Domarus

Domarus grinned proudly as Arc boasted about his natural battling talent.  Good.  His cruel version of confronting others in the real world had worked well but in the video game he wondered if he could handle the weapon properly.  It seems he was more than qualified.  At this rate he should be a fearsome warrior in no time at all.  Domarus looked at Arc as the player talked about how he'd love to teach him more about which build he should go for and Domarus knew how invaluable this would be.  Not only did he know barely anything about the stats in this game but he wasn't sure how many builds were available and which were tossed out.  With magic being in many mmo's had magic in the games and added much more mechanics, class options and such.  However magic didn't exist in this game and there wasn't any pre set classes.  While that gave freedom it did mean that he would need to talk with someone else to figure out which were the actual build settings.

"I'd like that thank you.  I want to shoot for an all out damage first, but I also want to be indestructible, invincible.  I don't want to be taken out at all.  Is there any OP build like that or am I hoping for too much?" he finished with a grin.  In most MMO's barbarians would deal most damage but be weak to attacks.  However he was guessing that there was a way to have both in this game.  To have all out destruction capabilities and be an impenetrable fortress at the same time.  If that were the case he would become the strongest of them all.  He would be the one to deal the most damage in this world.  He would be the one to be able to take the most hits.  No matter how long it took he would rise above all the others.  He would learn this worlds deepest and darkest secrets possible, and he alone would be the first to rule in this world.  He couldn't rule all of Aincrad, yes he knew, but there would be nothing to stop him from ruling a small segment, as well as a small army of followers.  Power, wealth, servants.  This was what he desired above all else.  And the key to that was his ability to manipulate others to his side.  And so he smiled once again to his fellow player.

"Whatever you want arc!  I'm up for another round if you are, and I don't mind having a drink!  I don't think I've had good food let alone a good drink since I arrived in this game."  

Summary

Domarus gains 1 sp, 200 col

Arc gains 1 sp, 200 col

As the girl came into the shop he followed suit and was not at all interested in the decorations, except maybe for the fireplace.  Fire.  The element itself had all his interest and seemed to match him completely.  Just like fire he was passionate.  Just like fire he intended to guide others into the way he knows the world truly turns.  Just like fire he will burn down those who stand in his way.  He was unrelenting, unyielding, cruel, powerful, crushing, and yet he could also be kind if you believed his morals.  Most of the time it was for show of course, but his closest followers were allowed to know of his true self.  Most of the time when he revealed himself they had been altered by his manipulation so much they either didn't care or were pleased to find that his kindness was a ruse.  As they sat down he stared at the fire, his imagination kicking in.  He pictured himself as the burning power and recalled the bullies he had 'disposed' of at school.  He was the fire.  They were the grass.  There was no obstacle that could stand in his way.  He would destroy.  He would conquer.  He would  Dominate, as his namesake meant.  He was brought back to reality as the girl asked for his name, apologizing for her... Bad manners?  Shouldn't that have been the other way around?

"Well I feel it would be bad manners on my behalf since I'm the newcomer.  And I love your accent by the way.  Are you native to France?  Or is it a trait you picked up on?  And my name is Domarus.  Nice to meet you."  He turned to the waitress as she approached.  A servant to obey his wishes.  This was how he liked it.  However he still needed to take on the appearance of a gentleman so he would not talk to her as he should.  As a master would speak to the servant.  He hated it but he kept his gentle smile up as gave his order:  A spicy chicken sandwich with tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, cheese, and spicy sauce.  After he finished placing his order he began to wonder what sort of person this girl was, and more importantly, who her master was.

"I hope I don't appear rude in asking for your name in return?  I'd love to know the name of the person paying for my meal."

Domarus tightened his grip on the weapon before releasing the pressure.  This action helped him better focus his emotions into his weapon, infusing it with power.  He only relaxed his grip because that would allow him to move his weapon easier.  The boar got to it's feet and began to scrape the ground with it's hoof, attempting to intimidate the read headed player.  The attempt, if you could even call it that, was pathetic and had no effect on Domarus.  He however glared at his opponent with flaming eyes, a murderous glint glaring at the monster.  They stared at each other for a moment or two, each other trying to analyze and fool their target.  So far the boar had managed simple evasion tactics and only when it was pissed.  Thus Domarus rightly assumed that it would do no better than that.  Coming to this conclusion he allowed a grin to appear on his face.  The boar twitched at the evil look the player gave it and that was all he needed.  The force of Domarus' charge created indents in the very ground, his two handed ax spinning in circles at his side as he roared at the monster.  It responded by trying to charge him.  Only this time he was more than ready.  When he swung his weapon it tried to dodge to the right.  Unfortunately for it, Domarus let the weapon slide through his hand until he felt the pommel built into the bottom of the weapon, holding it tightly as the weapon, now reaching even farther out, struck the boar and cleaved it cleanly in half before shattering into thousands of pixels.  Domarus slowed down his pace before stopping completely, panting from the adrenaline rush.  He wished these monsters could pour out blood like in most of the games he enjoyed but that couldn't be helped.

"Well now.  If they ever make a subversive virtual reality game again after we leave this one, I'll definitely be joining," He said with a chuckle.  As he sheathed his two handed ax he walked over to Arc with a wide smile on his face, all the previous anger hidden once more.  This was going better than planned.  This player was powerful, seemed to like Domarus' style, and was teaching him everything about combat.  What could go better?

ID#  67237  -><-  BD:  7  -><-  MD:  3

Domarus:  12/20  -><-  0/2 energy

Boar:  destroyed

Domarus heard Arc speaking and turned his head to him to listen.  The player was obviously proud of his fighting style and that made Domarus pleased.  Pleased that this player accepted his brutal, merciless acts of harm towards the pathetic creature.  It was pixels and nothing more, therefore he had no reason to hold back.  The foolish monster would be dead soon and he would be one step closer to achieving his goal of gaining a general.  He returned his attention to the boar.  The creature had finally managed to stand on it's feet and looked really pissed.  However something was off about it.  It's eyes flashed with rage, but it also seemed to glow for a second.  He checked it's health bar and confirmed that it was in the red zone.  So these creatures didn't become weak from fatigue?  Very well.  He'd have to teach this pathetic creature a lesson.  The boar began to charge and Domarus greeted with the same action, moving speedily toward the creature as he prepared his simple ax for another swipe.  That's when things went south.  The boar shifted it's direction just slightly, and effectively dodged the large ax.  With no resistance the ax kept swinging, knocking him off balance and he shoved it in the ground to steady himself.

"What the Hell?!"  He didn't have time to add to this as he was struck hard in the back by the boar, it's two tusks driving directly into the soft areas beside his spine.  He didn't expect the hit.  This plus the fact that he was normally immune to pain and that he knew full well of this game's pain dampening systems, there was no phantom pain.  Nothing he felt other than a light shove.  The boar had made a great hit, but it was now stuck on his back.  Growling, Domarus yanked the ax out and swung the butt of it's handle at the boar, knocking it away once again.  He spun his double sided ax until he held it with both hands.

"Let's see you try that again you piece of crap!"

ID#  67235  -><-  BD:  3  -><-  MD:  10

Domarus:  12/20  -><-  0/2 energy

Boar:  2/10

@Arc

The girl told him that she did indeed sleep on the road at first and told him that there was a player teaching him.  Well, this made things a little more complicated.  Not by much of course but it still increased the difficulty of manipulating her.  He needed to take caution if she had a master listening to what she said.  Perhaps this naive little girl could tell him a little more about this master of hers.  And what better way than to please her with food and cheap gentleman words?  He would get to the bottom of her knowledge eventually.  Hopefully soon he'd know much about how this master of hers thinks and acts and would be able to counter his teachings without making him suspicious.  Hopefully by the time he did become suspicious, this girl would be at the point where she didn't know who to believe more.  He smiled at the girl.

"Well it's refreshing to hear that someone is taking care of players out there."  His smile showed false shock at her insisting that she pay for the meal.  Then she began to lead him to a restaurant that she evidentially knew was a great place to eat.  He allowed his features to change to that same gleeful and humorous look as he shook his head and chuckled slightly.

"Well if you really want to pay for it who am I to argue?"  He followed her and began to observe that she didn't walk as he expected she would.  Instead of the young, giddy, girlish walk her stride was swift with confidence, swift enough for him to go mid pace to stay with her, which usually never happened.  He took long strides and thus was always a fast walker.  When he sprinted though, he left all others in the dust.  This girl however.  It seems she was taught well.  Her shoulders were relaxed, yet her posture seemed ready to draw her weapon at a moment's notice.  An interesting combination.  Yes.  She would make a fine general one day.  One day.

Domarus listened to Arc's words and nodded.  This was definitely the player he had hoped to one day meet.  Strength was everything to him.  Well, actually there was obviously more, but strength was a big factor in his decisions.  And strength was something Domarus could agree with.  He himself chose what he thought was the most damage dealing weapon available in the game and was eager to deal massive one hit ko attacks not only to impress others into joining him, but to increase his own personal strength.  He let out another false chuckle to the player's next words.

"Heh, if only I could wield the ax a little easier."  He began to laugh for a bit before returning his attention to Arc.  It was true he wasn't a master at the ax, but he intended to master it quickly and efficiently.  Once he did he'd look for other skills to master.  Perhaps this battle healing this player mentioned wasn't a bad thing.  He heard him mention another mob and he turned around, spotting the ridiculous mob.  The monster let out a snort and with Arc behind him, he didn't see the cruel sneer he gave the boar that made it obvious he intended to gut the thing.  The boar howled in rage and rushed at him but now he was ready.  Instead of just blindly swinging at the mobs like last time he chose to come up with a strategy.  Who knew monsters would be this smart in this game?  No other game had this kind of mechanics so far as he knew.  If they ever left this world Domarus would definitely wait for another one to be made.  There wasn't a question that they would, it was human nature.  When it did come out he would be one of the first to enter the game and become one of the greatest rulers they had ever seen.  The monster charged him and he pulled out the two handed ax like lightning and held in front of him a second before the monster struck him, locking between it's tusks.  The monster struggled for a moment before hesitating and looking at him for mercy.  It saw no such thing in his eyes.  Domarus threw the monster into the air and swung the blade in a large arc over his head and coming back around past his lower right leg and striking the monster through it's neck, bottom to top, with such force it sent a shockwave that sent the monster flying higher into the air and came crashing into the ground a few feet away.  Now THAT'S better.

ID#  67231  -><-  BD:  10  -><-  MD:  4

Domarus:  15/20  -><-  0/2 energy

Boar:  2/8  -><-  Base 3 dmg + 1 crit x 2 whirlwind = 8 dmg

He watched as this player observed Domarus and he obviously had a doubt or two.  So this was another cautious player was he?  Domarus would need to learn a bit about him before deciding if he would try manipulating him to his own whims.  However he looked capable so he would either be a great ally, or could be a potentially dangerous threat.  Either way he hoped that this player would be neutral at best.  He didn't want to receive someone who would go telling everyone he was someone to avoid this early in his campaign.  He had only just begun and it would take time and effort to reach his goals.  Still this player probably wouldn't let go to any doubts until he was satisfied.  Luckily, Domarus was a master of deception and manipulation.  This player would not receive any hint of his true personality so long as he could help it.  He smiled to the player.

"Ah, that makes sense.  It would have been really weird if coal was important in this game.  A scout huh?"  Hmm.  A scout.  That would be an excellent addition to his forces.  Scouts were good at gathering intel, evidently materials, and investigating.  If he had his own scout he could stay well informed.  With a scout he would never be taken by surprise.  All rumors, names, mythes and such would be at his personal disposal.  Not only this but he could send them to interact with players who disliked him and learn their strengths, weaknesses and personal views.  With this information he could either persuade them, warn them off or dispose of their position if need be.  There were more ways to dispose of players besides killing of course.  Publicly humiliating was one famous one, and once he had the crowd's favor he could easily change their opinion on his targets, making them look bad and publicly taken out.

"Itzal huh?  I'd like to meet him sometime.  Maybe you could introduce us?"  He watched as the player who now named himself as Jonathan held out his hand and Domarus took hold, feeing the player's strength did not restrain his strong grip and shook firmly.

"My name's Domarus.  Nice to meet you Jonathan.  And I'd love to join you."

As Domarus listened to the girl talk he was quickly realizing how easy it was going to be to manipulate this girl.  The obvious first step would be to befriend her over the next course of the week.  When they were close enough he could pull out some of her personal views and begin to bend them slightly, changing, altering them closer to his perspective.  If she didn't listen to him he'd simply set up a scenario that would force her to believe.  Scenarios that really did happen, that actually took effect in this world and the real one.  Things that she couldn't ignore on any level.  Once her beliefs began to change he could start requesting things of her to start her on the journey to becoming one of his generals.  If general didn't work out she could always end up as a follower.  Then she mentioned a friend of hers.  Dang it.  This would be a problem if it was what he thought it was.

"A friend?  How did you guys meet?  Wait you slept on the road?"  He showed genuine shock and concern on his face with the last remark but in reality he was beginning to understand this girl a little more now.  She was probably pathetic like the rest of the players on this rotten floor except she was so in the sense that she was terrible at combat, gathering, anything really.  This other person probably was teaching her and therefore was her master and she her apprentice.  He of course was someone's master but in a very much different sense.  Keres was his personal servant who didn't mind, and in fact enjoyed his punishments very much.  Therefore she was the perfect venting tool.  Despite this however she was also his one and only friend in the real world.  Both of their pasts were equally interesting and confusing.  Still that didn't change the fact that he needed other workers.

"If your not doing anything maybe we could talk over lunch?  You look a bit hungry," he said with a friendly smile.  "Though, I don't have that much col I'd be more than willing to pay."  He wouldn't be paying.  He was betting his life on it.  This girl seemed to be the type to want to help others rather than herself and she might not like the idea of his willing to pay for her.

Domarus listened to Arc explain and believed it interesting.  So there was no real effective way to heal other than potions eh?  So if a target ran out of potions they were as good as finished.  That was valuable information and he was glad Arc had spilled the information.  Battle healing seemed important though and he decided he might snag that skill at some point.  He wanted to seize everything that maximized his combat skills so that he would become invincible.  If there was something out there that could only be claimed by individual few then he would seek to take it without hesitation, ignoring what he did to others.  However it seemed col was a necessity.  He watched the warrior smile for what seemed like the first time and saw his opportunity, smiling back and drawing his weapon.

"Are you kidding?  I'm ready for more!  And I'm thankful that you've got my back.  Hopefully I can get strong enough to solo the weakest mobs here."  And once I can do that I'll be skyrocketing to the top.  I'll power level so hard the other players wouldn't see what was coming.  A lowly player in the weakest stats suddenly shooting up with powerful gear, stats and levels, rising with minions and followers of his own.  Nobody would stand before him, too weak or fragile to take him down.  Once he became strong enough he would take his place in the front lines, being too strong and powerful for them to remove since he would be so essential to defeating the bosses.  Once that happened he was free to set up his own small empire.  He'd choose a floor he liked and set up a mansion, maybe even a castle if that was allowed.  Many servants, many followers, and hopefully he'd have three personal generals who were nearly as loyal as Keres, though he doubted they'd be that loyal.

After finishing his release he breathed in and let out a sigh, squatting to her level and stroked her face.  He rarely used words like the ones he had recently said but the deed was done and she had lost her arrogance.  She was once again his servant but he did not want her affection for him to die down.

"There.  Now that I've vented perhaps we can start over.  Where were you all that time?  You knew where the graveyard was and I waited three full days there.  When I didn't see you I feared the worst but you were still on my friends list.  I felt betrayed.  That and I haven't had anyone to vent on for the past few weeks.  You don't know how annoying it is to play nice to all these people.  It can get on my nerves real fast.  Especially when most of them are pathetic."  Domarus sighed and sat beside her.  She was his only friend and the fact that she showed him affection made him want to show some back, despite the master and servant roles they played.  He rarely opened up like this but when he did he was genuine and he hoped she appreciated it.  There was only one other time he did this according to his memory and that was shortly after their friendship started.  Other than that she was his servant and he was her master.  She loved the role which is why she was the perfect servant.  Completely loyal and trustable.  Nothing he shared would come out of her lips.  If she was ready for it he would need to begin talking business to her.  That is, after all the affection was over.  As he thought all of this he would stroke her face some more or play with her hair, whichever she enjoyed more, while at the same time wrapping his other arm around her.

@Keres

He watched as the battle was coming to a close.  The player and the monster played chicken for a second before the boar became bacon.  As the player approached him he apologized for the length of time it took to finish it off.  He simply shrugged with a smile, keeping the friendly giant appearance up around everyone.  It was difficult however since he had nobody to vent on but he was sure that wouldn't last long.

"Hey no sweat man.  I'd rather take my sweet time than get mopped by a lowly boar," he finished with a laugh.  This was perfect.  He'd keep this appearance up and observe Arc.  He wondered what kind of man he truly was and how he could persuade the man to join him in the end.  He wasn't in this for a simple 'hey merc I'm ready to hire you again', he was in this for 'you're now my follower and will do as I say.  Do it well and you will be rewarded'.  Exactly how yet he wasn't sure as he still had much to learn in this game.  he watched as his health bar was slowly returning to normal bit by bit.  His eyes narrowed as he saw just how much health he was receiving.  He hoped that the number would change as his maximum health increased.  Either way he turned to the player Arc with grin.

"Health regeneration wouldn't happen to increase as players level up would it?  Heh heh."

Domarus listened as Esther denied his request as calmly and sweetly as she could put it.  At first he was disappointed but that was short lived and replaced with a sense of pride for the girl.  Indeed she couldn't be won over so easily and that could be useful in a number of ways.  Even if she didn't want to be a follower, which made total sense as she already had a master, er sorry, 'mentor', but he could still use her in very indirect ways.  For example, if he ever was in a hot spot with front liners and had her by his side, not only would they be reluctant to cut him down in front of her, but she could help him persuade them otherwise.

"Hey don't be upset about it.  I'm perfectly fine with your decision.  Though maybe instead of 'follower' you could be an ally?  I could always use those.  And yeah I'll go ahead and grab a weapon first.  I can use a quest I heard about to get my hands on some decent armor...  Do you think it would be a good idea to really go about buying things related to my personality this soon?  I originally believed that it would appear arrogant and I don't want that just yet, seeing as how it might ruin the reputation that I'm trying so desperately to gain."  He listened to her asked if there was anything else he was interested in doing.  He wondered how she'd react to his true list:  The first was to befriend players and trick them into becoming his followers, serving him faithfully throughout their time in Aincrad.  The second on his list was to become extremely high level and powerful, with unspeakably powerful gear and every skill he could get his hands on.  If someone had something only available to specific few he would find a way to get it.  However he wasn't a master at everything.  That was why he needed master followers, or generals as he liked to call them.

"You mean right now or later?  And I doubt we'll find her.  She's somewhere in the town of beginnings and I'll probably end up stumbling on her or something.  Besides you she's the only one on my friend list so I'll know if she's dead."

Domarus watched as the player chose an evasive tactic to avoid the beast's tusks and was relieved to hear that strategy was a big part of this game.  It definitely won't be boring here.  As he watched the player fight the boar he couldn't help but imagine what the player would look like fighting another player.  He smiled as he imagined himself in his full glory, with a full suit of black, red glowing armor and a black glowing blade, powerful and invincible, destroying all in his path.  He was excited yes but he understood and accepted that the day was far from now.  Who knows how far, but he would make it there.  No matter how long.  And when he did he would do so with his own small army of followers, assassins and mercenaries, Arc included.  Oh yes, he wanted Arc to be his own personal general.  This player seemed to be very good at what he did, but he also seemed like he wasn't as strong as he could be.  Perhaps he wasn't a high level player after all.  If that were the case then he had a better chance at winning him over than before.  To that he smiled inwardly.  This was going better than planned.

Domarus growled as his servant mocked him.  How DARE she talk to him in this way?  How DARE she bring this around on him?  It appears that the game and safe zone had turned her into a spoiled brat who needed a lesson.  A lesson he would gladly provide.  Nobody punished more severely than he did.  When he was directly in front of her struck her with the back of his hand with such force that she was thrown into the nearby wall very hard.  He wasn't usually this forceful with his punishments but he knew about the pain dampeners and that he needed to put forth extra force for her to feel pain.

"Don't EVER talk to me like that again!"  He walked over and grabbed a long thick branch, not bothering to break off the twigs and walked over to his servant who tried to remove herself from the wall.  He grabbed her and threw her into it hard before beginning to thrash her with the branch.  He used all of his force, injecting all his frustrations into each blow.

"To HELL with what they think!  Nobody will find you here, nobody will CARE about you here!!  And don't you DARE try bringing this back around to me, you understand?!"  Again and again he struck at her, all throughout his punishment his eyes flared with wrath, all throughout he yelled insults and demeaning words at her.  When the branch finally broke he tossed it aside and kicked her shin before stepping back.  He heard nothing in the vicinity other than his panting and knew that no one had seen him.  Despite what he said he did need a reputation, and this might ruin it.  However he had finally expelled the bottled up frustration and took a deep breath.

"What do you have to say for yourself?  WELL?  Speak up!"  After the beating was over he knew that she'd probably be ready to take her rightful place by his side once more.  When she did they had much to discuss. 

@Keres

Domarus heard a shop bell and turned to see the sign.  Finally he thought.  He was about to step into the store when he caught sight of the girl, right before she ran into his legs and fell on her rear.  She slowly looked up at him and he made sure his appearance showed kindness, friendliness, and a dash of humor in it.  He watched as the girl reddened, chuckling to himself, then laughed lightly as she apologized to him.  This girl was innocent and naive.  But when he looked at her sword he saw that the blade was made and looked fit for destructive power.  Perhaps she had some strength in her.  In time perhaps, she might make a good follower, persuading others that he was truly a good man.  Still, no matter how young or naive she was, manipulation took time.  And time was what he had.  He would rule this world before they made it too far into the game.  He crouched on his knees and reached down, as he was still considerably higher than the girl, gently taking her hand and lifting her up slowly.

"Hey that's alright.  I honestly didn't see you there until just now.  You just bought that I'm assuming?  Why would an adorable girl like you be fighting monsters?"  His goal was to take on the appearance of a knight in shining armor to most players.  He didn't have the 'shining armor' yet but it was only a matter of time.  Perhaps he could wait before getting his ax.  Gaining followers was much more important than getting gear.  At least to his flaming eyes it was.

"Surely you don't live on your own?  You have to have someone right?"  If she had friends they would either be a bunch of other kids like her, or strong capable warriors who probably wouldn't like his true personality whatsoever.  Eh, he didn't care what others thought of him.  So long as he rose to the top he could care less.  Although...  It might be a good demonstration to annihilate one or two who might try to oppose or stop him.  Then again that might be seen as tyranny and that never worked out.  It would only work if the person was already seen as evil, like his removal of the bullies in the school.  They saw his rising and tried to stop him, but with his massive size, multiple followers, and his cruel combat methods they were disposed of quickly, gaining him many more followers.

@Mossino

Domarus chuckled at her thank you and hesitated when he heard her talk about how she didn't need manipulation to get into things.  He shook his head.

"No no you don't understand do you.  I don't want to just get followers.  In the long run I-"  He stopped himself realizing he was just about to give away his plans to her.  He shook his head and cursed softly to himself.  How could he be this easily fooled?  Whether it was her intention or not she was persuading him into telling her his plans and he couldn't have that......  But....  While she wasn't good at manipulating she was good at persuading.  He turned to her.

"If you could do me a favor and forget what I just said I'd be grateful.  If not well that's my own stupidity for letting something big of mine slip out so easily.  However I have a request.  If I need information, would you be willing to help me get it?  It would help avoid some, ah, unwanted ways of persuasion.  I'd give you more company and I get to keep my jolly reputation.  Sound fair?"  Bribery, business.  That's what most people were comfortable with.  Even she must know the importance of a fair trade.  If he was able to have her as a possible ally in the area of interrogation then progress would speed up immensely.  No longer would he need to beat someone up or use trickery or deceit as usual.  All he had to do was ask her to fish specific information from the target, send her on her way, and await her return.  It was perfect.  She then said how she was excited to see him in fancy armor.  Fancy armor?

"I was originally seeking a stronger weapon but I suppose I could seek armor first.  Though what I have planned is supposed to be intimidating and I'm not yet at a level for such an arrogant piece.  Maybe in the future but for now I'll stick with the stupid, no good, 'knight in shining armor' type of appearance.  When I'm strong enough to not be bothered however, I'll be sure to take on my true self.  And while I think I can handle it now, I'd like you for company if you don't mind.  My servant got separated and ever since I haven't been able to vent on anyone, therefore it's been a really really stressful week."

@Esther

Domarus watched as the stronger player was struggling with what he had called the weakest mob in the game.  Domarus wondered if it was truly difficult to fight mobs even with a higher level, or if it was just plain bad luck.  Either way this Arc fellow seemed to be struggling but didn't seem like he was in any immediate danger.  He watched as the seemingly bored player fought against the monster, landing a hit on the creature and reducing it's health to half.  Realizing it wasn't going to help at all, he sheathed his battle ax.  No need to hold it when he wasn't using it.  He watched as Arc fought the monster off for him and was reminded of when his followers fought for him when he had been attacked by the bullies, the original kings of the school  However with his massive size, several strong followers and his cruel way of winning a fight, they were rendered useless and pathetic.  Without the strength or courage to bully kids around to do their homework their grades began to fail and they were eventually kicked out.  With them fully out of the way Domarus had all the power he could have asked for.  He was probably of higher power than the principle himself as he had the devotion of nearly everyone in the school.  He would duplicate this effect in the future here in Aincrad.  Once he was powerful enough he and his followers, minions and servants would rise up, in total control of the realms.  And he couldn't' get past how powerful an ally/servant Arc would make.  He was definitely a good man to target.  One way or another he would enlist him into his services.

At long last Domarus had found Keres.  She had been wandering the city for weeks bored to death with the lack of pain.  Evidently she was upset that the game didn't allow her to face death and get beaten or stabbed to death freely like she hoped.  He was the opposite of course.  Fear was an excellent manipulation tool.  Unfortunately without his faithful and loyal servant to vent on, all his frustrations had built up and he couldn't focus on his kind appearance as much.  When he found her though he released all his wrath on her, doing the worst he could so that she felt the maximum pain the game could possibly provide.  He knew she enjoyed pain and with the games influence on pain he was able to use the most harsh ways of punishment possible.  Afterwards he had finally cooled off and was able to take on a friendly appearance without issue and told her about what he had learned thus far.  He also told her about a player named Esther who was the apprentice of a pker named Mari.  Who made potions that could force you to tell the truth, make you addicted to the potion.  And drive you to a desire to kill.  All of which would work perfectly to forward his goals.  After all of this he told her to wait for him while he headed to go search for a blacksmith to forge a proper ax for him.  It couldn't be intimidating just yet.  That would come at a much higher level.  However it was definitely time to get his stats up so he could stand against most monsters.  After getting his weapon he intended to take that quest that grants the victor a piece of armor.  It wouldn't be the best but at least he could save up col.  His massive body parted the stream of the crowd as his eyes checked the buildings, making sure he didn't look rough or edgy.  Now where would a blacksmith reside?

@Mossino

Domarus looked at her with a grim smile.  Such an innocent flower.  He was beginning to feel slightly bad about using her this way.  Slightly, but not totally.  This was what was required.  He was beginning to realize that she was winning over his trust almost as fast as he was winning over his.  He almost wanted to tell her the truth of his plans.  But no, he had just met her.  He needed to really get to know her, especially see if she could keep a secret.  He especially needed to be careful if this Mari figure would be against his ideas as well.  He wasn't intending to kill anyone, though he wasn't afraid to if there wasn't another way.  He just wanted to trick others into doing his will, and gaining followers and faithful servants so that none could oppose him.  Suddenly the girl offered a large number of the 'col' he heard about and was honestly surprised by what she was doing.  After her explanation he understood.

"Well that's true.  And I promise that whenever you want some company I'll come over.  I like you Esther, and that doesn't normally happen.  Maybe it's your complete and total innocence, maybe it's the fact that you want my true self.  I don't know what.  Either way I have no problem hanging out with you."  He pressed 'accept' and the col transferred into his account.  He actually had a way to gain some equipment.  Finally.  He of course would start by getting a proper weapon, and he'd go do the quest for armor.  He was hoping to save up for anything he wasn't aware of, not to mention he needed to save up for these 'special' potions Mari made.  He couldn't wait until he met her for the first time but he was also cautious about doing so.  When she talked about how the ingredient might be a poisonous plant he looked at it with bigger interest.  You could poison players in this game?  If he had a powerful poison that could potentially kill a player, he could interrogate them with it, keeping the antidote in hand until they submitted what he wanted to know.  This day just kept getting better and better.  he loved it.  He shook his head at Esther's comment.

"It's no problem.  Don't sweat it."

@Esther

Domarus turned round into an alleyway, allowing the shadows of the city to cling to his features.  The only visible feature his targets would see would be his size and grin.  Other than that they couldn't accuse him of anything.  Even if they did nobody would really believe him.  He was too gentle, to sweet to others around him.  And he needed that to survive, to thrive.  For everyone to see him as the good guy, until the time was ripe to begin his conquest.  To acquire 'domination' over this world of Aincrad.  It was only a matter of time.  He found his first targets.  Now he needed to prepare and to plan.  But for that he needed a place where he could think properly.  He needed a lair and thus he needed to train.  He found it frustrating that he needed to increase the time he already knew was long, but that's why he was here.  To release his wrath and go back out to train.  Or rather, gather materials so he could purchase some equipment.  When Arc was available he'd enlist his help so he would be able to get the armor from that quest.  From what he had heard it was a weak quest, but without proper equipment it could prove fatal if taken solo.  His eyes caught movement on the other side and he put on his most cruel, evil smile.  However when the figure stepped into the light he stopped, his smile changing to a mixture of shock, hope, and relief.  Could it be?!  He narrowed his eyes and confirmed that he was staring at his faithful servant Raven, or in the game, Keres.  Finally.  Someone proper he could vent on.

"Raven where the HELL have you been?!  I told you to meet me in the graveyard and what did you do?  You just wandered around aimlessly!"  He stormed toward her, ready to release all the frustrations that he had been given during these past few weeks.

@Keres

Domarus listened as the girl mentioned that she knew exactly what Mari did.  Perhaps he could persuade the truth out of her at some point.  Not now of course, he didn't have nearly as much trust as he needed, but some day.  Perhaps.  When she told him that he would have nothing to fear from Mari he grinned.

"Well then, I'll need to pay her a visit.  Not yet of course, I doubt she'd be at all interested in me without any actual gear.  Perhaps I'll take that quest I heard about.  The one with the armor as a reward.  And I could save up for a decent weapon.  Then maybe I'll go see her.  And I'll definitely be asking what she could make.  I might end up being her number one customer before this is all said and done."  He was a little surprised when she told him that his method was perhaps the best way to go about it.  He laughed softly, enjoying the girl more and more and rubbed the top of her head.

"Ah kid, if only it were that easy.  But no.  If you think followers can be gained this way then your dead wrong.  You say you've only played arcade games right?  Well I hate to disappoint you..  Actually no, you need this.  Almost every guild that I watched grow, fell because they either bickered with each other too much, stabbed each other in the back, or something else.  And guess what?  They all started with the heroic 'we want to help others!' quote.  Bah.  Nobody in this world can stand like that for long.  You either die a so called 'hero' or you survive by doing whatever is necessary.  And don't you worry.  My methods are delicate and I take my time.  I don't think I'll have an issue but I appreciate your input."  He watched the girl attempt to gather something she could use but it crumbled under her grasp.  If that was all it took then he better get started.  He scanned the ground for anything and stopped when he spotted something hidden behind a small bush.  Normally he would miss something as small as this thing was, but it had something that he could relate with.  He pushed the leaves out of the way and saw a single stem with a sort of red gel like pearl.  It glowed softly and pulsed with energy.  Domarus picked up the small object and showed it to Esther.

"Any idea what this is?"

ID#  67206  -><-  LD:  19

@Esther

Domarus had made progress.  Not much but it was still progress.  He had met one or two players who were suitable followers for the future.  Not only that but he had discovered from one of them a way to make his endeavors much MUCH easier.  And he was anxious, very anxious to see them in action.  However he would need someone to test them on, someone disposable.  And he just didn't have that.  He mentally cursed as he walked through the town with his false smiles and waves.  One npc walked up to him and lunged onto his leg.  Biting back his displeasure he forced a smile and chuckled as the mother of the child pulled the kid off and apologized.  These npcs.  So worthless.  So pointless.  No reason for existing other than to fill in the excess space here.  However the amount of pathetic players who slumped around, terrified and defeated, already made this place crammed.  Domarus couldn't wait until he was able to show these pathetic worms who was truly in charge and teach them some respect.  After that who knows?  Maybe a decent servant could rise from this stupid crowd.  Domarus almost growled out loud.  He couldn't take this much longer.  He needed someone to beat, someone to release his tightened and constricted anger and frustrations out upon.  Unfortunately his one and true friend and most faithful and loyal servant had gone missing after the announcement.  He went to look for her in their temporary meeting spot until they could get their own little lair to stow away in.  He heard that if you had a profession you could design your shop however way you wished, which would work out perfectly for him.  He'd have the shop on this very floor but far from any settlement so only those strong enough to please him could approach.  He sighed with frustration as he began to shake, too little for the crowd to notice though.  This had to end.  Maybe there would be a terrified idiot he could beat up in the alley.

@Keres

Domarus listened to Esther as she talked about how she loves following others around and grinned at her darkly, and yet at the same time sarcastically.

"Well I'm always up for having another personal servant.  Let me know whenever you want to follow me.  I promise you won't be bored."  He listened as she began to tell him about how materials were indeed used as currency.  When she talked about how Mari dumped coal on her lap he realized that this col was the true currency in the game and most likely used for much more than buying gear.  Either way he had neither of them and could afford nothing.  For now at least.  If he needed to he could beat someone up in hiding with his face concealed until they promised to give him something.  He refused to have nothing and would not stand for it.  He would not stoop so low as to beg from others.  When Esther talked about how Mari could be nice even when she was angry and then continued to talk about how she wondered why Mari was feared by nearly everyone he already knew the answer.  Seeing as how this ignorant girl would take forever to get there he decided to enlighten her.

"You've never seen her fight have you?  From everything you've described about her I can already tell she's a player killer.  I can promise you that when she fights it will appear terrifying to anyone who isn't used to it, or enjoys it.  Not only that but the combination of her attitude toward others, the fact that she murdered someone in cold blood, and that she tries to avoid people seems enough reason for most players to avoid her entirely.  I'm not like other players however.  I don't intend on being intimidated, nor killed by her in any manner.  I'm not about to just waltz up to her and have a friendly chat."  Then she began to talk about Mari's....  Special potions.  The more she listed the more his mouth opened in a malicious grin, widening and showing his teeth in the end.  His expression was dark and he did nothing to hide it.

"Truth serum?  I can definitely use that, most definitely.  It would have to be carefully though, and not too strong or the target would know what was happening.  Not only that but If I'm too suspicious with my questions they'll catch on quickly and I'll lose them.  I'd have to draw them in slowly, which I'm already good at.  This serum would simply be quickening my efforts.  She doesn't happen to have memory loss potions does she?  An addictive potion?  Well well.  That would definitely be effective in keeping followers close to me.  They wouldn't dare leave my side if the potion was made a specific way.  Perhaps she could make my batches unique so that they would need to come to me for them.  Murderous intent?"  This time he didn't say his thoughts out loud.  With this serum my plan to turn Arc into a pker might work.  If I set up a scenario where he thinks he has no choice but to kill a player, if he had this potion, then perhaps he could be driven to the point where he enjoys killing his targets.  He would quickly become my personal assassin.  Oh ho ho ho.  Perfect!  Just Perfect!  This is going better than I thought it would.

"You know what?  I have a few plans that I need to work on and these potions might help me out.  However I'm not sure this Mari would like my plans.  I'd like to get to know her but I don't want to go near her if theres a chance she'll kill me.  Could you restrain her from killing me, even if you aren't around?  I don't intend to meet her until I've gained gear and raised many levels of course, but I'd appreciate the safeguard."

Domarus was legitimately surprised that she had accepted his words, and even thanked her for them.  He smiled outwardly but grinned inwardly.  This girl welcomed him in so easily.  She was going to be easy to manipulate when the time came.  However even if it would be easy he should probably avoid doing so due to this Mari owning her.  Still....  He truly only had one friend but that was only because she craved his cruelty and his punishments.  She was an unusual case and he was lucky to have run into her.  They went together perfectly.  He pulled up his menu and traveled to the friend request section.

"If you really want me as a friend I don't see why not.  I'm a little short on friends here as well."  Afterwards he was shocked that the little girl would just grab his hand and begin to lead him away.  As she did so he couldn't help but smile at the irony as well as the humor that the girl with the collar and chain leash was leading the towering man who planned on ruling this world.  It would definitely be a humorous story...  If he ever actually wanted to share it.  Perhaps with Mari if she enjoyed this sort of humor.  The girl began to point out different plants that would be useful and then suddenly exclaimed how she was stupid and asked what his profession was.  Profession?  He thought back to when he had pinned a player in an alleyway to squeeze information out of him before the announcement had been made.  He asked for anything he knew about this world and everything in it.  Lucky for him the player had a friend who knew what he was doing and had told him a few things.  The information Domarus received was mainly about professions and what types there were.  The realization finally hit him as he realized what materials were for.

"So all we do is search for usable materials?  Anything that could be used by the profession uses?  And I don't have a profession.  I suppose I'll shoot for what people need but don't have and become filthy rich that way.  I heard something about minimal active artisans so I might go for that.  Not sure what they do however."

Domarus nodded when she gave her opinion.  He had to admit it was an ok answer, but still too innocent and naive to the way things actually worked.  Then she began to mutter something about how she had a few but he could see the obvious doubt in her eye.  Her next comment confirmed it.  She didn't actually have friends.  Her personality was just too much for others.  He nodded, completely understanding but saw this as another step towards his goal.  He shrugged.

"Nothing you say can actually bother me.  I grew up believing that anything that wasn't the truth should be ignored.  If people threw insults at me I accepted it as that meant I was progressing in life.  You can't move forward without enemies.  You can't befriend everyone.  So nobody should.  Get your own group and stick to that.  Though it is good to reach out every now and then."  Every bit was true in his mind, but the last bit had more depth than he gave.  He wasn't going to just go out and say 'Yeah I manipulate people to do what I want' like this.  He doubted he'd ever confess that little bit to her at all.  But the bit he did share opened up the door saying:  hey I'm open to be your friend just say yes.  If this door didn't work he'd have multiple doors open.  they were all indirect ways of reaching out to her as it would be weird and awkward to just directly say can we be friends when they just met.  Sure she was probably naive enough to believe him and accept, but he was worried about this Mari character and what she would do or say if she found out.  It wasn't time yet.  He listened as she told him he didn't need to wear a mask and he was completely shocked.  This was the second time in his life someone had seen through his mask and shield.  He wasn't at all happy about it and he hoped that it wouldn't happen again.  He shrugged.

"If you truly don't mind at all then I won't hold back."  Oh he'd be holding back.  She may say that she could take him but she hadn't seen his full personality.  It was true he believed that he should be the king of this world when he became strong enough, and he would be.  He'd have many followers, servants bending to his will, mercenaries and possibly even warriors to carry out his deeds.  All would bend to his will, just as they had in his school.  However it wasn't time yet.  And he was a patient man.

"Well yeah I want your help.  I literally don't know a single thing about gathering anything.  I had others to do that for me in the past, I never actually did it myself.  So I figured it's time to learn and it seems you at least know the basics so why not?"

@Esther