Domarus

Domarus walked down through the first floor, heading to a cottage out in the middle of a field.  It was nighttime, the full moon popping in and out between the clouds, providing light when and where it could.  It was enough for Domarus to see and thus he had no trouble at all.  He was heading to this cottage because he heard of a random quest that had appeared.  And quests granted SP.  That was what he needed.  However he also needed col and he heard that it was possible to retrieve this from monsters.  If the quest was a combat quest he could get himself some suitable col.  He wore his new dragon bone armor that would get him through the first floor.  Since everything besides mini bosses only had around ten damage without a crit, monsters would usually deal only one damage to him, three at best if they got lucky.  The only issue with fighting mobs at the moment was that they could take some time.  Until he reached the next two handed ax rank he was stuck with the weakest sword arts.  It made combat easier of course but it would be faster with more sword arts and energy.  Domarus guessed that it was exactly those facts that made it so hard for a low level player like himself to level up.  Once he gained enough energy, ranks and equipment however he wouldn't be stopped.  He would power level so hard that even the front liners would be amazed.  And as he did so he would gain followers and rise up.  However he needed something to separate him from the trash, from the commoners, and even from the frontliners, though he had heard that some of them already had this.  He needed a unique skill.  And when they came out he needed to be ready.  Therefore he would do all he could to get himself enough col in time.  And once again this led him back to the quest.  Keres walked at his side of course, eager to see her master fight.  As he stepped into the cottage the npc turned out to be two of them:  A man and a woman.

"Please, you need to save our daughter.  She's in the forest, all alone with those villains!"  The quest appeared and Domarus moved out, not bothering to waste time here chatting with foolish NPCs.

Domarus was done retreating.  His energy was up now and now all he needed was an opening.  His mind couldn't concentrate on defending and attacking at the same time however.  He knew what he needed to do.  He stops spinning his blade to deflect the monster and with it moving so fast and not expecting a move like this, it slashes it's tusks hard at him, dealing ten points of damage and flying out behind him, shocked and finding it hard to slow down.  As it did Domarus gripped his ax tightly as the red glow once again mixed with the black aura of his sword art.  By the time the boar turned around it noticed that Domarus seemed different.  He dropped the bored or concentrated act.  He seemed taller.  Stronger.  The red and black aura seemed to grow to the man's body according to the boar's eyes.  And on his face.  Was a grin.  This was the appearance Domarus had when he was certain of victory.  He knew without a doubt he would come out victorious.  He had this appearance in the school after his victory against the bullies.  He had this appearance after he took control of a small company.  And he'd wear this appearance because he was strong.  Strong enough to handle mobs alone.  All he needed was some armor to prevent the slight chance of death when he was soloing.  He began to slowly spin his ax, slowly building up momentum.  The boar wasn't angry or confident now.  In fact it took a step back.  Domarus began to step forward, speeding up his ax a little.  The boar took several more steps back.  Domarus suddenly broke into a charge, his ax spinning so fast it could barely be seen.  The boar squealed and turned around but before it could take a step he released his sword art, sending it crashing down on the mob so hard and fast, that it cracked the very ground and the shockwave forged a small crater creating an explosion of sound.  As the loot menu popped up Domarus accepted it and grinned at his friend.

"Well that took longer than expected!"

ID#  68127  BD:  6  LD:  20  MD:  6

Boar:  0/30

Domarus:  18/60  -><-  0/6

Domarus receives 2 MAT & 150 col

OOC- not much but it's freaking something after all that

@Morgenstern

Domarus nodded as the player introduced himself and saw the familiar and nodded to it with a friendly grin.  A familiar.  He heard that they could improve on player's stats and he knew that it would be important for him to do so.  What kind of familiar though?  He wanted something powerful, a predator, something that couldn't be taken out easily.  And yet he also wanted it to be elusive like himself.  He wondered...  Then he asked Itzal about someone named Ulises.  Ulises?  Domarus knew someone in the real world who was a linguist and he mentioned the word before.  Ulises, Ulises....  Finally he recalled it's meaning.  Wrath, or one full of wrath.  An interesting and very pleasant name for Domarus to hear.  Someone who wanted to role play as a fear striking player then?  Either that or the player didn't know what the name meant and just thought it was cool sounding.  What language was it again?  Domarus thought about it and recalled.  The kid was showing him Spanish then.  Yes that was it.  Ulises was a Spanish name.  He brought himself back to reality as Lis had welcomed Keres to the party.  Keres, though she was acting like his friend instead of servant, subconsciously bowed lightly to Lis before grinning at her.  Domarus heard about the snail and although it did sound stupid he needed all the experience he could get.

"I'm up for a fight.  I need the experience...  Though what I really need right now is col.  Heaps of it.  Around a hundred thousand actually."  One hundred thousand col wasn't enough.  However Domarus figured that he could get the rest of the col with dungeon raids once he got decent armor and a trinket after he got his profession.  He intended to be a artisan since the world seemed low on active ones at the moment.  He wouldn't just make buffed items or jewelry however.  He would make not only earrings, piercings, bracelets, rings, necklaces, medallions, emblems, and trinkets, but he'd also give players tattoos.  He figured that last one would get him plenty of col.  He began to walk to the teleporter, Keres close behind him.

Domarus noticed the girl decided to make an attempt to ignore him.  He wondered how long the maiden could keep it up.  As he gazed around he saw the waiter bring a lemonade in her general direction and decided to take a look at the menu himself.  He opened it up and despite the dullness in the place, it seemed that they had food similar to a restaurant.  He scanned the meals and noted that there was much more than he expected, and much of it more fancy and seemingly tasty.  From Italian foods to American burgers.  They even had every drink and shake imaginable.  Domarus wondered why this shop didn't get many customers.  And as usual he began to calculate ways it might be flawed, whether it be the generated staff, noise, bad customers that would come in from time to time, the quality or quantity of the food.  He ruled out pricing and waiting time as they both seemed dependable and decent.  The waiter came over and asked for his order and he said he would still think about it but in the meantime he ordered a small glass of wine.  He knew this game prevented negative effects and therefore he probably wouldn't get drunk, but even if he could it took a very large amount of alcohol in the real world to do so.  His body had become resilient and he did so for a tactical reason.  After making himself immune to alcohol he would be able to have drinking contests or go to a party where people could get drunk.  After they had some glasses they would become drunk and he himself would not, though he'd make it appear as though he were.  As they continued to drink he would then interrogate them while they didn't know what they were saying and get information he needed.  He needed to figure out if it was possible to get drunk in this game and if so, then he'd need to make plans.  The wine was placed at his table and he thanked the waiter before sighing and leaning against his seat, not taking a sip yet.

Domarus watched Alisa attack and miss the monster again.  It's face snapped toward her and swung it's tusks at her but overall nothing had happened.  It was just irritated that she got between it and the annoying player who wouldn't give up.  When she was out of the way the monster turned back to Domarus and gestured for him to charge.  Domarus cocked an eyebrow and had a suspicion.  He grabbed his ax and handled it for a moment before charging toward the monster.  As he did it stood completely still which meant that whatever it had planned would be a last minute movement, requiring him to watch for any sign of a movement.  When he was too close for it's comfort it's front legs bent, signifying that it was going to jump to the side.  Domarus prepared a swing and made a guess as to where it would jump and swung to it's right, his left.  He was correct.  The human mind usually chose right over left most of the times and seeing as how Kayaba couldn't develop every individual boar with it's own preference he probably just gave them common thinking.  And common thinking was what he was an expert in as it allowed him to manipulate others.  The boar realized it's mistake too soon and suffered a strong hit that did minimal damage of course, but the force of it pushed it back even further.  With the monster being pushed back so much, the only thing that would make this perfect were if there were a cliff of some sort.  Then they could just toss it off the edge and be done with it.  However that would not happen as luck wasn't on their side.  Skill was needed, the knowledge of when to strike and when to back off.  With the monster having been knocked back again, Alisa should be able to hit it this time.

ID#  68109  BD:  8  MD:  2

Domarus:  50/60  -><-  3/6

Boar:  96/100

Domarus heard Esther speak defensively and how she was just frustrated that his servant wasn't, well, serving.  He nodded to Esther, completely understanding her reasoning.  His servant should be doing at least as much work as he was, if not more of the minor things.  He figured that she would be doing most of the material gathering while he would focus on combat and his plans involving other people.  She would also do maid like things such as maintain his shop, cook meals, etc.  Things he couldn't be bothered with.  This he realized would give him more time to train and grind and other ways to earn col.  

"I agree.  You hear that Keres?  No more slacking off for you."  Keres paused her searching and looked up with a pleased smile.

"Nothing else would satisfy me master."  As she returned her attention to her gathering he knew that she was lying to keep Esther sane.  As far as Keres was concerned, anyone friendly enough with Domarus as Esther was, was her master or mistress as well.  And unless her master or mistress was going to punish her she did not wish to displease her.  He then heard Esther mention a competition and he turned to her with renewed interest with an eyebrow cocked.

"I never turn down a competition, no matter how unfair it may be.  Bring it on Esther."  He grinned before searching for a material he could use.  He may have Keres and himself, but Esther had a skill that amplified her ability to detect and collect items or players.  It would most likely be in her favor despite that they were even right now, and thus the unfairness.  However Domarus knew there was a chance and no bets were placed so there would be nothing lost.  Nothing to lose and much to gain.  Just the way he liked it.  He found nothing on his end and didn't bother checking Keres as she would probably boast to him, hoping for some kind of reward later.

ID#  68108  LD:  9

Domarus listened as Esther introduced the man who was obviously Lycan and talked about how he helped her with that potion.  When she mentioned her helping Domarus test out potions, he mentally made a note to make her swear never to mention that to anyone else again, for multiple reasons.  For one he couldn't be associated with Mari at all, especially this early in the stage.  When Lycan looks away to ask everyone if they wish to go for a swim Domarus leans in like lightning to whisper in her ear.

"I'd appreciate it if you didn't say anything else on the matter, I'll explain after."  When Lycan looked back Domarus would appear to have done or said nothing.  Esther placed her index finger on Domarus and mentioned that he didn't have any swimwear and he grinned at her.

"Don't think for a second that just because I don't have swimwear that it won't stop me from taking a dive Esther.  I'll go in when you guys do."  It was after this he went and talked to Beat and Alisa, as well as pushed the man Itzal into the water.  After a good laugh he walked back to the group and waited for Esther and Lycan to approach the water.  While he did so he scanned the area to keep his bearings.  He always liked to know what was going on.  Alisa was walking to the water while the boy Beatbox was refraining by what seemed to be lack of proper clothes.  Itzal was now with Mina in the water and appeared to be discomforted, either by the cold or embarrassment, or both.  The girl Rin seemed extremely uncomfortable but there wasn't much he could do there.  He walked over to Beatbox and slapped a friendly hand on his back with a grin.

"Come on Beat what do you say?  Let's go for a dive!  Don't worry about the clothes, just unequip them, equip them again and they'll be dry!  No need to fret!"  As he spoke he proceeded to gently bring Beat over to the water, in the direction Alisa had walked so he could stay a bit more comfortable.  Or more uncomfortable he didn't care.  He wanted his appearance to be humorous and jolly in front of these players.  That was the easiest sort of person to want to befriend and it worked every time.  Unless the others were cold-hearted or bored like in their own way but he didn't think anyone was that.  Though Lycan seemed suspicious of him.  He would need to be careful.

Before Esther could reply two more individuals came over.  One of them was Itzal, a man he met a little time ago who was relatively short.  He came in a different outfit than last time, trading the dark intimidating armor for something more classic or casual.  However before he came far he stopped and Domarus followed his gaze to Esther and Rin then looked back in time to see the redness.  Oh don't tell me he thought.  As Itzal turned around to leave he fought desperately to hide the laughter that was about to burst out.  This player, thus supposed leader, was embarrassed!  He watched as the girl Mina appeared from the lake.  Had she been here the entire time?  He observed as the girl approached the girl who's name turned out to be Rin before walking over to Itzal and talked to him about something he couldn't here, before attempting to lure him into a chase with her as she dashed toward the lake once again.  Then he heard someone talking to him and turned around, extremely pleased to see that Alisa was here.  Excellent.  His interactions with everyone else here should solidify her trust with him even more.  He grinned and shook her hand.

"Why hello Alisa!  I'm so glad to see you here!"  He saw the player Beatbox arrive and Alisa turned seemingly excited to see him and embraced him in a hug.  Domarus watched for a moment as Beatbox blushed and as he heard the boy's reply he suddenly knew exactly what was going on.  Not only did this girl have a mentor, but she also had a boyfriend.  This meant that he would need to be extra careful as he worked to his goals.  After he broke Alisa and reforged her anew he  would need Beat to be on friendly levels with Domarus so he decided to befriend him as soon as possible.  Not to mention that a relationship would be healthy for Alisa and give her a stronger drive and purpose, which Domarus needed from her.  He walked over and clapped a hand on Beatbox' shoulder.

"Good to see you again Beat!  Now I think I'll leave you two lovebirds alone for a bit k?"  He had whispered the last part and winked afterward before moving to the man whom Mina had interacted with.  Without a warning he placed a large hand on the man's back and began to pull him along toward the girl.

"Come on Itzal enjoy yourself!"  He gave the player an almighty shove toward the lake, effectively pushing him directly after Mina and gave a hearty laugh.

OOC- Man, I'm not having good luck.  Foregoing another turn

Domarus and the boar finally charged.  The boar leaped at Domarus and he slid to his knees, bending his back behind him so that he could avoid the attack.  When the boar landed it turned sharply and lashed it's tusks out at Domarus while he in turn swung his battle ax at the monster, deflecting it's tusks with the blade.  The monster continued to strike at Domarus and he continued to swing his battle ax in circles, deflecting it's attacks with amazing speed.  It would have looked more impressive if the opponent was wielding a sword instead of tusks but he didn't care at this point.  The battle was getting heated and the monster was obviously more intelligent than he gave it credit for.  It even tried to pull off a maneuver that he'd expect from a player, attempting to position it's tusks in a way to grab and yank his battle ax from his hands but he pushed the handle forward and spun it so the butt of his weapon hit the monster and it fell back for half a second before charging in again.  His weapon spun faster and faster and his face constricted with concentration, a soft growl emanating from him as he attempted to force his way past his opponent's attacks and land another hit.  It may be getting heated but he was about to end this once and for all.

Domarus:  28/60  -><-  2/6

Boar:  3/30

It started when Domarus heard about a festival being held on floor eleven.  At first he didn't care and moved on.  Then he heard that the front liners would be there.  He hesitated at that point.  Forwards he thought about how he'd need to get a good idea of what these powerful players were like and start adjusting his plans early on if need be.  Not only that but maybe there would be a decent follower or two at the festival he could sway into his grasp.  Domarus turned to Keres who was ever following him.

"We're going to floor eleven, stay close."  Domarus turned around and suddenly he could almost feel her pressing against him with her closeness.

"As you command master," she said with a very pleased tone.  He paid no mind and walked over to the teleport pad and the two of them warped away.  When they arrived at the floor, Domarus could see the festivities really easily.  He looked around and noticed with curiosity that this was an Italian town, sort of like old Italy or in roman times, though with a modern touch to it.  He shrugged as it didn't really interest him that much and moved on to where the crowds were.  He pulled up his knight in shining armor act and smiled and greeted everyone there.  He was wearing his dragon bone armor so he didn't look like a complete wannabe noob to the front liners.  Progress was progress after all.  As he walked through the crowds he took note that most of these people were here for the festivities, and those seeking the front liners seemed to be wanting autographs was all.  Wishing he could grunt with annoyance he continued to move through the crowds, ignoring the entertainment set up for the players visiting.  He cared not for small features like that.  As he scanned the area his eyes fell onto a familiar player.  Could it be that Arc wanted to see the front liners as well?  For what purpose he could not help but wonder.  He walked up to Arc with a smile.

"Hey Arc!  You here to see the front liners as well?"

Summary

Domarus receives 2 sp, 200 col and dragon bone armor (9 MIT)

Arc receives 2 sp and 200 col

As Domarus walked over to the town gate he heard a rush of footsteps behind him.  Naturally with all the players having seemingly gone to sleep or something he turned around to see who it was.  Unfortunately he saw nothing.  He could have sworn though.  He turned around, hoping to check it out.  That's when the rain started to come down.  At first it was steady rain which he was perfectly fine with.  However as he walked, each second it became harder and harder, coming down in buckets.  In the end he could barely see anything.  He didn't mind rain at all, but when it blinded him it was another matter entirely.  Growling he lunged himself into the nearest building.  He rubbed the water out of his eyes so he could see again and took note of his surroundings.  It was a nearly empty tavern and the waiter was on him so quickly he was guessing they were either usually out of business, or wanted to get col faster than others could.  He understood as he desperately needed col for his own plans.  Domarus took the menu and thanked the man before seating himself down by the tavern wall.  He placed the menu down and sighed, looking out at the rain and mentally cursing it.  Once again he couldn't go out and train, let alone gather col.  He placed his ax in his inventory as he wouldn't be needing it now and proceeded to rub his eyes as he considered what to do.  He couldn't go back to the inn or anywhere else for that matter, with the rain being so freaking hard.  So all he could do was get comfortable and find some way to pass the time.  He scanned the area within a second and didn't stare at anything.   Even the player he just spotted.  He gazed at the decorations for a bit as he decided that this was most likely the player whom he heard walking away.  He would let her make the interactions.  Thus far all he had shown was slight disappointment and tiredness.  If she said or did nothing he would figure out how to proceed.

OOC- Forestalling an action to allow energy to recover

Domarus watched as Alisa once again missed the boar.  At this point the creature didn't even bother looking at her anymore.  He knew that should fire her up enough to get a hit...  Or enough to blind her and never land a single strike.  Either way he still had it's attention.  The monster charged him and he knew he wouldn't be able to take many more hits from this creature.  So he decided to evade and regenerate.  At the last moment he step sided and let the long handle of the weapon slide out so as to trip the monster.  As it rolled into a nearby tree Domarus plunged the large ax into the ground and walked leisurely over to it.  When the boar recovered it snorted and charged again.  Domarus had this all under control.  He didn't even side step, just twist his body enough to avoid the monster.  The creature kept running for a bit then stopped, a little confused at what just transpired.  It turned around and saw him waiting.  The creature charged again and Domarus once again twisted ever so slightly to avoid getting damage.  The monster's confusion was turning into rage as it charged again and again before switching to slashing it's tusks at him, which he would back up and curve his body when necessary, avoiding it's attacks before finally grabbing a hold of it's tusks.  The creature's eyes widened before he through it back with all his force.

Domarus:  50/60  -><-  3/6 energy

Boar:  97/100

Domarus watched as two figures approached the area.  One of them was a girl who seemed extremely sheepish and shy and wore your typical bikini.  As she approached she greeted both Lycan and Domarus, who had hoped to avoid attention until he was ready to approach.  Domarus nodded with a friendly grin to the player, keeping up his friendly 'knight in shining armor' pretense.

"Hello miss!  How are you this fine day?"  Seeing the girl in a bikini made Domarus realize that he had no swimwear.  If he were to sway others into befriending him he'd need to interact as much as possible.  He could use false embarrassment as well as humor if the situation went in that direction though.  It seemed the chips were falling in place.  All he needed to do was place his bets and win some potential followers.  He then watched as Esther approached, her attire completely different than normal.  He saw her walk up and hug Lycan, seeming to try and tease him.  Domarus didn't expect this sort of action from Esther.  Was she a totally different person with this sort of outfit?  If so she and Keres shouldn't go to the beach together or there would be doomed men.  Domarus shook his head as he knew he had a lot to learn about this pink haired girl.  Domarus pushed himself off and made his way over to the two players.

"Hey Esther!  Glad you could come."  He grinned widely to her and stood in front of the pair.  Domarus was almost certain everyone would look ridiculous before the day was done.  Particularly himself.  

"I suppose you could finally introduce me to your friend Lycan!"

OOC- Foregoing an action

Domarus watched the boar struggle to escape the branch of the tree for a while before it shattered.  The monster struggled to it's feet, looking all around wildly for Domarus until it locked eyes on him.  He just stood there and stared at it waiting for it's move.  Surprisingly the boar didn't charge.  It stood there staring for a moment and began to slowly circle Domarus.  Confused and shocked Domarus joined the boar in it's circling.  They stared down at each other, both considering what the other might do.  The boar was pissed yes but it had finally fallen into low health or the red zone, meaning that it would now work on different functions.  The boar was calculating Domarus' previous actions, his current stance and movements now, and was attempting to decipher what Domarus would do next.  Domarus was similarly processing through most of the possibilities that the boar could attempt.  Domarus came out with multiple paths:  Deception where it fainted an attack only to strike a different way, and depending on how smart the game gave this AI in red health would determine how well the deception was pulled off.  Another was a simple charge hoping Domarus would be expecting something else.  As he went through possibilities the boar did something similar.

Domarus:  28/60  -><-  1/6

Boar:  3/30

@Morgenstern

Domarus watched with a pleased feeling as the woman turned to him and reacted with total shock.  Good.  He had a strong impression on her.  She seemed to be one of the few who had an impression on his size thus far.  There were a few others but not many.  He heard her tell Domarus that the kid was alright but he was not.  Then the kid spoke up.  This child was hopeless.  Domarus shook his head with a chuckle while restraining himself from tapping the boy on his head and correcting his stupidity.  This kid won't last.  He'll die at some point.  However this woman might actually succeed in protecting him.  However he'll need to learn a lesson when it came to danger first.  And either way if the woman was a suitable follower then the kid would be an extremely essential gateway to her.

"You may be brave kid but you need to be brave with a good dose of caution."  He let out a light laugh after this even though he was dying inside having to deal with children now.  Esther was innocent enough but this kid.  He mentally shook his head as he couldn't bare to imagine just how stupid or ignorant this player was, if he could even be called that.  Domarus doubted the kid knew the first thing about any video game other than the power button or running around aimlessly.  What he was truly interested was the woman's skills.  She looked like she was fit for combat rather than material gathering.  He turned to the woman.

"You do this often?  Walk outside each day with the kid and help pick berries?  Or do you fight as well?"  Domarus was now itching for a fight, now that another player was with him.  He wasn't that high a level unfortunately, and he didn't have any armor, but his weapon allowed him to deal decent damage with what energy he had.  He needed to level up swiftly though so energy wouldn't be a problem.  However he couldn't level up without training.  And he couldn't train properly without armor.  He couldn't get armor without collecting materials as he needed every.  Solitary.  Piece of col he could gather.  There was something coming he was told, and it was deathly expensive.  So he needed to rack up the efforts and get going, or find a very generous donor. 

OOC-  Oh?  Well then I'll need to have him work on his combat just a little until he gets some followers.  Heh heh

Domarus knew he had the energy now.  All he needed was a good shot to crit this sucker with his sword art and finish it off.  However that was easier said than done.  The monster may be an idiot and the worst fighter he had ever seen but currently all of it's stats besides health were stronger.  Though health wasn't nearly as good as MIT it seemed.  If the boar's MIT wasn't so high he could one shot it here and now.  Unfortunately that wouldn't happen.  Still, if he missed his energy would be lost and his chance gone.  He began to think as this was of course, a gambling game.  He could either strike the boar now and work off the last bit of health bit by bit, or take a chance.  However Domarus didn't feel like taking a chance like this in front of this stronger player.  It might seem like an idiot move for someone of his level.  Therefore there was only one thing left to do.  He slid the ax from the tree, it's pulsing glow emanating once in his hands.  The boar narrowed it's eyes as it knew the player was done taunting him and wished to end this game of theirs.  It scratched the ground with it's hoof while Domarus strode over at an even pace, his weapon relaxed in his hands.  The feeling it gave him.  To know he was in control.  It was wonderful.  He saw the monster charge and decided to let this fight get interesting by letting it hit him.  As it's tusk grazed his right arm, he swung the blade like lightning, engulfed in a black aura from his sword art, and knocked the boar into another tree, snapping the trunk and watched the tree fall onto the boar before shattering.  Now the boar was pissed and wasn't going to stand for any funny business.  This is where the climax came in.

ID#  67963  BD:  8  MD:  8

Domarus:  28/60  -><-  0/6 energy

Boar:  3/30  <base 6 - whirlwind - -5 mit = 7 dmg>

I better get col once I kill it

OOC- So all of a sudden Domarus appears shady eh?  Do share what Jonathan is able to see past his mastered disguise.  Foregoing attack again

Domarus evaded the boar again and again, driving it further to aggravation.  The monster charged recklessly over and over again, and at this point Domarus placed his hands in his pockets.  He saw the other player becoming extremely bored and mentally grinned as he decided this would be an excellent practice in patience for the man.  Domarus would dodge out of the way just in time, feeling the wind of the force of the boar.  If it had more common sense it could have channeled that anger and aimed better, possibly landing another crit.  As it was the thing was stupid and when it came for him again he moved out of the way, allowing it to run into a tree again.  However this time the trunk of the tree cracked and the large structure slowly started to fall down and the boar and Domarus stared at it for a little bit.  A few seconds after the tree stopped moving after contact it shattered into pieces.  The boar looked at him as if to say 'your fault'.  Domarus shrugged that he didn't care and the boar charged him again.  Domarus rolled his eyes as the thing would never learn and grabbed it's tusks with his bare hands.  Once again it appeared dazed before looking up at him.  Domarus' face was expressionless as he tossed the monster onto the other side of the field where it proceeded to wander around looking like it was drunk even though it was just dizzy.  He felt his energy replenish.  He just needed a good solid chance is all.

@Morgenstern

Domarus:  38/60  -><-  2/6 energy

Boar:  10/30

Domarus was getting ready to message the player Arc so that he could get started on a quest that would ultimately gain him some free armor.  He didn't have the materials to purchase anything at the moment and he desperately needed as much col as he could get as he needed over one hundred thousand before long.  Something was coming and he intended to seize it with all haste.  The problem was that he didn't know when it would come and thus he needed to pretend like it could happen any second.  He couldn't lag behind any longer.  Once the col was his he could slow down a bit and focus on level grinding at a more peaceful pace.  He was about to head out of the town when he received a message.  He cocked an eyebrow.  Who on earth would message him?  The only person he could think of was Esther but she had been away for a while.  He pulled up the inbox and saw a name that sounded familiar.  He snapped his fingers when he recognized it as the player Esther said she encountered.  He read the message and while he had no intentions to just lie around doing nothing, he grinned as he saw this as the perfect opportunity not only to meet some of the more powerful players, hopefully some who would be willing to lend some col, but possibly find some suitable followers, players to manipulate.  He had been lucky thus far so why should it run out?  Still he never did anything without a plan.  Luck had never been on his side until now and yet he was practically a king in the real world.  The luck only made his progress run faster is all.  Domarus turned to Keres, his servant/only friend.

"Wait for me at the inn.  Don't go anywhere else and try not to trick another player into beating you up this time ok?"  He made his way over to the warp panel and teleported to the second floor.  He pulled up the message and after knowing where it was went over and leaned against the tree a little ways off and shielded by the scenery.  He wanted to see who else would arrive.  Being the first to arrive would not be the best approach to something like this.  Then he had a thought that might help him with gaining followers and sent a message to Esther.

Quote

@Esther

You should have received the message from Lycan as well.  Want to hang out with him?

Domarus watched as Arc paused and pulled out a...  Cigarette?  They had those in this game?  He'd need to find out where if that were the case.  He listened to Arc talk about how there would be no point and how their body's would decay, etc. etc.  Domarus wasn't serious when he asked the question, though he was satisfied that the player assumed he was.  It was good to see he wasn't losing his edge.  The player continued on about every way players would die other than pking or death by mob.  Yada yada he thought.  Only a madman would drop everyone in this game just to die, and no madman could invent all this.  If he had his own personal army who was willing to sacrifice so many people then yeah it was possible but Kayaba didn't sound like a madman either.  And if he really was mad and wanted them all dead then he most likely wouldn't have hidden his features when he made the announcement.  There was no point in debating it.  They would get out.  And yet Arc seemed perfectly comfortable with the aspect of death.  Domarus knew however that unless he had a much stronger drive, Arc wouldn't try too hard to survive.  Domarus would need to give him that drive.

"You don't happen to have another one of those do you?"  He asked.  He listened to Arc talk about how he didn't like setting up plans just to let his expectations fall.  So he was the opposite eh?  Domarus didn't set one plan.  He set many hundred for a single goal, and then set three plans for each of those.  He set up the field so there was no possible way things wouldn't go the way he wanted to.  It was a satisfying feeling to see all the pieces fall into place.  He made a gentle smile to his friend.

"I understand.  Thanks for the talk, it's been enlightening.  I guess I'll pick up my gear and head out to start grinding then.  I'll see you some other time I suppose.  I'll catch up to your level soon Arc!  Don't get slack in training!"  He finished with a grin and a wave before walking into the blacksmith.  Keres looked up expectantly and made a sarcastic grin at him.

"So how did it go master?"  

"Progress Keres.  And progress takes time.  Grab my armor.  It's about time we start really leveling."

OOC- Domarus is foregoing an action to regenerate energy.

The monster kept running, assuming the player was still on it's tiny tail.  It's eyes were wide with panic until it noticed something.  The player had barely done any damage in the last few attacks.  It realized that the player could only use so many strong attacks and turned around, it's confidence rising once again.  However it stopped after turning around as the player had stopped not long after it had began running, therefore creating a large space in between them.  Somehow the boar was able to see the player cock an eyebrow as his ax rested on his shoulder.  The guy not only looked bored, but he seemed to be mocking the boar's intelligence.  The boar was silent and unmoving for a moment before suddenly bursting with rage and charging Domarus.  As the player watched the monster approach he decided not to attack the boar and instead save up his energy for another sword art that would finish the monster off once and for all.  So as the monster made it's way over he threw the weapon into a very thick tree, allowing it to stay there and turned to the boar.  At the last second he spun out of it's way and as the boar came around again he spun away again, using the most minimum body movements he could to dodge the creature.  He may be bored and frustrated, but he was patient.  That came from years of mastering persuasion and manipulation.  It was a skill he was very much proud of.  And when the time was right he would make the boar pay the price.

Domarus:  38/60  -><-  1/6

Boar:  10/30

@Morgenstern

Domarus listened as the man talked about mercenary work and how it was a long road.  He made no comment on the 'us' portion but Domarus didn't expect him to.  He guessed the player would take time to agree to any sort of partnership whatsoever as he seemed to be used to working alone.  Domarus was used to commanding others while keeping everything in order.  Of course he was also used to taking his time to work his way into other's minds and hearts until they were ready to manipulate.  The same would be with Arc, though Domarus didn't expect to need to manipulate him much.  The only thing he reckoned would be persuading him to work for him more than other players.  If it was power he wanted it was power he would receive should he follow Domarus.  He heard Arc tell him that all he wanted was for him and every other player to get out of the game as soon as possible.  Ugh.  So that was it?  No personal goals or desires?  That not only sounded like a boring life but a pointless one.  What about after they got out huh?

"You mean there's nothing you have interest in other than getting strong and getting out?  What happens if you aren't able to achieve strongest?  What happens if we reach the end and 'surprise!  You're really staying for life?'  And what if you get out of this world eh?  Any goals then?"  Domarus refused to believe that this powerful didn't have some other goal hidden beneath that tough guy look.  Someone he cared for.  Something he desired.  Everyone had a drive.  Those without one had no purpose and typically committed suicide.  Not only did Domarus need to avoid that, but he knew this player had something he was hiding.  If he didn't reveal it today that was fine but he would learn the truth eventually.  As he asked his question they were drawing near to the blacksmith's house.  Certainly his servant would be there awaiting to hear how it turned out.

Domarus shrugged.  The girl was had the right to believe what she wished.  And it was true that strange and unusual things caused others to meet one another, and stay together.  He only hoped the same would happen here.  Domarus heard Esther reply to Keres with a comeback of her own.  He knew what Keres was thinking.  And indeed he was right.  Keres grinned and was going to talk on the topic of them being lovers when Domarus turned to her with a warning look that made it clear not to push the matter any further.  When Esther gave her a disapproving look Keres' smile switched from sarcastic to satisfaction.  She was very pleased with this Esther that had a sense of command about her.  She bowed slightly.

"Of course mistress, my apologies.  I shall get started immediately."  As she went to start looking Domarus watched her go before turning to Esther.

"I have to be honest that look you gave her might have been the best move in this situation.  She's an odd person, and I haven't learned all her quirks.  Except what you've already seen of course.  I know her history though and a portion of why she enjoys punishment and authority.  The rest is a mystery for me to solve."  Domarus watched as Esther tried and failed to get her hands on a black ore up high.  He smiled at her as she tried again, and failed, turning to Domarus who was taller than her and he chuckled as he walked over, reached up and slid it out of place.

"Well what do you know?  No explosion, stink, or disintegration.  It must be my lucky day...  You said you loved the stars.  Do you have a favorite constellation?"  In truth he had no idea what constellations there were.  He simply wanted to get the conversation going again and hopefully learn a little more about Esther.  He didn't like it when someone knew everything about him but he barely knew anything about them.

ID#  67950  LD:  16

+1 MAT

Domarus heard Jonathan's comment and saw out of the corner of his eyes a golden aura.  Heh.  Of course it was opposite of Domarus'.  The guy was a literal knight in shining armor while Domarus was in truth a mastermind who intended on ruling a good amount of players in Aincrad.  With his skills in manipulation, Mari's potions, and the power he would gain as well as future follower's own influence, he would have no issues whatsoever achieving his goals.  When Jonathan spoke up Domarus raised a hand, halting both the player and the boar.

"No!  Not yet!  Let's see how long this overaged, rotting carcass of pork chops and I can fight before I need your help!"  The boar had been confused but stopped when Domarus raised his hand in such a fashion to stop the other player from helping him.  Was it arrogance?  Anger?  The boar didn't know as it's brain was about as small as a pinhead.  However it did know when it was being insulted.  The monster once again went into a raging fit and charged the player.  Domarus refocused his attention and flourished his weapon before charging the creature.  The boar tried to confuse Domarus this round by moving around in no particular pattern but Domarus didn't follow it.  He stared straight ahead and allowed the boar to remain in the overall section of his vision.  When the boar was close enough it would charge for real.  And soon enough it did.  It stopped the pattern and tried to lunge at him from the left and he swung his weapon to slash at it's belly, drawing a loud screech of pain as it flew through the air behind him.  He turned around and lunged at it again but it scrambled to it's feet and ran away from him.  He didn't bother chasing the monster as he needed to recover his energy.

ID#  67914  BD:  8  MD:  4

Domarus:  38/60  -><-  0/6

Boar:  10/30

OOC- don't jump in until I absolutely need it.  I want that col

As domarus reached the front gates he he paused and observed two figures.  One of them was crouching but seemed to be around the same height as himself.  Odd he thought as it was highly unusual for a female to be this tall.  He then noticed the little boy in front of her and let out a grunt.  What were these kids thinking jumping into an MMO like this?  Did their parent's realize that they would be eaten alive by online players or what?  Either way the more he thought about it the more he realized that if the woman was a strong player, she could make an excellent general.  If she was a tank that would be even better as he seemed to have two potential dps generals already.  If he could find a healer as a general as well as a scout, then he'd have the set and would simply need to collect followers.  And he knew that if he could sway this child, he'd sway the woman as she seemed to be very attached to him.  Suddenly the boy dashed off into the forest and the woman chased after him.  Domarus shook his head at the kid's stupidity.  He gave the kid three days tops before he ran into a monster and was eaten alive.  Sighing he realized that he'd need to defend the child to keep his potential general close.  He kept up his gentle appearance and broad smile and walked out of the gate, a new goal in mind.  He approached the two players and saw the boy try and fail to pick berries.  So the kid was as good as Domarus was eh?

"Awful brave to run out like that kid!  Might want to be a little more careful!"