Chapter 20 - "In Too Deep"

New Cast Appearing:
Storen as TheStoryteller, Saloni, Chrissy, Various NPCs
Session Start: Sun Nov 07 21:49:51 1999

<TheStoryteller> We last left the party in dire straights indeed.. a drive-by assault by Ramon flooring them and massacring the entire Virtue guard sent against him. Ramon sure was the ultimate trickster it seemed. But strangely, Bree was spared by Liza.. and we can only wonder why. (Maybe becaue she is just so darn irresitable, but hey..)

Diamond Dreams Nightclub, Concourse

<TheStoryteller> Bree finds her vision very foggy, the remains of the tablecloth protecting her from passing out for too long....
* Bree groggily reaches to remove the cloth. "......what happened?"
<TheStoryteller> What she sees is the remains of the Diamond Dreams lobby after the gunfire, battered and delapidated. It seems everyone is gone.. except the fallen bodies of the Virtue guardsmen, that is.
<TheStoryteller> In a corner you see Liza picking up the pieces of a broken wine bottle.
* Bree stands up and dusts herself off. "Damn... They took off and left me..."
* Bree blinks and walks over to Liza. "Hey... sorry about your place..."
<Liza> ..my best Chardonney.. *sigh*
* Liza looks to her. "Bree... I'm glad to see you're still in one piece."
<Liza> And don't apologize.. I can always replace it.. *chucks the bottle away*
* Bree blinks, surprised. "Yeah.. well, if it wasn't for you.. I wouldn't be... I guess I owe you my thanks..." *smiles a bit*
<Liza> Don't thank me really.. I had my reasons.
<Bree> Oh..
* Bree folds her arms. "Want money or something? A reward?"
* Liza smiles out of the corner of her mouth.
<Liza> Well, I had something else in mind... but I suppose it's wishful thinking..
<Liza> You do know who I am, don't you?
* Bree blinks. "Eh? What do you mean?" .oO(Now she's probably wanting my first born or something...)
<Bree> Basically.. yeah..
<Liza> And you're probably worrying your little head why a Rancor would save you, hmm..? ^^
* Bree pauses, collecting thoughts. "... Yeah. I had wondered why... I figured for money.. or something valuable..."
<Liza> Valuable.. that's an interesting thought... *muses*
<Liza> You see Bree, I know people... it's my job. And I can see you shouldn't throw your life away trying to bring down Ramon like the others..
* Bree nods. "Yeah.. I kinda figured it was part of your job.. with how friendly you were earlier.."
<Liza> So I thought I'd give you a chance to think about things.
<Bree> So... you want me to run away? *tilts her head at Liza*
<Liza> ....you can.
<Liza> Though if you decide the other way, things might get a bit rough between you and I...
* Bree blushes faintly. "You and I?"
<Liza> A rose's beauty is very fragile.
* Liza holds up her leather gloved hands, looking aside. "I really wouldn't want to hit a woman like you..."
* Bree blinks, partially shocked. "...a woman like me?" *staring Liza in the eyes*
<Liza> Yes. A woman like you. *looks back with her brown eyes*
<Bree> .oO(Gee.. don't elaborate or anything....)
<Liza> You can do great things, Bree.. I can sense it. And I'm never wrong.
<Bree> Yeah.. well I can do some great stuff... *smirks confidantly*
<Bree> But.. I still don't know what you're getting at... you're just dancing around what's really going on..
<Liza> Well, I run a club... ;)
* Bree sweatdrops. "Well duh, I can see that much.."
<Liza> In fact, you should be dancing along yourself.. because in 15 minutes, I have explaining to do.
<TheStoryteller> You hear some sirens in the distance.. o_o
* Bree sighs. "Don't suppose I can get where my friends are at from you?"
<Liza> Well, think dark and dreary and you'll be close.. Ramon has his eye on breaking them.
<Liza> And if you go there..
* Bree sweatdrops "Nothing's ever a straight anwser with you is it?"
<Liza> ... Bree. Remember who I am... I don't like it sometimes, but I have inherited a mantle.. and a responsibility.
<Liza> Lane was foolish for doing what he did, but we've got to pick up the pieces.
<Liza> I have to admit, you were brave to hit him the way you did... *smirks*
* Bree rubs her head, embarassed. "Brave? Well.. I dunno if that's what you'd call it..." *smiles*
<Bree> He just.. had it coming to him... that's all..
* Liza smiles. "It was. And he did have it coming."
<Liza> So why not go decide what you want to fight for.. and get back to me with your answer. I know I'll see you again. ^^
* Bree nods. "Sure.. I guess this is my cue to exit... I'm guessing.. giving who you are, and your title.. you have a back exit?" *smiles*
* Liza puts a hand to her bowtie, straightening it, very sure of herself.
<Liza> There's always a backdoor, Bree.. always. And yours is open.
* Bree blinks mildly confused.
* Bree sweatdrops. "My.. backdoor's open?"
<Liza> Bree.. just get out of here before I tie you up and make you stay. ;) The authorities are always looking for a scapegoat.
* Bree blushes, patting her butt just to see if her backdoor's really open. "Er.. yeah... I guess I'll see you then..." *starts sliding for the back exit ^^;*
<TheStoryteller> Bree finds a backdoor is indeed open.. thankfully not on her person, though. ^^

Mining City Zaback, Downtown

<TheStoryteller> Outside is the parking lot... there's a ton of cars in various states of disarray after all the panic.
* Bree exhales a sigh of relief and heads outside "Heh.. wonder which one looks nice today..." *walks towards them taking out her lock picks*
<TheStoryteller> Just then, Bree sees something shining in the setting sunlight..
<TheStoryteller> It's down the street, advancing slowly.. a person...
* Bree turns her head "<q> Oh great..." *tries to see who it is, and hide in the process*
<TheStoryteller> After a few moments you see who it is.. Ishtar. :)
<TheStoryteller> She's gimping along the street to the club... and she looks a mix of concerned and pained.
* Bree raises up from her hiding place. "Ishtar! Geez.. am I glad to see you..." *goes over to hug her*
* Ishtar almost falls over. o_o "Bree..?"
* Bree struggles to hold Ishtar up. "Yeah.. who else'd be dressed like this?" *smiles*
<TheStoryteller> Bree can see Ishtar's wings are repaired, and even shined to a glossy sheen...
* Ishtar nods. "I suppose you're right..." ^^
<Ishtar> But if you are here.. then Adam didn't take everyone..?
<Ishtar> I got worried when he never came back... -_-
<Bree> Hey.. nice job on the wings...
* Bree smiles. "Nope.. I got away... through some strange means.."
<Ishtar> You have to thank Adam's regiment for that.. they were very kind when he explained everything..
<Ishtar> Where is he? And where's Leon? He didn't do anything rash, did he?
* Bree shrugs. "I dunno... I passed out.. and when I woke up.. everyone was gone... now I'm supposed to find someplace dark and dreary..."
<Ishtar> You don't think they were taken to the mines up north..? *bows her head*
<Bree> That's definatly dark and dreary...
* Bree thumbs at the parking lot. "I was about to get us a ride... we can shave off some time if I get the fastest one."
* Ishtar nods, obviously disapproving of such means, but.. ^^
* Bree reads Ishtar's face. "Well.. we could always fly... your wings are fixed.." *smiles*
<Bree> That'd shave more off.. since we wouldn't have to use streets or watch out for people...
<Ishtar> I'd really want to avoid that.. I may make too much ruckus landing... and I'm still a bit dizzy..
<Ishtar> But if you think I can... *ponders*
<Bree> I don't want you getting hurt.. but.. time's a big issue... if he's trying to torture information outta them or something...
<TheStoryteller> Ishtar's wings flex out to their full extant.. making a loud clinking noise that startles you somewhat.
<Ishtar> You're right.. we can't waste time, Bree..
* Bree takes a step back, startled. "If you're sure you can do this... I can try to help you land... maybe if we lasso a tree.. or something, it'll slow your decent.."
<Ishtar> I'll be ok.. I have you with me... :) When I do something for someone else, it makes it different. *holds out her hands, almost as if to hug you*
* Bree smiles, and goes to hug Ishtar. "We're doing it for everyone..."
<Ishtar> I won't be scared anymore.. I promised myself that. So let's go!
<TheStoryteller> Ishtar's wings hum and glow.. the jets begin to come to life and you rise off the streets.. ^^

Zaback Diamond Mines, Dark Chamber

<TheStoryteller> Meanwhile, the rest of the group comes to.. dusty air entering your nostrils and throats, causing you to cough and choke.
* Leon coughs violently.
* Tahn coughs and opens his eyes. "What the hell happened?"
* Scott coughs.. "Tomoe, Aoshi..everyone...where are you?"
<Leon> Mother *cough* Fucker *cough*
<Tahn> Oh, yes. Ramon. -_-
* Leon pulls himself to his knees.
* Haylee coughs, leaning against John and sounding like she's going to cough up her lungs any minute.
<TheStoryteller> From the looks of it, you're in some kind of cavern... it's nearly pitch black other than a dim latern in a corner..
<Celyna> Well, if there was anything I DIDN'T foresee...
<Leon> Last thing I remember was seeing Ramon...
<TheStoryteller> And you all notice you are in VERY bad shape.
<Tahn> This sucks pulsating, bloated, vein-ridden Grog cock. -_-
<Leon> Right after that idiot Scott tried his hand at being me.
* Scott can't get up....he's taken a tremendous amount of damage from the bullets. Tomoe is right behind him, holding him to where he's leaning up. Aoshi...well, he's pretty much in as bad shape too.
* Seth moans and gets up.
* Tahn winces as a pain flares up from his arm.
<Seth> This IS NOT what I need right now...
* Johnathan gasps and inhales a few times, trying to clear his lungs. "What a..."
* Leon stands up, more or less ignoring the pain from his wounds.
<Tomoe> Scott, don't try to move yet...you're in no shape to.
* Haylee moans and opens her eyes. "...Aw god dammit..."
* Johnathan finds a wall and leans against it, murmuring.
<Tahn> Well then. You're here, Hay. -_-
<Scott> As if getting hit with...Nasch's ougi wasn't....enough.....
<Haylee> Eh..?
* Leon looks for his rifle.
<Tahn> God damn mother fucking bitch ass donkey-boning bastard...
<Aoshi> Calm down, all of you.
<Leon> Shut up.
<Celyna> Quit fighting...
* Johnathan raises a hand, palm upward, scattering little motes of energy through the group.
* Haylee meeps and grabs onto her leg. "Ow...Ow...OW..."
<Celyna> And jeez Tahn. Watch your mouth.
* Leon looks for a way out
<Tahn> Sorry. Becoming swiss cheese and being gassed isn't my idea of a good day.
* Leon looks over at Celyna, "So you're here too...are you alright?"
* Leon walks over to help her up.
<Scott> Tahn....do you..think...gett..ing cut..up..then shot..is..mi...ne?
<TheStoryteller> Johnathan casts Invigorate.. the party feels energy seep into their bodies, healing some light wounds.. but as he does so the walls give off a dark glow, muting the effect somewhat..
* Seth mutters about something about the group being the swear squad.
* Celyna takes Leon's hand.
<Haylee> Magic...nullifed...?
* Leon pulls her up.
<TheStoryteller> >> Everyone is restored to 1/2 HP. :)
<Leon> Are you alright?
* Johnathan stares at the wall.
<Tahn> ...
<Celyna> I'm alright as I could possibly be with about 5 pounds of dirt stuck to the inside of my nostrils.
<Celyna> And yourself?
<Tahn> Hmm...
<Leon> I'm breathing.
<Johnathan> ..well FUCK.
* Tahn casts a Bright Aura spell to see if it helps more.
<Haylee> John...?
<Leon> Which is bad, for Ramon.
* Haylee tries to stand up.
<TheStoryteller> Tahn's spell is completely absorbed by the walls..
<Leon> Let's get out of here.
<Celyna> He won't escape this alive.
<Seth> Hmmm....
<TheStoryteller> You notice they are black diamonds..
<Leon> You're damn right he won't.
<Seth> I think I can be of a little help here....
<Aoshi> I just hope we all escape this alive....
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> Do you feel that, John?
<Celyna> Why wouldn't we, sir? Hey, and what's your name?
<Johnathan> Feel..?
* Scott looks up at Tomoe. "Are you..ok?"
<Leon> You all will escape alive..
<Leon> Except perhaps Scott.
<Tomoe> I'm fine..but you didn't have to shield me and Aoshi like that.
<Tahn> From the very walls. The room is draining our energy, both physical and mental.
* Leon looks for a way out.
<Aoshi> He's in bad enough shape as it is...I'd suggest leaving Astorian be, Blackfire.
<Johnathan> I don't feel any real drain.. just..
* Haylee leans against the wall, looking rather hurt. :/
<Johnathan> ..something's interfering with magic..
<Leon> Regardless, Sushiman, I should kill the hypocrite for that shit he pulled.
* Tahn walks over to Haylee "You okay, Hay-sama?"
<Johnathan> Shut UP, Leon.
<Haylee> ...^^; Well...for someone who has a bullet stuck in her leg...I'm okay. You?
<TheStoryteller> Farther down the "tunnel" that you can make out.. is a door.
<Leon> Just find me a door, and I'll get us out of here.
<TheStoryteller> You hear some shouting from behind it.
<Leon> Ah here.
* Leon walks up to the door.
* Leon puts his ear to it.
<TheStoryteller> And yes, you do have your weapons... :)
<Johnathan> I didn't notice you doing much of anything.. not any of you, back there.. perhaps if we'd stuck together, we wouldn't even BE here right now..
<Tahn> Hmm..
<Leon> Johnathan, do shut up. I'm trying to listen.
<Tahn> Me and John'll get you to a doctor once we get out of here... that's not gonna be good if it stays in your leg.
<Tahn> I'm lucky.. I just got grazed by a few bullets.
<TheStoryteller> Leon hears the sound of drilling.. and some men barking out orders along the lines of "Over here! Go faster! More power!"
<Scott> Leon's right..I shouldn't have gone off on my own....
* Scott winces. "I fear I'm not going to be...any good to...anyone for a...while."
* Johnathan starts muttering again.
<Haylee> Thanks....:)
<Celyna> What's going on, Leon?
<Leon> Hmm.
<Haylee> I'm worried about you guys too. :/
<Leon> Sounds like some drilling.
* Leon attempts to just open the door
* Johnathan pauses, looking around.
* Tomoe looks over at Tahn. "I have only one question. Who are all of you?"
<TheStoryteller> It's locked... in fact, securely bolted.
<Leon> Okay..this is going to take some effort.
* Leon attempts to use his strength to break the door down.
<TheStoryteller> Leon feels considerably weaker down here... and from his wounds as well. He can't budge it...
* Tahn stands up and extends his hand. "We're friends of Scott-kun's. Tahn Igtenos. The vengeful guy trying to break the door down is Leon Blackfire."
<Seth> Hey... ummm.
<Seth> I could break them.
* Leon winces a second and slides down the door, "Oh damn..."
<Celyna> How ridiculous.
* Seth casually walks down to the door.
* Tahn blinks and slowly turns back to Seth. "What.... Why did you just sound like Emili for a second there?!" O_o
<Celyna> Of course you wouldn't be able to break it down all by yourself!
<Leon> I've done it before...
<Seth> Stand back.
* Haylee stands up, and tries to break the handle with her mental powers....
<Tahn> The dagger! O_o
<Tomoe> I guess you all know in some way who I am...since Scott-kun almost got himself killed trying to rescue me.
<Johnathan> The key?
* Seth pushes his body against the door.
<TheStoryteller> Haylee's mind loses focus.. she can't seem to project in this room.
* Tahn looks back to Tomoe "Yeah. He's lucky to have someone like you." ^_^
<Scott> It's...no....problem....I've had...worse...injuries...
* Seth closes his eyes for a moment...
<Seth> ....
* Leon stands up, not looking in good shape, "Damn I haven't been hurt like this in a while..."
* Tahn turns back to John. "Yeah. He's gonna use the key."
<Tahn> And it looks like it just might work...
* Scott winces. As a matter of fact, he's stll...BLEEDING.
* Haylee sinks back to the floor. "D..Dammit..."
* Seth begins glowing a yellowish color. "WING!"
* Seth slams into the door, smashing it in two.
<Tahn> What the?!
* Tahn facefaults.
* Celyna walks over to Leon, concerned
<Scott> Tremendous....power. I feel it..from...Seth. What is he?
<TheStoryteller> Seth glows the color of starlight, as you can swear you see two wings upon his back for a brief instant..
<Tomoe> O_O
<Leon> ..I'm fine.
<TheStoryteller> Seth goes careening through the door! :o
<Aoshi> What the....
<Johnathan> ...most interesting.
<Celyna> I'll support you if you need it...
<Leon> Don't worry about me...
* Tahn looks back at Scott "I'm not sure. Now..." He tears a piece of cloth of his tunic and uses it to bandage Scott's wound "This should help."
<Leon> Just make sure you get out of here alive..
<Scott> Thanks, Igtenos. And I'm sorry for getting you all into this. If I was in any shape to fight, I'd try to get us out of this mess.
<Seth> There...
* Seth turns back to the group.
<Leon> Your idiocy won't be needed any more, Scott.
<Tahn> No need to apologise, Scott.
<TheStoryteller> Seth lands on the rocky floor, the door knocked off the hinges.
<Seth> We can get out of here now.
<Tahn> Leon, shut up.
<Tahn> Seth...
<TheStoryteller> Beyond it you see a ton of mine workers, a couple staring in shock..
* Haylee gets up slowly. O_o
<TheStoryteller> [Worker] Hey, what the hell was that?
* Scott starts to stand as Aoshi and Tomoe support him. it's more than obvious that he's in no shape to fight, should the need arise.
<Seth> Oh, nothing really.
<Seth> Just had problems with opening the door.
<Leon> Come on Celyna...
<Seth> Nothing to worry about.
* Seth smiles sheepishly at the workers.
* Celyna walks beside Leon...
<Tahn> -_-
<TheStoryteller> [Worker] What the heck are people doing down here! This is a hazardous area! :O
<Tahn> This is insane.
* Leon glares at the worker, "Where is Ramon?"
* Tahn looks at the worker "That was probably the idea."

Zaback Diamond Mines, Third Stratus

<TheStoryteller> A lot of dust flies into your eyes from the drills working on the walls.
* Scott, supported by his two friends, starts out.
<Tahn> Whoa! Down, Leon! If they knew... they wouldn't say.
<Scott> -_-
<Leon> Where...
<Scott> Cover your eyes...this stuff could blind you.
* Haylee struggles to keep up with the party. -_-
<Leon> First Celyna..I'm going to get you out of here...
<TheStoryteller> [Worker 2] Hey, you didn't fall down the old shaft, didja?
<Tahn> Fall?
* Johnathan starts after the others quietly, a little way behind the party.
<Leon> Then I'll go find Ramon...
<Tahn> Maybe we were thrown. >_
<
* Scott winces again....
<Haylee> Fall..?
<Celyna> Get me out of here?
<Haylee> Gah. -_-
<Celyna> What the hell are you thinking?
<Tahn> Hay...
<Seth> Actually, we were kinda tossed in here while in a catatonic state....
<Celyna> I want revenge as much as you do...
<Leon> I don't want you getting hurt
<TheStoryteller> [Worker 3] Yeah, I bet Saloni's gonna have a fit when he hears about this... Two people tried to sue already! :P
* Celyna's eyes flash darkly...
<Seth> But no worries ^^;
<Scott> Leon....come here.
<Tahn> Saloni?!
<Celyna> I can take care of myself.
<Celyna> I'm highly motivated to do so, in this case.
* Tahn glares at the 3rd worker. "What do you know about Saloni?!"
<Leon> ...that's not what I wanted to hear...
<Haylee> Saloni...?
<TheStoryteller> [Worker 1] Yeah, he's the guy in charge of supervising this here op.
* Haylee hmms.
<Tahn> Where is he?
* Tahn growls.
<Celyna> What you want is important...
<Celyna> But not as important as this.
<Celyna> We've both been waiting for this moment all our lives.
<Tahn> ...
<Leon> But you're hurt.
<TheStoryteller> [Worker 3] I dunno.. he could be anywhere in these tunnels! *starts shouting as a bulldozer type thing rolls past*
* Tahn looks back at Haylee, who is foundering behind the party.
* Haylee catches up after a bit, muttering. ^^;
* Scott takes the heal ring off of his finger and hands it to Aoshi. Aoshi nods and walks over to Leon, and taps him on the shoulder saying, "Blackfire. A moment of your time?"
<Leon> Later.
* Tahn picks her up and carries her. ^_- "There may not be anything between us, but you're still not in the shape for walking. I can't heal gangrene, and neither can John."
<Johnathan> You don't know that, Tahn...
<Johnathan> ..ever try?
<Leon> I have much on my mind...
<TheStoryteller> [Worker 2] Why don't you get some goggles or hardhats or something.. this stuff'll blind ya!
<Tahn> Yes, John. I'd rather not think about it.
<Aoshi> Astorian wants you to take his heal ring. It's the least he can do to make up for this mess.
* Haylee smiles. "Thanks Tahn. ^^"
<Celyna> You're hurt too, dummy...
<TheStoryteller> [Worker 1] Don't want to inhale the diamond dust either. Thank goodness my medical coverage is super...
* Aoshi slips the ring into Leon's pocket.
<Celyna> Is that going to stop you?
<Celyna> ...of course not.
<Johnathan> ..I'll have to find out some time... if the opportunity every arises... I wonder if...
<Leon> My well being isn't important.
* Johnathan falls silent again.
<TheStoryteller> You all notice another several doors leading to dimly lit tunnels..
<Celyna> Don't argue with me...don't you know you can never win with a determined woman? ;)
<TheStoryteller> But he could be anywhere..
<Scott> You're...wrong, Leon......it..is....take the..goddess...damn....ring...
* Aoshi goes back to helping support Scott.
<Leon> You're not gonna let me go after him alone..are you...
<Tahn> ...
<Haylee> How are we going to fight the Fang when we're all barely conscious?
<Tahn> Wait a minute... this might work now.
* Tahn casts a Calm Litany on the group.
<TheStoryteller> Tahn gets some diamond dust in his throat as he utters some words.. he messes up the spell.
<Tahn> ...damn.
<Haylee> Tahn! O_o You okay?
<Tomoe> Tahn...are you alright?
<Leon> Well..if I can't talk you out of it...Celyna..please stay with me...
<Tahn> Yeah.
* Tahn tries the spell again.
<Leon> You've got people waiting for you...
<Celyna> Of course I'll stay with you.
<Celyna> This is our fight.
<TheStoryteller> Tahn casts successfully this time.. but again the walls seem to eminate a reverse magic field.. draining it's power to near nothing.
<Celyna> I promise.
<Tahn> ...
<Scott> Then you two...put that...heal ring to good use...I won't....get...involved.
<Tahn> We need to get out of the mine before I can do anything.
<Tahn> Sorry, Scott, Hay.
<Tomoe> You're in no condition to fight anyway, Scott.
<Leon> Come on..
* Tahn stops for a minute.
<TheStoryteller> [Worker 1] Hey, why don't you see the Foreman.. you're bashed up! :o
<Tahn> I just realized something.
<Johnathan> Remind me to find and smack the black dragon for this whole anti-magic thing.
<Leon> I'm going to find Ramon.
<Tahn> Where's Bree-kun?
<TheStoryteller> The workers swing some pickaxes around..
<Scott> Liza...probably...has...her with...her..
<Tahn> ... Liza? Dear god, that's an unclean thought.
<Leon> Can we all get on the same page here...?
<Leon> I'm going to find Ramon.
<TheStoryteller> You should leave this area.. you all feel like you are going to either go deaf, pass out, or both.
* Tahn tries to leave through the mines
* Scott, supported of course, starts walking again....
<TheStoryteller> There's various tunnels to take.. up, down, left, right..
<Leon> If anyone comes with me..fine..
<Leon> If not...get out.
<Johnathan> I'd love to. Which way is out?
* Tahn goes to the right, somehow sensing it's good to go this way.
<Scott> I'm in...no...condition to...fight....
* Johnathan rolls his eyes.
<Aoshi> Tomoe and I will get Scott and Haylee out of here.
<TheStoryteller> You see some scribbles on a few pieces of paper tacked to the walls.. Tahn's path reads "Foreman's Office".
<Haylee> ...
<Tahn> No... I've got Haylee, you two.
<Scott> Tomoe: Then come with us, Tahn.
<TheStoryteller> Tahn then notices part of it is scratched out. Above, in big red letters, is "FOREWOMAN".
<Tahn> ...
<Haylee> Is this safe...?
<Tahn> .....
<Johnathan> Nope.
<Tahn> Fore_woman_? Liza, perhaps?
<Haylee> Maybe...
<Leon> ...
<Scott> No...I think..I know...that...handwriting...
<Tahn> Either way, I'll come with you two then. I'm not leaving Haylee here. No offense, but I only trust John with her.
* Johnathan raises an eyebrow.
* Haylee blinks.
<Leon> ..I don't trust anyone...
<Scott> That writing is Chrissy's...I thought I knew it.
<TheStoryteller> You hear one of the drill bits making odd clanking nosies. One of the workers starts shouting to "get that psycho bitch in here to fix it" ^^
<Tahn> Psycho bitch?
<Scott> Psycho bitch?....Why do I get the strange idea he's talking about Chrissy?
<Tahn> I'd say Emili, myself, Scott.
<Leon> ..I don't care...
<Scott> Yeah, but does Emili work on mining equipment?
<Tahn> Leon, you wouldn't care if someone shoved a stick of dynamite up your ass.
* Tahn looks at Scott. "Point."
<Leon> Certainly I would.
<Leon> Because that person would die.
<Tomoe> Who's Chrissy?
<Scott> Just an old friend from Vane. We've been friends for what seems like forever.
<Tahn> Trust me, I've seen them together. It's nothing to worry about, ma'am.
<Scott> Thanks, Tahn.
<Leon> ...I'm going to find Ramon.
<Tomoe> I trust Scott anyway.
<Leon> I don't trust anyone.
<Scott> Hey,Blackfire....good luck, man.
<Tahn> We'll back you up if we can, Leon.
<Tahn> Actually....
* Scott gives Leon a weak thumbs-up.
<Tahn> John! Get over here. ^_-
<Leon> Psh.
<Scott> Put that heal ring to good use, now.
<Leon> I don't even see why you people came.
* Johnathan walks over toward Tahn. "Yeah..?"
* Tahn hands Haylee to a very surprised John "I'm sure you'll take care of your love. Or I'll rip your throat out."
<Tahn> I'm coming with you, Leon. I have my own score to settle with Ramon.
* Johnathan narrows his eyes, looking more angry than surprised.
<Leon> You....are not.
* Scott stays with Tomoe and Aoshi. "Good luck, guys. My score's settled. Take care."
<Tahn> If I don't come with you, I'll just follow you. Either way I'll be on the same battlefield as you, wether you like it or not. And if you try to shoot me, Ramon will take the advantage and shoot _you_.
<TheStoryteller> Scott sees a few signs pointing to "Drop off Area" and "Train Depot"..
<Johnathan> We're idiots to split up.
<Scott> Hmm...the train depot would be a good place to go...
<Tahn> John...
<Leon> I think you're all idiots for coming.
<Leon> None of this would have happened if it were just me.
<Aoshi> It's the only way, Hylan. Scott and Haylee are in no condition to fight... someone needs to go wtih them.
<Tahn> DO YOU THINK WE WERE TOSSED INTO THIS DAMN MINE FOR KICKS?!
<Johnathan> No, Leon, you'd never have made it THIS far.
<Tomoe> Let's go to the Forewoman's office....there we can figure out how to get out of here.
* Scott nods. "And it'll be a good place for us to tend to some of these injuries."
<Johnathan> What you don't understand.. what ALL of you apparently don't understand.. is that ALL of our lives are on the line here.
<Johnathan> We stand.. or fall.. together.
<Scott> John, we have to trust them.
<Leon> You seem to be missing the simple fact Johnathan.
<Tahn> I know this, John. But I'd rather fall while the rest live.
<Leon> I...don't...care.
<Scott> They know what they're doing.
<Tahn> Leon, go off and get yourself killed. But if you do, hand me your gun. You sure as hell won't need it in the afterlife.
<Johnathan> Maybe you don't, Leon. But I'd perfer to see all of us live.
<Leon> There's only person I care that makes it out of here alive.
<Scott> This is a battle Leon and Tahn have to face.....Trust them. Believe in them and they'll come back alive.
<Tahn> Cel. Not a problem. She'll be fine.
<Johnathan> Just like you would have if I'd left you to it alone, Scott?
* Tahn stops.
* Scott starts to limp to the "Forewoman's" office.
<Tahn> You... have a point there, Hylan.
<Scott> We'll rest here, you guys go on and fight if you want. I'm not in any condition to.
<Leon> I'm in no mood to rest.
<Tahn> No... John has a point, Scott. I'd get splattered if I did this myself.
<Tahn> I'll come with you guys, I guess.
<Johnathan> ..nice to see someone has some sense.
<Scott> I wish I could help, guys, but I have two people to protect and get out of here.
<Leon> I suggest you all leave.
<Leon> You're only here because you were with me.
<Tahn> Leon... We'll leave when we're good and ready.
<Johnathan> So you can be the one to go get killed, Leon?
<Tahn> Go off on your own, see if we care.
<Johnathan> I don't think so..
<Tomoe> Scott-kun?
<Tahn> But if you leave, I keep the gun. Remember that.
* Leon shrugs, "Who cares if I get killed."
<Seth> Hey umm....
<Johnathan> You should, Leon.
<Johnathan> If you die and Ramon lives.. what good is that to you?
<Seth> Have you guys seen Emili?
* Tahn winces. "There... you're doing it again, Seth."
<Scott> We're getting out of here, Tomoe, Aoshi. But first, we'll see if this "Forewoman" can help us.
<Leon> He won't live.
* Seth looks at Tahn.
<Johnathan> YOU live.. and let HIM die. THAT should be your goal.
<Seth> Doing what?
* Tahn looks at Seth. "No. We haven't. And you're starting to sound like her."
<Aoshi> Ok...
<Celyna> Leon.. you're not going to get killed as long as I'm around. I'm making sure we see this to the end together..
* Tahn looks at Seth. "Something about you..."
<Leon> ...
* Scott and his two friends start to the "Forewoman's" office. Aoshi then knocks on the door.
<Leon> Go then.
<Leon> REST if you want.
<Leon> I don't need it.
<Tahn> Good for you, Leon.
<Scott> Then good luck, Leon....take care.
<TheStoryteller> Scott hears something drop, and a woman scream. "Aw hell!" o_o
<Scott> That's Chrissy, alright. I know that voice.
<Tahn> Just remember. You either go after Ramon or stay and protect Celyna.
<Leon> I've already taken care of Celyna.
<Tahn> If you say so.
<Tahn> Just make sure you don't lose.
* Leon eyes Johnathan
<Tahn> For...his sake.
<Tahn> You know who I'm talking about.
<Leon> I should have killed you long ago.
<Tahn> As should have I you.
* Scott knocks on the door again. "Hello? Chrissy?"
<Leon> You couldn't even come close, kid.
* Johnathan stares at Leon, his gaze hardening. "I've made a few promises, Leon.. I intend to keep all of them."
<Tahn> An assassin doesn't need to.
<Leon> Neither does a sharpshooter.
<TheStoryteller> The door opens in a jerking motion, as you come face to face with a very angry blonde.
<Chrissy> Damn it, don't you people ever..!
<Scott> O_Ox
<Leon> Oh great..it's THAT bitch.
* Chrissy blinks a few times...
<Scott> Hi, Chris.
* Seth waves. "Hey"
* Tahn's voice seems to be cold and calculating.. more so than you've heard him before. "But the sharpshooter lets other know of his presence. A note." He pushes Leon's gun down.. "Get a silencer."
<Aoshi> THIS is your old friend from Vane?
<Chrissy> Oh hey.. it's Scott.. and bullet-brain. ^^
<Scott> Yep..
* Chrissy takes off her glasses, and straightens her hair and red robe.
<Leon> I don't care if you see or hear me, boy. I'm strong, you aren't.
<Scott> He's going off to fight someone deeper in the tunnels. My friends and I need a place to tend our injuries before getting out of here.
* Leon shoves Tahn into the wall and walks up to Chrissy.
<Tahn> One shot, one stab. All it takes to kill a man.
<Leon> What the hell are you doing here...
<Chrissy> No kidding.. you look like crap on a stick, Scott.. ^^
<Scott> Been a rough few days...
<Leon> ..he can't help that he was born that way...
<Seth> Are you being a little bit rude?
* Chrissy looks over the advancing Leon. "You're not too hot yourself, bucko.." :P
<Johnathan> Humor? From Leon?
* Tahn grabs the back of Leon's shirt and promptly disarms him in the same motion. "Don't walk away when I'm talking to you, boy."
<Johnathan> I'm amazed..
<Scott> ¬_¬
<Leon> Not humor..honesty.
<Scott> Anyway, Leon, good luck. Put that heal ring to good use, ok?
* Leon grabs Tahn by the throat and hangs him in the sky, "You are annoying me boy, now go away before I twist your shiny head off and roll it down this cave."
<Chrissy> How'd you end up in this hell hole? And here I thought I was the one being punished.
* Leon tosses him down into the cave floor.
<Chrissy> Working on some lame-o drill-engines..
<Seth> Ah... Miss Chrissy is it? Do you happen to know where a woman named Emili might be?
* Tahn holds the gun to Leon's forehead. "Remember I have this. Strength doesn't matter. Power does."
* Leon grins, "Not without these."
* Leon show Tahn his bullet clips.
<Leon> Now give me that, rookie.
* Tahn takes one out of his trenchcoat. "An assassin is always prepared."
* Chrissy eyes Seth, shaking her head. "No dice there.."
* Scott looks over at Tomoe. "I had to rescue her. And we wound up here. Chrissy Vulcanon, this is my girlfriend from Horam, Tomoe Karishima, and my sparring partner, Aoshi."
* Leon pulls a small revolver and aims it at Tahn's throat, "So is a sharpshooter."
<Seth> Dang....
<Seth> This sucks....
<Seth> Aw well.
<Chrissy> Nice to meet'cha.. too bad it's in such a rotten place.. *waves*
<Tahn> Rifle versus revolver... who will win?
<Chrissy> And are those two alright..?
<Seth> If I follow these guys... I might eventually meet up with her.
<Tomoe> Nice to meet you. Now, can we get inside where we can tend to Scott's injuries?
<Leon> I will.
<Leon> Because you will flinch.
<Leon> And I will not.
* Tahn smirks "You underestimate me, Blackfire."
<Tomoe> We're fine. Scott protected us from a shower of bullets with his own body.
<Chrissy> Rifle-butt looks like he's going to blow a blast chamber... *snickers*
<Scott> That's just Leon.
<Leon> Of course I could always do this.
* Leon just snatches the rifle back.
<Scott> But all in all, he's not a bad person....deep down.
<Leon> But that would be too easy.
<Chrissy> Really? Scott's always like that.. he's quality material, you know? Anyway, come in for what it's worth.. the boss is out right now, so I'm in charge.. hehe! ^^
<Leon> Now go away, boy.
* Tahn doesn't let go. He gets carried along _with_ the rifle. O_o
<Johnathan> The two of you are acting like children.
<Johnathan> ...children with guns, yes.
* Leon flings Tahn into the wall.
<Leon> Let go of my gun.
* Scott and his friends go into the office to attend injuries and get ready to leave the mines.
<Tahn> Your defenses are weakening, Blackfire.
* Tahn picks himself up and goes into the office.
* Leon flings Tahn into the other wall.
<Leon> Let go of my gun, boy.
<Johnathan> ..where IS everyone going, then?
<Leon> my defenses are fine.
<Chrissy> Scott, you lay down here for a while, k? I'll see about getting you a ride outta this place...
<Chrissy> (...course I'll probably lose my job again....)
* Haylee looks quite content in John's arms. ^_^
* Scott lies down as Tomoe attends to his wounds. "You can always go to Horam. My grandfather would probably have a job for you, Chris."
<Leon> Don't you dare question my defenses again..or you'll die where you stand.
* Tahn smirks. "Questioning? Who's questioning?"
<Johnathan> All right.. so Scott is leaving.. and Leon is going deeper in.. unless he stops to rip Tahn's head off first.. am I right?
<Leon> Oh that's...screw you..
* Leon pulls his rifle up and aims at Tahn.
* Johnathan stares at Leon and Tahn.
* Tahn pulls out a dagger and levels it with Leon's throat.
<Leon> Good bye, idiot.
<Tahn> Good bye, asshole.
<Haylee> Stop it...
<Chrissy> If I didn't know better, I'd swear they were best friends.
<Seth> I think they're brothers...
* Scott chuckles. "Almost, eh?"
<Seth> They act like my sister and I do.
* Johnathan raises a hand, throwing a small sphere of energy in between the two of them, detonating it as flamboyantly as he can in this cave. "ENOUGH"
<Chrissy> Well they better decide before Saloni comes back.
<Seth> Course... we once went 12 minutes without arguing...
* Leon fires, but the magic seems to block the bullet.
<Leon> ..damn you Johnathan...
<Chrissy> I can tell he's gonna be all snotty when he gets here.. ^^
* Seth trails off.
<Haylee> Will you two grow up PLEASE? -_-
<Johnathan> We don't have the LUXURY of killing each other here...
<Haylee> Exactly!
<Haylee> Focus on the Fang, and how we're going to get out of this mess!
<Seth> Hey look, I'm gonna tag along with you guys....
<Seth> You know, going to go kill that Ramon guy or whoever he is.
<Tahn> ...
<Johnathan> All right, Leon.. so I'm with you, Celyna is with you, and Seth here is with you...
* Seth waves sheepishly.
<Tahn> ...
* Tahn just stands there, unflinching.

Marius Zone, Midair

<TheStoryteller> As you decide your seperate ways, we join Bree on her grand rescue mission, already in progress... ^_^
<TheStoryteller> Ishtar flies through the air quite well... the wind whips your hair around, as you follow the tracks leading to the mine complex.
* Bree squints her eyes to keep the wind out. "I don't think I'll ever get used to this!"
<Ishtar> I think I'm starting to get the hang of this... ^^ *has some hair in her eyes too*
<Ishtar> Do you see the entrance...? The trains go this direction..
* Bree smiles. "Yeah! Sure looks like you are.. guess we'll find out when you land right?"
* Bree giggles, then wide eyes. "Gah! You gotta see to fly!" *wraps her legs around Ishy's waist, and frees an arm to get the hair out of her face*
<Bree> The train has to go in somewhere right? We can follow the tunnel down most likely...
* Ishtar blinks at Bree.. "Just hold on, please.." ^^

Zaback Diamond Mines

<TheStoryteller> Ishtar swoops down closer to the tracks.. there's several tunnels to enter though...
<Bree> Don't worry Ishtar.. I'm good at hanging on.. comes with being a theif. In case of emergency... hang over the edge of a roof. No one looks for you there.. *smiles*
<Ishtar> :) I think I can navigate a tunnel alright.. but which one?
* Bree looks down to the ground. "Great.. which one to pick now... hmm.." *examines the area*
<Bree> Which one looks most used? It's bound to lead to the best area..
<TheStoryteller> Bree sees three tunnels on the south, west, and east sides respectively.. they must all go to different parts of the mine and refineries.
<Bree> They all look the same! How the hell'm I supposed to pick one of the things...?
* Ishtar stops, tilting her wings downward, and hovering in midair..
<Ishtar> Maybe the one that goes to the raw diamonds.. if Ramon really wanted to put them in a bad place, it would be there. They drain the energy of the people who mine them.. that's why it's dangerous work.
* Bree hangs onto Ishtar, paning her gaze along the row of tunnels. "Yeah.. as if heavy machinery accidents weren't enough...." *shrugs as much as she can*
<Bree> Guess that's as good a choice as any...
<TheStoryteller> Bree sees some carts near the left tunnel... they have a few shimmering gems poking out of them.
* Bree lets go with an arm and points. "They must cart them outta that tunnel Ishtar.. let's aim for it!"
* Ishtar nods. "Ok Bree.. here we go.."
* Bree nods and holds on again "Ok, I'm ready..."
<TheStoryteller> Ishtar drops out of the sky a bit too fast by your figuring, getting you a bit airsick.. but she levels out and shoots toward the tunnel.. before long you actually go INSIDE it.
* Bree head tilts back loosely, squiggly eyed. "Gaaahh.. you're getting a little TOO good at this Ishy..."

Zaback Diamond Mines, First Stratus

<Ishtar> Well I'm trying my best... but now I can't see too well down here..
* Ishtar follows the tunnel downwards, coming dangerously close to scraping the walls..
* Bree clutches Ishtar tightly. "Y..you mean.. you can't see where you're going?! We're gonna crash!"
<Ishtar> D..don't worry Bree.. I have everything unde..
<Bree> Geez! Lets just walk or something... that way, if we fall.. we'll only need a bandaid.. not superglue..
* Bree blinks. "You ok?"
<TheStoryteller> Ishtar finally smack one of the walls, sending sparks flying and you into a topspin. X_X
<Ishtar> Woah.. I c..can't stay aloft... *gets dizzy eyed*
* Bree hugs Ishtar in a death grip as they spin. "We're gonna DIIIEE!!!"
<TheStoryteller> You go falling to the tracks in a clump.. ^^
<TheStoryteller> Nearby is a few doorways, and a walkway following the tracks down farther. There's a low rumbling in the tunnel too...
<Ishtar> Are we.. alright?
* Bree sits up holding her back. "Aah... geez..."
* Bree winces, leaning over to check on Ishtar. "Hey.. you ok? Can't see you very well.." *feels around*
* Ishtar blinks as Bree gets her nose. ^^
* Bree honks her nose "Ok.. found you.." She giggles. "By the way.. I think that's a car coming.. we need to get up." *starts to stand up, trying to help Ishtar*
* Ishtar gets up, rubbing her head. "I still need flight lessons it seems..."
<Ishtar> Why don't we duck into on of those doorways..
* Bree shakes her head "Nah.. you did fine.. just flying in the dark..."
* Bree nods. "Good plan.. until we see what's up and get our bearings..." *heads for a door*
<TheStoryteller> Ishtar goes for the rightmost door, as the rumbling gets louder... beyond it seems to be a catwalk spanning over a large open area of the mine.
* Ishtar folds down her wings, and peers over the edge at all the workers below..
* Bree takes a look into the open area. "Maybe we can spot them from here..."
<Ishtar> I guess so.. ^^ I had no idea so many people worked here.. no wonder this city is so populated.
<Bree> Yeah.. dangerous work, but alot of money.. it brings out the greed in people..
<TheStoryteller> Ishtar points at two people, whispering..
<Bree> Though.. alot of these guys, and ladies, are probably trying to fend for their familes... Hmm? *looks down at the people*
<Ishtar> Hey.. those two seem familiar..
* Bree rubs her eyes, trying to see them clearer. "Really? Let's see..."
<TheStoryteller> Bree looks where Ishtar is pointing.. down in one of the alcoves, you spot Saloni talking with someone.. black hair.. a business suit.. a gun by his side.. it could only be..
* Ishtar kneels down, trying not to be spotted if people are looking.
<Ishtar> Isn't that that man from the trial in Vane?
<Bree> Hmm... *gets a mischevious grin*
<Bree> Yeah.. that's him... *steps back into a darker shadow* I think I'm gonna go see what they're saying...
* Bree looks for a good way down to where Saloni and Ramon are at.
<TheStoryteller> Bree spots a couple of good routes.. steam pipes, scaffolds..
* Bree follows her path down with her eyes, looking for a good hiding place, within earshot.
<TheStoryteller> Ramon seems to have a satisfied smirk on his face as he speaks.
<Ishtar> Bree.. be careful...
* Bree nods. "I'm always careful Ishy..."
* Bree smiles. "But.. if they happen to find me, through some weird twist of fate. Find everyone else, and tell them where these two are at."
<Ishtar> Bree.. please don't talk like that.. if something happens I'm sticking with you..
* Bree smiles. "I appreciate that.. but do what's best for everyone.. ok?"
<Ishtar> I.. alright.. I'll be waiting up here..
* Bree nods and smiles, hopping over the railing with out a sound, grabbing onto some pipes, doing gymnatics to swing herself from place to place quietly, landing, and sneaking cautiously up to listen in.
<TheStoryteller> Bree does a good job.. she lands on a large water pipe that can support her wieght within earshot.
<Saloni> ...an't believe they fell for the trap.. and now they are cooling off down below... Ramon, you sure do what you do well.
* Bree twitches a pointed ear, aiming it at Saloni and Ramon.
<Ramon> Yes... and I hope you keep up to par, as well, Mr. Saloni. They are not to leave the lower levels till I personally have a little welcoming party for them..
<Saloni> What about that thief girl though?
<Ramon> What about her? You shouldn't be worried. After all you did to her father when he stole from our shipment...
<Saloni> Well yes, I know that.. it's just that Liza spared her in the attack. I hope she's not going down the Lane path again..
<Ramon> Ah yes.. and I must deal with our little loose end you forgot to tie...
* Bree grabs the pipe she's sitting on, squeezing it as if to crush it "..........." *giving Ramon and Saloni hateful looks*
<Saloni> I tried.. but the trial ended unexpectedly. I can only do so much, you know.
<Ramon> I suppose it can't be helped... but I will enjoy this.. hm, hm. Torturing the Knight was a good warmup...
<Bree> .oO(I'm going to kill that bastard! Soon as he's alone.. I swear I'll tear him limb from limb!!)
<Ramon> Now I'll take a harder target in one Mr. Blackfire. So do keep your word this time, hm?
<Saloni> Count on me, Ramon, sir... I've already managed to clean up the mess in Diamond Dreams..
<Ramon> Yes, having you working for those slugs is quite the benefit to us... I'm getting things prepared..
<Ramon> If you see Liza, tell her I need a word.
<Saloni> I'll do that.
* Ramon starts to walk off.. but not before he looks around skeptically...
* Bree sinks down into the shadows, attempting not to be seen.
<Ramon> You'd better not chicken out again... your legs may be even better than your mouth.
<Saloni> I won't sir... I have just as much guts as Nasch does.. ^^
<Ramon> Really... *walks off*
* Bree watches Ramon to make sure he really does walk off, then turns to watch Saloni to see where he goes
* Saloni starts to walk around, inspecting some of the diamonds heading to the processing center. He holds a handful, looking pleased.. he's out of earshot.
<TheStoryteller> Just then one ofthe pipes near Bree shudders slightly.
* Bree grins evilly, drawing her daggers out, looking for a way to follow him stealthly, then blinks at the pipe, diving away from it.
<TheStoryteller> Bree gets some steam in her face, throwing her into a dizzy state.. She almost falls off the ledge, catching the edge at the last minute.
<TheStoryteller> Bree drops behind a set of crates, luckily. But Saloni is looking at the sound of the steam...
* Bree leans up against some crates, rubbing her eyes .oO(Damn! Not now! NOT NOW!)
<Saloni> Who's there...?
* Bree takes a deep breath .oO(What'm I talking about? I don't need my sight to fight.. heh.. a whole year with out it.. what's a few minutes or hours) *listens for Saloni's movements*
<Ishtar> .o( Oh no.. Bree...)
<TheStoryteller> Bree hears footsteps coming closer...

Zaback Diamond Mines, Third Stratus

<TheStoryteller> Meanwhile, Leon and co head out of the office, leaving Scott and his group to make their way up with Chrissy's help..
* Tahn glares in Leon's general direction...
* Leon doesn't even look at Tahn, appears to be more focused on Celyna's well being.
* Johnathan walks along behind the others, keeping a watchful eye on Leon and Tahn.. presumably still carrying Haylee.
<Leon> He's down here somewhere..
* Haylee tries to mentally pull the bullet out of her own leg. O_o
<Haylee> . o O ( No sense trying to pick it out with dirty hands... )
<TheStoryteller> Leon can go the other three directions at the junction.. right was where you left Scott...
<Leon> Haylee...if you wish, I'll remove the bullet later.
<Haylee> ...Thanks Leon...
<Leon> . o O (If I'm still alive.)
* Tahn looks north, then left, then at John, silently asking his opinion.
<Leon> Hmm..
<TheStoryteller> South led back to the digging operation..
<Johnathan> Left?
<Johnathan> I could be wrong..
* Leon licks his finger and holds it in front of the left tunnel.
<Johnathan> ..but I have a feeling left might be right.
<Johnathan> ...er..
<TheStoryteller> Leon feels some warm air... possibly steam.
* Tahn goes north.
<Leon> I say left.
<Leon> Agreed?
<Johnathan> Agreed.
<Haylee> Yeah...
* Leon eyes Tahn, "Every group as one..I guess he's ours."
<Tahn> You wouldn't care if I agreed or not, so I'm going north.
<Leon> You're right I don't care.
<Johnathan> Tahn, are you completely obtuse?
<Leon> But I'm just Johnathan and Haylee think otherwise.
<Leon> Maybe even Celyna.
<Leon> ..Celyna tends to like everyone...
<Johnathan> We need to stick together. Right? So... why go one way when we all go the other?
* Tahn rolls his eyes. "Que sera sera."
<Leon> Anyway Tahn, do what you like. But your friends here might not like it.
<Tahn> ...
<Haylee> Please stay Tahn...
<Haylee> We've got to work together...
* Tahn blinks
* Tahn shuts his eyes and stays silent.
<Leon> Shall we go left now?
* Haylee nods.
<Johnathan> ...yeah.
* Leon leads the way
<Tahn> .oO(Mom... Dad... what would you do?)
* Tahn slowly follows the rest of the group.
* Johnathan walks along behind Leon.
<Leon> You are all quiet.
<Leon> Normally you take great pleasure in annoying me.
<Haylee> Let's just say I'm more worried about the Fang right now..
<TheStoryteller> Leon sees more of the same decor.. mineshafts and tools strewn about..
* Haylee keeps trying to pull the bullet out pyschically so she can mend the wound and walk on her own. :p
<Leon> Let me worry about the Fang.
<TheStoryteller> Haylee manages to pull it out, but it stings like heck afterwards.
* Haylee hisses loudly.
<Leon> I told you I'd do that.
<Haylee> ^^; I got it out...don't worry...
<Leon> Now it's going to scar.
* Tahn casts a Heal Litany spell from the distance. ^_-
* Haylee looks at the Heal Litany cast on her leg. "Not anymore it won't. Thanks Tahn :)
<TheStoryteller> Tahn's spell fails.. the diamonds absorb the energy. It's the thought that counts, apparently. ^^
<Haylee> ...or not?
* Leon snickers, "Trust me, it'll scar."
<Johnathan> Scars can be fixed, you know.
* Haylee blehs, and decides to just grab one of her hankies and apply it to the wound. "Eh, they're battle scars."
<Johnathan> ...well..
<Johnathan> ..I did it once, anyway.
* Leon eyes Johnathan, "I believe I'm living proof that they can't be fixed."
<Johnathan> ...and it hurt like hell. But it worked.
<Haylee> I'll take a scar over having gangrene anyday.
<Tahn> .oO(Haylee. She's just like Alex. Sweet, caring, but at times a bit naive and too trusting.)
<Leon> Anyway, I've removed bullets from my body without scaring.
<TheStoryteller> Leon starts to see the lanterns stop and turn sharply up ahead.
<Haylee> You'll have to teach me. Something tells me I'll have plenty of bulletholes by the time this is all over. (Grumble)
<Johnathan> Speaking of removing bullets..
<Tahn> .oO(Damn it, Alex. Ya had to go and do that... You'd still be alive if you hadn't tried to protect me from him...)
* Leon waves everyone over to the wall
<Johnathan> Can you stand on your own for a second, Haylee?
* Tahn is obviously lost in thought. ^_-
<Haylee> Yeah, I think so.
* Johnathan gently sets her down.
<Leon> Someone's coming.
<Leon> So get your weapons ready.
* Haylee grits her teeth a bit, but is able to stand.
<Haylee> ...Oh?
* Haylee pulls out her bow. "Right..."
<Leon> Might just be miners..but I'm not taking any chances.
* Johnathan clenches his fists, and fades for a second, a bullet falling and landing softly in the dirt before he solidifies again.
<Leon> Well, I thought someone was coming..
* Seth keeps his eyes open.
<Johnathan> ..feels good to get that out..
<Leon> Come on..let's go.
<Haylee> You okay John?
<Johnathan> Sure.. it was shallow.. I just kinda healed over the entry wound back there.
<Seth> Hmmm....
<Seth> Why would they be hiding in the mines?
<Johnathan> Let's get going.. the higher up we are, the better.
* Haylee nods.
<Leon> He's not hiding.
<Leon> He has no reason to hide.
<Johnathan> ..and we're not getting any further up just standing here..
<Johnathan> ..need a lift still, Haylee?
<Leon> I thought I saw something..might have been your magic..
<Seth> Well then, let's continue onward...
<Tahn> ...
* Seth leads the way.
<Haylee> No, I'm okay... :)
* Johnathan nods. "All right.."
<Haylee> Thank you though. ^_^
* Haylee hugs John. ^_^
<Leon> Anyway, he's got the upper hand,
<TheStoryteller> Leon sees what looks like a shaft up ahead... it seems like it's used to lift the minerals to higher levels and also lower the runoff down below.
* Tahn looks at them and sighs quietly... John is like he would have been, had circumstances been different.
<Leon> And he knows it.
<Leon> Hmm...this will be useful.
<Seth> Going up?
<Tahn> I think we are. But make sure you are ready for anything.
* Seth heads up the shaft.
<Johnathan> Up sounds good..
<Haylee> Going up! ^_^
<Leon> Everyone go.
<Seth> So uh...
<Leon> I'll bring up the rear.
* Haylee heads up the shaft. ^_^
* Johnathan nods, and walks toward the shaft
<Seth> When did you guys last see Emili?
<Leon> Who gives a shit about Batgirl.
<Johnathan> Back in Horam, Seth.. shortly before you..
* Tahn hops onto a cart going up. "Don't get yourself killed, Leon. Ramon isn't dead yet.
<Johnathan> ..ah..
<TheStoryteller> It's a simple pulley system.. it could fit all of you, by your figuring..
<Johnathan> ...used that 'charming' spell on Bree, or tried to.
<Seth> Bat girl?
<Leon> Someone tried to charm Bree?
<Johnathan> I think she still wants to kill you, by the way.
<Leon> ...what kinda of idiot tries to charm a lesbian..?
* Tahn blinks.
<Tahn> .oO(Subtle as a brick.)
<Johnathan> A lesbi.. BREE is a..?
<Seth> A wha...?
<Leon> You mean you didn't know?
* Johnathan blinks.
* Haylee snicks. ^^;
<Haylee> Blunt, aren't we?
<Johnathan> No.. I didn't.
<Leon> Why do you think she's been so pissed at you, Haylee.
<Seth> I'll ask her that.
<Haylee> Oh don't worry, I know.
<Haylee> I figured it out on my own.
<Seth> See if you're right...
<Leon> Anyway..
<Haylee> ...Well..almost. ^^;
* Leon cracks his knuckles.
<Johnathan> ..that's..
<Leon> This Seth character tried to charm her?
<Johnathan> ..heck, that's unnatural.
<Seth> And I'll remember to duck right before she hits me.
<Tahn> Actually, he may or may not have.
<Leon> Actually, kid, you'd better watch out for me, not her.
<Leon> Anyway..
<Leon> Let's go.
* Leon helps Celyna in.
<Seth> Male or female, doesn't matter really.
<Celyna> I'd agree with Leon, Seth.. ;)
<Seth> It's a unique gift I have...
* Johnathan blinks again. "..er.. actually... I don't really have the right to call someone unnatural... but still... huh."
<TheStoryteller> Celyna gets into the cart.. it seems sturdy.
<Haylee> Hm...let's just go up.
* Tahn looks up at Seth. "You reproduce asexually?"
<Seth> I can charm pretty much anyone... not for them to fall in love with me or anything...
* Leon grins slightly, "My ways tend to hurt a little more, too."
* Haylee blinks.
* Haylee gives Seth a look. "I hope you didn't try that with me."
<Leon> I hope he doesn't either.
<Leon> I kind of owe Johnathan one..
<Leon> so if he does it..
* Tahn looks at Hay. "Why would he? You were still in Horam."
<Leon> I'll throw his ass to the Blue Star...
<Seth> More or less it just lowers hositility from them against me....
<Haylee> ^^; He snuck into my room and kissed me on the lips...accidentally.
* Haylee glares a bit. ^^;
<Johnathan> Hey, Thanks, Leon. That'd save me the trouble of...
<Tahn> Nani?!
<Johnathan> ...he what?
<Leon> He did..?
* Tahn glares at Seth.
<Haylee> ^^; Tell them Seth.
* Seth scratches his head.
<Seth> Uh... heh heh.... yeah...
<Seth> I tripped over a shoe...
<Haylee> Likely. ;)
<Tahn> ...Suuuure you did.
<Seth> and I kinda landed on her lips on my lips...
* Leon looks at Johnathan, "Do you want me to throw him now, or after we get out of the mines?"
<Johnathan> ..let's get this elevator up a few levels so I can reduce him to a fine dust, please.
<Tahn> Me and Leon'll help, John.
<Haylee> ^^; Ah...erhm. Murder is bad...no matter how odd the person might be...
<Seth> Uh.. guys....
<Seth> May I remind you on how I got us out of there....
* Tahn pets Seth on the head. "Congratulations. You get to die. I pity you, really."
<Leon> There isn't a door made Tahn and I can't take down.
<Leon> So don't pat yourself on the back.
<Haylee> ^^; Guys! Guys!
<Johnathan> ..plus he helped Scott and I..
* Leon slaps Tahn on the back, "We've taken down several doors, haven't we?"
<Seth> Yes well uh...
<Celyna> What's that supposed to mean, Leon?
<Johnathan> ....unlike SOME people..
* Tahn glares at Leon and growls quietly.
<Haylee> ^^;Murder....bad! Okay?
<Tahn> .oO(Urge to kill...rising...)
<Seth> It wouldn't be a good idea to kill me....
* Seth mutters. "At least... not until I can find Emili..."
* Leon looks at Celyna, "That means Tahn always tends to end up being in the wrong place at the wrong time when I can't get a door open..so I grab the nearest object to break the door down with..which is normally..Tahn himself."
<Johnathan> But it's such fun, Haylee!
* Johnathan rolls his eyes.
<Johnathan> Anyway.. shall we get going?
* Celyna wideyes, then starts snickering.
<Haylee> ^^; Ah...John!
* Haylee giggles and playfully baps him!
<Leon> OK you two, no fucking here.
<Haylee> !
* Tahn chuckles. "Leon's right. Get a room."
<Haylee> ^^; Ah...erhm. Would you stop being so damn blunt about everything?
* Haylee blushes.
* Leon looks innocent, "Blunt? Me?"
<Tahn> If he didn't say it, I woulda. ^_-
<TheStoryteller> You're all in the cart/dumbwaiter... all that's left is to starts pulling ont he ropes to ascend..
<Haylee> . o O ( Of course...I wonder what John would look like without his robe on...and his pants...and his shirt...and... )
* Seth shudders at Haylee's thoughts...
<Leon> Haylee has a perverted look on her face.
* Johnathan blinks a few times. "F... a room? I think you're.. ah.."
* Tahn is probably glad the mental link is off.
* Haylee looks at Seth.
<Haylee> ~Gah! Dammit! You're a mindreader too!? Noooo!! ;_;
<Celyna> That's Leon for you. ^_^
<Seth> Umm.... telekentic....
<Leon> What's Leon for me?
* Haylee looks really embarrased and hides her face.
* Leon blinks at Celyna.
<Seth> I can read them... can't communicate with them though...
<Haylee> Ah...okay....
* Tahn answers for Celyna "Subtle as a train wreck."
* Johnathan looks at Seth and Haylee. "What?"
<Seth> errr... Nothing...
<Haylee> Nothing! ^^:
<Johnathan> ....Nothing, huh?
<Johnathan> ..right..
<Haylee> John...
* Haylee gives him a hug. ^_^
* Seth climbs up the shaft.
* Johnathan shakes his head, and laughs.
<Johnathan> Oh well... I've been clueless since day one with this group anyway.
* Tahn goes up the shaft. Can you dig it?
<Haylee> Nah.. ^^;
<TheStoryteller> You all yank at the ropes and pull the cart upwards into the darkness... hoping that at the end of it, Ramon waits...
<Seth> Hmmm....
* Leon goes up last, making sure everyone's gone before him.
<Haylee> You just don't want any mental links with me...so... ^^;
<Seth> I wonder what's up here.
<Seth> Most likely... some more caves.
<Johnathan> Mental links with...?
* Leon waves his finger at Haylee. "And you know that I'm completely against your mind link things."

Zaback Diamond Mines, Second Stratus

<Leon> My thoughts are mine..and no one else's.
<Haylee> Exactly.
<Haylee> Don't worry...I won't set one up unless you ask. ^^;
<Johnathan> ..you mean those were like.. something permanent?
<Haylee> Oh no!
<Johnathan> I thought you set up something at the trial and that was it?
<Haylee> I can take them down anytime. :)
<Haylee> And set them up anytime...it just allows me to talk to you telepathically. ^^
<TheStoryteller> You come to a stop by the second level drop off.. it seems you've went up quite a bit. What is on this level though, is for another time..

~~ SESSION END ~~

Session Close: Mon Nov 08 01:35:48 1999