It had been quite sometime since he had entered the halls of the collective mind which his original body now rested, a truly morbid realization for anyone to think about for any sustained period of time, perhaps it was the reason why he had spent so long away from the guild was the shame that came with his downfall to the beast that now resided on his belt. It had certainly humbled him when he came to fight it, he had not expected to be so thoroughly destroyed to the point of needing a new body but here he now suited dressed in thick black leather garb concealing much of his machinal frame. Few had seen the real him since his transition into being more metal then flesh in reality little truly remained organic save for his brain and the transplanted hawken’s eye he had received some years ago from unusual hermit previously suspended in a jar of liquid. And yet for still someone in his standing, Kon felt a great deal of anxiety towards showing his new face, perhaps it was some combination of his own vanity and inability to accept what had happened but no matter the case he had simply requested that others respect his decision to remain within the helmet matching his venerable ensemble.

In reality, he would have likely stayed longer away from the guild building were it not for a constant buzzing that echoed throughout his head preventing him from formulating simple sentences let alone think clearly. Assuming the issue was related to some issue with the bionics and machine heart that now resided within him, Kon would have little choice but to return to the birth of his revival. There were only a handful of locations within Ishgar that could really help him, Talaz Lagaar and the Collective Mind itself, with the former being completely inaccessible the latter remained his only choice. It would in reality turn out not to just be his own facilities that were being impacted but instead with an ever increasing mass of collective mind members flocking towards its hall, something else, beyond just him, was amiss with the guild. Still hesitant to use his skeleton key citing the many issues he had with the artefact given the constant reports of the Dark Raiders still clawing into reality, he had instead used a combination of his own two feet and the Silisa during longer walk much to the resentment of both parties.

Crossing grassy fields, forests and mountainous extremes, the two eventually reached their destination, the Floating island of the Collective Mind, a venerable oasis in the volcano hostile wastelands that was Fieros Girdle. Recognizing that there were likely dozens more to come overtime and seeking to improve their chances of even getting onto the unusual piece of architecture, Kon drew up his hand towards the hall still mounted atop the Silisa and steadily drew it down towards the blackened ground away from the major sections of the lazy, molten pools of liquid rock. “At least on the ground members could enter without having to go through all the hurdles of getting into the air…” Buzzing still unrelenting, Kon entered the hallways with the silisa crossing the magma showing the same notice as one would a river in a stream. A true beast of fire, it had truly been a foolish endeavor to have fought them with what he had. Entering the building, the noise began to subside before coming to an end as the machia touched whatever had been causing the noise, removing it from his mind, however not from the minds of many others.

607/???

The merchant from Desierto was, well, being a merchant and doing merchant things. She was out and about on the town, expanding her business network and socializing with the aristocrats and merchants of the South. Things were going well, quite well actually, and a smile could be found across her face as she conversed and chatted with them. She thought about Khalfani. They would certainly have enjoyed some of this crowd. They were luxurious, spoiled, smooth talkers. She could see the family doing some work with them. Still, things were beginning to wrap up when the buzzing started. The buzzing? Ikanbi focused her thoughts, but instinctively, she knew. She was being summoned back to the guild hall, but for exactly what purpose she truly had no clue. It was like an ear worm, a listening sphincter, a tiny worm inside her head screaming, "come home!" And she couldn't turn it off no matter how she tried. She knew this type of magic, she had read about it before, but never experienced it first hand. She sighed audibly, which caught the attention of those nearby, for she had been quite for a little while before that. "Oh, sorry, I am needed elsewhere." She said politely, and she finished her drink of wine which she had been slowly sipping on. She had been enjoying having alcohol again since she was no longer pregnant, and Jafari was nicely being watched over by Khalfani and his family. Things had turned out better in that regard than she had expected and she was certainly not complaning.

She didn't set out immediately. She stayed and continued to chat for a while with the other merchants, exchanging contact information gracefully with everyone that she could and having a few more drinks. The journey ahead would be of no trouble to her, for Ikanbi was well versed in long journeys and grueling, taxing dilemnas, but now that she had the power of a god inside of her she had found that travelling through the lands was, well, easy. That isn't to say that it had been difficult before, no, she surely would still have described it as easy but with the power of Hermes, travelling was no chore for her at all. She downed the wine, then another, then another, and by the end of the night she was pleasantly drunk, and the buzzing in her head was all but gone, drowned by the slurriness and blurriness of a nice red wine drunken state. It was there, tucked away, but it wasn't as prominent as it could be. Never the less, she did depart from the little social gathering and began to make her way towards the guild hall. She exited the building and leapt into the air effortlessly, soaring several meters high and far in the span of mere seconds as though it were second nature to her, as though it wasn't taxing to her at all. Maneki stirred, he had been sleeping peacefully wrapped up in the folds of inner cloak pockets. "Hey little one." Ikanbi said to her feline friend. "It's time to go back to the library."

The two of them set off, traversing through the rooftops of the town and skipping the streets entirely. Leaping from roof to roof, Ikanbi and Maneki made their way out of the town in no time at all. She glanced at her watch and was surprised at how quickly she had made it out of the area in her drunken state. The world was a blur but Ikanbi was too. With haste she continued, jumping and hopping and effortlessly clearing distances as though the acts themself were of no consequence to her, and they weren't. Ever since she had been given the power of a god she had felt as though she weighed nothing. The act of jumping about and being like a rabbit wasn't taxing to her at all. As Ikanbi crossed carefully through the fiery lakes, she watched as the guild hall began to descend to the ground. "Well I guess I won't have to use the harpoon." She said to Maneki as she put the harpoon gun away into her bottomless pouch. She entered the guild hall swiftly, and surveyed it a bit. To the best of her knowledge, she may as well have been alone, or so she thought, when she heard commotion from a corridor nearby. "Hello?" She called out, and went to see who happened to be around. "I felt the summons, what's going on?" She said as she turned the corner and found Kon the Guild Master.

"Oh, hello Kon! Long time no see! I suppose you are the one who summoned me?"



783/???

After just finishing up a job in the ass-end of nowhere, Kazz finally had a chance to sit back and relax, and to boot the place he finished his job up at was a rather nice little place; much better than the regular type of location that Kazz got stuck with for protection missions. No hostile natives, voracious monsters, or environmental hazards; hell, he was kinda Bummed nothing went suddenly wrong, and he didn't even have to kill anybody/thing for this outing. Honestly, this was more of a paid vacation than a job. The hardest part so far was waiting for the client's team of geological surveyors to arrive from the mainland, but given the Mage was got an hourly wage for this gig, on top of a bonus upon completion, he wasn't really complaining about getting to do nothing. Of course, this was one of the jobs that Nensh found so he didn't expect anything even remotely close to dangerous, but she really outdid herself on this one Kazz could barely tell he was even on a job. So Kazz figured he would hang around here for a few days. The only problem Kazz had run into so far was the town's lack of entertainment venues. Sure, there were bars, but Kazz didn't really care for Bars and things like that so to him there was nothing to write home about. his first evening he spent seeing if there were any other ways for him to make money as good at the job he just finished paid Kazz would need much more capital if he want to make a real push at finding his lost clansmen. Unfortunately, the town was as peaceful as they come, not even a group of bandits to beat up. By day two, the place had already lost its charm, so he set out to find something more engaging to do. For once, Kazz wished he had some vicious threat to deal with. Nothing in the forests or surrounding ocean really was particularly threatening; hell, the sharks weren't even that big or ornery. In a last, desperate attempt at entertainment, he decided to hit up what souvenir shops and local businesses were around, the latter of which lead him to visit a bait shop on a whim.


To the best of his knowledge, the last time he'd gone fishing It'd been off the Joyan coast with his fellow clansmen for giant crabs with venomous claws; so, a fishing trip without the threat of drowning or dismemberment hanging over his head sounded rather novel. After getting a tip for a good spot, Kazz picked up the best rod/reel combo available, a simple tackle box and he was off. It was only a short walk from the shop to a promising area, which he assumed was the spot, home to many jetties and several other anglers already. Unlike a few others, the Mage decided to set up on the bank, figuring there could be a few larger specimens hiding among a jetty's support beams in the shade.
Kazz meticulously checked his spinning reel for faults before putting a simple jerk bait on the line but put off casting a little longer. He gave his clothes the same level of attention, as he calmly folded his Coat and laid it on the grass beside where he was sitting. The Mage stood for a moment, as Nensh vanished off to take a nap like she so often does in Kazz's downtime Kazz pulled a drink from the tacklebox he had brought along and looked out on the water. With the drink in one hand and the fishing rod in the other, Kazz flipped open the reel's bail and effortlessly cast the line close to fifty yards. He let the bait just rest for a moment, while he cracked open and had the first sip of his drink, before setting the drink aside to start reeling the line back in, steady and hopefully enticingly. Kazz barely had to reel in the lure for thirty seconds before he got a hit. Besides a sharp tug on the line, he could still make out an atypical splash in the surf at the point of impact. Despite his considerable strength, the Mage took his time bringing his catch, both to wear the fish out and hopefully avoid breaking the line. He admittedly hadn't bought a spool with the best tensile strength. Still, it didn't take long for him to see what he'd hooked: a perhaps ten-pound species of perch he didn't recognize. Kazz debated with himself as he held the mottled animal by the bottom lip, wondering if he was in a catch-and-release mood or if he could go for a fish fry in a bit...

With his decision made, he took hold of the knife at the small of his back cleared its sheath in half a second, then severed the perch's spine with surgical precision via just a swift jab. The Mage laid his catch on a nearby log, having checked for ants and the like, before heading back to cast into the surf a second time. Shortly after, the perch was joined by similar specimens arranged in a neat row; although, a cheeky gull snatched one near the center while Kazz had his hands full. He'd just unhooked another gullible perch when he heard a buzzing in the back of his mind started. Near instantly Nensh appeared beside him "What did you do?! What's this buzzing?! I can't take a nap for 5 minutes without you doing something to try and kill us can I?" The Mage slowly panned around to the very upset cat with the fish still in one hand and the knife in the other, and immediately gave her a snarky response "You forgot already? Thats the guild calling me." The Cat gave him a look of annoyance "Yes, yes I remember now. it just took a few seconds for it to register. Im just waking up after all." she would say as she pawed at her eyes "What do you think they want?" "No idea but it must be something big. This is the first time they have used it since we been i have been in the guild. It can wait until later at the very least,  I cook up these fish before another damn bird snatches one." he added, shaking the perch in his grip for emphasis at the end. Afterward, the Mage casually killed the fish like he had the others.

AfterKazz had cooked eating and packed the leftover away he turned his attention to making his way to the guild hall. Now he had only been there once and even that felt like a dream, so he wasn't 100% sure how to get there but he did remember he needed to go to Fieros Girdle. He had hoped to find some more clues as to where the guild hall was when he got there. The closer he got to Fieros Girdle the more things started to come back to him which Led to an annoying realization on his part that the guild Hall could fly. He rubbed his temples  Collective Mind was the premier Guild for the smartest Mages yet they would do something so dumb as to have a flying guild hall. Nensh appears walking beside him. "You forgot already? The guild hall flies." The cat said sarcastically Kazz would cut his eyes at her Did you just come out just to be unhelpful or what?" The cat would smirk "Of course! But i doubt they would have called you back to the guild without a way to find it." Thats when it hit him the guild hall was near a volcano. After stopping at a nearby shop he got directions to the closest volcano in the area. He spent the rest of the day traversing lava pools and the perpetual hell that was the area around the volcano. All the while looking to the sky to try and spot the floating building. he was starting to get discouraged after traveling for so long and not seeing it. That was until he ventured over a ridge only to find the guild hall. It slightly annoyed him that the guild hall was not up in the air but he was someone relieved that he didn't have to figure out a way to get up to it.

As the two enter the building Nensh turns to Kazz "You think they called everyone in the guild here or just us? I would hate for this to be one of those awkward getting-to-know-you meetings. Especially since it's such an ass-ache to get here. It's just so weird that they call us out of know where I don't think we have even met any of the other guild members out and about." the longer Nensh talked the faster and more worried her voice sounded. Kazz stopped and placed his hand atop her head "Calm down whatever this is I'm sure everything will be fine I doubt it's anything world-shattering they just might be doing this to take a head count or make by Exchange notes and add to the library. let's not forget why we join this place over other guilds if anyone in the world knows what happens to our clansmen they most certainly will belong to this guild." The gravel crunched under the heavy weight of the Mages footwear until they came to a halt. Two large eyes glared from underneath fringes of black hair, admiring the sight of the Guildhall. Kazz released a deep breath from his mouth, the warm feeling from the nearby lava pools. Kazz placed his hands on the guild doors and pushed them open. A loud creaking sound passed over as the front door was opened. the sound seems to echo for miles it was odd to Kazz to have such a big guild hall and for it to be mostly empty But Kazz thought it best not to worry too much about this like that right now. A chattering hum bounced off the walls echoing its inhabitant's voices louder than seemed possible, From what Kazz could tell there were already at least a few people here. That should make this less painful, he would have hated to be the first one to make it here or even worst be the only one called here. Knowing this put him at ease a bit just as he rounded a corner he saw two other figures one looked human enough and the other one didn't look human in the slightest it awoke an odd fight or flight response in the back of his brain like some long forgotten enemy or threat had just presented itself in front of him this feel could only be described as the uncanny valley effect he remembered some elder clansmen talk about this when they were discussing fighting an odd type of anime that could mimic the look of humans. Kazz pushed these feelings aside for the time begin not wanting to cause any trouble. He was thankful that he was the only one who could hear Nensh because of this because she had far less restraint when it came to matters like this. The Mage thought it best to not interrupt the two and just wait at the far corner of the room until he was needed. He could tell these two were much stronger than he was so whatever this call was about was undoubtedly going to be over his head. which just might be what he needs to break out of the babysitting Merchant and traveler jobs he hated taking.


2020/2000

Beep beep beep.

a series of obnoxious beeping was repeatedly resounding through the air, in one of the deeper chambers of the floating structure that made the Collective Mind guild building a small figure was excitedly tinkering away onto a gadget of sorts while a large metallic figure stood next to her. "Puuh~ this buzzing is almost as terrible as the noise Underdark flies make..." As she muttered that statement the metallic figure beside her hummed with mana coursing through its system. "I know Knight~ I know~ must be one of the alarms, but why now? It makes no sense for them to suddenly start buzzing for no reason."

Picking up the gadget she stashed it away and started waddling over to the other side of the workshop, the larger frame beside her stepping more slowly as the child-like being tapped several buttons on what appeared to be a device that soon started projecting a sight most intriguing.

Several individuals had started gathering on the surface level of the guild hall, but more intriguing was the fact among them was a armored figure, its helmet somewhat familiar. "Wait a second... I seen him before on the projectors! It must be, no doubt! That must be the very same guy who did the shingmabing with that one lady and then popped like that. But, I don't think he is the reason for all this buzzing."

She went quiet for a moment, a hand raised to her cheek as she tapped it lightly. "Primaire simulations suggest they might had been called here by the noise. However, if that is the case, there is no doubt about it." The Machia nodded her head firmly. "They must be what mortals call: Neighbors!"

Clapping her hands together excitedly the lass started turning toward the exit of her workshop, her pace increasing as she darted along the corridors. "I wonder what purpose they have for coming here~ It's not often mortals find their way to this place, and it's even less often that they become neighbors! Finally reaching the exit of the corridor she stepped outside the corridor, finding herself on a higher floor's elevation compared to the others and leaning over the railing the child-like Machia peered straight down at the group while her Magia Suit remained stationary beside her, its larger silhouette making it amusingly easy to spot the duo despite the child's efforts to appear stealthily.

"They are multiplying..." Primula whispered in awe as she saw more people arrive, her hands gripping the railing lightly. "Secondary processing of this information makes me determined that the reason behind their presence is the same obnoxious sound that disrupted my tinkering..."

Tap, tap tap, peeking over the railing by means of standing on the tip of her toes the child's focus soon turned toward the leader of the neighborhood party as she whispered softly. "Maybe I should put on my helmet also, perhaps it is considered tradition among their kin..."

Gently raising a hand to the side of her collar, she tapped which appeared to be a switch as her head became encased in a piece of hardened armor, black vapor coiling around her being to conceal her identity from anyone. To the others she might had even looked like some sort of mysterious and ominous-looking knight. Even if said knight had the stature of a child...

To make matters even more excitable, another stranger arrived, causing the tiny knight to climb onto the railing and exclaim proudly. "My identification code is Primula! Not 'Lovelies!' the child exclaimed annoyedly as she crossed her arms underneath her chest. "Not to mention, ever since you all first set foot here-" She pointed toward the masked man and continued. "This place been abuzz, literally since you came here! and now you even made my home get grounded, also literally... Isn't it part of the civilized world's traditions that neighbors introduce themselves before sending my workshop down to ground zero?"

She hopped down from the railing, quite literally crashing into the ground near the group while her Mech companion floated a bit higher over the railing and landed beside her. Peering up at Saturn she couldn't help but mutter in bewilderment. "I didn't knew giants still existed on Earthland, my records suggested they were purged during the Jyuian purge..."

She brought a hand to her armored helmet's chin and pondered for a moment. "First this noisy buzzing, then the neighborhood party appears... I wouldn't be surprised if this was another prank from Talaz Lagaar, it's been a while since they last send a message to the workshop, so maybe this is a way of them saying hello."

The walking jukebox finally went quiet as she turned toward Kon, a few steps being taken as she stopped right in front of him. "In case you're responsible for the buzzing, please turn it off? There is someone trying to sleep inside, at least I think they are asleep. I only seen them on the monitor in my workshop so I can't say for sure if they are asleep or dead..."

WC 866

It was cold. This shrieking ear splitting noise summoned shivers down her spine. The girl covered her ears but it didn't stop. Her eyes darted around hunting for the source of this heresy l, hungering to end this suffering, drooling to purge this wretched collection of sin. Unfortunately, nobody there there. No fool dare enter to sacred space upon which the the girl called her bedroom. So the only thing left to do was to allow faith to guide her forward.

Due to the absurd torturous alarm, the girl could not care to her appearance as much as she wished to. Her gear was in her necklace which hung around her neck on display. A pink halo hovered above her head showcasing not only her promise but Illumin's love for her. It was nothing less for the hearld of rapture. Her black headress hung down to her stomach with the gold band over her forehead appearing slightly crooked. Even the tails of the headbands appeared uneven. Strains of hair hung from under the band. Her black long sleeve dress with a white undershirt show signs of wrinkles in the spots she frequently clench to bear this sinful sound. Her brown boots where scuffed, not from battle but from the stress stomping. As soon as she was out of her own residence, she started her March.

Her sword burned with furious white flames l, leaving behind a trail of dying embers as she dragged the tip along the ground. She lacked the will power to pick it up or mask her malicious yet exhausted glare as she walked down the street. Her free hand clampped onto her head despite the lack of results in muffling the sound. Hours of mindlessly walking into the direction of the sound, the girl eventually found herself starting at a floating chunk of heretical rock.

She rubbed her darken eyes unsure what it was. It was clearly out of her reach... for now. Then a brief repreeve of the irritating sound have her a moment to recall something some tin man told her. "A floating library.... is this that heathen organization he promised would give me more freedom?" The girl knew she should stop accepting the promises of sinners. Time and time again, they would disappear, die, and betray her. Even now she had nothing but doubt but... the few important bonds she made scratched at the corners of her mind. Though  plague with cold thoughts and blizzards of memories she wished could be purged from her mind, there were warm spots and brief moments that numbed everything else... if only for a moment. This was the remnants of those spots that pushed her to make one more bad decision. "Thanks mother... once again you delay me from my quest. You keep me just one step away from curing this sick world."

The girl took a deep breath summoning the new powers that Illumin blessed her with but before the warmth, the love from his light could fill her, she stops. She had never admitted or shown her gifts to the world yet. How boring would it be for sinners to learn of these gifts due to laziness. How sinful would it be for those who seek to hide from her forgiveness to be empowered with the forbidden knowledge meant to remove the worst of scum from the chains of suffering they find themselves dedicated to. Those souls addicted to the pain of thos world would only be more prepared. While it would not matter in the end, it would slow down the proccess.

So now the question the sleeve deprived teen had to answer was... how to asend this gap. She had a flight spell sure but she was too annoyed to waste his flames on such a trivial task. So that left something she had not used in ages thanks to a certain key that was stolen from her. She closed her eyes and cycled though the various things she had to remember to pull out the signal she taught herself and her mount. Only after a few seconds of thought did she recall that whistle. Placing two figures in her mouth, the girl blew a loud note filled the air. Before long a WHITE wyvern decended before her. Climbing onto its back, the girl let the creature fly her to the heretical flying rock. Finally, she was here and free from the wretched sound.

Walking forward, the girl soon learned she was not alone. Voices of the unfamiliar were like Whispers under the sound of burning metal screaming under the tip of her sword. One of those whispers had a name... well technically two but she did not count the tin man and she only very recently met him. However, that did not answer for the other four. Upon reaching the room, the whispers would turn to full on discussions. Worst than that, she had sinful faces to sinful voices.

The first face she looked at was Kon. A huff freed her to find the next face. Ikanbi was someone she could smile at had the events if today not occur. Should the woman make mention if her, Tempris would give a brief smile before moving onto the next face. A black hair pale man with a sinful air of arrogance around him. Maybe it was something she put on him to justify her feelings but that was here or there. The face that followed was a being of great sin. She could feel the power radiating from him but the girl could find herself grinning cheek to cheek. Her sword flared up before the girl let out a soft giggle. The next person had a similar air about them but at the same time, it was nowhere near as powerful. In fact, after further observation, she just considered them only human. Finally there was the dark skin, what she would assume to be a man. Upon laying her eyes on him, she felt a certain furry build up inside. It was as if he was the greatest sinners here no... that wasn't it. Sinners she felt sorry for. Sinners were beings she wished to save. This man was someone who her body just hated. Did they kick a puppet in their pass life? Where they someone she knew? He was only human right. She gripped her sword as ice mana started to leak through her hand.

She had to focus on something else. She needed a distraction less she find herself acting most impolite. Pulling her sword up into the air, she rested it onto her shoulder before finding a corner of the room to stand in. From there she impaled her blade into the ground and feel into a cross-legged sitting style. She then clasped her hands and began praying. She was going to really need Illumins help to contain herself. This had to be a sign from him. "I will pass your test mi lord. Father, I am ready to reach the next phase of your plan for me."

WC: 1183

Concealing the mechanical device within his shirt pocket, Kon looked on as numerous members of the Collective Mind began to make their way through to the hall way. A sense of pride began to well up within him, it was an accomplishment that he could be truly happy with unlike years prior controlling the Sentinel Syndicate he felt as though he and the people he had collected even inadvertently were achieving a net positive. Gone were the days of torture and torment at his hands and those that served under him. Of course his influence on the guild was a lot looser compared to that of years prior with many of the founding members now entirely absent perhaps on a long term project or no longer wished to be in the organization either way he was just happy that they had found their calling. He find himself somewhat conflicted as many entered the hall who were entirely unrecognizable to him, perhaps they were recruited by others, no matter he relished the chance for new minds and aspiring adventurers. Though one of them stuck out like a sore thumb leaving him somewhat embittered by their childish behaviour, for now however he would need to assess and gather up what was a rather diverse crew for a fantastic journey which had been planned for many months now that had previously remained under a closely knit secret.

A trip to Desierto!, an archeology trip to be specific, he had gained many friends there over time and it seemed only appropriate at this point with their guild prospering as it was to expand their presence and reach. Scanning his peripherals it appeared the first of the summoned individuals had been none other then Ikanbi, an unassuming Desierto native from what he could recall, a perfect guide to the harsh country, at least he hoped. They had definitely grown as an individual even in the short time span, “did they recognize the inner strength they now possess?” Scouring the tanned mage for perhaps a bit too longer garnering as much information as he could using his magically augmented optics, before finally returning the greeting. With the most subtle of nods, he acknowledged them before guiding them to seat down nearby.

“It’s good to see you as well Ikanbi, please take a chair, more are on the way I’m sure.” Spotting a seemingly innocuous mage in the far distance trying to both conceal in the shadows yet listen into the conversation, Kon motioned to them as well towards the neighbouring seat to which Ikanbi had just been guided. “Come, no need for the secrecy we’re all friends here, I’m Kon, I don’t believe we have met, like I was just mentioned to Ikanbi, please take a seat while we wait for some more.” Perhaps they were unsure of their place within the whole situation, hoping to relieve them, he continue in his mechanical voice. “Fear not while the strong are definitely useful, even just a part of hands will be immensely helpful for what is ahead of us.”

The next arrival to take his eye was a man, giant even that he had met and formally recruited within Minstrel, a country that had grown the Collective Mind to even healthier numbers, securing both Saturn and Kon’s distant cousin, Tempris who seemed to be mysteriously absent for the time being inspite of their shared arrival to Fiore. Saturn was a powerful figure to be sure, with origins that felt more otherworldly than almost any other that he had met before. Titanic in stature, Kon gestured towards the equivalent of two chairs side by side, perhaps the only way for them to sit down equal to the others. Rather then answering any more of the questions raised to them lest he repeat himself, he simply remarked to the golden figure. “All in due time, all that’s important to know is they are friends.” As though they were ants in an ants nest, more individuals seemingly out of nowhere whom had faces entirely unfamiliar to him appeared to be shifting into the hall from every corner and floor of the Guild Hall, one of which seemed to resemble a child more then anything else in height providing the same level of exposition on their life as a philosopher whom hadn’t spoken to anyone in decades and perhaps they hadn’t, their figure even from the distance revealed much to the man just as did their acknowledge of Talaz Lagaar.

“A Machia with the mind of a child…” A complicated concept to be sure, he had his own issues with a mechnical body, but never developing an adult mind was something of a terrifying thought. This, Primula, individual certainly was a chatty one, with him doing just as he had with all the others albeit far more short in response to their extended dialogue and pointing in a seat just opposite of the giant whom they had just referenced in case they wanted a closer look at them. “Sit, child.” Rubbing the chin of his helmet in more of a self-soothing fashion rather to address an itch, Kon looked on almost growin somewhat of a concern as the number of available seats would have diminished, he was in good spirits that the guild had become so large but it was almost appropriate for them to have what would be a rather lengthy meeting in a place that might be more accommodating to more people.

The thought was swiftly vaniquised as even more entered the halls, this time another Desierto native with a complicated past which Kon knew remarkably little amount only hearing vague stories, while they had taken a pact from a being of the abyss previously mortal enemies with Kon’s own kind, he had little reservations accepting them, times were changing and he needed to be more accepting of people choosing different paths, his cousins own thoughts on the matter might be something else entirely, he could only hope and pray the two would be able to work together or at least he could separate the two in a way that their differences could be overlooked.

But the real question was just where was his religious crazed relative? While they were definitely tardy, Tempris did eventually arrive perhaps to make a show in their introduction or just because they were slow. “No matter…” he muttered under his breath and instead humbled his cousin’s religious devotion before borderline commanding his relative to take a seat alongside the others, family or no, they were a community and he wouldn’t be hiding in a corner just like any other of the members of the guild. “Sheath your blade Cousin, come sit down, it’s time for us to talk, plans are already in motion and we must prepare for our journey if we are to achieve what is to come.”

Giving all of the “invited” individuals plenty of time to sit, Kon finally began to expand upon the journey they would be undertaken one which would likely annoy both Saturn and Tempris whom he had just taken away from the country they had just came from. “We are heading for a rumored tomb of a notorious historical figure in Deseirto’s wasteland and will need, unfortunately, go through Minstrel crossing the sea, I’ve gone ahead and commissioned a vessel for 20 people and enough storage for some “artefact collection.”” As he spoke he shifted his gaze to Saturn and Tempris almost to apologize to the two while admitting the questionable activities they were about to undertake. Rubbing his chin once more, left the air open for questions and comments from the other around him.

1906/???

The keen huntress from Desierto eyed Kon the guild master with awe. What a journey he had surely been through, what with the wild fight with the fire drake and his transition into something...beautiful. Whereas some others may have found Konyo's appearance unsettling, well, perhaps offputting was the better word, Ikanbi found it fitting. She had read up on Konyo at some point and learned of their vicious past. A long road it surely was to turn from a vampire into the hunk of metal and magics that stood before her now. He was gastly, dark, foreboding in appearance. He looked like the type of person you would expect to be affiliated with Eternal Nightmare. Kuvakiri would have enjoyed his dark attire, she knew. Still, Ikanbi felt no fear in his presence. She never did. A smile emblazoned itself across her face and for a brief moment she made what would have been eye contact were she able to even see his eyes through the hunk of metal that now resided over his dome. She wondered to herself momentarily what her own mechanical body might really look like. She had been working on designs of it here and there in her spare time, but seeing her guild master in this particular lighting caused her to rethink her design a little bit. Perhaps something a little more angelic in appearance then? Something more soothing, something more pleasing, something less grim and dark and husky.

The thoughts of her designs drifted away soon as she caught a peak of another mage joining them, though choosing to keep their distance for the time being. "Come along now, no need to be shy, the scary robot man doesn't bite after all." Said Ikanbi with a slight chuckle to her voice as she motioned for Kazz to draw closer to them. "I'm Ikanbi, it is a pleasure to meet you." She said to him and again gestured for them to join them. Ikanbi herself did not yet take a seat and added, "I think I'll sit once the rest of them have arrived."

And sure enough, more of them did begin to trickle in. One by one others graced the guild hall with their presence. A huge, titanic otherworldly creature of a being made his way in next and Ikanbi's jaw dropped against her will. She wasn't afraid, no, she was never afraid, but shocked was definitely a good word to use to describe how she felt about Saturn. "Holy shit." Escaped from Ikanbis lips softly as she eyed the golden magnificent being before her. If they were here, that had to mean they were at least benevolent in nature, Ikanbi couldn't dare think that Kon would have summoned anyone to the guild hall that was a threat to the rest of them. Still, with such an imposing and towering figure it was hard not to be taken aback. They seemed lovely though, what with how they spoke and the general grace of their movements even if they were a lumbering goliath. "You must be ten feet tall." She admired out loud and then gauged his height against the architecture to realize that he was, as a matter of fact, ten feet tall. "It is good to meet you, er, my name is Ikanbi" She had said to saturn and offered her hand to the behemoth before her, admiring his golden coat. Her feline companion the Maneki Nico leapt from the folds of Ikanbi's cloak and sniffed at Saturn, having otherwise ignored Kon and Kazz' presence.

Nico the Maneki Nico rubbed up against Saturn's leg, to which Ikanbi quickly scolded them lightly, "Not everyone wants to be your friend Nico," she had said aloud, and made an effort to recall the feline to her. "Sorry about that." Ikanbi said to Saturn, apologizing for the unwanted affection from her little furry friend. But perhaps Saturn truly didn't even mind.

The next to grace their presence had been Primula, whom stood out as another oddity of sorts to Ikanbi almost immediately. There was something off about them, something strange that she couldn't quite put her finger on, but try as she might she couldn't figure it out. She shrugged the thought aside and introduced herself anyway, "It is good to meet you, I am Ikanb" She had said to them politely. Ikanbi wondered who else might show up to this little meeting of minds, when Zayir also stepped into the fold. 

"Ah yes, Zayir, it is good to see you again." She had said to the man, extending her hand to grasp at his forearm in a warrior's handshake. "I hope things have been well for you here in Fiore." She added with a grin. She had a great deal of respect for Zayir, especially after having done some digging. It took a lot to leave Desierto, she of all people knew. It was home in ways that Fiore could never even begin to be. The women, the men, the people, things were just different here and couldn't even begin to compare. Lastly, Ikanbi's eyes found Tempris as they entered their little meeting area. Ikanbi was filled with delight. Of all the people she wanted at her side for whatever was about to occur, she was glad Tempris was one of them.

"Hello dear!" Said Ikanbi as Tempris joined them, "It is good to see you again!" She said excitedly to Tempris before finally taking her seat amongst the chairs. Her feline ears perked up as Kon began to talk a bit about the reason for their being summoned together in the first place. Some ruin spelunking eh? A trip back to Desierto was long overdue for the Huntress, and the very thought of doing so resonated with her in ways that made her audibly pur with delight, a feat which surprised her feline companion, whom had always taken an interest in her ears and tail but had never actually heard Ikanbi pur before. Ikanbi remained silently however and didn't say anything else yet.

1790/2000

The sound of chains rattling in the air, like the sound of tiny clinking bells orchestrated by a troupe of phantoms, echoed with every footfall of the woman of faith clad in black. The threads of now white hair cascaded down from beneath he black veil framing the pale face of the huntress. Her scarlet sanguine eyes gazed at the wounded dire wolf before her, her face solemn and serene as the beast snarled and bore it's fangs out of desperation. The woman set down an onyx coffin wrapped in chains, the bed of the deceased was adorned with seals and religious scripts of a language long forgotten.

The woman spoke in a clear tone, her words directed to the wold as if the wild beast would understand her words. As her lips would part with every work she said, the tips of her fangs would show from beneath her pale lips. "A shame, very much t is.  To hunteth such a creature liketh thee.  I wouldst has't did like to alloweth thee wend.  Yet, thee've develop a gust f'r the blood of the m'rtals.  Blood f'r blood, fang f'r fang, as is mine own duty.  The hunteth shalt endeth with thy blood" her words were structured and uttered in archaic fashion as she approached the animal, her slender fingers unfurled revealing pitch black nails which tapered to a razor sharp point. The wolf would lunge forward at the woman with its fangs and claws. Yet, the huntress stood her ground, she lifted her arm in response to the beasts attack. The wolf would clamp down its jaws on her forearm like a vice, but the woman of faith did not flinch nor waver. She simply grabbed the dire wolf's ear with her free hand, speaking in an ancient tongue with the slightest hint of playfulness in her voice. "auribus teneo lupum" She said as her claw like nails dug into the face of the beast. She then lifted the large wolf up with noticeable effort before slamming the creature down with a sickening thud. The audible sound of bones breaking and squelching of tearing flesh echoed into the air, as the dire wolf relinquished its hold and let out a squeal.

The woman flexed her injured arm, as she looked down at her blood stained sleeve. Thankfully the raven black cloth hid the crimson stains well. The wound had already began to close as the woman's blood rapidly coagulated, though the injure was far from fully healed she certainly would no longer bleed out. She took a step forward and gazed down at the once dangerous animal. She had decided to hunt the creature after discovering that the beast was reason for the disappearance of a number of people from a near by village. "I asketh thee f'r forgiveness. Aut neca aut necare..." she whispered softly as she pet the mane of the wounded creature. A pool of blood had begun crawl out from beneath the body of the bleeding dire wolf. She then opened her mouth revealing her dagger like fangs just before biting down at the wolfs neck, she did so with utmost accuracy as her fang pierced through the hide and flesh, finally severing a major artery. The man hunting beast's blood filled the woman's mouth, as she tasted the iron from the crimson ichor that now coated her tongue and lips. At first the taste was sweet and warm, but it quickly turned to a burning sensation as if she had drank a glass of acid. Just as quick was her bite, the woman of faith pulled back retching, as her body convulsed as her whole being rejected the crimson liquid in her mouth. She immediately spat out the blood in disgust, aggressively wiping the blood with her sleeve.

The crimson blood had smeared upon her lips like some sort of macabe lipstick. She sighed as she regained her composure as she watched the life of the man eating wolf extinguish from its eyes. She lifted her eyes up to the sky and closed it, as she said a silent prayer. She stood there for a few seconds with her hands clasped together before ending her brief communion with her Lord. She took the coffin and slung it on her back as if it some sort of bag before heading deeper into the forrest. She reflected on her battle, realizing how far her strength had degraded to nothing more than a pathetic husk of her former self. The sister of an old faith knew very well her new colleges would have quickly dispatched the creature with ease. She did not want to be a burden and so she had attempted to keep her distance from the others until she was more worthy to walk beside them. However, through the means of some unknown desu ex machina, she felt familiar force pulling her towards a certain direction.

The sister knew that it was a summon from the master of the guild she had recently affiliated with. The sensation was similar but not quite like how she would be summoned by the church of blood. Although she felt like her abilities were lacking, she would not ignore the beacon. With much haste she made her way towards the call of her guild. She simply followed her instincts towards the guild hall, only stopping to wash the blood from her face when she passed by a stream of water. The journey took her towards a volcano where the guild hall resided. Eventually she had made her way inside stopping only to ready a basket of cookies she had bought during her travels. Though they weren't exactly fresh, the heat from the current location had certainly warmed the treats up to a degree that would make the consumption of the desserts more enjoyable. She prepared herself for a brief moment before entering the room where the meeting of her guildmates were being held.

She did her best to enter discreetly, but lugging a basket of cookies..... and a coffin... made things difficult to say the least. Even so she walked in with purpose with a warm smile on her lips. Her crimson gaze scanned the room, she noticed there seemed to be others who knew each other already, and some a stranger to the rest just like herself. Her eyes fell upon the leader of the guild, it was her first time meeting him. The man was clad in black leather, his face hidden beneath a raven black helmet. His appearance reminded the woman of the templar knights of the church of blood. She nodded to herself before finally speaking up. "Pardon me f'r mine own tardiness.  Mine own name is Rosaria Gracefell, a pleasure to meet thee all.  I has't hath brought treats f'r everyone shouldst any of thee wisheth to partake." Rosaria said as she lifted the basket of cookies as she approached the rest of her guild mates. Seeing that the number of chairs was dwindling, she simply set down her coffin at an open space, and sat upon it as if it was some lawn chair she had brought for a picnic. She held the basket on her lap, hoping that her new comrades would ask for some. Rosaria was unable to catch the full briefing, but she was able to hear just in time that there would be some sort of expedition and recovery of artifacts of sorts. She decided to remain quiet and watch things unfold until she was spoken to. Even so being in such a room filled with potentially new friends and allies, warmed her soul. The happiness bubbling inside her causing her smile brightly revealing her surgically sharp fangs for but a brief second.

_________________________
WC: 1,294
TPWC: 1,294

Kazz was one of the first to arrive at the guild hall he watched as the hall slowly started to fill with people he had never seen before. He hadn't been in the guild very long so he expected not to see too many familiar faces, but as things moved forward he started to realize that not too many of the other guild members knew each other. This was a small relief to him as what he could only describe as a golden dog-like Creature introduced itself. this was a little off-putting at first but he remember back to his travels and recalled coming across a few demihumans and figured that's what the one called Saturn was he had a someone warm personality which put Kazz at easy.

the next to show up was a tiny "person" in armor who came crashing down from overhead, they talked in a very strange manner but they seemed harmless enough. the next to show up was someone who immediately put Kazz on edge just one look what enough for Kazz to see he was a demon Having known what happen just a few years ago Kazz wasn't too sure that having a demon in the guild was a wise idea but it was not his place to say something like that, A thought did cross his mind to ask if the demon knew of his Clansmen tho. He doubted it would help too much but since he had never actually had an opportunity to talk with one it at the very least would be Insightful into a demon's mindset. Just as he pondered when would be an appropriate time to ask these things yet another tiny thing wounder in. Yet another member who looked like a small child was in the guild for a second he thought of making a comment on this but chose to keep it to himself in the fear of it being in poor taste after all you can only make a first impression once. This small one was vastly different than the first he was more zealot than her appearance let on but after seeing that this guild has Attracted all kinda he wasn't surprised in the least.

Just when it seemed the Arrivals had died down a woman that seemed of blood and flowers made her entrance bearing cookies and a strange dialect that Kazz could only half understand. from the look of her skin, she wasn't human, or at least she wasn't any human that he has ever seen he did Decipher enough to catch her name which was more than enough for him for the moment. At the second it hit him he had been here nearly the longest and had not introduced himself. He could almost feel the disapproving look of his grandmother remembering of the Saito clan had to should pride in everything they do and by leaning against a wall off in the far corner by himself he was doing his Clan a disservice. Kazz straightened up and cleared his throat "My apologies i haven't introduced myself I am Kazz of the great and powerful Saito Clan of Joya." Shortly after his introduction the guild master started Offering seats and giving more insight into what they would be doing. Once the floor was open for questions Kazz took it upon himself to ask something. "Given the fact that you called so many of here I'm not wrong in Assuming that we are looking for something in particular."

[603]

When Primula received the curt reaction from Kon her body tensed for a moment, and it was fortunate she had been wearing a helm because otherwise there was no doubt a scowl would had been visible on her expression. To think he had the gal to command her to sit, and even call her a mere child! Primula turned her back at the Machia, but not before mumbling in annoyance. "My name is Primula, not child."

She walked over to the seat he had pointed at, which was fortunately enough one quite close to the seat of the gigantic Demigod. However, before she could even take a seat one of the other members of the Neighborhood party introduced themselves, leading Primula to nod her head lightly in acknowledgment while the helmet started to shift as if integrating with her head and revealing the innocent smile on her face. "Nice to meet you Ikanbi~"

However, the one who truly drew her attention was one of the late arrivals: Rosaria who had come swooping in with the charm of a cupid as she offered various treats and sweets to the group. A nice notion, and one that clearly worked on Primula for the little Replicant hopped off her seat and approached Rosaria. "Welcome to the Neighborhood party Rosaria~ My name is Prim! And thank you for the cookies~"

As she scooped up one of the cookies in her hands she looked curiously at it, a soft hesitant nibble following after which she paused, looking almost frightened. "Oh no..." the Replicant muttered as she took another nibble and another. "I forgot to ask the professor to install Taste Receptors alongside my upgrades..." Dropping her shoulders in defeat, she had to admit that right now the cookies might as well had tasted like dust! if dust had a flavor? "W-What flavor are the cookies?" Primula asked hesitatingly to Saturn while she went to take back a seat before the big tin man could call her 'child' again.

Still, to think they would be going to Desierto... Quite a peculiar place to visit if she was honest. It wasn't a place known for its technological advances so they likely were going to search for relics and artifacts of the magical variant. Not that she cared in particular about that subject, but for now she felt it would at least be considered fun to tag along with the crew on their trip.

WC: 400

Surprisingly Tempris was not the last person to arrive. The new sound of cold footsteps singing the threat of repression, punishment, and cold memories creeping up behind her. All of this forced the girl to half open one eye and inspect the being who threaten her own comfort inside her mind. Soon enough red hungry eyes behind white hair brought forth something different, something special. Now instead of a cold heretical church, it was a warm picnic being ruined by a blood sucker despite it being mid day. A fire burned inside of her, not with the anger she had for another one in the room but with the potential idea for who this woman was. A fire burned with her petty spite with vampires.

The girl closed her eyes again not wanting to further taint her vision with the cold memories in her chip shoulder. That would not save her ears as the woman's weird speech drilled into her psychic. Of course she would have a distinct way of talking. It made it so much harder to drown out her sinful words. Even the treats she brought were probably filled with sin or blood or something stupid, though the idea of giving out free cookies was not sinful and had Tempris been in a better mood, she might have begrudgingly accepted. However the teenager was still amidst in her own tantrum because of that dreaded noise that summoned her here. At least she had her name now. "Rosaria Gracefell" the girl repeated quietly. It was a fitting name for a fallen sinner who joined the side of a heretical race.

In truth Tempris cared not fore such minor things such as race or origin. In truth everyone was born equally a sinner and their actions only add to that suffering. This was only a over reaction due to that sinner Guther and what he did to her. Just hearing the name would have made her shiver. Lucky for her, she would never have to hear it less she brought it up.

After the vampire looking woman spoke, the dog creature introduce themselves. "Saturn," Tempris repeated out loud. Her voice was not quiet, instead filled with a jovial excitement. "A name I will not forget. heh heh." She did not bother to look up, not noticing how much her anticipation was affecting her. It was hard to battle rage, irritation, and the sheer rush of a potential rival. A deep breath later, calmed the teenager enough to return to prayer.

The next name to come up from this meeting was the "Great Sinner Kazz of the Great Sinful Saito Clan of Joya." There it was, the first ego in the room. She had no clue who this guy was nor of this so called powerful clan. Maybe he would be willing to demonstrate his power? Though that would probably count as one of this disruptions her Cousin would get upset over. Perhaps another time when they had more privacy.

After this, Kon basically ordered everyone to sit down so he could discuss the goal of the guild. Tempris was also told to sheath her weapon. With a sigh, the girl stood up and pulled out her wardrobe key and alter her outfit to that of a more armored dress with a latch to hook her sword. From there she put her sword on her back and then walked to an empty seat next to Ika. At first she was gonna find a spot alone but she was not in the mood to fight with Kon. Though something did brighten her mood.

One of the other smaller members was called a child which made them a bit angry. Tempris covered her mouth and began giggling. It was great being on the other side of that interaction and seeing someone else being called a child. Though the person would correct them and at that point a new name would be added to her list. "Primula." Though another thing would come up with this person. They mention not being able to taste food due to some taste receptor and upgrade. These were things Tempris never head of before. Was it sinful? Was it a special magic thing?

With this on her mind, she had a hard time really listen to Kon. They were gonna do something in Derserto but they had to pass through Minstrel and... her eyes went wide as if someone just dropped glass in front of her. She rotated her head to Kon to see his robo face looking at her. She could feel her own magic bubbling inside of her but she got the feeling that the man knew what he did wrong. So she took a deep breath and sigh. "I pray that we won't be restricted in this... adventure? It would be a blessing after all these... boat rides."

WC: 812
TC: 1,995/1600

Amidst all the chaos, it was difficult for the metal man to take stock of all that the future events were to entitle, the diverse assembly of individuals that had somehow made their way into the guild was an unusual sight to be sure with him scarcely believing that many before him would joining a guild with him at the helm. Those were thoughts of a man still seeking redemption, he was beyond that at this point and instead had begun to recognize that there wasn't a way to correct the things he had done in the past instead move on in a way that would be the most positive he could do both from his own moral perspective but also for those around him. As a result, Kon reaffirmed his position within the group, slamming down his hand onto the table, announcing the slight movement of the guild towards the vehicle that would transport them across the seas. "Onward to Desierto!" Kon commanded as he left the crew behind with his cape trailing after him as he made his way to the exit onto a brighter future.

[Exit]

Ikanbi of Desierto leaned her head against her hand, which was propped up as her leg crossed over her knee and she listened for a while, patiently taking it all in and wondering whether specifically there was anything she should bring with them on this venture. Perhaps she should leave Nico behind? She wasn't really sure she needed to get the little feller into such troubles. But some dungeon diving, tomb troving, treasure crawling, cyptical calling, booty balling, now that was something she could certainly get behind. She put on her sunglasses and adjusted her posture, fidgeting a little bit in her seat as she listened to everyone and everything and could almost jump from her seat with excitement.

Finally, something fun and cool to do she thought to herself after some time. It was great then to finally be able to do something lovely with some wonderfull people in a wonderful sort of way. She had no idea what she was in for, really. She hadn't properly been on any journeys with any guilds as of late, but, with any luck, they would soon be under way and she would be back to her old life of searching for precious riches in ruins and flipping them for a profit. Desierto was fine for it, as it had turned out, so she was getting back to her roots. It would be good to check in with her family while she was back home too, she couldn't wait to see them, she couldn't wait to see her friends either. It had been so long, really, since she had been back home. She had found so much comfort in Kuva and Sia that she had just never made it back around to doing things properly to get herself back to Desierto. 

That was to change though it would seem as Ikanbi finally rose from her seat before she added a bit to Kon's summary.

"I will be in my quarters preparing antidotes and remdedies for the local dangerous critters, reptiles, spiders and whatnot for once we get to Desierto. If you need any equipment tuned up, get it to me before we leave and ill work on it while we're en route."

Ikanbi left too then, and did just as she said. She immediately began working on concoctions and mixtures and cloning plants and getting herself ahead for the types of stupid things that would for certain accidentally snatch someone the wrong way while they were in places they had no real business being. 


2212

Kazz watched as the two senior guild members made their exit. "So you think this is legit? It seems like it is pretty unlikely they will need the help of a noobie like us right? Maybe we should sit this one out? A cocky smile crawled across Kazz's face "You think I am going to bail just because of something that stupid?" Nensh begins to smile herself " Na, but if this ends up killing us i would have kicked myself for not asking." Kazz lazily places his hands behind his head and walks off in the same direction ask Kon.  "Alright metal man Im game for this mission all i ask is if you get me killed lets try and make it a cool death i would never beable to face my kin in the Afterlife if i died lame" Kazz says Jokingly as he follows after his Guild Master.

[2623]

Tempris was quiet as people started to talk. Kon said it was time to go, which made her question why she had to come to the table. They did not do anything but only a sigh would signal her disappointment. More blessings would be needed for all of this insanity. Though a new opportunity might have just opened up. Ikanbi retreated to their quarters to work on their studies for animal and bug-like hazards which Tempris only saw as pointless. Fate was on their side with her there. Anything sinful attempts to hinder her mission would be quickly rectified by her holy flames. She would remain quiet though for Kazz was the one who truly had her attention now.

The mention of death, be it from jokes or insecurities, made the girl giggle. “I would not worry about such horrible fates such as death. Illumin has blessed this group…” the girl turned to the man who gave her an indescribable anger, “Well most of us… would be a more appropriate statement.” The girl took a deep breath and re-equip her smile, “Though if you still have such reserved feelings, I can always offer you a sample of the power He has bestowed upon us. A brief taste of his holy will which has sealed away any ill-will fate that would be, had I not been here.”

With that said the girl would briskly walk her way ahead of the two and find the room for herself. She was still tired and really wanted her own beauty sleep.

[exit]