Thursday, January 20, 2005
Rune Aeterna 4
Rune Aeterna (http://www.asheri.com/forums/index.php)
- (http://www.asheri.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?forumid=13)
-- (http://www.asheri.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=82)
Posted by Keiru Silver on 10-13-2001 08:47 PM
Sorry for the absence, I've been out of class and without an internet connection for a while. However, it kind of pains me to see that I haven't missed much. On the other hand, it shows how important my involvement is!
__________________
Welcome to my world...
Posted by Keiru Silver on 10-13-2001 08:47 PM
Sorry for the absence, I've been out of class and without an internet connection for a while. However, it kind of pains me to see that I haven't missed much. On the other hand, it shows how important my involvement is!
__________________
Welcome to my world...
Posted by Adamas Tribune on 10-13-2001 09:18 PM
Rublicant's head tilted upwards. "I... cannot be around you and Gaireth when the hunger takes me."
"Fair enough, but..." He stopped for a second, and almost cringed. "What was that?"
"I don't feel anything, Adamas."
"You didn't? I felt something... not a physical twinge, but like someone was tugging on... my magic."
"Huh?"
"No... nothing. Nevermind..."
The discussion continued on between Adamas and Rublicant, as he explained the finer points that had been left out of the note. Elsewhere, the ebb and flow of magic was interrupted for a moment, as something foreign distorted the fabric of energy...
__________________
Pride without arrogance,
Independance without dishonor.
Posted by Volsung on 10-15-2001 02:59 PM
Tomorrow We fight
The group than been sitting round eating most of the day telling stories about there lives and there training. In all of this Volsung finally found out the names of the other, two people who had been living with Met for all these years. The Woman who could use Earth Magic was called Leada. She had been sent to the island in the same way that Met had. The Other Man other could use water Magic was named Pylos and he had been an unsuspecting member of the Crew of the Ship witch brought Leada to the island of Greyon he lost many friends on the boat and being the only survivor, he blamed Leada, but Met says that Pylos had forgiven her.
After they had finished talking, Met and Volsung went into the basement where Met was going to show Volsung the Armory. “Volsung I have something to show you.”
“And what would that be, were only going to an armory are you going to give me a weapon!” Said Volsung is a sarcastic voice, but inside he had felt like he was missing something since Vesta had been broken so he was happy at he prospect of a replacement.
“Yes I am going to give you a weapon, and a very special weapon at that. You see when it is in your hands, you focus your KI magic into it, and it will glow sliver and will be able to cut anything. Well anything that isn’t magical, but even then it is very effective.” Then Met pulled out an old rusty blade. “Boy this thing has not been used in a long time.”
“That’s it! Why don’t I just use a regular sword?”
“Because as soon as it is used it shines like Sliver, if you tried to do this with a normal sword in would just melt.”
“Fine yet see.” With that, Met handed the Volsung the Sword. Then Volsung and Met walked out of the armory and into the courtyard.
“Now if you want to see that sword in it's true form just focuses your energy into the sword, but not to much or you wouldn’t be able to control it.” Volsung surprised by this.
“What do you mean?”
“Well that sword can make you stronger, but the more energy you put into it the less control you have over yourself. That is why that is this sword hasn’t been used in almost 800 years, but I think if you only put a little energy into it you can control it.”
“So, how much energy are we talking about?”
“Just a little and no more than that. You shouldn’t need anymore than that to show you its true form.” Volsung now shaking put the two handled sword in front of him and started forcing his energy into the sword. The rust started falling off and where every piece of rust fell from there was shinning Sliver. “Is just like I imaged it,” Said Met looking in al and wonder.
After the last piece of rest fell, off the blade, Volsung let go of the sword, it fell into the ground, and the sword turned a pale gray. Volsung soon fell to the ground right after it. “God that thing is strong, and it took everything that I had to keep control of it, it just wanted all of my power to go into battle, but I think I can control it with practice.”
“Good, I was hoping that you would say that. Now lets get some rest tomorrow we go into battle.”
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Aramus VanVehementi on 10-15-2001 03:47 PM
The second fall of Dargent
OOC: I must ferverently appologize for my delay. Midterms have been keeping me hopping. When am I gonna use African Art History?? Prolly never, but U of I feels its important for me to know. At any rate, without further adew... I present my completed Dargent Post. *please hold applause!*
IC:
Excitement was in the air as the Great Convention began. Thousands of men, women, and children had flocked in innumerable masses to the central park of New Dargent where a collective of businessmen had assembled for what was rumored to be the greatest of all bazaars. Captain Rivell, standing on one of the far city walls, watched in amusement as the endless parades of citizens bustled about the park; their bright clothing turning the landscape into a vibrant work of visual art. Rivell had made certain that only his men would be standing guard along the city walls and patrolling the park. All of Sarrofey’s men had been given the day off of active duty so that they might too enjoy the sights and sounds of the convention. With this tactic in place, Rivell would be able to pinch what little resistance might be offered in between of both the center and border of the city. ‘There should be very little struggle’ thought the Captain. He simply sat on the edge of his wall and bided his time. He would wait until the afternoon sun had sapped the strength from those that would fight back. As Rivell reflected on the plans, he revisited one point over and over: take the city as quickly and mercifully as you can. If they see we merely want their loyalty we stand a better chance of retaining their services for the future. He looked up into the sky to see the sun arching its way to the other side of the horizon. The time to strike was rapidly approaching…
“Men, you constitute the first wave of our pressing advance from sovereign soil. By the time you reach Lunis, Captain Rivell will have sacked New Dargent. You will march to the fallen city and using its protective border as a staging point, you will wane the invasion from within. If your respective commanding officers feel your advance is threatened by your target city, fall back to New Dargent. It is our foothold on this entire operation. We shall not let it slip from our control!”
General Marcus Antridyus strode through the multiple lines of siege troops he and his fellow generals, Onuess and Bjorn, had hand picked for their loyalty to the Nylian Empire. In brief moments, he would send them marching in a great caravan from Militus to New Dargent where they would rest and then march onto the other cities of Lunis, all the while, Antridyus’ hidden forces still serving the Nylinus Compact in Nyliam would rebel and take Nyliam City and Militus in Count VanVehementi’s name. Fayre would fall soon after with the dissolution of the Council. The Nylian Empire would be reborn!
“My fellow Nylians, the time has come to take what is rightfully ours! March now and be proud. You are the chosen to spread the word and laws of our new Emperor, Aramus VanVehementi. Fallout!!!”
With that, monstrous clouds of dust rose billowing into the Militus skyline as thousands of boots scuffled about in the loose soil of its dirt roads. The commotion of the troops simultaneous steps could be heard for miles around. Those that saw the caravan were either struck and frozen by fear (those loyal to the Nylinus Council) or sweltered in a joy of celebration (those that remained reminiscent of Nyliam’s former position on Asheri). Whatever the response of the people was, however, there would be no stopping the convoy as it exited the city walls of Militus and proceeded East towards Lunis and New Dargent.
Captain Johann Rivell had waited long enough. The time to strike was now. He walked in slow, measured paces as he made his way to the wall’s flare stores. With the simplest of nods to one of his men, gunners took position and aiming upwards, sent a torrent of brilliantly streaming lights into the sky. Upon seeing this, other gunners echoed the action and within seconds, not a Nylian soldier missed his/her signal.
The merchants and passerby’s that had been walking and laughing throughout the convention area froze at the sight of the luminance overhead. Before they even had a chance to notice the change in atmosphere, the convention men drew their hidden weapons and immediately began shouting orders of submission.
“Do not oppose us. Your efforts will be in vain. Surrender yourselves to the Nylian Empire and you will be provided for!”
Despite the promising words, few of Dargent’s citizens were prepared to be confronted by armed soldiers, and immediately attempted to flee. Panic spread where there had, only moments prior, been serenity and celebration. The mosaic of colors that Rivell had been watching seconds earlier had begun to vibrate in a fascinating ballet of movements. Some of which, he noted, were heading in the direction of his wall. The entirety of Sarrofey’s nearby forces made an attempt to arm themselves as they ran hastily for the armory. Unfortunately for the would be protectors of New Dargent, Rivell’s wall was in direct line of sight.
“Archers… LOOSE!”
Flickers of feathery light streamed through the air and found their marks. Half of the Lt. Colonels men fell in spite of their valiant and heroic efforts. The other half slipped inside of the bunker like building and slammed the door tightly behind them while Rivell’s archers reached behind their backs for fresh arrows. All too soon, Sarrofey’s men realizing that the armory had been emptied of its weaponry and armor by the imposter forces, opened the door of the barracks and exited with their hands above their heads. A relieved bead of sweat rolled down Rivell’s brow as he barked orders to take the men prisoner.
Elsewhere in the township, resistance was springing up in unforeseen forms. Civilians and peasants alike were emerging from within their homes and bearing arms to take up the defense of their beloved city. Alas, mere peasants were no match for hardened Nyliam siege troops and much to Captain Rivell’s displeasure, their blood soon flooded the gutters of the streets. Swords clanged noisily and voices echoed in chorus louder still as the confrontation waned onward. A contingent of Sarrofey’s men had made it safely to their homes in order to retrieve their weapons. Upon doing so they reunited with one another as they had discussed along the way and bolted into the frenzy as a well trained phalanx; one man’s shield protecting the other man’s sword. They moved with great speed and agility as their wall of force sped towards a group of siege troops still engaged in the slaughter of the hapless peasantry. Without word or warning, their mass of shields and swords met those of the Nyliam troops. Several of those closest fell soon after, their bodies touching the ground before their blood spattered, severed heads. The phalanx immediately invited those nearby to aid them and increase the size of their line, giving instruction as they valiantly waved their swords sending torrents of blood into the air. Although the idea for such a defense was conceived in very little time, its effects were very boosting in terms of moral. Soldier and civilian marching in sync, and side by side was truly an event to witness. Many of Nyliam’s troops had made a break for the city walls. The phalanx followed closely in pursuit. Unfortunately for the recently rallied troops, which had been in the plaza all day, they did not foresee the wall of archers they were making haste towards. Both blinded by their outrage and fueled by their desire to fight for the freedom of their city, they marched head on into a barrage of arrows. Those with fast enough reflexes were able to see the onslaught and hastily rose their shields, whereas their slower brethren and the ill equipped peasants, flinched backwards as the painful sting of arrowheads tore through their exposed naked flesh. Half of the phalanx fell and in doing so the great wall of swords they had achieved was broken allowing the no longer fleeing Nylian forces to slide in and slay those remaining. The entire bloodbath had lasted a mere fifteen minutes as the last tired and frightened peasants retired their pitchforks and axes to the now red earth. They much like Sarrofey’s men were imprisoned.
“Captain Rivell… it is done.”
“Losses?”
“More opposed us than we originally anticipated, however with our numbers and training, we overcame all resistance. Some say two hundred and fifty… others are thinking as many as a six hundred fell by our swords. These people did not want their city to fall. Nevertheless its ours now.”
“Our losses?”
“Minimal to say the least. Heavy casualties in the 49th infantry. They were the unit to face the phalanx. Other than that, all units are reporting one to two dead and maybe a tenth of overall wounded forces. We should be in good condition to receive the invasion forces tomorrow Sir.”
“It should have gone much easier than this. All of our planning….”
“I understand sir. I personally ended the lives of many that needed not to die upon this day. But I did so in the name of our beloved empire. Think not of how we will be remembered now, but how the Nylian Empire years from now shall remember us. Imagine it, no more wars. We will all be brothers and sisters!”
“Strike true private. I shall hope to find comfort in those words. Until then I must notify Antridyus of our success.”
Rivell waved a tired and saddened salute to the private and turned to write his report. Aramus would be ecstatic. While he was proud of his military achievement, he was deeply troubled by the inhumane loss of life. He would make amends as best as possible. He would keep his word and provide for the people. Tomorrow as the army arrived, the prisoners would be set free and the Nylian Empire banners would fly. Today the Nylian Empire was reborn.
__________________
"Unlike my fool of a father, I don't just talk of ambition... I realize it!"
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-15-2001 05:30 PM
Blood Hungers... for Companionship?
Rublicant had had several weeks now in Noit to become attuned with the city and the surrounding territory. He had begun to frequent several different bars and Inns within the city, and was beginning to be known as the man who never drinks. He had no problem with this, becasue from time to time, he would bring in his own wines in dark glass bottles, and drink them from dark glass goblets. And he never shared... Nevertheless, he had become a regular at a bar near the docks of the city, by the name of "The Brass Monkey".
He entered the bar one night nearly a week after he had last spoken to Adamas, and took a seat in a shady corner, where the paleness of his skin would be harder to notice. He knew that he and Adamas would never be close again, and that hurt him greatly. He was quite alone, and all he wanted was someone that would understand him.
He had dressed for the occation, in a white silk shirt and a black vest, with black pants of a soft fiber from the south of Lunis, what some of the farmers were beginning to call cotton. He lit a cigarette he had rolled himself, though he perferred the pre-rolled ones from Akaros. He had burned himself quite badly once before with the Balan matches, he had become adept at using them. He inhaled the smoke and exhaled a stream of blue-grey, and as it curled into the air, he watched it float away.
A young, cute barmaid came and asked him if he wanted a drink, though she knew what his reply would be.
"No, thank you, but if you could find some more of these Akarian cigarettes, I'd be very happy,"
The girl smiled and retrieved one of the light wooden cases of the tobacco from behind the counter. They had begun to carry them just for Rublicant. He looked up, and noted the bar was beginning to get crowded, that's when he saw her.
The woman was pretty, if not a bit tomboyish, from her thoughts, which Rublicant had read as deeply into as he could the past times he had seen her. Rublicant chuckled, as he thought of what she had recently been through. She was muscular and had a deep tan, much to the contrast of Rublicant. She had several tatoos and was quite shapely, but none of this mattered to Rublicant. He was interested in her for other reasons.
Rublicant stepped foreward, out of the corner and into the light, as he lit another cigarette, and went to talk to her. He was lonely. He was also hungry. But mostly, he was lonely.
Cue: Orocia Agua
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Orocia Agua on 10-16-2001 06:13 PM
Orocia, noticing the bustling crowd tonight, decided to put on the ol' barmaid uniform and give it a shot. She looked down at her new red bustier, exactly like the one she wore as a sailor. Her old bustier was originally part of her uniform as a barmaid at The Brass Monkey, before she went to the seas again. Funny how I end up wearing it again, where I first wore it, she thought.
It looked like Alesshka needed some help out there, especially with the new recruits working the tables tonight. She had watched the waitresses silently from the exit towards the rooms, and they reminded her of her first night working at The Brass Monkey. It was definitely a trial by fire, no less busier than the night she had worked just two years ago. She was barely seventeen... It made her sad for a second, how she now found herself staring at the end of her adolescence, and greeting 20. But that thought quickly vanished as one of the girls nearly tripped and spilled the drinks she was carrying, right next to Orocia, who had stepped out in time to steady the girl and calm down any unrattled nerves.
"Maybe you should tighten those suspenders a bit.., uh.. what's your name again, dear?"
"Barbarette! and thank you.." the redhead's lightly freckled face blushed to a shade almost as red as her hair as some nearby customers stared at her. Her baby blue eyes looked down to avoid their stares.
"Hey...." Orocia tilted Barbarette's chin up and forced her gaze in her own. "You'll need a tough skin if you want to wear a head barmistress's bustier, instead of those suspenders!" She smiled sweetly,"Don't let them get to ya, Barbie."
Barbarette's face lighted up and she smiled happily at the sound of the nickname. It was supposedly a good sign to be given a nickname so soon at The Brass Monkey. In Orocia's case, she was called "Boom." That was before they knew about her other nickname. But it was still good, for the few days it lasted, especially considering her explosive outbursts whenever she'd get felt up her skirt the wrong way. With Barbie taken care of, Orocia went behind the bar, much to Al's surprise.
"Back so soon?" She was cleaning glasses.
Orocia, who had her sleeves rolled up, shirt disheveled, bustier untied and her collar loose, with the ribbon necktie hanging lazily around her neck, looked up and down the bar, before turning to her fellow barmaid, "Yeah. Why not? I know, I know... I wasn't so great the other day but I need to get back to a routine, ya know?"
"You need some fresh air. You still haven't gone out like I told you to."
"Whatever--"
Al flashed her eyes at Orocia, just noticing how undressed she still was. "OROCIA! Pull your sleeves down!! And tie that ribbon up!! You're flashing EVERYTHING!!" Al didn't wait for Orocia to follow her orders and dropped what she was doing to fuss over her like a mother, tying up her bustier, pulling down the sleeves and tucking the tails of her white shirt neat and tight, and finally bow-tying her necktie. "Goodness Orocia!! I thought you didn't want anyone bothering you about your incident!! People'll recognize you in a heartbeat if you flash those tattoos around!! And especially those stitches.." Al turned away in a huff, partly to get back to her customers, more to avoid causing a scene over Orocia, which would've defeated the point.
Orocia checked up and down the bar again, loosening her self up a bit after Al's fuss-down, and was glad to see two other girls working the bar. It wouldn't be too tough tonight with their help--
"--Oh!...." Orocia stared eyes wide open at the man sitting in front of her. She swore he wasn't there before.
He spoke first. "Hello..." She couldn't take her eyes off him. He casually smoked a cigarette. He looked back at her, "...is there something wrong?" He smiled.
Orocia forced herself to look down. She struggled to regain her composure and look back up at the man. Her surprise and embarassment were easily apparent but she managed an apology, "I'm sorry sir, you just surprised me. Pardon me." She smiled warmly, trying to put away her previous embarrassment. "What would you like to drink tonight?"
He inhaled another puff, before smiling and exhaling the smoke. "Well, what I drink isn't usually served at bars.."
"Oh really? ...ha ha.. That's one I haven't heard.." Orocia leaned forward, elbows on the bar. She felt comfortable enough again, even enough to flirt. A sly grin creeped on her face,"I can make any drink you want."
She found herself caught in his gaze, while he smiled back at her. She was taken aback by his piercing eyes. "I must say, sir...you have nice eyes... They're a color I've never seen before." This time, while looking at him, she noticed he looked a bit pale.
A man a few seats down yelled,"BAR WENCH!! GIMME A TALL ONE!!"
She flashed her eyes at the loud brute, making sure he wasn't drunk enough already to be calling her, of all people, a bar wench. Then she remembered she was masking her identity for the moment. She sighed as she poured him his drink, but made sure to slide it down the bar fast enough that he almost missed it.
"NOT SO HARD NEXT TIME, BABE!!"
"Maybe you should expect such quick service, sir! You're at one of the finest bars in town!!..." She smiled mischievously but rudely at him, muttering under her breath, "...bitch... just be glad that's not piss."
Rublicant almost choked on his smoke as he chuckled.
"..oh!.. You heard?? oops! Don't worry, I wouldn't ever do a thing like that.. Not here, anyways." She winked as she picked up a glass and cleaned it. "Now, what would you like to drink?"
"Actually, I didn't come here for a drink." He gazed intensely at Orocia.
Orocia's cheeks blushed, and she smiled back coyly at him,"...well... what are you doing sitting there in front of me then?"
He didn't answer, just smiled and took another puff of his cigarette.
"Hmm.. well, I intend to have you drink something. You need some color in those cheeks of yours. How about red wine?"
"No, thank you--"
"I know! A Bloody Mary." She immediately began mixing the cocktail.
"I said n--"
klink! She laid the drink in front of him. She winked and smiled,"You are going to drink it, right?"
As she looked at him, she noticed a.. darkness about him, despite his pale skin. Maybe it was the smoke hanging about him, or the dim lighting, but his darkness was inviting, and Orocia couldn't resist.
Curiosity killed the cat, but Orocia was a tiger....
Cue: Rublicant Al'Teyr
OOC: Alesshka's keeping her eye out for Orocia, making sure she's alright. Orocia will ask questions: she's hasn't seen Rublicant before and she's curious. But she'll try to play it off as a friendly bartender listening to her customer's hopes and woes. And, Orocia might be feeling a little hot under the collar, but it's not necessarily because of her company.. certain stitches might loosen along with her necktie. At least she's wearing red, but blood stains are so hard to get out of white shirts!!
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-17-2001 03:58 PM
"No, I don't believe that I'm going to," Rublicant replied adding a concious, soft gaze into Orocia's eyes, and paying for the drink with a silver gran, before sliding the drink down the bar to an unsuspecting customer.
"Thanks bub!"
"No problem," Rublicant replied before he looked back to Orocia. She had changed the silver into 10 coppers and had depisited the one copper for the drink into the cash box, and kept the tremendous tip.
"So, what are you doing around here? You look more like some sort of lazy noble or perhaps a ship captain,but not like the regulars that hang around here. What's the deal?" Orocia asked, wiping another glass clean and hanging it from the racks.
Rublicant laughed slyly and replied, "I am a noble," He spoke clearly and concisely, not taking his eyes from hers, except for a brief deliberate moment, he cleared his throat, "I am Lord Doctor Rublicant Al'Teyr, ex-dedicated." He took another long puff of his cigarette, and launged in his chair, all the while examining Orocia. His gaze was like that of a predator hunting it's prey, but for some reason, Orocia found comfort in his gaze.
"Ex-dedicated?" She asked, and Rublicant knew he had let something slip that he shouldn't have, "I thought once you were dedicated, you were dedicated for life."
"Something happened," Rublicant stammered, and made it seem as if he hadsome sort of traumatic experience, "I'd rather not talk about it."
"So which guild were you with?"
"I was not a member of either of the guilds. I was dedicated in Asheri, in the country of my fathers. I'm a lord within Lunis," He replied, prying gently within Orocia's mind.
"Sure... So what is an Asherian noble doing here?" She asked with a smile.
"Looking for something, but I'm not sure what, I just feel that I'll find it here," He replied, knowing that the mysterious open -endedness of the statement would catch her attention.
"Interesting," Orocia said wistfully, and then suddenly she slammed a glass she was wiping onto the bar andteasingly spoke, " Oh! I never told you my name! My name is..."
"Orocia," Rublicant spoke softly, "Your name is Orocia, and you are not a barmaid, you are a sailor. You are working here to evade those that seek you, for they seek a sailor with three destinctive tatoos, cuts and bruises. You wear your shirt down and tight to hide your art and scars," Orocia looked astonished, but Rublicant's enchanted eyes held her, "You need not fear me, for I am not one of those that seek you, but I have come here to help you. If you would like to talk further, I'll be in this room, at the Bronze Dragon Inn, down the street." He handed her a card, and as she took it, he leaned towards he and spoke into her ear, "Be weary, your enemies have spies all about, " He pointed to a man in the corner of the bar, dressed in a beige traveler's cloak.
As he withdrew, he moved foreward as if he were to once again speak to her, but rather planted a light, cold kiss upon Orocia's cheek. She felt as if she should slap him, but once again, perhaps becasue of his eyes, she did not. As he walked from the room into the street, Orocia felt a sort of emptiness come over her, as she turned the card over in her hands.
Cue: Orocia
OOC: Rublicant has a large amount of information on the ones who are after you. He will assist you in any way that he can, but will not reveal his true nature to you, yet. Kudos.
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 10-17-2001 07:54 PM
OOC: My humblest apologies for my lack in posting. Not only have I had no creativity whatsoever, but I've also been spending a hefty amount of time at the theater.
___________________________________
IC:
He lifted a large pitcher of mead to his mouth and drained the entire concoction in a matter of seconds. Meanwhile, a thin, timid looking man approached him, looking around nervously.
“Ah…..are you the gentleman-“
“Yes.,” Xarou answered before the smaller man could finish. His face split into a twisted smile as he shuffled over to his side. A childhood accident had left him with a face disfigurement that made most people cringe in horror or disgust. Xarou showed neither of these.
“Sir, my name is Hovel. I was informed that you were interested in a few…ah…special items that I have the pleasure of presenting to you.” His hand darted inside a flimsy burlap sack, which he carried under his stained jacket.
“Lay them on the table.,” his voice rumbled with unquestionable authority. Hovel flinched slightly, and did as he was told, giving a quick glance over his shoulder as he did so. Several shady characters were regulars at this bar, but this didn’t seem to trouble the man before him. There was no worry about the Nylian soldiers that had just raided the city. They usually avoided this part of town. He noticed a spark light in the man’s eyes as he looked over the items glittering in the dim light in front of him. A smile crept across his face as he motioned for Hovel to sit at the opposite end of the table. Something about that smile made him even more nervous than the idea of selling illegal savils. But just the same, he sat.
“These are extremely powerful and can only be used by one who understands their properties…,” he started. An icy stare from the man with amber eyes halted any further talk.
“Do I appear to be a fool? Stop your chatter and name your price.” Hovel glanced down at his hands, then back up at Xarou.
“Twelve hundred.” Xarou said nothing, but tossed a large pouch of money on top of the table. For the first time that evening it was Hovel who smiled as he leaned forward to collect the pouch. He felt a slight stinging across his abdomen and sat back in the booth. His brow furrowed as a sudden surge of warmth spread over his lap. Looking down, his mouth opened in muted horror as his intestines slipped out of his body cavity and onto the dirt floor below. Already a few flies began to crawl along the still living tissue. He looked back up at Xarou, who was now wiping the knife he had concealed on the burlap sack.
“I’m afraid your price is a bit high.,” he said calmly, sheathing the cruel blade. Hovel could only make a few guttural gasps as the dim light in the tavern began to grow dimmer. More blood surged from the gaping slash and splashed onto the ground, drowning a few of the flies that had collected in grim fellowship there.
Xarou carefully placed the objects that had been brought to him that night, save one which would be of immediate use, into his own sack and walked out of the tavern, leaving Hovel to bleed to death in the booth. It was several hours before anyone noticed the body, and by then Xarou was half way to Callendar.
******************************************
As Indigo drifted off into a deep sleep Scarlet sat up in the bed. Once again she was plagued by the feelings of guilt and doubt that accompanied her decision to stay with him. She hugged her knees to her chest in an attempt to still her pounding heart, which throbbed heavily in her chest as if trying to escape. Tears sprang to her eyes but she fought them and eventually succeeded to keep herself under control. She had been fighting them off ever since the first night in New Dargent with limited success. A mournful sigh escaped her as she looked down at Indigo. Would she have felt the same way if she had decided to stay with her parents? She wondered what they were going through.
“I’m sorry…..,” she whispered as another sting of guilt grazed across her heart. She couldn’t even imagine how her parents felt. A few traitor tears slipped from her eyes, the eyes she inherited from her father, onto the bedspread wrapped around her body. She brought her hands up to cup her face and began to sob silently. Indigo stirred, causing her to look up in alarm. She couldn’t let him know how she felt. The very thought that she may hurt him if she did so made another pang of guilt tear through her heart.
She lay back down and rolled over to face the window, curling herself into a fetal position. Soft moonlight filtered through the gauzy curtains and spilled across the floor in a large rectangular patch of silvery light. The night air looked so calm and inviting, like the beckoning arms of a mother.
Without a moment’s hesitation she rose from the bed and crossed over to the wardrobe where she donned a simple white kimono. She had no fear of any more assassins. Somehow she knew that only one had been sent and no more would follow.
She walked sedately toward the balcony doors and opened them slowly allowing more moonlight to spill over her and into the room behind her. With one more glance to Indigo, who was still asleep, she closed the doors and turned her face into the night wind. It played across her face and danced wildly through her hair. She stood like that for several minutes, regressing deeper and deeper within herself, drawing on her own energy until suddenly she shot up into the air like a cork.
At first the air whipping around her threw her concentration, but soon she grew accustomed to the feeling of weightlessness, and directed herself toward the southwest. Soon she was several miles away from the inn and flying over vast, deserted stretches of beach. She gazed at the moonlit scenery below her and smiled. The small, white crests of the waves lapping the shore glittered like diamonds beneath the heavenly wilderness. Governing the starry plains was the moon that hung like a pearl in the black velvet sky, watching over the drifting clouds like a lone shepherdess. Slowly, Scarlet descended to the beach and walked along the surf. The water was warm and foamy as it swirled around her feet.
She reached an area of the beach where several large boulders jutted out into the waves. The salty spray thoroughly soaked her as she climbed to the top of the largest rocky crag. The smell of the ocean reminded her of Orocia. She wondered how she was doing. The corners of her mouth curled up slightly at the memory of her friend.
Unbeknownst to her, she and Orocia had briefly shared a telepathic moment with each other as she stood on a distant shore and thought of Scarlet. She looked down at the water uneasily. It had suddenly become very rough. She tried to calm her unease by thinking of the Tiger Lily, but all thoughts of Orocia were quickly pushed aside as a massive wave swept over her and the rock, sweeping her into the turbulent water. She tried to scream, but water filled her mouth and forced its way into her lungs. All around her was a swirling world of black water which roared in her ears and slammed her forcefully against the rocks that she had just been sitting on so peacefully only moments before. Gray clouds danced across her field of vision and she was aware of a burning sensation within her lungs. Her mind cried out wearily as panic and confusion enveloped her along with the water.
She struggled against the rip tides to make her way back to the rocks, but already she was exhausted and unable to breath. The gray clouds became thicker and she felt all resistance slip away.
She was going to die.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 10-17-2001 09:36 PM
Hazy images drifted through her mind like ghosts of a past life. There was black swirling water, followed by a pair of arms dragging her across the sand, and then more blackness. A thin streak of light blazed across her retinas as she slowly opened her eyes.
She was atop an enormous bed, in an equally enormous room. A lone candelabra bathed the cavernous chamber in soft orange hues. Across the room, just opposite of the bed, two massive doors marked the entrance and exit.
Sudden movement out of the corner of her eye directed her attention to a chair placed in the darkest corner of the room. A figure rose from it and walked steadily to the side of the bed. Scarlet fairly screamed as the candlelight washed over his face.
It was Xarou.
“No!” She flung the covers back and lunged out of the opposite side of the bed. A sudden wave of dizziness overtook her, forcing her to the floor, unable to orientate herself. She could only watch in terror as Xarou calmly walked around the bed and knelt beside her, laughing softly.
“You should be more careful. After all, you very nearly died and you’re still very weak.” He slipped his hands under her body and lifted her up. She brought her left hand forcefully as she could against his chest and summoned a bolt of lightning. Her efforts were rewarded with a maddening pain searing across her forearms that spread throughout her entire body and a sense of being powerless. It was only then that she noticed a pair of ebony armbands inlayed with strange silver characters over her wrists.
Seeing her shocked, puzzled expression, Xarou explained.
“Those are called Puppet Bands. I wouldn’t try to use your powers anymore if I were you.,” he stated, dumping her on the bed. Furious, Scarlet raised her hand to slap him only to find that her hand wouldn’t move at all. He smiled.
“They also give me control over the use of your arms. Like so.,” he said, snapping his fingers. Suddenly, Scarlet found her arms flung around his neck, pulling him close. He took advantage of the situation by bowing his head and forcing her into a long, slow embrace that she found herself unable to break by any means. She was horrified to discover that a part of her was finding some amount of pleasure in the act. Her heart was flooded by a surge of guilt and she struggled more than ever to resist his pull. After several minutes he finally released her onto the bed where she began to frantically wipe her mouth. She had kissed someone other than Indy…..and she had liked it. Tears threatened as she glared up at Xarou, whose own eyes seemed to be hazy with pleasure.
Suddenly, the threat of tears became a reality and she turned away from him, not wanting him to see she was crying.
“Indy…”
“Do you honestly think you’ll ever see him again?” Scarlet’s chest tightened.
“He’ll find me.,” she whispered defiantly, desperately wanting to believe the impossible.
“Do you think he’ll even try to look for you?” Her mind reeled in denial. He would try to find her, no matter how impossible it seemed…….Wouldn’t he? Doubt descended over her, shaking her resolve. Which was exactly what Xarou wanted. He could sense it rise in her. Smiling, he turned toward the doors.
“Goodnight, Scarlet. Please try to rest.” With that, he exited through the doors, locking them behind him. Scarlet immediately began to tear at the armbands, only to discover there was no way she could remove them. With that possibilty shattered she scoured every corner of the room to try and find another way out. But the windows were locked from the outside and there appeared to be no other doors. Reluctantly, she returned to the bed. If she was going to get out of this, she would have to find some other means to escape. She dreaded what those means might include.
She rubbed the back of her hand over her mouth one last time, but it was no use. Even though the kiss was long over, she could still feel it. More tears fell onto the pillow. It only seemed like a few hours ago that she had been sleeping next to Indy. But she couldn’t tell if it had been hours or days. She lost all sense of time.
“I’m so sorry Indy…”
She continued to cry as she fell into a thin, troubled sleep.
CUE: Indigo. I'm afraid there's not much you can do. Only Xarou knows where they are, and he's not talking.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Orocia Agua on 10-17-2001 10:01 PM
"Hey, lady...."
Orocia stared at the card in her hands. She didn't have any customers to worry about.
"Laaaaaaadyyyyyyyyyyyy..... aw, jeez, come OOONNNNNNNNN...."
..... but I never even met him... was he here that night?? Orocia thought back, and knew she clearly remembered every face she saw that night. No... ?? ...Why does he even care?...
"....WOMAN, I AM THIRSTY, PLEASE SERVE ME..."
Orocia looked up to make sure it wasn't anyone speaking to her. "Who the hell...?" And then she noticed Alesshka peering over her shoulder at the card, quiet as a mouse. She then looked over and saw the man making the fuss, who, quite noticeably, was being ignored by Al.
Orocia closed her hand around the card,"I believe you have a customer, Al..."
"Huh?" She looked back. It wasn't just one... at least five were casting their annoyances towards Al's direction.
"Whatever. They can wait. I'm interested in the guy you were talking to... and that tip," she nudged Orocia in the ribs. Orocia gritted her teeth and flashed a painful look to Al.
"Oh! sorry, forgot... You know how I am around money..." Al flashed a greedy grin.
"Then how about you not lose any more tips by serving those thirsty customers?"
Al pouted, but turned back to her work and left Orocia pondering. Of course, Al kept her ever leery eyes on Orocia.
Orocia was quite taken aback by this new information. ...Damn it. But how do I know he's not toying with me? or worse?... Her grip around the card tightened into a fist. She suddenly felt hot, and loosened her necktie. Barbie came over with some orders. It was nice to see someone so carefree. Orocia slid the card inside her black cummerbund.
"Hey Orocia! I need one bourbon, one scotch, and one beer..." Barbie's happy face gradually slid down into concern, "Hey, what's up? Looks like somethin's eatin' ya.."
"Yeah...." Orocia handed the drinks over to Barbie. "Hey, Barb, is it just me or is it a little hot in here?"
"No, it's just you." Barbie continued to look at Orocia with concern, "Maybe you need some fresh air?"
"I TOLD YOU SO!!" Al yelled at Orocia. A grin of vindication sprawled across her face. "Wasn't I right, boys?" She looked at her now somewhat happy customers.
"...yeah, yeah... just gimme a beer."
One man offered his support, "She really don't look too good right now. I think ya oughta take the girlie's advice, Miss."
Orocia looked down the bar. "Thank you, sir. I guess I should..." She looked back at Barbie. "You're hired. Take over." Orocia began untying her bustier. Barbie stood in shock.
"NO WAY!!!! THANK YOU!!!" She jumped over the bar with ease, completely forgetting about the table she was supposed to serve.
As Orocia took off the bustier, she looked down and noticed... blood. She took care not to show her surprise and continued to fit Barbie in the bustier and tie it up.
"Hey... there's a stain on your shirt."
"It was from a Bloody Mary I made." Orocia finished tying her up,"Not too tight, is it?"
"Nope!" Barbie was glowing with happiness. Orocia's mind would not rest. Hope you don't get into the same sort of shit I seem to get myself into, kid. But she managed to smile back at Barbie. "Don't screw up." Orocia began to walk back towards the rooms.
"Hey-- WAIT!!" It was Al. "Are you sure you'll be fine? Maybe Ferris could go with you--"
"Did you forget I killed a man? With my bare hands?" The look on Orocia's face sent chills down Alesshka's spine.
"I'm.. sorry." Alesshka noticed how Orocia's eyes seem to be ignited within by blue fire. "Just be careful, Tiger." Al went back to her bartending, feeling unnerved by Orocia's look.
In her room, Orocia pulled out two short daggers she hadn't needed to use in quite a while. Just in case. She placed them in her cummerbund, making sure they were visible, to at least scare off thieves thinking her an easy target. She looked down to see how bad her cut was bleeding. "Noticeable... but it'll stop." She pulled out the card, and gave it one last look before heading to the Bronze Dragon Inn.
Cue: Rublicant
OOC: Orocia is highly suspicious of Rublicant, but is curious to see what he "knows." As with anyone, she'd like to think the best of him and feel like she could trust him, but she knows better. She also knows how to watch her back and look sweet and gullible at the same time. Even with a stitched up cut that decides to bleed again, much to her annoyance and discomfort...
I have a question for the guys concerning men's fashion: is it okay to wear a vest and cummerbund together? I feel stupid for asking because the answer WOULD seem to be "No," but I SWEAR!!! I SWEAR I've seen it on ushers at the theatres and on bartenders. Maybe it depends on the vest??? I've searched forever on the 'Net and can't come to a conclusion!!! ARRRRGHHH!!
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-18-2001 12:16 AM
Rublicant sat within the Royal Suite at the Bronze Dragon. It was a spacious set of rooms, and he sat behind likely the largest piano in the city. As he played, the sound rose melodically from the body of the instrument, likening itself to a living being. He played several of Trazom's Fayre Conchertos, as he waited for the woman to come. He knew that she would come, even though his compulsion was not exceptionally strong yet, and he had tried not to use it, he knew that it was much an unconcious ability, as he had discerned.
His fingers flew into the second movement of a piece called the "Passion Suite", and the racing allegro filled the room with its scales and varaitions. He sipped at a glass of blood he had maganed to "acquire" on the way over. As he poured another glass from the pitcher on the table at his side, he lit another cigarette. The thick, aromatic smoke filled the room, and was very eerie in the absence of Balanian oil lamps. The only light in the room was provided by a single candle atop the piano. Rublicant finished the glass, poured out the last of the pitcher, and set it within a curio, where it would not be seen. He did not expect her for another hour.
He launched into the third movement of the suite, and as he did, there was a knock on the door. He abruptly stopped, and stood. He thought of hiding the crystalline wine glass, but in the lighting, the lady would likely think it a bloody mary or some such nonsense. He unbolted the door, and squinted as the lamplight of the corridor flowed into his crimson eyes.
"Hello, Orocia" Rublicant said hoarcely, "Please come in, I have a few things you might like to know,"
She followed Rublicant into the room, and as he motioned towards a cushioned lounging chair, she took a seat. He walked across the room, glass in hand, and poured another glass of a dry white wine. He briskly walked back across the room, his silk robe billowing out behind him, and handed the glass to Orocia.
"How do you know so much about me?" She asked, sniffing the drink to be sure it was not drugged. After a small taste, she was satisfied that it was not, and she looked at his profile as he began to play a softer sonata entitled "Moonlight and Silver"
"Let me speak first of the man whom you killed," He looked over at him, not missing a note in the soothing slow sonata, "This man, Charlie, within the last two years, climbed the ranks of his ship, and had become the first mate of a ship called the 'Razoredge'. The captain of the ship heard of you, Tiger Lily, and is looking for revenge. So to make it simple, there's a whole crew of sailors looking for you, and out to slit your throat. I'm here to help you, but you don't trust me. Not that I blame you, but if you want to live, I think your best chance is with me," Rublicant finished the first movement of the sonata, and took a deep drink from his glass.
"So you do drink, what is that?" Orocia asked, a hint of aprehension in her voice.
Rublicant grinned, "A bloody mary, of course, but I did not want to drink at the bar," He chuckled "No offense to you,"
He continued the piece for several minutes as Orocia contemplated the information that Rublicant had given her. He finished the piece and drained his glass completely, setting it atop the piano. Orocia raised her own empty glass, and Rublicant promptly took it from her hand and walked across the room so that he could refill the glass. As he returned, his keen eyes spotted a stain of blood growing upon her shirt. He strained for a moment and wrested the drive under control. He handed the glass back to her, and returned to the piano.
"You're bleeding. I'm a doctor. Let me look at it," Rublicant kneeled next to Orocia, and looked intently into her eyes. Using the fullest powers of his compulsion, he asked again, "May I tend to it? My sutures are much more powerful, and only take minutes to heal,"
"Y-yes, p-please..." She stammered as she looked drunkenly into Rublicant's gaze, the gaze that had taken control of her for a few moments.
Rublicant gently undid her shirt, and as he parted it, he saw that the stitches were well done, if not as well as he would have done. Orocia's head slumped to the side as he ran his cold finger across the gash, a small side effect of seduction through compulsion, it worked to his advantage in this situation. He cut his left pointer finger with one of the claws of his left hand, and dribbled the blood into her wound. The enchanted blood immideatly began to mend the wound, and within ten minutes, and several more cuts to the finger (It heals far too quickly for utility) the wound was but a subtle scar. Rublicant did her shirt back up, and focused for a few moments as he brought Orocia back to conciousness.
"Wha... What?" She muttered as she came back, "What happened?" She looked at Rublicant and saw the blood on his hands. She looked down at herself and something wasn't right. The pain that had been there had been replaced by a plesant warmth along the scar.
"You were bleeding. I fixed you up. Don't worry about it," Rublicant replied as he began to lick the blood off his fingers, then grimaced and retrieved a towel to remove the blood.
Orocia sat calmly in the chair, trying to make sense of what had happened. She remembered Rublicant saying something, and then her memory became hazy. Rublicant continued cleaning himself up, and then left into another room for a moment, and he returned with a fine blue Lunari silk blouse.
"Here, put this on," He handed the blouse to Orocia.
"Thank you. Why are you doing all of this? Why are you helping me?" She asked.
"Because, becasue I can, and becasue you need my help. Becasue without me, you might die, and I do not want that to happen," Rublicant replied honestly.
They looked at each other in silence for a few moments and the Orocia rose and left the room. She returned wearing the blouse, to Rublicant playing the piano once again, this time the same piece that he had been playing when she arrived. He was a skilled pianist, and his fingers moved so fast at times that it seemed supernatural.
That's when the door was broken down, and nearly a dozen angry men with sabres ran into the room.
"Tiger! We come to settle the score!" One of them cried out.
Rublicant, Like a bolt of lightning, grabbed Orocia in his arms and faster than the others could see, jumped backwards out the fourth story window, Orocia in his arms. The whole movement seemed a blur to Orocia, until they were hovering nearly a hundred feet in the sky.
"It's a good thing you decided to trust me, at least a little bit, no?" Rublicant chuckled...
Cue Orocia
OOC: I hope I played Orocia as she would have been. Now you know that somethings up with Rublicant, but you don't really know what. He'll try to play it off as terra magic for now. But if you charm him, he might tell the truth. (he's a sucker like that) and, yes, you can wear a cumberbund with a vest, if the vest is open. Otherwise it seems futile, non?
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Volsung on 10-18-2001 12:57 AM
setting out.
The Day started late, and Volsung got up, opened his door, and found a new set of clothes sitting outside of the door. The clothes consisted of a Light green shirt, black pants and pair of new black boots, and a dark green cape that went down to the back to of his knees. After Volsung had gotten dressed, he put his new sword into this father Sheath. It was a prefect fit. “Well that is a good sign,” Said Volsung to himself. After that, he went down to the kitchen were everyone else was eating.
“Good morning.” Said Met “I’m glad to see that your new clothes fit.”
“Yep, they fit very well. I guess your getting pretty good at that. This what the 3rd or 4th I have gotten since I got here, but this one is a lot more like the one I had before I came here.”
“Well Thank your sister because she is the one who made them for you,” Said Met as he turned to look at Veritas.
“Wow I didn’t know that you could sew like this,” Said looking in surprised at his sister.
“Well I have been working on it for sometime before we got here and it was one of the few things that I was able to save before the ship wreck,” Said Veritas with a proud tone.
“Thank you I was hoping for something meant to fight in.”
“Yes and Met gave me some fabric to put in it so that it is less likely to start on fire.”
“Is this true Met?” Asked Volsung now turning to Met to see what he would say.
“Yes I did. You see most people dedicated into fire burn though there clothes during a battle and are forced to fight in the nude. Now as you can image a king prefers to fight in clothes, so some special silk was bought in from Ciwa that is flame retardant, that way he could fight with his dignity,” Said Met smiling.
“Well thank you too. I’m glad to know I shouldn’t have to fight in the nude,” Said Volsung trying to tell what was what in his new garments. After that the day when quickly bye as the other dressed and armed for the on coming battle, every person had a sword and shield and armor except Volsung that he planed on going to as he was but Veritas got him to pick up a pare of daggers and put them in his boots. Soon sunset was apon them. The five set out to take on the black wolves. Volsung and Met took point, Leada and Pylos walked in the middle of the group, and Veritas guarded the rear. The first thing that Volsung did was to put his fire ora all around the group, this way Met could focus on attacking. The group walked slowly there was no rush there foes would come them and there was really no reason to get to far always from there only means of escape. As they existed the circles, a great howl when out. And every one knew what was coming.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Volsung on 10-18-2001 02:52 PM
The Battle of Greyon part I
More howls when out as the group got farther from the circles. Soon the Howls were starting to close in. “Well it look like the time of judgment is upon us, Lets hope we do well because if we don’t it will be the end of us,” Said Met as a shiver went up his back. “I have waited so long for this and now it our time to shine.”
There was a full moon on this night and everyone could see for at lest for 50 yards. The howls were now only a few yards off but no one could see anything then one of the wolves jumped at the group and Volsung ora turned the wolf to ashes. “You don’t have to do that you will were yourself out all you need to do is to keep them at bay.”
“Ok I will keep they at bay, but I plain of killing a few Wolves before we are all done,” Said Volsung in a very unhappy tone.
“Don’t weary about that, I sure that you will have plenty of chases before we are done.” Volsung reduced the strength of this ora, but it was still more than enough start the wolves on fire if they touched it. After this, the other four started attacking. Met started out lunching fireballs that could take out ten wolves at a time leaving only the glowing ashes behind. Leada with her earth magic gathered great stones between the palms of her hands from small piece's gravel and sand. This took about 5 minutes but crushed 15 or so wolves every time. Pylos with this water magic made sears of ice and lunched them at the wolves. This took a little help from Volsung because had to open a hole for the sear to go throw or it would melt when it hit the ora. Mind you, that Pylos could make a sear of Ice that wouldn't melt but that would have taken to energy. Last of course was Veritas in the back. Veritas had been using her air magic to send out bolts of lighting in many different directions at once killing dozens of wolves.
Even with all of this the Wolves kept coming, so strong was the erg to seek out KI Magic that they stopped thinking about there own survival. There only thought was of killing those who had KI Magic, and while the group of five had killed about a hundred, this was but a fraction of the thousands, which were undoubtedly let. Soon the wolves were trying to over take the group every few seconds. This put a great stain of Volsung and he was forced to dived his ora into sections and cut its size down this what he focus his effort into the place where the wolves were attacking, but even this proved only to be a stop gap measure. Because the wolves now numbering in the thousands started attacking from all sides “Met I could use a little help here. I don’t think I can hold them much longer by myself.”
Met too was getting wore out too. The wolves were more numerous than Met than originally thought. “I will help, but I think we will be forced to use the sword sooner than I planed.”
“What do you ‘We’ will be forced to use the sword?” Asked Volsung doing his best to keep the relentless waves of black off of his friends and talk at he same time.
“I have read that two people of the same dedication can just the sword at the time, and in doing so double its power.”
“What is the down side?”
“I don’t know. Why do you ask?” Said Met doing his best to hind the fact that he did indeed know something.
“Because there is a down side to everything that is life. That is why I asked. And I don’t believe for a second that you don’t know what it is,” Said Volsung now getting anger at Met refusal to answer the question.
“Your right there is a down side, the fact is if we both gab it then we may both go mad and kill each other, but if we don’t take this risk then we are all going to die!” Said Met weeping as lunch anther fireball at he oncoming wolves, Volsung Gabbed the Sword from the Sheath and held it in the air and Met walked over and as gabbed the two handed sword there was a great flash of red light.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-18-2001 08:25 PM
Linerin lounged in the divining chamber of the Black Tower. He stared contently into the great orb that occupied the center of the room, watching with delight as the soldiers stood on the street corners of Dargent. He turned to one fo his many concubines and bid her to rub his shoulders. She did as she was commanded, her mind having been obliterated long ago by Linerin's dark power.
"Lionel! Come here!" Linerin spoke softly, but knew that his secretary would hear him, as he always heard everything Linerin spoke. As the man walked into the room, Linerin abruptly asked, "Give me status reports on the seven,"
"Mellin is in Noit, Looking for the Savillion we were to have intercepted in Dargent. Ragash is in Nyliam, hiding himself in the palace, and attempting to seduce those that oppose VanVehementi. Gravan has not reported for some time, but he was last in Balanum. Marian is in fayre, attempting to stir up opposition to the Terra Magic ban, and I believe that Fenix is with her. Kaliva is in Gania, waiting for the King and Queen to arrive. It seems that they've had some troubles with their daughter. She thinks we can help, and Suedomsa is hidden within the Nylian nationalist forces, so that he might assist them if the need arises. Everything going to plan, sir?"
"Yes, Everything is going to plan. Tell them all to continue with their plots, and send a messenger to Dargent offering my personal help,"
"Who shall I address the letter to, sir,"
"General Bjorn, yes, General Bjorn..."
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Orocia Agua on 10-19-2001 07:06 PM
Orocia looked down at the ground beneath her feet. But in Noit, there was nothing to look at but mist.
".............."
If she hadn't felt comfortable about Rublicant before, she sure as hell didn't feel so great in his arms, especially with the surprise of his abilities of levitation. Actually, she was quite torn between gratitude and suspicion. A simple act of heroism wasn't going to earn her trust; but she realized if she wanted to feel the ground beneath her feet again she'd have to put away any fears and show some thankfulness first. She held Rublicant tightly, for two reasons that opposed each other like the feelings she had about him: the first was the feeling of protection she felt from him; the second being protection for herself if Rublicant decided to "accidently" drop her.
She kept her eyes closed tight as she held him, tucking her face in the cradle of Rublicant's neck. He smiled at this expression of trust, despite knowing the duplicity behind it.
Orocia then heard Alesshka's voice in her head:
"...well... I was just thinking maybe you should finally get out of this tavern and go to the beach. Ya know, go for a midnight stroll or somethin'... admire the stars, the moon... maybe meet somebody."
And then saw again Al's grin and laughter,
"Just don't kill him this time."
She remembered she brought her two daggers along.
"Ru-.. Rublicant?"
"Yes?" he said, with a bit of amusement in his voice.
"Can we get back down please?"
He chuckled, "Where to?"
"...... The beach." A breath of fresh air was in order.
Rublicant gently brought Orocia to the beach. "We're here." She made sure by toeing the sand twice, finally loosening her hold around Rublicant and opening her eyes, smelling the familiar salty breeze of the ocean. She put some space between her and Rublicant as she walked toward the low tide, keeping her eyes down from him in pensive thought. She kicked her shoes off and felt the warm waves wet her legs and the soft sand squish between her toes. Out of nowhere, she suddenly thought about Scarlet, hoping her new friend didn't have the same sort of trouble she herself seemed to be having. She smiled for a second from thinking about Scarlet, but as much as she wanted to Orocia couldn't escape her current problems. She sat down, leaning back on her hands with knees bent, feet still in the waves, with a loud sigh and stared at a the moon, with its hazy crown of mist.
fwipt!
A dagger stabbed the ground between Rublicant's feet. He looked at Orocia in shock, because there was no thought in her mind he read that would have warned him about her throwing a dagger.
Orocia was now looking back at Rublicant, laying on her stomach, resting her cheek in her left hand and twirling the second dagger in her right hand. She smiled at him.
"I've only thrown daggers for bar tricks. Never needed to otherwise. But it's a handy skill." She looked at the dagger in her hand as she thumbed its sharp edge. She suddenly stabbed the ground and trapped water seeped out where she had stabbed. "Sit next to me, Rublicant. I promise I don't bite..." She rolled on her back and crossed her arms behind her head. The sea breeze ruffled her blouse. "And bring that dagger with you.." She looked back up at the moon, then turned her gaze up to Rublicant as he sat next to her. Now was a good time to turn up the charm and get some answers.
"Why do you want my problems?"
Before Rublicant could speak, Orocia teasingly pointed the tip of her dagger under his chin.
"Don't answer, just yet... " Keeping the dagger there she took the other dagger from Rublicant's hand and moved behind him, arms under his and crossing both daggers at his neck. She pressed up close to him and playfully brushed her cheek against his. But Rublicant knew she wouldn't hurt him.
She whispered in his ear,"You're not trembling..."
"I don't have any reason to." Rublicant smiled.
She gripped him tighter,"...Misery loves company, then," possibly answering her own question, both for Rublicant and herself.
A moment of silence passed, with only the sound of breaking waves. Orocia continued,"I thought you were ex-dedicated... What was all that flying about, then?"
Rublicant hesitated,"It's terra magic.."
Orocia's daggers dropped slightly. "So.. is that how you healed my cut on my chest?"
"Yes."
Orocia turned her grip into a loose embrace, daggers still in hand, leaning against Rublicant's back. "I still don't trust you." Rublicant could only smirk.
She let out a heavy sigh. "I don't have anywhere safe to go, with a posse after me..." Unconciously, she hugged Rublicant a little tighter. It provided some comfort in the dark.
"And my friends.. they could be in trouble now...." As she looked at the eery mist floating around them, she wished she could turn into mist and join the ghostly clouds in their journey to nowhere, like the free spirit she was.
"I already killed that past life... I'm not about to live it again."
This last statement interested Rublicant. He tried to probe Orocia's mind for some clues but apparently she had killed and buried these memories too, in an effort to forget them.
Finally, Orocia gave in. "I don't know what to do."
Cue: Rublicant
OOC: Well, Orocia's expecting you to help her now. And good luck asking her about that past life.
And THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOUUUUUU for answering my little men's fashion question. I almost ripped apart my "Vogue"s and "Mademoiselle"s and all my other fashion magazines in desperation...
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 10-20-2001 07:07 AM
The winds they smelt of war. The night it smelled like blood.
Caliph was outside in the dim moonlight, feeling the breeze upon his skin and sighing whistfully. Normally he felt relieved, even purged, to be out upon the night again, to finally be freed of walls and shades and cloaks, but tonight he felt empty, hollowed. Nationalists, indeed.
And he gazed upon the pistol that sat upon his hip. His awful craft, tools of war. As a child it had seemed a game.
Not so anymore.
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-21-2001 11:26 PM
Rublicant turned about so quickly that it seemed a blur to Orocia. He looked into her eyes with his crimson gaze and then, he spoke, "I can't tell you what to do. You have to make your own chioces. I'm here to help you in any way that I can," Rublicant grimaced, "But first, I must be completely honest with you,"
She looked back into his eyes, and with a sad sigh, she replied, "Sure, what is it?"
"Realize," He spoke softly and in a hissing tone, "That I'm only trying to help you. I do not wish to harm you in any way, nor am I going to gain in any way from what I do for you. I'm doing this becasue I want to do it,"
"Alright," Her voice hinted at despair, "What is it then?"
"I am not a Terra Mage. I was Dedicated, and I was a Terra Mage, but I am no longer either," He removed his glove and showed Orocia the crimson meshai on the back of his hand. "This proves I was Dedicated. But now I am something altogether different from you or any other living thing," Orocia's eyes opened widely as Rublicant parted his lips fully and displayed his elongated canine teeth, "I am a Vampire."
Orocia had heard of legends of Vampires long ago, but more or less had thought that they were either a fairy tale of sorts, or if they did exist they had all been killed. Internally, she shrugged her shoulders. Now she knew how he had healed her and how he could fly. This, however, threw off all of her suspicions that he was doing her this favor for his own gain. If he had wanted her blood, he would have taken it by now.
She looked back to him, gazing with her gleaming orbs, that seemed to tell a story of sadness and betrayal to the Vampire. She was silent for a moment as she put together Rublicant's ghastly characteristics with the elongated teeth and his declaration. She slapped him and pushed him away. Rublicant did not resist, but he looked both surprised and saddened.
"Why did you lie to me? How can I trust you now that I know that you've lied to me?" Orocia nearly shouted, and then quieted as to not be noticed. Rublicant was taken aback. He did not expect her to take it in this way. He growled at himself for not preparing for this contingency, but he knew that she would not tell anyone else about his secret. How he knew, he did not know, but he felt it in his soul.
"I lied, becasue I did not feel safe enough to tell you. Now, I know that you won't tell anyone about me, even If you wanted to. You are truely honorable, Tiger Lily," Rublicant looked into her eyes, and looked away as if a childish boy, before looking back again. "I know where we can go, where we can be safe for a time. But first, If you want, we can return to The Brass Monkey," Rublicant lit a cigarette, and puffed on it casually. It will take me only a few hours to contact my agent, and dissolve my assets here, other than the house that I have left to Adamas, But we will have to leave tomorrow night, as it is growing early, and I will need to seek shelter and rest in a matter of hours, which is not enough time to make it to Lunis,"
"You'd take me to your homeland?" Orocia brightened somewhat, "I've never been outside of a port city in Asheri,"
"Yes, I will. But let us go first to make assurance of your friends' safety,"
Orocia looked at Rublicant foir a moment, and then agreed. She still did not trust him, as far as Rublicant could sense, but she was internally happy that he was also concerned for her friends. She stepped close to him once again, and felt his cold skin. He wrapped his arms about her and they lifted into the air, through the mists of Noit, and towards the place where the whole evening had began, The Brass Monkey.
Cue Orocia.
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 10-22-2001 08:38 PM
Scarlet woke the next morning confused. Where was she? This didn’t look like the inn that she and Indy had come to-
Of course it didn’t. She wasn’t with Indy at the inn. She didn’t know where she was or how she got here. Only one person knew…..
“Xarou...”
She ran over to the doors and desperately tugged on the handles. They didn’t budge. Without thinking, she balled her hands into fists and began to pound on the doors furiously, her forearms becoming blurs as she did so. It wasn’t until she began to leave behind bloody prints that she stopped. Her hands were numb, but streaked with blood. She opened her mouth to call out and hesitated. Did she really want Xarou to come? She trembled. What choice was there for her? She didn’t know where she was or even what day it was. The answers to all her questions lay with Xarou. And even then, he may not tell her anything. She leaned against the wall and sank to the floor, pressing her knees into her chest. Blood ran from her hands and down her legs, but she barely felt it. Her senses were overloaded with her feelings of rage, fear, and sadness, but most of all, helplessness. A glance to the ebony bands around her wrists reminded her of her peril. As long as they were there, Xarou could do whatever he pleased with her. This thought brought back the memory of the previous night’s kiss. She wiped her mouth instinctively. If she was going to get out of this, she would have to rely on her self-control and whatever amount of thespian skills she could muster.
She rose slowly, taking the time to study the room in more detail. Along what appeared to be the western wall several towering windows stretched very nearly to the ceiling. Deep violet curtains were drawn half way across, letting in a minimal amount of light. Directly in front of the windows was a small table with two chairs made of a dark colored wood with lavender upholstery. Several richly designed tapestries depicting great hunts, feasts and the like hung on all four walls, giving the room a strangely cozy atmosphere. A giant wardrobe made of the same wood as the table and chairs stood to the right of the bed. As her eyes crossed over the bed, they came to rest on something she was sure hadn’t been there before.
A dress made of a deep blue satiny material lay spread across the foot of the bed. Chills ran up her spine and she fairly screamed as a series of knocks erupted from the doors.
“Scarlet!?” Xarou’s voice called from the other side. A moment later he jogged into the room, carrying a comically large breakfast tray. As his eyes fell on Scarlet, he quickly laid the tray down on the bed and ran to her side in a panic. She had forgotten for the moment that she was fairly bloody from her episode that morning.
“Scarlet! What happened? Are you alright?” She cringed as he came near. An expression of hurt replaced his one of concern. He reached for her hands, using his power over the Puppet Bands to render her immobile. He studied them for a moment before leaving the room, and returning a few minutes later with several bandages and a basin of warm water. Scarlet was disappointed to notice that he locked the doors when he left.
He led her over to the table were he sat her down in one of the chairs and began to trickle the water over her hands. An awkward silence descended over Scarlet as he cleaned the scrapes and washed the blood away. By the time he had bandaged them, the water had turned a sickening pink. She was amazed at the gentleness of his touch and the genuity of his concern. She felt his gaze on her and she looked out the window to avoid his eyes. Only then did she find her voice.
“Where am I?”
“I can’t tell you.” Her heart fluttered uneasily. Was he toying with her?
“How did you find me?” This question he was willing to answer.
“When I landed in New Dargent, shortly after the invasion, I acquired an item that allowed me to follow you to Callendar. It’s a small hand mirror that will show you the person you seek. By using a strand of hair left in your hair brush I was able to follow you to the beach.” Scarlet began to shake in anger.
“You ambushed me.”
“I saved your life.” Scarlet looked at him in shock and realization. As much as she would’ve liked to deny it, he had saved her life. She found herself at a loss for words. He knelt in front of her and looked up into her eyes. She pressed against the back of the chair and deliberately looked away from him. He spoke in a soft tone that trembled ever so slightly, so much unlike his usual commanding voice.
“Scarlet, I know all of this is frightening to you. I’m sorry it had to be this way. But I want you to know that I love you and I’ll never do anything to hurt you. Ever.” She was caught off guard and turned to face him.
“Xarou-“ She was silenced as he wrapped his arms around her waist and hugged her close to him. So great was her surprise that it didn’t even occur to her to protest.
“Please Scarlet…..I’ll do anything it takes to win your heart. Please give me the chance….please….” Hot tears fell onto her shoulder. It took her a moment to realize that she now felt nothing but pity for him. She fought the urge to hug him back, and he didn’t force her to. Instead, a silent tear fell from her eye. He wiped it away, cupping her face in his hand. She couldn’t help but notice how warm it was.
“Why are you doing this?” He lowered his hand and turned away.
“I have to.” Without another word, he left the room, locking the doors behind him.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-22-2001 10:52 PM
Kaliva lounged in the Antechamber of the throne room in Gania. It had been several days since the King and Quen had arrived, but getting a legal audience with them was hard, even with her own resources. She waited now for the pair to summon her into the chamber where she would make her appeal, they would accept, and then she could do what she had been planning for some time. Blast it all that the girl had to discover her heritage on her own.
A voice came from behind the door, "Sara Stoneheart, please enter, Your Queen and King bid it so!"
Kaliva rose and entered the chamber. Dropping into a composed bow, she adressed the royalty, "Hello, I have come to offer my service to you, free of any charge, for the sake of restoring your daughter to you,"
"How do you know so much?" asked the King.
"The guilds have much knowledge sire, we must to keep tabs on all of the Dedicated in Gran Adageros. We recieved word of this before you had even left the northern coast of Asheri. I have pledged myself to find yor daughter, Scarlet, and bring her home to you safely," Kaliva orated well, she had learned in Ancient Fayre, but she was still somewhat unfamiliar with the politics of Gania.
"You are of the Free Lancers then?" The King asked and Kaliva nodded, "Well enough, We have a man on the job already, but you may assist him if you see fit. His name is Xarou, and he is a member of the Royal Guard. Show him this token and he will trust you, he knows what it means," He bid one of the servants hand Kaliva a small coin like token, with the royal crest emblazoned on it.
"Thank you for allowing the Free Lancers to assist you Majesty, we are at your service, as always,"
With that Kaliva rose and made her exiting bows to the King and Queen, when the Queen interrupted, "Please bring Scarlet hime safe!"
"I shall, My majesty, I shall," was her reply, and she stole out of the chamber. Within a Hour, she was in Evisis. Then, within another five minutes, via the portals and beacons located within the Black Tower, she was only miles outside of Dargent. Now she was on the tracks. She would give the dark lord what she needed.
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 10-23-2001 12:18 AM
Caliph did not often travel. It was harder on him than most, the vagrant's life, because he would travel at night and take cover in the day. So as much as he ached to go to the scene of the battle, he held himself back. Best to see what he could do before charging off, he thought.
And reports continually came to him from other travellers that would make their way past his home, or through nearby towns, where he would frequent the taverns at night to hear rumors and to sample the ale.
And throughout the night he could be heard, from time to time, in the report of his rifle.
CUE: Yeah, I'm clueless. Duh.
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Volsung on 10-23-2001 09:32 AM
Fire and Wolves
In that flash of light a great wave of magic came off as the to magic fields linked in a way they never should. The wave injured the others three and killed every wolf in sight, but this did not keep the wolves at bay for never long. In the mean time, both Volsung and Met were on the ground next to each other with the sword in their hands. Both Volsung and Met looked unhurt, but nether were moving. Veritas being the one who had the most time to brace for the impact of the wave was now the only one is any shape to fight. “Hey you need to get up the wolves are coming back, and I can’t handle them all by myself.” Then Volsung, Met got up, and each one still holding the sword in their hands. “Are you two ok?”
“Met lied a little bit when he said that madness was the only side effect. You see we will both be attached to his sword until we pass out from effort or we die,” Said Volsung. Met had to words, but he did nodded his head in agreement.
“We need to fight the wolves are here again.” The Wolves were starting to the group, and this time there were twice as many as there had been the first time.
Then out of the Blue, Met spoke up “Veritas hit your brother with a bolt of light to knock him out that way I can take that sword into battle with the wolves.”
“No you can’t handle it by yourself you will go mad a die,” said Volsung in an anger voice.
“This is my day and not yours, to because more than a man, but to become a legend.” Then Met Turn to Veritas “If you care for your brother at all you will do this or he will meet the same fate as me and if you do this now he may even recover in time to help you, but time is wearing thin you must decide now.”
“Don’t Veritas There most be anther way?” screamed Volsung as Veritas looked at the two as they held the sword.
“Sorry Brother, but if this is the only way to save you then I will do it. When we set out I told Mother that I would do anything to take care of you and I don’t plan braking my promise.” With that, a small bolt of lighting left Veritas left hand and hit Volsung in the upper chest. With that link between Volsung, Met and the Sword was broken and Volsung hand let go.
“Thank you, you have done a great serves to the King of Gania. I’m off.” Met wasted no driving back that hordes of wolves with his new found power, but with ever swipe of he the blade Met because madder and madder.
“I did not do this for you or the king or myself for that matter I did this to keep my word and I will bare your death on my hands, but better that then that then the wound that would come from the death of my brother.” Said Veritas and the tears began falling down her face, but there was fighting to be done and even though Met had drew off the main horde of wolves. There were still a few hundred wolves between Veritas and the great circles. Veritas held nothing back, every part of her was on fire and nothing could stop her were kill and dozen with one blow before now she killed three dozen, but it was taking its toll on her and she too would have died on that day if it had not been for Volsung. Volsung called to Veritas, but she did not reply but Volsung lifted himself off the ground and started fighting beside Veritas, and then she spoke up. “What are you doing you are hurt, you can’t fight.”
“You know better than that I can fight as well as you if not better, so you have no place to talk.” Veritas tried to rebut what Volsung was saying but she knew that it was true and so she said nothing. “You are going to kill yourself if you did what you thought was right then don’t worry about it because if we can’t do what is right then what is the point of it all. Now lets get back to that circles.” Volsung put up his ora around the group and Veritas started picking for wolves again, but at a more reasonable rate than before. They did not move but instead they waited for Leada and Pylos to regain consciousness that way everyone could fight, and no one had to be carried. They didn’t have to wait very long before Leada was the first to wake up.
“What happen? Where is Met?” She said in a frantic voice.
“He is gone, and I don’t think that he will be coming back.” Said Veritas in a sad voice, Leada now wept openly. “Leada there will be time for that later, but that wolves are attacking and we need you to try to heal Pylos that way we can start moving back towards the temple,” Leada nodded her head and as the tear fell she crawled to where Pylos lied, when she healed she him. Pylos woke up right always.
“Thank you Leada, now can you tell what is going on here,” Said Pylos.
Suddenly Volsung spoke up. “We are falling back to base before it’s to late. Now Pylos guard Leada I’m going to drop my ora that way myself and Veritas can both fight.”
“I understand,” said Pylos as he gabbed Leada and helped her walk. Then Volsung and Veritas started fighting. Volsung took the job of clearing the path and Veritas held he wolves’ at bay. They when like this for about an hour, when they were almost to the Great Circles of the Temple, most of the wolves were now lying on the ground dead. When all of that sudden the last of the wolves started retreated back to the hill. Not letting any opportunity escape, them they are ran back to that outer Circle. Once they got there, they watched the last of the wolves clear the hills never to he seen again. Then they all see a great light coming from the same direction, Veritas was to realize what it was.
“That’s Met. THAT IS MET! I thought that he would be died by now I never thought that I would make it back alive,” Said Veritas.
“I think your right Veritas. I don’t think any wolf could do that.” Said Volsung as he stared at the light that was now just about to the top hill. Everyone watched hoping that it was him, when he cleared the hill a great cheer when up among the four, but cheering stopped quickly as the group realized that something was wrong with Met.
“Don’t go any Closer he has gone mad and he will kill any thing that gets in his way. I think that are best bet in to run back to the temple and leave him to his fate,” Said Pylos.
“Leave him, LEAVE HIM! How can you say something like that? We have to try to save him,” said Leada cries.
“He is beyond our help. He mad and he is about to become ashes like those he was spend that night killing,” said Pylos. Volsung and Veritas took this time to get one last look at there friend and then they turned and walked back to the temple it had been a long night and done knew what that next few days would bring, but they did know that regardless of the changes they would have to go on without Met.
As they walked back, the sun rose over the hill, and they all turned back to the east to look at it. Met stood there and as the sun hit him they could heard him say “I am ready to because something greater.” And with that, he turned into a great fireball that burned everything within a hundred yards of Met. They all bowed their heads in respect to their friend.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Indigo Grei on 10-23-2001 09:51 PM
Scarlet was gone when Indigo awoke. At first, he thought nothing of it, she often went for morning walks. It wasn't until he noticed that she left her sword on the dresser that he began to worry.
It wasn't an immediate fear, so he clothed and packed his stuff back into his bag before leaving the room. The hallway was quiet. Scarlet wasn't around. He traversed the distance to the stairs and descended to the first floor. The lobby was as empty as the hall, except for the woman at the counter. She was about Scarlet's age, but not as attractive, in Indigo's opinion. He approached the desk with an expression of worry on his face.
"Have you seen Scarlet? The woman I was with?" he asked.
"I'm not sure. What does she look like?"
Indigo described her, but she told him in no uncertain terms that she had not come through the front in the last two hours. Indigo returned to the room to think.
It wasn't like her to leave without telling him, she hadn't even left a note. Indigo was worried that she was in trouble. ...No, he was certain. But where would he start?
A sinister face crept into his mind. Xarou... That bastard must have kidnapped her! Indigo thought. It seemed that he had his work cut out for him. He clenched his fists, grabbed his and Scarlet's belongings, and headed into town, searching for info on a certain malicious man.
He said a prayer of safety; he was going to get his hands dirty this time.
Caliph, if you're near Callendar anytime soon, I may require the services of someone who knows a bit more about guns than myself. Salamander needs an upgrade.
__________________
Who are you? Who is Dolensirion?! What's happening to me?!?!
Posted by Volsung on 10-23-2001 11:28 PM
The dedication of Veritas
OOC: this post is from the prospective of Veritas Vesper
IC: After the death of Met and the defeat of the Black Wolves. Volsung and Veritas when back to the temple and slept for three days. In that time Veritas had a never odd dream. Veritas was but a girl in her early teens and she was back in Farai. "Father are you going to train today or not."
"Sorry Veritas but I have guard duty today. I bet if your nice your mother will train you," Said Eros
"But I don't like Moms training she doesn't push me as hard as you do."
"I'm sorry but that is the way it is now I have to go." With that Eros left, leaving Veritas with her wooden sword.
"Well I don't need him anyway I will just train on my own," and so Veritas started training on her own for the rest of the day. Then about three in the afternoon Veritas heard screams coming from that village. Veritas ran out to investigate. When she got outside she seen bodes everywhere. In fact she had been missed because she had been training in that basement and had not hear the screams until they were almost past her. In any case Veritas looked around for the people who had done this. Her wait was short because she ran into a man dressed all in Black who face couldn’t be seen, he was about to kill Veritas when Eros came from behind and stabbed that man in the back. The man was hurt but before he ran off he pulled the sword out of his back and the then stabbed Eros right in the crest with it. Then he pulled out the sword and ran west. Veritas didn’t know what to do, at first she felt like run home, but then she thought ‘would dad run? No would stay with me regardless.’ So Veritas walked over to Eros and sat beside him.
"Thank you daughter. I knew that you were brave with a heart of gold." then there was flash of light.
"You have passed." Said a voice is white room.
"Passed what?" Asked Veritas as she sat there trying to figure our what just happen to her.
"Your dedication, you see the first time you seen your father dying you ran back home not know what to do, but still time you showed us that you have heart and that you are brave. Receive Air."
*****(Veritas waking up)*******************
Veritas woke thinking of her father and the black man who had killed him, but the rest of the dream quickly faded into the abysses.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 10-24-2001 03:46 AM
OOC: The maps give no real sense of scale, as in distance... he's in the Soulwood somewhere right now, and his likely exit point for the woods is Synarin, because he is not apt to like the roads. I have no clue how long it would take him walking, but I can't see him on a horse. But Callendar is near Dargent, which is where he feels drawn towards anyways. He'll set out now, in the dark, and when he finds himself there, he's there.
IC: Most provisions could be safely left. He could find plenty to eat in the forest, of course, and along the roads, places hospitable to traders could always be found, if one had the coin. So coin was important. But when carrying any good sum of money, one should take care to dress down, so as to not let on to passing vagabonds. Just the same, Caliph would not dare to leave the woods without a cloak. That would slow him down some, but there was nothing to be done about it.
Water, then, would be very key. He had two flasks with him, and neither one had spirits in them. Of course they would have to be refilled, but as he was counting on getting provender along the way, so would he trust in finding water, either by barter or by skill.
More troublesome was bullets. That would be the rub, and he carried upon him as many as he could spare room for. He packed them carefully, wrapped in skins, to preserve them from moisture that might damp the powder any. He didn't trust in finding many elsewhere, but he was resourceful enough to be able to fashion more if time provided, but it rarely did, did it? Luckily for him, the rifle and the pistol were both of the same caliber, so there was no worries of which type of ammunition would be needed.
The rifle had been broken down and placed into the pack, for carrying it openly might arouse more suspicion than any protection it would provide. For such conflicts that might arise, he would have to trust to the pistol, which was on him, although well concealed. Any trouble he ran into would most likely be in closer quarters, where the pistol was of more use in any case.
He was also handy enough with a sword, though not a savant, but the sword would mark him as conspicous, and unlike the rifle it could not be broken down until needed. So he didn't carry one. The dagger should be all he would need.
And so he set off for Synarin through the woods, and there he would take to the roads. He was lighly loaded and moved briskly through the woods, although at Synarin he hoped he could find some passage which would accomodate him.
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-25-2001 04:01 PM
Kaliva stepped out of the cave near Dargent where the Waypoints within the Black Tower had placed her. It would take her several hours in flight to reach Callendar, where agents of the Shadow had last reported seeing the woman. As she flew upon her feathery wings, Kaliva formulated a plan with which she could track the woman, but it would be harder than she had previously thought.
Becasue the blood within her veins carried much the same properties of the blood of her parents, she could use the blood obtained by a sevron healer within the palace to track Scarlet. This would be less than perfect, but it was the best she could do, unless Linerin would have allowed her the use of the scrying chamber within the tower. She hadn't even asked, she knew what his response would have been.
As she landed on the rooftop of a building in Callendar, she withdrew the wings, and released the water weave about her that had distorted all perceptions of her into that of a simple blue blur. She removed a small vial of blood from her belt pouch, and set to weaving the body magics that would allow her to sense the direction of relations to this blood.
OOC: So now there are two on the hunt for Scarlet.. Indy, do ya need a partner? Heh, heh...
Also, Caliph, if you look at the map of Asheri, there is an island called Demos Island. One could travel across that island in a horizontal fashion (according to the map) in about 2 days. I calculate that distance to be nearly 40 miles. So from Synarin to Dargent, cross country (straight line) would take about 6 to 8 days..
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Black Mage on 10-25-2001 06:16 PM
A Boy about 17 or 18; short black hair walked out of the local tavern he had long pointed ears exactly a 3 quarter of a foot in length stumbling into the alley next to the tavern. His head was throbbing woozy. He lay down and passed out. Latter that night he awoke. He had a splitting headache. That was the first time he had ever drank more than a sip of beer. Much less had enough money to pay for it. Although he had been hired for a temporary guard. As he tried to make it home as best as he could the bridge hard wouldn’t let him through to get to his house. Cranky, tired, and still quite drunk the guard started to taunt Garth. “’Your eleven scum your not even full elf. Ha ha ha.” The laughter trailed off. Garth was used to this kind of thing all though he was drunk the feelings of hated piled up from years of torment where finally unleashed. He drew his sword. Rather brilliant for a sword that had been passed down from generation to generation. It was long and thin. The guard chuckled and thought; I’ve been waiting for this. He slowly drew his sword and swung. Garth pulled up his sword to block and then thrust it forward stabbing the guard. As Garth pulled the sword from wounded guard he realized what he had done and he quickly sheathed his sword while running he ran in his room the alcohol having no immediate effect. He gathered some of what he owned and left and envelope with his rent and left forever.
__________________
Don't laugh it works
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 10-25-2001 08:22 PM
OOC: So 6-8 as the crow flies... I measure 10 days roughly by the road. Disagreeable. If I weren't such a newbie I'd find some other way than on foot.
IC: He was nearing the forest's edge now, without an incident so far. Strange, that so close to war one could easily find peace by not looking out so far into the distance.
And stranger still how anxious ones can feel to be closer to it.
Caliph went on tirelessly, tiring by night and by much of the day. He was making good time.
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Orocia Agua on 10-25-2001 10:57 PM
Orocia knew it was long past last call at The Brass Monkey. She entered the tavern through the back, where the rooms were. She asked Rublicant to stay in her room and wait for her to get back. She didn't want her friends to raise any suspicions about him. Anyways, she wouldn't have listened to it: she was much too independent; she made her own choices about her own life, even if they weren't always the best choices. But choices are always half decision, half fate. You can't change fate, but you can change destiny through your choices - a lesson Orocia had learned well in her 20 years.
Many choices laid before her for her choosing. Go to Asheri with a man she had just met, and leave trusted friends, a decent job, and a home? She almost felt like she was running away from her problems... That wasn't her style. She knew she could deal with a bunch of bloodthirsty sailors, even a whole crew. Not all at once, mind you. She had her ways. No! I left that life! I'm doing this the right way! Her hands balled up into fists and shook, with anger and fear, directed only at herself. She was angry that she was even thinking of such solutions, and afraid of the feelings that called within her to use them. But she wouldn't let emotions control her. She let nothing control her.
Finally, she stood up straight off the wall she was leaning on, and walked out of the hallway towards the restaurant/bar area. Everyone was there waiting anxiously for her return, even the new recruits. Orocia was surprised, and embarrassed, to say the least.
For a second, anyways, as Alesshka once again surprised Orocia with the strength of her thin arms squeezing her. "OROCIA!! I'm so glad you're okay!!" Alesshka wasn't letting go anytime soon.
Orocia hugged Al back, possibly for the last time. "Of course I am, Al. You know who I am!" It was then Alesshka noticed the soft, blue silk blouse. "...Where were you???"
JackLynn went up to Orocia. She still felt uncomfortable getting close to Orocia after what she had allowed to happen to her. She basically used Orocia for profit. Not like that was anything new for Orocia. "Yes... where were you, Orocia? We saw a huge group of men leave after you did. We thought--"
"Yes. They want revenge for ol' One Hand Chuck," Orocia looked sternly back at JackLynn.
"..so, did they catch up to you?"
"Yeah.. but a new friend of mine helped me out."
It all clicked in Alesshka's mind, "It was that man!! That man you were talking to!! Before you left!!"
"Yes, he's helping me. I trust him," Not totally, Orocia thought,"...so you all should trust my choice to go with him to Asheri."
Expressions of shock fell upon her friends' faces.
"Don't worry about me. I'm one of the last people in this world you should worry about. Worry about yourselves... I'm sure if those jerks can't get me, they'll definitely get one of you..." Orocia suddenly felt horrible. She should stay, to protect her friends. She could never forgive herself if any of them, all innocent of any crime except being her friend, were to get hurt in any way.
She suddenly took on a pensive mood, looking downward. Ronald spoke, "Tiger... whatever you do, I'm behind you. Just think this through, please."
"Sure," she looked up at Roland and smiled. She turned her smile to Ferris, the bouncer,"Big Boy, you can take care of The Brass Monkey, right?"
He flexed one of his mighty biceps,"Always did, always will, Tigah."
Orocia sighed. She had a lot of thinking to do by tomorrow. But there was something she needed to do.
"Alright guys, I'm leaving tomorrow night. But before then, I've got things to take care of. It'll help you all out, I promise! I wouldn't leave you guys unless I knew you would be safe!" She smiled at all of them, even the new recruits who she barely knew. Maybe she might get to know them later on... maybe.
"Let's get some rest, guys... It's been a long night."
No one argued against that. But both Alesshka and Barbarette stayed behind and close to Orocia as she went to her room.
"Guys.. gimme just one moment. I have a guest in my room,"
"IT'S THAT GUY?!?" Al nearly shoved Orocia into the room, trying to get a peek at-- "Mystery Man!! ha ha ha!! Aw, c'mon Orocia, can't I just say hi?" Al grinned at Orocia. Barbie just smiled timidly.
"NO. Besides, he needs to get back and take care of his own business, it'd be rude to keep him any longer. Just wait for me outside, I'll let you in when we're done--"
Alesshka giggled, "Doin' what? Takin' care of business, right? Heh, I know, it should only take 15 minutes--"
Orocia slammed the door in Al's face.
"Geez, can't ya take a joke?" Al humphed and sat down against the wall. Barbie waited along with her, but didn't join Al in her eavesdropping.
Orocia locked the door and joined Rublicant by the window. "Well, I took care of most of it."
"Most of it? What else is there?"
"A favor I need to ask of someone. But that's for later. You'll see me here tomorrow night, then?"
"Yes."
Orocia smiled up appreciatively at Rublicant. Why on earth are you doing this for me? she thought. Surprisingly, she kissed him on his cheek, "Rest well." But she quickly walked back towards the door, and before she opened it to let her friends in, she looked back to make sure he left. All that was there was the mist creeping in through the window.
OOC: Orocia has business to finish before she leaves, and I'm sure Rublicant must do the same.
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-25-2001 11:56 PM
Rublicant slept the day away until he woke the next evening. He had a good rest, but something inside him, something about Orocia, grabbed at him and wouldn't let go. He stifled himself and made preperations for his departure. He met briefly with his agent, and dissolved all of his resources within Gran Adageros, moving them back to Asheri via his agent, and a series of written credits.
He wrote a letter to Adamas, letting him know that he was leaving the house to him and Gaireth, and that if he needed any money, to only contact his agent and give him a certain code word. The scar about the eye was also one of the keys for this transaction. Rublicant had never seen a scar the same way.
He then set out to hunt..
His first victim for the night was a young man, just out of his teens. Rublicant discovered him in the misty gardens of Noit, and followed him through the gardens into the wealthy portion of the city, where he took him in an alleyway. His body was buried easily in the Ganian cemetary within Noit.
The second victim for the night was a slobbering drunk for an area in the dock ward, near the Brass Monkey. His blood was warm and thin, flowing with alchohol as to make Rublicant ever so slightly drunk. It was a good feeling, one that he had not expierenced since the transformation. He made his way, in a slightly enibriated state, towards the Brass Monkey, where he hoped to meet Orocia, or if not, to just sit in the bar and have a few cigarettes, and wait for her, who knows, he thought, "I might even be able to meet some of her friends.."
OOC: Sorry for the shortness of the post, but I'm drunk, cut me some slack. Rublicant's a little tipsy and waiting for Orocia in the bar. He's scanning the minds of people around him and will ask question about her that any infatuated boy might ask of his target's friends. He's ready to fly to Asheri whenever you are, but we have to leave by midnight to make it to Lunis safely.
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Volsung on 10-26-2001 12:00 AM
On the road again
During the time that Volsung and Veritas slept Leada and Pylos started getting things ready for their return to Gania. Pylos when to the southern cost of the island started working on a small boat to get them back the main land. Leada spent her time getting ready to meet with the king and to give the island back to him. Also she started getting the temples back in order, because she knew that the king would be visiting very soon.
During the following days after Volsung woke up he when to work writing about Met, about the teacher, the Priest, and the hero. Volsung had started this journey hoping to write that stories of the lost, and to this point Volsung had not found anyone more lost than Met. He was a man on island surrounded by wolves never really knowing his own home. But in this wilderness Met became something greater something which we all hope to become, he became a hero. Volsung wrote down everything that Met had told him, and everyday they spend together so that everyone could someday juide him for themselves.
The days passed quickly and when everything was made ready Leada, and Volsung headed to the site where Pylos had started building the boat Veritas had when down the day earlier to help Pylos. Before leaving Volsung went out to the site where Met had turned in to a fireball. When Volsung walked up to it he that found that it was still warm from the fire. Volsung gabbed it and put it in his sheath, and then started walking south. When Volsung and Leada got Veritas and Pylos they had finished the small boat. "Well it looks like it time to get going. Pylos I want you to go back to the temple and to watch things there. If all goes well I should be back in a week or two."
"I will do that I the mean time I can start fixing up the East Temple it is in petty bad shape," said Pylos as he turned around to walk back.
After Pylos had started walking back Veritas spoke up "Well we are finally getting off this island."
"Thank God I’m looking forward seeing something besides short grass and scattered trees for what seems like years. Great Maker how long have we been on this island anyway?" Said Volsung as he turned to the sea thinking about all the things that lied beyond.
"Well the Windsword was destroyed on the rocks on September 16, and today in October 26, so that makes forty days."
"How it seems like it’s been a lot longer than that. And how have you been able to keep track of the days I lot track a few days after we got here," said Volsung.
"Well didn’t spend any days passed out from burns or spend a few days in a dark temple with no light."
"I see your…" Then Leada interrupted
"If you don’t mind we are going to be on the water for about a hour in this little sail boat so you will have plenty of time to talk on the water ok."
"Fine," said both at the same time. Then Leada climbed into the boat, and
Volsung and Veritas pushed it into the water and then they hopped in. After
Getting into themselves, they started rowing the boat a way from shore and then Veritas put up the sail and they were off.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Orocia Agua on 10-27-2001 10:20 PM
Questions, questions...
"Alright, you can come in now," Orocia smiled sheepishly as Al and Barbie walked in.
"YEAH, AFTER he leaves, gee, THANKS for INTRODUCING ME to your "guest"! Oh my! He was soooo charming!!!" Al mouthed off, every word drenching wet in sarcasm.
"Hey, your friend looked kinda sick, from what I saw of him," said Barbie, looking for a good spot to plop on.
"Er... He just needs some sun, that's all.." Orocia smiled at the irony of her statement.
"So, who is this guy??" Al flopped next to Barbie on the bed, both of their legs wading back and forth mindlessly in the air.
Orocia walked around the bed behind them, taking off the blue silk blouse Rublicant gave her and nonchalantly throwing it behind her on Al's head. She stood before the mirror and inspected his work on her chest. She smiled at the barely noticeable scar, remembering her previous worry about it.
"Well, take a look at that shirt and you tell me," Orocia slid out of her barmaid's skirt and bent down to her right to pick up a nightshirt.
"Why do you make everything hard for me?" Alesshka felt the blouse. "Well, it's silk, so he's RICH!" Al flashed a wide smile. "Where's he from, again? He didn't look like he was from around here.."
"Asheri. And that's Lunari silk in those hands of yours," Orocia slipped into her nightshirt.
Barbie inspected the blouse,"Is he.. a nobleman?"
Orocia flew backwards, arms crossed behind her head, and landed in the narrow gap between Al and Barbie, intentionally ungraceful, "Yep."
"So you're leaving us for the money... huh!" Al frowned at Orocia.
"Al, you know it's nothing like that... why on earth would I have been a sailor these past five years then?"
"Well, weren't you living in Corner before you were a sailor? What'd you do there? Beg for money? You're too proud for that!!" Al took back the blouse and felt its softness some more.
Orocia quickly repressed her feelings about her years in Corner, when she lived off the riches of the upper class, and tried to find an answer that wasn't too far from the truth. "I-- uhh... mn!!" She averted her eyes from Al's curious stare. "It wasn't begging. You're right about that. But I managed to have the rich take some pity on a poor, lost soul like me.. er.." Trying to find a suitable, decent answer was proving very difficult. There was nothing decent about what she did, especially when one took into account her young age. It was absolutely horrifying, shaking anyone's beliefs about what things a young person, practically a child, especially a girl, could do. Would let herself do. Would make herself do.
"I did odd jobs for the rich."
"Oh. Well, ya gotta make a living somehow, right?"
"Yeah.." Orocia inwardly let out a sigh of relief.
"Man, your life must be interesting!! I wish I could've done all the things you probably did!!" Barbie smiled enviously at Orocia.
Orocia cringed. She rolled on her tummy to avoid having Barbie notice her discomfort. Thankfully, Al changed the subject. "So whatcha gonna do in Asheri?"
"I dunno." Orocia dangled her arms over the side of the bed, and stared off into space.
"Well..." and Barbie's cheeks flushed slightly as she spoke, "you kinda remind me of a gypsy." She hoped she didn't sound stupid.
A soft smile dawned upon Orocia's lips, "Really?" It wasn't the first time someone mentioned that. She remembered Ruben, back on the Magnolia, saying the very same thing. Orocia turned her gaze towards Barbie. "I guess..."
"Don't you know your parents?" Barbie didn't mean to put Orocia on the spot but curiosity was getting the best of her.
"YES!" Orocia spat out indignantly. "Yes I do!!" She looked back at Barbie, who felt awful for even asking. "Ohhhh!!... Barbarette, I didn't mean to yell at you. I'm sorry. It's just--" Orocia lowered her voice, to soft sadness, "I was separated from them when I was nine." She looked downwards, "Somebody thought they weren't fit to raise me and Rio."
The air was chokingly quiet. But Orocia always managed to break the silence somehow. "Rio's my brother. We stayed together until I was twelve." Orocia slowly got up and pulled down the covers off her bed. "Guys.. I try not to think about the future. It usually ends up being something you never even imagined anyways." She fluffed up the pillows, and grinned at the two girls, "...Do you two want to keep me warm or something? I'm about to go to sleep. I've got a long day ahead of me tomorrow."
Barbie got off the bed first,"Alriiiight.. I'm heading back home, my ride's probably waiting for me! Good night! And good luck, just in case I don't see you tomorrow!"
"Thanks, Barbarette! Good luck to ya too! Don't let me down now! You better show Al those bartending skills!"
"Right! Bye!"
Alesshka looked at Orocia. "I'll keep you warm tonight." She smiled,"You're like a sister to me. As much as I hated sharing a bed with you back then, I don't want you to leave me tomorrow without saying goodbye. Not like last time. I'm going back to my room to dress down, so don't take the sheets all for yourself now! And try not to push me off the edge of the bed this time!"
"As long as you don't kick me!" Orocia smiled back at Al as she left for her room. She comfied herself up on her side of the bed, thinking about tomorrow.
A wry grin flashed over her lips,".....It's what I want from you, Lieutenant Junior Grade Aerin Chevalier!!"
OOC: No I'm not done. Don't worry it won't take long, I just don't like there being holes in my plot.
Posted by Volsung on 10-28-2001 12:15 AM
playing it safe
The Boat ride went very smooth, but this part of the canal was known for it calm water. After reaching shore, the group rested and made camp for the night. During the night Volsung barely slept, taking most of the night to look at the stars and smell the air. “What are you doing up at this hour Volsung?” Asked a person in the shadows
With out thinking to ask who was asking Volsung replied, “I’m just enjoy that first night off of Greyon. It seems different some how as if this place is completely different. It’s all very odd. I mean its not like I have traveled all that much, but still this I have never felt this way, I have spent the better part of my life on and around Gania and now it no longer feels like home.”
“I feel the same way I think that it has to do this the fact that we have never been this far for the dedication site, after we were dedicated,” said the voice.
“I guess you could be right, by the way what are you doing up Leada?”
“How did you know it was me?”
“Because Veritas sleeps like a rock and you are the only other person that could be up. That how I knew, so you feel the same as it do well I guess that makes me feel a little better.” Then Volsung paused for a little bit to gather his thoughts, “What do you think will happen when we get to Gania?”
“I don’t really know, when we get there the king will talk to me, but it maybe a few days before he sees you. I don’t really know when I left 25 years ago and that time the king was very young and was learning his role, so I don’t know how he will act when he hears the news.”
“Well if that’s the case I guess I’m going to berry the sword under that tree that way I don’t have to worry about losing it when the guards search us.”
“That’s a good Idea anyway because its better to go unarmed anyway. Its not it you can’t take care of yourself,” said Veritas.
“Ok, well it looks it the sun is rising we had better hurry up and berry this sword and then wake Veritas up.”
“Sounds like a plan to me. I will get started on breakfast if you don’t mind I know you like to make breakfast.”
“It’s ok,” then Leada turned and walked back to the camp. Volsung also started walking to the tree when he got there he unsheathed his sword and marked the tree with an x. Then he cut out a small piece of grass then dug a hole put a the sword into it and then he put the grass back to make it looks as if that ground had not been disturbed. After that Volsung walked back to camp to woke up Veritas, and then they went and ate breakfast that Leada than made. After Breakfast, the packed up their things and headed south to
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Volsung on 10-28-2001 02:28 AM
on to the king
The day pasted slowly with nothing to do but wait so Volsung and Veritas mainly spent the day talking about what it anything they would ask of the king for there service to him. “Personally I would like to stay out of the guild I just don’t think that we would get along, and don’t think they will think to highly of my travels, and the way I tend not to silence to people went being bossed around” said Volsung.
“I see your point and I might ask for the same thing too, but the thing I really want is my own ship and crew. You see I heard a story about two years ago about a woman sailor. Every since I wondered if I could do that, well I think I could now in fact I think that would be a small challenge with the raw power that I now poses. But being a captain of a ship takes a lot more than just raw power you have to be able to work with people so I think that I will ask for my own ship.”
“Wow,” said Volsung. He never knew that Veritas had such big dreams. “That’s great I hope you get it I mean you can’t be any worse than that captain of the Windsword.”
“Ya just image the look on his face if he would have seen me sailing out of port on my own ship,” said Veritas with a big smile on her face.
“Bet your whole crew would be laughing, as his jaw sat on the ground. So would you be will to do a favor for your little brother like take me to Ioty?”
“You know it, but I would also ask the king that the ship be full of some rare cargo meant for Ioty that way I would be able to pay my crew.”
“Your right. I guess I never thought of that. Oh well I personally plan see Akaros in the same way we seen Gania.”
“Well I will take you their, but I think that when we get there we will have to go our own ways for a while,” said Veritas in a very sad voice.
“Yes I thought as much as well. It that is our fate then that’s our fate and I think that we can’t question it, but let worry about that after we have this meeting with the king.”
“That sounds like a very sound idea, I mean he give us nothing and just kick us out,” and that is how it went for the rest of the day, and then it started getting dark. Then about an hour after sunset Leada came riding up with a man coved in a dark red robe on a white and brown horse.
“I have spoken to the king. He is going to see you two but he wish’s that you spend the night in the caste.”
“Who are we to argue with a king,” said Veritas.
“Good Volsung your with me, Veritas your with John.” They climbed on and rode to the King.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Orocia Agua on 10-28-2001 04:23 PM
It was six in the morning when Orocia woke up. She felt well rested but was too anxious to sleep anymore, so she got out of bed, taking care not to wake up Al. Alesshka wasn't a morning person. Something about today just felt different. Like a new start...
Orocia stretched her arms and back as she walked over to the window. Dawn hadn't risen yet but it was coming soon, because Orocia felt that bustle of excitement she had come to recognize in the air right before dawn broke, from her many duties of morning watch at the crow's nest of so many ships she had been a crewmember of. She wondered if she'd ever go back to the oceans again as a sailor... But a part of her told her not to worry; the salt of the oceans ran strongly in her blood.
She looked for a particular outfit that she hadn't worn in a long time as she dug through her duffle bag. She still hadn't unpacked, mostly from habit of always finding herself picking up and moving again. She smiled as she found it. It needed some ironing to take out a few wrinkles, but it was nothing bad. She flipped down an ironing board and found the cast iron in the wall, taking it to the kitchen to boil up a pot of steaming hot water to heat up the iron in. As she walked back to the room with the pot, dawn's first rays were streaming across the land and the birds were singing.
At least she didn't need any starch. The ironing took just under 10 minutes, and she put the outfit in a hanger to dry and take shape from the steam. She then proceeded to the bathroom to shower and get ready. Alesshka was still sleeping soundly as a dripping wet Orocia walked back, a cloud of steam following her. Orocia was naturally quiet in her usual activities but still took care not to wake her friend.
The sun was out, and it was a bit past seven. Orocia stood in the mirror, smiling at her image as she was now in her favorite outfit, almost done dressing. It was a cute, ruffly, white dress with small red polka dots. She had on her seashell necklace and her gold loop earrings. She slid her feet into a pair of comfortable, low-heeled, white sandals, and all that was left was her hair.
"Hmm.. Up or down?"
Unknown to Orocia, Al woke up to see Orocia swirling around in her dress, and tried to hold back her giggles. She'd never seen this side of her friend before. But she answered Orocia's question,"Up."
"Oh! Hey there, Alley Cat!" Orocia turned around to face Alesshka, ruffles following, and was practically glowing in the dawn's light.
"Wow, Orocia, ...hee hee, who're you tryin' to impress?" Al reached over to the nightstand for a comb and motioned for Orocia to sit down on the bed.
As Al combed her hair, Orocia replied,"No one. I just wanted to dress up, I just felt like it. But I do have to speak with someone today for their help. I'm gonna have the powers that be keep an eye out for JackLynn and all of you.."
Al looked at Orocia and decided a simple ponytail with Orocia's bangs falling around her face would look cute and proceeded, grabbing Orocia's white kerchief from the same nightstand. "Your connections never cease to amaze me, Orocia... Who will you have bless us with their protection from the evil that surrounds us?" Al asked, with her usual sarcasm.
"Remember those two navy officers that helped me? I'm going out to their duty station today to have a little chat. I should be back by two or three in the afternoon."
"Is it going to take that long?" Al tied up Orocia's hair in a cute bowtie and turned her face towards her own to fix her bangs.
"Maybe... If not, I'll just walk around the docks, and say goodbye."
"To who?"
"I dunno.. the ocean. I don't know if I'll ever see her again..."
"What about ME?"
"I said I'll be coming back!! If ya want, we could go to the beach or something.."
Al smiled. "We didn't get to spend much time together when we first met, ya know?"
"But when we first met you were a little jealous of me.. It wasn't like now, remember?"
"I wasn't that jealous of you!! Just because you had guys swarming all over at YOUR side of the bar!!" Al shoved Orocia off the bed,"There, I'm done with your hair, go and do whatever!! I'll be here if ya need me..."
Orocia grabbed a nearby white satchel, placed her two daggers in it along with her kerchief, some lip balm, a mirror, and some money (she always carried just the bare essentials with her) and headed off. "See ya later!!"
Posted by Orocia Agua on 10-28-2001 06:36 PM
It was a beautiful day as Orocia walked about the streets of Noit. Yes, still misty as always, but it seemed to clear out wherever Orocia went. She just felt radiant today. She couldn't explain it. And much to her embarrassment men would stop what they were doing just to catch a glimpse of her. Not that she didn't like the attention, but it was still overwhelming. And she especially shyed away from the women... The expressions on the majority of the women's faces were enough to frighten any man, but Orocia was used to it by now. She didn't wear makeup, except for a little lipcolor every now and then or some eyeliner but for the most part she was happy going natural. Anything more would have made her feel like she was chained down to hiding behind a mask to make her feel pretty everyday. Which Orocia's freespirit would never had allowed to happen. Lucky for her, she didn't need makeup. A fact that made the women even more hostile towards Orocia.
As she asked around for directions to the Akrainian Naval station, she overheard the gossip among nearby sailors about what happened last night and the bounty the crew put on her head for any sailor that brings her to them, dead or alive. Luckily for her, no one expected the "rough and tough" Tiger Lily to be walking the streets the next morning in a pretty dress. With some friendly directions and plenty of admiring looks, she quickly found herself at the steps of the headquarters. It was small, because in Gran Adageros there was no need for military except to keep the peace, and there was plenty of peace between Akaros and Gania, so the military was kept to a minimum, mostly to provide basic services under the King and Queen of Akaros, such as law enforcement (to keep the peace among the people); but the military also provided training, for the price of one's service to Akaros, for those who could not afford to go to a school to learn the trade they desired. Although the military's codes of conduct were strict, the training was top quality.
Orocia hoped to find one of the two helpful Naval officers at the headquarters. She walked up to the receptionist, a petite woman, who was obviously fresh out of basic training and schooling.
"How may I help you, Ma'am?" the woman asked, with a sweet smile.
"I'm looking for two officers, young men. Either one will be fine."
"And what are their names, Ma'am?" The petite woman immediately pulled out a book with a roster of sailors.
"Lieutenant Jr. Grade Aerin Chevalier or Ensign Robert Goodwinde."
Out of nowhere, a familiar, jovial voice rang out from behind. "Looking for us, Ma'am?"
Orocia turned around to see the two men, prim and proper, in their light blue uniforms. Robert spoke,"I don't believe I know you Ma'am, although you look strikingly familiar.. Is there something you need to speak with us about Ma'am?"
Orocia smiled, and tried to cover her laughter, "Yes.."
Aerin walked up to Orocia, put his hand behind her back, and said to the receptionist,"Thank You, we'll take it from here."
"Yes, Sir." The receptionist went back to her duties.
He led Orocia to an office, where the three could speak in private. After the three sat down and got comfortable, Aerin asked, "Do we know you from somewhere, Ma'am?"
Orocia smiled,"Well, it was you who said to come back to you and ask what you wanted in payment for your services..."
Aerin's face fell into slight puzzlement. It sounded familiar, but he couldn't quite place where he would have said such a thing.
Bobby's face lit up with surprised recognition, "NO WAY! You're not the Tiger Lily!!..."
Orocia bursted into happy laughter.
Aerin's eyes nearly bulged out in shock. "WOW." He tried to not to smile, but gave up as he admired Orocia's more feminine look.
"Hee hee... Thanks guys, but let's get back to business. I was attacked by the crew Ol' Chuck was a member of just last night. They were trying to avenge their friend's death. I'm a wanted woman now. And I'm sure those crew members are spreading the word out to every sailor they see about the bounty on my head. Now, I know a LOT of seamen, and the majority are on my side but there's still enough men out there who want to prove they're better than me. I have no problem with anyone being better than me, gentlemen, but what these particular sailors want is fame. If they kill me they'll instantly become famous, or infamous I should say, for bringing down the 'legendary Tiger Lily.' And fame is enough for some of these men; they could care less about the bounty the crew will give them. As long as their name goes down as the man who killed the lady sailor..." Orocia's face was serious as stone.
"I see.." Aerin looked at Orocia with concern. He admired her now more for her strength in admitting her weakness. He had met many women in the service make fools of themselves trying to prove their abilities.
"Anyways, I was wondering if you two could direct me to someone who could look out for my friends at The Brass Monkey. I'm already provided for. Someone I know is taking me to Asheri tonight. And after you direct me to whomever, I'll be willing to pay you both back for your help for that night--"
Bobby interrupted, "But we were already paid by your boss, Miss JackLynn Tancrede..??"
Aerin's cheeks flushed pink, "I had asked something more of Miss Agua, Bob..."
Bobby gave his friend a scorning look, "Don't you dare, you lecherous cad--!!"
"HEY!! Robert, calm down, I honestly don't think Aerin meant anything like that!!!" Orocia interrupted in hopes of calming things back to normal.
"You don't know Aerin, Miss Agua.."
"ROBERT!" Aerin flashed a pair of angry eyes at his friend. The two stared at each other in angry annoyance for but a moment, when Orocia chimed in, "You two act like brothers..."
"Oh PLEASE don't say that, Miss Agua, I would hate to be in any way related to a nerd like Bob-o there.."
"Yeah, well the feeling's mutual, you lazy slob.."
"GUYS!" Orocia had plenty of patience, but these two were beginning to try it. "Gentlemen... could you please direct me to someone who can help?"
At this, Ensign Goodwinde got up from his chair. "Ma'am, I'm with the Medic Corps. But Lt. Jr. Grade Chevalier can help you. He is with the Military Police."
"Oh!" Orocia looked at Aerin with surprise. "But I thought he helped you that night when you two stitched me up?? How could he have helped if he wasn't a doctor??"
"Long story, but Aerin was actually part of the Medic Corps once, until--"
"I can answer for myself, Bobby, thanks." Aerin flashed another angry look at his friend. Robert took the cue to leave. "Well, Miss Agua, it was nice to see you again," and then Robert noticed the lack of a scar on Orocia's chest. "Wow! Your cut healed up rather nicely!!"
"I met a doctor who was dedicated, he fixed it up for me."
"Just like I said. Heh," Robert smiled down at Orocia, "well, I've got to report back to the clinic. See you later!"
"Bye, Bob-o," Aerin called back to his friend, "Still up for lunch, right?"
"Sure.."
"Alrighty then," Aerin focused his attention back to Orocia,"Now what is it you want me to do, Miss Agua?"
"I want you to protect the workers of The Brass Monkey from any malice the crew of the Razor Edge might bring upon them. And perhaps to try the Captain and all involved crew members for conspiracy to murder. I killed Ol' Chuck for self defense, because I knew he would've killed me," Orocia's eyes pleaded to Aerin as she spoke.
"Yes, but the fact that your boss had you tied up might raise some questions."
"She was just trying to rake in some money, it was just a show. Chuck just decided it was the perfect place to get revenge. He should've done it the right way by challenging me to a duel. Guess he thought he couldn't win," Orocia took on a more defensive air.
"Right... Well, I can put a restraining order on all involved crew members. But it'll only apply to Akaros. I can get you one for Gania, as well. But if you're going to Asheri... That's where things will get difficult. I can't help you there."
"But you can put some of these guys in jail, right?"
"We'll need to arrest them, and give them due process. That means court. And since you're the victim, you'll have to be present."
Orocia thought silently in her chair. She was leaving that night. "I can't... I'm leaving tonight."
"Well, I can still get a lawyer to represent The Brass Monkey, and get a restraining order for your friends. But if you're not there, there's not much I can do for you. You have to be here," Aerin spoke with a pleading tone.
"No... Thank you. All I want is for my friends to be protected. That's all."
"What about you? You're leaving yourself open to the whole crew!! And not to mention the bounty hunters!" Aerin's voice rose with anger, but it was anger more out of concern. He almost gave up, "So how are you going to handle these men?"
"My way."
That was enough for Aerin to give up. "Well, Miss Agua, if you decide to come back for protection yourself, I'm willing to help."
"Thank you, Aerin. I appreciate it. Now," and Orocia grinned as she rose from her seat,"what was that payment?"
Aerin grinned back,"Well... Would you be interested in joining the Akrainian Royal Navy?"
Orocia laughed, "Ha!! Bet that would look good on your records!! 'Recruited the famed 'Tiger Lily' into service.' Shouldn't you leave that up to the recruiters?"
Aerin smiled as he rose from his chair,"Yes. But it doesn't hurt to help." He extended his hand to her. "It's been a pleasure, Miss Orocia Agua."
"Same to you. Have a nice day!" Orocia shook his hand and left the headquarters. Alone now, Aerin thought to himself. Her last name... it sounds awfully familiar. He looked upwards to the picture of his graduating class of officers, looking at a certain friend of his. He tried to look for any physical similarities.
"Hmm. Well, it could just be a coincidence. I'll ask Rio about it later."
Posted by Orocia Agua on 10-28-2001 10:31 PM
Orocia walked back to The Brass Monkey a little after nine. She would have bustled along with the merchants, window shopping, but she was famished. She didn't eat breakfast. She walked in through the front entrance and went to the restaurant side of the tavern.
Roland, the chef, looked up and smiled at the pretty lady walking towards him, "How may I help you, Ma'am?"
"Some scrambled eggs on toast would be nice, thank you."
"It'll take just five minutes, miss!"
Orocia sat on the stool at the counter facing the kitchen. She spun around on the seat, idly, but soon her ears caught notice of some arguing coming from the rooms. It was JackLynn yelling at Alesshka:
"HOW could you let her OUT?!? HOW?!? She was just attacked LAST NIGHT for heaven's sake!! She could get KILLED out there!! Why couldn't you hold her back and wake Ferris up to escort her? WHY?!?"
"Jackie!! Please!! I was just waking up!! You know how I am in the mornings!! I'm sorry! I wasn't thinking!!" Al was nearly driven to tears. Orocia noticed Ferris nearby, obviously upset at Al as well, but not seeing any point to join in. JackLynn was obviously giving Alesshka more than enough tongue-lashing.
"You're DAMN RIGHT you weren't thinking!!!"
"Here ya go, Miss, hot out of the toaster and frying pan and into your stomach!" Roland tried to get Orocia's attention away from the arguing.
"Thanks, Roland. Try to keep it warm for me, will ya?" Orocia left her seat to straighten things out between Jackie and Al.
"-uh, sure," Roland was surprised the woman knew his name. "Must be a loyal customer."
Orocia walked up behind JackLynn, "I think that's enough, Jack."
JackLynn now had someone new to lash out at,"EXCUSE ME, Ma'am but this is none of YOUR business!!"
That was enough to unnerve Orocia. "This is ALL of my business, Jack."
"Just who the hell do you think you are?!?"
Just then Alesshka noticed--"OROCIA!! Oh, thank heaven you're HERE!!" She rushed out from between Jack's arms, practically pushed against the wall, and hugged Orocia.
Both Jack and Ferris had puzzled looks on their faces,"Orocia?"
"Yep, that's me! And please apologize to Al here!! And I think I deserve an apology as well. No one decides where I get to go and who I go with but me!"
JackLynn could only stand speechless. Ferris, on the otherhand, was fawning all over Orocia,"DAMN girl, you are lookin' mighty FINE today! whoo! Mmm, mmm, MMMM!!"
"Hee hee.. " Orocia's smile stretched from ear to ear. Roland watched the spectacle unfold with mouth wide open.
"I've got breakfast to eat guys!" Orocia rushed back to her meal, Roland staring at every bite. Orocia mischievously smiled back at him, and as she finished her meal, pulled out the money to pay for it.
"No no no no no!!" Roland stammered out,"This one's on me!" Roland laughed,"Why the dress today, Tiger?"
"Just felt like it. And thanks!" She smiled at Roland, but turned to JackLynn. "Hey, Jack. Don't mind if I take Al out today, do ya?"
"No.. go ahead.." All JackLynn could do was smile.
Orocia smiled at Al,"Get dressed out of those pj's Al!! We're goin' shopping!"
*********************************************
It was just after dusk when the two came back from their escapades. Orocia stopped before entering The Brass Monkey. Al waited for her at the back entrance.
"What's wrong?"
Orocia stared at the ocean, just a block away. "I ... need some solitude. I need to say goodbye. But let me go to my room first to get something."
Orocia came back out of her room with a wooden flute.
"I didn't know you could play any instruments.... Can I hear?"
"Actually, Al, I'm kinda shy about playing in front of people. It's more of a personal hobby of mine, to let me relax."
"Okay then. I'll be at the bar! Don't catch cold now!"
"Sure." Orocia walked toward the beach, playing a soulful tune with deep notes.
*********************************************
A half hour or so passed when Orocia finished playing her swan song to her first love, the ocean. Feeling ready to part, she got up from the sandy beach and bid the waves farewell. She stopped by her room upon entering The Brass Monkey, to drop her beloved flute off, before entering the bar area. She noticed Rublicant talking with Alesshka and smiled in puzzlement.
"What on Aeterna are those two talking about? Ha ha ha.." She looked out at them, leaning against the entrance to the rooms, half hidden in the shadows, and wondered who else Rublicant may have talked to, if he was there long. She decided to wait and see if Rublicant would notice her, if he would even recognize her...
"Hmm.. He seems a little happier tonight.."
Cue: Rublicant. I'll let you ask the questions.. ~_^
Posted by Aramus VanVehementi on 10-29-2001 11:27 PM
"Company halt!!"
The Nylian Army ground to a halt, resting in the lines of its formation. The troops were proud and determined with unwavering stares all facing forward in unison, however, their exhaustion could not be hidden. They had been marching for days with very little rest, yet with much anticipation they had arrived at their destination. The billowing clouds of dust that had been following the company for the duration of their trek now wafted past them in the warm afternoon breeze and kissed the walls of New Dargent with its filthy pucker. Just as Antridyus had briefed the soldiers days prior, they arrived to witness the almost forgotten banners of the Nylian Empire waving invitingly in the same gentle caress that carried the dust over their heads.
The great doors of the city's main gate swung open with much resistance due to their weight and size. From between the two wooden giants strode a lone figure. He walked tall in a highly regal fashion and had adorned the official crest of the Nylian Empire upon his crisp uniform. Captain Rivell had begun to show a significant amount of wear with an invisible weight keeping his shoulders from arching all the way back. He was slouching by no means yet he had been seen by many of the men in much higher spirits. Rivell snapped a trained salute to General Bjorn, who had been leading the march from Militus.
"Sir, as ordered I have sacked New Dargent. It now lies under the direct control of the Nylian Empire. I await your orders General."
"Excellent work Captain," Bjorn spoke affectionately. He was clearly impressed with the structural integrity of the fallen city. Very little collateral damage could be seen from his rest outside of the city walls... of course, he had yet to set foot upon the blood stained soil of its enclosed streets. "I shall write highly of you in my reports to General Antridyus. Of course, from now on I will be addressing you as Major Rivell. Congratulations my boy. By orders of Antridyus and our Emperor VanVehementi, you are to be promoted in recognition of your successful military actions."
"Thank you Sir! I only wish that with my new status and powers, I might better serve the Nylian Empire and our new Emperor." Such news had been enough to allow Rivell to stand once more at his full height with shoulders pulled back anew.
"And that my boy is why we chose you to lead this operation." Bjorn turned to face the army that rested at attention behind him. "Company dismissed! Camp is to be set up in 2 hours time. briefing to follow. Fall out!" Bjorn motioned for Rivell to accompany him within the city. The ambient noise of the military bustling to form camp had made conversation nearly impossible.
As the pair cleared the walls with the doors closing tightly behind them, Bjorn continued his talk with the newly appointed Major. "Tell me, what were the perils of this coupe?"
"I honestly can't say we've encountered any perils Sir. The city fell with relative ease. All of our planning made it nearly inconceivable otherwise. Those taken prisoner have been set free as of this morning, that is after they swore allegience to our Empire. Aid is currently being administered to the injured and burial with honors is being carried out for the dead. We wish to honor the fallen as they fought as warriors, defending their hearth. When the people see that we wish nothing more than for them to join us, the breach between them and our men will eventually close."
"Naturally... that is something that will take time. And during this time we must show them the comforts of what it is to be part of the Nylian Empire. If Emporer VanVehementi is to have his dutiful taxpayers, then we must win their support. We will require many funds and much labor to further the expansion of our territories."
"Its a shame so many had to die. I can't blame myself anymore though. My men gave them their ultimatem. They now celebrate or suffer the reward or concequence of their actions."
"Of course Major. Don't let me continue to talk them up. We both know they are mere pawns in our game. Fortunately, they are easily convinced of their powerlessness and in time will serve us unquestionably. To carry on, have you anything further to report?"
"Just a final note Sir, the Seekers are still sighted at night but with our men along the wall, the citizens have nothing to fear. Also, a contingent of our most able minded men has been assembled to begin magi training. Their tutelage is slated to begin this afternoon. Estimates report that they may be adequate terra magic users within a months time."
"I recieved a similar briefing from General Antridyus. You've done very well indeed Major. All I have to add is the fact that I would like these streets sanitized within the day. Rumor has it our Emperor will be taking up residence here until the council is abolished. Oh yes, and one more thing. What of the prisoners that have refused to serve us?"
"There is only one of them Sir. A good man, entirely too trusting, albeit a fine warrior by the name of Sarrofey. He was the commander of New Dargents forces. He remains in his cell."
"Ahhh, a proud soldier. I believe this is the man we had planned to make governor. Apparently he is not as suited for the lapdog lifestyle we had planned for him. Oh well, I should like to have conference with this warrior of yours tomorrow morning. He will serve us, I shall see to it."
"Of course General. Is that all Sir?"
"Yes Rivell, you are dismissed. Thank you once more for your service."
After exchanging salutes and parting company, Bjorn began to familiarize himself with his new surroundings. All about him were the disenfranchised citizens of New Dargent. All Bjorn could see were human cattle; fuel for the fire that was the Nylian Empire. Much had been accomplished yet much more remained to be completed.
The evening air had set in quickly and worked just as soon to cool the bodies of the now bunked soldiers. Rack after rack hosted the resting personages of travel worn Nylian soldiers. Their camp had been constructed on schedule, in proud tradition of their resurected empire, outside of the city walls. Soldiers from within the city took patrols around the grounds to allow the entirety of the new arrivals to recieve their sorely needed sleep. The Seekers had not yet been sighted this evening. Many believed the presence of the army was a great enough deterrant. Of course, one would be foolish to doubt the product of terra summoning.
As the evening faded into night with yet even more bite posessing the air, an uncanny stillness began to set in. The breezes which had been so prominent throughout the day now halted entirely. It was as though time itself was standing still. The atmosphere was stagnant as not even sound would carry far within it. All that could be made out was a rythmic and dulled pounding from the eastern horizon. It was a singular noise yet it seemed to come from every possible easternly approach. To make discenrment all the more difficult, a thick and clinging haze had assembled in the presence of the stifling conditions. Tension had begun to build among those on their patrolling rounds.
As if materializing out of nothingness, a darkly clad figure pierced the shroud of fog and galloped noisily towards the city walls. Upon drawing near the tightly sealed doors the rider halted his mount and waited without a sound directly outside the main gate. A watchman that had witnessed his ominous approach peared nervously over the wall and hailed unto him.
"Who goes there?"
"My name is of no importance. My master sends me bearing a message for your leader. I am to seek audience with a General Bjorn immediately." The riders voice was more of a hiss than a humanly sound. His tone was without emotion; hollow and devoid of personality. However, something within his words, something embedded deeply, beckoned to the watchman and he heeded its call. He quickly spun about as if in a trance and called to the gatesman.
"Open the doors and summon General Bjorn. A messenger brings important news"
With a nod, the guard lifted himself off of his stool and made his way to the gears which would budge the great doors from their resting position. After the massive doors had creaked open audibly, the rider dismounted and made his way into the city.
“Wait here…” The Nylian Guards turned to watch for any dangers that might be lurking outside of the gate.
“Of course.” Again, the hiss of the darkly clad rider seemed to emanate from the ground.
After some time General Bjorn had made his way to the main gate. He halted in his tracks after seeing the rider. “You wished to see me?”
“I am to give you this.” The rider held out a gloved, bony hand and from it, Bjorn received a wax sealed piece of parchment. This was no ordinary messenger. As soon as the message was relayed, the rider quickly mounted his horse and bolted out of the city to disappear moments later in the dense fog once more. Bjorn, a little disturbed by the encounter quickly gave orders.
“Gatesman, close the gates and send a contingent to find that man!!”
He immediately tore into the letter and read its contents.
Salutations General Bjorn,
My name is Linerin Gheral and I have noticed you’ve taken an interest in the expanse of your territory. I believe I might be able to supply my assistance in these matters for the betterment of both of our causes. If you are interested in such an ally, I will dispatch another rider to greet your gates at the stroke of midnight. If you would like my help in these matters, have a response ready for my rider to retrieve. Oh, and do be punctual… my rider will only wait for five minutes.
Best wishes and regards,
Linerin Gheral, an ally to the unification of Nyliam..
‘Interesting…’ General Bjorn sat contemplative for a moment. Emperor VanVehementi would be pleased to have unpaid assistance. ‘Mr. Gheral, I shall accept your invitation.’ Bjorn departed the dusty street and made his way to his quarters to pen his response.
CUE: Linerin. Welcome back to the living bro!
__________________
"Unlike my fool of a father, I don't just talk of ambition... I realize it!"
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 10-30-2001 12:10 AM
An Island, The Sea, The Stars, And a New Home...
Rublicant inhaled a small puff from his cigarette and exhaled, "So, when's Orocia due back?" He knew that she really didn't know, but that didn't matter much to him, he was just making pleasnat conversation, waiting for Orocia to arrive.
"I don't exactly know, she said she was going to find solitude, whatever she meant by that. She took a flute with her,"
It was then that Rublicant felt Orocia's psychic impression enter the bar, but he decided to let her approach him, so he continued, "You seem like a nice girl, not like a rowdy sailor," He laughed briefly and smoke swirled about him, "How did you come to know Orocia?"
"It was a while ago, and she just came in here often. She became our friend."
"Of course..."
Orocia was circling around the bar, behind Rublicant's back. She was not too far away for a scan of her thoughts, but Rublicant decided to play along and let himself be surprised. Rublicant took another puff from his cigarette, and the smoke thickened about him. Al excused herself to serve a few other customers. Rublicant turned about slowly, scanning over the whole room, but making a point not to note Orocia. And what was she wearing! She looked totally out of place, in Rublicant's opinion. Polka dots? He turned back to the bar and slammed several gold coins onto the bar.
"Drinks all around! The best ale in the house!"
Al and several other barmaids shot him a look that conveyed their sentiments of irratation. But they served up the ales, and when Al came to Rublicant with a glass, he simply pushed it away, and slipped a dralar coin into her hand. She didn't argue. Rublicant drew a silver flask of the alcohol enriched blood from his vest and took a draught from it. He felt the slight boost to his euphoria, and pocketed the flask once again.
He looked towards Al, smiled, and laughed, "This is all I ever drink,"
"And there's a litle on your lip, what is it? It looks like some sort of thick wine..."
"And that's what it is, the finest drink in the land,"
Orocia continued to watch Rublicant from the back, and Rublicant, from time to time, would make sure she was still there. It seemed that his paitence was getting the both of them nowhere. She was just as stubborn as he, and they needed to be going within the hour. He spun about in his seat and gazed directly at her. She was first surprised, and then her expression changed to a flirtatious smile, like the previous night in the bar, and she wiggled her finger at him. He got up out of his seat and approached her.
"Miss Aqua, how do you do?" Rublicant smiled made a polite bow, in the Lunari fashion. Several people looked on, and then looked away after a bit, loosing their interest quickly.
"I'm okay," she replied with a grin, but she looked somewhat sad, as if she was trying to hide it, but didn't really want to,"Are we ready to go?"
"Yes. Go and make your goodbyes, I'll meet you down on the beach, don't take more than an hour.."
"Alright, I won't"
Rublicant turned from her abruptly, but then turned back softly, "Don't get into any trouble, Tiger," He kissed his cold fingers lightly and touched them lightly to her lips. She reddened in the face, but did not make any other action, "I'll be waiting,"
Rublicant left the bar and walked to the beach, then he lifted himself into the misty air, and lit another cigaratte. He reflected on Orocia's beauty, and why he had been compelled to help her in the first place. Then he tried to come up with a real reason as to why he was going to help her. The answer he came to frightened him.
He rifled through all of the credit papers and the deeds of sale that his agent had set up in the past day. Everything seemed in order. He refolded them and put them back into his vest. He reached out with his thoughts, and just as he did, he sensed Orocia walking onto the beach, nearly sixty feet away and nearly twenty feet below. He slowly lowered himself down to her, and extended his hands out to her. She took them lightly, and he spoke.
"The flight will be long and quite disorienting. Would you like me to put you to sleep for the duration of the trip?" Rublicant only had her best intentions in mind.
"No, that's quite alright, I want to see it." She meant the ocean, but Rublicant took it as meanig she wanted to see the flight.
Rublicant laughed, "That's fine, but if you feel sick, let me know, It's going to be a long, fast flight,"
He wrapped his arms about her in a firm embrace, and the embrace was returned by Orocia. He then lifted her into his arms. She was a light burden with his vampire strength, and he was cautious not to squeeze her too tightly. He lifted them into the air, and began to speed to the south.
Hours passed. Within minutes they were free of the mist of the isle of Noit, and all that was about them was the sea and the stars. The wind tore at their faces, but Rublicant was oblivious to the pain. Orocia, on the other hand, shielded her face from the rushing torrent of wind from their speed, and reflected upon the stars and the ocean waves. For several hours no words were spoken between the two. There was a clam peaceful quiet that seemed to come with the rushing wind and the open sea. Rublicant kept them on course using the north star the best he could, and then would have to plot direction onced they reached Asheri. In the worst case scenario, They could take ladging in Balanum or another northern city. Rublicant didn't want to think about what would happen if the sun rose while they were over the open sea.
"Rublicant?" Orocia interrupted the silence that had engulfed the Vampire.
"Yes,"
"Why are you helping me?"
"I, I don't know..."
The silence fell once again, and the pair sped towards the landmass of Asheri.
After nearly three more hours, they came upon Asheri. They had been at sea for seven hours, and there could not be more than five more hours in the evening. Rublicant quickly identified the range of mountains that they had encountered as the Balanum Shield Range, and set off at a slightly more easterly direction. Within minutes, Lake Asheri was balzing by on their right side at a frightening pace. Rublicant only stopped the journey once, and only fro a brief moment, to look upon the massive monolith that was the Black Tower.
"What is that?"
"It's the Black Tower, it sprang up during the Great war. Nobody's ever been there and come back alive. The legends say it's filled with shadowspawn and sevron,"
"What about the ships on the lake?"
"If they stay far enough away from it, they get left alone. It's general procedure that near the middle of the lake (north-south wise) to stay as close to the shore as possible. You can't see it now, but the water that surrounds the island is red. If you stay out of the red, you'll be fine,"
And the pair fell silent once again.
They rushed to the end of the lakeand followed the river to Dargent. It was strange, Rublicant swore he saw nylian flags flying in the city. he passed it off as his tiredness. Rublicant smirked as he saw the statue of his Grandfather fly past below him. He softly wispered a prayer. Within minutes of passing Dargent, The Al'Teyr Manor came into sight, and Rublicant slowed to display the massive victorian style estate and its gardens to Orocia. After a short pass back and forth, Rublicant set Orocia down on his own bedroom's balcony.
"You can sleep here, this is my bedroom. I'll notify the servants that we're here and I'll order them to take care of you in the best possible ways. I'll have excellent clothes layed out for you and, of course, only the best food and drink,"
Orocia blushed slightly, and brushed her wind blown hair from her face, "Thank you, Rublicant, thank you... for everything,"
Rublicant smiled at her as a gentleman smiles to a lady. He kissed her on the forehead and embraced her lightly, and then pushed himself away, he looked a bit angry, at himself, "I must go now, and feed. I have been drained by the travel.," A smile returned to his face, as he stepped away, " I'll find you here tomorrow evening. You're safe now, Tiger Lily. I promise..."
Cue: Orocia
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Keiru Silver on 10-31-2001 07:48 PM
OOC: In case it isn't totally obvious, I'm posting as Indigo...
Indigo retired to his room alone for the third night in a row. He had a few leads, but nothing good to go on. Scarlet, unfortunately, could be anywhere in the world by now. To Xarou's credit, it had been well planned and executed, but ceding anything to Xarou made Indigo furious.
Salamander sat untouched on the nightstand. Indigo had no desire to tinker with it presently, and found that several things that he once enjoyed now provided only slight annoyances without Scarlet's familiar presense. They had never formally married, but Indigo felt a certain bond with her that transcended the bonds of marriage by law. He sat on the bed and stared into the mirror that sat just above the washbasin.
Lit only the flickering light of the candle, his face looked aged. He had not slept much the last few nights, and what sleep he had received had been fitful and unrefreshing. Dark circles were forming underneath his eyes, and his hair was in need of washing. His clothes spoke volumes about the places he'd been. Several stains patterned the jacket, blood and alcohol chief among them. He'd tried every brothel in town, not hoping to find Scarlet, but hoping to find Xarou making a trade. He always came up empty handed.
The days seemed long and drawn out, and Indigo was painfully aware of every step he took, plodding about from tavern to brothel, and back into the taverns, hoping; indeed, praying, that upon hearing Scarlet or Xarou's description, someone would do more than shake their head pitifully.
Tonight would be his last night at the inn. His money had run out, exhausted by his futile search. He would try to soak away the dirt and grime in the bath, but the lingering exhaustion had become a part of his being. It would be his last bath for a while.
He filled the tub and got it, watching the dirt on his hands and arms spread out in the water.
Again, fitful sleep. Dreams of Scarlet, awash with fury at his own helplessness.
"Indigo..."
The name rang out, familiarly spoken, but by a foreign voice. It was unmistakeably female, but it was not a voice he recognized.
"I can help you..."
Indigo awoke, or rather, sat up, for it had not been much of a sleep. There was a woman standing in the middle of the room. She had very dark hair, and her eyes were a piercing green. She was small of stature, but very fit.
"Who are you? How did you get in here?" Indigo demanded.
"My name is Kaliva. I need to find someone you know. Someone named Scarlet."
"What do you know about Scarlet?"
"I know that you have been searching for her as well, and you are at the end of your wits. I have powers that can make locating her easier, if you wish to cooperate."
"And? What do you need of me? Why do you wish to find her?"
Kaliva decided to play a card that she had much practice with: Manipulation. "She is in danger, that much is obvious. It is not her fate to perish soon. Her destiny lies with you alone. Someone has tampered with fate, and I have been sent to right the wrong." It was an outright lie, but Kaliva was not concerned with justifying her morality to this man who could never conceive her true ambitions.
Indigo, who was still sitting in bed, nodded slightly. A subtle suggestion had been made, and he was inclined by either desperation or the beginnings of madness to accept the unwritten contract. Kaliva, taking this as an invitation, climbed into bed with Indigo.
He quickly jumped out of the bed, leaving Kaliva laying seductively under the rumpled covers. "I think I'll sleep on the floor."
Kaliva, feigning ignorance of his obvious embarassment, smiled inwardly. She would have many chances along the way to inflict pain and suffering on this young man. He would endure it, and by the end of his journey, he would love her for it. She licked her lips. Yes, he would love her forever for bringing him into a world of misery.
__________________
Welcome to my world...
Posted by Volsung on 11-01-2001 11:26 AM
A day in Gania
OOC: If you don’t like the castle I can make some changes and I did my best to be king for a day he he he enjoy
IC: The Company moved quickly though the city. Few if any stayed in the political district over night. There were a few offices still lit. But, most of the people they meet were guards on patrol. These guards quickly waved the company on after a quick word from John who had been named the Acting Captain of the Royal Guard, but there was no exemption to what happen to the former Captain of the Guard. This was all far from Volsung mind as they rode down the street he spent most of the time thinking about what the king would say. Would he be thankful would he even care? “Well we are going to see very soon no aren’t we.” Volsung thought to himself.
Then out of the darkness, they came to grand structure. It was the castle of the King and Queen of Gania. The outside was a rectangle lined two rows of white granite Greek pillars with a with a round pale blue roof with a beveled edge for the water to run down, at each corner there was a huge gold tower with a lights burning in each to illuminated the city. Inside there was a huge castle of white Granite most of it couldn’t be seen over the walls but there were four white towers with gold inlay that could be seen from any where in the city. Each of which had a five large bells of different sizes, which were only sounded after the death of a King or Queen, or after the born of their children.
As they came to the base of the pillar Volsung noticed that the base itself was ten feet height. “The main entrance is on the east side we can ride in there, follow me.” Said John as they reached the base, the group quickly turned east to ride in. At the main entrance, John took the lead and the guards moved aside as he rode though the entrance which was well lit with torches and Volsung could see all the guards faces very clearly. When they got past the entrance, the group dismounted and horses were lead away by one of the servants. “We walk from here,” the group knotted and went on. Volsung was quite taken back by the whole place even the dedication temple on Greyon was no match for this castle. John keep leading them until they came to the main castle “I will have to take all of you weapons now, I know that you can still cause a lot of trouble but please don’t.” said John almost in whining tone.
“We can do that” Said Veritas, as she pulled out two dagger as did Leada, Volsung had came unarmed as he had planed, which draw a few odd looks from John.
Then John lead the group in the castle and each of them in there own rooms saying “I will have your breakfast brought to you, and then you will be called when the king ready for you. Do not leave your rooms for any reason. Have a good night.” After Volsung was in his room, he lay down and went strait to sleep.
**************************************************
The next Morning came and there was a knock on Volsung Door: “I have your breakfast Sir,” said a young voice.
“Come in I have been waiting for you.” With that, the young man walked in and laid the food on the table. “Tell me something, do you know when we are going to be meeting with the king?”
“Am sorry but I don’t know what your talking about. I was just told to bring you breakfast.”
“Well thank you,” with that the boy left the room leaving Volsung to his breakfast.
****(Hours later)*******************************************
It was almost noon when there was second knock on the door, but Volsung thought that it was only lunch and didn’t get up. “Come in.”
“Come in! What on earth are you talking about it time to go.” It was John with Veritas and Leada. “We are on our way to the king now do you plan on coming with us or not because if not its all the same to me.”
“NO, no I’m with you I just thought that it was going to take a little longer,” Said Volsung still surprised about the speed of the king.
“Well are here to give him his island later all,” said Leada.
With that, Volsung joined the group and they proceed to the thrown room. After a long walk, they reached the outer doors to the thrown. “From here on out you do as you are told and nothing else. Understand?” Said John strait to Volsung and Veritas, they both knotted and the door was opened and the came into the heart of Gania, and they walked before the thrown.
“Well are these the ones who liberated Greyon from the black Wolves?” Said the King as he stood up out of this chair and walked to where the group was standing to get a better look at the group.
“Yes they are my lord.” Said Leada stepping forward because had already meet with the king “This man is named Volsung He used his mind and Fire Magic to drive a way the darkness of the Wolves, and this Lady standing beside him is this sister Veritas who used Her Air magic save us all when no one else could stand.”
“That is very impressive…” the king cut himself off and walked around to the back of the thrown where everyone could see that something was distracting him. Then the Queen stepped forward.
“I sorry about him we are going though a very tough times right now, but I still think that you have earned a reward. Leada for your loyal service over all of these years when you could have simple spend your time getting off the island. For this I name you High priestess of the temple of Greyon.”
“Thank you but I don’t deserve it.” Said Leada
“Nonsense you have worked as harder than anyone for the freedom of Greyon. Now what do you want?” Turning from Leada to Volsung and Veritas, “Don’t be sly its not everyday that you get to ask the queen of Gania for what ever your heart desires.”
“Well if the queen is asking me to ask for something well I guess who am I to argue. Maim when you put it that way, I think that I would like it very much if I did not have to be a member of one of the guilds,” Said Volsung trying to be as polite as possible.
“Well that is a simple thing to do.” Said the King now coming back the front of the room “I can not let you go now with you two joining one of the guilds, but as you and your sister, I am of course assuming that your sister as independent as yourself. But, I regress, if you were both members of the royal guard, you could go on with your business as you wished, but remember that if there is a need I will not hastate to recall you back to my service. Do you understand this?”
“Yes I do,” Said Volsung. “And I would be happy to be in your service.”
“That’s good and Veritas do you understand this?” asked the King
“Yes I do, but being free of the guilds is not first on my wish list. I would like my own ship with a crew to call my own fill with a cargo meant for Ioty.”
The King had no words he just stood there chucking to himself. “By goodness you should know how to surprise an old man. But the fact is that we have a ship in dock north of Gania that almost fits the bill perfectly. It was built in corner about two years ago and has been it The North port since in it got there, because no one would sail it from Gania to Ioty. It only needs two things a crew and a cargo, but I shall send a mass of weapons from Xellos that are meant for the king of Akaros. All you have to do is get them to Ioty and the king’s men will do the rest. And as a royal ship, you will have priority in any port that you go too. Its name is the Secunda Falia.”
“Thank you Lord. It sound like everything I could hope for and more,” Said Veritas.
“I sure that it will be. Well if that is all, my wife and I have other matter to take care of Leada will you please stay? John will you show these two to where ever they what to go.” With that the King, Queen, and Leada went into a side chamber.
“So where do you wish to go?” Asked John as they walked from the thrown room and in to the main corridor.
“Well if it ok with you I would like to be heading back north to check out my ship this ‘Secunda Falia’ I sure it It’s the finest ship on the sea from the way the king talked about it,” Said Veritas.
“Yes I to would like to get heading that way too my exploring of the world as been put on hold long enough,” said Volsung.
“If that is what you what then I will show you the way out. Follow me.” And so, the day rest of the day pasted quickly. Volsung and Veritas left the castle see the great many things that lay before them. But before leaving town, Volsung stopped by the market to see is anyone remembered him.
However, the name of Volsung looked as if it had disappeared from the tongues of People he saved when he came across Glaucus. “Volsung I thought that you were in Akaros?”
“Well that is where we planed on ending up, but are shipped wreaked and we are just getting back now,” Volsung not really wish to give away what they really had been up to for the past mouth.
“I never did like those ship I always preferred to stay on the ground. In any case, it is good to see you both well, and I can tell you that travel between Gania and Forestre has been very claim since you took care of all those wolves.”
“I’m glad to hear it. Well I think that we must be going we have anther ship to catch. Take care of yourself Glaucus and take care of your men.”
“I will do that and you be careful yourself on that water, its very bad stuff.”
“Thanks I with remember that.” With that, Volsung and Veritas fell their friend and started traveling north to the Gania port. They were only able to walk for about an hour before the sunset and the brother and sister dual made camp for the night. And they fell asleep dreaming of their day and of their trip to Ioty.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-01-2001 06:18 PM
Xarou paced the floor in his own chambers deep in thought. Ten days had passed since he had brought Scarlet to his home and yet she still rejected every attempt he made to woo her. He tried everything he could think of to earn her affections. Flowers! Sweet words! Jewelry and other finery! All to no avail. He walked briskly to a small cabinet, reached for the handle, then almost immediately retreated. No! That was the last resort!
But isn’t this already a last resort?, he thought in response. He walked back toward the cabinet and pulled on the handle. The door opened silently without the slightest hesitation. Inside on a tiny velvet cushion was a miniscule purple vile that contained a dark liquid. It twinkled ominously in the afternoon sun and seemed to sap the light from the air. Xarou inhaled deeply and released his breath in a slow, steady stream. Was he really going to stoop to this? He thought of Scarlet locked away in her room. During her time there, she hadn’t eaten anything and was obviously suffering from sleepless nights. All the times he had listened to her from outside the door, she would call out for Indigo, awaken, then cry herself to sleep once more only to repeat the process. This steeled his resolve. So long as the boy was in her thoughts, there was nothing on earth Xarou could do to make Scarlet his. Unless of course, he took her forcefully, which would be an easy matter with the use of the Puppet Bands. But he didn’t want her that way. He wanted her with her consent.
He reached for the vile and held it in the palm of his hand. This was the only way. Not only was it necessary so Xarou could satisfy his desires, but for Scarlet’s sake as well. If she continued like this much longer, she would cease to live. Already she spent most of her time in a silent trance, just staring out the window. Sometimes it would take Xarou several minutes of calling her name for her to snap out of it.
With this reasoning in his mind, he pocketed the vile and exited his chambers. He swore that if he couldn’t win her heart today, he would use its contents. And he would have no regrets in doing so.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 11-01-2001 09:41 PM
Linerin waited paitently at the gates of the Black Tower for his messenger to return. The dark horses were fast, but not as fast as he would have liked them to be.
He waited nearly an hour, and the sun was beginning to rise. He was tired. The messenger rode up and gave him the reply General Bjorn had written himself.
"If you want my help, you shall have it... You shall have it..." Linerin laughed out loud, as he often does, and everyone within the tower grimaced.
OOC: I'll be there in a few days, Aramus...
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 11-01-2001 10:49 PM
OOC: By my estimation, enough time has passed for Caliph's journey. If I'm wrong, correct me.
IC: Caliph was worn, tired, his flesh red and swollen as he sat beneath the shade of a tree, sipping carefully from his flask. At least he was in the vicinity now. He'd have to spend some time scouting the lay of the land, figuring out what to do, who he might call an ally.
But for now, he would rest a spell.
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Volsung on 11-01-2001 11:34 PM
Volsung and Veritas traveled quickly to the north both having places to go. About noon they were about ready to spite up and go their separated ways “Volsung I’m going to check out my ship are you still planning on getting your sword?”
“Yes In fact I was just about to head that way. So, I will go back to that tree where bearaid the sword and I meet up with you at he port. I mean how hard can it be to find a royal ship in port that gets almost no use.”
“My thinking exactly. So I will talk to you when I see you ok?” Veritas said as she started walking off.
Volsung started walking back to the tree which he had burned the sword he know exactly where the sword was in fact Volsung could feel the sword leading back him back to the location where in rested. Volsung made good time across the grass running most of he was then about four in the afternoon Volsung had come to the tree where the sword was bearaid. Volsung picked up the piece of grass that coved the hole and dug out the sword with his hands. “Its good to see you again.” Then Volsung polished his sword until it shined once more. After taking sometime to rest, Volsung put the sword in hand and tried use its power again. This time he was able to control it a little better but after he was done, he had to rest for a good hour before he felt like he could travel. “Well I guess I’m still not very good at controlling this thing in any case I better get back to port of Veritas is going to worry about me, and with that Volsung headed to the North Port of Gania.
OOC: Sorry about how short this is but I’m still a little drained from my last post.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Saeth Shen on 11-02-2001 02:20 AM
Saeth sat upon a great rock within one of the thousands of glades within the Evisis. The trees towered over him and concealed him with their girth. He, as one of the Esiai'desh'mirain, had spent years of his life already training in stealth. His Asha cloak aided him in these matters, but even without it, he was a formidible elf to find if he wanted to stay hidden.
He sat and thought. His mother was on his mind, and tears came to his eyes as he thought of her. As the trails of tears streaked down his cheeks, he fingered Fylorn'El'Desh'mieve.
He knelt in the grove for the rest of the day, and as the sun set, he rose. He said goodbye once again to his mother, and he left back towards Hethilin, leaving his sorrows behind him for another time.
__________________
By the honor of my Father, the love of my Mother, and the pride of the Esiai'desh'mirain, you shall not harm my charge...
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-02-2001 05:05 PM
The windows were the only comfort Scarlet received during the days of her confinement. They served as a reminder that there was a world outside of her lavish prison and wandering out there somewhere, was Indigo. It was the mere hope that he could possibly be nearby that kept her mind from teetering over the edge into insanity.
She heard the familiar rattling of the door handles that signaled Xarou’s presence. It no longer caused her alarm to see him enter her chambers carrying various gifts and spouting endless lines of devotion. It simply didn’t matter anymore. All that mattered was the window, and the preview of the world outside that it had to offer.
The window…….
Xarou knelt beside Scarlet and looked up into her face. Even though she was noticeably emaciated and dark rings hung below her eyes, she was still beautiful to him.
“Scarlet….” Once more he began his declaration of love for her, but his voice came from a million miles away. An idea was forming in Scarlet’s weary mind. The window….It was the only way….
“Indigo…” Xarou stopped.
“What?”
Without warning Scarlet leapt from her position in the chair and using the last of her energy, sprinted over to the window where she flung herself against the glass. A large web of cracks appeared upon impact and spread swiftly across the shuddering pane. It had happened so quickly that it wasn’t until she was about to run toward the window again that Xarou used the Puppet Bands to disable her attempts. Her arms were suspended in midair, anchoring her to her position on the floor. She arched her back against its power and started to scream. It was a scream of a soul that knows of its futility and yet is still desperate to escape. She screamed and fought against the bands until the cords stood out from her neck and the veins in her arms rose above her skin. The bands started to pulsate, filling the room with a brilliant white light. Sparks jumped from the bands and onto her skin where they left tiny red marks. She hardly felt these due to the searing pain radiating from her arms. It bit into her mind and burrowed deep inside, driving her insane. But still she resisted against them. Nothing on this earth would keep her from Indigo any longer. She screamed again, this time in brute determination.
“AAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
Xarou stepped forward to halt her but stopped in shock. Scarlet’s will power alone was allowing her to overcome the power of the bands. Her arms inched forward slowly as she tried to make her way back toward the window. But her progress was painfully slow and he could tell she was losing strength. Her body began to shudder violently and as suddenly as she had started she stopped and fell to the floor in exhaustion. The light from the bands disappeared and daylight filled the room once more. Xarou squinted as his eyes adjusted themselves to the sudden change in the light. He spied Scarlet’s motionless body and rushed to her side. Cradling her gently in his arms he checked for a pulse and rejoiced as he found it, but it was very weak. Her chest rose and fell slowly and her breath came in ragged gasps. Solemnly, he picked her up and laid her on top of the bed, then stood back and studied her from his vantagepoint. He could have her now if he wanted. Fighting his desires he turned and reached for the vile deep in his pocket. Now was the time to use it. If he didn’t he was sure that she would kill herself the next time she tried to escape.
On top of the wardrobe were several decorative ornaments given to Scarlet over the past week. Among these was a small silver incense burner. Xarou grabbed it and brought it to the nightstand near Scarlet’s bed. Opening the vile, he poured several drops of a deep blue liquid onto the incense cones and lit the fragrant concoction. He moved out of the room swiftly, taking care to not inhale any of the fumes that began to waft over the unconscious woman. In a few hours he would return to finish what he had started.
There was no going back now.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-02-2001 06:21 PM
It was in fact nightfall when Xarou returned to her bedside. By now the Lethesbane had done its work and Scarlet was rendered vulnerable. He sat on the edge of the bed and grasped her hand.
“Scarlet?”
She stirred, but did not wake. From that point he whispered in her ear everything she needed to know. It didn’t take very long. After he was finished he allowed himself to give her a light kiss. The next morning would dawn a new life for the both of them. He held her hand for a moment longer then returned to his own chamber, anticipating the following day with a sense of excitement.
There was nothing on earth that could reverse the effects of the Lethesbane now that it had been introduced into Scarlet’s system. Under its influence her memories had been altered forever. Xarou smiled. He almost hoped that the boy would try to find her now. It no longer mattered if he did or not.
Scarlet was his.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Kawaii Moon on 11-03-2001 03:14 PM
The first night of her arrival, Kawaii could not help but feel lonely for the loss of Grandioff when they went throught the drolstorm of Gran Adageros. She sat there on the bed in the room given to her by a kind couple. Sighing, she stood up and walked over to the window overlooking the coastline. She didn't know which island she was on, but she was most likely the furthest one north but she was not sure. She watched the ships come in and out of port and felt a tear make its way down her cheek. She could not bear to think what could've happened to Grandioff, but she kept hoping and wishing that he was alive and well. She leaned on the sill and rested her head in her hands as she listened to the waves lap against the shore.
Suddenly, she heard fishermen yelling and waving their arms in the air, like they were meeting a ship in the harbor, but there was no ship. She stood up and walked outside, as did many others. A person was being dragged ashore... could it be? could it be Grandioff?
...
__________________
°Kawaii Moøn°
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-03-2001 06:24 PM
It was dark and she was alone. Cold air bit her skin, sending goosebumps blazing across her flesh.
“Scarlet!”
She turned and saw Indigo standing behind her less than five feet away. Overcome with joy, she ran to him. But something wasn’t right….The faster she ran, the farther away he seemed. Soon she was sprinting but he just kept growing more distant. He called her name over and over until it became a mocking chant. A thick fog suddenly swept between them, isolating Scarlet forever from Indigo.
“INDYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!”
___________________________
Scarlet’s head throbbed dully as she sat up in bed. Her entire body ached in unison. What had happened?…She remembered being on a ship, (why was I on a ship?) and there had been a storm, but everything after that was a blur. There was something else…someone…
“Xarou!” She leapt from the bed and ran toward the double doors located on the far side of the room. They opened easily for her and she stumbled out into a massive corridor that was seemingly endless. Tall windows were spaced along its sides every ten feet and a rich purple carpet lined the passage. Feeling helpless and a bit intimidated she started to her left, when a voice came from the opposite end of the hall, making her stop in her tracks and wheel around to face its owner.
“Scarlet?” Xarou stood there looking both puzzled and amused at the sight of her.
“Xarou!” As she ran into his arms all the energy in her body suddenly abandoned her and she swayed against him.
“Are you all right?” Scarlet smiled up at him.
“I’m fine. I guess I’m still a little weak from the shipwreck.” She pressed close to him, appreciating his warmth. He encircled his arms around her waist, spilling his cape around her body. She leaned her head against his chest.
“What do you remember?” She furrowed her brow and struggled to recall the shifty images of her previous life.
“I remember the storm. And I remember you pulling me out of the water, but that’s all. Everything before that….” Her voice trailed off. Xarou held her tighter.
“If I could help you remember your past I would give anything to do so.” Scarlet blushed. True she had only just met him, but she couldn’t help but feel romantically inclined for the man who had not only saved her life, but cared for her afterwards as well. How long had it been? Just short of two weeks if she recalled correctly.
She was remotely aware of her pounding heart. Something was wrong. She didn’t know what it was, but suddenly she didn’t want to be in Xarou’s arms anymore. He sensed her change in mood and released her.
“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be so forward.” He turned slightly. “I’ll leave you to dress then I’ll bring you something to eat.” Scarlet nodded and flashed him a radiant smile before returning to her room.
Inside, she reflected on what had just happened. Her head began to pound again, and she was aware of the sensation of something trying to surface within her mind. The mist was thinning! Who’s calling to me?… But then everything clouded over once more and she was more confused than ever. Shakily, she walked over to the bed and looked down at the dress lying there. It was deep blue in color-
(just like his eyes…)
She jumped and spun around. Whose eyes? Her hands began to tremble. Where had that voice come from? She closed her eyes and struggled to remember anything before the storm. Whatever had tried to surface before evidently had no intention on doing so again and it wasn’t until Xarou had returned with a breakfast tray that she decided to let the matter go.
But even then images of deep blue eyes danced through her subconscious as a guiding beacon to her sleeping heart.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Grandioff on 11-03-2001 07:26 PM
He looked around at the sailors raising their hands and yelling something that he could not understand. Several came over to him and helped him up and supported him. He looked around the village behind the fishermen and saw women walk outside their small homes but saw not Kawaii. Maybe he was wasting his time...maybe she wasn't here. His head drooped until he heard a familiar voice talking amongst the gathering crowd, he could tell that these people have not seen other humans for quite some time. He lifted his weary head and saw Kawaii's face, his vision blurred by weariness and he smiled weakly. Suddenly, he collasped on the ground and he heard women screaming and then everything went black.
When he woke up, he heard female voices wispering and felt a damp cloth being placed on his forehead, but he heard not Kawaii's voice and he was saddened. He opened his eyes and looked around at the blurred faces surrounding him. He blinked the mistyness from his eyes and his eyes focused.
"Kawaii...Kawaii..." he babbled
"oh dear. The man is ill." stated one of the women
"what should we do Kaniva? He is asking for Kawaii...should we bring her forward?"
Hearing that the women knew of Kawaii lifted his disheartened spirit
"oh sure, what hurt could it do?"
He heard footsteps leaving the facility and heard them come back in.
"Kawaii? Kawaii are you ok? you look pale."
"oh...no i'm fine...just thought that this man was...dead."
He opened his eyes and alighted on her lovely face.
Posted by Orocia Agua on 11-03-2001 10:36 PM
Ghosts of Undead Memories
She watched him disappear into the night, as she sat at the foot of the huge bed. She looked at her surroundings. She wanted to say to herself that she felt out of place, that she needed something to do immediately, a sense of work to put herself to, but she couldn't escape the whispers of her memories. No, she felt right at home, because she was spoiled to her heart's content before she took her last victim and gave birth to her new life as a sailor. And that last victim was her past self. But she didn't give it a proper burial, so now, she had her own ghost of the past to contend with, haunting her thoughts now more than ever. She looked at her surroundings: Rublicant's richly fashioned room only helped her ghost to revive her fellow demons from the death Orocia thought she had given those awful memories.
She clenched the bedsheets with white-knuckled fists, trembling.
Trembling because a man's hand was slowly moving up her thigh...
He sat beside her, on her left, with his arm around her, as his left hand slowly, teasingly went up her thigh and under her skirt. She didn't know how to feel, exactly. She was terrified because she didn't know what he meant to do to her, with his hand where it was now, yet she didn't know how to feel really because he seemed to hold her gently, and it felt.. well, she never felt this feeling before. It felt, ..good. It was pleasure, the way he touched her. But it was brand new to her, and she didn't know what to do with it, so she was terrified. She barely knew the man doing this to her.
She was only nine years old.
He was a rich man, dressed in splendor, having come back from another wild party in the always festive nights of Corner. He whispered in her ear, gently, "Don't be afraid..... You'll love this when you're older." And he continued to touch her, smiling at every confused expression that appeared on Orocia's face. And then he began to unbutton her dress. Orocia looked up at him, not knowing what to do, her big eyes confronting the end of innocence. She sat still in terror, not moving at all. He laid her down gently across the bed and was over her, looking down into her terrified eyes.
"You can earn money doing this, Orocia. It's the oldest profession in the world..." and he continued doing what he pleased with her. He spoke softly, in the same gentle manner that he touched her,"You don't have a family, just a brother. And he's just a boy, he can't help you anymore than you can help yourself. It's just you two out in that harsh world. How are you going to survive? You need money. This is the best way to get it. It's so easy to do, Orocia. I can give you that money. Just do what you're letting me do to you right now..." he kissed her neck, kissing down to her immature breasts.
"Oh," she spoke in a trembling whisper," ...okay," and she felt something else go up between her thighs. She only wanted to be able to help herself and her brother, and the price was innocence. She would never see her childhood again. All that lay before her now was a relationship with a world which she would use for her needs, and in turn use her for its needs. What were you if you couldn't be used? You were worthless, just something that ought to be killed, you had no value. This would be the purpose of her life from now on...
Orocia woke up, and she looked at her surroundings. She wasn't in that warmly candlelit room anymore. All she saw was the dark room she was in the night before, with the sun's good rays of light desperately trying to reach her, but always reaching short at the foot of the bed. But if felt so real to her. She had relived a memory she thought she had viciously killed.
She suddenly felt empty, after feeling that rush of realization that what you were just feeling wasn't real, but a dream. Her heart sank. She couldn't shake the sad feeling that hung over her now. But she got up regardless, and hoped she'd forget it all with the passing of the day.
Posted by Volsung on 11-04-2001 06:07 PM
almost time to set sail
Volsung made it to the docks just before nightfall. When Volsung came to the ship, he found Veritas and Leada talking “I just don’t think king looks all that much like…WELL its good to see you finally got here.” Veritas said as she turning around to look at Volsung.
“Sorry but I didn’t really feel like hurrying back I mean its not like you would leave without your little brother.”
“Your lucky that’s all, and I would have left without you and you know it its only because I ran into Leada that the ship has not left yet. Speaking of which I really need to get back to my ship so that its ready to sail. Volsung we are leaving at first light if you’re not on bound by then we are going without you!”
“Ok I understand. You don’t have to go crazy on me, I will be on the ship before you leave,” with that Veritas walked back to the ship Leaving Volsung with Leada. “ She just pretending to be tough the fact is she loves me she just don’t like to show it. In any case what are you doing here?” Asked Volsung to Leada
“Well I’m heading back to Greyon with a battalion of the Royal Guard well there not all royal guard most a worker and old solder but they are now member of the Royal Guard thanks to the king. There job will be to sweep the island to make sure that we got rid of all the wolves, and after that they will stay and guard the island from anyone that is not supposed to be there.”
“I see,” said Volsung as he looked across the water. “So what will you be doing with your new position?”
“Well the first thing I have to do after it is confirmed that all the wolves are gone, is to build a small port on the north end of the island for the Royal Family to sail too. After that, the Royal Guard under my diction will start repairing and restoring the North, South, East, and West Temples. After all that is finished I will over see the day to day operations of the Temples and I will have direct authority over the royal guard that will protect the island, just like the chief priest did in the old days.”
“Wow that sounds like it will keep you busy for a long time,” said Volsung now turning back to look at Leada.
“Yes I think that it will. Well I wish you the best of luck on all of your travels please stop by if you ever find yourself in this part of the world again.”
“Don’t worry I pretty sure I that I can handle that.” With that the two friends hugged and when to there respective ships. As soon as Leada was on board her, the ship pulled up its anchor and set sail in the light of the full moon. Volsung watched them until they were out of site and then below desk and when to sleep for the night.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Saeth Shen on 11-04-2001 06:52 PM
The light filtered through the boughs of Evisis as it does every evening, making the beams of sunlight almost tangible in the eyes of a lone wanderer. Saeth looked out through the forest, having just chased off a pair of wandering wolves, perhaps akin to the Fiero, that had wandered too far into the bounds of Evisis.
Aedashai hung lightly across his chest, and swayed to and fro as he walked back towards Hethilin. El'Desh'ketai wavered at his side, clinking ever so lightly against the metal within its scabbard. The circlet glimmered as Saeth passed under one of the beams of sunlight, and light refracted and seemed almost to flash brightly for a split second. These were all he had left. These, and his memories...
"Amache ri'il senar tanaii ave banitith?*" He murmered lightly under his breath, and continued walking long into the night.
* loosely: Why is it that I must feel so alone?
__________________
By the honor of my Father, the love of my Mother, and the pride of the Esiai'desh'mirain, you shall not harm my charge...
Posted by Orocia Agua on 11-04-2001 10:21 PM
She spent the day wandering about the mansion, admiring the interesting artworks that adorned it. A loose, simple, silk lavender dress swayed lazily with her every movement. She found it waiting for her when she awoke; it was a nice diversion from her troubling dream.
She began to write a letter to Alesshka, asking her to send her belongings up to her in Asheri, but stopped, realizing she needed to ask Rublicant exactly how to tell her to send them and where. She laughed as she left the quill on the letter, and returned to her drifting.
She wandered simply because she knew of nothing else to do. Until she came upon a servant. The woman looked like a mother, and had a warm and inviting aura, humming a folk song as she worked on her crochet. A great longing for comfort washed upon Orocia when she saw the woman.
When the servant noticed Orocia, she immediately stopped her handiwork, putting it away and standing up, to bow slightly, and very politely, asking, "What is it I may do for you, Madam?"
Orocia smiled, walking over to her,"I was just wondering if you had any extra yarn and hooks, and maybe, you wouldn't mind my company while I crocheted with you?"
The servant woman's face brightened at the request. "I'd love to have your company, Madam!"
Orocia took a seat next to her, and the woman, who Orocia learned was named Claire, offered her small basket of supplies for Orocia to choose from.
"No offense, Madam, but I'm surprised you know a needlecraft..."
"Well, I wasn't highborn. I just found myself in a rich man's mansion one day..." Orocia quickly began a simple blanket, in a cheery pale yellow. She turned her focus on it, hoping the woman wouldn't prod any further.
Fearing sounding nosy, the servant woman dropped the subject and turned the conversation between them towards the subtleties of arts and crafts.
...
It was nearing dusk, and Orocia was patiently waiting for Rublicant to arrive. She sat at the balcony, continuing her work on the blanket she started in Claire's company. Claire had caused Orocia to think of her own mother, for but a moment. And then she wondered if Rublicant had any family. She decided to ask him about it, along with asking him to give her a guided tour of his mansion.
Cue: Rublicant
OOC: Hopefully you'll give Orocia that guided tour.. if you do, she'll ask about your family while you walk her around. And she's trying her best to bury those dark memories, but they won't stay dead, so Rublicant might catch a few flashes of them if he decides to scan her mind. She might even ask what other powers, besides flying, you have as a vampire... You're still quite mysterious, and valid for suspicion, to her.
Posted by Volsung on 11-05-2001 02:05 AM
When Volsung woke up the ship had already set sail. “Well I guess this is ok better than a long farewell, but I really hoped to watch Greyon as it passed by, but I bet that we're not completely past it so I better hurry up and get on deck.” Volsung dressed quickly got up out of bed and headed to where Veritas was standing giving orders to her new crew and to Volsung surprise they were all listening. “Good morning Sister how are you doing today?”
“Fine, just getting use to running my ship. Its odd that I don’t know the names of half the men on this ship and there still doing everything I guess being a member of the Royal guard and being dedicated in sky magic will help keep a crew in order.”
“I would think so. Any way, where are we now, and how long do you think that it is going to take to get to Ioty?”
“Well we are about at the press canal and as best that I can guess it should take about three days. Any other questions.” Asked Veritas getting impatient with Volsung questions
“Nope that’s all. I guess that is all for now.” With that, Volsung walked to the other end of the ship to stay out of Veritas way. “I think that Veritas needs sometime to get use to being a captain.” Volsung thought to himself, so for the rest of the Volsung spent his time in the crows net or below decks doing his best to be helpful but to stay out of site.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 11-05-2001 05:52 PM
Rublicant found Orocia waiting almost right where he had left her. She stood there in a silk dress that looked good on her.
"How are you, tiger?"
"I'm alright, how about you?"
"Fine.. How 'bout you show me around this place.. There's a lot of places that I didn't go earlier, and some places the servants wouldn't let me go.."
"Sure I will..." Rublicant wispered close to Orocia's ear, and slipped her arm into his and began walking off, surprising Orocia, but she quickly and happily came along.
She looked delicious, thought Rublicant, but he kept his thoughts to himself and simply reflected on how she was so much his opposite. It sent shivers up his spine.
They passed paintings and pieces of art, and for each one Rublicant would stop for a moment and speak breifly of the family member or piece of art, before continuing on.
Rublicant showed her through the Library, his private studies, the ballroom, and they walked through the halls of bedrooms within the manor. As they reurned towards the great hall, Orocia spoke softly.
"Do you have any family?"
"Yes, My grandmother. She lives here. I don't think she should see me like this though, it might cut her short..."
Silence fell for a few moments as they continued walking.
"What else can you do? I mean, what powers do you have, other than flying?" Orocia asked softly, with a timid tinge in her voice.
"I can read thoughts, my fingernails are claws, and I can get inside a person's mind and make them do things," Rublicant replied homestly, and sighed.
Orocia looked stunned for a moment, and then she spoke...
Cue: Orocia
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Alexandros Fatali on 11-05-2001 06:03 PM
It had been a long time since Alexandros had seen this part of Asheri. He had been hired by the Dargent Thieves guild to take out one of their members they believed to be possessed by a demon. Lucky for them he had been in the neighborhood.
He had come this way looking for traces of his heritage, for demons and devils, or for a rogue Shadowseeker. He was on good terms with the Magi, and they dropped him a line every once in a while when they found stronger Shadow wielders. None of them ever fit the bill, though.
Niether did the Al'Teyr fellow, but a job's a job, and he was running low on money again. Too many nights in fancy inns and too many nights with comfortable women.
The house was large, but easy to get about, especially in the gardens. He spent the evening watching the man, and the woman at his side. She was likely some sort of whore the demon used for his own sick pleasures.
Alexandros checked to be sure that Indra and Ramuh were ready, and thumbed the edge of The Redeemer. He would watch for a while longer, and he would sleep. He would come back tomorrow, during the day. Demons were always weakest during the day.
__________________
May the Creator shield you and light your path...
Posted by Saeth Shen on 11-05-2001 06:16 PM
Like the eaves of Hethilin, the sadness that washed over Saeth seemed eternal. He was alone once again, having nothing to do this day, and he rested within one of the great boughs of Evisis. He had ran for many miles, so that from one of the tallest trees, he could see the great Ocean.
Saeth regularly wondered what was out past the oceans, but realized before anything else, that it was of little concern. Only the Elwain and their protection was his concern. That, and his broken spirit, which only time would mend.
__________________
By the honor of my Father, the love of my Mother, and the pride of the Esiai'desh'mirain, you shall not harm my charge...
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 11-05-2001 06:32 PM
Caliph was moving again amidst the moonlight, walking openly, not taking care to hide his tracks. He wasn't afraid of running into the unknown -- partly because he was stupid, and partly because it was his plan. A stupid plan, he freely admitted. But when you were a reclusive exiled diseased hermit, you felt at liberty to take a lot of otherwise unnecessary risks.
New Dargent was captured. He'd heard as much from the locals. And so, he didn't really care to walk into the city, especially carrying two firearms and a dagger, alone. Especially since he didn't know what he would do there anyways.
He hated himself for it, but his thoughts now turned to the land he had once called his home. He wondered if the ruling party still ate in the main hall, or would now sup quietly in small rules, huddled over candles writing proclamations and letters. He wondered if they worried. Maybe, soon, he could return.
But for now, he was in the south, not the north. He was nearing Callendar now, where he would find a place to stay, and continue trying to hear more word of the recent battles.
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Volsung on 11-06-2001 12:00 AM
The night passed slowly up in the Crows net but it gave Volsung time to practice some of his smaller spells like controlling the troches on the deck during the night shift. He often though small fire balls at the wood to see if it would burn but it very did. “Odd” Volsung thought to himself “I know when I was first learning Ki magic I got burned, but I can’t burn anything unless I use the fire from some natural source and amplified it with my magic. Yes very odd.” Volsung quieted down again going back to playing with his fire, this time he tried playing with the color first red then yellow, followed by Orange, but it took a long time before Volsung could make lighter colors like White, blue, and green. Still after a while even this made Volsung board so he decide to do a bit of reading. It had been a long time since he had stop and just read. So he climbed down and grabbed a torch from the deck then carried it back up to the Crows net it was just enough light to read by and “no one else is even up so who would know if I’m not looking out.” Volsung thought to himself. “We are no now about a day out to sea and as far north as we are sailing we shouldn’t have to worry about the Drolstorm all that much. With that, Volsung took to reading all he could about Akaros the cities, people, and royalty. But before he could finish the sun started rising over the horizon so had to put out his torch, so he threw it into the water. Then in put, his books back in his bag and waited for his replacement come. “Well at least I will get to sleep all day.” With that, Volsung sat back down and watched the sunrise.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Alexandros Fatali on 11-06-2001 12:22 AM
Alexandros fell onto his comfortable feather bed within one of the rooms in the Silver Hammer Inn. It was a fine establishment within New Dargent, and while looking for an inn, Alexandros had carried on conversations with several of the Nylian soldiers in the streets. They seemed nice, for invaders, not that the war interested him, but it could become an obstacle.
He lounged there for a moment before undoing the buckles of his boots and tossing them to the floor. He placed Indra under his pillow, and as he removed his jacket, and tossed it haphazardly to the floor, he placed Ramuh into the waist of his pants. He then tossed the holsters to the floor. The Redeemer sat in the corner of the room, leaned and glimmering in the faint moonlight.
There came a knock at the door, and a serving maid brought in Alex's food and drink he had ordered at the bar. He paid in full with a small tip. As he hungrily ate, his thoughts turned to the job. Easy in, easy out. The creature would be tough, but he seemed to be either overconfident or oblivious to danger. One way or another, it made him vulnerable. He would put up a fight, but Indra and Ramuh, with infused fire enchantments, would render him to a pile of ashes very easily. He had done it this way before, with these vampires.
He finished his meal, a decent stew, and good bread, and drank from the pitcher of wine they had brought. It was old and too sour, but Alexandros choked it down and continued making his plans in his head. Tomorrow, or the day after, he would add another notch to The Redeemer.
__________________
May the Creator shield you and light your path...
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 11-06-2001 12:43 AM
The lodging was small and plain, but more than sufficent. It was host to all kinds of wayward travellers, but not so wayward that he had managed to get in without a few suspicious glances from the "clerk" that never seemed to do any clerking. House security. Caliph had been watching the hours, and when the watchman was off shift he would buy him a drink at the pub downstairs to see what he could discover. If he was going to be here long enough, he needed to know about the kind of place he was staying in, and what sort of guests he should be wary of.
But that was for later. He was tired, and hadn't seen a bed for days. First, though, he would clean his weapons. He hadn't had but a few occasions to fire them, mostly wild game, and certainly not recently, here in more populated parts, but it was good practice. A man could only trust a weapon he maintained. And to Caliph, who had nothing in these parts to trust but his weapon, that was an imperitive.
He felt safe enough to indulge in the luxury of some ale, the first he'd had in days -- although the men he'd drank with along the way would certainly be suprised to hear that. There were several plants in pubs along the road who'd been watered with a little wine in recent days. But right now, he did drank, and he drank alone.
A little bread with salted meat and some cheese he'd found in a market were enough for dinner. He could have found better fare in the pub, but he thought it wasteful to pay for a meal he would only nibble at. He wasn't all that hungry, in spite of what he'd done.
He hid the rifle away once he had done with it, placed the pistol under his sheets with him, after carefully checking to see that he had placed the safety in right, and placed all but a handful of rounds beneath the bed. After that, he crashed and slumbered.
Tomorrow he would be busy, and it would have to be in the day. Thankfully, this once, most of it could be done indoors.
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Keiru Silver on 11-06-2001 11:23 AM
OOC: As Indigo
Indigo wasn't sure if Kaliva was leading him into more dangerous places, or if he was getting closer to the black market that Xarou seemed so closely linked to. Either way, things were getting rough.
Desperation and sleep deprivation had overridden Indigo's morals, and after a brutal scuffle, he searched the bodies for cash. He took enough for a few nights at the inn. Kaliva went in afterwards to clean up, but lord knew what she was doing, when she came out, the place wasn't any better looking.
Indigo left the hovel and headed for the inn. Kaliva was close behind, she always was. He could feel her eyes burning into the back of his head. He couldn't shake the thought that she was after something else, but his train of thought was anything but lucid, so he didn't try to reason it out. He needed some time away from her.
She was starting to creep him out.
First, the constant reminder that someone other than Scarlet was with him. Second, the constant references to pain. Third, her less than stellar personality. And to make things worse, he had a feeling that if he snuck out, she'd know, and find him.
So be it.
That night, he returned to the inn. He had a few decent leads, but Xarou was nothing if not mysterious. Almost everyone had heard of him, but no one agreed what he looked like. Of course, the promise of cash probably salted some of the locals to make up false stories. But the main thing was that he was starting to get some consistency in the leads.
Indigo approached the counter. The clerk was sitting back in his chair. Indigo swore the man hadn't moved since last he was at the inn.
"I need a room." He looked at Kaliva. "Two rooms, actually. Separate." Kaliva frowned, but showed no sign of objecting. "I need some time to myself, to think things through. Please understand."
Knowing that if further pressured, Indigo might forsake her, she nodded. Inside, she was all sharp edges. She was torn between her desire to see this man in pain, and her goal of finding the woman. She decided that latter was more important, and decided to grant Indigo a respite from her presence. She would report back to Linerin while he was away...
Indigo showered, changed, and went down to the bar. He drank water, not wanting anything to affect his thoughts. A man in dark clothing stepped up the bar.
"You carry that openly?" the man asked, pointing at Salamander.
"Yeah. It seems to have gotten me a bad reputation in the worse parts of town. But in this messed up world, you can only rely on the weapon at your side."
"So you live by that rule, too, eh? My name's Caliph." He sat down and extended his hand.
Indigo shook it. "Indigo Grei."
"Word around here is that you're searching for someone. The name Scarlet was mentioned." Caliph had found the guard most talkative after a few ales. Not all of it was pertinent, but it was clearly correct.
"Scarlet... my fiancee. She was kidnapped."
"So who's the other woman? The one you're traveling with?"
"I'm not sure I know anything about her, really. She claims to be helping me find Scarlet, but I think she may just be pushing me into dangerous situations for her own amusement."
"Women will do that."
Indigo laughed weakly. "Not Scarlet..." He looked at Caliph. "You ask a lot of questions. What brings you to Callendar? Searching for someone?" He noticed for the first time Caliph's pale skin.
CUE: Caliph. If you tell Indigo not to trust Kaliva, she's going to try to take both of us out. Are you ready for a fight against the Mistress of Pain?
__________________
Welcome to my world...
Posted by Keiru Silver on 11-06-2001 11:51 AM
OOC: As Adamas
*In the Hollow Crags...*
"What's that love? We have a visitor? On this plane?" Gaxx left his mutton and flew up to the mountaintop. A red speck in the distance flew closer and closer.
"Ahh, my love! It is our old friend!"
The red speck grew larger, and coalesced into the form of a man in front of Gaxx.
"Salamander, it is good to hear from you! What brings you to this place? What's that my love? Trouble in Asheri?"
"Gaxx... it's happening again... I feel restless. Asheri is in danger, again threatened by it's own. I know that the mortal realm is no longer mine... but it feels like home." Salamander's head sank.
"Come. We watch together. You've been gone a long time, but not so long. Others will take your place. Give your blessing."
"Are you suggesting we find someone to lead Asheri from among the living?"
Gaxx was not listening. Salamander wondered if in his insanity he was happier. Or maybe he was just a little more sane than everyone else?
"Love? Yes? Ah, I see. I'll tell him."
"My love knows of someone who loves Asheri, but was forced away... We go see him now. Come with me and my love." Gaxx flew into the air towards Gran Adageros. Salamander followed...
Adamas woke with a start. How bizarre! The dreams recently were getting incredibly vivid. He felt as if any moment, Salamander and Gaxx would appear on the balcony. He looked out the window, and to his relief, he was alone.
But still... was it prophecy? Was he to return to Asheri?
He got out of bed and went to the bathroom. He peered into the mirror above the washbasin. His red hair, the scar... it wasn't him... it was fun to play at tricks, pretending to be someone else...
The hardest role for any actor is to be himself... He quoted the poet out loud. He would wait for Rublicant's next visit, and tell him of his decision. He was going to Asheri. He was going home.
But first, he washed the dye from his hair. He was going as himself.
__________________
Welcome to my world...
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 11-06-2001 02:08 PM
"You have to go somewhere, don't you?" He shrugged, mostly a half gesture. "It's been a while since I've been able to be home. So I might as well be somewhere. And the winds from these parts smelled like they could use an old vagabond on the scenes."
He was sitting now, and had waved a waiter down to order something. He wasn't too concerned. All of it tasted mean anyways. They called it liquor, but it was like drinking dirty water. It was the price you paid for staying in an inn like this.
"I trust that, given who I've seen you with, you're not in much of a place to chose your traveling companions with much discretion."
Indigo started to say something in reply, found himself wondering what to say, and then Caliph waved him off.
"Quite alright. I don't seem to be in much of a different situation." The drink was now placed in front of him, and he sipped it carefully, covering a grimace. Aweful. "I wouldn't suggest you stay here longer than you have to. Perhaps long enough to tug a few observations out of the locals, but no more. As much of a comfort as it is to stay in a bed instead of staying out in the weather, there's no comfort in missing the mark."
Indigo looked at him. "Are you offering your help?"
Caliph smiled. "That I am, sir. If you'll take a gunslinger who's afraid of the daylight."
CUE: Indigo
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Gaireth Synphell on 11-06-2001 10:01 PM
OOC: Holy cow it has been a long time since I have posted. I am sorry for the absence. Well Here goes...
IC:
Sweat poured off Gaireth's face and back. He moved about the courtyard with the speed of lightning. In mere moments the eighteen wooden dummies he had built were nothing but splinters. He heaved a deep sigh. For countless days, and hours Gaireth had done just this. Practice. The sun was down and the stars were coming out. Ever since Rublicant had become one of the blood-suckers Gaireth had had nothing to do, but practice.
He left the dummies for the morning. He was tired. He walked to his room without making a sound. Always practice, his mind repeated as he opened his door and walked into his room. All was dark, but that was no matter to Gaireth's eyes.
He moved to his bed and lay down. He needed to rest.
Sleep swept over him.
****
Gaireth found himself staning upon a high mountain top. The cold wind whipped his black cloak about his body. He looked around and only saw mountain tops.
"Where am I?" he whispered to himself.
"You are home," a booming voice replied. A sword and dagger appeared in his hands and Gaireth turned about looking for where the voice had come from, but he was alone.
"Who goes there?"
The air around Gaireth began to writhe and boil. Suddenly a manb appeared in front of Gaireth. His first instinct was to attack, but he did not. He knew that it was not right to attack the man who stood before him.
The man was tall and wiry. He wore a robe of beep blue and carried a plain wooden staff. His white beard hung to his waist. His eyes held a power that was greater than anything he had ever seen.
"Hello Gaireth," the man greeted happily. His voice seemed to be a part of the wind around him. "I have waited for this meeting for a very long time. I have been watching you."
"Who are you?" Gaireth whipsered. He felt a kinship to the man.
"I am Gaxx of the Crags. Bringer of storms and caller of winds. Avatar of Air. I also make a mean mutton."
"How can this be? Why have you been watching me?"
"All I can tell you is that you and I are related. I wan't go into the spesifics, but we are kin. You must follow Adamas back to Asheri. There is trouble there and you must help Adamas. Though I do not approve o your lifestyle....Phantom, I believe you can be of help."
"What? Why should I believe you? How are we related?" Gaireth's mind was filled with hundreds of other questions.
The sky above Gaxx instantly darkened and lighting began to strike the mountain side. Gaireth stumbled, but did not fall. "You will obey me Gaireth," Gaxx yelled. "You have been given a chance to repent on your old ways. You had better take that chance or you will end up dead or worse. You can be a great man. Do not let the family down."
Gaireth was struck by a bolt of lightning and the world went white.
*****
He awoke with a start. Was that a dream or real? he thought to himself. He looked at his hands and found that he was shaking.
"I guess I am going back to Asheri."
OOC: Sorry its not as good as it could be. I have to get back into the swing of things. I'll also be posting my character soon.
__________________
There are two kinds of people in the city. Those that walk in the light and those who creep through the shadows. Both fear my name...Phantom
Posted by Alexandros Fatali on 11-06-2001 11:15 PM
Alexandros walked through the rich Plazzos of Dargent admiring the statues and monuments. A great monument of Slamander Armada with a gigantic blade caught his eye and made him think of The Redeemer. He reached around his back and gripped the hilt, feeling its weight in his hand. His sword was not nearly as large as the one with Salamander, but larger than most men wielded with one hand. It had its problems, but was all in all an effective weapon.
"Hey buddy, don't think about it," Came a voice from one of the corners of the plaza. A Nylian soldier stood there with a sword in hand and a shield nearby.
"I wasn't, thank you," Alexandros' toungue was sharp.
"You got a problem?" The soldier whistled, and caught the atention of a pair of other soldiers. He laughed, "Now you do.."
Alexandros shook his head, and stood still, moving his hands slowly down to Indra and Ramuh. He did not want this. But he did not need to be delayed by having to escape from prison, either.
"Come with us," Said one of the three men, "We're going to take you down to the sherrif,"
Alexanderos drew his weapons, and the three responded by raising their shields and taking a defensive posture. They were well drilled and well trained, but they were trained for large battles and sieges, not for individual combat. Alexandros did not have enough time to charge the guns, so he was constantly pivoting about, as the three men circled him.
One came at him with a lunge, followed by an upward sweep and a jump back. Alexandros dodged the lunge, and jumped above their heads to avoid the sweep, and as he decended, blasted each of the pistols once. One bullet met the man's shield, and sent it spinning to the ground, the other met with flesh and embedded itself into the soldier's shoulder. The man went down.
Alexandros manually re-cocked the revolvers, even though they were the new double action kind of gun, as the other two continued to circle, and a citizen dragged the wounded one away. They both attacked simultaniously this time, rushing from opposite sides. They were skilled, but they had not been born of Shadow. Alexandros jumped over the head and rolled several yards from the force of the jump. He came up with guns blazing.
Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam!
Alexandros nodded his head as he removed the four barreled chambers from Indra and Ramuh and attached their full chambers. They were both down now, one took two bullets in the chest, the other was struck just above the kneecap, and the bone had snapped and punctured the skin. His accuracy was improving, but still was not great. He took flight, leaping atop a pile of boxes in an alley way, and then up to the rooftops. He fled across the city via the rooftops. He had tried not to kill them, but he had failed. But only one out of the three would die. That wasn't that bad.
It took him an hour to carefully get back to his inn, and then another 15 minutes to saddle his horse, Angelheart, and make his way towards Manor Al'Teyr. Within another hour, he had tied Angelheart to a nearby tree, and walked to the house. The manor was relatively empty, as it was around dinnertime, and the creature did not eat, so the servants were in their smaller cottages eating their meals. Alexandros just let himself in.
On one of the small tables there in the entryway, there was a pile of letters. One of them had the seal already broken, so Alexandros read it.
To the presteigous Lord Doctor Al'Teyr,
The Lord Fenstril requests your presence at a dinner ball on this month's full moon. There will be dinner, dancing and music. You may bring an escort if you wish. Dinner is at 7:00. Please bring this invitation with you for admittance.
Secretary of Lord Fenstril,
Leanna Rivin
Alexandros placed the letter back on the table. What better place to expose him as a monster then in front of a bunch of Nobles. They would probably even help him. So, he thought to himself, he would set his plans for tomorrow night, the night of the full moon.
__________________
May the Creator shield you and light your path...
Posted by Nelcar on 11-07-2001 10:52 AM
The Cenacaiison:
OOC: Continued from GA, Chapter 2 Archives, pages 1 and 2.
Soon, rain was falling heavily, and Nelcar found himself wrapped in the gray cloak that he so disliked to wear. Although the sky above was hidden by the canopy, he knew that the rainstorm would not abate until the evening, so he continued onward. Getting wet would be unavoidable. The thought of his father's hearth kept him moving quickly through the Great Forest. He eagerly anticipated seeing his parents, and the warmth of a fire to dry wet clothing and heat weary limbs would be an added pleasure. Were it not for the rain and his precious parcel, Nelcar would have found himself enjoying his travels. Certainly, there could have been much to do along the way. He had not hunted in the greatest while, and there was always the matter of attending to his well worn boots. Perhaps he would stay with Oloth and Alare just long enough to mend his faithful treads.
Still, the rain gave him time to think, and thinking was just what he needed to do before he spoke with Oloth. He was still uncertain whether or not he should tell his father of his intentions, but he had decided long ago that he would not mention the Cenacaiison. He knew that his father would not understand his reasoning, and he did not wish to brew strife before he left his homeland.
He continued, and with each step, the rain fell harder until, finally, the rainstorm had invoked the powers of thunder and lightning. High above, the noon sky dark and gray like his cloak, he could see the storm between fissures in the treeline. The thunder cracked again, and there, but for a moment, he saw a silloute.
The Esiai'desh'mirain, Keepers of the Wood. He knew he had to avoid them at all costs.
CUE: Saeth
__________________
Tend to the litany,
and bare it with your wisdom.
Then, with wisdom more, bear it,
and litigate that which has now become your Law.
Posted by Alexandros Fatali on 11-07-2001 04:31 PM
It was a shame that he was not in Balanum, where they had firing ranges. Here, in Lunis, Alexandros had to ride out of Fayre, where he had traveled throught the night, and construct a makeshift target for his use. Essentially a carving of a human profile in a tree trunk, it would have to do.
Alexandros spent several minutes resetting the sights on his revolvers, taking exceptional care to be sure each was perfect. It took him almost an hour to set both of the sights to his standards, and when he was done, he started to practice.
He first drilled himself on long-aim practice, giving himself as much time as he wanted for his shots. Out of ten, he landed eight in the head, and the other two were just off of the carving. He proceeded to the short-aim, giving himself just over four seconds to aim. This time, he marked down three head shots, four torso hits, two arm hits, and a miss. He then went to his favorite part of target practice, rapid fire. He turned about and emptied both of his guns as quickly as he could, a process taking less than five seconds with both of his guns. After doing this twice, he had scored eight torso hits, one head shot, four arm hits, a leg hit, and three misses. All in all, a good practice.
His ammunition store was still good as well, out of the two hundred eighty-eight rounds he had left home with, he still had two hundred and fifteen. Alexandros was happy with his progress. He had been a better shot with his old guns, as they were lighter and chambered smaller rounds, but Indra and Ramuh were beginning to feel at home in his hands, and he was approaching his previous skill level. He was happy with himself. Tonight, he thought, the devil would die.
He unsheathed The Redeemer, and ran through several of the forms he had learned while in training in Balanum. Being able to use the sword both one handed and two handed provided Alexandros with extra power when needed, or extra speed when needed. It was a bastardized combination of the Lunari longsword style and the Nylian two handed battlesword style, that the Balans called Harlequin style. After the hour of gunmanship practice, the two hours of sword in hand felt good, and as Alexandros wiped the sweat from his forehead and resaddled Angelheart, he decided to ride for the remainder of the day, so that he could make it to the Party, somewhere near Kenoblious, by late evening.
Cue: Rublicant, Scarlet, & Orocia
__________________
May the Creator shield you and light your path...
Posted by Saeth Shen on 11-07-2001 08:09 PM
A shadow and a shine
Saeth had been sitting in a tree most of the evening, simply watching the woods. It had started to rain earlier, but the Asha cloak beaded the water off effectively. It also hid him form several Elwain that had passed earlier, before the rainfall had begun. Saeth was content to sit in his tree, watching for those that did not belong.
It was well into the rainfall when another Elwain wandered into Saeth's sight. The Elwain was huddled over, and seemed to be carrying something within his cloak. At least, Saeth assumed it was a him. Then a flash of gold came from beneath the cloak. Could it be Cenacaiison? It had been several years since Saeth had encountered the plant that only grows inder the forest's eaves and is rare even within Evisis. Saeth decided to follow the individual to his destination, and perhaps ask him about the object once there were other Elwain about. He did not want to scare him.
Hethilin was still a distance away, and Saeth shadowed the individual by a good fifty paces, in the trees where they were dense enough, and on the ground where they were not. Flyorn'El'Desh'mieve seemed to glimmer faintly from time to time, and the individual surely had to have seen it at least once. Saeth dropped back to nearly one-hundred paces after that.
It was nearly an hour of this game until they came into Hethilin, and the Elwain made his way through the other Elwain towards his likely place of residence. It was a place Saeth knew, the house of one Oloth and Alare. He waited for several minutes until he approached the dwelling, and lifted the cloth doorway aside.
"Hail fellow Elwain, I am Saeth Shen of the Esiai'desh'mirain, and I come to speak with your visitor," saeth spoke clearly in the melodious toungue.
There was but one person in the entry chamber, and he held the golden plant that was the Cenacaiison.
"Hail Esiai'desh'mirain, praise to the protectors of the wood," The Elwain stated.
Saeth raised a delicate eyebrow and stated simply, "Who are you to come into the domain of Oloth and Alare when they do not seem to be present? Where are you taking that Cenacaiison? And where did you find it? It grows rarer by the day,"
The Elwain simply replied, "I am Neclaur, second son of Oloth and Alare,"
Cue: Neclar
__________________
By the honor of my Father, the love of my Mother, and the pride of the Esiai'desh'mirain, you shall not harm my charge...
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-07-2001 08:14 PM
Scarlet fairly danced around her room. That morning an invitation had arrived requesting Xarou’s attendance for a dinner party. He had asked if she would accompany him and of course she agreed. With butterflies in her stomach and a song in her heart she tried on several dresses that now lay in a looming heap on top of the bed. Occasionally a garment would tumble from the top and onto the floor until Scarlet picked it up and flung it over a post at either corner of the bed.
A knock came from her doors. She knew who it was. Even though she was only dressed in a light slip she bade Xarou to enter. He walked through the doors dressed in very formal looking attire. Scarlet felt a blush rising in her cheeks. He looked extremely handsome in his black leather breeches and deep violet poet's shirt. She was surprised to see there was a light blush spreading across his face as well as he looked at her. With a nervous smile she broke the silence.
“I couldn’t figure out what to wear….” Xarou laughed and crossed over to where the mountain of apparel was leaning perilously close over the edge of the bed. He scanned the mound quickly and in a flash pulled out a blood red velvet gown, slightly darker than Scarlet’s hair. The sleeves were made out of gauze and were attached to two small gold armbands. The smile faded from his face as he held the dress against Scarlet. She noticed and gently caressed the folds of fabric with her fingertips.
“Does it look bad?” she asked suddenly feeling self-conscious. He shook his head. She moved her hands from the dress to his arm.
“What’s wrong?” Before she could even blink his mouth was on hers and his free hand was around her waist. Then just as suddenly as it had started the embrace ended with Xarou looking extremely flustered.
“I-I’m sorry-” His sentence was cut as Scarlet wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him into another torturous kiss. The dress dropped to the floor, forgotten, between them as the intensity built to a point of unbearable measure. It was with great difficulty that Xarou pulled away. If he continued any longer then he wouldn’t be able to hold back. He stooped down to retrieve the dress.
“This will go well with your hair.,” he whispered handing her the garment. “We should be leaving soon.” Scarlet nodded and smiled.
“I’ll be down in a few minutes.”
She dressed quickly and a servant styled her hair so that it was half up and in beautiful curled tendrils that fell just past her shoulders. Xarou had also left behind a few pieces of jewelry for her to wear. Around her neck she wore a medium sized ruby choker that was matched by a modest pair of earrings. She looked at herself in the mirror and turned to the servant.
“Do I look okay?” The servant, a young girl of about thirteen, nodded and smiled back at her.
“Yes m’lady!” Scarlet nodded her thanks and exited the room. She had learned her way around the expansive mansion over the past three days and had no trouble in finding her way to the main stairwell. At the bottom, Xarou stood looking as nervous as she felt. She smiled at his insecurity and descended the stairs with renewed confidence.
Upon seeing her, Xarou felt his heart stop for several seconds. If she was beautiful before, it was nothing compared to how she looked now. The flaming glow of the sunset paled in comparison to this goddess of fire before him. She reached his side and smiled up at him sweetly.
“Shall we?,” she asked linking her arm through his. He kissed her softly in response and escorted her to the awaiting carriage outside.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Orocia Agua on 11-07-2001 09:35 PM
Killers in the night
Orocia studied Rublicant's face, but saw nothing wavering falsely in it. But she felt compelled to dig deeper..
"You read minds, huh?" she freed herself slowly from his arms.
Her smile widened, as she walked to face him fully. "And you can manipulate a person just by getting in their head?"
To both of these Rublicant nodded yes.
Orocia stood firm in front of him. "Read my mind. Tell me what I want to do.." And then laughed a little,"Heh, try to even make me do something, then..." She smiled seductively at him.
Rublicant read her thoughts, and a faint smile crossed his lips..
"You.. want to test me..."
She stared into his eyes,"Stop beating around the bush."
A smirk flashed across his face,"Well then go ahead and do it.."
Orocia let out a peal of laughter. She was loving every second of the clever play between the two. "What is it I want to do? You don't know..??" Her smile taunted at him.
She stepped up closer to him, "Guess now.." She held his gaze as she slid her arms around his neck and pressed up close to him. Her nose softly nuzzled the edge of his jaw, and her lips softly touched his neck. She felt his arms tighten around her waist. She noticed he didn't feel as cold, perhaps because he just fed. And then her thoughts drifted away from the moment at hand and wondered how Rublicant went after his victims...
Rublicant immediately noticed the change in her thoughts. Of course, he didn't like where they weren't heading to...
But there she was, seducing the man she was about to kill. She was practically ripping his clothes off him, and pushed him down on the bed forcefully. It was quite obvious from his tented breeches that he enjoyed her dominating ferocity. She pinned him beneath her like a tiger over its kill. And just like a cat she playfully tortured her prey, but to him it was all ecstasy. She brought each of his senses to their peak as each was indulged in its own erotic fantasy, before the act of play was replaced by the lust of the hunt. She had him on the verge of climax when slyly she pulled out a dagger and stabbed him in his heart.
His face expressed still his captivity in the throes of passion, even as the sweaty blush on his face grew pale, his life blood leaving him, his quick breaths fast to slowing as he reached death.
She licked the blood off the blade and kissed him a final farewell, now tasting the blood that came from his mouth. Her work was done. Not the usual job asked of a thirteen year old...
Rublicant stood still, nearly in terror, as he read these thoughts, Orocia unaware that she let her guard slip. She still had him in her embrace, as before.
And then she bit him.
Rublicant looked down in shock at her, while she teasingly snapped her teeth at him and laughed. She gave him a quick peck on the lips, and let go of him. Rublicant could obviously tell she was trying to hide that dark past behind her smile. He could feel she meant no harm to him, but still...
She smiled sweetly at him,"Sorry... My mind wandered." And she walked back into the shadows of the room, horrifed in anxiety, not knowing if he saw her nightmare.
Rublicant: feel free to handle the invitation
Posted by Volsung on 11-08-2001 12:11 AM
Good-bye Veritas
Two days had pasted and little had changed on ship Volsung was doing his best to stay clear of Veritas, and she seem to be enjoying having control of her own ship. In any case, the sun had just risen and Volsung had been relived from his duties in the Crows Nets. “Last night I will have to do that.” He thought to himself as he walked to crew quarters. Volsung had been wondering why Veritas had been acting so odd and he had been getting very little sleep during the day, not to mention he had been suffering from a bit of seasickness every time he woke up from any sleep. All things considered, this trip was not going to well. While Volsung was on bunk considering weather to brave seasickness again, a sailor came up to Volsung with a note.
“Sir the Captain told me to give this to you,” said the young sailor.
“Thank you,” said Volsung and then the sailor when back to his duties. Volsung unfolded the letter and it read.
Volsung I need to talk to you ASAP. We are almost to Ioty and this meeting has to happen before then.
Captain Veritas
Volsung didn’t know what to make of Veritas note. Was she feeling sorry or was she just wishing him off. In any, case Volsung when to see what Veritas had up her sleeve. When he found Veritas, she was is her cabin drinking some tea, which the king had put on the ship just for her “Volsung!” She yelled “Its good to see you. I’m sorry about how I have treated you the last couple of day, but Leada told me that it would probity work better if I acted like we were on the outs the way crew would more likely respect me. And I must say so far it has worked.”
“Well it is good to know that you are still the kind person I have know for so long.” Then Volsung switched gears “So do you have anything else to tell me?”
“Yes I do first off I when behind your back and I asked the Dreamchasers Guild to send you a guide.” Volsung said nothing so Veritas continued, “His name is Ollis Nerend he is said to be the best guide of all Akaros. He will be waiting on the dock for you he is bald with a bread and will respond to the phrase ‘It's hard to catch dreams in a place like this,’
The after that he will lead you to anywhere in Akaros.”
“Well thank you Veritas. I thought that something was up but I could put my finger on it. In any case I wouldn’t forget this I just with I had something from you.” Volsung paused for second and then started talking again, “Well I will think of some thing until then can you tell me about your plans after I get off.”
“Well I think I will head towards Sungan to see if I can pick up any cargo there and maybe even a brother.”
“Wow that is very kind of you. Well in that case I know what I can give you now.” Volsung took his bag off his back and then pulled out the pieces of Vesta. “Veritas will you look after this off me. I think that this would be the best way to keep it safe while I’m in Akaros, and I know of no better way of thanking you for all you have done for me.”
“I would be honored.” With that Volsung gave Veritas the pieces and she put them in a piece of fabric. Then they hugged and both started crying they both knew that it was time to go there spread ways and so they cried even harder. After a few minutes of crying Volsung wiped the tears from, his eyes and went to the deck to wait for Ioty.
“It was a only about a hour before the watch man called out “Ioty, I see Ioty.” The whole crew came on deck to see that which very few that sail this rout ever see Ioty. Others mainly the older sailor got he ship ready to dock. Then Veritas can up on deck and spoke to the crew.
“Good work Men I’m never been prouder of all of you, and you all will be paid as soon as we get a cargo off get it delivered.” A great cheer when up almost likes it was new years. Volsung kept out of site. There was nothing for him to now, but wait until the ship landed.
The ship made a smooth landing, and as soon as it was tied down, Volsung got off the ship. As he walked off he did his best not look back. He had said Good-bye to Veritas he wasn’t going to turn around now because if he did she would bust into tears, and so would he. So, Volsung simply walked down the dock never looking back.
When Volsung was a few hundred yards down the dock he felt that it was safe to look around the first thing he seen was a tall man about 6 feet tall who was bald with a bread. Volsung decided that his must be the man that Veritas told him about so, Volsung walked up to the man and Said “It's hard to catch dreams in a place like this.”
“Only if you don’t know where to look.” Volsung was puzzled by the responds, but he knew that this man must be a guilder. “My name is Ollis Nerend I will guide you to anywhere you want to go. Any questions?”
“No really, well yes. Do you know any good places to stay the night that don’t cost all that much money?” Ask Volsung with a bit of cwither in his voice.
“Yes, follow,” with that Ollis lead Volsung off.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Keiru Silver on 11-08-2001 10:54 AM
OOC: As Indigo
Kaliva was waiting at the top of the stairs leading down to the bar. She didn't look happy.
"Who is this?" she demanded.
"Caliph Wyrdwyrm. He's along for the ride," Indigo said.
Kaliva had not the time to prepare a proper lie, so she made one up, based on the story she had given Indigo earlier. "I do not see you in Scarlet's future. Turn back, or you will die."
Caliph nodded. "You claim to predict fate, as Indigo said. Fate is a fickle mistress. I hope she doesn't mind you toying with people. You could find yourself strapped to Fate's wheel this night."
She clenched her teeth. Obviously, Caliph was possessed of his wits, and Indigo was starting to regain his own.
"Fine! I will let you find the whore of your own account!" she spat. She turned to walk away, but not without a final jab. "This much is true, boy. I may not be possess of foresight, but at this moment, Scarlet is willfully ...enjoying Xarou's presence!"
Indigo drew Salamander as quick as his arm would allow, but Caliph stepped in front of him.
"Put it away, friend. You'll acquire only a guilty conscience and a murderer's reputation."
"No one talks about Scarlet like that!" he shouted, pointing over Caliph's shoulder. Caliph grabbed the gun by the barrel and pointed it down, stepping sideways slightly so that the gun was never pointed at him personally.
"Forget about the witch. If we're to find this girl, I have a few ideas where to look..."
Scarlet, where are you being held? PM me for informational purposes... Caliph, you can respond too.
__________________
Welcome to my world...
Posted by Trago Hayle on 11-08-2001 01:14 PM
Lightning flashed, illuminating the pitch dark skies over the Magel* Ocean. Trago stood on the deck of The Crimzadwire, watching as well as he could the vague shadows that flitted about, the forms of his crew tying down loose ropes and preparing for the storm ahead. As another bolt flashed, Trago could see but one ship on the horizon, the same ship he had seen just weeks before. A third flash signaled the start of strong winds and a rain so cold it felt like the teeth of a sea cow on Trago’s bare arms. Turning about, he quickly went below decks to get his thick cloak.
As he was about to return to the deck, Trago heard a soft whimpering coming from the corner. Graham, the young stowaway who had joined Trago’s crew just a few weeks before sat cringing in fear, never having faced a storm on the ship before. Trago’s face wrinkled in anger, an emotion not common for the sailor. “Git, boy! Git yer arse off’n that floor an’ lend a helping’ hand out dere.”
The boy simply tried to burrow into the floor.
“C’mon ya little coward!” Trago shouted through the increasing roar of the wind. Even below decks the storm could be heard like the resounding clamor of the Gods. “You wanted to be a sailor, here’s yer chance!” He grabbed the boy by the arm, dragging him through the door to the deck, completely unprepared for what he saw next.
Men were holding on for their lives as the wind tossed them around like a child’s cotton doll. The seas raged, waves crashing upon the deck. Trago tossed Graham back into the doorway, slamming the door shut behind him. “Ye Gods is this wind a mighty gale!” He ran to the nearest deckhand in need, pulling the sailor back over the rails. “Get under! It’s hell ta survive up ‘ere!” The man quickly ran to the hole, shutting the door tightly behind him. Trago dashed about, helping as many in need as he could, sending them back under the deck. He saw Brock standing firmly in the middle of the deck, men holding on to his legs as if they were as solidly planted as the masts. The massive half-bull roared in the wind, defying the Gods’ wrath with pleasure. Trago rarely saw the minotaur not enjoying himself, and that evoked a smile from the weather-beaten captain.
After most of the men had gotten below decks and he was sure the rest could make it, Trago himself entered the undercarriage of the ship. Mere minutes afterwards, everyone below could here the roaring wind die down to a soft purr and the rain lessen significantly. Trago was the first to exit the cabin, viewing the now calm seas with his own eyes. This was a difficult task, however, for the clouds still remained, blocking nearly every form of light. Only flashes of lightning in the distance gave significance to the ability of sight. Brock still stood in the middle of the deck, tired after his show of defiance. Laegre moved about quickly, repairing any minor damages and calling for others to fix the major ones. The whole world seemed to have slowed down as if it were asleep, only the simple heartbeat of thunder showing it was alive. Then, a soft hissing sound arose, coming from the foredeck of the ship, or so it seemed to Trago. It grew gradually, hiding itself in the soft rumble of thunder. Trago walked over near its source to inspect closer, and could soon feel a soft spray of water coming from just over the edge of the ship.
Lightning flashed, and Trago recoiled in horror.
Before him, cloaked in darkness, was one of the most hideous denizens of the sea Trago had ever witnessed in his many years of sailing. He had only a moment to view it, but to him it seemed like hours. Not as large as some of the sea creatures he’d seen in his days, but Trago was still quite taken aback. A long, serpentine neck, nearly five or six hands around, rose before him, one large, continuous fin running down its back, beginning at the top of its flat head. Sharp teeth were mere feet from his face, and he stared directly into the creature’s eyes, the thin film of skin covering them protecting it from the salty sea where it dwelt. The deep blue shade of the creatures scales allowed it to further blend into the night air, and if it weren’t for the flash of lightning, Trago may have not noticed the monster in time. It’s nostrils flared as the light faded away, allowing the creature to dissolve back into the pitch blackness. “A myrkbeast!”
The creature’s head snapped forward, biting into empty air and just missing the less than agile Trago as he dove to the deck. “Brock, Laegre, we’s got a big problem! Git yer blades and get the men working the sails!” Trago shouted as he dashed to get down into the hole. Crewmen rushed out to prepare the sails for a swift bank. The lightning increased, as if the Gods decided to lend a helping hand to the stalwart ship, which illuminated the creature more often, allowing the sailors to prepare for its rapid strikes. Brock emerged from the cabin first, his wide battle axe thirsting for blood, the lightning highlighting its well-polished silver head. It was obviously enchanted, for the silver was as unmarred as the day it was forged, and yet had never been repaired despite the fact it had seen its fair share of combat.
“For Gorgroth’s Honor!” the massive demihuman cried as he leapt towards the myrkbeast. Laegre was soon behind him, his rapier grasped firmly in his left hand. Trago came third carrying his pilfered cutlass. Many other sailors followed carrying various weapons and even torches, and Trago knew a warning would not deter the men. This was their home as much as it was his, and they were as willing to protect it as any man would his family.
The beast pulled back, preparing to strike and causing many men to draw back. A head shot forward over the deck, catching an unfortunate sailor in it’s maw. Brock struck first, his axe deflecting harmlessly off of the matte scales of the creature. Trago and Laegre both succeeded however, managing to pierce the creature just next to its gills, which were just behind the head. Drops of blood splattered on the deck as the victim of its first strike fell to safety. Another sailor pulled him out of harm’s way, and made sure the man was still breathing. He had been chewed badly, but he would live. The creature darted in several more times, but missed catching another victim. The crew, however, became luckier with their attacks, landing a few small jabs every now and then. Sooner or later, Trago knew this creature would take men with him. He had to think of a way to rid himself of this monster.
Distracted by his own thoughts, Trago did not see the beast eyeing him, the meaty captain becoming its next intended victim. The head shot forward just as Laegre jumped towards the captain, desperately attempting to save the captain. The beast’s teeth dug into Trago’s leg, but it only managed to rip chunks of flesh off of his leg and didn’t get a firm grasp. Laegre, however, wasn’t so lucky. The beast managed to get Laegre’s torso halfway into it’s maw, which became clenched tightly. Brock bellowed another war cry, swinging his mighty axe in a downward thrust at the creature. It dug deep, just below the eye, cutting through the scales like a lightning bolt through a mast. The beast recoiled in pain, but it’s jaws stayed firm, not wanting to let its meal get away again. In moments, it vanished into the depths of the sea, taking Laegre’s now limp body with it.
Trago rushed to the side of the deck, nearly jumping in after. “Laegre!! Git back up here. That’s a COMMAND,” he roared, knowing there was no way the first mate could respond. He stood there for a few more moments, hoping for any sign of life, but the sea had returned to a calm, peaceful state. Brock laid a massive hand on Trago’s back, understanding the loss. Trago turned, attempting to look gruff. “Well, First Mate Brock, are you ready to sail on?” Brock simply nodded, and left to direct the men to their jobs. Most were standing about, saddened by the loss of a trusted sailor. Others helped the fallen comrade in need of aid. None came near Trago to assist with his wound. Only Brock returned for but a moment, looking out towards Laegre’s new grave. “He was loyal to the end.” Trago listened to the giant half bull’s footsteps thumping on the deck as Brock walked away.
The ship on the horizon sailed easily through the sea, almost mocking Trago in its tranquility.
* As a side note, the Magel Ocean was so named because of Eiken Magel, the first explorer from Asheri to reach Gran Adageros. It lies between the two continents, north of Asheri and south of Adageros.
__________________
"You need it, and I got it, so it seems the price may be a bit steep this time. Say, five times as much? Of course that's preposterous, that's why I said it. I knew you'd see it my way. It's been a pleasure doing business with you!"
Posted by Keiru Silver on 11-08-2001 01:23 PM
"So are we going to wait for Rublicant?" Gaireth asked.
Adamas shook his head. "We seem to have grown apart. Ever since he became... one, he seems to have his own agenda. Besides, if he wishes to find me, he will. I'll leave him a note."
"Lord Al'Teyr is-"
"Not just him, Gaireth. There's always been something sinister about the Al'Teyr line. Even the great Ezra had a few missing pieces. But furthermore, I can't wait any longer. Asheri is in danger. Local merchants haven't confirmed it, but I hear rumors of something going on in Dargent."
Adamas paced absentmindedly while Gaireth looked on. Adamas had been initially startled by his offer to come with, but after hearing his story about Gaxx of the Crags (who apparently made a mean mutton as well), he decided that distrust was not going to help. Had Gaireth desired any of the things that were in the household, he'd have already taken them.
"Dargent has always been the starting place for wars. I guess it's because it's on the old border."
"It stands to reason. But who would be behind it? There are whispers of VanVehementi, but..."
"Does it matter? Perhaps we should start packing, and see when we get there."
"Yes, Gaireth, you're right." That was another thing that eased Adamas discomfort. He had stopped requesting to be called Phantom. Obviously, Adamas would use that name in Asheri, for security's sake, though.
Gaireth left the room, and Adamas began to pack his own things.
__________________
Welcome to my world...
Posted by Rublicant Al'Teyr on 11-08-2001 08:36 PM
Rublicant let her be for a moment before approaching Orocia in the corner. He extended a hand to her, and as she took it, he kissed it gently.
"You used to kill people. You were an assassin of sorts? Young, deadly, sexy... Exactly what an assassin needs to be in, well, from the looks of the city out the window of your memories, Corner or Southdale?" Rublicant held her hand softly.
Orocia recoiled in shock, not so much that he had said that, it was her dark past after all, but more that he truely could read her thoughts. She wondered how many times he had used this before. Rublicant simply stood deathly still gently stroking her hand as she thought.
"So you really can read thoughts..."
"Yes.. Does it really matter?"
"Yes, and no.. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you, though I doubt I'd be dead, I would be in danger... I suppose that's worth some credit."
"Thank you, Tiger,"
The two walked through the manor for a while longer in silence, Rublicant commonly looking into Orocia's Aquamarine eyes for the strange comfort they provided to him. Orocia squeezed Rublicant's hand form time to time, and was met with a gentle reply.
As the twilight began, Rublicant retired to his secret chambers for sleep. And for the few hours that Orocia remained awake, she searched about the house for interesting things. She found an older longsword mounted on a plaque that was apparently weilded by Ezra Al'Teyr. She also came across a letter that had been dropped upon the ground in the front parlor. It was addressed to Rublicant, but she read it as the first rays of light pierced the darkness.
To the presteigous Lord Doctor Al'Teyr,
The Lord Fenstril requests your presence at a dinner ball on this month's full moon. There will be dinner, dancing and music. You may bring an escort if you wish. Dinner is at 7:00. Please bring this invitation with you for admittance.
Secretary of Lord Fenstril,
Leanna Rivin
Orocia decided that after she had slept that she would prepare for this party, not like her and Rublicant had anything better to do anyways...
as the sun was setting
Orocia glided across the tile of the ballroom in the Al'Teyr Manor. She was dressed in an elegant purple silk and velvet dress that was once worn long ago by Rublicant's grandmother. It was old, beautiful, and cut low in the old fashioned Nylian style. She wore a pair of slippers taken from the same closet, and Her hair had been done by Laurana herself. It was quite nice, as Orocia had decided the style herself. She looked almost noble, as long as she wore the long arm-length gloves to cover her tatoos.
Rublicant rose just as the sun set, and met Orocia within minutes. Suprisingly, he was dressed in formal clothes, a long black smoking jacket, with a ruffled shirt, and shimmering pants. He wore several rings and such on his fingers, and around his neck, he wore the Pendant of the Crags, as his grandmother had called it.
"Shall we?"
"How do you know?" Orocia blushed, "I never told you!"
"You did, but without words, as I slept..."
The two laughed for a moment and then embraced. Rublicant's fingers ran through Orocia's hair and Orocia held him tight as he did so. He was still cold, and must have needed to feed.
"Shall we go then? It's going to be a bit of a flight, but not nearly as long as before," he chuckled.
"Yes, let's go!"
Cue Orocia.
OOC: Transit will take slightly more than an hour form Manor Al'Teyr to Manor Fenstril. Rublicant will stop somewhere to feed before we arrive... Pick up at the Dinner Ball, if you would please..
__________________
"It's strange, how some people see blood as a simple thing. but I know the truth. Blood is power..."
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 11-08-2001 09:53 PM
"Maybe you could strike true. And then, what would become of her? Maybe she'd die. You'd have a corpse to deal with, and an explanation to give, which could waylay you, perhaps permanantly. Or she could live, and continue to plague you. A true marksman knows which target he is aiming for. Your objective is Scarlet."
Caliph lead him away. "Now every second you waste here is a second she is farther away from you. Collect yourself. Save your anger for when it's necessary. Now is not the time to be a man. Now you are to be a predator."
Indigo followed Caliph hesitantly. "And where are you going?"
Caliph stayed silent until they reached the bar. "Stay here. I won't be but a minute."
Caliph dropped some coin on a table near the corner and bowed in to hear some whisper. He nodded and walked back to Indigo.
"I don't know what strange company you keep, but I am determined now to find the girl quickly, so that I can have very little to do with them in the future. I'm a politician, not a taskmage. In any case, somebody was kind enough to tell me which way your girl was last seen going. I'm loathe to move by day, but I really fail to see how we can avoid it. Gather your things while I pay the bills." Caliph's small traveling pack was already on his shoulders. "Meet me at the market... I'll gather some salted meats for the way. Take the other woman if she'll come, or don't, it matters not to me. We should be on the road in less than an hour."
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Nelcar on 11-09-2001 11:28 AM
The Cenacaiison:
There Nelcar stood, in the small chamber, holding the fern near his side. Certainly, the kinsman standing before him was of the Esiai'desh'mirain. He was tall and powerful, yet he stood motionless, as if all the world were passing by, leaving him forever in his place. Despite, however, the stillness about him, the elf's eyes pierced Nelcar as if they commanded arrows through his very heart. Somehow, Nelcar knew that he had seen this kinsman hours before, between the flashes of lightning. Nelcar had tried to ward of off any pursuit, but he had been followed by this tracker. And now, he had seen the Cenacaiison.
Nelcar spoke, "Do now the Esiai'desh'mirain know of my secret vale? Will, finally, the bower no longer keep the sacred light within, hidden and safe under the eaves of Hethilin?"
"Nay, the vale that you speak of remains hidden, if not, perhaps, in thy imagination," spoke the kinsman. He seemed to whisper, yet Nelcar could easily understand what he said. "But, before me I see the Golden Fern, that it may forever bless the forest with its light. I say again, where, brother, did you discover such radience, and why have you taken it with you, uprooted and unsettled, its roots no longer entwined deep within the soil?"
"Who are you to ask of me knowledge of such things? Should you press in the House of Oloth? I am Neclaur, His Mother's Son, and that is all you shall know. Soon away would I have thee."
"Then Neclaur, he who presses beneath thy father's roof shall be called Saeth Shen of the Esiai'desh'mirain. I will away, but so shall the Cenacaiison. Little reason have you given me to understand why now you have taken it to your father's home. If I leave, so too shall it."
"Nay. Then you must stay against my will. For this fern shall not pass through those doors again unless it lies with its caretaker, and Nelcar shall be such a caretaker. Stay if you must. Never shall Alare's son be known as one who does not harbor the Esiai'desh'mirain. I wait my master, Oloth."
Without saying another word, Nelcar turned quickly from Saeth, his dark hair following shortly thereafter, and made his way from the chamber.
From another room, flickering softly with candlelight, Nelcar called to his guest. "Rest your cloak and bear no arms within. Come. Witness the fern that you have, until now, only espied from afar with suspicious glances."
CUE: Seath. I presume to continue a discourse between Nelcar and Saeth until Oloth and Alare return.
__________________
Tend to the litany,
and bare it with your wisdom.
Then, with wisdom more, bear it,
and litigate that which has now become your Law.
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-09-2001 06:05 PM
Scarlet couldn’t conceal the gasp of amazement that escaped from her as she and Xarou entered the lavishly decorated hall. A long line of tables made a crescent around the room surrounding the dance floor, where several couples were already dancing what looked like a complicated reel. The hall itself was as big as a cavern with tall windows stretching to the ceiling high above the party below. It made Scarlet dizzy to think of the height, so she concentrated instead on the nobles who milled about together giving admiring looks to a group of ladies situated across the floor. One of these, a strong young man with sandy hair noticed Scarlet in her flaming red glory and proceeded to cross over to where she stood with Xarou.
“Xarou! What a marvelous surprise to see you here! And what a marvelous creature you have with you.” He added as he kissed Scarlet’s hand. She fought the impulse to giggle and somehow managed to keep herself under control. The man introduced himself as Eriu Dseus and invited Scarlet and Xarou into the small circle of men that gave the same curious stare as she was introduced to each in turn. She noticed a strikingly pale man with shoulder length blonde hair and glittering maroon eyes that studied each member of the group as if reading their thoughts. It couldn’t have been terribly interesting because he looked very bored. She smiled to herself and thought,
I know how you feel…
He shifted his gaze to her suddenly, allowing the corners of his mouth to curve up ever so slightly. She blinked in alarm and wondered if he could really read minds after all. He took a step toward her and like Eriu, deftly kissed her hand. She admired his seemingly natural grace.
“My name is Rublicant Al’ Teyr.” He whispered in a voice that only Scarlet seemed to hear. He straightened himself and spoke to Xarou.
“I believe the Lady Scarlet would be happier talking with the women.” Xarou narrowed his eyes but nodded his head in compliance. Something about Rublicant made him uneasy, and he certainly didn’t want him around Scarlet. He kept a careful eye on them as he led Scarlet to the other side of the room where she was evidently welcomed into the crowd of noblewomen that had gathered there. Smiling, he thought of the events earlier that afternoon. The Lethesbane was working far beyond his expectations. A voice came from his right, interrupting his thoughts. It was Eriu.
“She’s absolutely splendid Xarou. Where did you find her.” He closed his eyes and smiled.
“From a family I used to serve. Imagine their surprise when they came up one daughter short.” The men around him laughed. Another man by the name of Irnan Grainne inquired.
“Is she on the market then?” Xarou looked at him icily, but said nothing. He didn’t need to. Irnan shrank back from his gaze.
The silence that followed was short lived as all the women swarmed in to claim the men as dancing partners. Scarlet rushed over to Xarou and pulled him into a vigorous dance. Occasionally from the corner of her eye she would spot Rublicant dancing with a young woman in a beautiful purple gown. Something about her struck a familiar chord within Scarlet’s mind. Whenever she looked at her she could almost remember…..
The girl looked directly at her and gasped in surprise. Before Scarlet had time to wonder why she was hugging her around the middle and fairly shouting with joy.
“Scarlet!! How have you been?!”
“What? Who are you?” The girl looked at her with bright aqua eyes that showed the slightest hint of confusion.
“Don’t you remember? It’s me, Orocia!”
CUE: Orocia. I’ll let you take it from here. Scarlet will only remember seeing you aboard the ship which she thinks was bound for New Dargent. So if you question her about anything personal she won’t be able to remember anything.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Mavi Denn on 11-10-2001 03:46 AM
Shipwrecked
It was a lovely day. The sun was out and only a slight breeze, lapping of the waves and the call of seagulls broke the silence and tranquility of the afternoon. Laying on the wet sand of the beach of the north coast off Pontifar, a small human figure was spralled. Mavi lay completely motionless except the slight movement of her hair in the breeze. Beside her body was a plank of wood with part of the name "Maninora" writen with white paint. The waves gently lapped at her ankles as if to try and wake her. A seagull landed on the sand beside her and waddled cautiously toward her and pecked at her clothing that was clinging to her small, thin body and found no satisfaction. The bird flew off in search of more appetizing food, leaving Mavi there. Her eyelids finally flickered and her hand showed that she was in fact alive. She opened her eyes but closed them as the bright sun glared down at her. She lifted her head and faced it the other way and opened her eyes once more. She lay there, soaking the reality of it all in. Before she could stop herself, her body shaked with quiet sobs as she lifter her body up so that she was sitting on her knees. She was the only survivor.
She was supposed to be on the "trustworthy" ship called the Maninora, but it sprung a leak and sank about a mile out into sea. She must've secured herself to the plank that sat beside her and bacame unconscious and wake up on the sand. Her body shivered as a breeze swept over her body. She lifted herself up wearily and scanned the beach for any other sign of life. The only life she discovered were seagulls patrolling the coast and a hermit crap scuttle from a heap of seaweed to a small pile of rocks and hid. she felt a tear trickle down her cheek and she walked slowly down the beach.
After what seemed like hours, she saw her first sign of human life. She waved at a lowly fisherman dragging his tiny skiff onto the shore and begin to gather his catch. He saw her and just stood there for a moment, trying to figure out if she was in distress or just being friendly. She ran toward him and stopped a few yards from his location. She yelled at him.
"Sir? Can you tell me where i am? i'm lost."
the man looked shocked for a second then smiled and tolded her that she was off the coast of Pontifar. she gave him a curious look and he told her where that is. She frowned and asked if he could take her home, but he shook his head but agreed to take her to Pontifar.
She smiled and walked with the man, making sure she was a step in front of him, in order not to take whiff of the foul fishy smell carried on the ocean breezes.
It didn't take long for the two to make it to the town of Pontifar and she was awed at the size difference of Rysend and Pontifar. Pontifar was Definitely larger and it seemed to prosper more.
She was given board in a kind widow's home and she was refreshed on the news of Asheri. She was suddenly deeply saddened when she realized that her parents and all her friends on the ship had died, and she was the sole survivor of the incident. She remembered nothing of the shipwreck. She did not know what caused it, when it happened and if anybody at all was still alive, although she doubted it.
At least she was alive...
__________________
God Bless America
Posted by Keiru Silver on 11-10-2001 09:09 AM
The market bustled at the hour, and Caliph was easy to spot, with his hood up and cloak drawn tight. Kaliva had not returned to her room, and when checked by the innkeeper, it was vacant. Although Indigo couldn't remember her having any belongings, he assumed she would not be back.
"Caliph! How goes it?"
"Well enough, well enough. The woman has forsaken her quest? Or is she about somewhere?"
"I doubt it. I think she's gone."
She was not gone, merely out of sight. She would not give up on Scarlet. She needed her...
"Did you get some provisions?" Indigo asked.
"Yes. Enough to last us for a while. ...I'm glad to see you're in higher spirits than last night."
"Not that high. Not until I find Scarlet." He shook his head.
"Understood. Speaking of which, there's a dinner ball at a mansion in Kenoblious. Xarou is rumoured to be attending."
"With anyone?"
"Not by himself, for sure, but that's not to say it's Scarlet. Anyway, we'll head for Kenoblious. We'll ask around when we get there, but until then, keep your head down and your ears open." Caliph's words were reassuring to Indigo. "It also seems that one of the 'dens' you cleared out a few nights ago was owned by a stable keeper, and he seems to want to repay a favor."
"Let me guess. He's lent us his two fastest horses?" Indigo smiled.
"Not at all, that would be foolish. He's not a business owner for throwing out favors like that. He's giving us one horse. And I'm sure we can get another one somewhere."
Things were finally coming together. Just knowing that they had a reliable lead made Indigo a little more at ease...
Cue Caliph, if thou so desirest.
__________________
Welcome to my world...
Posted by Mavi Denn on 11-10-2001 04:01 PM
Waking up orphaned...
In the morning at the widow's home in Pontifar, Mavi woke in the bed in the room given to her by the kind lady. She sat up and looked around, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. she looked out the widow and watched the shore and the fishermen repairing nets and shoving off for another day of fishing. This day was a beautiful as the day she arrived. Yawning, she climbed out of the bed and put on some slippers made for her. Sitting on the side of the bed, she lifted her feet to examine them and was satisfied with the slippers and the warmth they gave her. She slid from the matress and walked to a large wardrobe and opened the seemingly massive doors to see a small set of cloths. she grinned as she lifted herself to her tippy-toes to reach the clothes neatly folded on the chest inside. She put the clothing on the foot of her bed and lifted up a light green tunic for inspection. She smiled once again and laid it out on the covers. She smiled as she ran her hand over the exelent, beautiful embroidery. On the collar, dark green vines twisted around with little white and pink flowers grew and speckled on the vine. On the chest pocket was a white flower with a butterly resting serenely on the rim of one of the petals. On the cuffs the vines and flowers continue from the collar.
After she dressed, she walked out into the small, tidy kitchen and watched as the widow in her early 50's flipped pancakes in a pan on her stove. When she heard Mavi walk into the room she turned and smiled.
"Mavi. You're so....adorable in those clothes. Those were my eldest daughters."
Mavi smiled and climbed up onto a stool by the counter. The widow, that she later learned was known as Mendita put two golden brown pancakes on a plate and slid it across the counter toward Mavi. She pulled out a small jar of surup and placed it beside Mavi's plate and poured some fresh cow's milk into a glass from a pitcher. Mavi grinned as she devoured the delishous meal and thanked Mendita as she scampered outside to explore Pontifar. As she made her way through the streets, word must have gotton around about her presence, for when she passed through the marketplace, the vendors and clients turned to see her go and some shook their heads and clicked their tongues to see such a young girl orphaned so quickly. She reached in her pockets and discovered a small purse. She opened it and removed a small scrap of paper that read:
Mavi-
In here is some money for you so that when you are hungry, you may buy some food and such.
~Mendita
Grinning, she searched the coin purse and removed some unfamiliar coins. She walked over to a fruit vendor and stood on a wooden crate to see over the top of the table. She scanned the merchandise and chose a pretty red fruit that looked like an apple shaped as a pear. She laid out one of each coin and asked which one he needed. The vendor took one glance at them and picked up a silver coin the size of a nickel and smiled, putting the coin in a small box and handed her the fruit. She thanked him and stepped off the crate and inspected the fruit. She took one bite of it and smacked her lips in satisfaction. Juice dribbled down her chin but she did not mind. When she finished the fruit, she whiped her lips on her sleeve and continued to wander the streets.
She made her way through the crowded marketplace and looked at all the wonderfull trinkets, fruit, veggetables, meat and animals there was to sell. Her eyes widened considerably as she watched a massive (from her point of view), magestic brown and white horse pass by. She giggled as the horse bent its head down and sniffed her, only to be yanked forward by its leader. She already loved Pontifar, more so than Rysend, but she wanted to return home.
She was back at Mendita's house before nightfall and she went straight to bed after saying her hellos and a short discription of her magnifisant trip through the market and streets of Pontifar. She went into the bedroom and replaced the beautiful tunic and breeches for a warm, cotton night gown and crawled into bed.
The next morning, she redressed in another slendid blue tunic with embroidered flowers on the collar and cuffs. On this chest pocket was a dragon with flowering vines crawling and encaging the mighty beast. Well pleased with her clothing and hair, she went back to the quaint kitchen and had some delicious eggs and bacon. When she was finished, a knock came at the door. Mendita dried her hands on a cooking towel and opened the door to a young man of about 25. She smiled and let him in. She could just see a horse and pony tied to a post just beyond the front porch. The man exchanged small talk with Mandita before walking to Mavi, sitting on a stool, swinging her short legs.
"Hello Mavi. I'm Cionn, a horse trader and guide."
Mavi looked at him curiously and he continued.
"Mendita hired me to take you back to Rysend...Is that alright? I have a pony outside waiting for you and me and and small band of men. We are going along land unless you wish to go along sea."
Mavi remembered the shipwreck and even though she couldn't remember any of it, she didn't want to cross the sea again. She told him that she was willing to go across land and he agreed. He bowed and walked back to Mendita, just out of ear shot of her.
Mendita returned to her and instructed her that she was to leave in the morning and that she'd pack some clothes for her. Mavi nodded and walked out the door to explore Pontifar again before she was to leave.
The next morning, she was awakened by Mendita, who was smiling down her her.
"Rise and shine Mavi! your going on a trip back to Rysend!"
Mavi listened to Mendita talk to her and reasure her of her safety in her kind, cheerfull voice. Even though it was hidden by her cheerfullness, Mavi could tell that Mendita was sad to see her leave.
She walked outside carrying a bag in her hands and one of the men took it from her and packed it on a packmule. She mounted the small, sturdy pony and they were on their way, eating fruit and cakes as they made their way to the edge of town.
__________________
God Bless America
Posted by Saeth Shen on 11-10-2001 04:28 PM
Saeth left his Asha cloak on a small hook that was present, and leaned El'Desh'katai and Aedeshai against the wall of the dwelling. He proceeded within as Neclaur had, and sat across form the Elf on a mat that was upon the floor, and between the two of them sat the Cenacaiison.
They sat in dead silence for some time, simply admiring the golden beauty of the rare plant. Saeth observed the Elf as well, noting some of his resctions and movements. He was lithe and small, and seemed to be possessed of a natural dexterity, but also there was great wisdom in his eyes.
"Why is it that you are so adamant?" Saeth alluded to his own impaitence, "I shall not harm the plant, I sahll simply return it to the earth,"
"I am adamant becasue I must be adamant,"
Saeth pondered this for a moment, and then replied, "What is it that you seek to do with the Cenacaiison? If it is honourable enough, I might allow you to keep the golden plant for yor purpose,"
Nelcar then pondered these words and remained in silence for a long period.
Saeth spoke again, "Is it that you seek to dishonor the Elwain by stealing the golden leaves of the Cenacaiison?"
Neclar cringed. This Elf was insulting his honor. He thought for a moment longer, and then proceeded to raise and walk about.
Cue: Neclar
__________________
By the honor of my Father, the love of my Mother, and the pride of the Esiai'desh'mirain, you shall not harm my charge...
Posted by Volsung on 11-10-2001 04:35 PM
Volsung woke up to the site of Ollis standing over him saying, “I’m not paid enough to sit here while you sleep the days away!” After hearing, this Volsung realized that this was not some bad dream, but his real guide trying to get him out of bed.
“I’m up, I’m up,” Volsung said jumping from the sheets. “You don’t have to wake me up like that I've only been asleep since 2 pm and judging by the sun its about 8am so that’s 18hr.”
“It has been 42 hours since you went to bed, in fact I was about to go back to my master to drop this job.”
“Wow, that is a long time. Well I can’t do anything about it now.” Shrugging it off because he knew better than to worry about it, “In any case, in my sleep I did decided where I want to go. I think that are first stop should be Ciwa.”
“Fine by me I hate being in one place for to long and I hate traveling with people, but when Dreamchasers call you can’t turn them down.” Ollis stop to gather his thoughts a thing he offend did as Volsung soon found out. “The best way would be to fly. You are dedicated aren’t you?”
“Yes, but I haven’t flown anywhere in my life,” answered Volsung with surprise at the question.”
“Well what are you, an earth Magic user because I have seen members of every other dedication fly.”
“Really! I never knew. Well what are you? I mean personally I’m fire, and if your fire too maybe you could teach me a few things.”
“I was dedicated in Air and no I can’t teach you anything. All I know is that I have seen others Dedicated in fire, fly. Oh well I guess we walk until you figure it out.” Then Ollis turn and walked out the door as he was walking Volsung could hear him say, “The bill is on the end table I will be waiting outside for you.”
“ What a odd man,” Volsung said to himself then he looked at the bill and as Ollis had said, the place was very cheap. Then Volsung got dressed and gathered his thing's witch Ollis had gone though while he sleeping. This angered Volsung a bit, but as best he could tell it was all there. After that, he went and paid the clerk.
Then Ollis walked back in the hotel and said, “Well are you really to go?”
“Yes, I have all my things I think.” As he glared at Ollis, “Are you really to go?”
“Always, now we need to get started otherwise I won’t ever get this job over with.” So, the new company set off.
While they were in Ioty they took their time, but as soon are they were outside of the city Ollis kicked it into high gear offend having to stop for Volsung to catch up. And Volsung couldn’t understand this he was in the best shape of his life and this man around 40 by the looks of him was still in much better shape. “Come my grandmother can move faster than that.”
“Sure she can, but judging by you I don’t think your grand mother I normal woman,” said Volsung panting.
“Well this is about as far as I wanted to go anyways. So I suggest you learn how to fly that way I don’t have to march you around.”
Volsung didn’t say anything but he thought “Yes that way you can make me fly until I crash.” Still the more Volsung thought about it the more he liked the idea of being able to fly. So, spent the better part of the night thinking about how he could do it.
__________________
"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"
Posted by Black Mage on 11-10-2001 09:11 PM
Grath awoke the next day somewhere in between Civa and Akaros. He had been to Akaros once before but he had no memories of anything but Civa. He couldn’t turn back now. He had made his decision; even if it had been in a drunken state. Grath rolled over and vomited and tried to stand some time later. He fell over and tried to stand once again. He started to travel to Akraros. He still had a headache and his sack seemed heavier than usual.
Grath sat down and noticed that the sack moved. He drew his dagger and slowly opened the sack. Two rats flew out of it. Grath threw his dagger at them and skewered the fat one. As he was going through what he had left, he swore and cursed louder than he had ever done as he held up a loaf of bread that the middle was eaten out. He threw it out, retrieved his dagger and opened a small leather pouch to find some hob jerky. Chewing on the sweet meat as he walked down the path put him in some-what better mood even though he was so cold. The cloak did surprisingly little to shield him from the cold. He thought to himself that he might be getting a cold.
The city was dark and forbidding when he reached the front-gate. As he walked through a small stocky man bumped into him. Grath held his tong and apologized to the stranger and continued on. It seemed the shadows had eyes. He walked into a small inn purchased a small one-room apartment for the week. He figured that he would stay in town a few days. As he entered the room he set down his things took off the cloak and noted that the room was actually quite warm. He settled into the small room moving a few things around and went to bed.
__________________
Don't laugh it works
Posted by Orocia Agua on 11-10-2001 10:17 PM
Orocia slowly let go of Scarlet, sensing her discomfort. "Has it been that long since that voyage, Scarlet? Long enough for you to forget that storm, and your sea sickness?" Orocia smiled, looking up to Scarlet, who was taller than her. "Really, you couldn't have forgotten me!!" Orocia held her pleadingliy at the shoulders, then slid her hands over Scarlet's and held them, noticing the intricate black bands on her wrists.
"Hey, where'd you get these? They're pretty..." Orocia held up Scarlet's wrists.
"I... don't remember." Scarlet looked at the bands just as curiously as Orocia.
Orocia smiled at Scarlet, and laughed sweetly, "Well, you can forget about your jewelry. But don't forget about me!"
Scarlet felt awful for not remembering the girl's name, "Well, you look familiar..." But before Scarlet had time to finish her thoughts Orocia whisked her away to a more secluded area, where they wouldn't have as many eyes looking at them.
When Orocia felt sure that no eyes would care to look their way, she slid down the tops of her gloves low enough for Scarlet to see the tattoos, and slid them back up quickly for no one else to see.
Scarlet's eyes widened in recognition, "OH! You're that sailor! On that ship to New Dargent!"
Orocia lightly covered Scarlet's mouth,"Not so loud!!! These nobles would have a fit if they knew my background!" But she laughed again, "Had a little too much wine already, huh? It wasn't to New Dargent, it was to Noit. You were going to be dedicated! Anyways, how'd you do? And how'd you end up with that hunk?" Orocia giggled slightly, but stopped as she noticed the expression on Scarlet's face. She seemed confused. And if Scarlet had drank, Orocia didn't smell any alcohol or see a blushed face or feel slightly warmer skin.
"I... don't remember." Scarlet's face looked blank now.
Orocia looked into her eyes. She didn't look drugged. "How about we sit down?"
"Yes... Thank you." Now Scarlet's face began to look troubled.
Before Orocia could begin to think of saying anything else, she spotted an umistakable symbol on the back of Scarlet's left hand, which she held as they sat.
Orocia gasped quietly, "You did it! You're dedicated in Air! Oh, Congratulations! I knew you could do it!"
Scarlet's eyes again widened, but this time in surprise. "Dedicated?" And Orocia, beginning to wonder about Scarlet, held up her left hand for her to see.
"I... don--"
"You don't remember that either." Orocia's brow furrowed slightly with worry. But she looked away in thought, and put on a pleaseant face again. "Well, they say no one ever remembers the test, so I guess it's okay to forget that last one." Orocia faced Scarlet again,"But it's not okay to forget me. Before Scarlet could feel uncomfortable for not knowing Orocia's name again, she found Orocia giving her the warmest hug and heard her whisper in her ear, "My name is Orocia, in case you forgot that too."
Scarlet's face was a mix of wonder and embarrassment, and her eyes held a million apologies towards the girl she couldn't remember. She felt awful for not remembering someone so sweet.
Orocia stood up, and bent down to Scarlet, "How about you go outside with your date and get some fresh air? You're beginning to worry me... But try and see me later on tonight, okay? I hope you remember me by then!"
But Orocia said this so sweetly that Scarlet didn't feel as bad about not remembering. Orocia kissed her goodbye on the cheek and flashed another friendly smile Scarlet's way before returning to Rublicant. Even though she could not remember, Scarlet felt the same warm friendliness she received from Orocia when they first met on The Magnolia. She could only smile back, despite the uneasy feelings she felt.
"I think I'll ask Xarou about all this..."
Orocia gracefully returned to Rublicant and twirled into his arms, her gown flowing around her, as they went into another dance, the music at a soft, soothing, waltz.
"Who was that?" Rublicant looked down to Orocia.
"A girl I met on the ship that brought me to Noit. But she doesn't remember anything. It's so weird..." Orocia pulled herself to Rublicant and laid her head on his shoulder, feeling his arms tighten softly around her as they swayed slowly to the music.
"I think her mind has been tampered with... She seems to be normal, except for her memories. She's a charming girl, and she hates dull conversation as much as I do." Rublicant smiled.
"Yeah... I hope you're wrong about her mind being tampered with though. From what I remember, she's too stubborn for anyone to change her mind, anyways." Orocia lifted her head to look at him, into his eyes, and smiled back. She turned her gaze upwards, looking at the beautiful stained glass dome above them, the moonlight casting the images of myth and lore and history on the dancers below. Gorgeous, dimly lit chandeliers bordered it, adding to the romantic feel.
She felt Rublicant put his lips to her neck, and she closed her eyes, surprised at first but letting him go on. He brought his kisses to her lips...
She wasn't sure, but she thought she heard the sound of glass crinkling, as if about to break. But she didn't bother to look back up.
CUE: Rublicant, Scarlet, and Alexandros
Posted by Caliph Wyrdwyrm on 11-11-2001 01:18 AM
"Ah, one other matter... how we get into the party if we decide we want to." Caliph turned an envelope over to Indigo. "I ran into an old friend of mine, a clerk. He's very good with a pen. That's your invitation. It's not genuine, but nobody will know that." Now they were to the horse. "In this saddle bag I have outfits that should be suitable for both of us."
Indigo gave him an odd look. "You want to just walk in the front door?"
"Of course I do. High walls, a fence... no better way. You'll need to affect some disguise. But they're not expecting me anyways."
Caliph had now finally gotten to where he wanted to be. "And here is our other horse." Caliph handed a man some money and came out in short order, throwning two of the four saddle bags from one horse to another. "Shall we ride?"
__________________
They say confession is good for the soul. But what if you don't have one?
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-11-2001 11:11 AM
Her mind swam in confusion. How did the girl seem to know so much about her? For a moment she regretted not asking her to stay longer. If she knew something, Scarlet wanted to find out about it. She seemed so familiar…. More like a friend than a passing acquaintance. Xarou pressed her closer to him as they waltzed slowly in their section of the dance floor. She bit her lip wondering whether or not she should question him. He must have noticed because he asked.
“Is something wrong?” Scarlet looked up at him and whispered the first question that came to her mind.
“Why didn’t you tell me I was Dedicated?” Pretending to be surprised he answered.
“You didn’t know? I assumed you would’ve seen the symbol and-“
“How could I have known?! I don’t remember anything! If I am Dedicated then why can’t I use my powers? Aren’t I supposed to have powers!?” Her voice grew louder and began to quaver as tears threatened.
“Scarlet-“
“And what are these?” She asked holding up her wrists. The bands glittered eerily in the dim light. “Where did I get these?” A few couples turned their heads in their direction causing Xarou to become self-conscious. He seized Scarlet by her upper arm a little harder than necessary and forced her to continue the waltz. She forced herself to not cry out. She couldn’t show any signs of weakness now. Instead she looked him directly in the eye and asked one final question.
“What do you know?”
From up above the sound of breaking glass could be heard, but was left ignored by the quarreling couple.
CUE: Alexandros
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Alexandros Fatali on 11-11-2001 01:29 PM
Death of a demon
Alexandros secured a thin silk rope to one of the spires atop the manor house and secured it to several Balanian buckles that hung from his belt. He looked through the small portion of the stained glass skylight he had cracked and he could see the demon within, distracted, with the same woman as before.
"Time to work,"
Focusing his inner energies, he charged his revolvers with fire. Sighing, he then charged the Redeemer with Lightning. The guns appeared to burn with pale red flames, and the sword crackled with purple-black lightning.
He tugged the rope a few times, drew Indra with one hand and regulated the buckles with the other, and then jumped into the glass. The glass crackled under his weight, and then shattered. Dancers below him scattered out of the way to avoid the debris that had sliced Alexandros with many minor cuts. The rope went taut, and Alexandros released the restraint and fell the fifteen feet to the floor.
Rublicant stood defiantly, or foolishly in one corner of the room, everyone seemed to have their eyes on Alex at this point, except for an arguing couple that he saw out of the corner of an eye. The man seemed to seethe with a darkness. He would have to check up on him later.
"Demon! Perish in flame!" Alexandros shouted as he moved towards an angry looking Rublicant. He drew Ramuh in his left hand and began firing at Rublicant. The demon was able to avoid three balls of fire as they gouted from the revolvers before one caught him in the leg. His clothes burst into flame, and he screeched a demonic wail.
The Vampire, now engulfed in flame, as their flesh burns as readily as paper, rushed toward Alexandros. Having no time to properly holster his pistols, he tossed them to the floor and drew The Redeemer. By this point most of the audience had fled, save the one girl that had been by the demon's side, and a few noblemen.
"Help me, brave nobles! Help me slay this demon!" and he rushed to meet Rublicant near the center of the dance floor. Claws tore through his left sleeve and bit flesh, leaving yet another deep wound. The Redeemer slashed upwards through the flaming creature, and cut truely across the creatures chest, releasing a burst of lightning as it struck. The creature was blown backwards.
The nobles drew light Lunari weaponry and rushed to Alexandros' side. Rublicant rose into the air, and began to laugh, "You do not know my power!" The demon launched four small balls of fire at Alexandros, who threw himself to the side, but was struck in the leg by one of them, burning him in an irritating, painful way.
Alexandros stood eyeing the creature, then began to move slowly towards Ramuh and Indra. Just as he reached diving distance, the Demon swooped from the air to strike. Alexandros fell to his back, and speared the creature through the chest with The Redeemer. Blood spouted forth like an evil fountain, as a blast of electricity tore through the creature's backside. Rublicant writhed uncontrollably raking Alexandros with his claws, striking his protective armor many times, but catching his exposed arms several times and his face once.
The nobles rushed in three at once and added their swords to the Demon's flesh. Blood poured onto Alexandros, pinned beneath the creature, and with great effort, Alexandros pushed him to the side, and rolled to retrieve Ramuh and Indra. He got up, and moved to stand over Rublicant. The demon looked defeated. But Alexandros was not without compassion, even for the wicked.
"Wh-where is Orocia?" The demon studdered.
"The woman? You!," Alexandros pointed towards the girl in the violet dress, "Come here, the demon wishes to speak with you before I release him,"
"Orocia?" Rublicant's world was a haze of colors. How could this mortal have bested him?
"Yes, Rublicant?" She rested beside him.
"Take this pendant, and keep it close to you, it was my Grandfathers, there are papers in my desk at home. Here is a key. Take them and sign them," He struggled intensely to raise to an elbow.
"I will, Rublicant, I will," She spoke softly.
"Orocia?"
"Yes?"
"I loved you." He spoke, and began to slide back to the floor.
Alexandros kicked Rublicant's arm out from him, and blasted him four more times in the chest. His body re-ignited. Orocia screamed. Alexandros pulled The Redeemer from the Demon's chest, and stood back from him.
"By the creators light, I deal you into his hands for Holy judgement. May you fare well in your travels to the afterlife,"He solmnly spoke, grasping his Meshai, and then he dealt the final blow to the creature, by severing his head.
There was a flare of light, and the body turned to ashes. All that remained was a pendant with a swirling thunderstorm inside of it, and a key about the same necklace. His curved dagger rested there as well.
Alexandros wiped the combination of his and the demon's blood from his face, and sat upon the floor for a moment, removing strips of cloth from his belt pouches to bind his arms with. He changed out the cylinders on his revolvers, and holstered them, just as the enchantments were dissapaiting.
"My work here is done", he spoke, and he removed a small file from his pouches, and added another notch to his blade. Then he turned to go.
Cue: Orocia, if you want to talk to Alexandros, Or Scarlet, for the same reason. Indy and Caliph, you might pass him on the road, while he heads back towards Dargent, If ya like..
__________________
May the Creator shield you and light your path...
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-11-2001 03:33 PM
Horror welled within Scarlet as she looked at the blood bath in the center of the hall. Wasting no time, Xarou grabbed her by the elbow and began to pull her toward the closest exit, much to her protest. She could now see Orocia talking with the dying Rublicant as tears streamed down her face. Scarlet’s heart ached in empathy even as Xarou's voice whispered ominously in her ear.
“We’re leaving.” She looked at him in bafflement. Why didn’t he stay to help? What about Orocia?! Anger throbbed in Scarlet’s temples.
“Let me go!! She’s my friend!” Memories danced around the edge of her mind teasingly, almost coming clear, then fading into the mist once more. Xarou wrapped a strong arm around her waist and proceeded to drag her away from the gory scene. A dull heat began to pulse in Scarlet’s head. She couldn’t leave! Orocia needed her! Her eyes widened as the memory of her friend surfaced in an overwhelming wave then immediately retreated into oblivion once more. But it was long enough.
“OROCIAAAAA!!!!!!!!”
She looked up from her sitting position by the remains of Rublicant toward where the voice of Scarlet had come from.
But she was gone.
CUE: Orocia and Alexandros. Caliph and Indy, you may want to PM one of the three of us so you'll know what's about to go down since it will concern you.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 11-11-2001 09:23 PM
“What are you doing?!!” Xarou turned Scarlet to face him. He sensed her shrink under his stare.
“I’m trying to protect you! What if that man decided to kill more than just one noble?” Scarlet fell silent. He continued to stare down at her for several minutes, slowly allowing the meaning of his words to sink in. Silence.
Taking this as a sign of agreement he hugged her close to him and was startled to feel how stiff she was, like her entire body was seizing up. Her voice came out in a coarse whisper.
“Orocia.”
Looking down, he saw that the bands around her wrists had started to pulsate again.
What’s going on?!, he thought to himself. And then, he knew. She was trying to contest the power of the bands and summon her own powers. Bright light filled the narrow corridor, blinding Xarou.
She was trying to remember.
Like the first time, the light suddenly vanished and Scarlet crumpled to the floor in a faint, her mind weary of the internal battle. Picking her up, Xarou cocked his ear in the direction of the ballroom. He could hear the sharp staccato of women’s shoes on the stone floor behind him. Frowning, he moved quickly through the shadows to the coach waiting outside. It seemed he would have to rid himself of the little pest that Scarlet had called her friend. He now smiled and gently placed her inside the carriage, giving her a quick kiss on the neck before returning to the mansion. He hoped she wouldn’t be too weary from the effects of the bands by the time they arrived at his manor that evening. He had planned to continue the night’s celebrations long after the party had ended.
Inside the hall once more, he lurked in the shadows, waiting for the girl to appear.
He had a proposition for the Tiger Lily.
CUE: Orocia. Xarou's not going to be very gentlemanly with you. He sees you as a threat that must be removed. Therefore if you don't accept his ultimatum, watch your back.
__________________
"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."
The time now is 03:29 PM.
Copyright © Jelsoft Enterprises Limited 2000.
