Session Start: Sat May 19 21:01:42 2007 Session Ident: #lunar-iog2 * TheStoryteller changes topic to '-= Chapter 38 - Southern Discomfort | Location: Hylan to Takkar Road | Pools: 720 §, 4 MXP =- http://storen.rpgcafe.net/IoG/ | Everyone should copycat Saki in journals.' == SESSION START == Stopping for supplies and some planning with their old friend Emiria and her destroyer in Takkar, the group sorts out wht comes next. The barrier to the south sounds like it won't be easy to breach... and there will certainly be dangers to prepare for... << as the lude may or may not have taken place, you can start where you feel best. :o >> << to the brothel! I mean, uh >> * Etir is now known as Tanan * Vytor has been preparing for the trip the only way he knows how in these circumstances, he's getting supplies organized for a potentially long trip. There's a popular watering hole downtown near the general store that picks up as the day wears on, frequented by many locals and a handful of frontiersmen passing through. Called the "Six Gun Saloon", it is reputed to serve some great spirits. * Saki is restless, and nothing but. She aimlessly and listlessly pokes around town, desperately trying to kill time; it clearly isn't working. * Amy is now known as Niri * Vytor flips over his notepad, and starts reading, "Okay, let's see now..." * Angie bought a pitcher for the table, and she intends to get her share. She fills her mug and lifts it to her mouth with both hands like a child holding a milk glass. * Trune is being surprisingly productive. He's running about town, stopping in various stores for provisions and supplies the group might need before they set out. * Mikel has migrated his way to said watering hole in the lovely midday of New Takkar, contemplating what to drink to go with the food he's obtained here and there. Eventually he just asks the bartender to pick something he recommends, likely about to land himself somewhere between punch and piss drunk. Mikel gets a really strong drink named the "Slammer". It makes him feel like a million bucks one minute, then thrown into a brick wall the next! :o * Mikel is totally gone. @_@ * Vytor waits for Trune to return with the next batch of supplies before going further in his organization. But that's OK, there's like five other drunk bastards at the bar feeling just like the magician... [Patron] Hey buddy... you looks like an adventurin' type.. * Ryllan sits and drinks quietly with Angie, stewing. * Angie peers at Ryllan over the lip of her mug, eyes grinning. "You look unhappy." * Mikel glances up at the patron, blinking blearily a few times as he reels from the "Slammer". "Wah? Ah, yeh maan... all over th' place, craaazy shit, the works!" * Saki , after her lengthy jaunt around town, merely lurks in a corner near the group's tables. She's done her travelling preparations multiple times already. Well, to be fair, I AM about to go up to the Prophetess and offer to go best two out of three. * Trune heads back to the Destiny, two large bags slung over his shoulders. They both look fairly heavy, but Trune manages to carry them without too much trouble, aside from a slight bit of sweat on his brow. [Patron] Yeah.. some good ssshit here... makin' me forget the royal ass beating I got yesterday at them Barrier-thing... * Tanan is sitting on top of the destiny, scribbling away in his notebook. Hey Trune. Need a hand? Nah, I got it. * Mikel sways in his seat a bit, eyes focusing in and out. "Beatin'? Barrier? Bloke like yerself? Musta been somethin' /huge/." OK * Tanan doesn't bother looking up, but calls down with a "Hi, Trune." * Angie snorts and puts back another swallow from the mug. "That's what the beer's for," she says. She sets the mug down and traces its rim with a finger, fixing Ryllan with serious eyes. "Look. There's no getting around it at this point. If we lose, we'll lose super awesome like. This is the "eat, drink, and be merry" part." * Trune heads towards Vytor and plops both bags to the ground, "I got some dried meat, pancake mix, water...basically anything that'll save. Got a couple of maps too. Dunno how helpful they'll be since we're going towards unexplored land but they had a two for one special and I can't resist a good deal." * Saki flicks her eyes towards Mikel's conversation, paying half an ear's attention to it; Angie's sudden movements catch her eye shortly afterwards. * Ryllan chuckles, "The last hurrah?" He downs his own beer. [Patron] Them stupid Meribian bullies. Thinkin' they got the rights o tell me where I can't go! Excellent. I think with this load, we have everything we need. *checks more items off on his list* [Patron] They was jus' lucky I was outta ammo.. yeah.. * Mikel blinks. Could he be snapping out of his dru- no, nevermind. "Meribians? Down in those parts? Ain't that a tad far from home?" Awesome. * Angie nudges the pitcher over. "Have another. If the rest of 'em don't come by until we're done with it, they can buy their own.' She dips her hand into a bowl of peanuts, juggling them in her palm and then tossing them back, chewing thoughtfully. By the way, if you're wondering where everyone else is, I think they're in the bar getting soused. Saw Mikel go in there a little while ago. [Patron] Damn squatters is what they are. sitting there with this big wall and a gun, preachin' bout zombies coming to eat mah family. Greedy lies, they jus' want that land for 'emselves... psh * Saki frowns across at the man for a longer beat, then nods towards Angie and Ryllan. "Some kind of problem." They do know we have a small amount of alcohol we're taking with us, right? Its not like we're going dry on this trip. Z-Zombies, eh? Th' hell is up with that? I'm sure they do, but some people'll use any excuse to drink. Are they really getting dr-... I suppose that's a stupid question, huh. * Tanan leans over to look down * Ryllan sighs, "Lovely. Unfortunately, I don't think we have time to help. Lure's time-sensitive." Do bears shit in the woods? I bet you ten silver they're ALL drunk. Each to their own I guess. * Saki tilts her head. "... that's what I'm worried about. Stopping people getting in may include us." [Patron] I dunno, bub. That's what they were sayin'... and they ain't moving for nobody. If'n leon was around... Eh. Bears'll shit _anywhere_ The man proptly looks mad, then a little sick from all his drinking, bowing his head. We're taking the boat, aren't we? I'd be very impressed if they could block the ocean. Let them have their fun. Its going to be a fairly long trip, I think Yeah, I guess so. * Saki shrugs, more to herself than as an outward expression. "Somehow, I wouldn't be surprised any more. We should at least be going before they decide to try moving their way here. Or getting Mikel sober, at least." * Angie looks up from her drink. "I wonder what kind of zombies they are. Maybe we should look into it on the way back." Well, let's get the Destiny loaded, and then we can move into the holding bay. Hold your horses! We «ooc: nuke » * Ryllan sips more booze, "Yeah, on our way back." He pauses, then yells, "MIKEL! You're cut off!" Hold your horses! We're going off to get killed, the least we can do is have a good time first. * Angie polishes off the rest of the beer and grabs the pitcher to pour herself another one. "I'm not doing anything until I'm drunk." * Mikel nods slowly, addled brain sloooowly digesting this. He gives the guy a pat on the back before sliding off his stool and swaying his way back towards the group's table. He gives Ryllan a hurt look, waving a hand. "Aw man! I only had that... that one drink. That was a really good drink, you all should have it too." * Vytor starts lugging bags into the cargo area of the Destiny. After that drink, Mikel will be having a good time half-way south. There's some good old country music and a lively floor. In the background a few arguements rage about who's a better shot, and a game of darts is going on in the corner.. * Saki raises a perplexed eyebrow. "... I thought you were the optimist. Unless we switched." * Angie gestures to Mikel's drinking buddy with a jerk of her elbow. "Who's your friend?" she asks. [Patron] Zzzz... mrgh.. zombies.. eatin' ma brains... * Tanan climbs down and gives Vytor a hand Dunno! Poor guy ran into them Meribians down south and got beat. * Mikel manages to get into a seat, shaking his head to little effect. You know his name? Thanks Tanan. Newp. He's jus' a fellow enjoyer of that... that drink. Slammer, that's it. [Bartender] Hey, aren't you folks friends of celyna's? * Angie excuses herself from the booth, taking her drink with her. "You might say that," she says. * Saki looks distinctly unimpressed, but that's not exactly unusual at present. No problem. Someone has to load this up while everyone's getting wasted. The manager of the place is a mustacho-ed frontierman, in a sand colored hat and a set of suspenders. He's polishing a few shotglasses and a bottle of Carribian rum. Someone has to be responsible, right? ;) * Angie leans up against the booth divider, cupping her mug in both hands and looking over the manager. * Tanan makes a dismissive gesture. "Oh, they'll be plenty responsible for whatever they wind up doing." * Vytor dusts his hands off as he finishes, "OK Tanan, you take the wheel, I'll go tell Emiria to open the cargo door for you." [Bartender] mmm, you're the Baker's girl, aren't you? haven't seen you 'round these parts inawhile. In from another sea voyage? * Tanan takes a quick look around to make sure they're not missing anything, then nods and heads for the driver's seat. * Mikel blinks a couple of times more, rubbing his forehead and attempting to focus. "One 'ell of a drink.." * Trune takes a deep breath, and stands up, "Anything else that needs to be grabbed or packed, Vy?" * Angie dons her brightest smile and raises her glass. "That's me," she admits. "Just heading out on one, actually. We're putting out to see tomorrow." I think we're actually as ready as we're going to be. [Bartender] haha.. you be careful out there now. There's been all sorts of rumors and even some colonial-types around lately. * Saki pipes up with a wry smile. "We're more than aware." Trune, can you go the pub and let everyone know our supplies are ready? We don't have a whole lot of room left for things anyway, what with the.. thing in the back. I'm hearing that. What kinda rumours? * Trune grimaces, but slowly nods, "Yeah...I can do that. I just hope I don't meet any drunken resistance or anything." Fortunately, we do have additional stores on the ship, Tanan. Emiria's been on top of that. If you do, you have my permission to set fire to their pants. * Trune brigthens, "Seriously?!" [Bartender] Well, you probably heard already bout the undeads roaming the ruins far to the south. Explorer's had been dying... then the Meribian government came and sealed the land bridge off with a big wall and a hefty escort. Only if they give you trouble. *waggles a finger warningly* * Mikel mumbles something about land grabbing under his breath. [Bartender] I figure they're still playing guard dogs down there, though a little lighter after the whole assassination. How long this been going on for? [Bartender] Noone really knows what's in those ruins and the jungles beyond it -- I reckon it's been sealed for a couple months now. Heheh. of /course/. Trouble. Eheheh. * Vytor hustles up the gankplank for the ship's command center, figuring Emiria is there. * Trune whistles and heads off towards the bar. * Angie nods toward the dozing drunkard slumped over the bar. "Folks go down there very often before the blockade?" [Bartender] Ah, don't mind Thomas here. He likes to tell stories.. and not pay his tabs... but yeah, you know how we folk are. red-blooded freedom lovers! If there was a zombie problem going on, Meribia should let us solve it ourselves. * Trune sticks his head inside the bar, "Hey! We're movin' out! You guys coherent?" * Tanan watches Vytor go, shaking his head. "...Did he just tell Trune it was ok to combust their pants?" * Vytor knocks on the door to the bridge, and decides to have a litlte fun, "Captain Razgriz! A civilian gentleman to see you, sir!" * Mikel swivels to face Trune. "'ey! Trune! C'mere! You need to try this one drink!" Let him in! I run an open ship. Uh...for my own sake...Nah. I'll pass, Mikel. Oh come on! [Bartender] Time and again we harass the gatekeepers, thinking one day they'll decide to just go home and let us investigate the place. We got some silver bullets and fire adepts, too, you know... [Bartender] But regualr folks keep thinking there's something valuable there we ain't being told about. * Vytor steps inside the bridge smartly, and snaps to attention, "Sir! Supplies have been loaded onto the Destiny. Ensign Wardin requests the cargo bay doors to be opened, sir!" * Angie grimaces toward Thomas. So much for that idea. Not one to be daunted by a minor setback, she faces the bartender. "See, that's exactly what I think. We're doing a little expedition down there," she says, choosing her words with care. One finger traces the rim of her mug. "They can block the land, but they can't do much about the sea." No, seriously! The last time I got drunk I was hanging upside down over a balcony singing 'I am the Eggman, I am the Walrus' and trying to cure a headache. I'd really rather not repeat the experience. Leah is outside the bar, meanwhile, looking cross that they won't allow kids or pets inside. :| I've got a perfect cure for that stuff! Come on! * Emiria is sitting back on the command chair, boots perched on top of a dark console. She waves the end of her long, braided hair at Vytor in greeting. She smiles delightedly at the act. "I'll give the order to open the thing. What's up with your uniform, sailor?" Man, you are drunk. You didn't even hear a word I said! Sir! Owing to a the fact that Takkar doesn't actually have a Navy, there are no official uniforms as of yet. Sir! One drink! One drink for good luck! * Saki blinks twice, steps over, and punctuates Trune's statement by grabbing Mikel's attention. Or, alternatively, just Mikel, lifting him by his collar a couple of inches off the ground. She appears to be paying attention to his feet, and how long they take to notice the ground's gone. The proprietor leans in closer to Angie. "Mm, you got a point there. I know for a fact that there's only a few patrol boats around there. But we don't have much of a navy, and merchants don't want to risk it." * Emiria frowns and tilts her face upwards, considering the issue. "That's true. What a shame... you're excused then, just this once." * Mikel gets hoisted. * Mikel glances down. I--heh. Thanks Saki. Uh-oh. Thank you sir! A few patrons notice Saki hoisting Mikel up and start to get a good laugh. * Vytor can't resist the urge any longer, and breaks into a grin, "How did I do?" * Saki frowns. "... faster than I expected." * Mikel slowly turns to look at Saki. "Heeey." * Emiria stretches and lowers her feet onto the metallic floor, smiling back. "Pretty good. I think. I've never really seen any kind of army greetings outside of books." * Angie tilts her head; her lips curl into a slight smile. "Well, you know, the Fragarach is a big ship. We're shipping out bright and early tomorrow, but we'd be willing to bring some folk past the barrier for, say, 200 silver a head. We can't stick around to help with whatever people want to do down there, but New Takkar folk can take care of themselves, I figure." * Saki would answer Mikel, but is a little too busy looking vaguely horrified in Angie's direction. Nor have I, so I was winging it. * Mikel swings his feet back and forth. "Lemme down!" * Ryllan raises an eyebrow at Angie, but says nothing. In any case, we've to the last of our supplies loaded into the Destiny, so I think we're finally ready to go. That is when Trune finishes rounds folks up. [Bartender] Well, I tell you what, Miss Baker. If y'all are that confidant, how about I pass the word around for you? There's quite a few citizens who'd jump at the chance to get down there, even if it was a one way trip... * Saki drops Mikel, without much ceremony; it's only a bare inch or two to the floor. Huh. What's taking them so long? * Trune grins and leans down so that Mikel can see him, "Sober up. We're leavin', and Vytor gave me permission to light your pants on fire if you don't move." I think its because one or more of them is possibly drunk. * Mikel stumbles for a couple of moments, swaying back and forth in some odd sense of drunken balance as he heads for the door, passing by Trune. "I've got it. Gimme... a bit..." Out the door, off to the side without noticing Leah, and suddenly he looks like he's focusing. * Mikel aims a hand at his face as a burst of water comes forth, giving him a cold wake up! * Emiria looks pleased. "Ohh. They're celebrating the Harmonic Engine? They should have invited me." I'm not so sure that's what they're celebrating. * Angie nods. "I can't guarantee if or when we'll be able to pick you folk up again, but you should at least be able to get back through the barrier going the other way if we can't catch you coming back." * Trune just stares at Mikel and bursts out laughing! Right...uh...seeya on the Destiny. * Emiria drums her fingers on the command console, then steps to another set of panels to get the cargo bay door open. "They darn well should!" [Bartender] That sure ougtta surprise those smug Meribians. * Vytor walks over to a side window, "I think the machine still makes some of them a little nervous." * Trune steps out of the bar, still chuckling. Apparently the sight of a guy spraying water at himself is pretty hysterical. [Leah] Mikel! What did I miss? "Hell, it makes -me- nervous, but that doesn't stop me from seeing that it's only the most important development since the discovery of willforce." * Tanan starts up the destiny and carefully manuvers it into the cargo bay True. I just hope we can control it. Its extremely new, and we don't yet know the long-term ramifications of it. * Saki hovers for a moment, before at length shrugging her shoulders and giving in. "... well, I suppose it can hardly hurt to take some passengers." [Bartender] Alright, Ms Baker, I'll go start up the ol' rumormill and see what I can dig up. 200 a head seems fair, with a little cut for me of course... oh and don't worry about the bill, it's on the house tonight. * Vytor watches as the Destiny crawls into the cargo hold. * Emiria drums her feet nervously, stepping over to watch the Destiny's progress. "... mm. Was that the first time Angie's thought up this kind of stuff?" That I know of. * Angie beams. "You're a good man," she says, raising her glass before taking a sip. She waits until he departs, then reclaims her seat, smirking at Saki. * Trune heads back to the Destiny with a grin on his face, "They're coming, folks. Some may take a bit longer than others, though." * Tanan pauses, backs up a little to get a better angle, and finishes driving in * Emiria turns around and leans against the wall, frowning. "I'm a little... jealous, to tell you the truth." Jealous? * Saki scratches at her scalp for a few moments, mulling the situation over. "... we're either going to get lynched or held up as saviours," she concludes at last. Maybe both! That can happen, you know. Yeah. I wanted to be the one to discover something like that... I thought the Fragarach had finally given me my big break; my chance to make something new. But when Angie showed me her thing, I couldn't even understand how it worked. To be honst, I don't either. She starts to explain it and everything goes fuzzy. * Saki raises one eyebrow. "... oh good," she tacks on to Ryllan's reply, closing her eyes. * Emiria drums her fingers against the metallic wall. "Yeah. But in the end, she's made this... this thing, and it feels like it leaves most of what I've done behind in importance. Gah, don't -you- feel jealous?" But here's something for us to consider, that might help you feel better. It did for me. What's this about jealousy now? What'd I miss? I was busy getting drunk people. * Tanan gets out and walks around to make sure the destiny is more or less in place Hey Trune. * Emiria blinks, noticing Trune. "Eh? Ah, er..." So we have this new toy, and we're using it against the Prophetess. OK, fine. Then what? Everything seems to be in order, as far as Tanan can tell... the logistics of the trip is falling into place. Assuming we finish saving the world, what applications can it be used for? There's a whole world of possibilities, but someone has to figure out how to make them not only work safely, but in a way that can be used by others. * Emiria wrinkles her nose. "Then we look for ways to use it... but, somehow, Vytor, all I can think of is how it could be a weapon and how it's dangerous- and it's both glorious and dreadful, and I want it to be mine, but it isn't!" * Ryllan suddenly, struck by a notion, raises his glass, "I'll say something more profound later, as we get closer, but right now, I just wanted to say. It's been a fine pleasure to work with both of you crazy ladies. And well, whether this works or not... I wouldn't go into it with anyone else." To insanity. * Emiria rubs her forehead, smiling awkwardly. "What am I saying? Never mind, I guess I'm a little stressed out because of the journey." ^^; More dangerous things are glorious. * Saki , in the absence of a drink, smirks just a little unpleasantly, snagging one of the empty mugs from the table and knocking it against Ryllan's glass lightly. "And to bloody-minded fools," she puts forth, eyes still closed. Besides, once we're all finished with this business, I'm sure Angie would be happy to let you start tweaking and playing with her designs. Its not always the person who comes up with the idea, sometimes its those who turn it into something incredible. * Trune glances at Emiria, trying to piece together what everyone's talking about. * Emiria smiles neutrally, pacing to the other end of the room. .oO( Why does it nag at me so? ) * Emiria waves her hand dismissingly. "I know- I'm just being childish, don't pay that any mind. Craftsman's vanity and so on. So, uh, how's everything going, Trune?" * Vytor chuckles. * Trune starts a bit as he's quickly addressed, "Uh...fine I guess. Just rounding up the others, findin' the elementlors, trying not to die. Same old, same old. You?" * Tanan comes up behind Trune, pausing at the door. "Destiny's loaded. Everyone on their way, Trune? We need to get sailing." Should be. Good. Sooner we can do this. Hey Tanan. * Emiria claps her hands and rubs them together, and starts pacing the bridge. "Good!" * Niri struggles in through the saloon's double doors, holding a couple large shopping bags. Get everything you need, Niri? I think so! I couldn't find any armadillo pelts though. * Angie raises a glass to greet Niri. "Hey, Niri! Come siddown, there's a bit left in the pitcher." * Niri winks to show she's joking. We'll just wait here for everyone to show. I figure they're on their way. I can always go back and really light their pants on fire if need be. Actually, now I kind of want to. * Niri drops her bags on the floor near the bar and leans over to sniff Angie's glass. She wrinkles her nose in distaste. "No thanks...but you enjoy yourself!" >> MEANWHILE, BACK AT THE BAR: I wonder if it would taste good if I put the peanuts in the beer. ...Ew. * Ryllan deadpans, "Yes, Angie, yes it would." No, really. Try it. * Emiria studies Trune curiously. "Oh. You can do Fire magic?" Eh. Give them a few. If they were right behind you, they should be here soon. Er, yes. Why? * Angie dumps the bowl of bar nuts into her glass, grinning a little maniacally. Bits of peanut dust float on the surface. "I'm holding you to that! If it's not good I'll sue." * Emiria crosses her arms and tilts her head, looking interested. "Show me?" * Ryllan maintains a careful poker face. * Niri stares at Angie in disbelief. * Trune looks a bit confused at the sudden interest, but shrugs and pulls out his athames, drawing a quick pattern in the air. The wake left behind is reddish in color, and once he finishes the design he opens a palm, and a small ball of fire appears burning inside of it. Wow, you're really drunk! * Saki gets up from the table at about the point where the nuts hit the beer. "... I'm heading back," she announces, without much preamble. She's back to looking a little twitchy and a lot restless. When she spies Angie's latest experiment she halts again, perplexed. * Angie slams back a long sip, diving boldly into the unknown. Whe she lowers the glass she has a fine moustache of peanut dust on her upper lip. She licks off a bit of it and takes the rest off with her napkin. "This is only like my fourth beer," she says, brandishing the glass menacingly at Niri. "I'm not drunk, I'm just BRILLIANT." * Vytor watches Trune with interest And gullible. How was it? * Emiria extends her left hand towards Trune and lowers and closes her eyes, concentrating on his spell. ".... focused, and bright..." It mostly tasted like beer. I guess it won't be noticeable until I get down to the bottom? [Bartender] Maybe you should quit while you're ahead.. wouldn't want to miss the boat tomorrow... Right! Brilliant. ;) Okay Saki, I might as well come with you then. Always thought it'd be useful to be able to light things on fire quickly and easily. * Emiria opens her eyes and nods at Trune, looking pleased. "Good! Nice technique." * Angie holds the mug up for Saki to get a better look. "It's an experiment," she says. "I'm a food experimenter." * Saki rubs at her forehead for a long beat, then nods in acquiescence. "I guessed. ... try not to get too brilliant. We'll see you back there." I guess I'll make sure Angie doesn't get into too much trouble. You heading to the ship? I'll be along before too long. * Trune smiles slightly, "Thanks." * Saki splits a nasty grin. "Someone should tell the others before they wonder why we're getting money thrown at us. See you later." Just about waiting for Niri, she departs. * Niri grabs her bags and struggles out the door after Saki! Well, if you'll all excuse me, I have to go find my captain's hat. You have a captain's hat? ...You have a c--what he said. She's captaining the ship. So why not? * Emiria looks at Tanan and Trune oddly. "Well, of course. First part of owning this ship is looking the part." * Tanan stares at Emiria Just I thought...well...I guess...er...okay? * Emiria stares back at Taran. "What." * Tanan reaches up and pinches the bridge of his nose. "Whatever. You win. Carry on." * Vytor chuckles * Mikel blinks a couple of times, finally done snapping himself out of the drunken haze with liberal application of ice cold water. He glances at Leah before shaking his head. "Don't ever try the Slammer if you need to be coherent." With that he's heading over to where the boat is, still a bit wet. * Emiria smiles. "Thanks, I like winning." * Saki waves at Leah absently as she passes, now shortly behind Mikel. "Angie and Ryllan are staying a little longer. ... Coming?" * Emiria heads out to the officer's quarters with a spring in her step. "The Iron WItch sails! Tremble in fear, denizens of the seas!" * Tanan walks back out onto deck, shaking his head By the way, for those who want to choose their own room, there's ample choices. (w)Strange. Haven't seen a girl so interested in a simple fire spell in...well...ever. * Mikel doesn't wait for Leah to reply to Saki. Eventually he'll be spotted by people on deck, looking a bit soaked. * Niri waves to Mikel. "Um...why are you all wet?" * Niri has stashed her bags somewhere on the ship. * Tanan waves to Mikel as he approaches the ship, and calls down. "Finally! Are the others close behind? We're ready to go." * Vytor goes to claim a room for himself. * Saki calls to those on the ship as the group get close. "... we've got new passengers coming in the morning." New passengers? * Mikel waves back to Niri and Tanan, shrugging. "Well, there's this reaaaaally strong drink called the Slammer... long story short I needed to snap myself out of it." He looks over at Tanan, mulling. "Depends on how much more Angie wants to drink." Morning? Wait Wait, what * Niri snrks. "Yeah, Angie was trying to drink peanuts when I left." * Tanan starts down to where Saki is * Saki does, to her credit, remain absolutely deadpan as she delivers her report. "Angie is charging people 200 silver a head for a one-way-trip past the Meribian soldiers blocking entry to the south," she explains levelly. ...she's what. * Tanan sighs, burying his face in his hands. * Saki corrects herself after a moment. "... not quite 200. The barman wanted a tip to spread it through the rumour mill." Rumor mill. Mother of.. * Trune 's mouth opens slightly in shock, "Aw man, she's crazy." * Tanan looks up. "All right, that's retarded. Who can show me where this bar is." Uh, this way. I'm surprised Ryllan didn't stop her. * Mikel turns right around and begins to walk. * Tanan follows Mikel, shaking his head * Niri blinks Angie seems to experiment with new types of insanity. * Mikel leads Tanan through the rough and tumble town to the drinking hole of lore. * Saki smirks in some kind of mirth, leaning against the gangplank of the ship. "... I'm half tempted to see if I can see the explosions from here." * Emiria (~saber@pc-171-156-44-190.cm.vtr.net) Quit (Connection reset by peer) She's seriously charging people to get them killed? I guess so? I left before she started /that/ business. * Mikel gestures towards a doorway. "Here we go." In he goes. Where's the entreprising one? Hey Niri? Wanna come with to see some hilarious shit? * Edelritter (~saber@pc-171-156-44-190.cm.vtr.net) has joined #lunar-iog2 * ChanServ sets mode: +v Edelritter Um...sure! I'm up for hilarious! Awesome! Let's follow them. Anyway, I'm ready to get going whenever, so...I haven't really got anything better to do till we get underway. * Tanan composes himself, and makes his way through the doorway. By the way, Vytor gave me permission to light some pants on fire. I still can't get over that. Ooh, fun! Can I help? * Trune follows Tanan and the others, content on just watching the upcoming spectacle for now, "Heh, didn't peg you for a sadistic type, but sure." Not sadistic! Just easily amused. Besides, it's called a joke. * Niri makes a face * Trune smirks, "I know, Princess." * Mikel glances around for Angie and Ryllan, heading to where they had been sitting. * Tanan looks around as well, then follows Mikel * Angie meets the others on her way out of the bar. "Oh! Hey," she says. "I was on my way, you didn't have to come get me." * Ryllan is following behind Angie, looking bored. * Tanan nods, carefully keeping his tone civil. "Ah, good. We were looking for you. We're ready to sail, as soon as everyone's on board." * Angie responds with a puzzled frown. "Right now? I thought we decided we were leaving in the morning." * Trune heads into the bar and keeps back near the doorway, content on watching for now, "Right here. Oh man the professor is gonna pop." * Tanan stares slightly over Angie's shoulder, not making eye contact. "We really don't have the time to waste, and Emiria's ready to go. We can sleep aboard ship as easily as we can here in town. Easier, since we won't have to find rooms." * Niri looks up from secretly tying tiny pink bows in Trune's hair. "Yeah, looks like everyone actually planned on leaving today, Angie." * Vytor picks out a small room for himself, and starts settling his things. * Mikel coughs. "What's with the offering people rides, too?" Is Ryllan here? Who else are we missing? * Ryllan looks at Tanan from behind Angie, "I'm here." * TheStoryteller changes topic to '-= Chapter 38 - Southern Discomfort | Location: New Takkar | Pools: 720 §, 4 MXP =- http://storen.rpgcafe.net/IoG/ | Everyone should copycat Saki in journals.' * Trune reaches back to brush some his hair back...and stumbles across a bow. Then another. Then another. His slowly turns back to Niri, "...Okay you are /SO/ dead now!" * Niri hides the hairbrush and giggles, poised to run. Y'know, Tanan, when you make plans, it's usually a good idea to follow them. * Mikel glances over at Trune, blinking... ... * Angie shakes her head. "It's not usually a good idea to put out to sea at this hour. It might cost us as much time as it buys. Also, who's "everyone"? Is this some sort of big conspiracy to mess with me? Because nobody said anything." * Mikel starts laughing. Call me sunshine? Fine. But pink bows...totally crossing the line of good taste! * Ryllan eyes Angie suspiciously, "Assuming the plan I got was a plan, anyway." You...you... Yes. I agree totally. This is why I'm wondering why you were in the bar drinking, when we were planning to leave. But it's so cute! * Trune shakes a fist, "Woman---person!" Agh! * Niri starts giggling and can't stop. * Tanan pointedly ignores Trune and Niri behind him. "But! All's well. No harm in a drink." Tanan, drop the oblivious act. You'd better sleep with one eye open, missy. \me looks positively affronted, and also a little drunk. "A whole bunch of us were there! Don't get snippy at me because we weren't in on your conspiracy to mix me up!" She exhales an angry puff of breath. "Anyway, we can't leave tonight. I made plans." Don't get mad! Girls love a guy who's not afraid to show his feminine side! Mikel's comments reveal that Saki already talked to you. Mm. If you want. You'll be the talk of the town. * Tanan pauses for a moment, then glares at Angie, his voice coming out almost in a snarl. "I don't know what the hell is wrong with you lately, between trying to gun down Venus and offering to drag people along and dump them in the middle of the jungle, but so help me heaven we are getting on that fucking boat and we are sailing out of here if I have to break both your legs and rivet you to the thing." * Trune glowers, "Just you wait. When you least expect it...bang!" * Mikel lifts a hand to point at Trune's pink bow'd hair, still laughing. "Ah god... that's PRIC-" He's cut short as Tanan starts, just kind of staring at the prof. You're not really angry. ;) If you were you wouldn't just stand there muttering threats! Besides, I'll make it up to you. I'll buy you lunch or something. << goddess, even >> Actually, it's not that...just I'd rather not completely steal Tanan's thunder. See? * Trune points. * Niri stops and blinks at Tanan, noting that he seems seriously angry. ...You have a point. * Angie says nothing right away. She folds her arms, tilts her head, and looks at Tanan through half-lidded eyes. It's hard to tell what she's thinking. * Niri leans over and mutters to Trune. "Tanan has a point, too. Wow. Don't think I've ever seen him smoldering with rage like that." * Ryllan quietly moves to interpose himself between Angie and Tanan, "Alright, this ends right the hell now." * Mikel edges a bit away from the confrontation and towards Trune and Niri, glancing at them. It's been a long time coming, I think. Angie's been a little ...off lately. For her, anyway. * Ryllan 's voice is quiet, but very firm. * Niri shrugs and shakes her head helplessly at Mikel. * Angie stumbles back a step, losing her composure, as Ryllan interposes himself. * Mikel mumbles towards them under his breath. (m)"Maybe we should get going or something?" (mutters) Well, yeah. I mean, I act crazy too, but there's a limit. And I do it in good fun. I'm not sure what Angie's trying to do. * Tanan attempts to point at Angie, but finds himself pointing at Ryllan. He pauses for a moment, then carefully resumes his earlier detatched mode of speech. "You told me to stop playing oblivious." (m) Wait a moment. I want to see if we're going to have to break up a fight. * Niri stares at Tanan and blinks. * Angie seems content to wait for the moment, staring at the back of Ryllan's head and waiting in interest to see what he has planned. * Ryllan looks over Tanan's shoulder at the mage trio and tersely shakes his head, hoping they notice, "There is a middle ground between being a prick and picking a fight." * Mikel fidgets a bit in place. (m)"Isn't that the same?" Mm. Yes. She's being a prick, and I'm picking a fight. (m) Any minute now Tanan is going to go all ninja and flip out and kill people. Nah...he won't. And you really think picking a fight is wise at the moment. Just trust me...he won't. (m) ...I think he's just going to chew Angie out, personally. If she's intending to drag people along and abandon them down there.. yes. Yes it is. In fact, I'd say it's imperative. ... I wasn't aware there was any dragging being involved here. * Ryllan turns his head to look at Angie, "Angie, are you forcing any people to take advantage ofyour offer, or misrepresenting the fact that there may not be a ride back?" Whether they're stupid enough to take her up on it or not, the offer itself is reprehensible. I thought I made it pretty clear that we didn't know when if ever we'd be coming back. Though I neglected to mention that it's because we're all going to die. * Angie sighs with an exasperated flutter of her lips and turns in the threshold, walking back into the bar. "This is gonna take a while. Come on, I'll buy you a drink." An offer to get people who know the risks where they want to go? I'm confused, Tanan. What exactly is it that you find so horrible? I don't think more drinking is a good idea, Angie. * Angie is already inside! The only way to chide her now is to follow boldly into the bar. Or talk really loud. * Trune puts what he thinks is two and two together about Angie, an idea forming in his mind, " ...She's scared?" * Mikel smacks his hand against his forehead. Scared? We're not. In this. To get. Extra people. Killed. Also. We. Do not. Have. The time. To waste. Scared of what? I dunno. The comment about all of us dying...getting plastered. Also, who's going to go in there and bodily drag Angie out? Well, that risk has been there pretty much all along, or at least ever since the Prophetess turned up. * Trune shrugs, "If you think about it, Niri, there's a lot she could be scared of." * Mikel shakes his head. (m) "Ryllan or Tanan can." * Ryllan closes his eyes, then touches Tanan on the shoulder, "Alright, here's what we do." Angie always acts like the type who isn't scared of anything. Go inside, apologize, tell her that we'll leave tomorrow, but that she needs to sleep on the ship because... hell, I don't know. I'm delegating. Make something up. I'll clear things up with the bartender and follow you back. Soon as I'm aboard... Everyone's scared of something. People who aren't...those are the people to be afraid of, really. Oh, I never said Angie didn't scare me sometimes. No...that's not what I meant. Mmm. Because, you're right, we don't have the time to argue about this. Particularly not as long as it would take to get Angie to agree to anything. * Tanan looks into the bar, at Angie. "How many's she had? She's probably smarter than we are. Honesty might be easier." Someone remind me to devise a song that can put people to sleep. It would come in awfully handy right now. Enough to come up with this scheme. * Mikel glances at Niri, shrugging. "Sure. Can do it while we're ont he boat." Great, it's a plan. ...tell you what. Let me try it my way. If it fails, I can 'give up' and you can do it your way. Rather, the polite my way Go for it. I dunno, I find this new Tanan pretty entertaining. (vq) And... Action! Like I said. Hilarity ensues. * Tanan nods slightly, and walks into the bar towards Angie. * Ryllan follows Tanan in, /just/ in case. * Angie is sitting at the counter. She's spinning an empty wooden bowl on its side. At Tanan's approach she looks up. "Took you a while," she says, patting the stool beside her. "Siddown." * Niri pulls out her packet of bows and eyes Mikel's hair consideringly. * Tanan sighs, putting his hands on the table and leaning on them. "Sorry. Got carried away. Stress is getting to us all." * Angie grunts her assent. "I'm sure we agreed we were leaving tomorrow," she says, mollified by his conciliatory tone. "It's only sensible to leave in the morning, and this is my last night here for who knows how long." * Mikel blinks at Niri. "...what are you planning?" * Niri stuffs the bows in her pocket. "Nothiiiiiiiiiiing." I'm sorry. To be honest, the first I heard we were leaving tomorrow was about ten minutes ago. We're all loaded up and ready to go. I don't want to just railroad you out of town, but we don't know how long it'll take for the prophetess to do whatever she's doing down there. We might not make it in time as it is, though sailing will certainly help us. And honestly... the boat more or less sails itself, morning or night. * Mikel eyes Niri, reaching up to run a hand through his slightly moist hair almost protectively. "Uh-huh." * Trune is quiet now, looking thoughtful. * Niri looks the picture of innocence. * Mikel looks unconvinced as he stares down Niri. ...What? I haven't done anything! * Angie lets go of the wooden bowl and it wobbles to a stop. She stares at it. "I don't think they'll start without us," she murmurs, "not without Saki and the piece of Noah. Every time we try to rush it ends up getting us nowhere. I just wanted to spend a night in the place where I fucking live. I mean, I was even going to sleep on the ship, instead of with my family." It's not like I'm not THINKING about the time, it's just...and just because it has magic autopilot or whatever doesn't mean it's a good idea to leave in the dead of night! * Mikel points at Trune's hair. Am I going to have to sleep with one eye open or something? Well, Trune obviously doesn't mind! He hasn't taken the bows out or anything. * Mikel snickers. "Yeah, well, that's why he's Sunshine and I'm not." ...Oh fuck I haven't have i? * Niri giggles * Trune quickly takes out the bows, embarrased. Don't worry, Mikel. I do stuff like that because Trune loves it when I tease him. ;) I am immune to such nicknames, after all! I'll leave your hair alone if you want. Oh, of course. * Tanan looks up at the ceiling. "Where you live, huh." * Mikel smirks. "You're welcome to try, Niri! Just don't expect success." Such nicknames? What about Pickle? Soggy? * Mikel tilts his head. "...Pickle? The hell?" * Niri sporfles I like Soggy Pickle! Mikel....Pickle. It barely rhymes!...Work with me here! ...Sporfles, the hell? It's almost as good as Flower Poop. << strike >> Flower Poop? The hell? * Mikel makes a face. "Soggy Pickle. Soggy. Pickle. Just /think/ about that." Sure. You're so full of sunshine and rainbows that even your poop smells of flowers! Not that I'd care to test that. I just think it sounds funny. Well, Mikel, pickles are naturally soggy. Beyond that...what am I supposed to be thinking about? >> "And that's another thing!" A bit of ire leaks back into Angie's voice. "You act like I'm some kind of pied piper leading people to their doom here. This is New Takkar. I don't know what it's like wherever you're from but New Takkar people are tough." Mostly that it makes no sense. Who said nicknames had to make sense? * Trune suddenly bursts out laughing at Niri's comment. Oh man...oh man, Niri. Don't change. Don't EVER change. * Mikel ...suddenly lets out a groan and smacks his forehead. "Goddess dammit, Trune." ...Ooh. And here I thought you guys were on the verge of getting so annoyed you'd knock me out with an empty beer bottle and leave me in an alleyway somewhere! What? Oh come on! Even I'm not that cruel. * Tanan sounds a little abstracted. "Where I'm from." ...of course not. That'd be un-gentlemanlike. * Mikel does a little bow and everything. * Niri giggles * Tanan shakes his head. "Look, if you want to blockade run, that's fine. But we can do it afterwards. There'll either be plenty of time, or it won't matter." * Angie throws Tanan a sharp, sideways glance. "I thought you were opposed to it on MORAL grounds," she says, tone probing. * Mikel shrugs. "Anyways! I thought nicknames had to at least relate a bit. We all know Trune hides his inner sunshineness behind that mask of sarcasm!" * Tanan waves a hand. "If we're with them and they have a way back, that's called exploring." * Niri nods solemnly. "Trune is a big fluffy teddy bear deep down." Session Time: Sun May 20 00:00:00 2007 * Trune chuckles, "Right. Sure." * Angie grunts. "You know, I /said/ I might not be able to bring them back again," she complains. "I figured if we dropped them off a bit south of the blockade they could make their way back up on their own; above there it's not too wild, these are people who go down at least that far on their own." See? He didn't even get mad when I said that! That's how you know it's true. That's quite a bit out of our way, though. No, I'm just not even gonna go for the bait. .......I wonder how the conversation is going inside. * Mikel snickers. "She's got you there. But yeah! A nickname that would work would b-" He stops himself, shaking his head. "Wait wait not gonna dig my own grave." See, Mikel? I am way smarter than you. Don't go for her bait. * Tanan dips a finger into a mostly empty glass and moves it along the table, smearing a rough curve of the land on its surface. Barrier's here, and that big river from Webbly's picture's way over here. * Tanan frowns. "Unless we're planning to abandon the boat near the barrier anyway" * Angie strokes her mouth. "I dunno," she says, "do you think it would? We've got to go past the barrier anyway. I figured we could unload people pretty gast and continue on." She sputters into her hand, exasperated. "I dunno. It's all up to Saki. I'm not convinced we'll be able to get through that river anyway, no matter how big it is, so we won't know till we get there where we need to hit land." Although you're the one with actual nicknames. * Tanan makes another line, heading southeast. "Why follow the shore though? The ship's already proved itself on the open ocean." * Tanan shakes his head. "Look. I don't know. We've still got a few hours before dinnertime. If it's really important to you, maybe we can spare the time. Fighting the pull isn't hurting Saki all that much, I hope." Psh. I call her littlebit or Princess and she gets crazy. It's a nice two way street of name-calling. But time's running out in more ways than one. * Tanan sighs, standing up. "Whatever. Whatever. I'm not going to just drag random people down there, though." * Angie makes a streak through Tanan's drawing with her fingertip, then sticks her finger in her mouth, looking glum. "Mmm," she murmurs. "Okay," she says, heaving a sigh and leaning back as far as she can without tipping over. "But you get to go get me out of this arrangement, and explain that it's your fault!" She nods to the bartender. "He's over there." * Mikel raises an eyebrow. "Yet you're the one who ended up with pink bows." Mmm. He a friend? Do I have to be nice? ...Okay. Point taken. Damn. * Mikel does a little bow. "A good match." * Angie shrugs. "If you get into a fight I'm not helping," she says, then, as an afterthought, adds, "I don't know him, really." Ah! Fair enough then. * Tanan smiles faintly, then straightens up and heads for the bar. * Niri eyes Mikel and Trune suspiciously. "You are both making fun of me." The bartender serves another round of drinks as the place is filling up. he doesn't look too busy just yet, though. The name he goes by is Jake Johnson, but a lot of patrons seem to call him Snake Eyes. * Trune sighs, and stretches, "Feh. I'm gettin' tired and Tanan and Angie are takin' light ages. I'm gonna head back to the ship. Also, yes. We are. Slow on the uptake!" * Angie communicates the information that was just narrated to Tanan. * Niri punches Trune lightly on the shoulder. "Okay, yeah, let's head back to the ship. I'm not interested in joining them and getting drunk." [Jake] *notices Tanan approaching* What'll it be ? * Tanan shakes his head. "Nothing, I'm afraid. It's about the boat trip south." [Jake] Suit yourself -- eh, don't tell me your ladyfriend's backing out? * Mikel smiles at Niri. "Making fun of you? Never!" * Niri shakes her fist. "You just be careful, or you'll waken with pretty hair in the morning!" I'd pay to see that. * Mikel turns and starts to head back to the ship. "That eager to get to me during the night, hm?" Also, Mikel? Down boy. She's not. I am. It's my fault, she didn't realize how far south we were going. It's.. unlikely anyone would ever find their way back to the barrier from there without a ship. * Trune can't help but smirk and shakes his head as he heads back to the ship. * Tanan tilts his head a little, watching the bartender. "And I'm afraid we might not be able to offer a ride back." ...Hey! * Niri colors and runs after the two boys on their way to the ship. [Jake] I can understand your point, though it is a cryin' shame. Got my hopes up a bit. * Mikel whistles an innocent tune. [Jake] We folk can handle ourselves in the frontier, though, I can tell you that much. It's a golden opportunity for the adventurous-types. But, them's the breaks. * Tanan shrugs. "If everything goes well, we'll be back eventually, and then who knows. We can mount a proper exploratory investigation and start up north. See what's all there whether those people at the barrier like it or not." [Jake] In that case, you're welcome to come back and tell the tales of what's on the other side. Might not have to pay anyone then, partner. Hmm. Yes, we'll see! Sorry about that. * Tanan gives a sort of half-wave and heads back over to Angie [Jake] You keep Miss Baker safe now, y'hear? * Ryllan turns and slips out of the bar, upon hearing peaceful resolution. * Tanan glances back. "Certainly try." * Mikel at some point speeds up if it looks like Niri is going to attack of course. * Angie follows Tanan out of the bar in a slouch, hands in her pockets. "And don't think I forgot about the thing with Venus! We're gonna have a talk about that once we save the world." * Tanan pauses mid-step, starts to turn, then shakes his head and starts walking again. "Right. We should." * Angie mumbles into her collar as she walks through the dusty, lamplit streets. It's impossible to make it out, though. As the group heads back to the ship, they find Leah near the gangplank to the vessel, waving excitedly. Next to her is standing a very tall, heavyset man with a thick beard, clad in a brown duster and a red beret. And behind him is a lithe, young woman with short blue hair and the raiments of a karate fighter... Some mebers would recognize her as Yuriko, a participant that lost via default to Saki. * Mikel blinks, glancing at Trune and Niri. "Who are those two?" << or rather Ryllan >> Oh what don't tell me he already sent people here. That's. How. You were in the bar, wouldn't he have [Leah] Hey everyone!! Guess who I met!! The girl with blue hair looks familar, but I'm not sure where I've seen her before. * Vytor watches with interest from the railing [Explorer] Well if it isn't Niri and her merry little band! * Ryllan smiles as he approaches the boat, "Yuriko, a pleasure to meet you again. I was sorry to hear about your troubles in the tournament." Niri instantly recognizes the bellowing voice.. it's Laike, leah's father and a rival of sorts to her father Hiro! Yuriko smiles once and bows to Ryllan. "Ryllan... so it was true you were journeying to investigate the mysterious woman? I was recovering from the injuries and couldn't visit sooner." * Niri grins widely! * Vytor recognizes Yuriko, but not the other guy. * Mikel blinks, glancing at Niri, then back at the guy. "...wait, hot damn." Yeah, I'm part of this band of crazies. >> The surprise guest jolts Angie out of her funk. She perks up her ears, interested in the exchange. Oh wait, that's...oh! Saki's around here somewhere too. Wait, this is the girl from the tournament? Hi, Laike! How have you been? ..sorry, that was rude. You were darned impressive. Leah hugs onto the leg of the man otherwise known as Dyne Caldor. "Yeah, this is my dad! In't he great?" << isn't >> Not as great as my dad! No offense, sir. * Niri winks [Laike] Oh same old, same old, Nirika. Your dad has really upstaged me with his whole dig. I've been lookin' for a new ruin to one -up him. Haha. * Niri grins. Clearly this is an old argument between her and Leah - who's dad is more awesome. [Laike] And look at you, going on your own little adventures into the unknown without your old man? You're growing up lass... Well, you might actually do it this time, since I'm not around to help him! But watch out, 'cause you know we'll always make a comeback. * Mikel raises an eyebrow. "Why do I have a feeling I know where this is going to end..." << Also bah. Who's=whose >> Yeah...maybe we should stay out of it. Where? 'Cause if you're thinking of a race with the Destiny... [Yuriko] Why thank you, professor Tanan, was it? Ooh. I just had the most awesome idea. * Ryllan silently walks up to the railing and starts hitting his head on it. Repeatedly. * Mikel 's expression suddenly brightens as he grins. "A race?" * Vytor watches Ryllan with some concern * Ryllan looks up just long enough to say, "No, Niri, get that thought out of your head, please, we're not reopening this discussion. We just finished it. * Angie is briefly distracted by Ryllan's antics, but she figures he can take care of himself. * Ryllan goes back to head --> Railing. I can just see it now. Mikel, Laike, and my dad, head to head! With me as Dad's copilot and Leah with Laike, and Trune with Mikel! * Niri giggles Sorry Ryllan. Oh, different thought. That's okay then. I like where this is going. I really really like it. * Ryllan stops injuring himself. [Laike] Racing, mm? I heard that you may be in a little "race against the clock" right now, Nirika. We'll need a course and other vehicles. * Tanan nods What did you THINK I was talking about, Ryllan? * Angie arches an eyebrow. "Word gets around! It's a shame it doesn't get around to New Meribia." [Yuriko] Professor, Ryllan.. is Saki still traveling with you? * Niri turns to Laike. "Oh, you mean with the Prophetess? Yeah. Though I suspect she won't actually move until we get there...she has this strange obsession with waiting for us to be 'witnesses.' Don't know why." Yes, she should be onboard. Yeah. The fate of the world hangs in the balance....but nah, we gotta go racing first! I didn't say "first"! [Yuriko] I see. How has she been since the tournament? I admit I've been a bit worried. Almost first? How about /right after/? Leah claps, liking the suggestion. Okay, that works. Priorities and all. * Niri grins. * Tanan stares at Yuriko for a moment or two. "It's.. hard to explain. She's mostly on top of things. We're all run a little ragged lately. Did you want to talk to her?" Laike rubs his chin. "Right, lass. But as to that first problem.. care for some help? I heard there's some undiscovered ruins in those deep jungles and zombies to practice my swordplay on." [Laike] A winning combination if I ever saw one. And you don't even have to pay me 200 silver like those cowardly joes at the bar. * Mikel rubs his forehead. "They...uh... just had an arguement about that. Uhm." Um. * Tanan pulls off his hat and spikes it into the ground. "Absolutely not! We have too many NPCs mucking up battles as it is. The rounds take forever! You're not coming and that's final." << . . . >> First of all, They were going to pay us. <<...kill that. ;)>> << actually they won't interfere at all ;) >> Secondly, we should not be reopening this discussion. * Angie makes a face. "It's pretty dangerous," she says, looking from Laike to Tanan. "Even those guys, I was only gonna take a little ways. Where we're going, we, um..." She licks her lips, wondering if she's outing Leah here. "We might not come back. It's not gonna be a good scene." [Yuriko] Yes, I would appreciate it, Professor... if it's not a bother. I know you're about to leave on an important mission, but.. well.. it's hard to explain... * Tanan shrugs. "Famous explorer, Leah's father, aware that we might all be marching to our deaths, intending to come the whole way with us, could probably kick my ass. No objections." * Mikel glances over at Tanan. "Is the last bit the requirement?" It helps. [Laike] If a true explorer worried all the time about getting back, he'd never push forward. Your concern's appreciated, Miss Baker, but I've made up my mind. No time for whiners in this world.. haha! * Angie looks more concerned about the new recruits than Tanan does. The irony is maddening. Also he's insane. No offense meant! We all are. * Tanan looks at Yuriko and frowns, looking around. "Actually, do we know where Saki went?" [Leah] This is gonna be the best trip EVER! Shiro feeds off his master's excitement, prancing around and looking eager. Laike's awesom! He'll be a blast to have around. I'm sure Saki's around somewhere. Leah just said this is gonna be the best trip ever. We are /so/ doomed. But it WILL! All we really need is MY dad. We're going to fight an all powerful being who kicked our asses! Don't forget that! * Tanan stares at Niri. "And his sword. Why. Why didn't we. Think of." * Tanan turns and looks at the sky. "Dammit!" [Laike] Knowing him, he'll probably be there before us. Glory hog... but us men love a good competition. * Angie heaves a heavy sigh and steps around the clutch of joyous explorers. "I'm drunk and surly," she explains. "I'm going to bed." ...Yeah, well, I may have mentioned something about that...but Dad was out at the dig. Should we wake you for dinner, Angie? * Niri turns to Laike. "That'd be awesome! I sure hope he DOES show up." ...if he's actually there before us I want to know what the hell he drives. [Yuriko] Oh, that reminds me... * Vytor watches Angie go by with some concern, but says nothing. And then you want to drive it, right Mikel? Yuriko fishes into her pack and pulls out a wrapped up blade. * Angie mumbles something. You can probably take that as a "maybe". * Niri blinks at Yuriko * Mikel grins at Niri. "Of /COURSE/!" He's got that maniac glint in his eyes. [Yuriko] Something told me you may be needing this -- * Niri snickers at Mikel Yuriko carefully unwraps the hilt. It's a shining silver katana... wait a minute... Misogi. Ooh, pretty. Ooh. Yuriko, I could kiss you right now. * Mikel glances at the sword. "...wait, wasn't that, uh, that one guy's sword?" [Yuriko] This is the sword 'Misogi', yes. It is said to banish unclean spirits... it was the weapon f Scott Astorian, master of the Katamari school. * Tanan blinks * Niri starts humming the theme song to Katamari Damacy << ...Scratch that >> [Yuriko] I heard about the zombie problem, and that you were going there and.. well.. again, it's difficult to explain. [Yuriko] Scott is no longer in a condition to weild this blade, and noone else is deemed worthy in Meribia, so I wanted to offer it to you. * Mikel blinks. "...can any of us actually use it worth a damn?" I know my way around blades of all sorts. I might not be our best choice, though. I can use a sword, technically anyway. [Laike] Hmm... now THAT is one heck of a sword... still nothing like the holy Althena sword.. Maybe Vytor or Tanan... I mean, I trained. But... I can try to use it, but well...a lot of us would be missing limbs. Sounds like Tanan's the guy for it then * Mikel glances at Ryllan. "...it might zap you for the whole Noah deal or something, though." I'm clean. You /sure/? clear bill of health. If Headmaster Hylan thinks so, I trust him. ...About as far as I can throw him, but I trust his judgement on the oo-ee oo-ee. * Mikel glances at Tanan, then at the sword, then at Tanan again. "This ought to be good." [Yuriko] If you don't feel worthy either, I can use it to some effect as well, along with my chi abilities... that is.. if.. you'd let me follow you as well? * Mia_Ausa (~n@pool-71-126-61-158.bstnma.east.verizon.net) has joined #lunar-iog2 May I see it for a moment? Yuriko bows her head and presents it to Tanan. * Mikel mutters towards Niri. (m) "Maybe it'll zap him for not being worthy." Ha. Nah, I don't think so. * Vytor watches the exchange with interest It might zap him for being evil, though. I've heard rumors from folks who've taken his classes. * Niri snickers * Tanan reaches out to take the sword, looking at it closely. There's worse professors. Tanan's not evil, just confusing. And crazy. His lectures are a dense, impenetrable fog. And then he tests you on said fog, right? evil! * Ryllan nods sagely. I heard most folks pass if they try though! * Niri laughs I'm glad I got out before he started teaching, that's for sure. Tanan takes up the asian-style blade without any problems. To those who can detect energy, there is a harmonious feedback generated by the two. rather than reject, it syncronizes with his own flows. * Vytor notices none of that. [Yuriko] It appears to have accepted you, Professor. I am glad. * Tanan tilts his head back and forth a couple times. It's clear, perhaps surprisingly, from how he holds the blade that he actually is at least somewhat familiar with the weapons. The odd way he's just staring at it, however, is probably not standard to many styles. * Niri cocks her head as if listening and looks interested as Tanan takes the blade. Hey Tanan, I think it likes you. [Yuriko] Does this also mean that you may accept me for a short time as well? I wished to help Saki through a dark time that's coming for her. This ship reminds me of that feeling. I uh. It. Thank you. I mean. * Mikel raises an eyebrow. "Huh. Makes sense, I guess." * Ryllan shrugs, "So long as you're ready to go now, and accept the fact that we're probably gonna get ourselves killed. * Tanan shakes his head, lowering the sword and looking back towards Yuriko. "I... well, you were able to beat Saki. You're aware that we're going to meet that woman from the festival, and there's a chance that... well..." * Tanan nods to Ryllan. [Yuriko] I won't die just yet... love and friendship empower me to face the shadow, as it does to you all as well! I have a part I must play... and so I face it with humility, that I grow strong for the challenge yet to come... Man, you just ooze optimism. Yuriko blushes "Oh, thank you! It is part of my discipline to cultivate positive chi." * Tanan looks down at the sword again, and then at everyone. "...I don't think I can say no to someone who just gave me this. I'd probably marry her if she asked. Someone else decide." * Niri laughs. . o O ( That wasn't exactly a compliment! ) [Laike] Ahem. Can we get going already? I think my old blade's a 'rusting. It's fine with me if she comes along, but can I be a bridesmaid? Hell with it, she hits things good. Let's go. Welcome aboard. * Mikel snickers. "So she's the anti-you, Trune?" Yeah, guess we negate each other out and the universe won't explode or anything. * Tanan chuckles at Niri. "I.. don't think anyone's actually getting married." Awww. I want a big frilly dress that will make me look stupid. Like a big layer cake. Just don't touch eachother. There's a lot of theories about what happens when two unopposable forces collide, and none of them are really all shiny. We could probably arrange that anyway, if you'd like There are stores that specialize in that, Niri. But everyone get on the boat. * Mikel ponders. "Have them touch next to the Prophetess." * Tanan looks at Niri speculatively. "Purple or pink?" Please. Yuriko blushes again, looking like the young woman she is beneath the rhetoric. "...t-thank you again." Hmm. I don't know! There's something classic and awful about pink, but I'm into purple. Goes with my hair. * Niri heads onto the boat, still chattering. * Ryllan deadpans, "You're welcome. now. For the last time, AAAWL ABOARD!" ...I always wanted to say that. * Tanan follows. "Right. They both would work! Of course, there's the danger that the purple might match too well..." Coming! * Ryllan hops onto the boat. * Mikel follows along, snickering. "Who'd be your best man, Tanan?" What do you do if you're suffering from an overload of purple? * Trune heads into the boat. Do alarms go off? You become a purple people eater. Too much purple? I think you become royalty at that point. Of course, we don't have any monarchies, so you'd have to make your own. Queen of the undisputed hilltops northwest of Takkar. Laike and Leah hop aboard with gusto. Yuriko tags along as well with her optimistic attitude. Hmm. Royalty, or a giant monster. Either has its own appeal! * Mikel raises an eyebrow. "Princess Niri for real?" Could do both? Yes. And Princess Niri commands you to get aboard and go make me some DINNAH! ;D Man, now I gotta think of a new insulting nickname. Right away, your majesty. Sugar or more sugar? Queen Niri of the Giant Monsters. it has a certain truthful ring to it. Princess just does not have the same effect anymore. * Niri looks cute I will still beat you up next time you call me that, if it would make you feel better. One by one, we're going to ruin every nickname everyone has for each other, until we're all addressing each other by "hey you." Or we could, you know, use our REAL names. That's not any fun though! Where's the fun in that, Your Monsterous Majesty? * Mikel ponders. "This calls for cake." ...Okay I'm not sure I like this new name. Cake, however, I like. Mikel is my new best friend. :D Cake? Might as well. Eat, drink and be merry, for tonight-... eh, cake. And so the brave skeleton crew of the Fragrach set sail on a fateful trip, into the fading sunset...! A loud horn announces the departure, echoing throughout the port of Takkar, as Emiria engages the engines to speed. Would they return triumphant? Or would the jungles swallow their dreams like so many secrets hidden beneath the deadly greenery. == SESSION END == Session Close: Sun May 20 01:23:18 2007