towerofanimus | Log 022 | Monster Hunting

Entry tags:

Log 022 | Monster Hunting

Characters: Sephiroth, Any Monsters & Anyone Else
Setting: Floors 41 -43 - 45 as in below & Sub-threads - throughout the Monster ~~game~~ event (15th-26th June)
Format: Usual long-Prose, Action prompts as Sub-threads. Can switch.
Summary: Somewhat catch-all: The ~~ULTIMATE~~ Jail-cell Tactic & Sub-threads as described. [Open at any point to All] *OOC Note: This may turn into a 'running-log', depending on how the event progresses. I'll add more sub-threads/update the date range/warnings later. Sephiroth may not even keep this tactic up all event but this is the plan at least to start with.*
Warnings: Monsters-related fights/gore/injury/death. Sephiroth-related general warning.

Well clearly then, he's been playing the game wrong.

Though he's fairly sure that the first monster hadn't gotten back up after being decapitated Sephiroth hadn't hung around to check. Fact remains, it was becoming more and more dangerous every night after dark and more monsters had to be coming from somewhere. He'd started out so keen to hunt them all down personally if that's what it took to end this silly game.

Then there had been Ruana, taunting them all from the safety of the network. Though at least that had been a relatively good use of his time. He'd have to start putting monsters to people before this would get any more out of hand; not just for his own personal safety around the Tower anymore though. No, just to prove that he could do it. He could win. This game called strongly to a part of him that he'd spent a lot of effort keeping in check and only indulging in when it suited, that part that liked to kill. There was a certain jubilation in asserting enough control over another being to have the power to end it's life.

Each victory. Even against the usual fare of monsters in the Tower, reminded Sephiroth that despite the limited containment within the Tower, his skills weren't suffering as a result. He's still as sharp as the first day that he came here, perhaps more-so on account of what he- or rather, his soul- has ~~learned~~ experienced here.

There was a tactic that begged to be tried, but it could only work under the right set of delicate circumstances.

Step One, find a monster.
Step Two, capture/lure, or otherwise incapacitate/kill said monster and drag it to the 43rd Floor
Step three, throw it in a cell until morning
Rinse and repeat.

Then he'd deal with whomever turned out to be a monster, after they turned back.

Simple right? Not really. There was the question of how many floors around the jailcell floor he could afford to monitor whilst at the same time making sure (provided he caught one) that nothing somehow came out of somewhere to release the monster. Dealing with one at a time was bad enough, and sitting all night guarding one jail cell for one monster per night wouldn't be enough. Other monsters could be making more even as he ensured one wouldn't. On the other hand, Sephiroth knew he'd have big problems dealing with more than one of those at a time if they did get loose again before day. He might be an expert, appreciating of the challenge as well but he figured it'd take them all of a few seconds to rip him to pieces.

What a way to go. Though if this proves fruitful...

Sephiroth had settled for patrolling the stairwells between Floor 41 and Floor 45 to see how well this plan could be worked. Two up from the Jails, two down. Seemed logical. Floor 41 is an elevator-serving floor, this would be where the monsters could get under his radar. He wouldn't even have to step onto the floor much to launch a fireball at a mask if he saw one dancing inside the swarming, crushing mass of insects - just to attract attention before darting up the stairs. Floor 42 could be looked in on but he'd best be careful if one managed to chase him in there, he's not too sure about the extent these monsters disable powers but his telekinetic flight would be crucial there. He'd avoid leaving the stairwell on this Floor where possible. Up to Floor 44 and 45 would be patrolled as well just in case any one of them would come down behind him.

15th - 21st June Prompts:
A Bathroom Infirmary Cafeteria Dormitory Level 3 - Dorm 03-02

June 20th: 3rd Floor Library

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[Sephiroth's eyebrows come together for a moment at Lancelot's answer, curious though not for long enough to indicate a passed judgment. He's only vaguely aware of the Master/Servant arrangement of some of those in the Tower. Personally he doesn't care for it, being only ever out for himself.]

Even in a place like this you would live for others. [He comments, continuing to wrap his hand up with the fresh bandage. It makes him feel more than a little disgusted, knowing that once upon a time he was much the same - so blindly following a duty but not knowing all the facts.]

It's no such real hurt after all. And monster hunting carries it's risks.

[At least there were no more monsters to fight tonight. With his mangled left arm throbbing painfully Sephiroth was already forcing his own regeneration not to rush into repair mode too far. He might need the energy later, besides, it had to be morning soon.

The next time he passes the cell, he'll stop to observe the red-headed teenager but will remain silent. The calm before the storm, his face expressionless as he lingers fingers of his good hand on the release button; as if considering if he even would fill in some of the blanks for the guy.]

If she were really saving people from destroyed worlds, that would be a purpose. A noble one, too.

...but no one could call this saving.

[She sighs and folds her arms over her chest. It must be difficult for Ruana too, being so old and being stuck in a place like this. But that doesn't change the way she's tormented all these people. Sheba's not sure she can forgive her for that and it shows in her expression.

Her frown deepens after a moment, and she nods begrudgingly.]

That's right, we don't. I'd think it would be that we'd lose if everyone becomes monsters, but... if it turns out that we lose if any monsters are still alive at the end of the month...

[If that were the case, they were right on track for a loss.]

[Luke doesn't know the other guy's intentions, but Sephiroth is outside the cell and he's inside, so of course he's going to ask for help. Sorta.]

Hey, are you the one who stuck me in here?

[Depending on how easily Sephiroth volunteers information, his next question will probably be 'why?']

[The monster seems disappointed. Its laughter is less euphoric now and much more derisive and bitter.

It turns to pursue Sephiroth down the stairs, leaving a trail of blood where it steps. It's clearly fatigued, but unwilling to give up just yet. Sephiroth isn't dead yet. It hasn't felt the oh-so-satisfying crunch of bones under its teeth, hasn't torn him limb from limb and devoured his entrails. And it so wants that.

The wing seems to surprise it, but not for long. It hurls itself down the stairwell after Sephiroth, jaw open wide to try and get a mouthful of black feathers.]

I've never considered this to be a rescue. This is an imprisonment.

[That's what he thought to start with all those months ago but allowed himself to get over. Everything had seemed so real it'd even had him fooled, he'd been at least a part grateful to have for himself a physical form again. Which the Tower has used and abused at every opportunity it seems. Not anymore.]

My spirit is mine to do with as I will. Not to be played with.

[He mummers, mostly to himself. Sephiroth is purposefully avoiding eye contact with Sheba while his inherent anger simmers away inside. It's so easy to spark that hot rush recently, he has to be careful it doesn't dictate his actions but on the other hand - it's so tempting.]

Whatever happens, I'd rather not put her in a more superior position than what she has already attained for herself.

That's right.

[Sephiroth is curiously looking over Luke, as if he might be able to figure out what might make this one susceptible to turning where he is not. Apart from the obvious of course, Luke seems human enough and they are a weaker species.

Maybe this time, Sephiroth's will has managed to overcome the admins control in light of the fact that he knows the truth of his existence now and his spirit naturally would retaliate. This inkling would have to be tested later, as if true he would be a fool not to take the advantage. For now, well, Sephiroth doesn't bother to hide the smirk that creeps across his face as he backs up from the cell. Monster or not, he's going to enjoy this.

If Luke's going to try and make him pause, he'd better have a good question quickly. Masamune is already held fast in both hands, though leading with his right on account of his mauled left forearm. A thought at the release button might be enough to open the cell and then it'd be over as quickly as Sephiroth could deliver a deathblow.]

[Landing is awkward, concentrating on balancing telekinetically whilst airborne and then having to adjust his weight so he wasn't putting too much on that ankle results in a overcompensated stumble to the floor once he stops levitating. The euphoria is wearing off, though he's still left with a bit of an afterglow which is causing problems with his usually focused concentration.

At least he's got to the 43rd floor now. Even if he kills the monster now, he can drag it's corpse and fling it into one of the cells-

Though instantly Sephiroth has hands underneath him to push him up from the floor; and his wing extended as if to help, the monster then pretty much lands on his back. He can feel it's jaws around the wing but gets rid of the same in much the same way Masamune was vanished - a plume of smoky, disintegrating feathers would be all the monster is chewing on.

Hopefully it's enough of a distraction at least for him to buck the monster off and make for the doorway onto the 43rd floor. Crawling first away before he can his good foot underneath him.]

[ How thoughtful of Sephiroth to not mention that. ]

Honestly, according to that woman's irrational logic, we are probably all as guilty as each other and if we aren't, she would harm us anyway. I cannot claim to understand how her mind works, beyond her obvious immaturity, delusions and selfishness. [ He sighed, tapped the keyboard. ] If we lose? I imagine all of the residents will suffer, or we will have to endure Ruana's unsightly gloating. If we win? I suppose a minority of the residents will suffer, and we will have to deal with retaliation from Runan.

[ Hidetoshi, with his back turned towards Sephiroth, does not see the older man wrapping up his marked hand or his tiny shrug, though if he had stopped and strained his ears, he could have heard the rustling of the bandages being used. ]

[Some things don't need to be said, though having shared a room with him for over 9 months(?) Hidetoshi most likely has an inkling of their differing morals. To say the least.]

It's not going to be the first time we've been made to end each others lives. [He finishes wrapping up his hand and gets to his feet, stretching up and cracking a few muscles in the process.] And I doubt it will be the last, either.

[Sephiroth pauses for a few moments. Maybe getting up now wasn't such a good idea. He's going to need to rest more for tonight, if he's going to last the tedious patrol up and down the same sets of stairwells. His body is arguing with him already, and he's only just gotten to his feet.]

So you're just going to wait it out, then.

That it does-- and in this place, one need not have such an overriding care for one's Life, after all.

[Lancelot half smirks at Sephiroth's remark. With what knowledge he has of the man, he imagines Sephiroth would be summoned as a Berserker himself. The idea amuses him as much as the near insult does not.]

I do not Live at all, as I am a Summoned Spirit-- but I am bound by Contract to my Master.
I will grant that I do in some way live for Him, though He lives as much for me-- as in our World, it is from him I draw the energy I use to fight his War.

Besides, it is a point of personal honor that I preserve his Life. I do not suffer defeat lightly.

Edited 2013-06-24 05:45 (UTC)

[He's a little creeped out at the staring and the scrutiny, stepping back from the cell door a couple paces.]

Why? And quit staring at me like that, it's creepy.

[Dammit tower. One minute he's trying to sleep in one of the lounges, and the next he's in a jail cell talking to a guy who may or may not be planning to stab him to death.]

[Sephiroth has heard something like this before. It's been a while ago but he pauses and considers for a few moments before suggesting. Slipping a leather glove back on over his hand and flexing his fingers.]

The Grail War, right? [He doesn't give Lancelot much chance to answer before continuing.] Technically we are all but spirits here. But I would not ever be bound to any such contract.

I would not serve anyone.

You'll figure it out.

[His tone definitely will allow Luke to tell what his intention is if it wasn't already clear. Sephiroth stretches out with his mind to press the release button and just gets close enough to be able to reach with his sword.

If nothing else it'll be over quickly. He's an expert in knowing exactly where to slice and stab for a quick end. Namely a small nick in exactly the right position just on the side of the neck, and then a clean skewer into the chest.]

[ Oh yes. Hidetoshi was quite aware of the differences in what he deems morally acceptable and what Sephiroth sees as morally acceptable, but (un?)fortunately, he was yet to actually realize the... extent of it. ]

A regular occurrence or not, I don't wish to do so if I can avoid it without consequences. [ There it is again, that small flicker of unease. He found the act of killing the regular monsters easy enough to commit; they were mindless, repulsive and a threat to the safety of others. But killing something that was still a person, whose crime was unwilling and forced by the rulers whom abused their responsibilities? He didn't want to, even if it was reversible in the Tower. A grumble; ] Now or in the future.

[ He finally looked over his shoulder at Sephiroth. ]

I will not stand by if I see another resident under attack, but yes. I am. [ ~~Mundane didn't sigh up him for it because she's not terribly interested in this event, ok.~~ ]

[Somethings are better left unknown, in this case. For now.]

Hm. [Though really he's not anything else to say in reply so he sits back down on the edge of his bed and starts to gather the odd bits of bandage together. Hidetoshi clearly wouldn't come out on the good side of a fight; based on his appearance at least. Sephiroth sees this uneasiness of his as a weakness, an advantage for someone else to take.]

I can understand that.[Not that he views it as an acceptable answer. Innocence is something quickly discarded to him.] Probably for the best.

Mm... [ He nodded and returned his attention to the computer and the network entries he was checking without personally commenting. It didn't sit right with him. A life was a life, wasn't it? It didn't seem... okay to do stuff like that, necessary or not, not to people. It made him uneasy.

Or something like that. And besides, he was in no rush to immediately go up against a monster and die over and over again. ]

It never hurts to be practical. [ Is what he says in response. Hidetoshi gets the sense Sephiroth does not approve of his answer, but he decided being a soldier must make the man feel rather disdainful to whose who didn't fight. Not that it mattered; he wasn't looking for Sephiroth's approval in anything. ]

I serve myself as much. For I was willing to be Summoned, as have my own Aims in this War-- [Though the longer he spends in this Place, the longer he spends in Sanity, the less desirable one Goal does seem. He shrugs, choosing instead to speak of the most obvious Reward of any War.] -- though Glory will be Mine, certainly. When I take the Cup for my Master.

Do you Serve only yourself then, even in your Home?

[That...doesn't make him feel much better. Dying is still dying, and the last time was quick too, but still extremely painful.

It's probably not a good idea to go get closer to Sephiroth again, but he does. Makes the yelling more effective.]

Tell me or let me out!

[Sephiroth doesn't really want to sit and consider the growing chasm of opinion opening between them with regard to the value of, and of the act of taking, life itself. He imagines it would mortify Hidetoshi if he revealed how many he had slaughtered in his life; work, revenge and pleasure. Nevermind that such a thing now has less than no value to Sephiroth, here in the Tower.

He tries not to smirk to himself picturing it. Thankfully Hidetoshi then commented again.]

No it doesn't. [The response a little on the flatter side. He's not hunting monsters because it's practical, he's not a hero.]

[Sephiroth listens, intently enough. It's always good to find out more about others' worlds. Even if he really doesn't understand why anyone would submit themselves to being summoned at any other persons will. Like a Summon, and it's Materia.

When Lancelot asks that last, Sephiroth can't help but crack a small smirk before he nods.]

Yes, very much so. I don't bend for anyone. [Current circumstances excused, of course.]

[As soon as Luke goes to step closer, Masamune is mercilessly swung at him in a long arch from the floor to the ceiling. There is no way he's letting Luke closer and if that means a messier-than-intended death then so be it.

Sephiroth is explaining nothing to the boy.]

[The monster looks vaguely confused when the wing vanishes and it's left with nothing more than smoky feathers. It looks at Sephiroth, and if its expression could speak, it would say, Why'd you take away my snack?

The man crawls towards the entrance to the jailcell floor and the monster pads after him before stopping dead in its tracks. It cocks its head to the side, makes a distressed-sounding noise, and then turns around and runs back up the stairs.

It is too close to morning. It needs to find somewhere safe, alone, to transform back. Sephiroth isn't ripped to shreds by the monster, but he doesn't have anything to show for it either.]

[ Finished with habitually checking the network entries as part of his routine, Hidetoshi clicks the keyboard a few more times, closing some open programs and logging out before the screen of the terminal went dark. ]

I'm glad you agree.

[ Sephiroth didn't appear to all that interested in the topic at hand anymore, given how his reply had edged on flat in its tone of voice. His back still turned to the older man, he rubbed his eyes, not looking forward to sleeping on the bench in one of the upper floors tonight again tonight. ]

[He's left lying on the floor of a stairwell waiting for the rest of the effects of the euphoria bite to wear off before moving. It'll be a long, tired, sometimes-limping climb back up to the Dormitories and his morning clean up.]

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Log 022 | Monster Hunting

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