#Mission board thread ⋆༺ ⚔︎ ༻⋆

[paragonknightxander]

Fire cracked from planks of wood, the camp held together from a messy foundation. A large group of bandits circled a lone man like sharks, they took turns toying with him. They mocked with a sinister flare, faking swings that would edge closer with each shot out of sheer boredom. Other villagers could do nothing but watch inside their cage, if they dare speak out surely they would surely be the next target of such abuse.

The town had already long since turned to ruin by the time Xander arrived, many buildings were in disrepair or had fallen to ash. He was absolutely infuriated but chose to stuff it inside himself rather than make a scene. By the time such reports finally made way to him it was far too late, he couldn’t help but blame himself. 

Truthfully he had been in such a rush in the heat of the moment he neglected to bring a proper army. The best he could manage now is hunt down those instigators. This was unlike the usual group of criminals, many mostly desired goods. Yet they sought to destroy lives for no discernible reason.

Luckily they were messy, random bags full of different items were carelessly thrown near the village, most likely fallen from a carriage. It wasn’t a perfect lead, but in a battle of time he would have to take the risk. Even if he couldn’t stop the destruction that had already taken place, surely this group of bandits couldn’t have gone far. Most likely hiding out in whatever base they could manage.

Xander rushed off into the woods, his horse’s hooves giving the dirt path a hardy thunk with each gallop. Searching for any possible sign of human interference he remained vigilant. Brushing past countless trees, he had been racing for quite some time. He worried about the fact that he potentially made the wrong choice.

It was only then an off color sparkled in the corner of his vision, a sword…? Not only that, it was surely wielded by a man he couldn’t quite make out the details of. He pulled the reins on his steed, making it come to a stop without so much as a sound.

Creeping out of its sheath, the knight gripped his sword tightly. He wasn’t sure who this person was, but there was no way he wasn't aware of his presence by now. He could only hope this man had come alone or wasn’t one for senseless fighting, perhaps he knew of the situation too? Xander hadn’t gotten the chance to see him well either, this man could potentially BE one of the bandits. However he decided against assuming the worst.

He was about to approach until his steed abruptly dashed forward- the distinct sound of an arrow grazed behind him! A sudden horde of bandits attempts to ambush Xander, pulling out Siegfried; he has no choice other than to fight. He had not yet swung his sword, yet in an instant one of the bandits came crashing down in a pool of crimson. Behind them came into view a man, that sword glistening its familiar color from before.

@otgolokh

⌖✶ When swords meet ✶⌖

Mission board distress +1 axe

[tossup-tempest]

April: Wanted Plots!

Since Joshua's arrived at Garreg Mach he's had most of his encounters at bars and the training ground - and those are his favorite places to be, so that trend will continue. But I'm excited for him to explore new places this month!

He's a merc so I'd love for him to go on missions with other mercs or knights and see the sights. I want him to reminisce about Merc Life back in Magvel and all of the Trauma(tm) that comes with that.

(Oh...and it's starting to snow. He can't freaking stand the snow. He's a desert boy.)

⚔ Mission Board [Golden Deer required] ⚔

[Authority +1] A string of fetch quests sounds like a perfect scenario for Joshua shenanigans. Joshua seems like the kind of guy who won't go out of his way for other people, and even though he'll be annoyed by the runaround, he'll keep a cool head. That's what a leader does, right? (And his partner might wonder, why's a wandering gambler so invested in this kind of thing, anyway?) - taken by kurthnaga

⚔ Non-Mission Board ⚔

Treasure Hunting: Joshua is much more interested in the thrill of the game than the treasure itself. He's also going to make his decisions about where to go and what to do based on coin tosses - at least, that's what he'll make it look like. I'd like a partner who's savvy with locks and traps, since that's not Joshua's strong suit right now, but that's not necessary. He'll even offer all of the spoils to his partner - but what shall he ask in return?

I'm also totally open to other mission tasks or thread ideas if you've got 'em! Discord DMs or server pings preferred.

[paragonknightxander]

Who would do such an irresponsible thing? Surely one of the pupils had stolen his documents on this exam. His eyes are set on his class, particularly an unexpected new student to his seminars, Yuzu. By that look on her face as well body composure, he had an itching suspicion that her mind was wandering elsewhere. It would be ridiculous to immediately throw accusations, despite this, he will investigate this further.

The professor called out her name, all the other students gathering their supplies and leaving class without much of a word. “Indeed, I do.” By that look on her face he could tell she was nervous, this was far from an uncommon experience for Xander. Even so, one cannot rule out the reasoning behind this.

“A moment of your time, please.” He started, a stern stare full of conviction painting his face. “Earlier, I could not help but notice some of my exam papers went missing. Now do keep in mind I always sort my work carefully, something of such great importance would never simply get lost.”

“It is quite an intriguing coincidence that you suddenly decided to attend one of my seminars almost immediately after this happened. Especially considering I do not recall you ever taking this class or signing up to it. I am not saying you are guilty; perhaps there was a mix-up or information never reached me. This academy has a way with surprises.”

“However! If you do know anything of this incident, it would be wise to inform me now rather than regretting it later.”

yuzu with suspiciously exam-shaped throat: we outta exam.

non-mission task: distress (lance+1)

[paragonknightxander]

Complete shock had hit Xander as he came down with a hard blow to the ground, his steed violently rampaging in any attempt to get away from him. Never once has he witnessed his horse so upset, reacting with such hostility and horror.  She acted as if he was some sort of stranger trying to kill her! Adrenaline kicking in he immediately shot himself off the dirt, alerting to his surroundings. Dense fog and blurry vision made it difficult to see a thing! Yet the clear sound of raging hooves desperately fleeing met his ears loud and clear. What could have possibly caused this!? Xander refused to reflect on this long; his first duty was to ensure the rest of his crew were safe. 

Many of his group had sustained injuries, struggling to pull themselves together after being stormed by their steeds. He would assist those he could, bringing them back to their feet. He did his best to ignore the intense ache rattling through his skull. Aside from the pained groans of soldiers everyone was in silent awe from what had taken place. Xander felt heavily on edge, keeping his hand fixed on Siegfried. There must be something incredibly wrong for his own horse to turn on him, he had known her since she was a foal. She was a calm, loyal companion, a far cry from the beast who just attacked.

Mikoto’s voice snapped him out of his daze. Gods, was she okay!? Xander spun his head in her direction, relieved to see her already standing and assisting those who were hurt. Had she been seriously harmed under his command Xander would never forgive himself, surely the Hoshidan family wouldn’t either… Truthfully, ever since exchanging greetings back in the monastery Xander has been greatly curious of her. The Mikoto from his home has been dead for years, he had never gotten the chance to properly acquaint with her until now. 

Being Corrin’s mother, he pondered to himself if there was a chance that some of her behaviors are similar to his little sibling’s. Perhaps not, Corrin surely had a much different upbringing being trapped in that tower for most of their childhood. Despite being their brother, Xander felt like he was thrown into a situation where he had to act as the poor child’s parent. His father had already lost himself by that time, completely neglecting the young royal and yet expected him to raise them into a monster. He was merely a teenager when Corrin first arrived- thank goodness Camilla was there to help them as well.

His eyes met with the priest’s, a chill ran through the king. It felt like time had come to a pause; perhaps it was only him but tension fell thick in the air. He wouldn’t blame her if she had harbored any ill feelings towards him after everything that has happened. Especially to her child... The pain in his body never ceased. “Ah… Queen Mikoto, I hope that you aren’t hurt in any way. As for myself I will be okay, though I must admit I am a bit disoriented.” He attempted to break the silence between them. 

“I am very sorry for all of the trouble that’s been occurring… I knew that they were afraid, but I hadn’t expected such a harsh outcome.”

where evil lurks

mission board: distress | riding +1

[paragonknightxander]

By the daily missing reports stacked upon itself in a concerning display. Rumors traveled among the townsfolk about cults and other heinous groups kidnapping folk. Whatever was happening he could not– furthermore would not allow something like this to continue. The others seemed to be clearly shaken up by this entire ordeal.

Xander asked around the town, ordering his group to do the same. They needed to search for every potential witness for possible information as to what could have caused this. 

“Ah, greetings Lady Sakura.” The knight subconsciously attempted to ease his intimidating tension upon hearing that familiar voice– unfortunately to little success.

Though she is timid, he wasn’t surprised that she’d have the courage to get involved in this situation. She’d never stand idly by as innocent people continued to disappear. Sakura may struggle to see it, but he saw a bright passion within her that reminded Xander of himself. She has a good, strong soul, no fears could tear away.

“I suppose our paths have come to cross once more, I am pleased to see you as well.” He stated, remaining in his stone cold expression. Xander didn’t know of any other faces, people have told him that even his smile felt empty. This wasn’t something he let himself be bothered by however, frightened reactions have been commonplace for many years now this was nothing new.

“Yes, I have conducted a search asking the locals if they may have witnessed anything odd recently. Some of the villagers have stepped up informing me of their last encounters with people who have been reported missing.” He paused, gathering his thoughts into something cohesive enough to speak aloud. 

“A couple patterns I have noticed regarding their reports is of the people being off-putting before their disappearances; acting in paranoid, sporadic ways. All while insisting that everything was fine. It seems their main targets are those who may be close to the last victim. A few witnesses speak of feeling stalked as well, objects moving, doors being open or closed when they shouldn’t, shadows in the corner of their vision. We have been keeping a close eye on these people, while this could be written off as fear it lines up strongly along with the previously stated.”

Xander wished that there had been more clues about the instigators themselves, however it was better to have some kind of lead rather than nothing at all. If he remained vigilant and focused, something was sure to rear its face revealing more information. One way or another he is going to put an end to this.

two crownie heads unveiling the truth | Sakura&Xander

⤷ Distress: no points

[paragonknightxander]

Snow bellowed a wicked tune, its fury made it difficult to see anything. Xander marched forward gripping a heavy metal lamp, if it wasn’t for strong glass covering it from the mighty wind surely the candle would have burned out. They were all made aware of the snow storms in this area, yet no one could have expected it to pick up so suddenly.

Xander did his best to keep a keen eye on the few students as well Professor Soren who had accompanied him. It wasn't long since he took on the title of professor; truthfully he had not interacted much with members of The Golden Deer until now. Heavy snow coated the whole area... Despite this he spotted something… A light? This had to be it!

Sure enough, even through the cold a village slowly took color, bright radiant flickering from magic stood proud on a huge torch acting as a beacon. Somehow there remained a local who was entirely unbothered by the snow, perhaps this was something they were already accustomed to? Xander decided it was best to approach her, making sure the others were close behind.

“Ah, travelers?” A deep raspy voice announced, coming from an old frail woman.

“Yes, we have come here regarding reports of innocents being harmed by some sort of beast. You wouldn’t happen to know of this would you?” 

“Hahahah, straight to the point with you… Hush and listen, boy. This village has been cursed by an atrocious monster for over a year now, casting our village in a snowy tomb. It loves to attack when you least expect it, the fact you all even made it here alive is quite frankly surprising.” Xander was not amused by her disrespectful behavior, “I see. Though I cannot help but wonder why you’re out here in such conditions. Especially considering it's so dangerous.” Everything about this situation was already setting off alarm bells in his mind, even so he attempted to keep his peace. “It wouldn't go after me! I'm far too old, that thing is looking for a thrill.” She dismissed him, “...Well, thank you for the information. We will be taking our leave now.” He decided it was best not to stay around for long- with how cold it is they should seek some form of shelter.

Every window was painted black with curtains, no sign of life had the bravery to show its face. Not even the students dare start their usual bickering. The whole town seemed to be locked up, Xander attempted to spot some sort of inn but it was no where to be seen.

It was then he heard something, the sound of sporadic banging. Turning his attention to the sound he noticed some sort of wooden cottage. Its door was hanging wide open, the wind making it fling restlessly.

@senerist

❅* Frostbite rampage *❅

Mission board distress +1 reason

[paragonknightxander]

“There may be, especially considering the admittedly vague information we have now… It would be best to keep a sharp eye. Without first-hand experience nor concrete evidence we cannot yet be sure of what whoever is causing this is capital of.”

Her statement about black magic was a very real possibility, unfortunately that is not a subject he is as familiar with making it tougher to spot. Perhaps if Leo was here he would have a better idea on this. “Certainly, no doubt they wouldn’t be pleased with an army showing up here. It seems they would rather fight us from the shadows rather than flee.”

Xander offered a slight smile at her request, always so polite and even asking if she could come along. He can think of at least a couple siblings who would have brought themself whether he approved or not. “That is exactly why I’ve come here, actually. The people here should not have to live in fear due to some malefactors.”

Whether their testimonies were accurate or not, the piling reports of missing people around this place and even stretching into nearby towns is very real. Perhaps it is not truly his place to get involved, but it was this resigned nature that has caused so much suffering in his own homeland. Every choice you make affects lives in ways you'll never begin to realize.

“Your assistance is always welcome, Lady Sakura. Keep in mind this will be dangerous; however, I know you are strong and I do not doubt your capabilities.” He could tell that she was nervous around him. He knew of his siblings being from another world, he couldn’t help but wonder where she came from. In his own time they had fought side-by-side and vowed to keep peace. He knew this was a normal reaction for her, however it still itched the back of his mind. Though it was a strange place to encounter Sakura, he had not considered her intentions as being anything less than pure.

Hours passed as the knight prepared his army. Time felt like it had slowed down, anticipation creeping in the back of everyone’s mind. The day began growing dim, the sun was finally giving its farewells.

two crownie heads unveiling the truth | Sakura&Xander

⤷ Distress: no points

[paragonknightxander]

This group of bandits never stood a chance– though Xander hadn’t anticipated the sheer force and speed given from his unexpected ally. He had barely gotten a chance to draw his blade before the fight was already over, this is why every moment is precious. 

“Impressive, I take it you’re here in search of the bandits whereabouts as well?” He stated, apathetic towards the monstrosity that took place. The knight's judgment of someone would usually shift quickest through the trial of battle. This man is fierce and unforgiving, he would certainly be a valuable partner in his hunt. He knew the job was far from over; however this group is the first real sign he’s had in awhile, their base may be close. 

Mulling over it, he realized the majority of enemies came from the right of him. They could potentially have been on patrol for some time, still this offers a good sense of direction. Considering their amateur performance, Xander thought about the fact they may have shoved their weakest grunts out to die first by the hands of any army properly trained.

This bunch was capable of a robbery at most, not the destruction of an entire village. What a pathetic action led by the most low of people– of course they would purposely sacrifice members of their own group just so they wouldn’t have to face the front lines of danger.

Upon further investigation, something made its debut within the tall grass and bushes. There, a fox lay lifeless in the dirt, a flimsy wooden arrow pierced right through its side. Could they have been hunting for food? This was the confirmation he needed. They are not going to get away, Xander will make sure of it.

“This way, I'm sure of it.” He beckoned the other man to follow– they have to keep moving. He presumed that they were in this together now.

⌖✶ When swords meet ✶⌖

Mission board distress +1 axe

[paragonknightxander]

“Ah, apologies Mikoto... It was merely a habit I’ve grown used to. You are correct though; if you wish, you may drop the formalities with me as well.” Truthfully it felt odd for him to speak with her in a more toned down manner, but that was just a piece of him gripping onto the past. Where they are now, is allies in the mud of a dire situation.

Xander did his best to pull himself together– fighting past the pain as it slipped into the rear of his mind.

He flinched slightly at her unexpected gentle contact, he couldn't remember the last time anyone has done that. “No, I’ll be okay. Thank you.” He’d always find himself denying help from those he was nervous around, as if the knight could afford to let any sort of vulnerability show in the first place. Not when this group relies on him to keep a steady stance more than ever.

“It would be best to search for them, in such a panic they could easily end up lost or hurt. However, we must remain on guard and diligent. If something terrified a group of animals that intensely, let alone properly trained ones then we are not alone. It could be a big predator or worse.”

This whole situation must have happened for a good reason, he’s sure of it.

Xander stepped forward as his features furrowed. He commanded the group; he told them to follow close behind and to not lose sight of each other, as well keep an eye out for anything strange or their lost steeds. Though most of them were still shaken up, they followed his orders. It wouldn’t do good to stand idle in the cold mountains.

Bits of grass and snow crunched on the ground beneath them as they passed many trees bare of leaves. Xander couldn’t shake the feeling that something was incredibly wrong; was he paranoid? No, his horse has never acted like that before. The fog certainly didn’t help either, this whole place is cursed.

He wondered how Mikoto was fairing. He glanced as she walked near his side, from what Xander knew of her that calm demeanor never seemed to falter. Though he felt guilty for the current circumstances he was grateful to have her present. He may have only known her through stories told, however from their short interactions she appeared to live up to them. She had been nothing but kind to him; he couldn't help but appreciate it.

Suddenly, a loud piercing squeal broke through the sounds of wind. It was one of the horses– Xander quickly followed suit. It must be nearby. “Come, remember to stay close together!” He instructed, one of the knights muttered something under their breath in response though it couldn’t be heard clearly. For now, Xander chose to ignore it.

There it stood, a steed tugging its hoof lodged stuck in a branch. The creature is utterly stricken with terror, its sounds were tired and full of despair.

where evil lurks

mission board: distress | riding +1

[paragonknightxander]

Xander noticing the other professor’s behavior he motioned for the students that stood close behind him to stay quiet. If he wasn’t in the company of young pupils to protect he may have tried to sneak a little closer– just enough to help when things got nasty. He knew something was off, that all too familiar rush within the battlefield has been clawing at him ever since they set off. 

Truthfully he didn’t know what was a ‘normal’ way to treat students, his father had been cursed for so long this was the kind of situation he was accustomed to being thrown in. However, he is still aware of how wrong and dangerous it is to put students in such a terrible wasp nest of a situation.

An unnatural crackle gurgled, its echo could be heard coming all the way from the cabin. One of the students shuttered in fear; all of them clearly distressed by the unsettling groan. “Try to keep your composer.” The professor muttered softly, the chill wind swirled from his breath. There was no denying there was some sort of beast in that broken down building, at least whatever it was didn’t seem to notice Soren sneaking up for an attack.

Something felt wrong; more than the situation in front of them, yet he couldn’t entirely pinpoint what. He didn’t want to take his eyes off Professor Soren or the students but he needed to at least steal a moment to check.

The knight turned, eyes darting around the town not far behind him. Buildings lay eerily barren, he wondered if anyone truly even still lived in this town. Nothing felt inhabited– Xander’s blood ran cold. There it was, its massive body contorting in unnatural ways atop the roof in a stealthy prowl. Even from a distance; its dead white eyes were locked on Xander’s, both of them were in a motionless standoff.

It wasn’t alone.

If he moved, surely it’d begin its assault. Xander didn’t know what to do– if he were to engage in battle it may cause a sudden panic, the students were already terrified and this may make the situation even worse. When it comes to huge predators like this the last thing you ever want to do is show your fear. The noise would surely alert the other beast to Soren’s presence as well! 

Next to him the professor heard a terrified yelp, it seemed the students around him noticed his strange demeanor before he was even given the chance to warn. It was already too late, and he was powerless to stop it. The being bared its large set of teeth, chattering them together letting out a menacing gurgle similar to the one before.

❅* Frostbite rampage *❅

Mission board distress +1 reason