"Though... the Ghoul got away." his eyes glancing toward the spot where the Ghoul had been just moments ago.
"I will kill them... I'll kill every single one of them," it mutters under its breath, determination fueling its every word as it staggers through a tunnel, revealing the corrupted heart of the Ginso Tree, encased in layers of dark, ominous goop.
"If I can't take them down myself, a whole army certainly will," the Ghoul declares, its sinister laughter continuing to echo throughout the space.
Both Leru and Fil, with a newfound sense of gravity about their roles, nodded solemnly. "Alright then, let's move out," Reem declared with finality
Following a fierce skirmish, two weary spirits traverse a slender path within the Ginso Tree. Sein, still convalescing from a devastating blow dealt by the Ghoul, rides upon Ori's back. Together, they endeavor to reach the heart of the Ginso Tree, with a mission to rejuvenate the element and purify the tainted waters.
A question suddenly sprang into Ori's mind. "Say... do you by any chance know how your healing ability functions?" Ori inquired. Sein, however, remained silent, her own understanding of the process having faded, just like the ancient scrolls that had been lost to time.
"Well... I can't say I particularly understand it myself, but I do know that I possess the ability. My Light, it emits an unusual hue during the process, if that detail is of any assistance," Sein explained, her tone reflecting her uncertainty. Ori responded with a hum of understanding, absorbing the information.
"Ok then," Ori said, shifting the conversation. "Apart from that, do you know of anyone who might possess the knowledge to teach me how to harness Physical Techniques?" Ori queried. Sein pondered for a moment before responding, "Yes, actually... there's a spirit named Reem. He's been acknowledged as the mightiest Spirit in Nibel for a considerable time. Despite his past involvement in certain illicit activities, he possesses the expertise that could undoubtedly benefit you," Sein remarked thoughtfully, "that is, assuming he's still among the living."
"Oh, you have more insights about him?" Ori inquired, his curiosity piqued. Sein, delving deeper into her recollections, responded thoughtfully, "Well... his past isn't exactly unblemished. While he has performed commendable deeds, there have been misdeeds as well..." Her words captured Ori's attention, prompting him to tilt his head just enough to catch a glimpse of Sein in his peripheral vision. "Such as?" he probed further.
"Well, for starters, he pilfered scrolls laden with various techniques, including a secret scroll harboring a technique deliberately concealed for specific reasons," Sein elaborated. Ori, trying to comprehend the severity, asked, "So... would that be considered a serious crime? Or just a minor offense?" Sein contemplated before replying, "In my perspective, it's not the gravest of offenses, but it undeniably qualifies as a significant crime. He really shouldn't be at liberty, but given his invaluable contribution to the guardians of our forest, they overlooked his transgression just this once. Probably, they were also intimidated by the prospect of confronting him." As she spoke, Sein let her head rest heavily on Ori's, eliciting a muffled groan from him – the landing was less than gentle.
"...uhm, back to the topic at hand, yeah?" Ori gently probed. Sein responded with a hum, signaling her attentiveness. "Those scrolls, are they something I could learn from?" he inquired. Sein, lifting her head, replied, "Well, yes, actually... but our community library no longer exists. However, there's another place where I've hidden copies of those scrolls," she spoke, her voice fading to a whisper as she once again rested her head on Ori's.
"Copies? So, all the techniques are still preserved, right?" Ori queried. Meanwhile, he delved into an inner monologue, speculating about their possible location, suspecting Sein might withhold this information. "Yes, they're hidden in a secret place. I intended to replicate them for the new community library, once the forest has recovered its splendor," Sein admitted, her words trailing off into a deep sigh.
As Sein mumbled, Ori's thoughts raced. 'The location of the scrolls' copy won't be in the Spirit Tree – too obvious. And not on the surface either... That leaves the underground realms, inhabited by creatures of darkness. But which creature could it be? My knowledge of dark dwellers is limited,' he pondered internally, his expression turning to one of annoyance. 'Should I subtly coax the answer out of her, or just ask directly?' After a moment of deliberation, Ori decided on the latter approach.
"So... where exactly did you hide those scrolls?" Ori asked, shifting his head to catch a glimpse of Sein. "...Didn't I mention that I hid them underground?" Sein responded, slightly bemused. Realizing his lapse, Ori quickly turned his gaze back to the road, a hint of comical sweat beading on his forehead. "S-sorry, I was lost in my own thoughts while you were speaking," he stammered, trying to casually dismiss his recent bout of introspection.
"Anyway, I get the sense that you're hesitant to disclose the precise location of those scrolls to anyone," Ori observed, his statement eliciting a nervous hum from Sein. "Uuuh..." she hesitated, internally torn between revealing the secret or keeping it. Sensing her discomfort, Ori quickly added, "You don't need to share if you're not comfortable," offering her reassurance. In response, Sein buried her eyes deeper into Ori's fur, a gesture of grateful retreat.
After a prolonged silence, Sein gently tapped Ori's shoulder, signaling her wish to dismount. Ori obligingly knelt down on one knee, facilitating an easier descent for Sein. "Thank you," she expressed, to which Ori replied with a supportive thumbs up. Curious, Ori inquired, "Does healing consume a significant amount of Light Energy?" Sein nodded affirmatively. "Indeed, it drains quite a bit. I'm not an adept healer; healing internal organs is particularly challenging. Sometimes, I yearn for Seil's powers... but then I might lose my effectiveness in combat," she mused, her smile tinged with a hint of sadness.
Ori gazed intently at Sein as she drew a deep, steadying breath. "The key point is that I can heal. Now, let's concentrate on reaching the heart of the Ginso Tree," Sein declared, her voice brimming with determination. Ori gently patted her back, cautioning, "Sure, but be mindful not to overexert yourself and deplete your Light Energy." Sein, however, had a revelation to share. "Don't worry, my Light Trait is Efficient Light," she confided. Pondering for a moment, Ori asked, "So, you essentially utilize the minimal Light Energy for the maximum effect?" To this, Sein nodded in agreement.
"...huh, that's quite powerful, no?" Ori remarked, a touch of awe in his voice. Sein nodded once more. "Yes, it enables me to employ my techniques consistently without concern for depleting my Light Energy. However, there are other matters I need to be cautious about, but let's not dwell on that now," she replied, a note of evasion in her tone. Ori sensed the gravity in her words but chose to set aside his concern for the moment, as they both stepped through another portal.
Emerging from the portal, the spirits found themselves face to face with the element of water. "We finally made it," Fil exclaimed, his voice brimming with jubilation. "Now, all that's left is to inform Ori and Sein of our success," he continued, beginning to focus his light. However, his action was abruptly halted by Reem.
"Hold on... something's not right," Reem cautioned, his eyes sweeping the surroundings. The heart of the Ginso Tree was engulfed in purple and black tumors. 'Black tumors... this is unusual; the corruption is normally purple,' Reem silently mused. "I'll take care of the Light emission," he declared, beginning to channel his Light. Fil and Leru acknowledged with a nod.
"If that's your decision," Fil acquiesced. In response, Reem unleashed a tremendous burst of Light Energy. The immense power soon waned, leaving Reem in a depleted state, necessitating a period of recovery as his Light Energy reserves had been entirely exhausted.
"Woah... was it necessary to expend all your energy?" Fil questioned, his concern evident in his tone. "That level of usage isn't the wisest move. You've likely alerted every inhabitant in the Ginso Tree, both Light and Dark," he pointed out. In response, Reem wordlessly tapped Fil's forehead with a firm finger, a silent but clear message.
Fil, slightly irked by the tap on his head, rubbed the spot as he exhaled a sigh. "Listen, you two," Reem began, gesturing with his hand for them to draw nearer. "This black tumor... if it can even be called that, is not a manifestation of the usual corruption," he explained in hushed tones. "I suspect it's some form of technique." His words prompted both companions to shift their gaze toward the water element, pondering this revelation.
"Be aware, the enemy might be in close proximity, yet I can't detect their presence," Reem cautioned. "They could have depleted their energy in battle or in creating this black tumor," he speculated. "Here's what we'll do: continue your training immediately. Fil, focus on refining your piercing fist technique while also scanning the vicinity for your emission ability. Leru, persist with your wind shuriken technique."
"Aye," Leru acknowledged Reem's instruction, her focus intensifying as she began forming a small shuriken, gradually expanding it into a larger, more formidable version. "Aim for an extremely dense wind composition; it should be capable of slicing through rock," Reem directed, his voice firm yet measured, even as he consciously moderated his Light Energy replenishment.
"...Who is that individual?" murmured a voice, echoing softly from a lofty vantage point shrouded in deep, dark shadows. "There was a moment of significant Light Energy output, and then it abruptly disappeared..." The voice, laced with a mix of curiosity and frustration, trailed off as its owner scratched their head, pondering the enigma below.
"I remain unexposed as long as the black tumor continues to mask my energy emissions," the voice sighed, a hint of relief in its tone. "How much time has elapsed since the battle? Perhaps roughly an hour..." it speculated, contemplating a brief respite. "Five spirits taking a stand against an army of creatures... now that does sound rather thrilling," the voice mused, a trace of anticipation in its whispered soliloquy.
"Light Energy, like any source of energy within living beings, varies from creature to creature. Each individual possesses a predetermined amount of Energy, which can be expanded and strengthened through training and discipline. However, those born devoid of this Energy compensate with an inherently superior physical prowess, a unique gift balancing their lack of inherent power."
"The process of Energy replenishment is a crucial aspect of its usage. When Energy is expended, especially during the throes of battle, it naturally begins to replenish itself. This regeneration, while active even in combat, occurs at a markedly slower rate. Yet, when one consciously abstains from utilizing energy-intensive techniques, the rate of energy regeneration significantly accelerates. This speed of recovery is also influenced by the individual's proficiency and mastery in handling their Energy. Higher skill levels often correlate with quicker and more efficient energy renewal, enabling seasoned practitioners to manage their resources more effectively in prolonged engagements."
~~~~~~
"Listen closely, once we succeed in aligning the owl with our cause, the forest's fate will be sealed. With every spirit extinguished, we will possess this land and proliferate our kind," whispered a Ghoul, concealed within the shadows of Nibel.
"If my assumptions are correct, a Light Ceremony will soon be invoked to summon spirits throughout the forest. Prior to this, our plan is to sabotage the forcefield erected by the owl to safeguard its offspring. This action will trigger the owl into a frenzy, a situation we shall exploit," declared the same Ghoul, emerging from the darkness. His appearance was striking – a sleek, formidable spirit-like entity adorned with vivid purple lines traversing his arms and a distinct scar-like streak over his left eye.
"Given our limited numbers, I will assign each of you to a strategic position. This is to guarantee we engage any spirits who withstand our initial onslaught," the Ghoul explained authoritatively. The focus then shifted to the nine other Ghouls gathered around, one of whom raised a hand in query. "Why should we disperse?" the Ghoul inquired, voicing a note of skepticism.
"We cannot afford the restoration of any element, as we – well, almost none among us except the higher beings – are incapable of destroying or tampering with the forest's Elements," the Ghoul elaborated. "Now, pay attention. Nibel comprises three elements: Water, Wind, and Warmth. I will personally handle Warmth. The rest of you, decide among yourselves where to go. Zeriz, I specifically want you roaming the forest alone," he commanded, just as Zeriz began to voice an objection.
"But!" Zeriz started, only to be sharply interrupted. "I wasn't finished," the Ghoul with purple stripes firmly interjected, his tone unyielding and authoritative. "Your solitary roaming is crucial due to the significant chance of the Wisp's survival. It's likely they'll band together to restore the forest, a scenario I deem to have an even chance of success. Therefore, should our efforts here fail, your imperative is to flee the forest, seek refuge in Nyxus, and relay news of our defeat. Do you comprehend?" Zeriz, biting back further objections, resignedly remained silent.
"Good, now disperse and take your positions. I've identified three critical locations besides the volcano – defend them as if your lives depend on it," commanded the Ghoul with purple stripes, as he tossed a roughly sketched map of Nibel onto the ground. The assembled Ghouls responded in unison, "Yes, sir." Subsequently, they dispersed, splitting into designated groups, with Zeriz setting off in solitary defiance.
~~~~~~
Neshan - The Shadowed Soul Puppeteer
Age: Unknown
Sex: Male
Inherited Art: Thorned Soul Maniplicy
The enigmatic ability known as Thorned Soul Maniplicy is a dark art that allows the user to transform both objects and living beings into subservient entities under his command. The most traditional approach to harnessing this power involves the user feeding their own finger to the target. However, more skilled practitioners of this sinister art have unearthed alternative methods to exert their control.
A distinctive aspect of Neshan's energy form is the dual focus on Body and Soul. This unique trait enables him to target not only the physical form but also the soul of his adversaries. This ability is particularly potent in close-quarters combat, allowing him to circumvent any form of protective Light Energy or similar defenses that typically fortify the skin of various creatures. Despite its strengths, this ability is inherently limited to hand-to-hand engagements, demanding close proximity to effectively utilize its full potential.
~~~~~~
"Yo... I've returned to lend you support," a voice murmured in a hush. The Ghoul, jolted from its nap, instinctively swung a punch at the source of the disturbance. "A-" the intruding Ghoul began to yelp, only to be swiftly silenced as the napper realized its error, hastily covering the other's mouth with a hand to prevent any further commotion.
Reem, stationed beneath the heart of the Ginso Tree, detected a faint noise. He scanned his surroundings, then dismissed it as inconsequential. "What the hell, Mithzari," Neshan hissed under his breath, irritation lacing his voice as he rubbed his nose. "Why on earth did you return?" he demanded in a hushed but harsh tone, to which Mithzari responded in a similarly low but intense whisper.
"Because... I got lost," Neshan muttered, arms crossed, deliberately avoiding eye contact. Mithzari exhaled a deep, exasperated sigh. "Whatever, just do as you please," he conceded, resigning himself to Neshan's presence before settling down once again.
"What's your scheme?" Neshan asked, a hint of courtesy in his voice, only to be met with Mithzari's indifferent turn of the shoulder. Frustrated, Neshan puffed up his cheeks. "Fine," he huffed, "I'll just proceed with my own agenda," he smirked wickedly, readying himself to jump.
"Alright..." Mithzari relented, sitting up once more. "I'll explain my strategy and why you should get the fuck out of the tree immediately," he murmured, a note of annoyance in his voice. "That's not going to happen," Neshan quickly interjected. Mithzari responded with a facepalm. "As soon as every spirit is in place, I plan to unleash a legion of creatures that will undoubtedly overpower them. Should you interfere, you risk being overwhelmed alongside them," he elaborated.
"Ooh, what a splendid strategy!" Neshan exclaimed softly, clapping his hands in mock appreciation. "There, You've got your grand plan explanation, now let me be," Mithzari grumbled, eager to return to his rest. "Alright, alright, but I'm not going anywhere," Neshan declared. "Whatever," Mithzari muttered dismissively, and with that, a tense silence settled between them.
"Fil, do not overexert yourself," Reem advised as he approached Fil, who had sustained an injury during his Piercing Fist practice. "Take some time to rest. If you incur further injuries, I'll have to pull you from the field," Reem cautioned, his tone firm yet concerned. Fil nodded, a trace of self-disappointment evident in his demeanor.
Meanwhile, Leru was diligently refining her technique, concentrating on intensifying her wind to a lethal potency. "Leru, throw and take command of it," Reem instructed, approaching her. Startled slightly, Leru complied with his command. She hurled her wind shuriken at a small boulder, resulting in an explosion upon impact, unleashing a fierce gust that etched a clear mark on the stone.
"...That's sufficient. Now, replenish your Light Energy and take a brief respite," Reem stated, satisfied, as he made his way back to sit beside Fil, with Leru trailing behind. "Focus on scanning the vicinity and strategizing line-ups for any potential confrontations. Once Sein returns, she'll attend to your hand," he suggested, offering a blend of tactical advice and reassurance. Fil acknowledged with a silent nod, absorbing the guidance.
As the two spirits journeyed through the Ginso Tree, intent on reaching its heart, they abruptly experienced a massive surge of Light Energy permeating the area. "Did you feel that?" Sein inquired, a note of surprise in her voice. Ori responded with a confirming nod, equally taken aback by the sensation.
"It seems the Energy wave originated nearby," Sein observed, turning towards Ori, who appeared lost in contemplation. "Ori..?" she prompted, seeking to draw him out of his reverie, yet no reply came. Ori was engrossed in his mental arithmetic, surmising that the energy behaved akin to an expanding sphere. Realizing that the initial contact was with the tips of his ears, he inferred their position at the sphere's center. He concluded that a direct ascent could significantly simplify their quest.
"ORI!" Sein shouted, effectively jolting Ori back to the present. "Ah- sorry, I got carried away," Ori quickly apologized, slightly embarrassed by his deep focus. "What had you so preoccupied just now?" Sein inquired, her voice laced with mild concern. "You see, considering that the Energy wave probably radiated outward like a sphere, we can ascertain that we're at its epicenter, albeit not at the optimal altitude," Ori rapidly clarified, his insight prompting Sein to ponder the implications.
"Well..." Sein mused, deep in thought, "huh... that does seem logical," she concluded. Ori, with a hint of nervousness, inquired, "Are we... permitted to cause damage here?" Sein pondered for a moment before replying, "Given that the area is already in a state of disrepair and considering that everything will eventually be restored, it's likely more prudent to reach the heart as swiftly as we can," she suggested, weighing their options.
"My suggestion would be to create an opening in the ceiling and then ascend," Ori proposed. Sein nodded in agreement. "That could work," she acknowledged, beginning to amass her flames. Concerned, Ori asked, "This won't deplete your energy, will it?" Sein shook her head, reassuring him, "No need to worry, this is fairly straightforward for me," as she intensified her focus on the flames, condensing them further until a single droplet of liquid emerged.
Mesmerized, Ori observed the brilliant display of flames. With a sudden burst, Sein directed the energy upward, effortlessly carving a precise circular hole through several layers. "...SINCE WHEN CAN YOU FIRE LASER BEAMS!?" Ori exclaimed, his voice a mix of shock and awe at the spectacle he had just witnessed.
"Actually, it's more accurately plasma-based, and I've had this ability since my time as the Wisp of Nibel," Sein clarified, her demeanor casual as she shrugged, her face lighting up with a playful grin. Intrigued, Ori inquired, "So, does it need a long time to charge up?" Sein nodded, confirming his suspicion, "Yes, indeed. The extended charge time is precisely why I use it sparingly in combat – it tends to give our enemies ample time to strategize," she elaborated, offering insight into her tactical decisions.
"Uh- okay, moving on," Ori attempted to refocus, setting aside the amazement he'd just experienced. He swiftly deployed his grapples upward. "Let's make our move," he declared, beginning his ascent with Sein in tow. After scaling a couple of floors, a moment of doubt struck them. "Wait a second, how can we be sure we're on the correct level?" Ori pondered aloud, pausing his climb after two floors, with Sein mirroring his actions.
"I'm not sure either," Sein confessed, both of them pausing on their current level, unsure of how to proceed. A hush fell between them, during which Ori's ears picked up an extremely faint noise. "...Sein, can you hear that?" he asked, his voice low. Sein listened intently but shook her head in response. "I can't detect anything," she responded, her shoulders lifting in a shrug of uncertainty.
"Follow me," Ori instructed, setting off in a particular direction. Sein, with a nonchalant shrug, trailed behind him. Gradually, the sound they were pursuing became more distinct, yet it remained so faint that complete silence was needed to discern it – a barely audible murmur of heavy wind.
"Oh, now I can hear it," Sein acknowledged, her ears finely tuned to the sound. "...Could that be wind?" she wondered aloud. Ori nodded in agreement. "Yes, it's definitely wind. I suspect it's them. Leru must be using her wind abilities, perhaps as part of her training," Ori speculated, his tone uncertain yet leaning towards a reasonable assumption.
"Could they have possibly discovered a surviving Spirit?" Sein pondered, a hint of hope in her voice. Ori responded with a casual shrug. "Maybe, but there's no way for me to be sure," he replied, his tone reflecting uncertainty. Sein glanced aside, musing over the possibility. "True enough... Nonetheless, should they have found someone, I sincerely hope that spirit possesses considerable strength. We could certainly benefit from additional support in combat," Sein reflected, considering the potential implications.
"Let's make haste," Ori urged, swiftly returning to the openings created by Sein and resuming his climb, with Sein closely following. Fully concentrating on maximizing his auditory senses, Ori meticulously ascended six additional floors. He then paused, carefully signaling to Sein to descend one level, ensuring they were precisely positioned.
Once on solid ground again, Ori gestured for Sein to follow and broke into a run. Sein, without hesitation, matched his pace. As they moved, Sein found herself pondering, 'When did Ori acquire such... skills?' Yet, she swiftly shelved these thoughts, focusing instead on keeping up with Ori's lead.
Shortly thereafter, the guiding sound they had been following vanished, prompting Ori to come to a standstill, and Sein followed suit. "The wind has stopped," she commented. Ori concurred with a nod. "Indeed, and we're surrounded by an array of portals," he observed. "To pinpoint their exact location, we might have to wait for the sound to resume, unless you know of an alternative approach," he proposed, seeking Sein's insight.
"Actually, there's a technique we could use," Sein suggested. "Light Energy emits faint, discernible traces with each step. This unique characteristic isn't shared by other energy forms, but with Light Energy, it's feasible. By focusing, we can detect these subtle remnants, like tracking the lingering scent of past footsteps," she elucidated.
"That bit of information could have been handy earlier on," Ori commented, his gaze humorously blank as he looked at Sein. "Heheh, my apologies, it just slipped my mind," Sein chuckled, amused by Ori's theatrical expression. "So, since I'm not versed in this technique, could you take the lead?" Ori requested.
"Of course, but it's relatively simple. With a bit of focus, you'll start sensing and eventually visualizing it," Sein assured. "Though, I must admit, I'm not completely sure if we'll find any Light Energy traces in this particular room," she added, her tone reflecting a mix of confidence and caution.
After a brief scan, Sein intently focused on the ground, gracefully kneeling on one knee. Gradually, faint traces of Light Energy began to materialize, each one slowly forming a coherent shape. A series of delicate footsteps emerged, each leading towards a single portal, like an ethereal guide.
Silently, Sein commenced following the ghostly footsteps, her attention undivided. Ori, recognizing her deep focus, trailed her in hushed solidarity. Each time they passed through a portal, Sein's concentration briefly faltered, prompting her to patiently restart the tracking process, repeating this cycle with unwavering resolve.
From afar, a voice permeated their surroundings, "...That's sufficient. Now, replenish your Light Energy and take a brief respite." It was a distant murmur, yet discernible. Engrossed in her task, Sein felt Ori's gentle tap on her shoulder. "I heard someone speaking," he murmured softly, effectively drawing Sein out of her intense focus. She acknowledged his observation with a nod, now equally alert to the external presence.
Together, Ori and Sein navigated their way down the tunnel, moving towards its exit. Light streamed in, illuminating their path, but as they neared the end, the brightness gradually dimmed, revealing three other spirits seated at a distance from the tunnel's mouth.
"Ori! Sein!" Fil called out, his voice filled with relief at their safe arrival. "Thank the light you're both alright." Ori responded with a raised hand in acknowledgment of the greeting. Meanwhile, Sein's gaze was drawn to Reem, prompting her to nudge Ori's arm subtly. "Do you see that muscular Spirit over there?" she inquired, with Ori nodding in response.
"That's Reem. He might be able to assist you in your training," Sein suggested to Ori, who acknowledged with a nod. Leru and Reem accompanied Fil as he approached Ori and Sein. "You two didn't encounter any trouble along the way, did you?" Fil inquired, his tone laced with concern for their well-being.
"Well..." Sein began, her mind briefly revisiting their unpleasant encounter with a Ghoul, an experience that was less than favorable for both her and Ori. "Let's just consider the issue as having been resolved, albeit temporarily," she concluded, her voice nonchalant, accompanied by a casual shrug.
"Setting that matter aside, what's the current situation?" Sein inquired, casting her gaze towards the heart of the Ginso Tree, now marred with purple and black tumors. "That definitely doesn't bode well," she observed, her concern evident. Ori, walking beside her, also scrutinized the scene, his face contorting into an expression of visible revulsion.
"Well, as it stands, you can see the purple tumors, and then there are these... uh, black ones. Reem hypothesized they might be a technique utilized by one of those... um, black spirits?" Fil explained, his voice trailing off as he grappled with the correct terminology for the different spirit types.
"I understand," Sein murmured, her mind actively working to formulate a plan of action. Meanwhile, in the background, Ori provided additional context to Leru and Fil, "They're known as Ghouls," he clarified, receiving understanding nods in return. "Our immediate priority should be to address the purple tumors; they appear to be linked to two different sections of the Ginso Tree," Sein proposed, gesturing towards the interconnected purple growths on the tree walls
"Sein, could the black tumor be related to what the Ghoul we met earlier expelled?" Ori interjected, raising a pertinent point. Sein pondered for a moment before dismissing the concern. "Even if that's the case, our priority should remain on eliminating the purple tumors first," she reasoned. "I propose we divide into pairs once more and tackle them systematically," Sein suggested, focusing on a pragmatic approach.
"That plan works," Fil concurred, pondering the group formation. "I'll team up with Leru and Sein on the left, while Ori and Reem can handle the right side," he outlined. The proposal was met with general consensus. Ori, however, harbored a desire to track down the Ghoul instead. Feeling outvoted and hesitant to voice his dissent, he chose to keep his reservations to himself.
With the departure of the others, a look of discontent crossed Ori's features. "Upset about not pairing with the wisp?" Reem casually asked. "Huh?" Ori, momentarily taken aback, looked in Reem's direction. "No, my concern lies with these black tumors surrounding the heart. They give me an uneasy feeling," Ori confessed, his eyes lingering on the central part of the Ginso Tree.
"That's a reasonable approach," Reem acknowledged with a shrug. "However, given that the majority's focus is on eliminating the purple tumors, we should prioritize that," he stated, moving towards the right side of the purple tumor. He gestured for Ori to accompany him, and Ori, without any objections, readily followed his lead.
"Let's set aside that topic for now and focus on your combat abilities," Reem suggested. Ori, feeling somewhat unsure, scratched the back of his head. "Truthfully, I don't have extensive knowledge in that area," Ori admitted, causing a look of surprise to cross Reem's face. "Really? From an initial glance, one would presume you possess at least a basic understanding of fighting techniques," Reem commented, his expression turning to one of mild boredom as he exhaled a sigh.
"What skills do you possess, then?" Reem asked, prompting Ori to delve into self-reflection. "Sein pointed out that there's a delay in my punches, attributed to a bad habit common among some spirits. Additionally, I have the ability to eject a sticky, silk-like substance from my wrists," Ori explained, sharing the extent of his current combat capabilities with Reem.
"I understand," Reem acknowledged. "True strength comes from mastering one's Light Energy. I recommend you familiarize yourself with that control before diving into advanced techniques," he advised. "Controlling it is quite straightforward, though I believe it's best for you to discover the method on your own," he added, demonstrating his agility by leaping up several floors effortlessly.
Upon reaching a vantage point, Reem surveyed the surroundings. "This entire area is like an intense parkour challenge," he commented, eyeing the disarray. Ori quickly caught up and joined him on the platform. "Oh wow, you're right – it's like a labyrinth of parkour," Ori concurred, equally impressed and daunted by the scene before them.
"We'll make quick work of this," Ori asserted confidently, readying his grapple to surmount the complex terrain ahead. Reem, typically more inclined towards a cautious approach, saw the practicality in Ori's method and concurred that they should converge at the identified vulnerable spot of the corruption, showing a willingness to adjust to the unfolding scenario.
Shortly, the duo reached the summit of the room, arriving at a crucial weak point of the purple tumor. "Ori, notice that?" Reem gestured towards a distinctive purple tumor, its hue intensifying into a deeper purple as it neared the center. Ori observed closely and nodded in recognition of the significant detail.
"Targeting this section will set off a domino effect amongst these tumors," Reem elucidated, touching the critical area gently. "Should we destroy it immediately?" Ori queried. Reem negated the idea, "Let's hold off for the moment. We reached this point without much resistance, so we'll wait for the others to initiate their part. Once they do, then we'll proceed," he strategized. "But in the meantime, there's something else you can do right now..." he hinted, suggesting an immediate course of action.
Upon entering the left room, the trio was greeted with the sight of numerous portals, interspersed among visibly scattered platforms. "Well... this is hardly surprising," Fil commented, his voice laden with fatigue, a clear sign of his growing weariness from the repetitive sight of the portals.
Fil let out a wistful sigh. "If only there were an easier way to ascend," he mused. As the thought took shape, his gaze gradually shifted towards Leru. Sein, intuiting Fil's train of thought, also turned her attention to Leru, who began to exhibit signs of nervousness under their collective scrutiny.
Caught off guard, Leru stumbled over her words, "Uuh... uhm," uncertain as to why she had suddenly become the center of attention. The moment of uneasy silence was soon replaced by a surprising shift in the scene. Gently, as if on an invisible elevator, they began to ascend. Leru, utilizing her wind abilities, had created a platform that lifted them all towards their destination.
As they ascended, both Fil and Sein couldn't help but display comically joyful expressions. The focus then narrowed back to a close-up of the trio. "I'm really thankful for your wind powers," Fil expressed warmly, his smile broad as he gently patted Leru on the shoulder in appreciation.
"Yeah..." Leru sighed, her focus unwavering as she diligently kept the wind platform stable. Meanwhile, Sein remained vigilant, her eyes scanning their surroundings while they ascended from one platform to the next. Her spirit flames danced quietly around her, adding a serene ambiance. Before long, they arrived at the top. Upon landing, the trio immediately directed their attention towards a purple mass at the far end of the room.
"Well... that was easier than expected," Fil remarked, casually scratching the back of his head, a hint of surprise in his tone. Abruptly, the atmosphere shifted as Sein's gaze sharply turned upward. In a swift, fluid motion, her Spirit Flame coalesced and morphed into a powerful Burst, which she promptly launched towards the ceiling with determined precision.
"OW!" the ghoul yelped loudly, taken aback as he was struck head-on by the burst, tumbling onto the ground. "Uh... hey, this is awkward," he quipped, facing the trio of spirits, swiftly dusting off his fur. "Anyway..." he trailed off, and in a swift, almost imperceptible movement, he had rapidly closed the gap between himself and Sein, his hand outstretched.
Sein, with lightning-fast reflexes, launched a forceful punch directly into the Ghoul's face, propelling him backwards. "Ow... quite the quick reflexes," the ghoul remarked, somewhat impressed, massaging the spot where Sein's fist had connected. "Both of you, step back now," Sein ordered authoritatively. Leru and Fil instantly complied, retreating several steps to maintain a safe distance.
~~~~~~
Sein - The Wisp of Nibel
Age: 21(86)
Sex: Female
Inherited Art: Spirit Flame
The Spirit Flame, a defining ability bestowed upon the wisp of Nibel, radiates an intense heat and boasts an elegant light blue hue. This ability has undergone centuries of evolution, emerging stronger and more formidable with each passing era. The versatility of the Spirit Flame in combat allows for a wide range of creative applications, despite there being a specific set of moves traditionally associated with it. Its previous wielder, Ano, possessed a unique inherent ability that synergized exceptionally well with the Spirit Flame, enhancing its effectiveness.
Sein's special trait, Efficient Light, is a crucial aspect of her prowess. This trait enables her to optimize the use of any technique, ensuring maximum efficacy while expending the least amount of Light Energy possible. Paired with the Spirit Flame, Sein's Efficient Light trait sets her apart. She is the first, and likely the only individual capable of sustaining the Spirit Flame for extended durations. This is particularly noteworthy given the high demand of the Spirit Flame on a user's Light Energy, a challenge even for Wisps, whose Light Energy reserves are near limitless.
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Sein assumed a defensive stance, bracing herself for the impending assault. Meanwhile, the Ghoul sported a confident smirk, his hand emanating a sinister dark green energy. Without delay, he lunged forward, his palm aglow and poised to strike at Sein.
"He's repeated this move twice," Sein thought to herself, cautiously observing the Ghoul's glowing palm that instinctively she knew to avoid. The Ghoul's palm came swinging rapidly towards her, but Sein adeptly stepped back. As he swung with his other hand, Sein intercepted, blocking his forearm and narrowly evading his palm. However, as the Ghoul withdrew his left hand, Sein's attention momentarily shifted, leaving her unprepared for the sudden fist that struck the right side of her head.
The force of the punch was so immense it nearly sent Sein tumbling to the ground. However, with remarkable agility, she flipped back onto her feet, visibly startled by the ferocity of the impact. "I was certain I had shielded myself with Light Energy, even deploying a Simple Barrier," she reflected internally, her gaze fixed on the Ghoul, who now wore a self-satisfied snicker.
Simple Barrier - The user erects a slim protective barrier around themselves using their own Light Energy, effectively diminishing incoming damage.
Sein briskly wiped the area where she had been struck and reassumed her defensive posture. The Ghoul's hands began to radiate with dark green energy once more. Breaking the intensity of the moment, he inquired in a surprisingly polite tone, "May I have the honor of knowing your name, madam?"
Puzzled by the Ghoul's manner, Sein nonetheless responded, "I am Sein." At her reply, the dark green energy in the Ghoul's hand abruptly vanished. "The wisp Sein?" he echoed, his astonishment evident as his face morphed into an exaggerated expression of confusion.
"Yes, that's me... but why do you ask?" Sein queried, still on guard. The Ghoul glanced around furtively, then, with a touch of comedic flair, announced, "Well then... time for me to skedaddle!" He then commenced a humorously exaggerated dash, leaving Sein momentarily dumbfounded by the sudden turn of events.
"Hey—come back!" Sein shouted, swiftly pursuing the fleeing Ghoul. Over her shoulder, she commanded Leru and Fil, "Handle the purple tumor!" They nodded, understanding the urgency. Meanwhile, the Ghoul, still on the run, quipped to himself, "Tangling with wisps, now that's a gamble, especially when you can't tamper with a wisp's soul," his tone infused with a hint of humor as he fled.
In a swift motion, Neshan leaped down to a lower platform, then expelled his stomach acid against the wall, dissolving the wood in an instant. He dove through the newly-formed gap, narrowly evading the spirit flames aimed at him. Landing deftly on the ground, Neshan executed a tactical roll to cushion the impact on his legs. Sein, maintaining her pursuit, slid down the wall in a controlled descent.
Moments later, the purple tumors connected to the heart began to detonate, triggering a chain reaction that caused the right side to erupt in tandem. In the brief instant Sein diverted her gaze upwards, Neshan seized the opportunity. His left arm morphed into a thorny, rigid vine, which he swiftly propelled towards Sein.
With mere moments to spare, Sein raised her arms in defense, infusing them with a surge of light energy and conjuring another simple barrier. The barrier effectively reduced the force of the impact, sending Sein backwards against the wall. She managed to grasp onto the wall momentarily before slowly beginning her descent once again.
"I managed to block most of the damage this time..?" Sein mused to herself, her gaze fixed intently on the Ghoul before her. Neshan, seemingly amused, engaged in a silent staredown with the wisp of Nibel. In this tense moment, neither made any move that would advantageously play into the Ghoul's strategy.
Meanwhile, another ghoul, Mithzari, concealed in the shadows, stealthily descended onto the heart, perched upon the black goop. He intertwined his fingers, beginning a dark chant, "Gloop and gore, black seethe and squirm... Rend and tear, in bile form... Ooze spawn rise, dread and mire! Feast of flesh of dark-." His ominous incantation was abruptly cut short by an unexpected kick from the side.
Catching the tail end of the chant, "Ooze spawn rise, dread and mire...," Ori swiftly reacted. Swinging from the same direction as the Ghoul's arrival, he launched another grapple. Utilizing his other hand to amplify his speed, Ori executed a powerful double kick, forcefully ejecting the Ghoul from atop the Ginso Tree's heart.
The Ghoul, recently ejected by Ori, watched with a smile as Ori landed on the black tumor, triggering its explosion. A cascade of black liquid spread rapidly, setting off a chain reaction across all the black tumors. From this maelstrom, an array of creatures burst forth, including a massive snake that clamped down on Ori. Caught between its jaws, Ori strained against the creature, desperately keeping the enormous mouth from closing and engulfing him.
Caught off guard by the abrupt turn of events, Sein momentarily froze, unsure of how to respond. In that instant, Neshan charged towards her, but his attack was abruptly interrupted as a large wind shuriken severed his arm, the severed limb slapping against Sein's abdomen. Stunned by the unexpected loss of his limb, Neshan paused, just as Sein regained her composure, both quickly refocusing on the immediate threat.
With her left hand engulfed in flames, Sein struck the Ghoul with a powerful punch, knocking him sideways. "I must maintain focus..." she mentally urged herself, eyes locked on the Ghoul as she unleashed a relentless barrage of Spirit Flames. Neshan, displaying remarkable resilience, swiftly regenerated his arm and nimbly maneuvered to the left, evading the fiery onslaught with his remaining limbs.
Sein's efforts to maintain focus quickly unraveled as a deluge of creatures descended from above. Several tumbled over the edge, yet many managed to stay on their respective platforms. Amidst the chaos, Neshan taunted with a self-satisfied snicker, "What's your next move, wisp?"
Sein shifted to a more relaxed stance, taking a deep, visible breath as her body temperature visibly increased. Gradually, intricate light blue markings emerged across her skin, and a stunningly detailed blue floral line gracefully adorned the area below her eyes, signaling a profound transformation.
Neshan's snickers faded into silence as he witnessed Sein's transformation, beads of sweat forming on his brow. "Mitz? This doesn't bode well..." he muttered anxiously. Mithzari joined him, reassuring yet tactical, "Irrelevant. Reinforcements are on their way. We sent a distress signal; they should be here shortly. Our job is to stall," he declared, his eyes intently observing the wisp of Nibel.
Faced with an onslaught of creatures converging on her, Sein's arm markings ignited into small, fierce flames. With her palms facing the ground, she unleashed an immense burst of fire, creating a blazing inferno that engulfed everything within its immediate vicinity.
Visibly shaken by Sein's display of power, Neshan queried anxiously, "Mitz... how much time do we need to buy?" Mithzari, equally tense, snapped back, "I can't be certain!" He paused, then speculated, "Perhaps fifteen minutes?!" His gaze then shifted back to Sein, observing her with a mix of wariness and concentration.
Seizing the opportunity while the two Ghouls were distracted in conversation, Sein executed a spinning axel kick, generating a fierce arc of blue flames. Neshan and Mithzari swiftly leaped to evade the attack. Sein then propelled herself forward, using a powerful flame blast as a booster, and descended with force towards Neshan's position. Although Neshan managed to dodge the direct hit, the resulting afterblast sent him reeling.
In a desperate and swift move, Neshan bit off one of his fingers and swallowed it immediately. His white pupil shifted to a deep purple, and intricate purple markings sprawled across his chest and down his arm. he forcefully struck the ground with his arm, causing numerous thorned vines to burst forth from the earth, all converging towards Sein with menacing intent.
Sein swiftly lunged forward, landing assertively on both feet. She moved her arm fluidly, as if swimming through the air, with flames elegantly following her motion. With a vigorous upward swipe, she released two sweeping waves of fire. These fiery arcs clashed against the incoming vines, incinerating their tips where they were most vulnerable. The rest of the vines, although scorched, remained largely intact, still posing a threat.
To eliminate the remaining vines, Sein's right arm markings began to radiate intensely, tiny flames flickering into existence. With a powerful thrust into the air, she unleashed a torrent of blue flames, which swept across the area, completely incinerating the residual vines.
Rejoining Mithzari, Neshan couldn't contain his frustration. "What in the world have you been up to?!" he bellowed at his accomplice. "Calm down, I'm in the midst of summoning a powerful creature. These things require time," Mithzari responded, his voice a mix of irritation and concentration.
Before either Ghoul could prepare for their next move, a massive snake descended upon them with alarming velocity. Its gaping maw open wide, it struck the ground with immense force, effectively trapping Neshan and Mithzari inside its jaws.
Sein briefly glanced at Ori, who clung to the wall, before redirecting her attention to the snake. Seizing the moment, she inhaled deeply and brought her hands together. The air around her grew warmer, and minuscule flames began to seep through the slight spaces between her fingers, indicating the buildup of immense power.
Revealing the palms of her hands, Sein unveiled an incredibly dense Spirit Flame, pulsating with energy at their center. She then gracefully unfurled her arms, the flame responding by expanding into an immense, fiery sphere, drawing heavily upon her reserves of Light Energy. "Maximum Art: Super Nova," she intoned solemnly. With deft and fluid motions, Sein controlled the Super Nova, directing it with precision toward the ensnared snake.
For ease of reading, the XL chapter is divided into two sections, evenly distributing the content.