genessia | Torn Asunder [Closed]

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Torn Asunder [Closed]

Who: Augustine G. Vlad Tepes, Rip van Winkle, Lancer of Black (Vlad III) & Shota Aizawa (Eraserhead)
What: A vampire noble witnessed the senseless killing of her human lover by three of her kin. Now clamoring for justice, four unique individuals join the hunt for the murderers all for different reasons.
When: Midnight, Everglade
Ratings: Fantasy violence, swearing & Aizawa is warning enough

[Augustine been oddly quiet since news of this travesty reached his ears. While this isn't the first time he heard of such brutality among vampire aristocracy, this murder is certainly a case that strikes too close to home for him. While he wouldn't give his reason to the sheriff department as of why he wanted to join this bounty, he did pull Lancer aside and tell him the truth. Even with his name slandered by the thoughtless act he committed days ago regarding Bakugou, Augustine still wanted to join with this hunt. It's not often that the dhampir takes up bounty hunting but he's been more active as of late.

So, it's with Lancer's permission that he assists in this hunt. However, he didn't expect to run into another familiar face out here within desolate streets of this haunted town. While it makes sense for there to be three hunters, Augustine couldn't stop the slight groan that escapes him once he spots Aizawa.

His pride still stings from their last encounter, so Augustine is all but silent as he lingers behind the duo. The bounty matters more to him than his wounded pride. That much is certain given how tense the mage seems to be now. He hasn't muttered a word since they left the sheriff department, his thoughts honestly elsewhere.

Distracted? Maybe. There's much weighing on him right now and it has very little to do with Aizawa.]

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[Since his arrival, Lancer has been doing his best to adapt. To relax, as far as employment to another has allowed and to set aside all thoughts of war and fighting. And yet, in his very essence now as a Servant and Heroic Spirit he feels the itch to stretch himself, to make sure he doesn't let his abilities drop for becoming too complacent.

It's partly why he's opted for employment within Everglade, though he makes frequent trips to Fayren to acquire sources of mana that would allow him to fight at almost full strength if it came to it. True, nothing counts as his home territory yet but the potions he's found at least allow him to expend his energy enough to fight any non-Servant enemy.

He thinks. He's never fought actual vampires before but he's willing to give it a good shot.

And it's for that, as much as it is to support someone he's quickly grown somewhat fond of, that he commits himself to the current bounty. It's not something he's done before, but it's his word and his self-assignment to the case that sees Augustine allowed to take on something which holds such personal meaning for him. Besides, this way he gets to see a taste of what Augustine can do, and that's not something he's about to turn down.

He knows there's another who's shown interest in the assignment, though it's not someone he's familiar with. Augustine's distracted and deservedly so, and so it falls to Lancer to determine for himself how this group might best work together. And so as they head out, with their mission clear from the briefing at the sheriff office, it's the stranger that Lancer turns to for now.]

I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting until now. You may call me Lancer, though it is but one of my names.

[He says, fully aware that while they are not identical, there is a certain degree of familiarity in his features compared to Augustine's, and if that is going to be an issue then Lancer would sooner get it out of the way now, while things are somewhat calm.]

[Perhaps he jumped the gun when he took on this assignment. Aizawa didn't have any personal reasons as Augustine did, he simply wanted to test out the new moisture lenses to treat his dry eyes, nothing more. As a Hero, Aizawa had dealt with similar cases back home, especially with quirks and quirkless folks. No matter how society or the government saw it, there is a big difference between them and the people will always see that. Everglades was no exception, human or not, there were some racial. This time, it happened to take a life of a human because of love. While he could care less of the reason behind this act, murder was still murder, and this needed to end.

Of course when he arrived to the law enforcement office, Aizawa met the last person he wanted to see. What was worst, another gentleman looked very identical to him, yet... something was very different about him. Aizawa was ready to leave, but was insisted in staying.

So here the three were now. Aizawa had his hero attire on, goggles over his eyes as most of the second half of his face buried in his woven scarves. Aizawa idled himself quietly as well. He just wanted this done and over with, hands pressed in his pockets.

It was when Lancer spoke which caught his attention. He turned to the Servant giving his attention.]

You can call me Eraserhead for this mission. Pleasure to make your acquaintance. [A beat, he shifted his eyes to Augustine, then to him.] I think. If you don't need me for this, I can go ahead and leave you two be.

Are you both related?

[ Something about this particular bounty hit a little close to home for Rip and where usually she would go after other vampires, she was making an exception for this. So after some debate, she found herself down at the law enforcement office to pick up the details and found herself facing two familiar me and one unfamiliar.

Rip waited for introductions to be made before speaking up herself after a quick glance to Augustine.].

I see I’m not zhe only one interested in zhis particular bounty. I do hope you don’t mind me joining ozhervise I may haf to snipe zhis one from you boys.

[ Just try and convince her otherwise. Rip was dead set on this one with how uncomfortably close to home for her this one was.]

[That pointed look from Aizawa wins a sigh from Augustine. He's in no mood to deal with this man, especially not now. He gives Eraserhead a slight glare but says nothing as Rip approaches. He's in a somber mood right but Rip's appearance eases him. Augustine greets her with a strained smile. While hes grateful to see her here, he's a little concerned for her safety.

After all, he indeed loves her.]

Are you certain, my dear huntress?

[He asks quietly as he steps away from Lancer. He'll let the old king handle that wannabe hero for now. Augustine doesn't even want to humor a conversation with Aizawa. That's just far too much for him right now.]

There's been word that the murderers plan to seek refuge within one of the subarchways. They mean to evade authorities by seeking out the Count's blessing.

[He frowns as he turns to Lancer and Aizawa.]

Yes, I do mean Dracula.

Eraserhead. As you wish. You are more than welcome to remain; for a bounty of three, at least three hunters seems a sensible number to me.

[Lancer is about the last person to question a desire to conceal one's true name - as a Servant, now, he understands very well why such a thing may be necessary. Though he doesn't fail to notice the pointed looks and distance between his two companions now - but if he's curious, he lets it lie for now. That's not what matters, and in-fighting within the faction is only going to serve in favour of their targets.

Still, he can't quite hide his amusement at the question regarding himself and Augustine. Truly he cannot be simply imagining the similarities between the two if someone else has commented on it.]

Not in the typical sense. We are originally from different worlds, although it would be wrong to say there isn't a degree of shared history between us despite that being so. I do hope, however, you won't hold that against me.

[If he's going to be judged, he'd rather it be on his own merits and not by association of one of his alternates.

Which, apparently, is shaping up to be even more of an issue. While he hasn't yet spoken to Rip directly - Augustine appears to have that covered and certainly Lancer doesn't object to her presence, knowing what he does of her history - he still can't help but overhear that mention of the Count and the moment Augustine confirms who he means, an involuntary growl escapes Lancer's throat, a dark scowl crossing his features.]

Well then we'd best see what we can do to intercept them before they make it that far.

[Because he absolutely does not want to deal with that particular 'version' of himself today or ever.]

[One of the traits Aizawa had to learn when becoming a hero, cooperate with other fellow heroes, even if he found them annoying. In this case, the damn mage vampire. Aizawa still held some grudge, he simply didn't like Augustine. Even though he disliked the vampire so much, he wasn't going to hold it against Lancer.

Before Aizawa could continue, he stopped to take notice on the other vampire who decided to join, the one he talked to recently. He simply gave her a glance before turning his attention back to Lance.]

And now it became four.

[He simply stated dryly. He had nothing against it, it was simply stating the fact. It meant the job should be done quick with ease, least he hoped.]

Naw, you two looked way familiar, it was almost scary. Long as you're nothing like that guy. [He thumbed Augustine.]

[But then he heard 'Dracula'. That made the hero shut up to take the time to listen to this new information.]

Shit, how many Draculas are there?

[Honestly.]

I'm very certain, Auggie.

[Her voice was quiet but, it wasn't hard to tell there was a bit of shared intimacy between them, after all, he was one of the men she loved. Besides, her safety was something Augustine shouldn't have to worry about. Rip was fully capable of taking care of herself and did know how to fight, she had been made for combat and war after all. Or did he forget?

Still, she tensed when he mentioned the possibility of the vampires fleeing to that particular subarchway and who lived there. From there she turned her attention to their other two companions, gauging their reactions and honestly wasn't surprised by Lancer's reaction and a little amused by Eraserhead's.

Even Rip noticed the similarities between Lancer, Augustine...and Dracula. ]

Currently? More or less four. It depends on how you count und if zhe vampires are indeed going to Castlevania, zhen hafing me along iz a point in your favor.

[She glanced from Lancer to Augustine before reluctantly admitting the last part. To two men she hardly knew, even if she did like Lancer.]

Zhe castle vill let me in und hopefully... he might listen. Providing you let me do zhe talking. I am hoping fazher vill at least listen to me so ve can avoid fighting in zhe subarchvay because he vill haf zhe home field advantage.

Und trust me, you don't vat zhat to be zhe case.

[A faint snarl escapes Augustine once heard that rude comment. He turns and gives Aizawa a withering stare. While he truly hates this man, Augustine knows he was in the wrong for what he done to Katsuki. He allowed his pursuit for knowledge to cloud his judgment, a grave error on his part.¡

If you mean to join this hunt, I would expect professionalism from you, hero.

[There's an authoritative edge in his tone that replaces his usual friendly demeanor. Augustine refuses to be triggered with right now. There's too much at stake here and they're losing time just standing here.]

There's about four of us. [He answers tersely.] Three bearing the Tepes name and only one who is the Count's reincarnation.

[Augustine speaks of Soma.]

None of us see eye to eye with the Count. Dracula been inconsolable since the disappearance of his beloved wife. His distaste of humanity is what fuels his hatred.

[His attention lingers upon Rip again, his gaze softening some.]

I trust you, Rip. It will fall to you to negotiate with your father if the time comes. The Count is deaf to my words, he will not listen to another mere shadow of himself. You will be the one to convince him if the trio reach the subarch.

[He gently pats Rip's shoulders as he passes by. It's time for them to get moving.]

I trust everyone has adequate provisions at hand. If not, use this time wisely.

[It's all too apparent, the clash of personalities between Augustine and Eraserhead. It's something Lancer is not unaccustomed to handling, and he's prepared to step in if needs be - but Augustine, at least, is clearly more focused on the task ahead and so long as Eraserhead remains the same, they should be fine.

Of course, given the direction the conversation turns, Lancer's not certain he himself will be able to remain entirely objective. His eyes flash a warning to Rip and Augustine, voice biting in restrained anger because now is not the time to get into this argument and yet:]

I will thank you not to include me in that count. I am a Tepes, yes, but that is as far as my association with that fiend lies.

[Not quite. But good enough for now, with bigger priorities on the horizon. Still, it lends a further weight to the impact of his spear hitting the ground, a confirmation of his readiness to head out and tackle this bounty - and quiet relief that he has stocked up well on mana potions, if the three vampires are not to be the only threat he faces.

He knows it would be reckless, on Dracula's home territory. He also is quite aware just how little he and Dracula think of each other, regardless of what connections they might have to the others of their 'family'. Still, if he is able to keep Rip as a buffer between them, perhaps it might not come to that.]

Very well, then. If we must venture that far, at least we have the makings of a plan to resolve matters, though I would still prefer we did not have to resort to that. If we are all prepared then I suggest we move now before the distance between us and our prey grows even further.

Tch. That's the last thing I need to hear.

[The hero responded in a deep low tone, as fair warning. Never the less, Lancer was right. It was time to act, and Lancer made it known when he slammed the spear. Something about Lancer seemed different from the rest, yes he stated he was indeed Tepes, but something itched him in the back of his mind. Maybe he'd figure it out later.

Aizawa dug in his woven scarves around his neck and pulled up a pair of goggles and covered the specs over his eyes.]

I'm fine with negotiations first, that's the most logical tactic to go for. If and when it comes to worst, I can nullify abilities and magic in my line of sight, so it's best if I remain by your sides or stay behind me. I'll try to keep my sight in front of me, just fair warning.

[Which probably confirmed what Augustine thought in their previous encounter. Aizawa thought it was best to share what he could do at least before the encounter. How the rest of the party wanted to play was up to them. All have some kind of skills to fight or they wouldn't be here. He already knew Augustine was some mage summoner, so it was best he stayed behind the Eraser. The other two, he wasn't sure about.

That said, he tucked his hands in his pockets and waited for the party to move.]

[If the situation weren't so serious, Rip might have honed in a bit more on Lancer's anger and teased him about it just to see what she could get out of him. Though, this did confirm his identity to her and that also gave the huntress a bit more of an idea of what she was dealing with from the two Tepes men in the group.

And of course with Eraserhead's volunteering of information, things are starting to form a bit more of a clearer picture in her head. She knew Augustine was a mage, Lancer was a former King with certain experiences under his belt and now their forth members ability...]

Danke. I just hope negotiations vork if it comes to dealing vith him. But, ve really need to try und cut zhe fugitives off before zhen.

[Rip tapped a finger against her crossed arms.]

I can track zhem easily enough... und does zhat ability of yours vork on natural skills or just magical or enhanced abilities?

[She was genuinely curious.]

Because if zo, zhen.. I can lead zhe group. Zhe lack of my abilities von't impact my hunting skills or my skills vith a gun.

[Augustine gives Lancer an apologetic glance. He turns fully to him and crosses his hand over his heart as he bows. His fondness for this old king is telling.]

Te rog, iartă-mă, Lancer. [He states sincerely iwithin his native tongue.] You're nothing like that monster even on the worst of evenings.

[He straightens again and gives Aizawa a slight look. If he must suffer this man's harassment, then so be it. However, he will not suffer any disrespect on Lancer's or Rip's behalf.]

As Lancer stated, our main purpose is to capture the trio. We're are not to kill them but deadly force might be necessary. These are vampires. They will not come quiet.

[He falls silent when Aizawa explains his skills with bot more detail. A slight growl escapes him as he remembers that awful feeling of helplessness during that encounter the other night. Augustine will never forget that nor will he ever forgive Aizawa's cowardness.

It's been burned into his mind.]

His ability seems to only work on the magically inclined. [He answers Rip with a hint of frustration in his tone.] I know from experience. Therefore, I shall weave my spells from a safe distance while his ability is active. I can try to ensare our quarry using magic.

[He smiles over at Rip before gesturing for her to take lead.]

Nevertheless, we better make haste. On your lead, huntress.

[Lancer allows a wordless sound of acknowledgement at the apology - he knows Augustine, at least, understands where he is coming from and the acknowledgement of who he was in life goes some way to letting him shrug off the shackles of what history has twisted him into.

At least, enough to focus on the mission at hand. Dealing with Dracula was not a necessary part of this, provided they move quickly, and this is after all a part of working and living in Everglade.

He listens carefully as the others explain what they are able to do, flashing a concerned glance at Augustine at the growl he hears but not drawing attention to it. There'll be time for that later, hopefully.]

Well, if that is the case then I shall be mindful of where I position myself. While I am perfectly capable of fighting with this weapon alone, I cannot be certain how such a power would work against someone such as myself and I would also prefer to have at least some of my own abilities accessible to me.

[Even without his Demonic Defender of the State ability active, he'd at least like access to the Noble Phantasm he doesn't object to having. Not to mention he's not even sure what the outcome would be of magic-erasing power hitting a Heroic Spirit.

He turns to Rip, then, head bowed in acknowledgement of her desire to take lead.]

If you would, please.

[Aizawa watched the small quarrel between the three. So Lance was offended somehow. Aizawa was starting to suspect Lance's true identity. He remained silent during that. The silent type, for now.

He shrugged when Augustine explained the quirk and his experience.]

As he said, more to magic and ability enhancers. Any natural skills are unaffected. I'm a mage's worst nightmare.

[Which explained most of the bounties picked up in Fayren was by him, and perhaps some hint to the eye drops he posted earlier. He nodded to each member as they laid out their position.]

I'll keep it in mind.

[It was important to know what each person could do and their capabilities. Having that in mind, Aizawa was more prepared for this. He nodded to Rip, he was ready as well.]

Ve vampires never go quietly into zhe night. I'm expecting a fight at zhe very least. Just don't aim for zhe head or heart und zhey vill probably survive for us to collect zhe bounty.

[She glanced from Lancer to Augustine, trusting the two of them to figure things out and with Eraserhead...Rip smirked slightly as she waited for them to be ready.

Once they all agreed, she was off. By now Rip was well acquainted with the Everglade and every dark hidden corner it contained. Especially those that lead to various subarchways considering there were two she visited regularly enough.

It took her a little bit to find a trail and then she was off, leading the way through the town with hopefully the men keeping up. One thing should be very obvious...Rip really did know what she was doing. Finding prey was simply second nature to the huntress and that was exactly what these three vampires were to her!

There were a few moments where she seemed to have lost the trail, circled back and rediscovered it. Very soon, they were close and Rip paused with a small smirk.]

...I've hunted dragons harder to track zhen these three idiots. Now, how shall ve trap zhem? Zhey aren't far und seem to haf stopped in zhe building up ahead.

[Of course Augustine can keep up with the huntress. However, he had to switch forms in order to do so. In bright flash of crimson light, the dhampir quickly vanishes only to be replaced by a bushy tailed fox. The fox trots along after Rip, close upon her heels as it keeps sniffing around for any sign of the trio. Even when Rip did lose track, the red fox follows close behind.

When the huntress comes to a slow halt, that's when the same light from earlier engulfed the fox.]

They're not very subtle now are they? [Augustine questions now that he returned to usual form.] That might be in our favor but don't underestimate them yet.

[He crouches low beside several bushes and peers in-between the leaves to spot what seems to be one of the trio out on his lonesome. The vampire in question is a rather young looking bloke, around twenty or so in appearance but perhaps several centuries older than that. Tall with dark hair and piercing red eyes much similar to Augustine's but without the black. He seems to be pacing along the weathered path leading to the building Rip mentioned.]

He's the lookout. [Augustine whispers to the others.] A fellow mage no less. I can sense his aura even from here.

[He tears his gaze away from the vampire and over towards the others.]

If we charge in, he'll undoubtedly alert the others inside. I suggest that we use Eraserhead---[He scoffs.]---to erase his powers momentarily before attempting to arrest him.

[He shoots the hero a quick glance.] Is that suitable?

Edited 2018-08-13 23:09 (UTC)

[Lancer doesn't expect the transformation he sees, though given that Augustine is a mage it is easy enough to rationalise. Especially with his focus largely on ensuring that he does not fall behind as Rip sets to work in tracking down their foe.

He can't quite make pace with them. But he doesn't lose them, at least, and he is at least tuned into Augustine's mana presence enough that he doesn't have to worry about losing sight of them.

Another reason to ensure he does not land himself directly in Eraserhead's line of sight.

As they slow to a stop, Lancer steps forward to observe alongside Augustine. All the while he's listening to the proposed plan his gaze does not leave the vampire, his mind still working to consider all available tactics.

At Augustine's question, even as it isn't wholly directed at him, Lancer speaks up.]

Might I make one additional suggestion? Since there is a chance that disabling him will draw his attention in this direction, perhaps it wouldn't hurt to have someone slip behind to ensure we are able to corner him. Perhaps someone who may take a form likely to go unnoticed.

[Augustine, he means you. Now he knows about that particular talent, it's only natural Lancer would incorporate it into whatever strategy they can manage before chaos erupts.]

[Thankfully, no one has to worry about death on Eraser's side. He was trained more for stealth missions and one-to-one combat. As always, Eraser observed each party member more, learning from each of them. This party was filled with some blood lust, perhaps Eraser was the only one who hasn't taken a life.

He stayed behind, but in front of Lancer as Rip began to track them. Augustine as a fox... Eraser left that alone. ~~Don't change to a cat.~~ He could had joined the two and made haste, but he didn't see the reason for that. The huntress well on her own, and the fox was with her.

When they arrived, Eraser pulled his goggles up above his eyes to get a better view. When the Vlads discussed their ideas, Eraser quietly listened. He was fine with both plans, it only meant he had to be careful not to erase Augustine's.

He had his own idea too, but... he didn't mind rolling with this.]

That's fine. The Lookout will feel vulnerable regardless.

[Even if he turned off his quirk, people made a horrible mistake to assume their power was gone during his presence, which wasn't exactly true.

A beat.]

Or I can pull him here swiftly too. Whichever works.

[Then interrogation time.]

Edited 2018-08-14 10:24 (UTC)

[Rip was so cuddling that fox later after this mission was done. With that thought aside, she glanced to the other three as they figured out what to do while she kept her eyes and ears on the lookout and the building behind him.]

If ve are going to draw him here, zhen I could easily just go flirt vith him.

[Idle suggestion and partially a joke as she glanced to Augustine.]

Eizher vay, once ve get him, ve should be ambushing zhe others as quick as possible to catch zhem off guard. Four against two are better odds zhan three against four.

[Though, admittedly Rip might be looking forward to an interrogation if they decide to do that. To say Rip has killed before might be a little bit of an understatement.... just like saying that she also enjoyed the hunt might be a little bit of an understatement. ]

[A form that will not likely be unnoticed? Augustine shoots Lancer a smirk at that suggestion. So, he's been signed up for recon work, eh? That's fine by him. Augustine plans to earn his keep, so he complies.]

I volunteer my services for that, Lancer. [He responds with a playful smirk.] I know just the form I could take.

[This sorcerer has a bag full of tricks. Augustine doesn't necessarily need his demons to pave a path for him. He's a trained mage.]

Don't you even think about flirting with that mutt unless you want my fangs to rake over his throat, dear. [He warns Rip with a hint of jealousy in his tone.] We need them alive, don't we?

[Without further deliberation, Augustine suddenly vanishes in a brief flash of red light and in his place is a beautiful multicolored moth. The moth flutters around Lancer and Aizawa briefly before choosing to land upon Rip's nose.]

I'll go on ahead and scope out the perimeter. [His voice is quiet like a whisper within the depths of their mind. Telepathy is a useful tool.] Choose however you want to capture this fool. Just make sure to make him talk.

[He hops off her nose with a dainty hop before flying towards the direction of the building up ahead. Despite it's colorful wings, the moth is utterly undetected by the scout standing outside. When he finally reaches a ledge upon the building, the moth crawls inside.]

The lighting is poor but I see them. [He announces while idly scaling the wall.] But instead of two, there's three.

[A breath.]

They have a hostage.

It will not be four against two, at any rate. Someone will have to ensure that this one does not escape while we deal with his allies.

[Which doesn't do much to help the odds, but Lancer would rather look at things realistically. True, between them they could probably rough him up enough to make him not an issue but having not dealt with vampires before, Lancer is leery of taking that risk.

He thinks it over further, nodding to himself as he untangles the puzzle. This would be so much easier with his Demonic Defender of the State active but he'll have to make the best of what he has.]

All right. Flirting may be out of the question but Rip may still perhaps distract him. Since she is not susceptible to Eraserhead's abilities that will allow him to still do what he must and meanwhile I can see about cutting off any further escape routes.

[At least, that's the idea while they don't know anything further. It's when Augustine heads off and reports back the complication of a hostage that he has to reconsider. The ruthless side of him says that recovering the hostage alive is optional but that would make him no better than a monster, no better than the hateful beast they assumed the vampires might seek shelter from.

He speaks out loud, though still transmitting his thoughts as well - he is used to telepathy, at least, as a Servant.]

All the more reason for us to get the scout away as quietly as possible. I would not put it past them to slaughter their hostage the moment they hear any evidence that they have been found. I will seek to make my way closer, unless my presence is particularly required in dealing with this one.

[Otherwise he feels splitting the team evenly is probably the way to go with this one.]

[Rip wasn't the only one with suggestive methods to distract information when needed. Eraser leaned more to direct methods when time was in the essence. He continued to listen the words between Augustine and Rip. He wished they could take it seriously.

Then when Augustine transformed to an insect, Eraser simply stared. He's used to various types of quirks, but one person with various quirks, not really. Augustine was a mage after all. It was bad when he heard an echo in his head. Aizawa placed a hand over his ear when Augustine spoke telepathy.

It was when Augustine mentioned 'hostage', his stomach turned as he kept his cool. That will be his assignment.]

That's fine. Then I can tie him up and go from there. As for the hostage, I rather make that my first priority.

[He was a hero, citizens first.]

[She rolled her eyes at Augustine's comment though she might be smiling a little. At least she knows he cares. ]

Fine, no flirting.

[Incidentally, this was Rip being serious as she kept an eye on the lookout while Augustine did recon. Though hearing there was a hostage and then glancing to the other two...]

Haf I mentioned how much I hate rescue missions? Because I really do.

[She sighs softly.]

Look, figure out vat ve are doing fast or I'm rushing in und taking out zhe look out my vay und I vill not lie, it vill be messy und brutal.

Zhen lets figure out zhe hostage situation. Zhough, if I'm going in zhere, I'm not going to guarantee zhe vill come out unscathed depending on vat happens.

[Augustine couldn't help but chuckle a little. All this plotting and planning but no action? It's time to get this show on the road. Lancer's plan seems sound enough. Letting Rip take out the scout while Eraserhead disables that vampire mage's magic. That would give Lancer and him enough time to rush inside but maybe they should let Eraserhead work on saving the hostage.

Decisions, decisions. Augustine takes a moment to ponder all scenarios before giving the orders. They need to catch these vampires. They mustn't escape, not after what they've done.

His blood starts to boil when he thinks about it. This mission hits too close...]

Huntress. [He's talking to Rip.] Take him out but don't let him make a sound.

[Augustine is confident she can handle the scout but now for the hostage--] Aizawa--I mean...um, forget it. I'm calling you "Aizawa". That hero name is ridiculous--go save the hostage. They're close to the window on the right hand side. Think you can grab them?

[He remembers how that bastard hoisted him up when Dante and Aizawa questioned him. That was such a humiliating moment.]

Lancer, do you think you an provide Aizawa support--

[Just when he says that, a blood curdling scream shatters the fragile peace. The vampires inside the building are torturing the woman they've kidnapped. One of them hacking off the woman's arm with a vicious meat cleaver of the blade. When blood sprays upon the wall, Augustine's mind goes blank.
The senseless brutality triggers him and within mere moments the mage is already exchanging blows with their quarry.

A loud explosion rocks the very foundation of the building as the windows shatter. All hell just broke loose. The others better jump in now.]

[Tactician now as he's always been, it's in Lancer's nature to plan before diving in; he is no Berserker who needs no plan but to do as they wish. But time is indeed of the essence, so he plans no objection to Augustine's words. If Augustine and Rip both believe her capable of handling the scout alone then Lancer will defer to their better knowledge and if Eraserhead - Aizawa, apparently - wishes to focus on the hostage then that is probably for the best.

And then there's the scream, and the explosion and all hints of stealth are thrown from the window. With Augustine so clearly already engaged, it falls to Lancer to finish those thoughts, command coming naturally to him as it always has.]

Rip, make sure the scout doesn't get away to call more reinforcements. Eraserhead and I will go to Augustine and Eraserhead will return to you once he has the hostage.

[Not a question. Both because the hostage needs to be out of the battlezone as soon as possible and because both Augustine and Lancer need magic to aid them, where Rip has made clear she does not.

And he doesn't wait for an answer. The only final pause he takes is to drink one of the mana potions he brought with him, just to make sure he has plenty to draw from once he enters the fray. After that, he's charging towards the building for the nearest way in, whether that be door or window. He's trusting that Aizawa will follow, but he also isn't planning on leaving Augustine alone in there any time soon.

If nothing else, he figures a stab of his spear into a foot will go some way towards slowing one of the two down.]

[Honestly, he didn't care if some of them cared about rescues, it was something Aizawa planned to do as well as support. Still, he rather them cooperate.

Before Aizawa could put his two cents words in with Augustine, the blood scream of a woman caught his attention. Damn, they stalled enough. He didn't mind taking Lancer's lead, it was time to act. He put the goggles back on first. The scarfs around his neck levitated and extended out, as if it was alive or commanded by the Eraserhead himself. They indeed played a significant role.]

Let's go.

[That said, he launched himself off the ground to air and followed along side with Lancer. He made sure Lancer was in his blind spot in case he needed to activate his quirk. The window felt the better place to approach, so Aizawa hoisted himself in the air using his scarf. He even tossed another one towards Lancer to catch as well, and hoist the Servant up to the window as well. Soon both of them would be flying in from that window where the source of the scream came from. If anything, Aizawa was ready to activate his quirk right after their invasion.]

[Rip was about to do as she was told when she heard that delightful bloodcurdling scream. A rather unsettling smile graced her features as she seemed to shift into something a little more predatory with blood spilled so soon.]

Lancer, call me if you need to corral Auggie. He von't hurt me even if he iz not thinking straight.

[Despite her saying that, her own body language showed her to be very eager for the fight to come. There were reasons Rip mentioned not letting her near the hostage. Her bloodlust was one of those reasons though, she was controlling it more than she used to at least.

Without another word, she sprang into action just as Lancer and Aizawa ran off.

For her part of the mission, she focused purely on the scout who had been looking back at the house like he wanted to join in. However, in that moment where he wasn't looking, Rip was dashing in quicker than most humans could move and was very quickly on him.

If they were paying any attention to Rip's fight, she was brutal and vicious as she pounce and might have taken pleasure in her little fight, taunting and brutally breaking bones of vampire who obviously didn't have her rather colorful experience in war and fighting in general.

Where Rip knew she couldn't hold her own against some, this vampire was so far beneath her it was.. hilarious to her. Even with the mages magic, she was somehow anticipating the spells and dodging. Though there were a few that hit and managed to knock her back, only to have her growl and rushed back in to the fray.

However, there were a few spells that.. did get an adverse reaction from Rip. Those pertaining to fire tended to make her put distance between her and the mage vampire and despite her fear of fire, the fact that he was using it against her pissed her off, leading to a rush attack where she viciously started breaking bones and nearly destroying the vampire mage's hands and arms in her anger.

By the time she was done, he wasn't going anywhere which left Rip prowling the outside of the hideout to make sure no one escaped while the rest fought inside.

Part of her wondered if she needed to calm down a certain lover of hers after this was over.]

[Lancer and Aizawa literally leap right into a proverbial warzone by the time they came through the window. Several fireballs whizzed by their heads as Augustine continues to battle with their quarry. It's a two against one, the dhampir being the "one" here.

One of the vampires was a woman with sleek black hair and bright red eyes that look similar to Augustine's. The red amulet around her neck spoke of her affiliation to the magical arts while her companion, another male vampire was trying to keep Augustine busy with a pair of cleaver-like blades. He's huge in size, much taller and more muscular than the scout outside. This bastard is probably related to the mage judging how they both have three black hair and red eyes. Probably the female vampure's sibling judging by how earnestly he was trying to protect his sister from Augustine. Nevertheless, none of that seems to matter as Augustine drew up his sword to parry the incoming blow.

The dhampir knocks the big guy back with a swift kick before launching a few more powerful spells at him. Several bright red glyphs swarm around in front of Augustine before unleashing a torrent of fire upon the vampire siblings. The female mage tries to cancel his spell with a hastily made blue barrier of light but the flames are too strong. Within mere seconds the barrier shattered like glass and the woman let's out an awful cry. Her brother swoops in to save her by tossing his dagger right at Augustine.

Meanwhile, the victim they were torturing is a lying within a pool of her own blood with half her arm hacked off. The woman is still alive judging from her swallow breathing but not for long if they don't staunch the bleeding. Seems that this trio likes torturing their prey. The victim looks haggard and weak. It's as if the two were using her as a proverbial blood bank.]

[As soon as he lands from that leap through the window, Lancer's on alert to take in the situation. When he spots the hostage he spares only the briefest glance to Aizawa.]

There. I'll make sure they're too distracted to pay attention to you.

[With that said, he's lunging towards the main melee, spear sweeping in a bid to knock the female off her feet before she can recover from the break in her spell. The scent of blood and flame in the air stirs memories of another time, another era but it also stirs reminder of what they are actually here for.

He doesn't have much room to spare glances; he's not sure whether the man will prioritise his fight with Augustine or the need to protect his sister but he's at least determined to get the woman pinned. Even so, his voice cuts through the melee with all the authority and command of the old king leading his troops.]

Augustine. Remember our goal.

[He doesn't spell it out. He doesn't want their enemies knowing they're pulling their punches. But he also does need to make sure Augustine remembers that they are not to leave with the bounties dead.

But that doesn't make Lancer any less ruthless. When the woman first drops, he keeps his spear trained on her but that's not the only plan he has to keep her in place; he's quick to bring his foot down on her thigh, drawing on his magic reserves so that the unmistakable sound of something piercing flesh joins the battle's song, persistent enough that she cannot wrench herself free without considerable injury.

Unless Aizawa happens to send his nullifying gaze this way. That's what he has the spear for. And for all his attention is focused on the woman for now, Lancer is poised in such a way as to suggest he's fully prepared should her brother attempt to touch him now - because if he does, there's more spikes where the first came from.]

[Oh, he clearly understood why Rip wasn't fond with rescue missions. He didn't approve much of Rips tactics, but it wasn't time to judge. Aizawa had done stuff similar, like for interrogations. Even in battle, he still analyse the battle and the participants.

Once landed inside, Aizawa nodded and leaped to where the young hostage was. First priority was to stop the bleeding, and he got enough scarfs for that. He touched the woman's arm gently, she fidgeted which Aizawa could emphasize. He assured to the woman she was safe now, and the began to treat her wound. Aizawa wrapped her severed arm with some of his cloth scarf, cut it, and cut another to knot on her upper arm to stop the circulation. Once done, Aizawa picked her up over his shoulder, and leaped back to the window and perched on it's frame.

Lancer seemed to have it under control, those spikes though, it sent a chill down his back. Augustine had back up, so he was fine. Mage and fighter battle this was becoming, and Aizawa had no doubts about Lancer's fighting style and ability.

He took a moment for the men to see Aizawa had secured the hostage and he would be off, for now. Aizawa saw no reason to nullify anyone right now. The woman vampire mage was pinned and Lancer needed his spikes to go against the bigger guy. He gave a salute, and hopped off the building. Soon, Aizawa would swing in where Rip was holding the woman on one shoulder.]

Hostage secured. Lancer is with Augustine. Yourself?

[As he waited a report from Rip, he set the woman down by a tree, taking a bottle out, a minor healing potion no doubt from Fayren. He tilted he woman's chin up to get her to drink some to get her at least stabled with the blood loss.]

[When he came out, Rip might have just finished prowling the area around the building and listening to the fight inside. With blood in the air, she found herself having to concentrate a little more to keep her desire to destroy and devour at bay.

They didn't need a bloodbath here, at least, not like the one she was thinking of.

So when Aizawa arrived, she was focused on trying to distract herself from the scent of fresh human blood near her. ]

A little annoying und singed but, fine. How iz zhe fight inside going? Do zhey need assistance or do zhey haf it handled?

[She glanced towards the hostage, looking her over briefly though her gaze did linger on the injured arm longer than she should have. It might even make the hostage a little uneasy.

Eventually she turned her head away to gaze towards the building as she kicked the mage at her feet who groaned in agony. ]

Don't vorry, zhis one von't be going anyvhere anytime soon.

[Not with how badly she broke his arms and legs and was tempted to break more. As much as her bloodlust was rearing its head, the reason for this hunt did hit a little close to home.]

Und I zhink zhey vill be rethinking killing another vampires human lover after zhis.

[That command nearly stops Augustine cold. His blade falters briefly as he swipes at the rogue vampire. The very edge of his sword skims right past the bastard's ear when he pressed forward with a powerful thrust. He could've taken the vampire's head clean off with that strike but thankfully Lancer called out to him.

They're not suppose to execute them but rather arrest them. That's the purpose behind their mission.

Augustine remembers it and takes up a more defensive stance when the big guy lunges at him with those dual blades. This battle has nothing to do with the injustice his mother and father incurred. Nothing at all. While the circumstances are undeniably similar, Augustine can't allow himself to get caught up in his emotions.

With the sister down and pinned by Lancer and the scout outside completely wrecked by Rip, this trio is doomed. The big guy notices this but instead of trying to save either, the bastard attempts to flee. He knocks Augustine down briefly with a few well timed strikes before surprising the mage with a flat out punch to the chin. He then pushes the dhampir out the way and makes a run for the opposite window.

Slightly staggered by that sudden punch but not out yet, Augustine attempts to stop him.]

No, you don't---

[In just mere seconds, that sterling silver blade suddenly morphs into a red whip within a flash of light. The crack of the whip is as noisy as thunder as Augustine swings it. It would've been a lethal strike if he hadn't curved it towards the vampire's leg. Before that son of bitch could leap out the window, he gets yanked back.]

Secure him now! [He shouts as he does his best to keep his hold upon the whip.]

[For so long as he's able, Lancer's attention is split between keeping the woman pinned, ensuring Aizawa is able to escape with the hostage unhampered and on making sure Augustine is not overpowered by the brute assailing him. The woman attempts to escape, of course, switching from threats to pleas and back again with an ease that Lancer would almost admire if it didn't sicken him so.

It's enough that he risks a bend to one knee, just enough to allow him to position himself so that he might generate more spikes to keep her in place - mostly towards her legs, the better to hamper her movement as much as he can. He's not sure how long they'll last if he moves away, since he's not tapped into the local leylines enough to make them really effective, but he's more than willing to live up to his name as Impaler.

And then there's that yell from Augustine, the crack of the whip and Lancer flashes a menacing glare to the woman, using his spear to impale her torso in a manner that will be painful, doubtless, but certainly not lethal - and hard enough that she won't be getting away from its grip until he reclaims the weapon.

That'll come in a moment. For now, he lunges at the big guy who's too busy struggling against the whip to realise what that means until Lancer's hands are at his shoulders and he finds himself impaled along arms and legs, staring up into a face that might be enjoying this fight a little too much.

Augustine, too, might catch a glimpse of that expression before the more reserved mask of leadership returns.]

Might I entrust him to you? The woman has something of mine I really ought to retrieve.

[Aizawa doesn't plan to leave the rescued hostage there. The poor woman would wake up traumatized, and then there was that sever arm. Thankfully he knew someone who could help get her arm back. It was nice to have some connections again. The woman was still passed out and hopefully it would stay that way. She probably scream if she saw another vampire.]

They should be fine.

[He glanced over at the scout. Poor guy must had seen better days. He did take a glance at Rip, something felt a little different. Maybe it was because Rips was a vampire, or the way she walked differently, she was a Huntress. Aizawa shrugged it off.]

I won't stop if you want to go anyway. I can take over from out here.

[More than anything, Rip gave off the aura of a predator right now. After all she was a Huntress.. a former soldier and a Pirate. To say Rip's known conflict her entire life might be an understatement.

But, she was keeping herself in check as much as possible while she kept her eyes on the building before them. Yes, part of her wanted to rush in. But, she trusted that Augustine could take care of himself and with Lancer in there, she had no doubt they would be victorious in their goals.]

I know. But, I zhink.. zhey haf it handled. If I go in now, I may zimply get in zhe vay or accidentally kill our prey. My own abilities vould only add confusion into zhe mix if zhey vere used right now.

[A slight smirk settles upon Augustine's lips once Lancer impala the man with those nifty crimson spikes. There's something mildly euphoric about watching the old king lose a little. It reminds him all the stories he heard about Vlad the Impaler during his crusade against the Ottomans. While at first he doubted that Lancer had any link to the man, Augustine quickly came to realize that he does.

It's fascinating but now isn't the time for him to stand in awe.]

Of course!

[He quickly chimes in as he uncurls that whip from around the brute's leg. The red whip quickly dissolves into blood, the red droplets sloppy spilling to the floor. Augustine used his Blood Magic ability to form those weapons. It's a dangerous practice since he feels a little ill now but he'll manage.]

I can handle it from here, Lancer. [He takes out a handkerchief from his pocket to wipe off the blood upon his hands.] It's best that we rendezvous with the others soon.

[The mage briefly sends a telepathic message to the others.]

All targets secured. Is the hostage well? Best that we make our way back to town.

[Lancer nods in acknowledgement of Augustine's response, bracing against the man he currently has pinned to help push himself back to his feet. This is the first time he's fought without a Master to draw mana from, without a steady back-up source to support him, and even with the depths of his reserves he's starting to think he's more or less running on adrenaline now.

Not that he'll let it show. The impassive mask settles as he returns to the woman, gripping his spear with both hands and pulling it free with force enough that even if she had been recovering enough coherence to think about casting, she won't be for much longer.]

Indeed. The hostage needs medical care and these three need to be taken to where they belong.

[He stoops to lift the woman, then, throwing her over his shoulder as a hunter might a slain deer because she needs her life but her dignity is not a necessity. Not after what she and her allies have wrought.

That done, he moves for the doorway, eyes scanning for the others and for Aizawa in particular.]

Eraserhead. May we entrust that woman to your care? I will ensure you are not denied credit for your part in this.

[He's not sure if everyone involved needs to be present at the hand-over but he figures Aizawa won't want to delay the woman's care just for that.]

[Aizawa nodded to Rip with a better understanding. He wanted to leave that decision on the table for Rip at least. That answer alone gave Aizawa more of an idea about Rip. Aizawa was always studying people, it was something he was good at and get a better idea of what to expect, and if he needed to lend a hand to calm the Huntress one day.

He leaned against the tree, arms crossed and waited, until he got a call from his head. Aizawa rested one hand on the side of his head as he listened.]

Recovering from the shock, but fine, for now.

[Thankfully the hostage was still passed out. There were two vampires in the party, the last thing they need was the hostage to recover from a faint to find more.

When the two remaining parties returned, Aizawa stood in silent. The bounty hunt was finally over. Aizawa stared towards Lancer when he was called out, and gave a nod.]

That I can. You can send my share to the woman as well. I trust you all with the rest.

[Just as Lancer predicted, the hostage was indeed Aizawa's first priority. He picked the woman up gently, the bridal way. He bowed his head forward to the team.]

If you all would excuse me.

[Aizawa turned around, pushed off one foot and launched himself to a quick sprint. He moved faster than an average human. Job was a job, he didn't like wasting time.]

[Rip was quiet, just waiting for their companions to reappear without much else to say. Though once Augustine and Lancer came into view, she stood a little straighter and seemed to focus more on Augustine than she did Lancer.

Then again, with blood so thickly in the air.. Rip was exerting as much control as possible on herself. She barely noted Aizawa leave with the girl and soon set into motion herself, grabbing the scout with the broken limbs and dragging him by one of his broken arms to the other two.]

Lets get rid of zhese... und zhen Auggie, I'm stealing you for a little private time.

[Augustine was currently dragging that big lummox out by the scruff of his neck. It's a mildly comical sight since he's about a foot or so smaller and much lankier than him but the dhampir manages. He throws the poor bastard onto the ground with unceremonious flair before the rest of this motley crew. A job well done in his book despite all of the hiccups along the way.

He rubs his right wrist with a slight wince. Augustine is woefully out of practice when it comes down to combat. Being a pencil pusher has it's downsides.]

Farewell, Aizawa. [He states quickly before the hero could rush off with the victim in tow.] I suppose he means to pay her medical bills.

[Augustine can't help but smirk a little.]

That's quite kind of him.

[While is opinion of Aizawa is murky at best, Augustine won't deny that the man is a class act. Definitely more a hero than the three of them.]

Hm? [Augustine was digging the red heel of his boot into his bounty's back when he caught what Rip said. He arches his brow at her and purposely stomps the brute into the ground with little effort. The swearing and screaming is like music to his ears right now, so he keeps pressing his boot down upon the vampire's spine.]

Goodness, why does it sound like I'm in trouble?

[He peeks over at Lancer and just sighs.]

Again.

[It's been a rough week.]

Edited 2018-08-17 18:32 (UTC)

[Though he doesn't say it, Lancer can't help but agree with Augustine's assessment of Aizawa. With opinion not coloured by prior dealings, Lancer is free to observe Aizawa as the unfailingly heroic type, certainly closer in morality to other members of the Black Faction than he is to Lancer himself. All the more reason to be glad they hadn't turned him away back at the start, because Lancer's not sure what would have happened to the poor woman otherwise.

He's quiet, observing their quarry and delivering only the occasional very sharp admonishment to the woman if she so much as hints at trying to struggle free. But he's also observing his fellow hunters and though she has it contained, there's something in the way Rip holds herself that makes him think something's brewing under the surface.

Whether Augustine is at fault or more a means to an end, he couldn't say. But he'll offer the briefest flash of a sympathetic look to his alternate-history descendant before he speaks again.]

Well, then, let us be done with these as soon as we are able and then I can leave you two to your privacy.

[And he can go try to recover from his first Masterless fight as a Servant.

For now, he simply hefts the woman to make sure he still has a secure hold on her then turns to head for the Sheriff's office, without waiting for the others though he won't venture too far without being certain that they're following.]

[There was definitely something brewing under the surface as Rip harshly kicked her prey and made the poor vampire scream as she broke a few ribs. Admittedly, there was artistry in the way she broke bones and didn't have then break skin.

Then again, Augustine should have a good idea at just how strong his lover really was by now and unfortunately for him, his comment earned him a slight glare from the huntress and maybe the barest hint of a snarl.]

Fine. If you don't vish to help me tame zhe bloodlust vithin me after zhis, I'll go find zomeone else to haf brutal passionate sex vith or go on a slight killing spree. Eizher one vould vork.

[Sorry Lancer, but she's not in a mood to care about the sensibilities of others. Rip picks up her prey and slings him over her shoulder to the sounds of more screams from the poor vampire. Of the three, he really got the worse deal considering Rip was enjoying breaking as many bones as possible.

There are reasons Rip rarely took bounties and Augustine and Lancer were seeing why. Rip was brutal unless someone was there to curb her brutality.

From there, Rip started following Lancer back to the Sheriff's office. ]

[Wait what?]

Rip. [A tense sigh escapes him as he steps over his bounty's back.] Wait, I wasn't thinking of that---Rip.

[He gives Lancer a sheepish grin before turning to grab his bounty by the back of the neck again. The dhampir better catch up with her before the huntress really does plan on making good with her threat. The last thing he wants is to give people any more reason to fear his kind.]

Seems I've miscalculated that. Nevertheless, we're done here.

[Back to the sheriff department for them while their bounties are still breathing.]

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