, then study the results.... and it was known that he had a group of six children that he was not at all happy with. The exact reason why wasn't known, only that he was spotted chasing each of them down.
We took the job after we realized the likely connection and sent six teams there. Myself and the group I hunted down the ice banshee with was among them. We traveled south to the mage city of Vance to arrange a teleportation given the importance of quick action here and soon after we were in the temperate climes of Mercia. Specifically in a its capital which was in poor shape as its surrounding farm villages were afraid to ship any goods with the dragons roaming around. Each team split off in a different direction to find each dragon. We found ours to the south not far from the capital. In fact it was heading in that direction already before it stopped to try and eat us.
Dragons are notoriously dodgy to fight. Younger ones will almost never land willingly, instead opting to unleash magic and their breath from the sky. This makes grounding them incredibly vital. Usually the most important tool in this arsenal are enchanted bolas that extend in size when they strike their target, wrapping around and restraining them. Unfortunately, they're particularly heavy and not acid proof. Not normally a huge problem when we have time to prepare, but our first contact with the creature was it swooping in and breathing acid all along the path. All of us only survived by diving off of the wagon. We couldn't even save the horses, which let me tell you, watching a living creature slowly melt right in front of your eyes, its flesh slowly peeling away into acid bleached bone? Not a pleasant sight.
Still, I was young and reckless, especially after my hunt with the ice banshee. Rage burned in my blood at the thought that my companions could die here. So when it made its next pass, I unleashed shadow tendrils from my arms to wrap around it's tail and was carried off into the sky. There was a rush of adrenaline at being pulled airborne. The dragon seemed to not even feel my presence as it continued attacking below and its dripping flesh smacking against my face as I slowly unleashed more tendrils to slowly pull myself towards its body. Thinking back, I count myself lucky that it seemed to completely lack a sense of touch in its undead state. Perhaps it was due to the constantly melting flesh of its own. Such a feeling would create such agony that even if it was able to feel anything, there would be only pain.
Eventually I reached onto the disgusting gooey back of the beast and wrapped shadow tendrils around each of its wings and used them to pull its wings together. This resulted in the loss of control in its flight and we both slammed into the ground. I was sent flying and tried to use a cushion of shadow magic around me to stop my fall but I felt cracking in my ribs and lost my concentration before soon going unconscious. When I awoke, it was near a bonfire as the rest of my team was burning the body of the beheaded dragon while Kalolin treated my wounds. At least briefly. She was apparently not too happy with me as she punched me right in the snout as I woke up and I went unconscious again for a moment before waking in a bed back home in the Banshee Mountains village. Kalolin was watching over me and after screaming at me for about an hour about how reckless and stupid I was she told me what had happened after I brought the dragon down.
Hargak had rushed the creature immediately and chopped its head off with his enchanted axe and using a bit of size changing magic himself to make the task easier. Honestly didn't know he could do that, but then I never learned his magic specialization before this point. It definitely explains why he has always been able to move around large amount of mead casks so quickly when he's helping out in his father's tavern. The dragon's head however was still alive however. It was helpless in this state but it had whispered two words. "Kill me." Kalolin's magic was able to remove the undead taint from its head and then they decided to set fire to the body. The skull was kept as proof of the kill along with a green dragonstone with black veins running through it. Last I heard about it was that it was placed in a barrel of holy water with the five others, changed daily, to cleanse the taint out of them. Chances are we either sold them or used them to enchant jewelry after the purification process was completed.
After Action Report: Destruction of the HTTP Wanderpus
My knowledge of what occurred on the mission is limited. A strange flower-like object was brought on board that demanded study. Observations were made by various members of the crew. For my part I attempted to ascertain that it wasn't some plant-based living creature, a result that turned up negative as I sensed no desire from it. A fact that I am thankful for as such efforts often result in I myself sharing that desire until I quench it. A cold aura however pulsed out from it resulting in the freezing of Officer B+. I and several others at this point took her away from the lab to a warmer part of the ship to thaw her out.
During this process we received the following information:
The flower was a seedling for a world tree from another world.
This bloom resulted from reports about other worlds being written.
A similar flower sprouted a creature from another world that I will not elaborate further on due to the risks revealed.
Officer Levon had given strict orders to destroy the flower at this point. My first reaction was to sprint to the lab, ready to unleash all the strength I had on the specimen at once. To erase it from this world entirely, devoured by the shadow magic that resides within me. However, as I requested Officer Quet step away as they mused over exactly how it would be destroyed, it had already begun to sprout. I tried to unleash my magic then, destroy it before it could grow and destroy everything. It was far too durable unfortunately. This creature was tougher than what we had faced previously and shrugged off attacks like it was nothing. It was still lucky that I did however as the attack provided a cushion between myself and the beast, pushing me away from it with little more than the wind knocked out of me before the entire ship began shattering. All I could do at that point was swim to one of the life boats and pull myself aboard as it disappeared with B+ in tow. After that I have little idea of what occurred.
Given this new information I will be taking the initiative to compile information about my home world that I have written about in the past. While I'm uncertain if a similar link would occur as I'm not familiar with any word tree, the risk is likely too high to ignore. Please await my future report containing this information.
The Results of Midnight's Final Exam
The Fight (11)
Fighting was very much one of Midnight's specialties however this new world made many of his usual strategies more difficult as he was used to more control over his shadow magic. This world's rules however made everything flow a bit differently. Much of his training was done with the sword and finetuning himself to these new rules but even as the finals rolled around he was simply a passable fighter, holding his own in the one-vs-one fight while the obstacle course challenged him some but caused no significant issues. It was valuable to giving him the proper experience he needed to begin functioning at his best.
The Tinker(129 seconds remaining)
This was the test Midnight was dreading the most. He never considered himself particularly technical, more relying on simpler tools, his magic and physical prowess. He was all but convinced that he was going to fail this test until he got a good look at the device. The moment he set eyes on it however, memories of home came back to him. A group of alchemists called The Nutcracker Family would sometimes stop by the village to sell potions and explosives to the hunters. The youngest daughter, Nilly, would often play pranks on the kids of the village using small yield bombs more akin to firecrackers then proper explosives. Of course a young Midnight would end up a victim of this several times and chase after her each time. After a couple years however they had begun to be more friendly with each other, with Midnight occasionally observing her projects. He didn't quite understand every aspect of it and likely could never replicate himself but the way the bomb in front of him was put together reminded him of Nilly's methods. After tens of seconds of careful examination he put together what each connection was and disarmed the device with a few flicks of his claws.
Survival (11)
The key to survival is knowledge. Years of living in a mountain village, hunting monsters and wandering the woods had served Midnight well. This land was not his own however. Everything was unfamiliar. New. All he had to work with beyond his honed instinct were the lessons of the academy. Then there was the escort portion of the task. He was used to working with other hunters so more than a couple times he overextended and gave chase which left Adira vulnerable. He'd quickly catch on to the problem however and return to Adira, eventually resorting to protecting her with a small wall of shadow (Shield) to fend the wolves off. Finding the means to treat Adira largely fell unto others in his group though when given a description of what was being sought he was able to point out several possible paths which aided in the test's completion.
Rift Stitching (11)
The rift stitching was largely uneventful for Midnight with him being responsible primarily for keeping watch for townsfolk in the immediate surroundings of the rift while one member dived in to seal it and the others drew others to the bar to party. The one slip was when the diver's tether broke, requiring Midnight to think fast and lash his shadowwhip onto the broken tether to pull them to safety.
First Day on the Wanderpus
My home is lost to me. I don't know what happened in the Chaos Wood to create one of these "Rifts" but the odds of me getting back are low. It's still hard to believe. Still, I have to count my blessings that I am still alive. By all rights, I should have drowned in the ocean, or died slowly as I floated adrift. Luckily some rift hunters on a ship called the HTML Wanderpus found me and brought me up to speed. I agreed to put my skills to use for them as it's not like I have much else to do in this world. Who knows, maybe they'll even get me home. Until then I might as well enjoy myself, get to know some of these people, get to know this place called "Luminal". The technology of the ship is amazing. Reminds me of the technology of the Old World Golems in some ways though clearly different as well. Tomorrow I get shipped to Lockstitch Academy to learn the ropes and then I'll be able to assist on the ship. I just wish it didn't include a uniform. Who the hell wears these things? Give me fur and leather any day of the week. Their ship, their rules though and I owe them.
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