While your conversation with Shadow may have shed light on a few things... it's obvious he doesn't think you all are up to the task of saving the universe from Eggman. Which also means that now you're dealing with his test, starting immediately. Some of you may be whisked away with no time to even blink, while others may find themselves wandering the Void aimlessly. Regardless, it seems this week won't be a particularly easy one.
THE VOID
Nothing has changed in the Void. Nothing ever changes in the Void. It's impossible to track the passage of time in here, and your only escape are the rings... though you should be careful with them, as there's far fewer this week. You're free to travel between worlds as you see fit - Shadow won't stop you - but you can be snatched up from wherever you are at any given moment and pulled back into the Void. Maybe don't plan on spending to long anywhere else, because it won't end well for you if you do.
The hexagonal shards will still show you visions of other worlds... but this time they all show the same thing. You'll see worlds - maybe even your own - taken over by robots and Eggman's chroma, reduced to smoldering ashes or being rebuilt in Eggman's image. Your friends, allies, and enemies may even be going about their lives just as listlessly and dutifully, heedless of their surroundings. You may even see alternate versions of yourself among them. Regardless, it seems all these shards have to show you this week are all the possibilities of failure - that other versions of shardbearers in other timelines have already lost.
MINDSCAPES
Shadow's usage of the Phantom Ruby and his own fake Chaos Emerald shard have caused quite the problem for you all - namely, you'll find yourselves traversing each other's innermost thoughts and dreams. Exactly how this mindscape manifests depends on the individual, but one thing will always remain true: you won't be able to find the owner of the mindscape easily.
As a reflection of these inner thoughts, mindscapes can be any sort of place. Perhaps they are a reflection of the owner's inner demons and fear, or perhaps they showcase a bright future they want to work towards. Regardless, this is a dream and one the owner must be awoken from... which means finding them and bringing them back to reality. That's easier said than done when traversing through this dream-like state, where the rules are made up by the owner and you're a foreign being that the dream recognizes as a threat (even if you aren't).
You may encounter familiar places or people within these mindscapes. You may not. You may end up fighting for your life in here... or you may not. Each one is individual, and the experience can vary wildly from person to person. No matter what you face, you must find the owner of the mindscape and bring them back. You must ensure you're strong enough to support them... and protect yourself.
Curiously, you can activate your shared shard power with the owner of the mindscape at any time - or bolster your own power if you share shard colors - even without them being present. Will this make it easier or harder to help bring them back? It depends on the person, your bond, and the mindscape itself...
Waking them up is as simple as convincing them that they're dreaming - that this isn't real and that they still have things to return to - but that may be easier said than done depending on the person... or the mindscape itself. There's no telling what you'll encounter, after all.
SHARDS
You'll find you're capable of more now than you were before. You're really adapting to using your shard powers and fighting with others. Those of you who share shard colors will feel the strength of your shards increasing even more when working together.
As you fight with your allies - particularly those you have a close bond with, positive or negative - you may feel the tug of something in the back of your head; it tells you that you can do more. Together, you can become more powerful. You can use your shards together. Doing so will grant you a new power, or strengthen the one you already have. The more you trust one another, the easier this power will be to use.
It might be good to experiment with these new powers; after all, you never know when you may need them.
TAILS' TASKS
Given that your allies are being pulled into mindscapes and are unable to break free of their own, your task this week is to help your friends. Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles are off dealing with their own mindscapes, but whenever they are around, they're adamant about the importance of making sure everyone is freed and prepared for whatever comes next.
ENEMIES
Like last week, you will not encounter any of Eggman's robots. The Void is still free of enemies, though other worlds may possess their own threats. Mindscapes are a bit of a different beast; each one varies, and you may or may not encounter threats of any sort in them. Best be on your guard.
[ ...Teamwork seems to be more than just something that is an agreeable aspect to Vakama - rather, it is a concept integral to his identity based upon the experiences he has had before. It isn't the first time they have heard the word "UNITY" in here, after all.
Right, well, instead of lingering on this in their head before she thinks they're spacing off again... ]
...Is that so? I suppose it does make sense that one fits like a piece into a grand puzzle when it comes to such matters.
[ Beat. And they look to see which circle it was that had begun aching, actually...? ]
And I do understand the value of teaming up with likeminded individuals to solve a similar problem. Though, I do wonder what kind of problem there is in this case...? Such as what kind of danger will I be striking down, exactly? You may as well tell me~
[If they look at their palm, they will notice it is the other small circle that is aching.
Anyway, the figure just. Blinks.]
To be united does not need to be with those who are likeminded! Far from it. You may only traverse so far if the common ground you find is steps you already know too well.
[As the boat moves, Void Archive will see a familiar cracking starting to follow along the side of the boat, slowly growing.]
There is a creature, fierce and strange, in the waters around the village. It's going to take teamwork to figure out how to stop it.
Tsk, I already knew that as well. I just felt no reason to say such things.
[ They say, kind of like, a little snootily, because of course they do. They were being far too diplomatic for so long.
Though, they frown at the sign of that cracking, and begin to take out their gun. ]
Yes, yes, teamwork.
Yet, it is only I that has arrived to assist. [ Or so they presume. They say this with great pride like 'I am the chosen one', kind of nonsense. They are absolutely not. ] If you are the other one ready to provide yourself as a number to this team, I suppose I shall be grateful.
Speaking of which, do tell me if it has any weakpoints, hm?
[ They suppose that, well, they should ask for that sort of thing, just in case. Look, they do have a high level of INT, and so they are using it. ]
1/2 you know it's time for a slight scene switch when i gotta go find more music
[The canoe starts to drift. There is a village, off in the distance, tucked away in the bay. But it seems you are not being led there.
The motor comes to a stop, even as the glass-like cracks along the current start to widen. The familiar void of white starts to peer out from beneath.]
I will do my part for the whole.
[It just seems that that part was not to find help. It was to bait.
The figure starts to morph - taller, still shadowed, with hints of blue armor. With remarkable speed, it backflips off the canoe and straight into the ocean, sending a burst of water into the air before it breaks the waves.
There is a rising storm building. Something you cannot face alone.
In amidst the cracks off the side of the boat, you see shimmers of your own experience. Not of teamwork at its best, but at its worst. Those one meshed with by obligation, by inconvenience, by necessity - perhaps those one loathed. Forced to work side by side, even if by the skin of one's teeth, even if in agony. You see their forms, reluctant, but beyond the veil.
Could you ever convince yourself it was easy? Could you slip on the role of a teammate like a glove, or was it more a mask? What has it taken, for you to come together? What has it taken, for you to ask for help?
Could you ever truly set aside yourself, your wants, your dreams, for the whole? Was it not easier, to just stand on one's own?]
Void Archives seems to lack expectation that matters go as planned, so they seem hardly surprised at the apparent direction of this. To the point that there is no expression of shock apparent on their face. They don't even feel surprised at being betrayed. Rather, a scoff leaves them at hearing her say this. ]
Really, please don't be surprised if when I get my hands on you I ensure you're torn into pitiful pieces. 'For the whole'...what stupidity.
[ The sudden flickers of their 'experience', though? They know by now that the signal of cracking means something unpleasant means to strike at their mental defenses, but unfortunately they are not clairvoyant. It's easy for the 'worst' teamwork to float to the surface - their centuries long 'collaboration' with Otto. Their 'team-up' with the Sky People. The initial beginning of when they tried to wrangle Welt into some form of cooperation and performed some ... extremely underhanded methods to make it happen. It succeeded, granted, but well...
Then, there was how they felt about everyone in the first group battle here. Where, honestly, they didn't care and didn't want to so much as listen to anyone telling them anything even when they were making a mistake. Where they felt that was merely obligation itself.
Slipping on the role of a teammate for them is never easy. They feel that this is always true. They weren't made to be a team player. But, they could do both with apparent ease; wear a mask in a literal and metaphorical sense.
Yet, their thoughts turn towards the other questions...
And, usually in regards to 'help', the answer would be they never felt like asking for help. But recently, they had been in that fight where they were attacked by their double, and did...ask for assistance, so it took exactly that. What has it taken, for them to come together to work as a better team mate, though? Simply others reaching out to them.
Their bonds, for better or worse.
...Also, that's asking a lot from Void Archives. They're still one hell of a selfish individual. They are still inclined to listen inherently to their programming to preserve humanity, but whatever they do, it's for their sake, not out of the goodness for everyone else.
Though, they are eager to work together with better, willing companions to make things happen. So, isn't that progress? ]
[Their experiences coalesce into one figure on the other side of the veil. A single figure from their life in which this mask of theirs, literal or otherwise, was difficult to keep up.
They recognize that form well enough; they couldn't forget, no matter how much time has passed.
And really...truthfully?
Not much time has passed at all, if any, since they glimpsed it.
They look at that bare hand and reach out to grab a hold of it; staring down the appearance, which may be a reflection of some sort...but not. Not really. ]
All enemies who interfere will be eliminated. So, shall we? Team up again once more...
[ They grin, sharper than before.
But, Void Archives reaches out to grab a hold of that hand, without hesitation. ]
[Your hand breaks the surface as the circle against your palm starts to ache deeper. The surroundings distort slightly as they step out onto the rocking floor of the boat.
The waves start to drag the boat, as if by command. There is something in the waters below you. At the same time, you can sense the presence of another - a second shadowed figure in tints of green, with the vague elongated shape of an axe against its shoulder. It locks eyes with Void Archive, before the air pressure starts to shift, the figure's mask glowing as it starts to rise into the air, adrift on the currents.
2 enemies remain.
Void Archive will find the following:
1) Their new partner will have the same personality, for better or worse, as their regular life counterpart. They will have a Diamond shard, and they will have the ability to create ice. 2) Void Archive will be able to use a new shard power with their new partner - this will be the same shard power that has been approved for Vakama, with the same limitations.]
[ Well, thank goodness that they break the surface and are able to stabilize themselves on the boat alongside this 'counterpart'?? Which is a strange image in that it seems to be an odd figure in white all over but with that long hair alongside holding himself with a confident air. Robes with an apparent, undeniable certain kind of symbol hanging from this 'partner's' neck that glows a light radiance of various blues.
It seems that there has been no official attack just yet other than the rock of waves, and the raise of the figure onto the currents. ]
Let's get this over with.
[ Void Archives immediately strikes out, unleashing a blast of light straight on over at the enemy in green.
They expect their partner to follow suit - and in keeping in line with that general personality, will seem inclined to do that. So, light and ice deluge attack on the axe green dude let's go!! ]
[Their partner's volley of ice is dodged (9) but Void Archive's blow lands (13). The figure curses as its mask's glow temporarily fades, its course through the air faltering, skidding the water below it only a few feet from where Void Archive stands. The air pressure morphs again at the movement of its blade underneath it, course correcting itself with a cocky little laugh.]
Lucky prankshot -- [Unlike the one who had been on the boat, the figure in green sounds male once again - lighter, younger, casual.] Come on, sister, let's not end this in deepswim and darkness!!
[The blue glow of the mask far under the waves is difficult to track, but it's definitely within range of them. The waters churn below them, their feet unsteady even as the green figure in the air raises their axe with the telltale howling of an increasing gale. Joint power, not unlike the shardbond, summoning a storm.
Roll 1d20 to keep your footing, because your partner looks about ready to fall overboard themselves.]
[ Wow, this fellow has sure got a mouth on him, doesn't he! Void Archives merely raises a brow. What kind of haughty declaration is this... ]
Deepswim and darkness?
Perhaps you should fear the onslaught of a holy light that shall deliver you from this plane of existence, and straight into the hands of the realm above.
[ There is a beat where his "companion" looks at Void Archives in a way that seems to indicate that what they are saying is extremely out of pocket. But, look, they are just playing a role here and think it's absolutely hilarious to say something ridiculous. Come on, it's boring sticking to the usual expected shit.
Speaking of unexpected things, though, the sudden potential arrival of a storm causes the unfortunate shaking of footing... but, Void Archives is too into the script to even be bothered and keeps it just fine (18) ]
Let's give them a little taste of something else far less pleasant, shall we?
Together now!
[ And now, time for an enactment of the combination ability. Say hi to the Trojan Horse Cube that's being flung out and the incoming light implosions with the projectiles - it's a wide area of effect so hopefully it can catch wherever that nuisance so happens to be under the waves as well! ]
[The golden cube flings out into the surf, resting in place with only rings of light keeping it afloat for several seconds.
While the figure in the air easily gets out of the way, the inward pull of its implosion causes a pocket of the sea to collapse, only for the force to shoot outward with the projectiles of light. The shadowed figure of blue can be seen and briefly heard in amidst the crash of water, a female voice yelling in alarm as it is tossed about, the glow of its mask fading, before all the projectiles hunt the figure down in rapid succession right as the sea violently closes itself back up to the gap.
Their enemy in the air calls out - a name that is nothing but static, a name that is many names at once. A brief crack, before its attention is back on the boat, swirling closer as the rain and wind start to pick up.]
Proudtalk to call strangers a danger of the heavens, huh? Like Great Beings that longrest beyond highcloud and sparkling stars?
Hahah! It's silliness!
Toa-heros know no fear if they are together! Air has no truelove for the deep and the wet, but maybe fallen starfighters may find it a better home!
[And with considerable force, the figure drops itself at the very end of the boat. Given it is standing at a good 7 foot 2 inches, the force of its landing immediately rocks the canoe nearly 45 degrees.
Roll 1d20 to keep yourself from being swept into the ocean.]
[ Weird, that sure is something odd - they wonder why it is static rather than anything truly audible. Maybe it isn't something to pay attention to, but Void Archives happens to have done so anyway; and then there's that crack or something?
Too bad they didn't exactly eliminate that one completely. It would have been fantastic. ]
...You sound completely and utterly ridiculous.
[ As if Void Archives can talk, but boy these guy is sure taking the cake from where they're standing. They even let out a derisive scoff. ]
You call yourselves heroes? Perhaps you would fancy yourselves as such, and yet have not so much as shown a bit of a "heroic" quality in the slightest.
To myself you are simply masquerading around as one, as if in a play, and finding themselves fancying the role far too much. Indeed, perhaps it is I who should be declaring myself something to counter your weak heroic nature - I wouldn't suggest that I am the 'hero' of the role. But rather something far more powerful:
[It's a garbled taunt from the one above as Void Archive drops into the water. The crashing of the waves under the growing storm knocks them to and fro. To their side, they can spot their partner also crashing down in a trail of bubbles, flailing to right themselves.
The green figure lands atop the upturned boat, obscured by the crashing water.
They will have only a few moments to gain their bearings before the blue shadowed figure can be spotted, just as fast in the water as the other had been in the air. Sharp hook-like objects seem to protrude where its hands should be.]
Shall we test your resolve, O Great Judge of Heroes?
[A hook is raised. The crashing water will press around them like a vice, even as the blue figure darts by like a fish and attempts to hook at Void Archive's waist with their weapon. If Void Archive fails their roll, they will remain underwater and will not be able to surface for a turn.
From the boat, the green figure swings its blade down towards your partner, blades of air slicing through the water to try and knock them further and further down.
You may roll dodges for both Void Archive and their partner, and may attack with both so long as they do not roll a 1.]
[ They are tempted to do something obscenely childish but fortunately because they're underwater I don't have to agonize over them doing it or not.
Anyway, this is hilariously embarrassing but you know what, it's fine. They've been through worse, which is actually true.
They're not human and they don't have to breathe so they don't have to worry about being drowned. But, anyway, they fail in avoiding the hook (7) and are stuck underwater. They look pretty pissy at the gal underwater, though.
But they then lash out underwater, sending light at their opponent - an ability that is unaffected by the water's waves.
As for their partner, they end up getting sliced too (8) but blow a sudden rain of icicles back at the green figure. ]
[At such a close distance, it's easy to tell two things:
1) The blue figure is definitely damaged, the marks from the light projectiles having left behind several ugly marks in its metal and a miniscule stream of blackened debris from one of its arms. 2) The figure's mask glow seems to be constant, ebbing with the sounds of respiration under the waves.
At the boat, ice blasts through the wooden beams of the bottom of the boat with a garbled cry of pain from above. (9) The green figure sways, and the boat rocks unsteadily, before it takes back to the air for the time being. It will be much harder to spot unless they get closer to the surface, but it doesn't stop them from trying to attack again with a blade of air towards Void Archive's partner. Hopefully they don't need to emerge for air anytime soon!
Though the blue figure attempts to whip Void Archive into deeper water first, Void Archive's attack hits quicker (8), the sound of crunching metal muted in their ears. Grunting in pain, it dislodges Void Archive like a hook shot of surprising strength, a whirlpool pushed in Void Archive's direction to try and trap them a good distance from the boat.
They are clearly not aiming to kill them outright. So what are they doing?]
[ Maybe it is fortune rather than misfortune that has allowed them to make such observations. Pretty interesting, though.
Because Void Archives' partner can dodge more than Void Archives, he's fine (19). But that isn't the only thing he does - he manages to rise out of the water, forms an icicle chain and tries to use it to grab a hold of the green one from above with a swing from down below.
As for Void Archives, they...get caught up in the damn attack (10), but they try to use light instead to blast it behind themselves so they can slam back into the blue figure - bodily.
Man, this is really going sucky for them in particular, but they are trying. And honestly, they have no idea what the two are aiming for here, but Void Archives is trying to figure it out...kind of. ]
[Their partner just barely manages to grab the green figure by the ankle (10). It's not enough to get it out of the air completely yet, but they definitely have leverage until the chain breaks!]
Wh -- No coldleashing! Get off!
[The green figure will attempt to break the chain, but its first attempt is unsuccessful. (2) It will roll disadvantage on your next attack.
Over with Void Archive, the blue figure has completely turned away from them, which might explain why they are completely caught off guard when Void Archive shoots through the water. The body slam hits hard (1), and the jolt alone seems to dislodge the mask on its face.
Instantly the glow from the mask stops, and air starts to bubble from its mouth with the tell tale signs of someone drowning.
It fumbles to reattach its mask first and foremost, even while trying to shove its legs up between itself and Void Archive and kick off their stomach to gain some distance.]
[ The partner's expression looks satisfied - which is, well, unsurprising given that the chain seems to have managed to grab a hold of the green figure. Then, there is a rough tug on it, aiming to try to bring the green figure down onto the boat, as well as leap back onto it.
Also, the words "No," might have been mouthed at some point in all of this. Seems like Void Archives might not be the only one who is inclined towards...taunting...
But, speaking of which!
...Oh, that is certainly someone drowning.
For the love of all that is holy, Void Archives can't dodge worth a damn (7), but the blond does try to grab a hold of one of those legs after being kicked at?? There is a process here, but it is just yakkety saxing through this, apparently... ]
Ow!!! I'm -- ghk -- I'm not your petthing, icebreath! Off, off!!
[Though the green figure attempts to resist the pull (16, 9), it does not work. Void Archive's partner will be able to climb onto the overturned boat, even as their tugging whips their prisoner into melee range. It is taking full advantage of that by immediately deactivating its mask once more to try and repeat the exact same trick it did before in catapulting its captor back into the water. Roll a d20 to prevent from going back into the ocean (again).
Void Archive's hands reach out to grab the blue shadow as it retreats, but it evades their grasp this time (15). Its focus seems to be torn away from Void Archive entirely at the sounds of the commotion above, trying to break the distance as quickly as it can with its injuries and prepare a counter to support its teammate above. Void Archive will not have to dodge and can act freely..]
[ Oh, that certainly is something, isn't it? Hearing the words, the partner seems to even raise a brow, smile growing wider in something like amusement. Then the words mouthed, "Give up. Submit to defeat."
But, pulling such a trick - well, to that, the green figure may find that they will succeed in catapulting this nuisance (7), but...
The partner doesn't let go. He strengthens the ice chain, and uses the momentum he has been thrown with to tug back as hard as he can so that he can try to drag the green figure underwater with him. How rude.
As for Void Archives, they are going to summon a large spot of light in front of the blue shadow and use it to explode into a flash of incredibly blinding brightness in an attempt to stun/disorient her to distract her from helping her teammate above. ]
Thorntongue and no truth. You don't give up on your tea--
[That's about all that makes it out of its mouth before it trails off into a yelp that drowns out into bubbles as Void Archive's partner pulls it right underneath the water. (9)
It is immediately obvious that the green fighter is not a strong swimmer, nor can it breathe underwater like its blue counterpart, given the air bubbles that leak from its tightly-shut mouth. It will spend its turn trying to free itself from the ice chain, which it will finally shatter (19) before clumsily trying to right itself in the direction heading away from Void Archive.
Void Archive's attack on the other is successful (2), the blue shadow halting in place from trying to get to its partner at the afterimages that suddenly blur its vision. It will send out another whirlpool blindly in the direction it remembers Void Archive to be - Void Archive may roll for advantage to dodge.
Given the tactics they are showing, Void Archive can start to guess they are deliberately trying to keep them and their icy partner separate.]
[ Void Archives' partner grins, definitely entertained with what has resulted. Unfortunately for the green opponent, this one also knows how to swim...and is a powerful one at that - and ironically, attempts the same method Void Archives did. That is, an attempt to grab one of the fighters' legs, to try to pull it into an underwater grab or grapple.
Void Archives of course dodges the whirlpool this time (13), which is a vast improvement over their performance so far. Then, they aim a blast of light at the blue shadow. ]
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no subject
Right, well, instead of lingering on this in their head before she thinks they're spacing off again... ]
...Is that so? I suppose it does make sense that one fits like a piece into a grand puzzle when it comes to such matters.
[ Beat. And they look to see which circle it was that had begun aching, actually...? ]
And I do understand the value of teaming up with likeminded individuals to solve a similar problem. Though, I do wonder what kind of problem there is in this case...? Such as what kind of danger will I be striking down, exactly? You may as well tell me~
no subject
Anyway, the figure just. Blinks.]
To be united does not need to be with those who are likeminded! Far from it. You may only traverse so far if the common ground you find is steps you already know too well.
[As the boat moves, Void Archive will see a familiar cracking starting to follow along the side of the boat, slowly growing.]
There is a creature, fierce and strange, in the waters around the village. It's going to take teamwork to figure out how to stop it.
no subject
[ They say, kind of like, a little snootily, because of course they do. They were being far too diplomatic for so long.
Though, they frown at the sign of that cracking, and begin to take out their gun. ]
Yes, yes, teamwork.
Yet, it is only I that has arrived to assist. [ Or so they presume. They say this with great pride like 'I am the chosen one', kind of nonsense. They are absolutely not. ] If you are the other one ready to provide yourself as a number to this team, I suppose I shall be grateful.
Speaking of which, do tell me if it has any weakpoints, hm?
[ They suppose that, well, they should ask for that sort of thing, just in case. Look, they do have a high level of INT, and so they are using it. ]
1/2 you know it's time for a slight scene switch when i gotta go find more music
The motor comes to a stop, even as the glass-like cracks along the current start to widen. The familiar void of white starts to peer out from beneath.]
I will do my part for the whole.
[It just seems that that part was not to find help. It was to bait.
The figure starts to morph - taller, still shadowed, with hints of blue armor. With remarkable speed, it backflips off the canoe and straight into the ocean, sending a burst of water into the air before it breaks the waves.
A signal to another.]
2/2 i recommend setting this track to loop
There is a rising storm building. Something you cannot face alone.
In amidst the cracks off the side of the boat, you see shimmers of your own experience. Not of teamwork at its best, but at its worst. Those one meshed with by obligation, by inconvenience, by necessity - perhaps those one loathed. Forced to work side by side, even if by the skin of one's teeth, even if in agony. You see their forms, reluctant, but beyond the veil.
Could you ever convince yourself it was easy? Could you slip on the role of a teammate like a glove, or was it more a mask? What has it taken, for you to come together? What has it taken, for you to ask for help?
Could you ever truly set aside yourself, your wants, your dreams, for the whole? Was it not easier, to just stand on one's own?]
no subject
Void Archives seems to lack expectation that matters go as planned, so they seem hardly surprised at the apparent direction of this. To the point that there is no expression of shock apparent on their face. They don't even feel surprised at being betrayed. Rather, a scoff leaves them at hearing her say this. ]
Really, please don't be surprised if when I get my hands on you I ensure you're torn into pitiful pieces. 'For the whole'...what stupidity.
[ The sudden flickers of their 'experience', though? They know by now that the signal of cracking means something unpleasant means to strike at their mental defenses, but unfortunately they are not clairvoyant. It's easy for the 'worst' teamwork to float to the surface - their centuries long 'collaboration' with Otto. Their 'team-up' with the Sky People. The initial beginning of when they tried to wrangle Welt into some form of cooperation and performed some ... extremely underhanded methods to make it happen. It succeeded, granted, but well...
Then, there was how they felt about everyone in the first group battle here. Where, honestly, they didn't care and didn't want to so much as listen to anyone telling them anything even when they were making a mistake. Where they felt that was merely obligation itself.
Slipping on the role of a teammate for them is never easy. They feel that this is always true. They weren't made to be a team player. But, they could do both with apparent ease; wear a mask in a literal and metaphorical sense.
Yet, their thoughts turn towards the other questions...
And, usually in regards to 'help', the answer would be they never felt like asking for help. But recently, they had been in that fight where they were attacked by their double, and did...ask for assistance, so it took exactly that. What has it taken, for them to come together to work as a better team mate, though? Simply others reaching out to them.
Their bonds, for better or worse.
...Also, that's asking a lot from Void Archives. They're still one hell of a selfish individual. They are still inclined to listen inherently to their programming to preserve humanity, but whatever they do, it's for their sake, not out of the goodness for everyone else.
Though, they are eager to work together with better, willing companions to make things happen. So, isn't that progress? ]
no subject
No matter who it is, that figure extends a hand.
A willing companion, for just this once.
Would they still bother to take it?
To embrace U N I T Y?]
no subject
They recognize that form well enough; they couldn't forget, no matter how much time has passed.
And really...truthfully?
Not much time has passed at all, if any, since they glimpsed it.
They look at that bare hand and reach out to grab a hold of it; staring down the appearance, which may be a reflection of some sort...but not. Not really. ]
All enemies who interfere will be eliminated. So, shall we? Team up again once more...
[ They grin, sharper than before.
But, Void Archives reaches out to grab a hold of that hand, without hesitation. ]
same as before, roll only to dodge!
The waves start to drag the boat, as if by command. There is something in the waters below you. At the same time, you can sense the presence of another - a second shadowed figure in tints of green, with the vague elongated shape of an axe against its shoulder. It locks eyes with Void Archive, before the air pressure starts to shift, the figure's mask glowing as it starts to rise into the air, adrift on the currents.
2 enemies remain.
Void Archive will find the following:
1) Their new partner will have the same personality, for better or worse, as their regular life counterpart. They will have a Diamond shard, and they will have the ability to create ice.
2) Void Archive will be able to use a new shard power with their new partner - this will be the same shard power that has been approved for Vakama, with the same limitations.]
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It seems that there has been no official attack just yet other than the rock of waves, and the raise of the figure onto the currents. ]
Let's get this over with.
[ Void Archives immediately strikes out, unleashing a blast of light straight on over at the enemy in green.
They expect their partner to follow suit - and in keeping in line with that general personality, will seem inclined to do that. So, light and ice deluge attack on the axe green dude let's go!! ]
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Lucky prankshot -- [Unlike the one who had been on the boat, the figure in green sounds male once again - lighter, younger, casual.] Come on, sister, let's not end this in deepswim and darkness!!
[The blue glow of the mask far under the waves is difficult to track, but it's definitely within range of them. The waters churn below them, their feet unsteady even as the green figure in the air raises their axe with the telltale howling of an increasing gale. Joint power, not unlike the shardbond, summoning a storm.
Roll 1d20 to keep your footing, because your partner looks about ready to fall overboard themselves.]
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Deepswim and darkness?
Perhaps you should fear the onslaught of a holy light that shall deliver you from this plane of existence, and straight into the hands of the realm above.
[ There is a beat where his "companion" looks at Void Archives in a way that seems to indicate that what they are saying is extremely out of pocket. But, look, they are just playing a role here and think it's absolutely hilarious to say something ridiculous. Come on, it's boring sticking to the usual expected shit.
Speaking of unexpected things, though, the sudden potential arrival of a storm causes the unfortunate shaking of footing... but, Void Archives is too into the script to even be bothered and keeps it just fine (18) ]
Let's give them a little taste of something else far less pleasant, shall we?
Together now!
[ And now, time for an enactment of the combination ability. Say hi to the Trojan Horse Cube that's being flung out and the incoming light implosions with the projectiles - it's a wide area of effect so hopefully it can catch wherever that nuisance so happens to be under the waves as well! ]
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While the figure in the air easily gets out of the way, the inward pull of its implosion causes a pocket of the sea to collapse, only for the force to shoot outward with the projectiles of light. The shadowed figure of blue can be seen and briefly heard in amidst the crash of water, a female voice yelling in alarm as it is tossed about, the glow of its mask fading, before all the projectiles hunt the figure down in rapid succession right as the sea violently closes itself back up to the gap.
Their enemy in the air calls out - a name that is nothing but static, a name that is many names at once. A brief crack, before its attention is back on the boat, swirling closer as the rain and wind start to pick up.]
Proudtalk to call strangers a danger of the heavens, huh? Like Great Beings that longrest beyond highcloud and sparkling stars?
Hahah! It's silliness!
Toa-heros know no fear if they are together! Air has no truelove for the deep and the wet, but maybe fallen starfighters may find it a better home!
[And with considerable force, the figure drops itself at the very end of the boat. Given it is standing at a good 7 foot 2 inches, the force of its landing immediately rocks the canoe nearly 45 degrees.
Roll 1d20 to keep yourself from being swept into the ocean.]
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Too bad they didn't exactly eliminate that one completely. It would have been fantastic. ]
...You sound completely and utterly ridiculous.
[ As if Void Archives can talk, but boy these guy is sure taking the cake from where they're standing. They even let out a derisive scoff. ]
You call yourselves heroes? Perhaps you would fancy yourselves as such, and yet have not so much as shown a bit of a "heroic" quality in the slightest.
To myself you are simply masquerading around as one, as if in a play, and finding themselves fancying the role far too much. Indeed, perhaps it is I who should be declaring myself something to counter your weak heroic nature - I wouldn't suggest that I am the 'hero' of the role. But rather something far more powerful:
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[ Void Archives is swept into the ocean (7) ]
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[It's a garbled taunt from the one above as Void Archive drops into the water. The crashing of the waves under the growing storm knocks them to and fro. To their side, they can spot their partner also crashing down in a trail of bubbles, flailing to right themselves.
The green figure lands atop the upturned boat, obscured by the crashing water.
They will have only a few moments to gain their bearings before the blue shadowed figure can be spotted, just as fast in the water as the other had been in the air. Sharp hook-like objects seem to protrude where its hands should be.]
Shall we test your resolve, O Great Judge of Heroes?
[A hook is raised. The crashing water will press around them like a vice, even as the blue figure darts by like a fish and attempts to hook at Void Archive's waist with their weapon. If Void Archive fails their roll, they will remain underwater and will not be able to surface for a turn.
From the boat, the green figure swings its blade down towards your partner, blades of air slicing through the water to try and knock them further and further down.
You may roll dodges for both Void Archive and their partner, and may attack with both so long as they do not roll a 1.]
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Anyway, this is hilariously embarrassing but you know what, it's fine. They've been through worse, which is actually true.
They're not human and they don't have to breathe so they don't have to worry about being drowned. But, anyway, they fail in avoiding the hook (7) and are stuck underwater. They look pretty pissy at the gal underwater, though.
But they then lash out underwater, sending light at their opponent - an ability that is unaffected by the water's waves.
As for their partner, they end up getting sliced too (8) but blow a sudden rain of icicles back at the green figure. ]
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1) The blue figure is definitely damaged, the marks from the light projectiles having left behind several ugly marks in its metal and a miniscule stream of blackened debris from one of its arms.
2) The figure's mask glow seems to be constant, ebbing with the sounds of respiration under the waves.
At the boat, ice blasts through the wooden beams of the bottom of the boat with a garbled cry of pain from above. (9) The green figure sways, and the boat rocks unsteadily, before it takes back to the air for the time being. It will be much harder to spot unless they get closer to the surface, but it doesn't stop them from trying to attack again with a blade of air towards Void Archive's partner. Hopefully they don't need to emerge for air anytime soon!
Though the blue figure attempts to whip Void Archive into deeper water first, Void Archive's attack hits quicker (8), the sound of crunching metal muted in their ears. Grunting in pain, it dislodges Void Archive like a hook shot of surprising strength, a whirlpool pushed in Void Archive's direction to try and trap them a good distance from the boat.
They are clearly not aiming to kill them outright. So what are they doing?]
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Because Void Archives' partner can dodge more than Void Archives, he's fine (19). But that isn't the only thing he does - he manages to rise out of the water, forms an icicle chain and tries to use it to grab a hold of the green one from above with a swing from down below.
As for Void Archives, they...get caught up in the damn attack (10), but they try to use light instead to blast it behind themselves so they can slam back into the blue figure - bodily.
Man, this is really going sucky for them in particular, but they are trying. And honestly, they have no idea what the two are aiming for here, but Void Archives is trying to figure it out...kind of. ]
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Wh -- No coldleashing! Get off!
[The green figure will attempt to break the chain, but its first attempt is unsuccessful. (2) It will roll disadvantage on your next attack.
Over with Void Archive, the blue figure has completely turned away from them, which might explain why they are completely caught off guard when Void Archive shoots through the water. The body slam hits hard (1), and the jolt alone seems to dislodge the mask on its face.
Instantly the glow from the mask stops, and air starts to bubble from its mouth with the tell tale signs of someone drowning.
It fumbles to reattach its mask first and foremost, even while trying to shove its legs up between itself and Void Archive and kick off their stomach to gain some distance.]
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Also, the words "No," might have been mouthed at some point in all of this. Seems like Void Archives might not be the only one who is inclined towards...taunting...
But, speaking of which!
...Oh, that is certainly someone drowning.
For the love of all that is holy, Void Archives can't dodge worth a damn (7), but the blond does try to grab a hold of one of those legs after being kicked at?? There is a process here, but it is just yakkety saxing through this, apparently... ]
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[Though the green figure attempts to resist the pull (16, 9), it does not work. Void Archive's partner will be able to climb onto the overturned boat, even as their tugging whips their prisoner into melee range. It is taking full advantage of that by immediately deactivating its mask once more to try and repeat the exact same trick it did before in catapulting its captor back into the water. Roll a d20 to prevent from going back into the ocean (again).
Void Archive's hands reach out to grab the blue shadow as it retreats, but it evades their grasp this time (15). Its focus seems to be torn away from Void Archive entirely at the sounds of the commotion above, trying to break the distance as quickly as it can with its injuries and prepare a counter to support its teammate above. Void Archive will not have to dodge and can act freely..]
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But, pulling such a trick - well, to that, the green figure may find that they will succeed in catapulting this nuisance (7), but...
The partner doesn't let go. He strengthens the ice chain, and uses the momentum he has been thrown with to tug back as hard as he can so that he can try to drag the green figure underwater with him. How rude.
As for Void Archives, they are going to summon a large spot of light in front of the blue shadow and use it to explode into a flash of incredibly blinding brightness in an attempt to stun/disorient her to distract her from helping her teammate above. ]
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[That's about all that makes it out of its mouth before it trails off into a yelp that drowns out into bubbles as Void Archive's partner pulls it right underneath the water. (9)
It is immediately obvious that the green fighter is not a strong swimmer, nor can it breathe underwater like its blue counterpart, given the air bubbles that leak from its tightly-shut mouth. It will spend its turn trying to free itself from the ice chain, which it will finally shatter (19) before clumsily trying to right itself in the direction heading away from Void Archive.
Void Archive's attack on the other is successful (2), the blue shadow halting in place from trying to get to its partner at the afterimages that suddenly blur its vision. It will send out another whirlpool blindly in the direction it remembers Void Archive to be - Void Archive may roll for advantage to dodge.
Given the tactics they are showing, Void Archive can start to guess they are deliberately trying to keep them and their icy partner separate.]
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Void Archives of course dodges the whirlpool this time (13), which is a vast improvement over their performance so far. Then, they aim a blast of light at the blue shadow. ]
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1/2 cw: drowning
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is nik going to give you more music, absolutely, who do you think i am
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2/2 music track once more hooray
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