Domarus

Domarus watched as the girl drew her rapier and his eyes focused on the blade, time seeming to slow.  It was a dark blade, with black wings at the hilt and a red blade that seemed wickedly hungry for blood.  The black wings made Domarus think of nothing but a fallen angel.  He then moved on to her eyes, watching as she seeked any opening the boar would make.  He turned to the boar and as he suspected, it continued to stare at them.  Then it seemed she lost her patience and charged the boar, attempting to strike it but with it watching her every move managed to move out of the way in time.  Still it's focus was on her now and it turned to her rather than Domarus.  He saw it begin it's preparation to charge and he flexed his muscles as he tested the ax' weight in his hands.  The weight was balanced but it was also very very heavy, allowing for powerful strikes that could knock the foes around.  He knew the boar had way too much MIT for him to do much more than scratch it but he would still give it his all.  The boar finally made it's charge and rushed at Alisa, it's tusks ready to pierce her.  Domarus however slammed the butt of his ax' hilt into the ground, creating a slight dent and making a large cracking thump that produced enough sound to halt the boar in it's tracks and turn to him.  Domarus grinned and the two charged.  It soon became a game of chicken and as Domarus began to spin his huge black two handed ax around and around, it's dark red glow trailing the blade as it spun in circles at his side, Domarus grinned wickedly and the boar soon lost the game, attempting to swerve to the right and escape.  Domarus however wouldn't let his prey go that easily and with the momentum his weapon had received threw it toward the boar.  The blade spun in a vertical form and slashed across the boar's backside, causing it to squeal with pain.  As it turned around Domarus jumped off of it's injured back and grabbed his ax, landing and rolling on the ground prepared for another strike.

ID#  67714  BD:  6  MD:  4

Domarus:  60/60  -><-  6/6 energy

Alisa:  200/200  -><-  18/20 energy

Boar:  99/100

Domarus heard a familiar voice and smiled before he even opened his eyes.  He saw Esther run up to him greeting him cheerfully like her usual self.  As she seemed herself beside him he sat down as well, wondering if he should put his arm around her or if that would make her embarrassed at what happened before hand.  He liked her company and unlike his servant, who seemed to enjoy his touch in a totally different manner, Esther had seemed to show that she enjoyed the comfort of his embrace in the more gentle way.  The chain still dangled around her collar but by this time he was used to it, despite that he hated it as it represented restraint and the lack of power.  To be completely void of power, to be someone's pet.  He shuddered to think of what that was like.  No he was the opposite.  He would never stand for such a position.  That was why he was so good at what he did.  She told him how she had grown stronger and told him that she had directed her skills toward searching.  While that would be useful it was not the reason he had invited her.  He smiled at her.

"That may be useful but I didn't exactly ask you here for help.  I wanted your company.  And I wanted to know what happened after that day.  How've you been?  Anything bad or good?  And how's Mari treated you since then?"  Domarus would not stand for Mari treating Esther badly after his arrival, though he doubted she would.  While he had watched her tug harshly on the leash she didn't do anything cruel like Domarus' punishments.  And he also wanted to know if she was still upset or embarrassed in any way from the incident, both before and after her collapse.  While he asked he spotted a purple flower and picked it, examining it for a little while before deciding that it would be perfect for what he had in mind.  He could turn this into ink with ease after some practice.  He placed it in his inventory before returning his focus on Esther.

ID#  67713  -><-  LD:  17

@Esther

Domarus stood on the second floor breathing in the warm air.  His servant Keres was practicing material gathering so that she would be at the same level as he was.  His black battle ax hung on his back, ready to strike anything that approached.  However it was unlikely as he selected a place that was void of monsters.  His eyes were closed as he meditated on the recent events.  Arc and Alisa were both potential generals, given the right persuasive push at least.  The girl Esther had led Domarus to Mari, a potions master who had managed to create items that manipulated the minds of other players.  These varied but one was a potion Domarus thought best to be destroyed and forgotten.  He recalled how after the effects of murderous intent had worn off he carried Esther to a peaceful spot on floor one and ended up comforting her with words and gentle strokes on her face until they fell asleep.  He wasn't exactly sure what happened after that but he did know that Esther had opened him up and made him feel like a good guy for the first time.  She seemed to see something in him that he doubted was there.  Then again she saw that with Mari but he couldn't see any light in that woman.  She claimed to hate killing and yet she had been storing a potion that made the consumer into a serial killer.  Afterwords he had decided to open a shop so he could purchase Mari's potions as well as...  Something more specific elsewhere with no problem.  The latter would take a long time to gather col for but if he needed to he could always borrow some from a front liner.  Assuming he could find one at least.

@Esther

Domarus felt that sense of power, authority and control once again as she bowed lightly to him.  It was a gesture for a completely different purpose of course but he was so used to the action that it was one and the same for him.  One day she might be bowing in a slightly different manner.  Possibly adding the word master to it as well.  Not as a servant of course oh no, she'd be his apprentice.  He heard her talk about fighting mobs and seeing how her sword turned out and he smiled.

"Well alright then!  Uh, I'm not that strong in level and you seem to beat me in equipment for now.  Would you mind taking the monsters hate at first?  If your health gets low I can get it's attention."  He didn't want to die but neither did he want her dying.  And he was most interested in both Alisa's weapon's stats as well as her fighting style.  Was she cruel in her approach like he was?  Or was she a born fencer, calm, collect and precise?  Or was she a.  Possible blend of both?  He imagined how deadly and powerful she could be if she channeled her emotions into her blade while being calm and precise at the same time.  Wrath and calm working hand in hand.  That would be a deadly combination indeed.  Domarus wasn't exactly used to using a huge ax yet but he would master it as soon as possible.  It wouldn't be long he knew.  He would maximize his damage and master his two handed ax, becoming the first player to deal massive damage so early on in the game.  However from what he heard damage wasn't as important as tanks since they could take all the strongest attacks from other players easily.  He needed something that would amplify his attacks much greater, particularly something that couldn't just be bought.  As they walked he spotted a lone boar in the distance and pointed.

"How about that sucker?" he asked as he drew his two handed battle ax.  The black weapon pulsed with a dark red glow in his hands and he felt power as he held the heavy weapon.

Mob <- 100/100 hp   -><-   16 mit   -><-   10 dmg

Domarus listened to Arc go on about armor types and how players could go any route but he wouldn't be able to fully tank.  Domarus shrugged.  The extra armor was just that.  An extra.  In short he wanted to deal the most damage in this game as well as be able to take hits without being knocked out in a single blow.  He felt like winning a fight by simply taking the minimum damage took the fun out of it but was something to be aware of.  If he could be the strongest damage dealer in Aincrad logic only stated that there would be someone who could take the most damage.  He wished he knew who this player was as he or she might be a very valuable member to his plans.  He listened as Arc suggested choosing to invest in heavy armor skill and while his reasons were sound Domarus figured he'd rather start with maximizing his damage first.

"I'd like to maximize my damage before working on mitigation.  However I may take your advice and take on the skill sometime soon.  Maybe.  That's the whole reason I want this gear is so that I can handle taking on mobs down hear.  From what I hear they all deal ten damage max besides bosses, and with equipment that reduces that to one I shouldn't need the skill yet.  That way I can focus on maximizing my two handed battle ax skill and increasing my damage as high as I can."  He once again wondered if there was some sort of weapon or skill that was different from every other that Domarus could get his hands on that would make him the most strongest damage dealer of all time.  He definitely hoped so.  Not only would that help further his goals but it would make him extremely important to the front lines as well as virtually invincible.  He heard Arc say they were heading in the right direction and grinned.  He was eager to slay something besides a boar at long last.

Domarus had made a successful strike against the monster and could feel some of his frustrations leave from the move.  He always channeled his emotions into his beatings or his combat.  That was partially how he could be cruel or vicious in combat.  Domarus heard Jonathan begin talking to him and turned around to listen.  Oh so he's praising him?  Couldn't he have saved that for afterwards?  Praise came after the deed was accomplished.  Not during.  Besides he needed to focus on the-  Domarus let out a grunt as he was moved back a bit from the force of the blow the boar gave him.  Domarus looked down and with a mighty growl kicked the boar ten feet away.  He flexed his shoulders and gripped his weapon tightly, allowing the black ax to emanate it's dark red glow.

"How about we save the compliments for afterwards?  I've got a job to finish."  Domarus turned back to the boar, his eyes daring the boar on.  His following words held the same.

"COME ON!  TRY THAT AGAIN!"  The boar was hesitant as the player seemed to have gotten pissed.  However it had developed a maneuver or two fighting other players and was certain it could last him.  It charged with an almighty roar at Domarus.  Domarus didn't move but let his eyes remain shut as he let the ax blade fall to the ground, using it as support.  He was building up his emotion and strength for when the time was right.  The monster tried to strike him but when he heard the boar's footsteps loud enough he spun the ax at it and the boar squealed with surprise and evaded it just in time.  Any time the monster seemed to about to get the jump on him, attacking from each side, Domarus swung the ax in it's direction, using sound and vibrations to identify it's location.

ID#  67700   BD:  1   MD:  7

Domarus:  50/60  -><-  2/6 energy

Boar:  19/30

Domarus watched as the girl continued to cry and plead with Domarus to keep the dark thoughts away and keep them away.  He felt his heart sink a little to see her in such a state.  So the potion did have after effects.  Such a twisted creation.  And she called him a sadist.  If he had it his way he'd destroy the potion and the instructions to forge it.  He felt Esther press his hand against his cheek and saw that she desired it.  So he sat down and let her lie on him as he stroked her.

"If you're too afraid of using a weapon then don't.  While I feel like these corrupted thoughts Mari has tainted you with will vanish over time, allowing me to push the weakened weed aside and replace it with an appropriate reason and thought, you don't need to hold a weapon.  Not while you stand with me.  Mari may be powerful, but she isn't afraid to kill either.  I break and manipulate people, yes, but it's to make them strong and independent.  However I see nothing wrong with someone like you in this world Esther.  I'm glad you wish to spend time with me.  I don't want you as a follower.  No that wouldn't suit you.  It would be a waist for me to do that to you.  I want you to be my friend ok?  Don't let someone tie a leash around your neck and treat you like dirt.  I do so to my servant because she enjoys the pain.  You don't seem like that person though."  He looked up at the sky for a moment.  Esther lying on him like a child, being stroked and comforted with words.  Words coming from a mastermind who wished to manipulate the world into granting him the title of king and giving him powers no one else could possess.  The ability to become indestructible with his own personal army at his back.  Servants and scouts, assassins and knights, informants, chefs, alchemists.  He desired all of this.  But at the same time he felt the need to care for this girl.  Who knows?  Maybe she'd let him adopt her at some point, or maybe just become his little sister.  He didn't have any siblings growing up and wondered what it would be like.  As they lay there he placed his head against hers and felt fatigue finally kicking in.  He was certain she felt it too and wondered what would become of them in the far away future.  If his plans would succeed, if she removed these terrible thoughts, if she was finally rid of that Mari.  Only the future could tell.

Domarus watched as Esther began to stir, then suddenly snap to attention at her surroundings.  She looked both shocked, confused, angry and sad all at the same time.  Then she turned and spotted him and he saw one emotion.  Anguish.  He heard her say his name with complete regret and sorrow in her voice and apologized to him.  Before he could say anything she dashed toward him and embraced him, sobbing on him and consistently apologizing to him, never stopping for a moment.  Domarus was a little shocked but he recovered quickly and said nothing as he stroke her hair and held her close to him.  He needed her to calm down slightly before he could explain.  The girls sobs and ranting began to slow down and once she was calm enough he spoke softly.

"None of this was your fault so don't say that.  I don't want to hear you blame yourself for anything ever again understand?  I expected something else such as a reason to hate me which I was looking for.  I was hoping to cover up any mistakes I made in my disguise.  What Mari created was far from anything I wanted.  Twisted and evil that potion turns anyone into a serial killer.  It was her own fault for not telling me the truth and mine for believing her.  You aren't at fault.  Nothing you said, nor can say can hurt me Esther.  I don't care what other's say about me, especially if they're under the influence of a potion."  He pulled her away slightly and kneeled down to her level, brushing some hair that got in her face away and stroking her cheek once.  He looked gently into her eyes.

"And while others see me as cruel, evil, and evidently sadist, you see something that nobody, not even I saw.  You see me as someone who cares of others.  And while my ultimate goal is to help myself, I suppose I also try helping others to some extent.  I didn't know I had that.  You are a good person Esther and while nothing I do can match your kindness, I hope you will be willing to spent a lot more time with me."

Domarus sent the two hundred col to Mari and received starry eyed illusion.  The powerful potion that would inform him of his potentially most dangerous trait.  What he desired more than anything else.  How would it effect him?  How could he use it?  How could he hide it from others?  He placed the potion in his inventory when he heard Esther begin to ask him something before losing consciousness.  He didn't wait for her to collapse before he lifted her up so that he was holding her with both arms, making sure she was comfortable in his arms.  He rose to full height and nodded to Mari.

"Pleasure doing business with you.  I'll take my leave and allow you to sit here in peace."  He made his way outside of the tent and looked around at the dark world around.  He didn't want Esther to wake up in a place like this.  He made his way through the valley, the high level mobs considering chasing them but were warded off not by his appearance as he was obviously a weakling, but the cruel, hateful glare he gave any who looked his way.  When he reached the town he walked to the teleport and warped to the first floor.  When they arrived he searched the floors for a suitable place and found a flowery meadow.  He personally didn't care for flowers but he was almost certain she would.  He placed her gently on the flower bed and leaned against a nearby tree.  Well that went about as well as he expected.  Neither good nor bad.  It was clear Mari detested him but wanted his col.  He had an interest in several of her potions but had discovered one or two he'd rather avoid entirely.  Not only that but Esther might be mentally harmed for good.  He wished that didn't happen but Mari didn't exactly give an accurate description of what the potion would have done.  He stared gently at Esther as she seemed to be asleep, calm and restful.  He never had that experience.  He slept under the preparation that he could be jumped at any moment.  Even in this world he needed to fear something like that.  And that was why his new ax leaned against him so he could target any attackers at a moment's notice.

Domarus watched as Esther struggled against Mari and the antidote, until finally the girl complied and drank the potion, slipping to the ground.  Domarus felt bad for the girl, which was a rare thing for him.  This girl didn't deserve such an effect, even if he didn't realize that's what it actually did.  He felt a little bad for the event and felt that horrible feeling.  The feeling that he owed someone something and it wasn't a result he was seeking.  It was terrible but he was certain he could make it up to her easily.  He listened as Mari gave him her explanation and nodded.  He understood how craft masters wouldn't get the result they wanted every time, but he was still surprised that she didn't destroy the thing.  Even he thought it was too far.  At least his version simply persuaded the drinker that they were justified in killing a specific target rather than killing everyone around for fun.  He then listened to Mari talk to him about how she could make the potion and he frowned when he heard her call it sadistic.

"I'd rather avoid killing players in general but it's always good to be prepared.  If there's a dangerous pker who is a threat to the front lines or those in my group.  I heard something about a player name Opal and how most of the front lines would rather have her gone.  If she becomes too strong I'd like to be able to use this potion to remove her without losing my status."  It was true he didn't want to kill players.  Yes he wanted to manipulate them into his services, and yes he may beat up his servant to vent, but he was no murderer.  And while he didn't like using others to kill, if they already had reason enough to do so he was willing to push them the rest of the way if the target was evil and a threat to his plans.  He listened as Mari suggested taking Esther somewhere more hospitable and knew that the woman was nearing the end of his patience.  He nodded.  Hopefully the depression potion would be finished soon.  However.

"Before I go...  I think I'll buy a vial of starry eyed illusion.  It would benefit me to not only feel it's effects for myself, but also know my heart's true desire.  It would make it easier for me to keep others from using it against me."  As he said this he lifted Esther to her feet and placed his arm around her to support her.  He wasn't sure if she would be weak or not, or for how long.

@Esther

Domarus was actually happy that the girl didn't get the joke.  His servant could be irritatingly inappropriate at times.  She flourished to show off her outfit as if they were in some sort of fashion show and pulled down the mouthpiece, still looking a bit intimidating with the hood shading her eyes.  She talked to him about the outfit and was pleased to hear that she wanted to be a scout.  Jonathan, a player he met a little bit ago had told him that he had a friend who was a scout and he needed one in his ranks.  This turned out perfect.  He grinned as he completely and totally agreed with her comment about how darker was cooler.  Perhaps it would be acceptable to make his future planed armor as soon as he could.  Esther had told him to choose things according to his personality rather than fooling others.  He decided to follow her advice.  He nodded to Alisa.

"Yeah, darker is better in my opinion.  People with it look awesome and cool, more powerful than they appear sometimes.  And sometimes just as powerful."  He listened to her talk about how foods were a bit more complicated than they seemed but that didn't matter.  He'd figure it out eventually.  As long as he dealt the most damage in the entire game he was fine with debuffs.  Not to mention he had heard about unique skills that popped up every now and then.  If he could get one perhaps it would be damage orientated.  He was hoping to become so powerful, with so many followers that it would be dangerous to remove him as he would be essential to progressing through the game.  He didn't intend on killing players so that was one less reason for them to be angry at him.  He just wanted power is all.  Power and luxury.  He nodded to Alisa with a smile.

"Food sounds really good.  So what do you want to do?  We could talk, fight monsters, or gather some materials if you'd like."

Domarus listened as Arc talked about the quest's location and Domarus checked his minimap and nodded in confirmation.  As he looked at the map he recalled the player Jonathan had told him about a friend of his who was a scout.  As Domarus looked at the map's uncharted sections he realized just how useful a scout could be, not only for acting as an informat or material gathering, but completely scanning the map and revealing every short cut, sub dungeon and so forth.  Scouts were very useful in the long run and for leveling he realized.  He needed to get one.  Perhaps the girl Alisa was interested in becoming a scout.  Seeing as he intended for her to become a general.  He wanted three generals:  A damage dealer, damage taker, and supporter.  However he didn't mind having four generals.  Obviously Arc qualified as the perfect general and that was what Domarus was shooting for.  He heard Arc ask a question about his armor and he replied without hesitation.

"Heavy.  I want the strongest armor this game can provide.  I want to deal more damage than anything else of course, but at the same time take more hits than anyone else."  Domarus had been seeking out something that nobody else could receive.  Something that only he could use but so far he came up empty handed.  It didn't matter though, it was early and not much time had passed as of yet.  He had time.  As they walked he debated with himself as to whether or not he should ask the man Arc questions about himself.  However he decided that would be rushing it.  He needed time to get Arc to not only fully trust him, but befriend him, come onto his good side.  Once that happened perhaps they could ask each other questions.  For now it seemed Arc was only intending to get stronger and that suited Domarus just fine.

OOC- sorry for the wait it's been busy

Domarus was recovering from the stink cloud when he heard a familiar flash of equipment being changed.  When he turned around he looked at Jonathan curiously as he had different equipment.  Evidently, Jonathan was truly going for the knight in shining armor role.  Great.  Just great.  Another do gooder.  Probably didn't care about his own personal goals at all.  Domarus was the opposite.  He helped others so that they could progress his own goals.  He wasn't an idiot, people didn't do stuff for others when they received no benefit.  He listened as Jonathan apologized to lying to Domarus and gave his pathetically weak explanation.  No way that was true.  Well, maybe for some idiots but not most.  The players he saw in the town would rather have someone take their hand the entire way through this game.  No this player was attempting to decide what kind of person Domarus was.  Obviously he had been successful in deceiving him.

"Ah so you're a lot stronger than you seemed!  I thought so with the way you held yourself.  And that look in your eye too.  It's quite alright, I'm happy someone at a higher level is helping me get on my own two feet."  Domarus listened as the player talked about getting straight to training and began to give him a lecture.  What was this?  Teacher and student?  But if it was a way to gain levels quickly so be it.  He heard Jonathan tell him to go kill a boar and while Jonathan's back was turned his eyes narrowed.  Did this player literally just command him to do kill something?  What did he think he was?  Even Domarus knew that when you want to appear as the good guy you suggest, you advise, you ask, but you never command the weak.  Hmm.  Maybe if things got bad he could...  Nah, that wouldn't work.  Domarus nodded and pulled out Vindicem, his huge two handed black battle ax and approached a boar.

30 hp  5 mit  10 dmg

ID#  67618   BD:  10   MD:  2

Boar:  19/30 <- 6 base + 2 crit + whirlwind - 5 ->

Domarus:  60/60  -><-  4/6 energy

Domarus whistled for the boar's attention and when it turned and saw the giant ax in his hand it got a little nervous.  Perfect.  Fear.  Fear made enemies less focused, more radical.  It looked for a way out but saw no exit.  So with no other option it charged him.  Domarus began to slowly run up himself, beginning to spin the ax around in circles beside him.  As the two drew closer Domarus activated his sword art, covering the blade in a glowing black aura, and sped up his movements and finally swung the ax in an arc over his head, behind his body and led to an uppercut on the monster, striking it with such force it was knocked into the air.  The effect of whirlwind sent a shockwave right after the blow, sending the monster farther back and actually making a dent in the ground.

Domarus watched as Alisa continued to inspect Keres and he knew what was coming.  She loved being sarcastic and loved making others uncomfortable.  No matter if they were boy or girl.  Nothing she said could make Domarus uncomfortable of course, but poor Alisa would either get the joke and turn red from it or it would go over her head completely.  Either way it was coming and Domarus could do nothing to stop it.  As Alisa inspected the girl Keres made a grin and placing on hand on her hip, voiced it at last.

"You like what you see sweetie?"  Domarus gave her a look that told her to end it there and do it no more.  She nodded to him, her eyes screaming for the beating that awaited her.  After Alisa inspected the girl she told Domarus that she owned a cafe on floor four.  Floor four huh?  As of yet he hadn't been anywhere besides floor one, but he was assuming it would be in the town rather than outside.  Alisa wasn't the sort to go run her shop in the middle of a field of monsters.  Not like Domarus.  When he received a shop he intended to place it somewhere hard to reach on this floor beside a hill or mountain.  The shop would be comfortable enough, with many places for others to sleep.  And behind the counter would be a hidden door that led into a hidden cave where he and his closest followers, or generals, could plan and scheme together.

"A cafe huh?  Foods are buff items correct?  Interesting.  Can they stack with potions or do they work alone?  And what's floor four like?"  Then she said she'd show him her armor.  He leaned against a tree, eager to see it for the first time.  After a flash her equipment changed.  The shock of what he saw showed on his face but it was quickly replaced, though he didn't show it, with a very pleased feeling.  The outfit was nowhere near to girly girl as he expected, oh no.  It had a dark, intimidating, cruel look to it and he loved it.

"That looks amazing Alisa!  A black cloak with hood and mouthpiece.  So intimidating!  And the exposed arms gives off just the right feminine touch if I do say so myself.  That plus your sword is a great combination.  But may I ask why you selected such a setting?  I thought this wasn't your style."

Domarus grinned when Alisa waved at him and began to run over to him.  She seemed fairly excited for someone she had only recently met.  Very odd, but he should expect something like this from a naive and weak girl.  But that would end soon enough.  After she reached him she asked how he was doing.  In reality he was bored, frustrated, and wishing he had a mansion right about now.  Of course this was always the case as he fantasized often.  It would not become reality for a while though so he was content with what he had.  What he needed her to believe however was that he was the friendly giant.

"I'm doing well Alisa!  Thanks for asking!"  He reached over to shake her hand with a gleeful face and after shaking he heard her two statements.  His eyes widened a little bit.  Shop?  So this girl beat him to it huh?  Well it's not like he was shooting for profession like others were.  He wanted to go full out destruction capabilities first.  He wondered what sort of shop she opened.  If it was alchemic maybe he could persuade her in the future to make potions similar to Mari's.  Maybe.  But now he focused on the other part.  Her armor.  She had received her first real armor and he knew that this would affect her stats greatly.  However he was also curious to see what it looked like.  He was afraid it would be something 'pretty' and that would most likely be the case.  His armor would be the complete opposite.  It would radiate power, authority, and destruction.

"A shop?  What kind?  And why don't we see the armo-  Ah yes.  Sorry.  This is Keres, a friend of mine."  Keres chuckled and he knew what was coming.

"His only friend too!"  I hope I remember to beat her down later on for that...

Domarus grinned as Arc skipped formalities and jumped straight into the facts.  He liked that.  Domarus wished he could just skip the foolish blacksmith's little chat but there wasn't anything he could do about that.  When he told him that Keres should probably stay behind she frowned with an eyebrow raised and crossed her arms.  Before she could make a sarcastic comment Domarus turned around, his face hidden from Arc, and gave her a deadly look with his eyes.  She saw this and stuck her tongue at him before submitting.  She would pay for her attitude he thought.  No meals and a full on beating ought to do the trick.  He had told her to act up slightly, not overboard.  He turned to Arc.

"She'll stay at the blacksmith while we do the quest.  I'll go ahead and talk with the guy."  As Domarus and Keres walked in he noticed that nobody was in view, including Arc, and smacked her hard on the back of the head, sending her forward.

"You'll be getting more than that tonight fool."  

"Yes master," she said with a pleased smile on her face.  After this the blacksmith entered the room and gave them a smile.

"Welcome player!  How can I he-"

"Heavy metal armor."  he said bluntly.  The npc's expression didn't change and he nodded happily, beginning his little story about what he needs and where to find it.  Domarus noticed that he didn't bother telling him that he had to fight anything to get it and shrugged as Arc had already told him.  He'd need to be careful in the future though.  As he walked away he pushed Keres into the seat and exited the door.  He looked at Arc with a smile.

"Alright let's get this done shall we?"

Domarus walked out of the town of beginnings at last, his servant Keres walking close beside him.  Keres had no ability to fight at all but she had plenty of other uses.  One of her main uses was being someone Domarus could vent on when he was pissed.  This worked out since she enjoyed pain and therefore received pleasure out of his beatings.  Not only that but she provided mild amusement at times.  Plus she was really his only friend at all.  His black two handed battle ax hung on his back, ready to be drawn and decimate his enemies.  With his new sword power flowed through him and he was eager to test it out.  He wondered if there was a skill other than weapon skills that increased damage.  If there was he'd do anything to get his hands on it.  As it was he needed to level up either way so he was pleased that Arc had accepted his request to do this quest with him.  As he walked to the agreed meeting place he heard Keres speak up.

"Do you think he'll punish me too master?"  She asked with a smirk.  Domarus shook his head and gave her a signal to shut up, and she did so.  As they turned around the corner and arrived at the area she rushed up and wrapped her arms around his left, pulling them close to her.  He would have struck her for this but he was in front of Arc's watchful eyes now and he couldn't risk it.  He grinned at Arc and waved.

"Sorry I'm late!  I had to drag this thing with me.  She won't get in our way though I promise you that."  Domarus would beat her up whether it was through words or physically.  What he also knew was she enjoyed it either way and smiled gently as she held on while following his quick pace.  Domarus reached Arc.

"So what exactly do we have to do?"

OOC- Please remove Keres from the thread as I'll be rping as her in my own posts

Domarus walked down the first floor fields, his faithful and loyal servant, as well as his only friend following him close behind.  His newly forged two handed war ax Vindicem, created for the sole purpose of dealing massive damage, hanging on his back.  With his newfound weapon he wasn't as afraid of monsters as he was before, but he still needed armor.  He heard of a quest that gives free armor and he decided to enlist Arc's help in getting it.  In the meantime he decided to wander the first floor grinding with the weakest mobs until he reached a proper level.  As he walked around however, he heard voices in the distance.  Great.  More weak players huh?  He sighed and turned to where the voices were and saw that they were beside the voices.

"Come Keres.  Let's see if these could be potential followers."  Keres smirked at him and bowed slightly before following his footsteps.  Domarus reached for his battle ax as he walked and placed it in his inventory so as not to intimidate any lowly players.  As he drew near he noticed that one of the players was in a fairly intimidating outfit with a hood and mouthpiece, shading all features and keeping any form of identity hidden.  Domarus liked this guy already.  The other was a girl who seemed a bit on the weak side but also seemed like a suitable target for manipulation.  Before he could fully approach them however another player entered the scene and he recognized her:  Adhae, the player who seemed to be near his height and seemed to have the opposite personality as himself.  If she became powerful enough he might need to keep her close, making sure she stayed neutral rather than an enemy.  Then he heard her call out to the man in the cloak.  Itzal?  So this was the scout he had heard about?  So much with setting up an introduction.  Luck was on his side it seemed.  He put on his most friendly smile as he walked up to Adhae, giving her a friendly clap on the shoulder after greeting her.

"Adhae!  Great to see you again!  How've you been since we met?"

Domarus watched as Mari pinned Esther's arms together holding her in place and stood with his hands in his pockets, his face blank

of emotion.  He didn't know what to expect but what followed was the last he expected.  As Esther talked about how she finally understood why Mari killed people he saw that she was acting...  Not quite insane but not sane either.  She wasn't totally psychotic but she showed signs of it.  Then her eyes finally fell on Domarus, cold and calm, no emotion or reaction.  Then she made a wicked grin and while he thought he was ready for something like that seeing sweet Esther with an evil grin like this, more evil and cruel than anything Domarus had ever owned or even pretended to wear, sent a short shiver up his spine.  Then her next words shocked him a bit and as she began flailing and going into a frenzy he narrowed his eyes before looking at Mari in her own.  His eyes gave a single, easy to understand message.  Why?  Why make a potion that makes someone go completely insane with a psychotic desire for slaughter?  He was hoping for a potion that gave the drinker every reason to kill their target, not become a short time serial killer.  If he needed a pker killed this was not the way he wanted to fool someone into doing it.

"Antidote.  Now," He told Mari.  After the antidote had been given he looked at Mari, a dark expression on his face.

"I can understand completely why you dislike this potion being used on her, and I'm actually surprised that you would make something like this yourself.  Unless you enjoy seeing people being turned into serial killers.  I don't expect an explanation for it's creation and being sold to anyone, and neither do I care.  This is not the effect I desire.  If I get anything I'd like a potion that gives the consumer every reason to kill a specific target, to justify killing them.  Nothing more than that."

OOC- had a little issue with the formatting

Due to complications Keres and I are closing the thread early.  Nothing is gained.

Domarus saw the distaste in Mari's features as he selected murdering intent and wondered why she didn't tell him her displeasure beforehand?  Still the deed was done and nothing could change that.  She seemed very upset about what he said about breaking the girl and piecing her together again, and realized that she didn't get what he was really saying.  Unfortunately most people didn't.  He never intended to turn her into what he was.  The world didn't need two Domarus', let alone he.  She would follow him anywhere currently anyways.  No she was naive and foolish, and her master hadn't done anything to fix that.  So Domarus would need to intervene.  Using the potion made by Mari he would force her to see the world at it's cruelest and when she did he would show her the only way to recover.  To become strong and fight the world.  Nothing was gained if you just gave up and accepted the flow.  You needed to fight, not depend on others.  And that was what he was going to do for this girl Alisa.  He heard Mari talk about killing an innocent girl under the potions influence and looked at her curiously.  This was another reason he disliked testing this potion on himself.  While he could not actually harm the girl, especially with Mari here,  He could either cause her pain physically or emotionally.  He nodded to Mari as she told him that she could complete the potion.

"I'll come pick it up when it's ready then.  I won't use it for a while though.  And it's only to make her strong, not cruel.  I don't need two of me."  As Esther stood up Domarus took the potion and allowed Esther to take it, but not before kissing her lightly on the cheek.

"Only because you allow it.  Look at me when you drink the potion.  Nothing you say or do can harm me I swear."  He then stepped back, taking position between Esther and Mari.  He wanted to see what basis or reason Esther would suddenly hate him enough to kill him, or if it just made a bloodlust that she couldn't control.  If it was the first it might help him spot any flaws in his knight in shining armor role that he could fix.  Any insults or words used to hurt others would bounce right off of him of course.

OOC- managed one last post.  I can possibly reply sunday night around 10:30 my time.  I'll see you both then.

Domarus stood there as he waited for the blacksmith to finish his work.  He wouldn't have it hanging on his back save for combat of course, that would ruin his gentle appearance.  He needed to appear otherwise for now.  On the other hand the blade matched his personality well and he was very anxious to deal some formidable damage with this new weapon of his in the future.  He recalled the boar that he nearly killed with one shot and was anxious to actually do so for real.  Of course he couldn't do much without proper sword arts, but he would be increasing his skill in that area soon enough.  It was simply a matter of time was all.  Domarus listened to the pounding, heating and cooling of the weapon as it was being bent, curved and sharpened to it's fullest.  When the blacksmith finally returned with the weapon it looked menacing, eager to cut up anything in it's path.  It had a bloodlust.  Domarus grabbed the blade with both hands and felt the weight, pleased that it was not only very heavy, perfect for powerful smashing attacks, but it was also perfectly balanced.  He followed his hand along the long handle and felt the jagged areas of the ax blade itself.

"You truly are a master blacksmith my good sir!  Thank you very much.  The original cost was one thousand col correct?  So because of the discount I suppose it's five hundred.  Here you go then.  I'll see you when I'm ready for armor!"  He finished the transfer and the ax was his.  Vindicem, or punisher in latin.  A powerful weapon for powerful deeds.  And a soon to be powerful man.  This would not be the end of his growth.  When he returned for his armor he intended to be an invincible wall, a fortress blocking everything in it's path.  Along with that and his ax he could very well be invincible.  However there were many others who could do this too.  He needed to find an unfair advantage, something that other players could not obtain.  He needed something unique.

- 500 col

+ Vindicem

Domarus walked across the fields of the first floor with his normal stride.  Nobody was around the darker paths of this floor as the scenery terrified them.  So naturally he took this path in spite of them all.  There was nothing really to fear down this path.  It was all in the player's minds.  His servant Keres trailed close behind him and he could feel her gaze.  Unlike Esther and Mari, who were literally connected by a leach that was held by the alchemist and attached to the girl, Domarus and Keres were connected by affection.  What made it better was that not only did Domarus enjoy punishing his servants who failed him, but Keres very much enjoyed being punished in the most brutal manners.  Today he was going to meet with Alisa once again, intending to learn more about her and getting more intel out of her.  Perhaps she would tell him the name of her master today.  The question was not what she'd tell Domarus, but how to present his servant?  This girl would definitely disapprove of people being personal servants or slaves, let alone being beat the way he did.  Therefore he told Keres that she needed to act like his friend rather than servant when in public, though to still show respect and perhaps slight obsession.  He warned her however not to go overboard with her cockiness.  As they neared the area pre planned via message he switched from his dominance demeanor to his knight in shining armor one.  It didn't bother him.  At least when he had someone to vent on it didn't.  Not to mention he had used this practice over half the time in real life.  He saw Alisa waiting for him and smiled gently at her.  At least she was never late.

@Mossino

Domarus thought about what she had said and thought about it.  She tended to get cocky sometimes but he also tended to underestimate her.  He grinned at her and patted her hard on the head as they began to walk away.  When he heard her taunt him by ordering the most expensive meal and wines he wasn't nervous at all.  He knew she'd do this and that was why he found the cheapest place to visit.  Despite it's cheapness however it was decent food.  He looked at the waitress and ordered a spicy chicken sandwich with double spicy sauce on it.  He also requested the wine as that was the only good wine here.  The waitress bowed slightly and walked away.  Domarus turned to his servant.

"I seem to have underestimated you back there.  You have the knowledge and while you are decent at deception you are not a master as I am.  However that isn't where your talent's lie and that is perfectly fine.  Now since you claim to know so much please tell me everything about this world."  Despite her confidence he knew she didn't know much about SAO.  Her only source of information was the lowlies here who were too cowardly to leave the city.  Those players were pitiful and had no sense between their ears whatsoever so how could they possibly share information with her?  And he knew Raven.  She would never stoop so low as to speak to those sort of maggots.  This was all true and therefore her response should be one of humility, admitting that she knew nothing.    At least in this world that is.  When she did so he would begin to share his knowledge on what stats there were, what weapons there were and which builds there were.  He would also inform her about material gathering and the different professions.  He heard from somewhere that players could heal others with a certain skill and wondered how efficient it would be to have her take this skill.  Overall he believed it to be her decision on the matter but he disliked the idea of needing assistance in combat.  Nonetheless he needed the most efficient way currently.  No more and no less.  He would also tell his servant of the two potential followers as well as Mari and her...  Ingenious potions.

Thread complete

Summary

Domarus + 1 sp  +  200 col

Alisa + 1 sp  +  200 col