Lunar: Illusions of Grandeur - Logs

Chapter 15 - "Eyes Open"

New Cast Appearing:
Storen as TheStoryteller, Various NPCs
Windstar as Seth

Session Start: Sun Oct 03 21:46:50 1999

<TheStoryteller> The sun is slowly rising over the horizon, casting a reddish glow upon the town of Horam. Several people are already awake, going through the morning routines, while others seek the ever important first meal of the day. :)

Training City Horam, Morning

<TheStoryteller> Tahn and Bree stroll the main street as several vendors are just opening their stalls and doors for the new business day.
<Tahn> ...Not much as far as food around here, is there?
* Bree frowns, looking around. "No.. not really... everyone must just buy produce..."
<TheStoryteller> A few eateries are turning over the chairs, and wiping down some tables. Several catch your eyes, but they are mostly seafood restaurants...
<Tahn> ...
* Bree smiles. "Hope you like fish... looks like that's all we have to pick from.."
<Tahn> Yech. ^^;
<Tahn> Fish...for breakfast?
<Tahn> Just...yech.
* Bree sweatdrops. "I'll take that as a no... food is food... doesn't matter what you eat for which meal..."
<TheStoryteller> There is one place that's a little different from the rest though. It has a large board outside proclaiming a special on scrambled eggs and OJ..
<Tahn> Hmm..
<Tahn> What's this? ^-^
<TheStoryteller> It looks really out of place in such an Eastern flavor town... ^^
* Bree reads the sign. "Well.. like I said, food is food.. and if you'll eat that.. its fine with me."
<TheStoryteller> The place has a couple people inside eating some muffins and eye-opening coffee. In fact the place is called the "Eye Opener."
<Tahn> Well... it's either this, sashimi, or seeing if the Aoiya has opened yet..
* Bree shrugs "I'm not real picky, so it's whatever you want..."
<Tahn> I'm paying, so I figured I'd leave it up to you. ^^:
* Bree raises an eyebrow. "Why're you paying? It's not like it's a date...."
<Tahn> I'm paying because I have the money.
<Tahn> If you want to pay, fine by me.
* Bree smiles. "You're asking a thief to give up a free meal? Not hardly..."
<Bree> Well... shall we go in then?
<Tahn> Oh well...
<Tahn> Why not?
* Bree smiles and nods, heading for the doors. "Why'd you say oh well?"
<Tahn> For the hell of it.
* Bree heads inside. "Okay... if you say so Tahn.." *looks around*

Horam, The Eye Opener

<TheStoryteller> Inside the store a waitress is groaning as she finds a check laying on a table with only a single silver beside it.. Other than that, the counter person is looking quite friendly, as he hums a little song while cooking some eggs.
* Tahn goes up to the counter. "Okay, what's the catch?"
<TheStoryteller> The guy looks up, adjusting his little hat. ^^
* Bree turns, leaning her back to the wall, watching the waitress. ^^;
<TheStoryteller> [Counter Guy] Oh hi.. catch? There's no catch! It's our special on Wednesday! :)
<Tahn> ...
* Tahn raises an eyebrow.
<Bree> So that's what today is... *smiles*
<TheStoryteller> [Counter Guy] 30 silver for the combo platter... sure beats sushi.. :)
<Tahn> Wow.. someone who thinks like me. ^_- I'll take two.
<Tahn> One for me and one for the lady behind me.
* Bree smiles and waves.
<TheStoryteller> [Counter Guy] Ok.. whatcha like to drink with that? We also have hashbrowns if you like. ^^
<Tahn> Hmm... Drink? What do you have? ^_-
<TheStoryteller> [Counter Guy] Coffee, Juice, Milk..
<Tahn> That it? Well, just gimme some of your strongest coffee. ^_^
<Bree> Milk is fine for me....
<TheStoryteller> [Counter Guy] Ok, sir.. I'll get right on it! Have yourself a seat somewhere nice.. oh and don't mind Thema. She just got stiffed by some weird girl.. ^^;
<Bree> Weird girl? *raises a brow*
<Tahn> Weird? How so?
<TheStoryteller> [Counter Guy] Yeah.. she acted like a real kid.. and kept asking for Heaven's Steaks or somethin'... plus she downed two specials in five minutes! ^^;
* Bree sweatdrops. "Oh.. -that- weird girl..."
<TheStoryteller> [Counter Guy] But then she left a really bad tip..
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> ^^; What was Emmi-chan doing here?
* Bree baps Tahn. "Having breakfast... geez.. you really are half asleep..."
<TheStoryteller> [Counter Guy] Well, she looked really awake, that's for sure.. go sit down and we'll fix you up. :)
<Tahn> That's why I need the coffee! :P
* Tahn finds a seat.
* Tahn looks back at Bree and notices her admiring the waitress's "Gainax Bounce" (tm).
<Tahn> Hey, get over here. ^_-
* Bree sits across from Tahn, looking around the place again.
<TheStoryteller> The counterperson goes to replace the coffee strainer and brew a new batch while calling various things out to the guy in the back kitchen..
<Tahn> (m) I've seen better, Bree. ^_-
* Bree clears her thoat, blushing faintly "<q> Geez.. just call attention to me would'ya?"
<TheStoryteller> [Thelma] Damn.. people don't know about service round these parts anymore..
* Bree points a finger across the table. "<q> You were looking too..."
* Tahn chuckles a little. "What can I say? I like them as much as you do." ^_-
<TheStoryteller> Thelma walks behind the counter muttering some not-so-nice things about kids these days.
<Bree> <q> Sssh... keep it down you idiot.. dont blurt that out...
<Tahn> (sweatdrop) Gomen nasai!
<TheStoryteller> A few moments later she comes out carrying the two plates of breakfast goodies, plus a milk and coffee.. she's practically juggling them like a seasoned pro.
<Bree> <q> It's ok.. just dont call me on it.. or mention it... that'll just draw attention to me...
* Tahn looks over at Thelma... and her two little friends. ^_-
<TheStoryteller> [Thelma] Here, you two. Couple a specials, white stuff, and a black wire.
* Bree's purposly not looking at her.
<Tahn> Thanks! ^_^
<TheStoryteller> She throws it on the table.
<Bree> Thanks.... *arranges the glass and plate to her liking*
* Tahn sucks down the coffee and practically inhales his breakfast. ^_^
<TheStoryteller> The thirtysomething waitress walks off, turning back to mutter something about frying someone's eyes instead of bacon.. ^^
* Bree eats at a normal pace, not looking away from the table "<q> I think she caught you looking Tahn..."
<Tahn> Oopsie! ^^;
<Bree> Hehehe... *eats the rest of her meal, not looking away from the table ^^;*
* Tahn and Bree finish their food, pay, and leave a nice big tip...
<Tahn> Fanservice pay. ^^;
* Bree sweatdrops. "Just makes up for Emmy's lack of tip..."
<TheStoryteller> Thelma looks at the money, swipes it from the table with a satisfied grunt, and goes back to serving some other people. You guess she's happy. ^^
<Tahn> And for my lack of discretion. ^_-
<Tahn> Anyways, shall we go back to the group?
* Bree smiles. "Sure... hope they're up by now..."

Horam, Aoiya Restaurant

<TheStoryteller> Most of the Aoiya is starting to rouse and get ready for the new day. Haylee, however, is still sleeping in a bit more..
* Scott has awakened again, and is back to the training hall, and his practice.
<TheStoryteller> Also, you notice Emili's bed is still made... she never slept in it last night...
* Johnathan is downstairs at a table, flipping through a book, as he seems to have been doing a lot lately.
* Scott finishes his practice and walks in on John. "Morning, Johnathan."
* Elrika is sitting on her bed petting Xavier as she's looking out the window, feeling the morning breeze refresh her.
* Johnathan glances up. "Hello, Scott.."
* Xavier jumps on Elrika.
<Scott> Did you notice that Emmi's gone? Her bed wasn't slept in all night.
* Elrika sets Xavier down on the bed as she walks out the door. "I think it's time to go downstairs, Xavier."
<Johnathan> Emili's gone...?
* Ishtar pokes her head into the living room downstairs.
* Xavier follow Elrika. "Ok"
<Scott> Yeah. Her bed wasn't slept in all night. I should know, I was up almost all night myself. Either training or talking to Bree.
<Ishtar> I can't find her anywhere...
<Johnathan> I don't sense her anywhere nearby... not that necessarily means anything, but..
<Johnathan> Hello, Ishtar.
* Elrika walks downstairs and notices the small gathering taking place.
* Bree walks in behind Scott. "Someone say my name?" *smiles*
<Scott> Morning, Bree-chan.
<Tahn> Heya, Scott-kun. ^_^
* Tahn just happens to be standing at the doorway. ^_-
<Bree> Morning. What are we talking about? *looks around at everyone*
* Ishtar bows to Tahn and Bree..
<Scott> well, we'd better hit the road before the rest of the Astorian household wakes up. It'll take an act of Althena to get gone if we don't.
<Elrika> Um..hello people. =)
<Scott> Emili's gone. her bed wasn't slept in all night..
<Ishtar> Actually, it's Emili.. she's missing.. :/
<Johnathan> Bree, Tahn.. hello.
<Tahn> Hmm.. Odd.
<Tahn> The restaraunt we went to eat at said they saw her too..
* Johnathan closes his book and slides it into his pack, standing up.
<Tahn> Unless there's some other looney going around town asking for "Heaven's Steaks"..
* Bree waves to Ishtar. "Morning Ishtar." *nods along with Tahn's words*
<Johnathan> So she's left us?
* Elrika walks up to Scott. "What's going on?"
<Johnathan> I... should we look for her?
<Scott> Emili's missing...
<Ishtar> What about tracking down Leon?
<Bree> Maybe she just went shopping? *shrugs*
<Elrika> o_O
* Johnathan frowns. "I don't want to sound callous.. but she's nearly gotten us caught or worse several times.. and she CAN take care of herself.."
<Scott> We don't have time. I'm kinda concerned about Leon. He's walked off alone into a nest of vipers..so we'd better go after him.
* Johnathan nods. "And there is Leon, yeah.."
<Elrika> But Emili, after all she went through..
<Bree> Well.. we could always split into groups.....
<Scott> She's strong enough to take care of herself, Elrika.
<Elrika> Don't you think we should look for her? She's so innocent and gullible.
<Johnathan> Some of us hunt Emili, the others follow Leon?
<Ishtar> Well, I think I will stay here with Haylee.. she still needs more rest rather than running off.. I'm sure I can find Emili around town.
<Xavier> Oh that's why it's so peaceful. Leon isn't around.
* Bree sweatdrops. "I just said that..."
<Scott> Too dangerous. The Rancor's Fang is too great in number.
<Tahn> Number has nothing to do with it...
* Johnathan chuckles. "I was responding to your suggestion, Bree.."
<Tahn> Leon could mow hundreds down in a minute if he felt the need.
* Bree giggles. "Oh.. thought you were just repeating it..."
* Elrika looks at Xavier. "Xavier, now be nice."
<Ishtar> I think Leon is in more danger now...
<Tahn> The problem, as I see it, is Ramon... Leon's sure to recklessly go straight after him and get his ass whupped..
<Johnathan> Leon could.... I think you overestimate him, Tahn. He's good...
<Johnathan> ..but not THAT good.
<Scott> Tahn, Bree, Johnathan, Elrika, we'd better go after Leon. Ishtar, catch up with us as soon as Haylee's able to travel, ok?
* Bree nods. "Emili's probably just making her rounds to all the places to eat..."
* Tahn looks to John. "You don't know how good he is."
<Scott> And he has followers that are cold blooded killers too.
* Jack walks out of his room, stretching and still sleepy. "*YAWN*....Hello guys...."
<Tahn> And others that are just tricky bastards.
<Ishtar> Morning Jack.. sleep well? :)
<Elrika> Morning Jack.
* Bree waves to Jack. "Morning.."
<Scott> Morning Jack. Get ready to head out. We're going after Leon.
<Johnathan> I know what I know, Tahn... and I know he's not THAT good... no offense to him.
<Jack> Like a rock.....hehe...
<Jack> Leo? Did he already run off?
<Tahn> Hatred heightens one's skills, John.
<Tahn> I know that firsthand.
<Johnathan> Heightens some, dulls others.
<Scott> Yeah. He went off alone after the Rancor's Fang last night, and Emili's missing too.
<Bree> Lets just go after him and argue about his skill level as we walk?
<Jack> Emili??
<Tahn> Emili. Batgirl.
<Johnathan> ...sometimes the dispassionate mood is the best... but that's a question for another time.
<Elrika> Problem after problem, we just seem to have no luck at all.
<Jack> Where would SHE go??
<Scott> Let's just move out, folks.
<Tahn> Heh, chill out, El-chan.
<Xavier> You think she followed him?
<Ishtar> Yes Jack.. Emili's gone.. but Tahn said she was around town, so I'm sure we're worring for nothing. ^^
* Tahn exits. "Do you want to come with, or sulk about missing party members?"
* Bree shakes her head. "She can't be too far.. that place we ate at wasn't open too long..."
* Scott starts out the door. "Right behind you, Tahn."
<Jack> Um...Okay then......
* Bree heads out the door. "Like I said.. she's probably shopping.. or eating more food..."
<Ishtar> Are you leaving with them, Jack? I'm going to stay here and watch Haylee...
<Elrika> Ummm, people where's Xavier?
* Jack is still in his PJs..."Whoops!" He runs back upstairs, gets changed, then heads outside.
* Ishtar giggles. :)
<Johnathan> Ishtar... if you and Haylee do decide to come catch up with us any time soon..
<Xavier> I'm right here!
<Johnathan> ..be careful, will you? I'm not sure what we're walking into..
<Tahn> Chill out... nothing's gonna happen to Haylee-sempai.
<Elrika> Oh, there you are silly.
<Elrika> So *smiles
* what are we all going to do?
* Johnathan sighs. "Nor am I entirely sure..."
* Elrika looks at the party.
<Scott> We're going after Leon....he left last night to pursue the Rancor's Fang.
<Ishtar> I understand John.. I'll be alright. And so will Haylee...
<Bree> I think we're supposed to be going after Leon... *sweatdrops*
* Jack is waiting near the entrance of the town.
<Xavier> Party?
<Elrika> Ok, then what are we all waiting for?
<Xavier> I say we look for Emili. Poor gulable child.
<Ishtar> Please go.. we don't know how far Leon is already. He may have already caught a ship at the Zen port...
* Bree heads towards the edge of town. "We're waiting for someone to move... so let's move!"
<Scott> Then let's get moving..
* Johnathan lowers his voice a little. "It's not you two I'm worried about right now... I'm wondering if... certain parties can be trusted to behave... rationally? Be wary when you approach.. that's all I ask."
* Scott starts out of town..
* Johnathan turns and leaves.
* Elrika sighs.
<Elrika> I just hope we don't run into no more god-like beings.
* Elrika begins to walk off.
* Ishtar nods. "Althena guide you, everyone.."
* Xavier jumps on Elrika.
* Elrika looks back.
<Elrika> You're not comming with us, Ishtar?
<Xavier> My paws hurt.
<Elrika> Then stay on my shoulder Xavier, but if you fall, it's not my fault.
<Ishtar> I have my own people to chase right now...
* Xavier wraps around Elrika's neck.
<Elrika> Well ok then Ishtar, we'll see you soon.
* Elrika walks off with the rest.
<Scott> See ya soon, Ishtar. Take care.
<Xavier> Ok, now I won't fall.
* Xavier yells, "Bye Ishtar!"
<Elrika> (I have to start getting used to the fact that Haylee linked everyone with Xavier...)
<Jack> Hey! What's going on!??
<TheStoryteller> You all gather by the town gates, and check you gear one last time before trekking southwards...

Katarina Zone West

<Scott> .oO(We're close. Very close..)
<Jack> Lessee...Axe, check....Okay, I'm prepared. *Smiles*
<Elrika> Ok I have my water in check, so that means...I'm ready. And you, Xavier?
<Xavier> I'm ready and waiting.
<Scott> Ready as I'll ever be.
* Elrika turns to Bree. "So do we have any clue on where to start?"
<Tahn> Z...zuh...
<Tahn> What was the name of that town again?
<Bree> We know where he's going... so it's a no brainer...
<Scott> I heard rumors that the major players in the Rancor's Fang are gathering in Zaback..so that's where we go.
<Tahn> Zaback. Thank you, Scott.
<Scott> No prob.
<Bree> Hehe.. I knew someone would remember the town name...
<Tahn> Rancor's Fang. Zaback. Leon will be there. That means we go there too.
<Jack> So to Zaback we go! *Starts moving*
* Scott starts walking south.
<Elrika> Zaback? A new place for me to see. *smiles*
* Elrika starts to walk off the wrong way. "Oops"
* Bree walks southward. "Don't think I've been there either..."
* Elrika runs to where Bree is going.
<Tahn> I have. Once.
<Xavier> That's a first.. Elrika wanting to go somewhere that's not her forest.
<TheStoryteller> Off you trek, the grassy hills passing under your feet, admiring the clear waters that frame the isthmus..
<Scott> So have I, in my investigation of the Fang...but I didn't get many clues from there.
<Elrika> Investigation, Scott?
<Elrika> The Church is interested in The Rancor's Fang?
<TheStoryteller> This road has been traveled a lot it seems, as you notice prints of wheels and feet in the ground underfoot.
* Bree smiles at Elrika. "Glad you decided to walk the right way..."
<Scott> My regiment was ordered to investigate them, but I have personal reasons to keep at it.
* Elrika smiles back. "If it wasn't for Xavier, I would have walked to Goddess knows where."
<Tahn> Scott was assigned to investigate the Fang's doings... Kash wasn't really quite the same as the rest of the church, but yeah. The Fang has gotten quite the attention.
* Xavier takes two bows.
<Xavier> No need to thank me.
<Elrika> Though I have never heard of them.
<Johnathan> They seem to be an oddly conspicuous gang, for one that's thrived like they have..
<Tahn> Why would we, ferret-boy?
<Elrika> Always a first time. =)
<Scott> As I said, though, I have a personal reason for wanting to go after them, though. Most of my regiment had already taken other posts.
* Xavier bites Tahn.
<Elrika> Xavier! Act mature please.
* Jack laughs at Tahn's misfortune.
<Bree> Say.. what is Rancor's Fang again? I haven't really been paying attention... *laughs a little*
* Tahn hands Xavier, still attached to his finger, back to Elrika.
* Elrika grabs Xavier. "Sorry..."
<Scott> It's a very powerful and organized gang of criminals, Bree....they've run rampant throughout quite a bit of this world.
<Xavier> I'm not.
<Tahn> Rancor's Fang. Big bad evil gang. Leon, Scott, and I want to see them dead. K?
<Xavier> Hey Tahn.
<Johnathan> How is it that the authorities haven't done anything about them?
<Elrika> A gang is a group of people like what we are, right?
<Tahn> They're always one step ahead.
<Bree> Thieves? Or bandits? There's a big difference.. Thieves go in quietly... Bandits blast thier way through...
<Tahn> They never leave tracks, and never do anything themselves.
<TheStoryteller> As you walk, a city starts to appear in the distance.
<Johnathan> Still.. there should be ways to track them.. if only magical ones...?
<Tahn> They HIRE people to do their dirty work.. case in point, me.
<Xavier> Land ho.
<Elrika> Good eyes you got there.
<TheStoryteller> Just then, Johnathan gets an odd sensation.. like a nervous reaction to something.
<Xavier> Oopz where not sailing.
* Tahn rolls his eyes.
<Tahn> Elrika, is he always like this?
* Johnathan blinks, looking around. "What was..?"
<Scott> Eh, you ok, John?
<Elrika> Well, not always.
<Bree> Usually the furball is worse...
<Tahn> Spiffy.
<Tahn> -_-
* Elrika sweatdrops.
<Johnathan> Something.. odd.
<Jack> I'm hungry...I never ate when we left.....
<Xavier> Hey you wanna get bit again?
<Scott> No time, Jack...
<Johnathan> I'm not sure what it is...
* Scott places a hand on the hilt of Misogi, just in case.
<Jack> Aww......
<TheStoryteller> John can't help but feel like when he uses his time powers..
* Elrika looks at Xavier. "Please, stop the biting."
<Johnathan> ..just an odd feeling... but it might be significant..
<Tahn> Don't you have something shiny to chase after?
<Xavier> Jack, bite Tahn. He taste like chicken.
<Johnathan> ..almost like someone was altering time?
<Elrika> Altering time..?
* Tahn looks back at John. "What?!"
<Scott> Altering time?
<Jack> Heheh.
<Bree> That can't be good...
<Tahn> Jikuu?
<Elrika> How can someone do such a thing?
<Tahn> I thought you were the only one who knew how to do that kind of thing, John.
<Bree> Well... I guess it could be used for good...
<Johnathan> I can, Elrika.. and I can't be the only one..
<Jack> Sorry lil' guy, canniballism's not one of my favorite pastimes....
* Bree blinks. "You can change time?!?"
<Johnathan> It was like.. a shockwave?
<Tahn> What?
<Scott> Do what?
* Elrika blinks in unison with Bree.
* Johnathan points east. "It came from that direction."
<Tahn> You mean like..
<Elrika> So I take it, you want to go east then?
<Scott> Well, east of here is the Zen Zone, and the port....
* Bree pokes at John. "Can you change time so people don't die?"
<Xavier> Well don't say I didn't offer you any Jack.
<Elrika> Good question, Bree...
<Johnathan> So people don't die....?
<Jack> I won't. ^_^
* Bree nods. "You got it..."
* Johnathan frowns. "I don't know.. I'll have to think about that. It might be possible.."
<TheStoryteller> You all see a brief flash of light to the east, furthering John's suspicions.
* Elrika smiles.
<Tahn> But would it be smart, John?
<Bree> If it is.. I'll give you anything you want...
<Elrika> Really? It might?
<Scott> Hmmm...
<Scott> Let's go east.
<Tahn> Think of the paradox that might come just from one person.
* Xavier looks east.
<Johnathan> Ok.. this needs to be checked out.
* Scott starts walking to the east.
<Tahn> I agree.
* Tahn rushes in that direction after Scott.
<Xavier> Hey, was I seeing things?
<TheStoryteller> There's a small grove of trees off the main path, but nothing else strange...
<Johnathan> Paradox, Tahn? I doubt it.. if the aging process could be stopped..
* Xavier chases Tahn.
<Tahn> No you weren't, ferret-boy.
* Bree looks at Tahn. "Do you really think I would care?" *starts after Tahn*
<Xavier> I'm hungry.
<TheStoryteller> Just then you hear a man shouting.
* Johnathan heads east, half brooding on Bree's suggestion, half trying to figure out what's going on.
* Elrika walks east.
<Scott> O_ox
<Tahn> I don't think Bree meant aging... I think she meant unnatural death.
* Xavier stops chasing Tahn.
<Bree> Yeah.. like changing time so my father didn't die... but, living forever would be nice...
<Elrika> Would it, Bree?
<Johnathan> Changing the past? THAT I couldn't...
<Xavier> Can any of you make out what that guy is screaming?
* Bree nods. "I think it would..."
<Elrika> Would you like to see your friends die?
* Jack thinks...."Living forever...?"
<Tahn> Oh, yes it would. Get to see everyone else die, while you cease to age..
<Elrika> While you live on...
<TheStoryteller> It sounds very closeby.
<Johnathan> ..I mean.. if you changed the past, there'd be no reason to change it, so you never would.. so you'd change it, but then you wouldn't.. et cetera.
<Johnathan> Living forever, though... hrm.
<Scott> Hmmm.....what could that scream be...
<Tahn> A barrel of laughs, Bree.
* Bree wiggles an ear. "No.. I wasn't listening to him really..."
<Jack> I wouldn't want it.
* Scott heads for the source of the scream.
<Tahn> ... It's.. a guy, Scott.
* Tahn heads after.
<Xavier> Hey if you can do that Why are we doing all of this?
<Bree> Eh? What're you talking about Tahn? *blinks*
<TheStoryteller> Turning a tree-filled corner, you meet a strange sight.....
<Tahn> It's called sarcasm!
<Xavier> Let's all take a trip to the future and see what happens.
<Scott> O_o
* Xavier follows scott.
* Bree gives Tahn an odd look. "Sure... whatever you say Tahn..."
<TheStoryteller> A man in very fine armor half hidden by a long flowing blue cloak is laying on the ground, looking a bit dazed. You can't see much of his face through the large golden helmet, but he seems to be quite powerful.
* Elrika walks slowly to the man.
<Elrika> Umm...excuse me mister?
<Bree> Lets just leave the guy be... looks like he's freaking out.... *steps away*
<TheStoryteller> There's a loud buzzing noise as well.. you can see that whereever he fell from, a nest of killer bees are not too happy..
<Johnathan> Oh dear..
* Scott draws his sword. "Let's get ready to rumble, folks."
<Tahn> This couldn't be any ordinary "freaking out", Bree... I felt the same thing John did... that wasn't any ordinary magic.
<Seth> Aw damn...
* Elrika looks at the man and then at the bees, and then at the party.
* Tahn pulls out a Shinobi Edge. "Right."
<Bree> All the more reason to leave him be, right?
* Elrika goes to tap the man on his shoulder.
<Tahn> Not if he's on our side, Bree.
<TheStoryteller> The swarm of bees loops a few times, coming into a formation and dives at him...
<Johnathan> No... not at all. I certainly want to talk to him..
<Tahn> Any addition helps.
* Elrika quickly moves out of the way of the bees.
* Seth gets up and pulls out a elegant silver sword with a massive golden hilt.
* Tahn blinks.
<Tahn> Whoa...
<Tahn> That sword's gotta be worth some money.
* Elrika falls to the ground and lands on her rear end.
<Scott> O_ox; His sword...what style of kenjutsu does he use?
* Bree rubs her chin, pondering the resale value.

COMBAT!

<TheStoryteller> >> Combat Round 1!
<TheStoryteller> >> Enemy front: Killer Bees A-E
<TheStoryteller> >> Enemy back: Killer Bees F-I
<TheStoryteller> >> Seth gets first strike! :)

<Seth> Come on little bee...
* Tahn falls back behind the odd man.
<Seth> I won't hurt ya...
<Tahn> Anybody have a battle plan?
<Seth> Really, I, just wanna be friends.
* Scott takes his stance. "How about we hit them hard, Tahn....you with me?"
<Seth> Aw fine!
<Seth> Take this!
<Tahn> Sure. Wanna try for any fancy moves, or shall we just go for power?
<TheStoryteller> The bees buzz ominously, darting around, looking for an opening in his shell..
<Scott> How about our wind/blade attack.
* Elrika gets back up and takes out her thorn whip.
<Tahn> That works.
* Jack gets "Barberella" ready.
* Seth holds his sword out above him, as it glistens and everything around the area goes black.
* Bree takes out her weapons, standing on guard.
* Seth thrusts his sword into the bee, pulls it upward, then follows up with a mile-high jump attack.
<TheStoryteller> >> Seth executes Whirlwind Moon on Killer Bee A! 24 damage! 25 damage! 23 damage!
<Jack> Say, now that's powerful....
<TheStoryteller> >> The swarms buzz angrily! The entire pack attacks Seth all at once!
<Johnathan> Not a bad strike...
* Xavier hides behind Tahn.
<Scott> Not a bad technique...
<Xavier> I hate bees.
<Jack> (W to Xavier) You're behind Tahn, why not take another bite? Hehe.
* Xavier looks at Jack.
<TheStoryteller> >> Seth is beset by stingers from all sides.. 32 damage!
<Tahn> Don't you dare, Jacko. You might find out what it's like to eat my dagger.
<Xavier> I like you.
<TheStoryteller> >> Bree's turn.
<Johnathan> Ah.. excuse me! You there, fighting the bees.. would you like some help?
* Seth holds his sword up in a defensive position just as he is hit.
<Seth> Ow ow ow!
<Jack> Hey Hey! I was only kiddin' hehe... *Runs back into posistion*
* Xavier bites Tahn, then points at Jack.
<Xavier> He told me to.
* Elrika looks at Xavier. "This is no time to be biting, Xavier, unless you want to get bitten by one of the bees! "
* Bree steps in, slicing at a bee.
<TheStoryteller> >> Bree slices up Killer Bee A in two shots.. 1: 6!, 2: 10!
<TheStoryteller> >> She swats one more with her ashy dagger.. Critical! 23!
* Bree rubs her head. "Man.. they're tougher than I thought..."
<TheStoryteller> >> Xavier's turn.
<Elrika> Good going Bree!
<Johnathan> Nice work nonetheless, Bree.
* Scott holds his blade ready to rush the bees, and then looks over at Seth. "Hey, your technique's pretty good."
<Tahn> Mind disloging yourself from my derriere, ferret?
* Bree smiles. "Thanks... I didn't really try though..."
* Seth widens his eyes then looks around spotting Scott. "Huh? Oh yeah... I guess so."
<Elrika> Come on Xavier, show them what you got!
* Johnathan laughs. "The last strike was quite impressive for not trying."
<Scott> Nice to see another master of kenjutsu around. Check out this technique.
<Seth> Ken-what?
<Scott> Sword technique, pal...
* Seth looks confused...
<Jack> Go for it, little guy!
<Seth> Oh....
* Bree smiles, embarassed. "Wonder how I'd do if I actually tried..."
* Xavier glows as he rushes the enemy line. "Feral Fury!"
<Seth> Yeah... I... knew that...
<TheStoryteller> >> Xavier charges in, clawing and scratching in a rage.. Killer Bee B takes 60 damage! Defeated! Killer Bee C takes 62! Killer Bee D takes 59! Killer Bee E takes 61!
* Elrika's jaw drops. "WOW!"
<TheStoryteller> >> Elrika's turn.
<Tahn> Heh.
<Elrika> Good going Xavier...
<Xavier> What where ya saying?
<Tahn> We may not get a chance to attack after all, Scott-kun.
<Elrika> I guess it's my turn, heh?
* Xavier stands on his hind paws and does a little jig.
<Scott> Maybe...go for the back row, Tahn.
<Tahn> Alright.
<Xavier> Oh My God...
<Xavier> I broke a nail.
<Jack> That was great, Xavier!
* Xavier cries.
<Tahn> You sound like an old lady, Xavier.
* Elrika begins to twirl her thorny whip at great speed, as the whip begins to glow brighter and brighter the faster it goes. The thorns from the whip then fly off in the hundreds as they shower the enemy. "Thorn Shower!"
* Xavier stops crying.
* Xavier jumps up and claws Tahn.
* Bree sweatdrops. "Maybe you should wear some armor, Tahn...."
* Tahn moves out of the way just in time to avoid said clawing.
* Jack is laughing uncontrollably.
* Tahn holds a still-thrashing Xavier to Elrika. "I think this is yours."
<TheStoryteller> >> The trees nearby start to swell and grow thorns as well, which fly up into the air, implaing the bees..
<Xavier> You wanna go one on one. Tahn?
* Seth sweatdrops, looking at the stooges behind him.
<Tahn> No thanks. I don't like ferret-kabobs.
* Xavier gets back in place.
<Scott> Never mind them. Concentrate on your opponent.
<Xavier> Where was I.
<Tahn> Besides, Elrika would get upset.
* Tahn sticks out his tongue.
<TheStoryteller> >> Killer Bee C takes 44! Defeated! Killer Bee D takes 42! Defeated! Killer Bee E takes 41! Defeated! The back row takes 40 a piece...
<TheStoryteller> >> Johnathan's turn.
* Xavier bites at Tahn's nut sack. "As you were saying Tahn."
* Elrika smiles and looks at Tahn. "How was that?"
<TheStoryteller> As Xavier goes for Tahn's naughty bits, a flying thorn gets him in the paw.. ^^
* Johnathan closes his eyes, balancing a ball of energy on his hand as faint lines of energy coalesce around it. "To use the universe itself against a bunch of insects seems a bit silly.. but.."
* Johnathan releases the ball, pushing it forward towards the remaining row of bees. "..but it'll do, I suppose."
* Xavier screams in pain.
<Elrika> Thats what you get, Xavier.
* Xavier limps away from Elrika.
* Xavier looks at Elirka.
<Xavier> How could you.
<TheStoryteller> >> Johnathan casts Twist..
<Tahn> I don't think we have to worry about the fight, Scott.
<Xavier> Damn, these Bees can take a whoopin.
<Elrika> You people have such strong magic. Maybe your magic would be able to help my forest later on. =)
<Jack> But of course. ^_^
* Xavier feels funny.
<Xavier> Hey Elrika, what was in those thorns?
* Xavier plays dead.
<Elrika> I have no clue, Xavier.
<TheStoryteller> >> Johnathan casts Mystic Vigor! He then Concentrates! Wisdom up 99! Twist is cast.. the space around the bees seems to compress inward, under intense gravity... all bees in the back take 172 damage!
<TheStoryteller> >> They fall down in pile of well.. dead bugs. ;)

Victory! 18 Xp and 76 $p gained.

* Seth lets out a breath of relief.
<Seth> Whew.
* Johnathan smiles slightly. "They were irritating little things.."
* Bree puts her weapons away and dusts her hands. "Guess I won't get to see how well I could do if I really tried..."
* Scott sheathes his katana. "And I was looking forward to the practice."
<Johnathan> Oh.. sorry, Scott, Bree..
* Xavier files his nails.
* Johnathan looks a little sheepish. "Should I have not..?"
<Scott> Forget it....
* Seth turns the face the group.
<Bree> Nah.. it's okay... there will be other things to bash.
<Seth> Hey, umm, thanks for helping me out with them.
<Seth> See ya.
* Xavier looks at Seth.
* Seth walks off.
<Johnathan> Not a problem..
<Scott> Wait a minute, pal.
<Johnathan> ..and hold on there!
<Xavier> Hey he can't hear me, can he?
* Seth stops and turns.
* Elrika catches up to Seth.
<Seth> What is it?
<Seth> You want a reward?
<Elrika> Who are you?
<Tahn> Not so.
<Johnathan> I.. felt something from this direction.. some odd magic... was it you?
<Tahn> We don't need your money...
* Elrika extends her hand outward. "I'm Elrika."
<Seth> I don't exactly have any money or anything.
<Bree> Hey! I'll take a reward!
<Tahn> We just want information. The magic, a name, anything.
<Tahn> Quiet, Bree.
<Xavier> I'm with Bree.
<Bree> Speak for yourself.. I'd love a reward... *smiles big*
<Elrika> Don't we have to be nice before we ask all these questions?
* Seth mumbles a second.
<Tahn> (vq) Quiet or I squeal.
<Seth> Actually.. ummm.. no... it-it wasn't me.
<Scott> Then do you know what it was?
<Johnathan> Who was it, then?
* Bree gives Tahn an evil look "<q> Tell and you die..."
<Xavier> Hey Bree, Yyou get him from the front and I'll take him from behind.
<Elrika> Why are you stuttering? Are you cold?
<Johnathan> It's.. important that I talk to whoever it was..
<Seth> I was walking down here, and then this flash hit me and those bees kinda got angry..
<Seth> Ummm, I have no idea who it was.
<Elrika> What kind of flash?
<Xavier> Bbbbbbbut Eeeeelllrikkaaa...
* Jack sits down. "I gotta watch this...."
<Xavier> Hehehehe.
<Scott> Could be that light we saw before the battle.
<Tahn> ...
<Seth> Kind of flash?
<Johnathan> Do you know what caused the flash?
* Bree folds her arms, very ticked.
<Seth> I think there is only one kind of flash I know of.
<Xavier> Gas?
<Seth> No clue what caused it, sir.
* Johnathan frowns. "This is most odd.."
<Johnathan> Oh.. by the way.. I'm Johnathan.. Johnathan Hylan. Who are you?
* Seth looks around for a moment.
* Bree sighs "<w to Tahn> Look.. I didnt mean that.. but, don't you dare black mail me..."
<Xavier> I'm Xavier but you can't hear me.
* Elrika smiles at the man. "And I'm Elrika. =)"
<Scott> I'm Scott Astorian, of the former Vane Magic Guard.
<Seth> Hmmm...
* Xavier jumps on Seth's shoulder.
<Xavier> I don't bite.
<Tahn> Tahn Igtenos, mage for hire.
<Elrika> And that, on your shoulder, is Xavier.
<Tahn> I doubt he can hear you.
<Jack> Jack Mystere, owner of the best mechanics shop in Meribia!
* Xavier looks at Tahn
<Xavier> Yeah, I knew that.
<Tahn> Uh.. Jack...
<Seth> Well, I'm Sethius.... Sethius FyreHawk.... . o O(Ooh that's a good one..)
<Jack> Yeah?
<Tahn> Didn't you say something about your shop being totaled?
<TheStoryteller> Hanging off the man's belt next to his impressive sword, is a strange shiny object, shaped like a dagger.
<Xavier> Don't get too close.. he smells like fish.
<Seth> But most people call me Seth.
* Elrika notices the dagger.
<Scott> Your sword technique was quite impressive, Seth.
<Jack> Well....It still needs a bit of sweeping and cleaning up, but... *smiles*
* Bree sighs, arms crossed, intentionally not having introduced herself.
<Seth> Nice to meet you gentleman and lovely ladies.
* Elrika points to it. "That's a nice dagger you got there Seth!"
* Johnathan frowns. "That dagger.."
<Johnathan> ..it feels the same way..
* Xavier crawls down Seth's arms and grabs the dagger, jumping off and going to Elrika.
<Tahn> The dagger...
* Seth's eyes widen and glances down at the dagger.
<Seth> Hey!
<Seth> Give that back!
* Xavier looks at dagger.
<Elrika> Oh I'm sorry, so sorry!
<Tahn> It's practically overflowing with that same energy...
* Elrika hands the dagger back to Seth.
<Tahn> You can feel it too, John?
<Johnathan> Yes..
<Scott> Funny, I don't feel it....
<Xavier> I was gonna give it back.
<Johnathan> Seth.. may I see the dagger? Only for a moment or two?
<Scott> But then again, I lost most of my magic when I defeated DarkStar.
<Elrika> Don't touch what doesn't belong to you!
* Seth grabs the dagger and ties it back to his belt.
<Tahn> Where did you get the dagger, Sethius?
<Seth> Errr, sorry Mr. Hylan but... I can't.
<Xavier> You always touch me and I don't belong to you.
<Scott> Eh...Seth, what school of sword technique did you learn? That skill of yours seemed familiar to me.
<Xavier> Hey John, I can get it for you if you like.
<Tahn> Don't, Ferret-boy. He already says he wants to keep it.
<Seth> Err uh...
<Seth> Well....
<Elrika> He's going to ignore you Xavier, he isn't linked to you.
<Johnathan> I.. can accept that, Seth... but that's a most unusual dagger you have there.
<Seth> Why are you people interrogating me?
<Xavier> I didn't say I was gonna keep it.
<Elrika> Intero...what?
<Tahn> Because you're evading the subject.
<Scott> I think I've seen that sword skill before, that's all.
<Elrika> You mean asking so many questions!
<Bree> I'm not doing a thing... I'm just standing here... *tightens her arms*
* Xavier looks at Bree.
* Seth glances at Bree for a second.
<Tahn> I just want to know where you got the dagger, is all. I feel some really odd things about it..
<Johnathan> Forgive us.. we were just a little.. intrigued.. by your dagger.
* Bree blinks. "What? I'm not doing anything..."
* Seth smiles for a moment.
* Johnathan smiles. "Bored, wandering mages.. what do you expect from us? It's something different and interesting.. we had to come check it out."
<Scott> Tahn, think back to when Emmi struck Gregory down in the sunken ruins. That skill of Seth's looked a lot like that attack.
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> You have a point there.
<Jack> Hey guys. Can we get a move on?
<Seth> Its not really a dagger....
<Xavier> <w to Bree> Hey Bree, how much you think that dagger runs for?
<Elrika> Then what is it?
<Tahn> You guys go ahead. Me and John are staying here... we want answers.
<Seth> More like... a key...
<Scott> What is it then? And where did you learn that sword technique?
<Tahn> Key?
<Elrika> A skeleton key?
<Xavier> Key for what?
<Seth> Yeah, its a skeleton key.
<Bree> Depends on what it can do... being odd just isn't enough..
<Johnathan> It'll open any lock?
<Elrika> What can of doors can it open? =)
* Seth nods.
<Seth> Any type of door and chest.
<Seth> It'll open it.
<Johnathan> And I can feel a sort of.. what.. time magic.. from it.. a key that alters reality...
<Jack> Okay then....I'll walk on ahead.....
<Tahn> ...
<Scott> You still haven't answered my question about your sword technique, Seth.
<Seth> My sword technique?
<Tahn> Scott... Don't worry about it. I'm sure Emili can tell us when we see her next.
<Seth> No one taught me it.
<Johnathan> Jack's right. It was nice meeting you, Seth... but we have to go. Farewell..
<Tahn> If she's not in her "Hey, ummmm" mode. ;)
<Seth> I made it up... my own technique.
* Jack starts walking....
<Xavier> Wait. He's mad strong.. let's take him with us.
<Scott> I see...take it easy then, Sethius.
<Tahn> Anyways..
* Johnathan waits for a moment, then nods politely and turns to follow Jack.
* Bree gives Seth an evil look, then walks off sitting near some trees, back to everyone.
<Seth> Oh wait, hey!
<Tahn> Pleasure meeting you, Sethius. Unless you want to come with us to kick the ass of the Rancor's Fang... ^_-
<Seth> Woah woah!
* Tahn stops.
* Seth runs up to them.
<Tahn> Hai?
<Elrika> Nice meeting you Seth, take care hope we meet again. Without the bees next time. =)
* Scott follows Johnathan. (w)"Something familiar about his technique....what could it be?"
* Xavier looks at Seth.
<Seth> You guys know Emili?
<Tahn> o_O
* Elrika turns back quickly.
<Scott> Yeah. She was traveling with us for a while.
* Johnathan looks back, startled. "Emili.. yes.. we.. why?"
<Elrika> Emili?
<Elrika> Of course we do!
<Tahn> You know the little hyperball?
* Xavier jumps on Elrika.
<Elrika> Do you know where she is by any chance?
<Seth> Hyperball, err umm yeah!
* Bree walks a distance away, staying with the group.
<Elrika> She's been missing for a few hours.
<Tahn> ... Come to think of it... you sound kinda like her.
<Scott> Since last night, actually.
<Seth> Actually, I was hoping you guys could tell where she is.
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> We last saw her in Horam...
<Scott> But we're headed for Zaback....
<Tahn> But I don't think she's there anymore.
<Seth> Horam, okay gotcha...
* Seth looks around.
<Seth> Which way is Horam?
<Scott> Northwest of here.
<Elrika> We're going to be looking for her after Zaback...
* Tahn deliberately points towards Zaback.
<Tahn> That way. ^_-
<Elrika> If you want to come with us.
* Elrika smiles.
<Elrika> We can share Emili stories. Not the bad ones of course.
<Elrika> (Like the ones where she tried to kill us!)
<Seth> Well... actually I'm kinda pressed for time so I kinda need to see Emili pretty quick.
* Bree walks along behind the group arms folded, obviously very ticked off. "I don't want him with us..."
<Johnathan> You should try Horam, then.
<Johnathan> That's where we last saw her..
<Xavier> He's Emili's sugardaddy.
* Elrika hears Bree.
* Scott whispers to Bree. "Something about him doesn't set right with me too. I don't know what it is."
<Xavier> I was wondering where she got all that extra cash from.
* Elrika walks up to her. "What's the matter?"
* Seth glances at Bree again.
* Bree whispers back to Scott, "The @#@#$ tried to charm spell me... I could feel it..." *curses him and his entire family under her breath*
* Jack is walking, whistling a little tune.....
<Seth> .oO (Hmmm, it's not working.)
<Scott> (w) Well, let's get moving again.
* Scott starts back on the road to the Zen port.
<Tahn> ...
<Elrika> What did you say Bree? He tried to do what to you? =) *smiles at Bree*
<TheStoryteller> Bree is too irate to even look back at Seth.
* Bree narrows her eyes at Seth. "Try that again and I'll slit you ear to ear..."
<Johnathan> ..what did he do?
<Tahn> What are you trying to do to us, Seth? I think there's more to you than meets the eye...
<Xavier> Hey Bree, let me get that key first. We may need it.
* Seth disappears into the forest.
<Tahn> ...
<Bree> He tried to @#$@#$ use a charm spell on me!! *fumes*
* Elrika walks up to Seth. "Excuse her Seth, this isn't one of her best days!"
<Johnathan> He....
<Johnathan> ..wow, that's low.
<Tahn> (vq) We all know he wouldn't be able to charm you, ne?
<TheStoryteller> Elrika can't quite find his trail.
* Xavier follows Elrika.
<Scott> Sounds like a version of the Shin no Ippou.
<Bree> Son of a bitch.. I'll kick your ass next time I see you!!! *shakes a fist in his last direction*
* Tahn starts back towards Zaback.
<Xavier> Who would want to charm Bree?
<Scott> Using a person's own spirit to try to influence another....
<Tahn> Let's go.
<Elrika> Dag nabit!
<Johnathan> It's just plain wrong, Scott..
<Elrika> Calm down, Bree...
<Scott> I know...very few people use that technique...
<Tahn> Why should she?
<Johnathan> ..I'm with Bree on this one.. anyone who would do that..
<Tahn> If I tried to charm you, you wouldn't feel to happy, would you, El?
<Johnathan> ..next time we leave him to the bees.
* Bree glares at Xavier. "Noone would... but that's cheap trick..."
<Xavier> I say we skin him alive, what ya think?
<Xavier> Besides, I'm hungry.
<Elrika> Charm me?...
<Tahn> I think you should pipe down, ferret-boy. And try to bite me again you'll deal with my dagger.
* Jack has walked far ahead from the rest of the group and hasn't really cared to notice...
* Tahn runs ahead to catch up with Jack.
<Elrika> Well...(vq) no man has ever tried anything for that matter.
<Scott> I don't trust him. There was something dark behind his sword strikes...yet strangely familiar.
<Xavier> Ok that's it. Me and you. Let's go, chicken-tasting man.
<Johnathan> And that 'key' of his...
<Xavier> Come on, pigeon!
* Bree storms off towards Jack. "Let's just get some distance between us and that insecure bastard..."
* Tahn rolls his eyes.
<Johnathan> Hell, _I_ make me nervous, doing what I do... I don't like the thought of an object doing it..
* Xavier sneaks up on Tahn and bites him.
<Scott> Eh?
<Johnathan> Just add him to the list of people we'll hopefully never bump into again any time soon..
* Tahn pokes Xavier with the dagger in warning
<Xavier> Ouch that hurt.
<TheStoryteller> As you all walk off, you don't notice a shadow floating in the air behind you.

Katarina Zone West, Midair

* Seth smirks a little.
<Seth> They know her...
<Seth> I wonder though...
<Seth> Why didn't my power work on that girl...?
<Seth> And...
<Seth> How did that guy feel the Astral Key's power?
<TheStoryteller> The cloaked visage of Seth stretches out two wings in thought...
* Seth pulls out the key and looks at it.
<Seth> Hmmm...
<Seth> Why didn't I teleport to the Star Tower?

Katarina Zone West

* Scott looks back to the road ahead. "It could have only been the clouds, but I had this strange feeling like we're being watched."
<Tahn> I know..
<TheStoryteller> The trip down the road proceeds without further incident.
* Elrika closes her eyes.
<Tahn> You think it's Seth? I still kinda feel that same energy that that key had... don't you, John?
<Bree> It's probably that insecure freak again...
<Johnathan> There was something about that guy..
<Elrika> The trees are telling me the same thing Scott.
<Scott> I know...a familiarity about his sword skills, a dark aura around him. Something's not right about that guy.
<Johnathan> Even more about his 'key'..
<Bree> Gee... what was your first clue?
<Xavier> He's bad people. When I jumped on him, I got bad vibes.
<Tahn> ...Wait..And how did he know about Emili?
<Johnathan> There's something about him indeed.. why does he have so powerful an artifact.. and why did he try to impose a bit of his will on Bree..?
<Scott> Think he could have been an emination from Zeio's consciousness?
<Tahn> I don't think he did it just to Bree... Elrika seemed somewhat charmed by his presence too...
<Xavier> Hey I HAD the key.. Something told me to grab it, but Miss Goody-goody-two-shoes over here had to give it back.
<Bree> Gee.. I feel so... special... *grumbles*
<Tahn> Stay frosty...
<Johnathan> Whatever the case, he wasn't strong enough to do so.. you obviously didn't fall for it, Bree.
* Tahn smirks semi-evilly. "Bree-kun?"
* Elrika goes next to Bree. "Bree...do women need men in their life?"
<Xavier> Hey, I guess his power works only on women, no offense Bree.
<Bree> Wish he hadn't picked me... now I'm pissed off...
* Bree beats Tahn hard, "And I really don't need you calling me that!"
* Xavier looks at Elrika.
* Tahn grabs the ferret. "Hush, ferret boy."
<Xavier> Hey, what I do?
* Bree blinks at Elrika. "No.. I don't think so... none like that freak back there at least..."
<Scott> Well, at least he didn't succeed in charming you, Bree-chan. I don't trust that bastard as far as I can throw him..
<Tahn> Don't say something like that about Bree-chan.
* Elrika looks at Bree. "I feel like it's missing in my life. Don't you ever feel you need a man? Is this normal?"
* Bree raises an eyebrow. "What're you talking about?"
* Xavier looks at the ground and walks away slowly.
<Elrika> I mean, I feel so...lonely in life.
* Xavier curls up by a tree.
<Johnathan> Ok.. today is officially weird.
* Tahn butts in, to..uh.. save Bree's butt. "We all need someone to love."
<Scott> You're not lying, John.
<Elrika> Everyone has something with someone...
<Elrika> Tahn and John want Haylee...
* Tahn sweatdrops.
<Johnathan> ..hey now, Elrika.
<Tahn> .oO(Bree too...)
* Scott looks at the picture he carries with him. "You're right about that, Tahn."
<Elrika> Haylee wants goddess knows who!
* Xavier looks at Elrika.
<Elrika> And me..I'm alone.
<Bree> I'd rather be alone then dumbly charmed by that freak...
* Elrika begins to tear. She wipes them away. "I'm sorry."
<Elrika> Enough about my life, let's continue.
* Xavier gets depressed.
* Elrika quickly looks at Xavier and notices him staring at her. She smiles as she blows him a kiss.
<Scott> .oO(The minute we get to Zaback, I swear......)
* Bree pats Elrika on the back lightly. "It's ok.. just keep looking..."
* Tahn notices Scott tensing up and clenching his fists.
* Scott keeps going to the port.
* Xavier looks away from Elrika and walks away.
<Tahn> Whoa, Scott... wait until we get there, okay?
<Scott> I'm fine, Tahn.
<Tahn> Oh, sure.
<Elrika> I'm sure the perfect man is out there for me. =) And I'm sure he's out there for you as well Bree!! =)
* Elrika continues to walk.
<Tahn> You just look like you're about to rip somebody's freaking HEAD OFF!!
* Bree grumbles. "Yeah.. I bet."
* Scott puts the picture back in his pocket. "Only Nasch's. No one else's."
<Tahn> I'm sure Ramon would be nice to maim a little, too.
<Elrika> Hey, why did Xavier walk away like that?
<Johnathan> Ok, ok.. everyone.. calm down. Or at least pretend to try to, in a couple people's cases..
<Tahn> Uh..
<Johnathan> Going into this all pissed off or depressed isn't going to help..
* Xavier walks alongside the party all quiet, as he glances at Elrika and then looks back down.
<Tahn> I... No offense, El... and as wrong as it may sound..
<Tahn> But I think Xavier may just like you. And I don't just mean as a friend.
<Elrika> Yes?
<Scott> I'm not pissed off, Johnathan. Just remembering things.
<TheStoryteller> Jack, being a head of the party, catches a good glimpse of the Zen Zone. It's hard to believe it used to be an arena several decades ago... as it now is mostly a haven for traders and other men of the sea.
<Elrika> What? No! Come on, me and Xavier are friends for life!
* Bree sweatdrops. "That's an odd match..."
<Jack> Wow.....
<Tahn> Friends can still be... never mind.
* Scott catches up to Jack. "To think that this used to be the site of an annual martial arts tournament."
* Xavier gives Tahn an evil look.
* Jack notices the Zen Zone area......
<Xavier> Still be what?
<TheStoryteller> Most of the town is one big harbor, as well as numerous refineries and warehouses that loom over it.
<Tahn> Never mind. I don't wan't ferret teeth marks in my arm.
* Elrika shakes off Tahn's comment as she continues the walk.
<Scott> The last one to win the tournament went on to help defeat Zophar...
* Xavier jumps on Tahn's shoulder.
<Tahn> Scott, you mean Jean-sama?
<Scott> Yeah, Tahn, I do.
<Xavier> I'm not going to bite you.
* Bree walks along, breathing deeply to calm herself.

Zen Zone Harbor

<TheStoryteller> Not many of the sailors and workers pay much heed to you, as they are busy loading, unloading, and repairing ships..The sea air does smell good, though.
<Scott> Maybe the harbor master would know when the next ship for Zaback leaves.
<Xavier> (w to Tahn) Is it that noticeable?
<Tahn> Maybe one hasn't left yet.. and we'll be able to find Leon here, Scott.
<Scott> Who knows.
<TheStoryteller> You reach a square of sorts... you can go 4 directions to the main spots in town.
<Tahn> (m to Xavier) No... I'm just somewhat perceptive.
<Xavier> (w to Tahn) Thanks for not telling her.
<TheStoryteller> The Harbor is a bit south, while to the west is the Lovelace Engine Company's Main Offices.
<Jack> Okayyyyy.....Which way to go......
<TheStoryteller> East is the watering holes for the ever infamous sailor's tastes..
<Tahn> (m, Xavier) Even if I did, she wouldn't believe me... it'd be something kind of hard to grasp, you know...?
* Bree raises an eyebrow. "Lovelace? That's an odd name for an engine company... sounds more like a dress shop..."
<Tahn> Hmmm.
<Scott> There's the cantina. Might have some information there that could be useful.
<Xavier> (w to Tahn) Sorry for biting you so much.
<Tahn> If anybody needs me, I think I'll be off to the bars. After the past few days, I need something that could knock out an elephant.
<Tahn> Heh, no prob.
* Elrika puts her index finger on her bottom lip. "I say we go...viewing!"
<Scott> Viewing? You mean sightseeing?
<Elrika> Hey can I go too Tahn?
<Elrika> Sightseeing?
<Bree> Where ever we go.. I don't want to be alone... not with that weirdo out there...
<TheStoryteller> There's a slim path north that leads to an observation deck.
<Elrika> No! I want to go Viewing!
<Xavier> I'm with Tahn. I need a drink.
<Jack> Hmmm....Yeah, the bar sounds fine with me!
<Tahn> ...Uh, I don't think you'd be the best person to go to a bar, El... ^^;
<Scott> I'll stick with Bree.
<Xavier> Tahn, do you mind if I join you?
<Elrika> Oh ok.
<Bree> Good.. I'd rather have a swordsman on my side against that weirdo...
<Tahn> And, uh.. Xavier... I don't think they'll understand if I tell them that "the ferret needs something to drink".
<Scott> Hey, it might be good practice for facing Nasch.
<Johnathan> Scott, Bree, mind if I come along?
<Elrika> Then Bree, I'm with you! *walks up to Bree*
<Scott> The more the merrier, John.
<Jack> Oh C'mon Tahn, let him join us.
<Elrika> Wait..
<Elrika> Are you going..viewing?
<Bree> Just order two drinks.. and just give one to Xavier.. they won't say anything to a paying customer.
<Xavier> Oh yeah.. I forgot I'm not human!
* Xavier runs off.
* Tahn sweatdrops.
<Tahn> Never mind.
<Bree> Sure John... not sure what we're doing.. but the more the merrier..
<Jack> Hm....
* Bree shrugs at Elrika.
<Elrika> Well, then I'll...
* Elrika hears Xavier's comment and laughs. " Of course you're not human, silly! You're a ferret...Xavier? Where you go?"
<Scott> Let's head to that observation deck.
<Jack> Ah well...Let's go Tahn.
<Elrika> Well, I'm going to go viewing around the town.
<Tahn> Me and Jack will meet you there, Scott.
<Elrika> I want to explore!
* Bree nods. "That's fine with me."
<Scott> Ok.
* Scott starts for the observation deck.
* Bree sticks with Scott, looking around suspiciously.
* Tahn and Jack head off to the nearest bar. ^_-
<Elrika> Well I'm off, there has to be some exciting things to do here!
* Johnathan walks along with Bree and Scott. "Bree.. are you all right?"
* Elrika heads to the town square.
<Scott> Are you ok, Bree-chan?
* Xavier crawls into hole.
<Bree> Not really.. I'm still ticked off.. but I'm not as bad as I was...
<Johnathan> Tell you what, Bree... if he tries a spell on you again, I'll give him one that he can worry about.... well.. that's if you haven't already shredded him.

Zen Zone Harbor, Observation Deck

<TheStoryteller> John, Scott, & Bree make their way north of the square, and after climbing a set of stairs, find them selves on a platform over looking much of the town.
* Johnathan smiles. "You DO move faster than I can cast, after all.."
<Scott> Or if I haven't cut him to pieces, Johnathan.
<TheStoryteller> There are a few binoculars that cost a silver each to use.
<Bree> Feel free to blast him.. if he's as powerful as he looks.. then I doubt I could do much...
<Scott> Now this is quite a view.
<Bree> Though.. I'd rather you just blast him next time he stuck his head out...
* Johnathan grins. "Ah, but I AM faster than you, Scott.."
<Johnathan> Well.. it's a thought, Bree..
<Scott> I know that, but I would love to test my sword technique against his.
<TheStoryteller> You see many ships undergoing repairs.. even a few of Virtue's own navy.
* Johnathan loses the smile, looking serious. "I don't like the thought of someone who wanders around trying cheap tricks like that.."
<TheStoryteller> However, there is only one or two, considering the church isn't very dominant here.
<Scott> Not much of a presence from Virtue's Navy...
* Bree folds her arms "I REALLY don't like the idea....."
<Scott> Neither do I, folks...
<Bree> If I wasn't so stubborn.. he would have had me falling all over him... and that pisses me off... *balls a fist at her side*
<TheStoryteller> The Lovelace Engine Company skyscraper towers over most of the port... you assume they must own a large part of the operations here.
<Scott> That tower....must have cost a fortune to build..
<Johnathan> I'm glad to see you had the strength of will to resist it and recognize it for what it was, Bree.. I'm most impressed... plus, now we know.
<TheStoryteller> Over on one of the docks you see a few people getting into a little scuffle over something...
<Bree> I'm just really glad it didn't work... that's just another form of rape in my eyes....
<Scott> Wonder what's going on there?
* Johnathan thinks about that, his eyes slowly hardening. "You're right.."
* Scott points to the scuffle on the docks.
* Bree looks down at it. "Looks like someone else isn't having a good day..."
<TheStoryteller> It's mostly a single man being held back by some others... he looks very familiar.
<Bree> Anyone want to bet that may be Leon?
* Scott puts a silver into one of the binocs and looks down there.
<Scott> I'm looking.
<TheStoryteller> The machine hums to life as the silver goes in. Scott gets a better view. Sure enough, it's Leon.
<Scott> Sure enough, folks...it's Leo.
<Bree> Aww.. you should have taken that bet.. *smiles*
<Bree> I'd be a few silver richer right now...
<Scott> Let's get down there..
<TheStoryteller> Before he can watch further, Leon breaks away, throwing someone off the docks, and stampedeing off to the repair area farther down. You hear a whole lot of obsecenties wafting your way. ^^
* Bree nods. "Yeah.. before he gets himself in jail..."
<Scott> He's about to do something completely stupid. Let's go.
* Johnathan nods. "Indeed.. lets go."
* Scott starts toward the dock.

Zen Zone Harbor, Tavern Row

<TheStoryteller> Tahn and Jack travel down the street leading to the pride of the town... the tavern row. With names like the "Salty Dog" and "Men of the Sea", you really get a bad feeling about the kind of patrons in there..
<Jack> Alright...Let's get started...
<Tahn> ...
<TheStoryteller> In fact one guy stumbles out with a black eye, and a piece of glass in his head. :P
<Jack> ....
<TheStoryteller> [Sailor] Heeey.....c'mon...sweety...eeeehhh....
<Jack> Let's go into that one....
<Tahn> O_o
<TheStoryteller> He falls down into the gutter. ^^
<Tahn> Let's... not.
<Jack> Okay...
<TheStoryteller> One of the places looks pretty respectable. It's "The Captain's Lounge". The wood trim gives a distinctive look.... and there's no obnoxious patrons coming out from it. :)
<Tahn> This'n looks good. ^_-
* Jack looks at the sign... "Looks, sounds...*sniff
* and smells decent...."
<TheStoryteller> A hanging sign proclaims "Best Mead in Greater Marius".
<Tahn> And it's got a reputation, or at least thinks it does. ^_^
<Tahn> So, shall we go in?
<Jack> Well, let's take a look at their menu.
* Jack walks on inside.
<Tahn> We'd.. have to go in to do that, baka. ^_-
* Tahn follows.
<Tahn> Just remember.. you're paying for your own drinks.
<Jack> I know I know, don't worry.

Zen Zone Harbor, The Captain's Lounge

<TheStoryteller> You both walk in and aren't disappointed... the place is full, but not overbearing. Some music plays from an old jukebox.. a jaunty seafaring tune. The bartender looks at you, wearing a red tricorne hat and a patch over his eye.
* Jack takes a seat at a barstool.
<TheStoryteller> [Barkeep] Aye.. welcome to the Captain's lounge mateys..
<Tahn> Hmm.
* Tahn sits down next to Jack.
<TheStoryteller> [Barkeep] I be Morgan, proprieter of this here fine establishment.
<Capt. Morgan> Ye land lubbers like a taste of our fine mead? It be real good goin' down after a hard day swabbing the decks..
<Tahn> Only if it's the strongest you got. ^_-
<Jack> Yeah, I'm interested in trying your "Suicide Special"....
<Tahn> I'd personally like your "Frontal Lobotomy"... Wonder if they're better here than they are in Meribia.
<Capt. Morgan> Aye, of course it be the strongest! Maybe it'll be the suicide of ya if you like it too much.. hehehe..
<Tahn> Heh. ^_^
<Jack> Yeah, that's what I'm expecting in a drink right now. *Smiles*
<TheStoryteller> Just then, the door busts open, a man dripping wet coming in.
<TheStoryteller> [Sailor] That frickin bastard! I can't believ' him!
<Tahn> Eh?
<Tahn> Who?
<Tahn> I'm sure me and my partner could help you out there. ^_-
<Jack> What's going on here?
<Capt. Morgan> Ye look like ye was swimming with the sharks, matey.. who made ya wlak the plank, eh?
<TheStoryteller> [Sailor] I was just keeping this Blackfire guy from pushing the boss around, and he shoves me into the drink! OO! I'm gonna kill 'em!
<Tahn> B...Blackfire?
<Tahn> Ugh... Leon's here.
<Jack> Leo.....Again?
<TheStoryteller> [Sailor] What.. you know that filthy swab?
<Tahn> {to Morgan} Give me a double of whatever you were going to give me.
<Jack> That guy's gone rabid, I'm telling you!
<Tahn> Acquaintence.
<Capt. Morgan> Aye...
<Tahn> As much as I'd like to avoid him, we seem to keep running into each other.
* Capt. Morgan slides the two men some drinks, and tosses some Rum to the sailor.
<Jack> Every time we see him he seems to get more and more violent...
<TheStoryteller> [Sailor] No kiddin'.. you're lucky I ain't be getting violent on you right now..
<TheStoryteller> [Sailor] I suggest you take your friend out of here before he gets himself killed.
<Tahn> Friend?
<Tahn> Who said he was our friend?
<Tahn> I'd much rather have never met the idiot.
<TheStoryteller> [Sailor] Right.. well he went down to the repair dock in a fit after he found out the ship to Zaback was full.
<TheStoryteller> [Sailor] That pushy sonof...
* Tahn rolls his eyes.
* Jack takes a sip from the alcoholic beverage and is almost blown backward. ".....Aye!!!! Good stuff....."
* Tahn swigs his drink down in a flash, with little to no ill effects, and slams the glass on the table again. "Gimme 'nother."
<Capt. Morgan> I told ye I treat me mates right! Hargh! ^_#
<Jack> Heh, you can expect a tip for that.
<TheStoryteller> Tahn is handed another.. possibly even stronger than the last.
* Tahn swigs it down... and this time he feels it..
<Tahn> Damn.. strong stuff. Thanks. ^_^
<Jack> Next time we meet Leo, we'll have to knock some sense into that thick skull of his....
<Tahn> Yeah. Tell me about it.
<Jack> I would, but it would be a long story....
* Tahn puts the glass back on the table. "Another."
<TheStoryteller> The sailor guy downs the rum bottle pretty quickly.
<Capt. Morgan> Aye, mate.. but ye be feeling it in the morning..
<Tahn> Trust me... I want to.
<Tahn> I've had a hell of a month.
* Capt. Morgan produces another drink for the drunken scholar. ^^
* Tahn gulps this one down, but this time a little slower. ^_-
<Capt. Morgan> Say, mates, you hear the lastest gossip?
* Jack finishes up the "Suicide Special"......"Not Bad, no side effects yet, but I'm sure I'll be comatose for a couple of days..."
<Jack> I'm listening.
<Capt. Morgan> They say the 13th regiment o' the Virtue guard be sailin' to Zaback.
<Tahn> (slightly slurring) 13th regiment?
<Tahn> Isn't that Zlyk's men?
<Jack> Great....more trouble....
<Capt. Morgan> That's the one, bucko! It be lead by Adam, quite a nasty guy there with his hefty sword..
<Tahn> Zlyk... the Fang... Leon... this couldn't get much worse now, could it?
<Capt. Morgan> But I hear they even have women in his division too, eh? They be fiesty ones, I bet!
<Tahn> I have the feeling that Zaback is gonna end up a little itsy bitsy pile of rubble in a week.
<Capt. Morgan> Too bad I hear that some o' the mates there be a few riggings short of a mainmast.
<Tahn> Yeah... including Zlyk himself, from what I've seen..
<Jack> They also have idiots on board? That's rich....
<Tahn> Strong guy, but a tad unglued in the head.
<Capt. Morgan> You seen that beast? They should lock that lollyganger in a cage and throw him in Davey Jones' Locker, I say..
<Tahn> Yeah... but nobody short of the White Knight Leo himself would have the skill to do it.
<Tahn> That guy's a mean fucker with an ax.
<Capt. Morgan> Anyway mates, another round?
<Jack> No thanks. I want to feel my hangover.
<Tahn> Sure.
* Tahn drops 50 silver on the counter. "I trust this is enough to pay for all of it?"

Horam, Aoiya Restaurant

<TheStoryteller> Meanwhile, back at Horam, Ishtar comes back inside the Aoiya after searching for Emili while trying to remain inconspicious as possible..
<Ishtar> I don't get it.. everybody's seen her, but nothing.. I hope Emili's alright..
<TheStoryteller> In Haylee's room, a figure looms over her sleeping form, studying her a second.. ^^
* Haylee's hair is shrewn over the pillow, and she's sleeping soundly...
* Seth smiles.
<Seth> Hmmm..
<Seth> What a beautiful young lady....
* Haylee shifts a bit in her sleep.
* Seth apporoaches the bed, trips on Haylee's shoes and stumbles and lands his face on Haylee's lips.
* Haylee eyes snap open! O_O
* Seth's eyes widen.
<TheStoryteller> Haylee sees a black haired young man kissing her. o_o
* Haylee slaps him HARD across the face!
* Seth flies across the room.
<Haylee> AAAAAHHH!!! O_O Pervert! There's a pervert in my room!
<Haylee> I'm being sexually assaulted by a little pervert!!
* Seth covers Haylee's mouth with his hand.
<Seth> Ssssh!
* Haylee bites Seth's hand!
* Seth smirks.
<TheStoryteller> The door opens after a moment...
<Seth> Gonna have to bite harder than that.
<Ishtar> Haylee, did you scream? I thought I...
* Ishtar blinks.
* Haylee gives Ishtar a grateful look.
* Seth waves his hands.
<Seth> No, no!
<Ishtar> Hey.. who are you!!
<Seth> It's not what you think.
<Haylee> A pervert! He tried to assault me in my sleep!
<Seth> No I didn't!
<Haylee> I'm sick of this whole damsel in distress thing....and YES YOU DID!
<Seth> I thought you were someone I was looking for!
<TheStoryteller> Seth finds himself on the recieving end of a titanium wing in his mug.
* Seth rubs his face as he finds himself on the floor.
<Ishtar> You don't bust into rooms like that..! :(
<Seth> Ow....
<Seth> Look!
<Ishtar> Haylee.. are you ok?
<Seth> Geeze just... calm down!
* Haylee tries to get out of bed, wondering if her legs are still numb.
* Seth stands back up.
<TheStoryteller> Haylee's legs are quite functional, but still a little weaker than she'd like.
<Seth> Haylee...?
<Haylee> Just calm DOWN! You tried to take advantage of me...in my SLEEP for Althena's sake!
<Haylee> ....?
* Seth looks at Haylee.
<Haylee> How did you know my name?
* Seth snaps his fingers.
<Seth> Damn, wrong girl....
<Ishtar> I go to find Emili, and some stranger busts into your room..
<Haylee> Yeah, no kidding! :/
* Seth holds his hand out. "Sorry about all this."
<Ishtar> You better have a good explanation...
<Seth> Emili?
<Seth> You know Emili?
<Haylee> Yeah, she's our friend...
<Seth> How many friends does she have?
* Ishtar supports Haylee.
<Haylee> Thank you, Ishtar. ^_^
<Ishtar> More than you will if you make some kind of living out of this, whoever you are.
<Seth> Well, let me introduce myself.
<Seth> I'm Sethius, most people call me Seth.
<Haylee> And what's your profession? Professional pimp?
<Seth> I'm looking for a woman named Emili.
<Haylee> Emili?
<Seth> Yeah, I met some people in this forest who told that I'd find her here in Horam.
<Seth> I thought you were her.
<Ishtar> Well she's not here.. so just go before I stop being nice.. >:(
* Lance runs into the room behind Ishtar. "Who are you?"
<Ishtar> This Seth person busted into Haylee's room and tried to accoust her, Mr. Astorian..
<Seth> When I apporoached your bed... I uh... kinda... tripped on your shoe...
<Haylee> ...And why were you in my room to begin with?
* Lance narrows his eyes as he watches Seth, and draws his own sword. "Then he'll meet his fate. You go and find Scott. I'll take care of him for now."
<Seth> As I said, I thought you were Emili.
<Seth> You see...
<Haylee> Is she your girlfriend or something?
<Seth> I need to find her and talk with her.
<Seth> No no no!
<Haylee> And that involves kissing her? O-o
<Seth> She's not my girl friend or anything.
<Seth> Again...
<Lance> You'll not be talking to anyone, whoever you are.
<Seth> I'm sorry I didn't mean to kiss you like that, as I said, I tripped on your shoe.
<Haylee> Likely story. Just watch it...okay? No more of this...or I won't be as nice to you as I'm being now.
<Ishtar> That doesn't sound like a good excuse.. Haylee, let me get you out of here before he does something else..
<Lance> Haylee, Ishtar, are you two alright? You want that I should deal with him?
<Seth> I really am sorry.
<Haylee> I'm fine...and thanks everyone...
* Seth glances around and buries his head in his hand.
* Haylee gives Seth a look.. "Just don't do it again. Ever."
<Seth> God, I am so messing this up.
<Lance> And you're about to be REALLY messed up.
<Ishtar> I guess I forgive you.. but that was still wrong.
<Seth> I'm sorry, really sorry.
<Seth> Umm...
<Seth> I don't know how exactly to make it up to you but uh....
<Seth> You girls want something to eat?
* Haylee raises an eyebrow...
<Haylee> Uh...Actually...we should probably be meeting up with the others soon...
<Lance> I think you should leave before I take matters into my own hands, mister.
* Seth withdraws his sword.
<Haylee> Lance...no...
<Ishtar> Just go before anything else happens... we've had enough problems lately.. -_-
* Seth holds it out and kneels before Haylee.
<Haylee> Just...let him go...
<Seth> Miss, I request that in order for me to make up for this disaster...
<Haylee> ....Make...up?
<Haylee> What...how?
<Seth> I request that I should become your guard.
<Ishtar> After what he did...?
<Seth> Or knight, or whatever.
<Haylee> ...You're joking...
<Lance> This guy is just asking for it.
<Seth> I shall protect you with my life and do anything that you wish me to do.
<Haylee> ...But....no...wait...
<Haylee> He's telling the truth.
<Haylee> I can sense it.
<Seth> I swear...
<Ishtar> You can tell that..?
* Seth looks up and smiles.
<Haylee> ^^; Having mental powers helps sometimes.
<Seth> Scout's honor.
<Haylee> Okay...you've got a deal...ON ONE condition.
<Haylee> You NEVER...EVER...pull that stunt with ANYONE again. Period. Got it?
<Lance> How would he know of honor?
<Seth> I swear.
<Haylee> All right.
* Lance whispers to Haylee. "If he tries anything at a later date, tell my son. He'll deal with that prick."
<Haylee> I will.
<Haylee> Anyway....Ishtar....we should head back to the others...
<Haylee> And thanks...both of you. ^_^
<Ishtar> Are you sure?
<Ishtar> Shouldn't you rest more... you are still weak..
<Lance> They should be at the Zen port by now....Ishtar, you take good care of her on the trip down.
<Haylee> ...I...I know...but I'm worried about them...
* Lance walks back downstairs. "Remember what I told you though, Haylee."
<Ishtar> Me too...
* Ishtar looks around, ignoring the kneeling Seth.
<Haylee> ...We should go find them...
<Ishtar> I wonder if I can carry you alright.. I know these wings are fast.. but I'm not sure how to fully use them yet.
<Haylee> You think you can do it, Ishtar? I don't wnat to put you through too much trouble... you've done so much for me already...
<Ishtar> John was worried about you.. maybe he will cheer up when we surprise him? :)
<Haylee> ...He was?
* Haylee blushes and smiles. "Yeah...let's go surprise him! ^_^"
<Ishtar> Well... please come outside.. I don't want to attract a crowd trying to fly..
* Haylee nods, and follows Ishtar. ^_^
<Ishtar> So let's find a spot outside the city limits.

Training City Horam

<TheStoryteller> Ishtar walks carefully out onto the street with Haylee, still with an arm around her for support.
* Haylee walks along with Ishtar. "I hope this weakness goes away soon...I hate being ill..."
<Ishtar> I'm surprised you're even walking.. you're very strong..
<Haylee> Really?
<Ishtar> Really.. that was a mighty curse Gregory used. It could have driven a normal person insane or in a coma..
<Ishtar> Ok.. are you ready?
<TheStoryteller> You step out into a little park...
<Haylee> Yes...let's go. :)
<TheStoryteller> Ishtar picks up Haylee a little hesitantly, and closes her eyes.. the next minute they're airborne on turbojets!
<Haylee> Whoooaaaa!

Zen Zone Harbor, Square

<TheStoryteller> Elrika is in the square chasing the elusive Xavier..
<Elrika> Xavier...xavier?!
<Xavier> What do you want?
* Elrika stops and searches the area.
* Xavier hides in a barrel.
* Elrika stops and looks down. "Huh!"
<Elrika> What is wrong with him?! Why can't he stop acting like a little rodent!
<Xavier> Rodent.
<Elrika> Forget him!
* Elrika walks off. "It's time to go viewing!"
* Xavier follows Elrika.
* Elrika looks around.
<Xavier> Can't believe she called me a rodent...

Zen Zone Harbor, Observation Deck

<TheStoryteller> Elrika walks north to the observation deck... Scott and co aren't there though. The 1 silver binoculars attract her elven curiousity. :)
* Elrika goes to the binoculars.
<Elrika> What's this? *inspects it*
* Xavier watches Elrika from behind a crate.
<TheStoryteller> It looks like a machine to view the port.. but it doesn't seem to be working. At least, without depositing silver.
<Elrika> How do I use this!
* Elrika starts to get frustrated. "What is this contraption?"
<Xavier> What is she doing?
<TheStoryteller> Elrika sees a sticker on it. "Deposit one silver for 5 minutes."
* Elrika sweatdrops as she looks around her to see if anyone noticed what she was doing.
* Elrika goes into her pocket and takes out one silver, as she deposits it into the contraption.
<TheStoryteller> The machine hums to life, the two eye holes opening. :) Elrika can get a close up view of anything in the town with it!
<Elrika> oooOOOOohHH!
<Xavier> I can't believe she called me a rodent...
<TheStoryteller> Staring in, you see a rather large ship pulling into dock.
* Elrika moves the machine to the left as she views the town with it.
<Xavier> I love her so much and she thinks of me as a rodent.
<Xavier> I wish I was human.
<Elrika> What a ship that is!
<Elrika> I bet they have a whole bunch of this things on board.
<Xavier> I would do anything to be human even if it was for a day only...
<TheStoryteller> Elrika spots a lot of sailors running around with crates off the ships to the larger buildings in town. They have an insignia bearing the name "Lovelace".
<Elrika> (I wonder what's in those crates.)
* Xavier looks at the ground as tears runs down his furry face.
* Xavier walks over to the fountain.
<TheStoryteller> Xavier stares down into the fountain's waters.. he sees his little furry reflection. A few ripples hit the water...
<Xavier> Ahhh.. look at me.
<Xavier> I have pointy ears.. well so does Elrika. But I have hair on my ears and I have whiskers...
<Xavier> And I walk on all fours.
<Xavier> Why would she want me... I'm just a "Rodent".
<TheStoryteller> Xavier feels like someone is watching him.
* Xavier looks around.
<Xavier> Who's there?
<TheStoryteller> Turning around, he sees Elrika's pointing the binocular set at him by the fountain. ^^
<Xavier> Oh god.
<Xavier> She sees me.
* Elrika waves at Xavier.
* Elrika screams. "I can see you! You look so close!"
<Xavier> But yet all she sees when she looks at me is a rodent.
* Xavier waves his tail.
<Elrika> Stay right there, I'm going to get you!
* Elrika steps away from the contraption as she trips.
* Elrika she slowly gets back up as she goes on all fours first, and then she goes on her feet.
* Elrika walks over to Xavier.
<Elrika> Whats the matter, silly?
* Xavier stands on his hind paws and trips into the fountain.
<Elrika> I've been looking for you, I was looking through the eyes of that machine there. Which made you look big, like my height and stuff.
<TheStoryteller> Xavier goes sploosh into the water, getting all wet. ^^
* Xavier crawls out of the fountain.
<Elrika> Now you're all wet! *picks up Xavier*
<Xavier> Nothing oh... Nothing at all!
<TheStoryteller> Just then there's the sound of something like an engine humming in the distance..
* Xavier leaps outta Elrika's hands.
<Elrika> Quiet silly! I got to go get you dried before you get sick.
<Elrika> Huh...what's that noise?
* Elrika looks around.
<Xavier> I have no clue.
<TheStoryteller> You see something shiny in the sun.. ^^
* Xavier looks up.
<Elrika> Agh..the sun hurts my eyes!
<Xavier> Whats that?
<Elrika> I can't see, what do you see Xavier?
<TheStoryteller> It looks like it's flying right at you... sort of on a wavy trajectory.
<Xavier> Bright light.
<TheStoryteller> As it comes closer, you see it's gold wings.. and.. a white robe.. ^^
* Xavier smiles.
<Ishtar> Ah.. I don't know.. if.. I can... h-hold on Haylee.. ^^
<Elrika> Huh...it got so large so fast. Like if I was looking through that machine again.
<Xavier> It's Ishtar.
<Elrika> Ishtar? Where?
* Xavier points up.
<Haylee> You...you can do it Istharrrrr! *blip* ^_^
<TheStoryteller> In a moment, Ishtar comes right at you, trying to veer off at the last second.. ^^
* Elrika looks up.
* Elrika screams!
<Ishtar> Elrika.. he..woa...!
<Haylee> Gaaaaah! O_o
* Xavier jumps back into the fountain.
<TheStoryteller> She does a loop mid air and lands flat on her back, still holding Haylee. ^^
* Elrika stands looking there shocked.
<Ishtar> Ow...ow..!
* Xavier back strokes.
<Haylee> @_@...Ooogh....are you okay Ishtar...?
<Xavier> Hey where did you learn how to fly Ish?
<Ishtar> I.. I think so... but that turbulence..
* Ishtar half-smiles, her hair all in ehr face. ^^
* Elrika walks up to Ishtar and Haylee.
<Xavier> Cute look, Ishtar.
<Elrika> You scared the heck out of me.
* Haylee brushes the hair out of Ishtar's eyes and giggles. ^^; "Well...I guess I could walk there.."
* Xavier jumps out of the fountain and runs toward Haylee.
<Ishtar> Well.. I scared myself too..
* Haylee grins and takes Xavier into her arms. ^_^
<Ishtar> I'm not going to try flying like that anytime soon..
* Xavier purrs.
* Ishtar is still on her back, mettalic wings crackling in a couple spots.
<Xavier> That's gotta hurt?
<Ishtar> I guess I should see Jack.. um.. could anyone help me up?
* Haylee tries to help Ishtar up...and falls on her butt for the effort. >_<
<Haylee> Blah! Dammit!
<Elrika> Let me try with you, Haylee.
<Elrika> Maybe I can get that tree over there to help us.
* Xavier luaghs at Haylee.
* Elrika closes her eyes and starts to concentrate.
* Xavier looks at Elrika.
<Ishtar> Is that ferret laughing at you Haylee...?
<Haylee> ...Yes. :p
* Haylee gives Xavier a look.
* Xavier give Ishtar the evil eye.
<TheStoryteller> One of the trees in the square, actually the whole town, starts growing a new branch..
<Xavier> I have a name.
* Xavier screams.
<Haylee> Xavier?
<Xavier> Yes?
<Haylee> Are you okay?
<Xavier> No.
<TheStoryteller> The branch slides under Haylee and Ishtar and then promtply flips over, dumping them to an upright position.
<Xavier> Why does everyone keep reminding me I'm not human?
* Elrika opens her eyes.
<Elrika> There you go. =)
<Ishtar> Oh!
<Haylee> Whoa! O_o
* Elrika smiles.
<Haylee> You're not saying...we're gonna catapult there...are you?
* Xavier walks off.
<Ishtar> That's amazing...
<Elrika> Oh no, of course not.
<Haylee> ...Xavier?
<Ishtar> Anyway, now that we are here, let's find Leon and everyone....
<Elrika> Xavier?
<Xavier> WKJHSWEUKBJ CANT BELIEVE THIS WHY THE LHOILKYH WOULD SHE WANND KJGU BE WITH ME
<Elrika> He walked off again huh....
<Ishtar> And your ferret before it runs away...? :/
* Xavier looks back.
<Xavier> She doesn't even chase me anymore...
<Elrika> He doesn't even follow me around anymore.
<Xavier> She's always trying to talk to one of the humans.
<Elrika> He never wants to talk to me that much anymore.
<Xavier> She acts like she doesn't want to be anywhere near me.
<Haylee> Xavier...?
<Xavier> I can't take it anymore.
<Haylee> Come back! ^^;
<Xavier> Why should I?
<Haylee> Because we're your friends...? :)
<Xavier> No one wants a rodent around.
<Haylee> I do!
<Xavier> No am not a friend. I am a RODENT.
<Ishtar> Xavier looks very sad....
<Haylee> ...You're a friend....it doesn't matter who you are.
* Ishtar reaches to pet him. "Please don't feel bad..."
<Xavier> Exactly.. it doesn't matter who I am, but WHAT I am, and I am a RODENT.
<TheStoryteller> You manage to catch a glimpse of Scott and his group down by the docks, as well as Jack carrying a slightly intoxicated Tahn onto a side street.. You'd better get to them before they find Leon.
<Haylee> ....Tahn's...drunk?
* Xavier jumps on Haylee.
* Elrika, having not heard a thing what was said, walks off to the others.
<Elrika> (I feel I'm invading Xavier's space to explore this world. I feel when I get the chance, I should tell everyone that I'm ready to go back home...)

SESSION END

Session Close: Mon Oct 04 02:00:09 1999

Chapter 15 - "Eyes Open"

~~ COMBAT! ~~

~~ Victory! 18 Xp and 76 $p gained. ~~

~~ SESSION END ~~

COMBAT!

Victory! 18 Xp and 76 $p gained.

SESSION END