Piera

Blinking at the correction, the brunette's ears reddened at her incorrect assumption and immediately apologized, "S-Sorry. Shouldn't have assumed. It's a good name. Your shop I mean. And yours!" Clearing her throat, the alchemist focused on what he was saying about pricing, wincing slightly at the material price for the kind of item she was looking for. She wasn't entirely sure what he meant about the frontlines, but assumed that he meant that he had different prices set for players fighting on the front lines of Aincrad. Many crafters did that, she was one of them, though she only did it when the battle against the floor boss was near. She was about to politely decline as she needed all of her materials to complete her orders when the white haired man commented on her tier. Pulling at the fringe of her bangs, Piera replied, "Yeah...I'm kinda low leveled. I pretty much just sit in my shop and craft the majority of the time. I'm not that great at combat."

Perking up as he began to speak again, her eyebrows shot up above her glasses as he offered her the item for free, handing her a brightly decorated vanilla ice cream cone. Taking the cone out of instinct more than anything, green eyes flicked from the treat to the player who crafted it a few times before asking, "For free, are you sure? I could do a trade if you like. Er, for anything other than perfect items. I'm an alchemist by the way. Piera." She held out the hand not holding the Ice Dream to shake Sey's. "I have literal crates full of wacky potions and plenty of uncommon and rare items as well if you're interested."

The ice cream was starting to look so good, she leaned closer to take a lick before realizing something and stopping herself. "Heh...should probably wait to eat it until I'm ready to craft." The healer inventoried the treat before it could melt (could it even melt) and looked at Sey expectantly.

Pouting slightly at Lee's 'I saw that' motion, Piera then pulled at her bangs in embarrassment as Soredell asked if she was okay, "Y-Yeah yeah, don't mind me, sorry." When the other two players weren't looking she then stuck her tongue out at the heavily armored man, continuing on their way. Tilting her head to glance over at Yuurei, the alchemist nodded with interest as she stated what she'd like for a familiar. "Definitely a cool idea." Her eyes wandered upwards as she thought of it. "Petting would be tricky. Though I wonder what sort of enhancements a spectral familiar would have? I'd say evasion, but I don't think that's a thing with familiars."

Her eyebrows would raise slightly as her boyfriend would suddenly call out harshly to his own familiar, the tiny boar immediately responding by coming running back. He always had been good at training animals. ....Well, dogs at least.

At the ninja like guy's response to her mentioning the Tracking skill, she laughed somewhat awkwardly before shrugging, "Hey, consumables and equipment is plenty. That's all I had when I got Jareth. And Lee didn't even have those I think." The alchemist glanced over at said man for confirmation before nodding. Soredell's advice for the white haired girl seemed well received, and she also personally thought it was a good idea. Offering a supportive smile, the brunette commented, "Always better safe than sorry. Especially here." Meaning SAO of course.

At Yuurei's comment about the dragon they were searching for being rare, Piera let a long sigh escape her. "It sure seems like. Or perhaps it's good at camouflage? Or only spawns under certain conditions..." She was really hoping it wasn't the latter though. Who knew what said conditions might even be? Soredell really seemed to have his heart set on that particular kind of creature too. "Let's not get discouraged." The healer rallied with a smile. "Maybe the dragon's secretly stalking us to see if Soredell's a good candidate to tame it! Quick look kind and responsible!" She gave the ninja a teasing poke in the arm.

It was getting down to the final stretch now that scouts had found the boss room for the next floor. With an official meeting called to strategize the battle and speculate on what they would be going up against, it would only be a matter of days until they actually went up against whatever it was that they'd be fighting this time. Which meant that she had a very limited amount of time to finish both Shield and Macradon's orders. She had finally managed to get a bit of luck and finished both of them in one fell swoop. She might even be able to do a little last minute crafting for any procrastinators. But for now, she sent a message to both @Shield and @Macradon to let them know that their orders were completed and ready to be picked up at their convenience. Now that that was taken care of, she settled in for the tedious business of sorting and labeling her good quality potions.

It wasn't long at all before there was a knock at the door to her shop, causing her to tilt her head in mild confusion before realizing that so far only one other person had bothered to knock. Sure enough, in stepped the simply named tank, causing a friendly smile to spread on the alchemist's lips as she nodded back to him. "Good to see you too Shield." As they exchanged pleasantries, Piera began setting out his order one by one, the potions lined up in a row on the counter in front of him. Eyes flicking back up to the tall man, she smiled slightly at his offer but still nodded. "You're right. On both accounts. I'll keep you in mind. And hey, let me know if you ever need any other alchemical items, or even a healer. Or just someone to talk to." The brunette shrugged, not sure how that last suggestion would be received as so far their interactions had been fairly business-like, even when he had assisted her with a quest. Perhaps it was their age difference, but regardless, she still offered. It was the least she could do considering he had lent his ear when he found her at the Monument of Life.

Accepting the trade without accepting anything in return as he had payed when he first made the order, Piera then became somewhat serious as he told her to take care of herself. "You too, okay?" The casual answer asked with absolute seriousness and concern. She suddenly felt awkward, not knowing the man well enough to ask him not to take any undue risks, especially considering that he was a tank, so it was pretty much in his job description. But she still would really prefer he not die. No, she had to had faith. He seemed like a experienced and careful person. Shaking her head slightly, Piera smiled and said with a little more positive enthusiasm, "Good luck. See you around Shield."

Piera had been exploring a bit more lately in between her long crafting sessions. Sometimes getting too into her craft made her a bit too introspective. Thinking of people who were no longer there and why. Sometimes it gave her more drive to craft or get more materials, but it wasn't always a good thing. So she tried to force herself to go out and explore the various cities, towns and villages that Aincrad had to offer. Lately she had been enjoying Taft. It was a bustling city and seemed to be a trade capitol, though she wondered how many crafters picked up and relocated here because of it. Perhaps it wouldn't hurt to look around and see for herself.

Most of them seemed to all be talk and not that high ranked in their respective crafts. Perhaps the big city wasn't the way to go. Piera continued wandering around until she came across a rather humble looking shop and instantly took a liking to it. She always appreciated a more plain approach. Entering the shop labeled 'Halcyon's Keep', the woman's green eyes widened behind her glasses at the very modern (for Aincrad at least) appearance of the restaurant. Mouth slightly open as she looked around, she felt mildly silly in her fairly medieval dark purple dress. If she didn't know any better it was nearly like she had just stepped back into the real world.

Blinking rapidly as she was greeted,  "Welcome to the Keep. How may I help you today?" Piera closed her mouth with a swallow as her eyes flicked over to the speaker. The player was male, standing behind the counter of the bar and having a pleasant and demure smile that put her at ease. "Ah, hello there, Halcyon I assume? Um..." She hadn't really come for any particular reason but didn't want to admit that so wracked her brain for something. "Do you happen to have any items that could give buffs when you craft?"

Name: Tristan's Protection

Your Profession: Alchemist

Your Rank: 7

ID:  82339

Roll: 13

Item Type: Potion
Tier: 2

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Damage Mitigation

Description: A square vial filled with dark grey sticky liquid that smells of dirt and tastes like tree bark. After consumption, gives player plus 54 damage mitigation for a single thread.

Post Link:  http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/8534-f3-pieras-potent-potions-pk-accessible/?do=findComment&comment=514565

Name: Tristan's Protection

Your Profession: Alchemist

Your Rank: 7

ID:  82424

Roll: 12

Item Type: Potion
Tier: 2

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Damage Mitigation

Description: A square vial filled with dark grey sticky liquid that smells of dirt and tastes like tree bark. After consumption, gives player plus 54 damage mitigation for a single thread.

Post Link:  http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/8534-f3-pieras-potent-potions-pk-accessible/?do=findComment&comment=514652

Name: Alkor's Sacrifice

Your Profession: Alchemist

Your Rank: 7

ID:  82719

Roll: 12

Item Type: Potion
Tier: 1

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Safeguard

Description: A deceptively small and plain looking glass phial filled with a slightly glowing pale green liquid with thick and sticky consistency that makes it hard to pour out of the bottle quickly to drink. However it is worth the hassle as whenever one drinks the minty potion, should the consumer be attacked, the attack will do absolutely no damage. Perfect for going against a tough boss or perhaps taking a leap of faith and avoiding fall damage.

Post Link:  http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/8534-f3-pieras-potent-potions-pk-accessible/?do=findComment&comment=515072

Name: Potion of Life

Your Profession: Alchemist

Your Rank: 7

ID:  82938

Roll: 13

Item Type: Potion
Tier: 2

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Over Health

Description: A round vial filled with a muddy red liquid that smells of earth after rain and tastes like V8 juice. After consumption, gives player plus one hundred HP for a single thread.

Post Link:  http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/8534-f3-pieras-potent-potions-pk-accessible/?do=findComment&comment=515361

Name: Manta's Sacrifice

Your Profession: Alchemist

Your Rank: 7

ID:  82940

Roll: 12

Item Type: Potion
Tier: 1

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Safeguard

Description: A deceptively small and plain looking glass phial filled with a slightly glowing pale green liquid with thick and sticky consistency that makes it hard to pour out of the bottle quickly to drink. However it is worth the hassle as whenever one drinks the minty potion, should the consumer be attacked, the attack will do absolutely no damage. Perfect for going against a tough boss or perhaps taking a leap of faith and avoiding fall damage.

Post Link:  http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/8534-f3-pieras-potent-potions-pk-accessible/?do=findComment&comment=515361

Name: Azide's Sacrifice

Your Profession: Alchemist

Your Rank: 7

ID:  82942

Roll: 13

Item Type: Potion
Tier: 1

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Safeguard

Description: A deceptively small and plain looking glass phial filled with a slightly glowing pale green liquid with thick and sticky consistency that makes it hard to pour out of the bottle quickly to drink. However it is worth the hassle as whenever one drinks the minty potion, should the consumer be attacked, the attack will do absolutely no damage. Perfect for going against a tough boss or perhaps taking a leap of faith and avoiding fall damage.

Post Link:  http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/8534-f3-pieras-potent-potions-pk-accessible/?do=findComment&comment=515361

Name: Infusion of Ironbark

Your Profession: Alchemist

Your Rank: 7

ID:  83592

Roll: 13

Item Type: Potion
Tier: 2

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Damage Mitigation

Description: A square vial filled with dark grey sticky liquid that smells of dirt and tastes like tree bark. After consumption, gives player plus 54 damage mitigation for a single thread.

Post Link:  http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/8534-f3-pieras-potent-potions-pk-accessible/?do=findComment&comment=516108

Name: Potion of Life

Your Profession: Alchemist

Your Rank: 7

ID:  83593

Roll: 12

Item Type: Potion
Tier: 2

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Over Health

Description: A round vial filled with a muddy red liquid that smells of earth after rain and tastes like V8 juice. After consumption, gives player plus one hundred HP for a single thread.

Post Link:  http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/8534-f3-pieras-potent-potions-pk-accessible/?do=findComment&comment=516108

{Just submitting the perfect rolls for the items that have been ordered for now. Will submit the other lesser items for eval later.}

I really like this boss~ >3<

Not quite able to muffle her laugh as she saw her love miss his target and fall into the snow, Piera at least tried to hide her smile from behind her hand. At his question she shrugged and replied, "I can't help how sexy you are honey, gosh. ...You want some rub?" Eyeing him slyly with a wide grin as she bit her bottom lip. Shaking her head with amusement at her awful attempts at jokingly flirting, the alchemist focused from his prone form to their opponents. Mainly the one that looked like it was the most damaged. Lee still had the majority of the hate and she needed to use that to her advantage.

Taking a few large steps backwards, Piera bent her knees, eyes sharp as her weapon as she focused on the first elemental, taking off in a charging sprint before going down to a knee with her left leg extended, using her right elbow to make sure she didn't fall completely as she slid on the snow, passing right under the first ice creature. Skidding to a stop behind it, the armored woman quickly got to her feet, simultaneously twirling her green glowing trident to slash from it's bottom left to it's top right, chipping at the ice that consisted of its body as she released her sword art and scored a critical hit on it.

Seeing it's health dip down significantly (at least compared to all previous attempts) caused a smirk of satisfaction to spread across the woman's lips. ...And then whatever coolness she thought she had was lost as her eyebrows raised, looking over to Lee as she asked excitedly, "Did you see that honey! Was I good?"

ID: 83588
CD: 1+1=2 (Bad Item)
LD: 11+1=12
EXP: 1
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83589
CD: 4+1=5 (Good Item)
EXP: 2
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83590
CD: 7+1=8 (Uncommon Item)
EXP: 3
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83591
CD: 10+1=1 (Rare Item)
EXP: 5
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83592
CD: 12+1=13 (Perfect Item)
EXP: 8
-2 Tier 2 Mats

ID: 83593
CD: 11+1=12 (Perfect Item)
EXP: 8
-2 Tier 2 Mats

ID: 83594
CD: 2+1=3 (Bad Item)
LD: 14+1=15
EXP: 1
Material Salvaged

ID: 83595
CD: 5+1=6 (Good Item)
EXP: 2
-1 Tier 1 Mat

Vaguely surprised at Zandra's statement that she would never have joined the Velvet Room if it hadn't been for Jomei, the alchemist realized that perhaps she had a point in not knowing the former guild leader as well as they did, but it didn't make what she did any less horrible in her eyes. A gasp caught in Piera's throat as one moment Zandra was nearly a yard away from them and the next she was mere inches from her face. A tense expression mixed with anger and surprise mingled on her face as she stared down the other healer. But as she began to speak, the fury overtook the shock and fear, glaring right back at the younger woman. "Yeah, well Lowenthal was my friend long before you ever graced us with your presence so back 'atcha." Her tone derisive. As the raven haired woman selected something on her menu before a potion appeared in her hands, the brunette's grip on her spear tightened warily as she watched it being drank. Who knew what the effects of that thing were? The woman couldn't just leave well enough alone though, speaking to Jomei so insensitively.

Wincing at the loud clapping Howl that Calrex unleashed to catch the attention of the heated group, Piera began to calm down, listening to what he had to say. He definitely had a point about not wanting to draw the attention of the PK's that Jomei had just escaped from. Just because they had left them alone when they saw he was no longer alone didn't mean that they weren't still watching and waiting for a golden opportunity. Best not to give them one she agreed with a sigh, lowering her weapon. But some of his words just made her more annoyed, her expression showing as much. "Lee and I might have our own personal reasons to especially hate most PKs but I'm not so stupid to think that they're all the same. I haven't been forced to take a life yet thankfully, but I know plenty of good people who have had to. You're just one of them Calrex. Jomei. Lowenthal. I don't hate Ariel just on the principle of being a PK, but because she murdered one of my best friends." Yet she was quiet as he spoke to Jomei about not fighting Ariel. Pursing her lips as he asked the Irishman how he thought such a battle would go, especially if she or Lee would join in.

At the Ultramarine Knight's argument that killing Ariel would be a bad thing simply on the principle of her being a frontliner though, the healer's expression turned indignant and Lee took the words right out of her mouth concerning that matter. Frankly it was a little disconcerting that Calrex would actually think such a thing. Granted she didn't know the man all that well, but based on what little she did know and from opinions of others, she would think he would specifically oppose such thinking.

"I don't care about frontliners, veterans, player killers, or what any of us are. I don't care about defeating bosses, or finishing this game.. Not right now.... My brother.. my best friend.. is dead.. Whether he was murdered or not.. He's gone. I..I'm not going to.. try and get revenge.. I just..." Piera blinked at the ginger's voice, green eyes looking over at her distraught friend before frowning in helpless sadness and staring at the ground as he asked of them, "What has this game turned us into?" For some reason feeling guilty, perhaps at having so much anger inside of her and lashing out at his now former lover.

Zandra's revelation that she had been there when Lowenthal was killed caused Piera's face to go slack from shock before her knuckles turned white around the shaft of her Bleeding Lance, hands shaking from anger. She had just stood there and watched. A very small voice in her head reasoned that she likely would not be able to do much else either, but the hate filled louder voice squashed it down, yelling that she could have tried to distract her at least, talk Ariel out of it on the basis of their supposed friendship, or at the very least message someone to come help! Anything but....nothing.

As Zandra insinuated that if she hadn't armed and armored herself that she would have been attacked by Jomei and herself, possibly Lee as well, Piera huffed with a slight sneer, "You're not worth the effort or the orange cursor. Even if you are protecting that b**** Ariel that killed Lowenthal-hgk!" The end of her sentence was punctuated with a grunt of shock as suddenly she was on the ground, her spear knocked out of her hands. Yet another player appeared before her, but this time, they didn't simply stop in front of her. The dark blur of an assailant picked her up off the ground by the scruff of her cape, choking her slightly as her feet lifted up off the ground, kicking uselessly in the air before her entire body stilled as she felt a blade at her throat. It had been a while since Piera had felt full body bone deep unadulterated fear, but it was instantly recognizable in that moment.

The woman went white as the snow they party of players were surrounded by, her eyes wide behind her glasses as she focused on the face of the person attacking her and shouting at her...and recognized him as panicked green eyes met enraged grey. "H-H-Hik..orku?" She asked with shaky choked voice. They didn't know each other personally, but she definitely recognized him as Ariel's fiancee...or ex-fiancee if the rumors was to be believed.

Glassy eyes blinking as she heard Lee and Jomei's voices, Piera let out a shaky breath, reminded that she wasn't alone, that at the very least if no one else, Jomei and Lee would try their best to protect her. Hikoru's desperately shouted questioned replayed back in her head and she began to put together that he also hadn't known the truth. Only what Ariel had said had happened. Even as he asked the others that surrounded them, he began to realize that she hadn't been lying. And that was hard enough to accept. Though she wasn't particularly endeared to the man given what he had just done, she truly empathized, though more so when he finally took his weapon off of her and let her go.

The alchemist fell to the ground, holding a shaky hand to her neck before glancing up and noticing that the head count had suddenly one more head than she originally remembered, and that wasn't even counting Hikoru. Not knowing at all who the white armored blonde was and not sure she cared anymore as he didn't seem overtly hostile as he tried to get her assailant's attention. Swallowing thickly, Piera stated without any emotional inflection, "The Monument of Life has the name of every single player in SAO. When they die, their name is crossed out and the reason for their death is listed. Lowenthal's death was 'Full Health Duel Loss against Ariel'. And no two players can have the same username...so that only leaves one conclusion." Green eyes glanced up at the new Master of Shadows as she slowly got to her feet with the aid of her lance, knowing that the knowledge wouldn't be easy to accept. But her attention was then solely drawn to Jomei as he dismissed himself from the group, her brow furrowing in concern for her friend.

Before she could even begin following him though, a hand gripepd her wrist and tugged her along and she almost tried to fight it before she saw that it was Lee's and she gladly allowed herself to be lead away from everyone else, though she did glance back one final time. "I don't think I want to odd anymore, let alone even." Her eyes flicked to try and see what he was doing with his menu, but all that she was able to make out was that he was messaging someone, though not who or what was said.

When the couple arrived at Snowfrost, Lee dropped her hand and teleported out without a further word, causing her to frown, hugging herself as she shook her head and ultimately decided she couldn't let Jomei go. Even if she didn't approach him, she just wanted reassurance that he was okay. Or at least as okay as the man could be in such a f***ed up situation.

ID: 83467
CD: 1+1=2 (Bad Item)
LD: 12+1=13
EXP: 1
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83468
CD: 3+1=4 (Good Item)
EXP: 2
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83469
CD: 10+1=11 (Rare Item)
EXP: 5
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83470
CD: 2+1=3 (Bad Item)
LD: 3+1=4
EXP: 1
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83471
CD: 7+1=8 (Uncommon Item)
EXP: 3
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83472
CD: 5+1=6 (Good Item)
EXP: 2
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83473
CD: 1+1=2 (Bad Item)
LD: 11+1=12
EXP: 1
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83477
CD: 1+1=2 (Bad Item)
LD: 7+1=8
EXP: 1
-1 Tier 1 Mat

Shrugging at Nocturn's urging, the alchemist waved goodbye to the NPC couple before following him out of the shop. "Not sure if the quest works like that, but wouldn't hurt to hurry." Even as the dark haired young man began to question her, she was already going through her menu and activating the quest marker. Looking around, the brunette frowned, eyes squinting slightly as if it would help her see any better. "Hmm...well I know at least 'the forest' they're referring to. I've heard other players mention it when talking about this quest. The Forest of Wavering Mists... I uh...haven't really gone there often. ...Because of reasons." Piera looked slightly awkward and hurried to continue with the original subject, "But as for specifics, there's no quest marker telling us exactly where this guy is. So we'll just have to wing it. Let's get this over with, hm?" With a hand on his shoulder, the healer gently pushed him along in the direction that lead out of Delilah Village. "So you got some armor now and that sweet spear. Think you'll be able to take this elf on? Well....and whatever comes between us and those materials." Her expression twisted into one of disgust before a slight shudder ran down her spine. "Maybe we'll get lucky and this thief won't be encamped too deep in the forest..."

Pouting a little playfully at Teion's teasing tone concerning her chosen build and path for SAO, Piera realized she was predictable, but hey, why not stick with what you were good at? She had never been a particularly independent or take charge sort of person, but preferred being able to help others from the sidelines.

Eyebrows raising as a beautifully crafted scythe appeared in the other woman's hands, the brunette eyed it up and down critically with impressed gaze. "It's gorgeous." Piera commented as she met Teion's eyes as the weapon was expanded upon. "A battle axe? Whoa, you can really expand your limits as a crafter as you get higher ranked, huh?" Feeling a slight pang of envy upon hearing that her friend was able to use tier two items now, she then quashed it down with a smile, able to just be happy for her. "Wow, lookit you, the beautiful bad@ss axe wielding blacksmith. The Violet Haired Executioner~" The bespectacled woman lavished with waggling eyebrows. She always enjoyed teasing her friends, especially if it was praising them at the same time.

Glancing up at the cafe they were approaching, Piera nodded approvingly before following her friend into a booth, relaxing on the other side of the table against the cushioned booth. It certainly did feel cooler in here, a nice reprieve from the rest of the floor. Grinning at Teion's pout as she shared her lamentation about the lack of magic, the alchemist questioned with genuine curiosity, "What kind of magic would you like to use? I could see you as like a water mage or something. Personally I sort of see First Aid and Howl and Teleport Crystals as a sort of magic, but I guess that's just wishful thinking." 

Even though it was a fairly casual conversation, Piera just couldn't stop the wide grin on her face, too happy to even properly express at finding someone she knew. And could talk to. She and Lee had kept to themselves for too long after what happened to them. If she would've let fear rule her, she might never have found Teion again. Despite the butterflies in her stomach, the reality of the situation was finally sinking in for the bespectacled woman and the grin dimmed down to a small smile that turned to one of friendly concern. "Tei Tei....jeez I never would've thought that you were playing this game too. I uh...wish I could say wholeheartedly that I'm glad to see you, but..." Shrugging with a sad sort of smile, the brunette finished, "Sorry you're stuck in here too. But putting aside the circumstances, it really is nice to talk to you again. How've you been holding up Tei Tei? I know..." 

How awful this place could be? How cruel people were? How hard it could be just to get by? 

Changing her question mid-sentence, Piera asked with genuine concern, "...Are you okay?"

Rolling her eyes at his 'honey' comment, the brunette then stood on the sidelines and watched as he took a stab (literally) at attacking the monsters for a change. And it was not a bad stab at all. Managing to score a critical hit and knocking his target away, further disorienting it, Piera frowned in an impressed sort of way before it morphed into an amused grin at the armored man's exaltation. With a shake of her head and a chuckle, the alchemist would agree, "That is indeed, how you do. As well as being very visually stimulating." She air kissed towards her love before taking a breath and shrugging, "Here goes nothing."

This time, Piera would forego the use of any sword arts or trying to attack more than one, instead focusing solely on the one that Lee had hit, hoping that the weaker mob would be an easier target. This was sadly not the case. The hit that Lee had scored on it had sent it into a frenzy, bobbing animatedly and avoiding two of her stabs before zooming away, leaving a trail of cold disappointment in its wake. "Welp. That certainly was nothing. At least I'm consistent." She would lean on her spear in a defeated sort of way and proposed, "I think we might make more headway if we just waited for them to beat themselves to death against you. I like that plan."

ID: 83389
CD: 2+1=3 (Bad Item)
LD: 20+1=21
EXP: 1
Material Salvaged

ID: 83392
CD: 5+1=6 (Good Item)
EXP: 2
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83393
CD: 8+1=9 (Uncommon Item)
EXP: 3
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83394
CD: 7+1=8 (Uncommon Item)
EXP: 3
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83396
CD: 9+1=10 (Rare Item)
EXP: 5
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83397
CD: 3+1=4 (Good Item)
EXP: 2
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83398
CD: 8+1=9 (Uncommon Item)
EXP: 3
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83399
CD: 9+1=10 (Rare Item)
EXP: 5
-1 Tier 1 Mat

Scowling at Calrex's words but not the man himself, Piera muttered angrily, "Apparently she was telling everyone that he committed suicide and just left her all of his items. Like he would do that." She had so much more she wanted to say and bring up, but it was too soon, too fresh. Now simply wasn't the time. At the Ultramarine Knight's affirmation of her saying that they would all be there for their ginger friend, she smiled gratefully and nodded, looking back to Jomei.

He was taking it about as she expected. She let him slip from her embrace, seeing that he needed some space. But watching the Irishman come apart was heartbreaking. She never wanted this to happen. They should be celebrating his escape and having a warm drink at the bar right now, catching him up on things and planning action against his captors. Not...this. As the ginger cried out, falling to his knees, Piera's hands flew to her mouth, tears streaming down her face from behind her glasses. She was silent, letting her friend grieve. At least until he started in on himself.

Hands going to his shoulders as she knelt beside him, the brunette shook her head, "Jomei, no. Do you blame Lee and I for getting captured? You can't blame yourself for this. You didn't ask to get captured any more than we did." If anything, he should be blaming her. She hadn't kept up with either of them after they rescued Lee and herself. Simply hid away from the world, terrified to go out again after what happened. Biting her lip, she waited for him to realize this and round on her.

But before he got a chance to, the bespectacled woman looked up as Zandra spoke and she blinked a few times. She hadn't been wearing her armor just a moment ago. Why...? At the hostile look expressed at her informing Jomei of Lowenthal's murderer, Piera stared back reproachfully at her fellow alchemist. What was going on with her? She nearly wished she hadn't asked, even in her mind. Because the reason was practically unbelievable.

Staring at the Berserk Healer in shock as she stood there before them fully armored and armed, Piera had no idea what to do. Jomei stood and her eyes flicked between the two opposing lovers, the brunette slowly standing as well after wiping the cold moisture from her face. She could hardly believe this was happening. Why was Zandra defending Ariel? How could she? It just didn't make any sense. And both Lee and Jomei voiced this, though she personally felt Lee was more to the point with it.

As the Irishman asked if she wanted Lowenthal dead and possibly kill them as well, Piera inhaled sharply, unconsciously taking a step back, glancing worriedly at Lee. She wasn't sure if how on par Jomei was with her, but Lee and herself likely wouldn't survive such an encounter. Though perhaps with Calrex's assistance they would have a better chance. Four against one weren't bad odds, even given the woman's high level.

The throwing of a key seemed highly significant even though she herself didn't know what it was, but the drawing of his weapon was even more so. It prompted her to equip her spear as well, the same one Lowenthal had given her so long ago. But like Lee and Jomei, she simply held herself at the ready, brow furrowed and lips pursed in an expression of frustrated hurt. She may not have been friends with Zandra, but they had both been a part of the Velvet Room and both cared about Jomei. Shouldn't that have been enough? Apparently it wasn't. Lee's words on the matter summed it up nicely in her opinion and it made her heart constrict with a warm passion as she knew that even when they were at odds and currently fighting, they agreed on this and could stand together.

Shaking her head slowly, the brunette stated, "I thought better of you than this Zandra. You may have had to make a choice, but this is not the right one, that's for [censored] sure. Walk away right now and go back to your new lying murderous friend." The older alchemist tried her utmost to sound harsh and intimidating though inside she felt anything but. "And don't think about trying to contact any of us again."

At Lee's answer regarding her question on when to heal him, Piera ran an armored hand down her face with a groan. "Th-Thanks honey. That was helpful." Not.  She'd just have to wing it...or most likely heal him too early. She didn't like seeing him take any damage at all, let alone dip into the yellow. Too many bad memories. But that was why they were here, right? To rewrite them with better ones.

Wincing slightly at the loudness of her fiance's Howl, the brunette watched as the mob deliberated who to attack before the skill forced the decision for them, charging all at once. But unfortunately due to their angle, the three ice creatures all crashed into one another instead of their intended target. "Awww....they tried." Piera sympathized with a chuckle and shake of her head.

Taking advantage of them all being grouped together, the armored woman rushed forward, intent on using her area of effect sword art once more. But just as her glowing trident was about to strike, the trio managed to separate, ensuring that there was nothing to stop Piera from overshooting in her attack and falling straight onto her front in the snow. "Mother [censored] snowflakes." The healer would grumble as she got to her knees and used her spear to stand. Glaring over at Lee she asked dryly, "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"

ID# 83282 results:

 Battle: 2 - Miss!

Ears reddening at her partner's telltale and very much expected laughter at her blunder, the brunette stuck her tongue out at the man as she got to her feet, brushing the snow from her cape and armor. She had just straightened up as she saw him begin to glow green and so got a spectacular image of him Howling at the trio of ice monsters. She could see the skill hit them and immediately take effect, flailing their little crystal...dangly thingies angrily before rushing at the armored man. Her heart constricted slightly as the first two slammed into him.

It was only with the second one that she would notice his familiar. "Whoa...Babette?" She would question the boar for some reason as if it could reply. The little boar's fur seemed pale now. Was that healthy? Or did Lee just have a magical color changing pet? Maybe it had something to do with it's special skill. She needed to concentrate on the fight at hand though. She could ask about Babette after they took care of these things.

Taking advantage of the fact that she was directly behind them and all of their attention was focused solely on her trusty tank, Piera inhaled in concentration, carefully gripping her spear before sprinting forwards like a bullet out of a gun, green energy shooting out of her trident to hit all three of the monsters immediately in front of the weapon's tri blades. "Yeah!" Piera exclaimed in victory before realizing that she now probably made herself a target and started backpedaling. "Uhhh, so honey? At what point do you want me to heal you? And don't say when you're in the red."

At his protestation that his head was too small to remember all of the people she mentions, Piera simply grinned before reaching up to rub her hand against the other side of his head. "I know, that's why I like it! So cute n compact." But when he would act like she was to lowly for him to share his wealth of female friends, the alchemist would gape, resting a hand on her breastplate in over-dramatic offense. "Sharing is caring, Lee. Sharing is caring." As he cracked a smile, she too would let out a light chuckle, always enjoying their jests with each other.

Shrugging at Lee's admission, the alchemist admitted, "It took me a while to find it too. And by then I just assumed I was like the last one to discover it like always." Eyes following Babette's descent rather than where her partner was looking, she was distracted by the tiny boar's cuteness and couldn't resist giving her a pet or two before glancing up at Lee's question. "Hm? Oh. Yyyyeeeess? Why? No idea. But yes, yes they do seem to be...they can't be Avalanche, right? Oh god, what if there's like a swarm of them and all of them make Avalanche?" She was fairly sure that wouldn't be the case, but it was still a horrifying thought.

As the odd monsters floated forwards, Piera squinted and made out their name, "Ice Elementals. Let's get to it honey. Stay with Babette, Jareth."  The griffon cooed before flapping off of her shoulder and resting next to the tiny boar. Twirling her new spear between her hands, Piera stated, "Let's get to it honey!"

Immediately charging into the middle of them to try to attack all three at once, but the middle one deftly floated just high enough to avoid her meager height, causing her to slip in the snow and in an attempt to stop herself, she accomplished what she wanted, but in a way that had her landing flat on her rear, her cape flared out about her as she looked about dazedly. "That didn't happen. Redo!"

Taking the other woman's question as a serious one, Piera glanced up to the right which then wandered left as she began counting fingers as she tallied them up in her head before brightening, "Yer the fifth! And we're on the fifth floor, hah." Snapping her fingers to catch Jareth's attention, the griffon would let out a disgruntled yowl, still lacking in energy due to the heat. But he still managed to flap up to rest on her shoulder, amber eyes sinking closed as he rested. The brunette followed behind Teion with a small understanding smile as she stated that she was holding her own. "Hey, that's all we can do in here. It's good to see that you are. Could be worse."

The pair strolled through Fortaleza on their way to whatever destination the blacksmith chose. Shrugging at her long lost friend's disheartened comment, Piera countered, "Pretty much ninety five percent of us aren't 'nearly as high leveled as we should be'. Don't sweat it. You're doing the best you can under your circumstances I'm sure. Making a business, taking care of yourself, surviving. All good things in my book."

Perking up slightly at the question regarding her own shop, the heavily armored woman stated, "Ah yeah, on the third floor just like I mentioned. This was before I discovered the First Aid skill. You know me and my determination to be support. Well I thought I could support with potions and crystals. Now I'm supporting with potions, crystals and First Aid. Heh, and a little bit of 'peel' too." Referencing an term from the game they had met on as well as the fact that she had bought a weapon with high damage from the woman.

"I went heavy armor." Gesturing to her full suit of armor that she was wearing currently before motioning towrads the purple haired woman. "And of course you know what my preferred weapon is. Other than the first ranks in those, I pretty much put every single skill point I get into First Aid. What about you? You were sort of all over the place, but you were a really good support and mid laner too. Too bad we don't have magic."

Flinching away with a smile as she laughingly received a flick to her forehead, Piera replied, "I thought you might've remembered me mention or talk about her! I just thought it was cool was all. Well...cool that I met her, not cool that we're uh...both here an all." Shrugging slightly awkwardly, the brunette would sigh along with her partner before tilting her head to survey him as he spoke about keeping his items and build.

Letting out a smaller chuckle at his proclaimed need of girl friends, the alchemist nodded. "You have better luck than me on that front anyway. But sure, if she has any friends, I'll pass them along. We'll all go out and paint our nails and braid our hair. Chest hair in your case." Her eyebrows waggled over the frames of her glasses before shaking her head. That would certainly be a sight to see.

Glancing in the direction that he then pointed, Piera nodded. But at Lee's comment, she blinked and stared blankly at him for nearly thirty seconds before realizing he was serious. "But...there is? I mean it doesn't say 'notepad' or anything, but you can bring up something like it. That's if you want to keep organized though. I mean if you just need a quick reminder or to jot something down, you could just send a message to yourself. Here, look."

Piera stepped closer to her love, resting her back against his chest so he could see over the shoulder that didn't have a griffon occupying it as she swiped open her menu and navigated through a few tabs and folders before pointing at a rectangular icon. "That one. I sometimes write my thoughts or notes for my potions and recipes, materials that worked particularly well, stuff like that."

ID: 83195
CD: 7+1=8 (Uncommon Item)
EXP: 3
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83196
CD: 8+1=9 (Uncommon Item)
EXP: 3
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83197
CD: 2+1=3 (Bad Item)
LD: 3+1=4
EXP: 1
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83198
CD: 1+1=2 (Bad Item)
LD: 8+1=9
EXP: 1
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83199
CD: 10+1=11 (Rare Item)
EXP: 5
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83200
CD: 4+1=5 (Good Item)
EXP: 2
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83201
CD: 1+1=2 (Bad Item)
LD: 8+1=9
EXP: 1
-1 Tier 1 Mat

ID: 83202
CD: 10+1=11 (Rare Item)
EXP: 5
-1 Tier 1 Mat

She didn't really know what or who the NIght King was, but she recognized 'Avalanche' easily enough and so nodded in concurrent to Calrex's statement. "Both of those sound Not Good." Sure they might be able to survive the encounter (or at least most of them), but she didn't want to risk it considering how emotionally compromised they were. Or risk running into whoever had held Jomei captive, those bastards.

Green eyes flickered all around them, paranoid about getting flanked or caught by surprise, even with the Ultramarine Knight and Berserk Healer as a guards. The former had taken point but the latter? Head turned to locate the girl before she realized she had fallen behind and seemed very quiet. She must also know of Lowenthal's fate and feel just as torn as the rest of them. It must be even worse what with their relationship. Lowenthal had been like a brother to them both, but he and Jomei had known each other long before Piera had met either of them.

Then she noticed that Jomei had also fallen behind. No, not just fallen behind but stopped walking completely. She froze to a standstill at his posture, so much more tense than just a moment before. At his even and demanding toned question, Piera clenched her jaw so hard that she felt like she was damaging her avatar's teeth. Her eyes immediately darted to Lee, looking to him as always in a tough situation. His response left something to be desired, though she could hardly blame the man. While the four of them had always been friends, he hadn't been nearly as close to the other two as she had.

Lips pursing at Lee's choice of words as he muttered to himself, Piera inhaled shakily and stepped closer to Jomei. Her expression said enough on it's own, but she still felt the need to say it aloud. Face full of regret and grief, the brunette took the Irishman's right hand in both of hers, gripping it gently before saying in a small choked voice, "Nick. He, Lowenthal....Adachi," She swallowed around the lump in her throat before continuing determinedly, "He's dead. He was killed two months ago. In a full health loss duel." There was a pause as the healer debated whether she should tell him the whole truth. She didn't want her friend to rush off in search of vengeance, but he deserved to know everything.

The alchemist's grip tightened on his hand as if to physically anchor him as she finished with tense voice, "Against Ariel." Spitting out the woman's name like a curse before taking a breath to calm herself. Green searched into green as the former guildmates' eyes met, the ones behind glasses swimming in tears, "I'm so sorry. I-I didn't even know how until a few days ago. J-Just don't do anything reckless Nick. He wouldn't want that for either of us. Okay? We have to stick together now." Her right hand left his to rest on his shoulder, gripping it as she pulled him into a tight hug. "You have me and Lee and Calrex and Zandra at the very least. We're not alone."

Watching the recognition dawn on the other girl's face was priceless. For once, she wasn't the first one not to immediately remember something or someone! Grinning from ear to ear now, Piera nodded enthusiastically at the purple haired girl's question regarding her name. "Yup! Piera, Sophia, Sophie, whatever. I decided to go with my middle name on here, something I'd respond to more easily if someone yelled it out...depending on the pronunciation that is." She waved a hand, not sweating the details. Especially since it had been over two years since the two had spoken.

"I didn't recognize your voice at all. I'm terrible with that sort of thing. But I hardly ever forget a username! Something about letters." Inventorying the perfectly crafted spear that she had just bought, the brunette rested a hand on her hip as she asked tentatively, "So...how've, erm." She barely stopped herself from asking the typical, 'how've you been?' question, knowing that there were slim chances that it was good considering where they were currently and instead focused on the present, "How are you? Besides being one of the best blacksmiths around obviously." Attempting a wink and mostly managing the tricky feat.

Glancing around at the other player that had just concluded his business and was leaving, the alchemist asked, "Do you want to go out and talk? If you're not busy that is. I'm sure as one of the top blacksmiths you have plenty of orders." At this point she was teasing her for all this small conversation point was worth, but only until she could get reacquainted with her old gaming friend. Also it was always good to give someone an out if they weren't very socially inclined or simply weren't that into you as you were them. No feelings hurt with little white lies.

Averting her eyes at Shield's groan, trying not to make him more self conscious even though the corners of her mouth still twitched upwards, eventually she couldn't resist commenting, "So cat got your tongue but turtle got your nose it seems." It was lame, but she still nearly bust a rib to keep from laughing at her own pathetic joke.

Trying to sober herself as the more experienced player began his explanation, she caught in her peripheral vision that he was trying to show her something on his menu and so tilted her head, stepping slightly closer to eye over his specs. She had to admit, she was surprised. Not at just his specs but that he was showing her them so openly. Some things weren't visible just via the party interface. Seems Shield was a fairly honest and open man. ...Not that she was exactly a threat to him or anything. Even with his pitiful damage, he could literally 'plan B' her to death. Shaking her errant thoughts out of her head, the healer focused on what he was showing and telling her.

"Jeez, that's insane. Damage and mitigation... Wait...'slot'? I would've thought it was a Unique Skill. But it's an enhancement?" Sure enough, it was on that mask. Made sense once he further explained. It seemed a rare drop. "Whoa....I'm not sure I even want to imagine how hard that quest is... I was thinking of recommending it to my bo-fiance," She corrected herself, feeling her ears warm slightly before continuing with determination, "But uh, I think I'll wait to even mention it until we're both higher leveled."

As the pair approached Snowfrost's safe zone, Piera spoke up, "I'd say if you need a healer, feel free to call on me but uh....pretty sure I would die nearly instantly on anything that you would need healing for. But I'll strive to get better. Still though, if you need anything that I can do for you, just let me know, okay?" Smile full of contentment and gratefulness, the alchemist raised a hand to wave at the older man as she walked towards the teleportation plaza. "Later Shield. Hope to see you around sometime soon. Thanks again! And I'll be sure to message you as soon as I finish with your order!" With that, the brunette finally stopped walking backwards, turning and jogging away.

[Quest Rewards]

- All -

200 Col (400 thread length/2)

- Shield -

Essence of Steel

1 SP (Thread length)

3 T1 Materials

- Piera -

2 SP (1 quest reward, 1 thread length)

Her smile became a little softer and more genuine at Nocturn's gratitude and return smile. She was making a difference. Even if she wasn't fighting on the frontlines just yet. SHe was still helping in her own way. Just like Lowenthal did for her. Running her fingers through her hair as her shoulders relaxed a little, the healer tilted her head in interest as the younger man stated that he already had what sort of armor he wanted in mind. "Oho?" She asked in curiosity before laughing at his eagerness. "Slow down there Speedy Gonzales." Seeing his expression of confusion, she waved a hand dismissively. "Before your time. Or er..." Tilting her head another way thoughtfully as she looked at his facial structure added on, "Or just wrong culture. Either way, not sure about talking to him. But it's worth a shot. Always good to try to resolve things peacefully if possible. Even with NPCs." Shrugging she finished, "Ya never know."