Session Start: Sat Jul 21 22:11:37 2007 Session Ident: #lunar-iog2 * Logging for #lunar-iog2 started * TheStoryteller changes topic to '-= Chapter 45: The Rondo of Light & Shadow | Location: Hylan Academy, Quad | Pool: 0 MXP =- http://storen.rpgcafe.net/IoG/ =-' == SESSION START == After a couple days of intense activity among the group members, and still no sign of Haylee or Johnathan yet, it comes time for the newly christened "hero", one Niri Salyan, to go forth on her quest to complete the relic armor. Their boat in Carribia won't wait forever, but before then there is still one battle of the heart yet to be fought... Ever vigilant and trying to hold her discipline, Saki has trained repeatedly in these hours, matched too by Yuriko's own meditations and katas. It happened that morning, after dawn, the two met in a remote area of the field. * Saki looks - a little haggard, to be honest. Pushing herself and having gotten little in the way of rest, physical or mental, she nonetheless continues to insist she's fine, and is standing tall at her position with an anticipatory grin on her face. The blue-haired martial artist was cheerful as always. "Morning Saki! How are you feeling? Not pushing yourself too hard I hope?" * Saki frowns, rotating an arm with a painful crack of a noise. "... no less than usual," she admits. She's really quite terrible at lying, avoiding Yuriko's eyes. [Yuriko] Mmm. I'm still worried about you. Throwing yourself into the unknown yet again when you are barely stady in the here-and-now. You've started fighting for your friends, though... that is good! << steady >> * Saki shrugs one shoulder, shifting her weight. "There's no time," she responds matter-of-factly, "... we can't just sit around." There's something of a vague grin on her face as she appends, "They'll still be the death of me yet." [Yuriko] But if you lose control, can you protect them? Or would Rachel hurt everything in her anger? I wonder... * Saki closes her eyes, shivering; now she's definitely avoiding the question, turning side on to Yuriko as to prepare for a fight. "... mn," she only vocalizes. Yuriko stretches, a couple of joints flexing audibly. "How about a friendly spar between us... if you can manage to keep cool under my attacks, then you should be fine." [Yuriko] Besides, I owe you that match don't I? * Saki breaks into a clear grin, now; shifting her weight again to hop lightly from foot to foot, she tosses her head. "... thought you'd never ask." The two seem to have quite the understanding. Speaking with fists is what they know best after all. As the sun rises and a cool wind licks at both their uniforms, the promises of an even match excite them both... and like the wind, they spring into action! >> COMBAT! >> Saki vs Yuriko: First Encounter! >> Yuriko begins focusing her energies, augmenting her physical ability! * Saki swings her arms around in a familiar pattern, setting up to enter her signature stance. >> Saki's action. * Saki sweeps into the Fire Stance in a burst of energy and movement, but then drifts through and out of it; as she begins her attack run she's dragged her arms back, snarling gleefully. >> Saki's attempt to enter Fire Stance fails; instead she is pushed into the arms of a darker element. All Stat up 15%! DAZE inflicted on self! [Yuriko] Saki, you've got to fight her influence... you can't protect them with simply rage! >> Yuriko uses Blue Dragon Aura... countering Enabled! Muscle and Agility up 25%! >> Round 2 >> Yuriko assumes a battle stance, preparing to strike! * Saki launches forwards, giving very little away in her face; her cry's loud, however, as she draws back a hand further. "I can do this--!" she yells, almost in defiance. >> Saki's action. * Saki crashes into Yuriko with a shoulder, bunching her legs to kick up into the air; practically bouncing off of Yuriko she flings herself into a lateral spin, making a series of raking slashes at the other martial artist while in mid-air. >> Saki unloads mercilessly with her Torrent of blows... 124, 140, 147, 127! * Saki skids past Yuriko at the last, kicking grass up around her as she skids to a rounding halt, already coming back at Yuriko. >> Yuriko quickly counter-attacks, slipping a low roundhouse sweep as Saki lands hard on the grass. 111! 121! [Yuriko] *breathing hard* Gnn... that isn't the way to get true strength... >> Round 3 >> Yuriko begins focusing her chi into a ball of light... her Hadoken move, but distinctly more potent. * Saki is thrown backwards by a sudden foot at her legs, landing roughly. With a snarl she's almost immediately wrenched herself back up to her feet in a twist, feeling the hair on her neck rise. "No, you don't!" she yells, racing forwards in a flanking arc. >> Saki's action. [Yuriko] I can purify this, I know it... * Saki blasts to almost a stop just at Yuriko's side, then immediately uses the momentum of the dash to spin into a succession of roundhouse kicks, twisting on the dewy grass; alternating heights, she at least has the presence of mind to avoid the pulsing ball of power. >> Toorent of Blows, augmented by her rage is simply too much for Yuriko to dodge while maintaining her focus, sending the girl down to her knees under the assault. 101, 144, 110, 152! She regains her footing, barely, grabbing one of Saki's legs and painfully over-extending her muscle there for 130 damage in retaliation. >> While still holding her there, she swings the other fist around to deliver a huge bundle of Light and Water energy at point blank range to Saki! [Yuriko] Waterfall of spirit... banish 1/yu Ume No Hadouken! * Saki roars in anger and desperation, attempting to bring her arms up in any kind of block. [Yuriko] Ume No Hadouken! >> Saki sustains 256 damage from the assault. The attempt to Dispel her effect however, fails! << actually 226 >> [Yuriko] ...Saki? Why? Is vengeance that important? Are you any different than Zophar then? >> Round 4 [Yuriko] Yuriko defends herself, trying to spot a weakness she hasn't yet exploited. * Saki is blown backwards as the wave of energy washes over her, skidding backwards once again on the grass; she draws herself up to her full height, the image of Rachel flickering behind her as the magic washes off her. "Hhn..." is all she says; in an almost dream-like fashion she lowers her head again, on the attack again. >> Yuriko defends herself, trying to spot a weakness she hasn't yet exploited. >> Saki's action. * Saki doesn't even bother to be subtle this time; in a flash of speed she's standing in front of Yuriko, planting an uppercut into her gut. >> Yuriko puts up a valiant block, however the force behind her fist is seemingly without peer. 58! 70! [Yuriko] This... I can't... >> Yuriko flies backwards and hits the grass, wind knocked out of the young fighter. KO'd! >> VICTORY! * Saki paces towards the fallen Yuriko, apparently still drifting in her own mind; her eyes are unfocused and dim. As Yuriko, her sparring partner, lies nearly unconscious on the windy plain, the battle lust infusing Saki spurs her onward. 'Finish it, silly girl...' it whispers. * Etir is now known as Tanan [Yuriko] Sa...ki... try to... remember... * Mikel emerges from the dormitories, still looking more than a little tired. That is, until he catches sight of the scene on the quad and is suddenly running full tilt towards the two while shouting. "'EY! What the hell is going on?!" * Saki takes one more lurching step as the blackness intensifies, then she's racing at Yuriko with wild abandon, one sweeping kick knocking the woman's body into the air, Saki easily catching her by the neck with her forward hand. As she draws her other fist back, the image of Rachel's gauntlet flickers around it for a moment. She stands, stock-still, suddenly wide-eyed. * Ryllan doesn't even bother to yell, bursting out of the building and suddenly running towards Saki full-tilt, with what appears to be full intent of tackling her! * Amy is now known as Niri Yuriko can barely breath in Saki's death-grip, closing her eyes and praying. Her prayers are seemingly heard, as the fellow companions join the fray before it is too late. [Yuriko] Hate only.. takes away.. those you love... * Saki makes a frightened noise somewhere deep in her throat, the blackness receding visibly along with it. The next moment she's let go of Yuriko, scattering back; one foot slips on the wet grass and she's crashed down to the ground, wild-eyed and panting raggedly. "Wh-- wha--" The blue-haired black belt falls back to the ground on her hands and knees, wincing in pain and coughing... * Ryllan skids to a halt between Yuriko and Saki, standing guard between them carefully, "Yuriko. You alright?" He asks, not taking his eyes off of saki. * Mikel lets out a sigh of relief as Yuriko's dropped, skidding to a stop and crouching by the girl as he keeps one eye on Saki. "Bloody... right, just hold on for a moment." Blue light gathers in his hand as he regards the martial artist, a healing rain beginning to fall across the quad once again. It appears that Saki's strikes have left deep bruises upon the girl, and a bit of blood trickles from her mouth. She nods weakly once, indicating she's not quite dead yet. A trip to the infirmary would be highly advised, if she has internal injuries. * Niri is sleepily exiting her room in the girls' dorms, dressed but very groggy still, her clothes slightly rumpled underneath the armor. Shouts from outside startle her into wakefulness, however, and she rushes out to see what's going on... >> Mikel's new trick restores 278 Hp to both duelists. * Saki quivers bodily as Mikel bursts a show of power - with another noise she's skidding back on her haunches to avoid the droplets. It appears to be all on instinct: she's unresponsive beyond that. * Ryllan still doesn't remove his eyes from Saki, "Mikel, how is she?" He asks, sighing. We're gonna have to bring her to the infirmary. I did her some good though... Get her there. I'll keep an eye on Saki. [Yuriko] T-Thank you. I'll.. be alright. But.. but Saki... * Niri 's eyes widen as she emerges the dorms. "What's going on?" she calls, running up to join her friends. * Mikel glances over at Niri, gesturing for her to come over. "Ryllan can handle that. Let's get you somewhere a bit better than wet dirt. Can you stand?" He grimaces at the question before shaking his head. "Something bad. Give me a hand, Niri." * Saki looks like she's on the verge of hyperventilating, staring off at either nothing or possibly Ryllan's leg; she babbles inaudibly to herself, then lurches to one side with a shuddering breath, the last of the black haze leaving her. * Niri nods and hurries forward to help with Yuriko. "Has someone cast a healing spell?" * Ryllan crouches down, studying Saki carefully, "Saki. Look at me." Did. That's what all this rain is from. She needs more than just a magic trick though. * Niri carefully helps Mikel to lift the injured fighter.... Yuriko is easily carrier by the pair, being very lithe and light. She keeps mumbling Saki's name, though. << carried >> ...Poor girl. Rachel did this, didn't she. * Saki practices the fine art of avoidance, not meeting Ryllan's gaze; as far as he can ascertain she's back, the impression helped by a couple of rattling coughs. As Yuriko is hauled off she glances in that direction with a pained look and another shudder. ...Must've been. Why...does Rachel hate everyone so? * Mikel very carefully hoists Yuriko up with Niri. "Easy now... you'll get patched up before you know it." With a nod towards Niri he begins the process of gingerly carrying her towards the infirmary. "Nearly positive that's what happened." * Niri grits her teeth in anger. * Tanan sounds a little surprised at the question. "Because she's lost. In pain. Frightened. Angry." "Saki, what happened? As best you can." Ryllan's voice doesn't carry any malice or threat, but it's obvious that he won't leave her be until she talks. Is there a way to...well, stop this though? * Niri mulls that over for a moment as she and Mikel enter the infirmary; she then calls out. "Can we get some help here? We have a severe injury! * Saki only moves once Yuriko's out of earshot: with a painful noise she drags herself up to her hands and knees, coughing twice more from under a veil of hair. When she finally speaks it's rough and hoarse. "... l-lost it," she starts weakly, "... too much going on, too much noise in my head, failed failed broken... nggh..." Her voice devolves again into quiet mutters. Niri is quick to flag some staffers over who gasp at the injury. "Oh dear, get her to a bed!" declare two robed female assistants, whom you recall before as operating what amounted to a "willforce stretcher/levitation" trcik for Jack. * Niri helps Mikel carefully lay Yuriko down on the indicated bed, then steps back to let the healers take over. Alright. You just sit and rest for now, unless you'd rather head back up to your room. Your call. We can talk more later. * Mikel helps place Yuriko on the bed, sparing Niri and Tanan a worried glance for a moment. "...I'm having second thoughts about telling her about the Prophetess. Until she calms down a bit, anyways." [Red Adept #1] Hmm, it won't be life-thretening, but you really need to rest for a few days. * Niri breathes a sigh of relief, hearing that. "Can we leave her in your hands then? We need to check on our friend..." [Red Adept #2] These martial artists and getting hurt all the time. *sigh* Just be still, alright? * Saki slides down her arms until she's resting with her head on the ground, almost doubled over. Another long, shuddering breath is Ryllan's only answer. * Niri nods to Mikel. "I...think you're right." She sighs in frustration. "It makes me worry about how much we can actually trust Saki." The two nurses nod quickly. "This we can cure, no problem. If only The Seekers were so simple." One of them nods sadly at a door down the hall... [Yuriko] ...I feel like I failed Saki. I.. need to train more... * Niri stares and shakes her head. "Yuriko, you've been nothing but supportive of Saki from what I've heard. This is not your fault. Now rest up; you're going to be fine, and we'll be back to check on you later." She turns to Mikel. "Let's go see how Saki is." Niri thinks back how ironic it seems to see Yuriko injured again, so much like how she was at the Festival where it all began. but this time the shadow saboteur has a disturbingly familiar face. * Saki is, for all intenes and purposes, apparently clinging to the ground for dear life; she's remained stock-still. * Niri heads back toward the others on the quad. "Yuriko's going to be all right." * Ryllan nods, "Good to hear. * Niri gives Ryllan a questioning look, obviously reluctant to ask about Saki. Saki. * Niri feels a little relieved and lets Tanan handle this, for the moment. * Saki quivers, just a little, then remains stock still once again; from under her hair is a quiet, almost amazingly timid answering noise. * Mikel follows Niri on out, rubbing his forehead for a bit before giving Ryllan a questioning look as well before looking at Saki. Yuriko will be all right. It will be ok. ...this time. * Saki twists her head to one side, glaring at Tanan from just over one arm. She looks haggard and angry and more than mildly pained. In very short order she decides that focusing on a suit of armor is too strange, and for sheer familiarity looks up at Niri's face instead. * Tanan falls silent, then starts talking again when it's clear no one else is going to. "I'm sure you've figured this out, but you can't stay there forever. You have to learn control. Both of you do." * Mikel rubs his forehead for a moment. "...might as well get the others as well. First though... Ryllan, quick word?" He gestures towards another part of the quad a bit away from the group. * Niri watches Saki, her facial expression sympathetic but serious and...somewhat untrusting. * Saki hisses between her teeth. "--you think I don't--!" she gets out before falling silent, her teeth gritted. "... been trying to," she admits in a rather smaller voice. "... too much, too tired. This wasn't supposed to..." * Ryllan follows Mikel quietly, with a glance back over his shoulder. My advice? Take a moment. Get a hold of yourself. Pay Yuriko a visit. Apologize. One step at a time. But that's just my advice. Do what you will. * Niri puts a hand on Saki's shoulder, opening her mouth to speak, but she can't seem to figure out what to say. She shuts it, opting instead for a sigh and a shoulder squeeze before stepping away. * Mikel leads Ryllan a bit aways, out of earshot as he watches Saki and Niri out of the corner of his eye. "Spoke with Hiro the other day with Niri. There's a rumor flying about from some of the sailors about the Prophetess being spotted. I was gonna tell everyone once we all got together.. but well, that was before this. Ideas?" ...Remember what you told ME, Saki. Goddess. How reliable is Hiro's source? Just rumor? * Saki drops her head again, but starts to drag herself up to her feet; head bowed in Niri's direction, she mutters. "... I-I just--" she gets out, then shakes her head again and nearly ends up back on the ground. "... so hard to ... ngn. Whem we failed, when it all split, she just... ... think she couldn't take it..." Just a rumor, and he tried to say as much. Of course, the Seekers haven't recovered yet and there's been so sign of Headmaster Hylan. I'd like to think he could have taken her... but, well, paranoia. Grand. Well, we can't well keep this from everyone. And somehow, I suspect Saki would know anyway if she wanted her to. * Mikel nods. "I was going to tell the others and just... wait for her to calm down some before telling her. I don't fancy meeting Rachel." The question you have to ask yourself, is can you keep yourselves in check. * Ryllan shakes his head, "I'm almost wondering if we can chance bringing he... Never mind. A discussion for the whole group." I respect your strength. You would be an immense help to us. But if you don't think you can... * Saki finally lifts her head with a lengthy sigh; she rakes her hair wildly with a hand, watching Niri's face for a long moment, then starts to stalk off towards the infirmary at a slow pace. * Mikel nods once. "I'm gonna go round up the others in any case." With that he whirls about and heads off, hunting for Vytor and Trune. Ah. Good. * Niri blinks, a bit confused at Tanan's response. Puzzled? She's likely going to see Yuriko and not punching you. That is two pluses. Are. That are. Those. Word is that Vytor has been in Lab 6A since before sunup, hard at work on a certain pet project. Trune, on the other hand, was last sighted heading to a Willforce practice arena to do his own testing of a theory or two... * Saki tries to avoid being mistaken for a patient; instead she collars an orderly. "... where's Yuriko?" ...Oh. *Niri sighs* Well, yeah, I guess I can see how that's a good thing. Still...I'm worried. I like Saki. I don't want anything to happen to her. I also don't want to have to leave her behind because I'm scared she'll kill me in my sleep. * Mikel swings by the practice arena first, looking for any sign of the fellow adept. * Trune is sitting against a shady tree, the ECC in his hands. He seems to be in very deep concentration as he works. Occasionally he flips a knob or pushes a button, but it's obvious he's using more of a willforce approach than anything else. The receptionist thumbs Saki over to room 114, several doors down on the right hand side of the single hallway. If she tries I will kill her. * Tanan sounds a little surprised at himself. "Stop. Stop her." * Mikel lets out a whistle to get Trune's attention, waving a hand. "'ey, Trune!" * Niri looks startled. "Er...right. Well, see, that's the problem, isn't it?" * Trune looks up quickly as his concentration is broken, "Uh...oh hey! Over here!" If our own allies attack us, how are we supposed to stop them short of hurting them? * Saki hesitates at the door for a long moment, worrying her lip. Then she knocks, and tries to do so lightly. * Ryllan steps up behind Niri, "At that point, Niri, you have to evaluate whether they're allies anymore." * Mikel makes his way over, giving Trune a tired nod. "Come on. Got to get everyone together to talk about a few things before we head out. Saki went Rachel again as well." * Niri starts, having forgotten for the moment that Ryllan was there. I...know. And like I said, I don't want to have to leave Saki behind. But...Yuriko's her /friend/ and she almost killed her. Went Rac---oh geez who's dead? No one. Yuriko got the stuffing beat out of her though. Was a bit too close for comfort. * Trune shakes his head in dismay, pushing himself up from his sitting position, "Seems I missed all the fun." * Ryllan nods, "It's a hard decision, but... We can't be watching the jungle and her too. I'd hoped she'd be on the mend with the Prophetess out of the loop, but..." Not exactly fun walking out and seeing that, but whatever floats your boat. Let's go grab Vytor and meet up with the others. The prophetess was Rachel's best chance. With her gone, things are bound to be more difficult. * Niri is oddly silent. I was mostly being sarcastic, but hey. Let's go. * Mikel offers a shrug, leading the way over towards the labs, 6A in particular in his hunt for Vytor. "Vytor, you about?" * Vytor is standing amid a curious scene. Before him is an alchmical forge, with a tall and narrow workfield. Inside the field is a sphere of silver, currently in the process of turning itself inside out rapidly, over and over again. Built around the workfield looks lke a simple metal framework structure holding a series of metal plates that surround the sphere. Vytor is passively watchng all this, with a stopwatch in hand, apparently timing something. * Mikel blinks. "Whoa." Hey guys. Saki recieves a response of "Come in.", as she opens the door to find Yuriko laid up in a bed with quite a few bandages around her vital areas. * Saki ... fidgets in the doorway, shuffling her feet. It's an astoundingly discordant image. * Ryllan sighs, "Dragging her along with us is starting to sound like a worse and worse idea." Mornin', Vytor. What's all this? Session Time: Sun Jul 22 00:00:00 2007 * Trune blinks several times, "Whoa. This is...intresting! I have no idea what you're doing though." Yuriko looks quite.. surprised. "Saki? Are you... OK?" An experiment. I'm trying to find a way to duplicate some of the properties of Saki's broken gauntlets. Not much luck though. We m- We n- If- W- Sh- Th-... there's no tactful way to say this, but if we can get her to punch the correct things it is worth it. Uh...you may want to hold off on giving Saki anything weaponlike. Apparently she went off the deep end again, according to Mikel. * Saki ends her fidgeting with a rake of her hair and an exasperated noise before she steps inside the room, eyebrows raised. "... what are doing asking /me/ that?" she almost yells; it comes out as a bewildered query instead. Oh? I don't know the details at all. Apparently Yuriko got aquanited with her fist. * Niri shakes her head. "Nah Tanan, that actually sounds good to me. It's just...usually she's much better about figuring out the right things to punch on her own." * Vytor takes on a concerned look, but it doesn't last long, "Where is she now?" Yuriko manages a weak laugh, stating simply. "... you're definitely you again." I'm...not sure. She's had a number of shocks, and she's never been good with them. I should not have taken her to the pocket. * Mikel grimaces. "Yeah. She seems to have snapped out of it, but Yuriko... as Trune said. Got to meet Rachel. She's in the infirmary now... dunno if Saki's still in the quad or not. We need to have like, a pow-wow or something now though, before we set out. Niri, Tanan, and Ryllan are already up and about." [Yuriko] Although I'm not sure... which one of us has suffered the greater injury... * Ryllan nods, "And that's what has me worried. What if Rachel gets in a mind to murder you, Niri? Or say, Trune? We can't guard against our allies and enemies at once." All right, let me clean up here, and I'll be out in the quad soon. * Saki bodily flops into a chair next to Yuriko's bed, looking like she needs it: "Look after yourself first," she grumbles with a huffed sigh before turning solemn. * Vytor starts closing down his experiment. * Mikel nods. "Alright." With that he goes to make his way back to the quad. * Niri flops down on the grass, sighing. Has she ever surfaced, outside of combat? Seeya in a few, Vy. It's way too early for this. [Yuriko] We were in this position only a short time ago, weren't we? You by my bed. * Trune heads out after Mikel. * Tanan is jarred a little as Niri sits, his sentence sharply changing in tone for just a moment during the impact. ...Oops. Sorry. ^^; [Yuriko] But it looks like the shadow beat me again... * Mikel emerges out onto the quad, waving towards the others. "'ey! Where's Saki?" * Niri looks severely uncomfortable all over again, shivering a little. * Saki winces visibly - and audibly, too, making a noise deep in her throat as she stares off to one side. "... sorry," she says at length. "... I-- we're... it's not been a good few days," she finishes weakly, leaning her head back against the wall. Not unless we deliberately draw her out, I don't think. She went to talk to Yuriko, I think. Not to worry. Yes, she's gone to see Yuriko. * Trune follows close behind Mikel, reaching into his bag and taking out what appears to be breakfast -- a small apple. He takes a good bite, "Think that's wise?" Utterly crucial. * Mikel rubs his forehead. "Right right... Vytor will be out here in a bit. So." * Trune looks confused, but lets it slide, "If...you think so." I...don't think she's going to lose it again. At least not right now. Yuriko's safe. [Yuriko] *sigh* It hasn't, has it. But whatever happens, I still care for you. Our fight today was my foolish attempt to try to give Rachel another chance... * Niri blinks for a moment. She feels oddly sure of this statement. The feeling sends shivers down her spine. You okay Niri? Um...yeah. Yeah. I'm all right. * Niri feels very unsettled, however...and very exposed. * Trune gives her a critical eye, and takes another bite of his apple. It's obvious he's not buying it, but he's not prying any further. * Saki remains leaning against the wall, sighing out again. "... thanks," she adds. "She's-- tired, and angry, and we both are, and I don't have a clue what do next--" she cuts herself off, realising she's babbling and waving her hands absently in explanation. * Mikel takes a seat, pulling out a blade of glass to toy with. "Don't suppose there's a way to force Rachel out or anything?" [Yuriko] I wasn't strong enough... but, that doesn't mean its hopeless. Maybe if you... fixed the guantlets and... found a great life energy somewhere... * Saki makes a noise of assent. "Mn. It was supposed to be the Prophetess; that was Rachel's plan, but..." She trails off and shakes her head, knowing full well how that turned out, and lapses into momentary silence. I can think of one or two that might do it. They're... pretty horrible though. And neither of them wo- I realize this is not helpful. I'm sorry. * Niri shudders at the mental image she's getting from Tanan. "Gah! Tanan!" I can... think of one way. But I'm not attempting it. * Mikel twists the grass. "Hm. Maybe.. will have to think on it some more." He lets out a sigh, tossing it away before giving Niri and Tanan a flat look. "...what?" That's...ugh. No. We are not doing that to Saki. [Yuriko] You learn from defeats. The masters always say that. You have a skilled smith don't you? Vytor is a good man -- I think if anyone can find a way to do it, it's him. * Saki huffs out amusedly, shaking her head; "... hey. Already asked him," she cuts Yuriko off with an amused snort, "... rest. I know." * Vytor arrives at the quad, "Greetings all." * Mikel glances at Vytor. "'ey, Vytor. Pull up some grass. It's impromptu conference time." * Niri looks up at Vytor and gives a weak wave. * Tanan mutters apologetically. "wasn'tactuallysuggestingwasjustsayingwouldworkmaybe" * Vytor settles down with the others. * Niri is rather more disturbed by the fact that she knew what Tanan was thinkingl, rather than exactly what the image was, however. Can someone tell me in brief what happened? * Trune plops down between Niri and Mikel on the grass, still eating his apple. He pulls out the ECC and tinkers with it some more while everyone assembles. In brief? Rachel put Yuriko in the infirmary. Damn near killed her. Hmm. Yuriko seems to sigh deeply and drift off for awhile. perhaps she was more hurt than she was letting on. As silence persists for a moment longer, her lips start moving strangely, a faint whisper eminating from them. It doesn't appear to be in the common tongue Saki recognizes. Do we know why? Rachel, if I had to guess? Hmm...I wonder if this morning had some thing to do with it? * Mikel frowns. "What do you mean?" However, the soul within Saki recognizes the runic words as an old mage language. "The cradle of life... oasis... desert. East. Hope... springs eternal." * Saki lapses back into a deep frown, watching Yuriko intently and trying to catch some of the words. When Yuriko is finished she merely bows her head a little, muttering her thanks back. Saki came to see me this morning, and we did some zen meditation work regarding the gauntlets. Rachel reared up and almost got violent. And as strangely as it started, Yuriko sleeps quietly once more. * Mikel shrugs. "Maybe? This isn't exactly my field of expertise or anything..." He sighs, shaking his head. "Wish the Headmaster or Headmistress was around." No word yet, huh? Nothing... and there's of course, more bad news. And a bit of a clue about what Emiria was ranting about down south. Oh? Hm? * Mikel holds up a finger. "First, Hiro told Niri, Tanan, and me that there's been a rumor about the Prophetess being sighted by some sailor. Second, he's ran into the word 'Marduk' before." * Saki keeps vigil over Yuriko for a long while, her opinion apparently being that it is the very least she could do. The momentary peace and quiet is a secondary concern. Sounds a bit familiar to me, too. I think I may have read the word somewhere. Any idea what Marduk is? A sailor may have seen the...crap. Ugh, I hope that's not true. A weapon in the sky, it sounded like. Between what Hiro knew and what sh- Emiria said. * Vytor looks up, as if expecting to see a giant sword floating above their heads. * Trune actually does likewise. Not like that, Vytor. Bigger, and farther away, I'd think. Old stuff? Like in the stars themselves? Sounds like fairytale shit. Yeah. I got the impression it was farther up than that. From the devestation war. Hiro found the word in the dig where we found Jupiter. * Mikel shakes his head. "He found stuff about it one of the ruins. Along with it being made or connected to some group called 'Razgriz'." Huh. Unsettling. Hrm. Yeah, I remember that dig. We found a lot of really old, fascinating books. One of the Elementalors mentioned something like it, didn't she. ? Bouncing us off a mirror in the sky. * Mikel lets out a sigh. "Razgriz also being Emiria's last name... huh, that's right. You think they or Webbly might know about Marduk?" Maybe. I think Trune's been trying to get in contact... Trune? Have you been able to contact them? I'm.. a little worried about them, I think. * Trune shakes his head, "I...keep trying. But the warding here is so strong. I can try again if you want." If not... we can just do it when we set out. I guess...Ngh. I want to keep trying though. Last time this didn't work I got disowned. It's personal! * Mikel blinks. "Ehe." We do need to get more answers. We're not doing well on the 'dangling ends' front. If that rumor's true we'll be even worse off. The warding? We should be able to cut through it. We got them to protect right into mas- h- J- the office, before. * Trune concentrates once more, flipping the ECC's dials and going quiet as he works. * Saki eventually leaves Yuriko's room: she is careful not to make any noise while doing so. There's the expected staticv as the device tried to obtain a signal from this position. The meter that measures strength is quite weak, but he does establish a connection to the grid system. "*bzzt* ...hel-lo? Is someone calling?" It is definitely a female voice, not Webbly's mechanical pitch. ...Venus? * Trune looks just a little giddy that he finally got the ECC to work. [Venus] Hold .. hold on.. how do you work this.. oh there it is. Amplifier... groovy. * Mikel blinks. "...groovy?" Hello Venus. * Trune snrks, "Hey Venus." She certainly sounds all right. That's a relief. Venus. You're alright. The voice becomes much more full toned and not hollow, as a faint image of the female Elementalor of Light materials before them. "Can you hear me now? Good!" * Niri shares a glance at Mikel. "...Okay..." * Mikel offers Niri a shrug. "Morning, Venus." [Venus] Webbly always wanted to say that to you. But he's a little busy right now... He's all right? Are you all... in one piece? * Niri watches the image in silence The projection, becoming clearer, is dressed in a simple white gown, and her hair is up in a hasty ponytail. It looks like you called up some supermodel early in the morning before they put their face on. "I did need a little more beauty rest, but we're generally alright. The microwave system is quite overloaded right now, unfortunately." Overloaded? [Venus] But.. well, brother Jupiter is working on it. And Webbly.. is busy trying to calm down Mars. The prophet was really rude to her... Well, that doesn't surprise me. ...What happened to all the souls of the prophets, anyway? * Saki espies the light-show as she exits the infirmary: hesitating at length, she opts to lean against the wall next to the entrance, and alternates between watching the party from a distance and staring at the ground. [Venus] Oh, I figured that's what you were calling about, dear Mitsuo! let me see... how to explain... << wat >> << dear goddess. retcon, retcon! >> << *can't stop giggling* >> << She can't take much more captain! >> «ooc: <-- BEST GM GOOF EVER » [Venus] Oh, I figured that's what you were calling about, dear Trune! Let me see... how to explain... [Venus] We chased after the seperate entities as best we could, sealing and neutralizing their Adept magics with our own frequencies. . (Except for Neptune, he just had a nice chat with that lovestruck Noah) * Vytor listens quietly. * Trune suddenly has a mental image of Neptune and Noah having scones and tea and tries hard not to laugh. * Mikel rubs his forehead. * Niri stares at Ryllan, suddenly getting an idea. ...Does that mean the prophets can be...talked to reasonably? [Venus] But, for whatever reason, the warped space began to collapse when you fought Pandora, and we had to withdraw some of our powers to avoid that nasty backlash if the projections get incapacitated... Or at least it seems maybe Noah can. * Tanan lights up a little, his voice coming out somewhat angry. "The reason was Zophar." [Venus] While it appears the bodies were utterly vaporized, their spirits unfortunately got away. Dreadfully sorry about that. * Mikel winces. "...if they escaped, could they have made it back to Pandora?" Venus pales when he mentions that name. "Oh dear. That's not what I like to hear in the morning." What, all of them? They're all gone? * Niri buries her face in her hands ...yeah well, it's better than when we heard it. ...Worthless. And now we have Zophar to deal with too. * Mikel sits back a bit. "...you think the Prophetess might put away the whole reshape the world deal with Zophar actually active?" Maybe. Unlikely. [Venus] No, it's not worthless. Without their bodies, they shouldn't be able to reincarnate! But they also can't rest peacefully either! It's a rather ghostly existence. Wonder how she feels about work for hire. They? * Ryllan shrugs slightly. * Mikel gestures towards Ryllan. "Enemy of my enemy sort of thing. Better if she just goes and takes him on and they blow each other up, but that'd be a bit too much luck to hope for." [Venus] And if Zophar is around... well, we can't dally with ghost stories. There's an old war that is unfinished. But....couldn't they go back to Pandora, in theory? And also...there's no way for us to contact them, either. There goes my idea. Frankly, I'm quite willing to work with her if it means we can go back to our very personal differences of opinion without having to invite Zophar to play. [Venus] Oh, I hate to get my hands dirty... but for him, I'll make a sincere exception... Beautiful sentiments. Oh. Venus. Do you know anything about a weapon of some sort called Marduk? We'd appreciate all of your help with that, if you would. It's... yes. Or Razgriz. [Venus] Ah!! I haven't heard speech of that program in millenia! ...well, that's not reassuring. So...what is it then? A weapon? One of Zophar's servants wants to get her claws on it, and seemed to feel she was close. What can you tell us? [Venus] It most definitely is a weapon. An orbital platform. Unlike my mirror constellation, it is for malicuous purposes only,,, it exists to rain light from the sky and wipe out anyone who opposed Zophar' sdominion of Earth. * Mikel buries his face in his hands. "Great. Just. Great. Please tell me it's disabled or something." [Venus] It really is a terrible relic of the devestation War... if it had ever come online, it would have devestated the planet. Orbital. Closer to you than to us, then. * Trune pales and shakes his head, "Geez..." Any chance you can hit it, then? * Mikel lifts his head. "'had ever come online'? Was it incomplete or something?" * Tanan mutters to himself. "why couldn't I have been something like that..." * Trune glances at Tanan, which is a little strange since he's staring straight at Niri's chest, "Because you're not a killer, Tanan." [Venus] There was an attempt to use it to defeat the army from the West.. but.. hmm.. I.. I can't quite recall how... but it was definitely never fired. Let's hope that the same reason remains should Emiria try to do so now. Who made the weapon? Zophar? ...Presumably Johnathan had a good reason not to create something of the sort, Tanan. To be honest, I'd be worried if he did. That's... a bit reassuring, I guess. Is there a way to bring it down in a more permanent fashion? Like rain of metal bits. * Niri also glares a little at Trune. [Venus] Oh, you don't know? It was Razgriz Armament Systems. basically the death merchant du jour of the early 21st century. Zophar was its primary investor... Mm. It'd certainly be convenient though. Zap, done in time for lunch. Except you couldn't eat lunch. That thing sounds a bit too prone to collateral damage. And I wouldn't be there to eat lunch for you. So there. Well played. * Niri looks satisfied. Razgriz Armament Systems... so how does Emiria end up with that for a last name? A good question. [Venus] I could try to probe it out and do some damage. But I think it's hardened against something like that... I'll let Webbly know. I'm really a.. well, blonde.. when it comes to technology. *slight giggle* * Mikel mumbles something under his breath. Well, see what you folks can do and let us know. If nothing else, Maybe you can throw a rock and knock its aim off or something. [Venus] So, is Emiria really possessed by Zophar's ghost? * Mikel stares. "Zophar's /ghost/?" I'm not sure. I felt a really dark power come from her, but I'm not sure it's possession. Is she? [Venus] She was giving off some seriously negative vibes last time. I'd be very careful if she finds any other of the forgotten weapons. They don't have nearly as much charm and wit as we do. * Mikel lets out a sigh. "Don't suppose you have a list of them or something." I wonder if we could find these weapons before she does. I don't believe it's that simple. She's not what I'm supposed to destroy. She's.. similar though. She's tainted with his aura. Just as Saki has her connection to the prophets, she might be a reincarnation of one of the people who served him. Hmm. The Razgriz name, the memory of Marduk. It fits. [Venus] With a name like Razgriz, who knows? is she the old CEO? Souls are so complicated. She did want to start her own company. Zophar himself spoke to us, seperate from her. She isn't allowed to start her own company until Zophar's evicted. Eh...I still be leery. [Venus] Ooh, well that is a good sign. As for a list, I can't say exactly! Most of the network to old storage facilities is no long up from your side. << longer >> [Venus] But, should you travel east to Europe and beyond, I can warn you of the Middle East. Well, that gives us a least someplace to start. Why? Warn us? [Venus] That was the battle to end all battles... and the sands buried many frightening weapons. And, it would seem, sister waits somewhere there also. Sister...you must mean Saturn. [Venus] That's right - Saturn is alive! AT least, we're hopeful it's her lfie readings we're picking up! So.. Saturn and a grab bag of things that should be left buried. We should wake Saturn, if we can. [Venus] Well, she is what you really want to dig up. We're not at full power till Sister Saturn is with us. * Mikel nods. "Heading in that direction anyways, so..." At least waking Saturn would give us more of an edge as is. [Venus] If we were, those Prophets and Zophar would be no sweat for the ancient psycho-warrior of justice! ... I hope you didn't mean to say that. * Trune can't help but crack a grin. * Mikel snickers. "Oh boy." * Tanan takes a quiet tone again. "...maybe Johnathan didn't do as bad a job as he could have." So I asume we have reliable means to get across the ocean? [Venus] Hmm, oh, before I forget: The microwave array will be back at low power levels for awhile. please do not summon multiple avatars at once, OK? I'd prefer the fragrarch. But what we've got will do. [Venus] This has been a public servcie announcement from the Bureau of Responsible Summoning. have a nice day. * Mikel ...frowns. "You know. Emiria probably is using the Fragrach now." The Alkirk's ships should get us there. Let's hope that...no I'm not going to say it. Moving on. So. Last bit of business... we reall need to get going, don't we? << really* >> Suddenly the signal drops off.. or was that intended? "Oh.. battery is low.. gotta go baby..." Venus disappears. * Mikel blinks. "...baby?" ..baby? * Mikel gives Trune a raised eyebrow. * Trune blushes deep crimson and looks down at the grass, "...It is NOT what you think." Riight. Anyways! * Vytor says nothing. Ha. No harm if it is. She seems nice. I'd love to see you introduce her to your dad though... SERIOUSLY PEOPLE. It is nothing! >< * Mikel cracks up laughing. Uh huh. It'd go better than trying to introduce /you/, professor. Haven't gotten anywhere yet? Ask her to dinner then! Ahem. So, preparing for the trip, yes? ...oh. Oh wow. Can uh. Can we? Please? * Tanan sounds amused. "I want to tell him where he can shove my job." Miss Vulcanon and the Doc gave us a fair bit of supplies. And a new toy. There's another faint female voice from the handset in Trune's hand. * Trune blinks, "...Yes?" Oh? * Saki spots the light wink away, and dithers for a moment; then she opts not to move, dragging a hand through her hair. [Pluto] How dare you waste all the power talking to him.. I wanted to... *ffzzzz* * Mikel gives the handset a blank look. *sounds of fighting* ....ooooooooooooooooooookay. Now you've done it. * Trune blushes a futher crimson and looks about ready to die. ...This would be really awesome if not everyone was STARING at me. Better make arrangements for two dinners, Trune. Maybe at this rate I should invite the whole harem. Sisters? That might be a bad idea. Have to pick one! There's a last yelp of "My hair!!" before it goes quiet again. * Vytor facepalms. * Mikel hauls himself to his feet, brushing off the grass and such. "Harem? If you ever say that where they can hear I'm not picking up the pieces of you that's left." I am a smart enough man to know I'd never say that to beings who could kick my ass. ANYWAY, uh. Preperations to leave! Yes! * Mikel smirks. "Indeed. And yeah, the Doc got authorization to give us something to help with the trip. I'll meet you guys at the Destiny." * Mikel runs off, humming a tune. ... Trune. Agreed, we need to see about getting started. If Emria's hanging over our heads with a Death Ray we can't dawdle. Er, yeah Ryllan? * Ryllan shakes his head, "Be careful. Hell literally hath no fury in these cases." * Trune 's face darkens just a little, "Man, you have no idea." * Niri is trying valiantly not to laugh out loud at Trune. * Vytor stands, considering everything that needs to be done. * Trune shoots death glare daggers at Niri, "Don't. You. Dare." Dare what? *looks incredibly innocent* * Saki hovers on the far periphery, uncertain of herself. Nnggh! I'm not gonna hear the end of this ever. * Tanan is no longer talking, but is laughing quietly. * Vytor spots Saki off to one side, and approaches her. ...No. No, you're not. * Niri gasps for breath Don't you...dare! You take one chuckle, one gaffaw, one chortle, and there will be HELL to pay! hahahahaha Shiro, thankfully, doesn't stare at Trune... he's actually went off and caught a random squirrel for breakfast. :o * Saki keeps her head down, examining the floor intently. She speaks before Vytor does. "... she'll be alright. I spoke with her a little." * Ryllan walks off toward the Destiny, "Come along children. Let's get on the road." Good. How about you? Just... hehehe.. just stay.. haha away from... heh. Mars. * Saki looks up, dragging a hand across her forehead. "... when am I ever alright?" I could make a comment but it will end badly so instead I'll just glare. A lot. I mean, I suppose I should consider myself lucky... Are you all right enough for a trip across the sea? Only I can't glare because of where you're placed! Seriously, screw you, Tanan! I only have ONE smartass living weapon to deal with! * Saki watches Vytor for a very long, silent moment before her gaze slides across to where Niri is joking with the others. "... that isn't my choice to make," she puts forth, words placed carefully. "... I can say I am. But it's not my decision anymore." In all seriousness, they are pretty nice. And largely human. I know, I know, you don't want teased, but I don't think anyone would think any less of you. It's not the fact that I'm being hit on, but being hit in front of your friends is like...being hit on in front of your mom. Hm. Then perhaps it'd best that you checked on that. I'll need to know whether or not to arrange for a cook on the trip. * Niri manages to control her laughter. She looks a little better for it, but not much. «ooc: hit on, even » * Niri glances at Ryllan for a moment. * Saki makes a face at Vytor, then glances again at the group's laughter. "... mm. But I'll give them a bit." ...Are we leaving already, then? Pfah. I'm no expert, but women expressing interest in you it's such a terrible shaming. <> By the way. I'm not 100% sure, but I might be able to repair your gauntlets. But I'll need time. No, no no...it's not the fact that I'm getting hit on that's bad. It's great! It's just...in front of certain people...it's embarrasing! Also, I did not say that! Damn! * Niri looks a little awkward at being ringside to a discussion between Tanan and Trune about girls. Inhuman girls. Let's just stick my foot further inside my mouth. * Saki nods absently, then looks across sharply and nods again, looking more thankful now. "... alright. I may have some clues myself, but--" she shakes her head. "... thinking about them comes a little later." Agreed. * Tanan makes a couple noises that sound suspiciously like someone making a point of not laughing However, could you please talk to Niri at least. I think Trune would welcome a distraction right now. Yes. YES I would. * Trune stands up quickly, brushing the grass from his jeans, "Distractions are great! All for distractions!" «ooc: NUKE ALL OF THAT » * Saki gives Vytor a momentary owlish look, then sighs out exaggeratedly, nodding as she pushes off the wall. "... I'm good at distractions." Thank you. * Niri shuffles her feet and blushes. * Saki trudges her way over, almost standing over Niri as she blinks at the trio. "... something up?" Nothing! Absolutely nothing! Er, no. Just wondering how to easily extricate myself from embarrassing conversations is all! From somewhere in the direction Mikel departe to, the sound of a finely-tuned engine revving up can be heard. It isn't as noisy as the Destiny, more like the sound of a motorbike. * Saki has a ghost of an amused smile. "... That's easy enough." Oh? * Vytor wonders at the ne engine sound, not able to place it from memory. * Saki stoops, and in a second has grabbed Niri and hoisted her up in a fireman's lift. She sighs out audibly, then starts walking in roughly the same direction as the others went to head for the Destiny. * Niri shrieks. "HEY!" * Trune bursts out laughing, "Bye, Princess!" * Trune stands up, dusts the grass from his jeans, and follows behind Niri and Saki, still laughing quietly to himself. * Tanan almost automatically shifts positions. It's subtle, but Saki now has a number of sharp points pressed against her. Put me down! Might I remind you that I have not had BREAKFAST yet? * Niri 's stomach growls plaintively. Shiro happens to come by with some squirrel in his mouth to offer Niri as breakfast. :) * Saki takes the opportunity to sober up and speak quietly, out of the others' earshot as she carries both Niri and Tanan along. She shifts as Tanan digs into her with a wince, but shoulders it for now. "... listen," she hisses quickly. "I'm sorry; she'll be alright. I might have some new clues to go over. ... but it's your choice as to whether I go. Not mine." She speaks up over one shoulder so the others can hear. "... Breakfast's easy enough to solve, too * Vytor exhales softly, but a smile manages to creep onto his face again. " * Niri blinks at Shiro from where she is being carried. "Um...thanks Shiro, but you eat it!" Niri! I have muffins! *Ryllan calls from up ahead, at the Destiny's parking spot* Muuuffffiiins! Ooh, Muffins? * Tanan slowly and carefully pulls back. "..sorry." * Niri calms a little as Saki goes serious. "We'll...need to talk about that then." She frowns in Ryllan's direction and rolls her eyes. The Ice Mongrel whines a bit, tail wagging a little less and he lowers his prize to the floor, sad. The little mutt then devours it with a huge gulp. Well, they ARE carnivores.. Ryllan's cries of muffins are almost drowned out by a screech of tires from the lot. * Niri looks up to see what caused the noise * Saki shakes her head, just a little. "... it's alright, Professor. ... I know we do." She casually continues to carry the burden without a break in her stride. * Vytor returns to the remaining assembled party members, "So, what's first?" *The source of the noise is discovered soon enough as Mikel suddenly comes into sight... at the wheel of a vehicle. It's a lot smaller than the Destiny and doesn't have a covering like it does. The silver shines as bits of sunlight reflect off it, revealing a few lightning bolt designs in yellow and blue paint elsewhere as Mikel brings it about to a spinning stop next to the Destiny, grinning from ear to ear. * Niri stares, then struggles for Saki to put her down. "COOL!" ...well now. Oh /wow/. * Saki almost makes a yelp sound, and manages at least to put Niri down some semblance of carefully. Mikel, somewhere deep inside, Tanan and Ryllan are crying. And it's awesome. What. What? They gave him a car? * Ryllan sighs, "...Professor. Didn't we have a policy on Mikel and driving?" ...Sorry Saki. ^^; Um. HEY MIKEL! They gave him a car? They gave him a car? It's a BIKE! Car! Thing! It's awesome! * Saki opts for the stoic approach, leaning up against the Destiny and watching things happen as they will. It's insanity. He rammed a church! That was to save YOU, you know. * Vytor awaits the impending explosion of incredulation ...Not that you needed it Niri, it was a church. They are not hard to avoid. * Trune just steps back and grins, glad that the focus is away from him. Distractions, indeed! Well. I wasn't there. I can count on one hand th-.. can I borrow your hand? I can count on your hand the number of times a church has jumped out in front of me. Still! Lookitat, it's got lightning bolts on it! Mikel, what the hell is this? ...you're making me think it's cool that is not fair. * Mikel smirks, waving a hand. "New model from Vulcanon Labs. It's like the Destiny's little brother, and made for exploring and the like. Perfect for where we're going. /Also/, willforce might be able to power it as well." Compliments of Dr. Sonyele. Right. I'm going to make one thing clear, right now. * Saki rests her head back against the side of the Destiny, closing her eyes and exhaling. It's already been a long day. Oops. Sorry, Tanan. :P But you could stand to be a little more trusting of Mikel, you know! If you so much as hit /anything/ important with that, I will put a hole into you the size of the one you made in the cathedral. Are we clear?" * Niri blinks at Mikel, and her eyes shine. "...Can I drive it?" Well, truthfully if Dr. Sonyelle gave it to Mikel, we can't really force him not to use it. You know, I didn't put a hole into the cathedral. The Destiny was worse off than it was. Would you rather I hurt you as bad as you hurt the Destiny for a first offense? You might not survive that * Mikel raps the vehicle with a knuckle, grinning. "You can mount weapons on it, too. I passed on that for now though." He glances over at Niri, possibly ignoring Ryllan's idle threats. "Of course!" * Niri grins in delight. * Tanan sighs. No, you can't. Not until Tanan can form a crash helmet for you, anyway. You're too important. ...You don't think I can DRIVE? * Niri looks genuinely hurt. * Mikel revs the engine a bit. "She drives fine. I took her out on one of the Academy's other vehicles before." No, I just think that thing can roll easily and doesn't have a roof. I think you two are seriously overracting. It's also hilarious. It was a church! Bah. And here I was imagining myself driving it, sword drawn, charging heroically at Zophar. So he rammed into a church. Uh..that's kind of a big deal. But considering we have something to drive over rugged, horribly untamed lands and you whine about Mikel? Seriously. Priorities! * Saki frowns, apparently attempting to mentally solve the problem of carrying Tanan and Ryllan out of the awkward conversation without bringing Niri along for the ride. Niri? There are better plans. Next time you're talking about radiation poisoning I can take my sweet time, Professor. How's that? * Tanan sounds like he's already given up, and has resorted to muttering. "maybe we'll run into hostile churches." * Niri gives Niri a mental nudge along the lines of "Lighten up" ;) << ARGH >> * Niri gives Tanan a mental nudge along the lines of "Lighten up" ;) << SHE'S LOSING IT >> «ooc: How is that possible!? ;) » << See even I'm getting confused now! >> << see it isn't just me! ;) >> * Tanan starts to glow a little. «ooc: At least it's not 'Gives Mitsuo a light nudge!' » * Saki rubs at her temple, eyes down. "... the more things change..." * Niri raises an eyebrow. . o O (Haha. Very funny.) * Mikel smirks, sitting back in the car seat. "Trune! You can take a shot at it too if you want sometime." Really? Sweet! . o O (..what! You said. I.. oh. Oh. I see. Ahem. Oops.) All right, all right! Enough fun and games. In case we've forgotten, we do have a little world we're trying to save here. Ooh, can three fit on that thing, Mikel? * Tanan stops . o O (Oh come on. I refuse to believe that you've lost the ability to understand figurative language.) * Saki doesn't make a move to leave just yet; just keeps up guard against the Destiny's side. Alright, let's get going, folks, unless anyone has any unfinished business? *He thrusts a paper bag at Niri* I promised these. here they are. All right, Vytor. ...Oh hey, does Ryllan /actually/ have muffins in there? -Ooh. * Niri digs in, her stomach rumbling ;_; * Niri climbs aboard the Destiny, with one last admiring look back at Mikel's new wheels. * Mikel hrms. "Three's pushing it. Two is managable." * Trune clambers on the Destiny as well, "Got a muffin left for me, Nir'?" * Vytor starts herding people in the right direction. * Saki keeps her head down. "... the unfinished business is whether I'm going," she appends to the discussion quietly. * Niri hands one to Trune, still busily munching. She is...hungry. O_o Toss me one too please, Niri? Thanks! * Mikel glances at Saki. "I think you should, to be honest." * Trune blechs as apparently Niri gave him a bran muffin. * Niri hurls a muffin to Mikel, too, then looks inquiringly at Saki, frowning slightly as she swallows a bite of muffin. * Mikel catches it with a hand. "Ooh, chocolate muffin." * Vytor stands next to Saki, looking expenctantly at Niri. So wait, you get chocolate and I get bran? I smell something conspiricy like. * Niri wide eyes. "There was chocolate in there?" She dives back into the bag and fishes around for a second muffin. * Tanan sounds serious now. "Do you believe you can control yourself, Saki?" If you're introspective enough to ask the question, you're introspective enough to answer it, Saki, or nominate someone to answer it for you. What do you think? Can we trust you to keep a handle on yourself? We won't be able to leave you once we cross the ocean. * Niri finds a chocolate muffin, then eyes Saki more seriously, waiting to see how she answers Tanan. * Mikel takes a bite from his own muffin, watching the conversation. * Saki frowns at Mikel. "... I would like to," she admits, then raises her voice. "... give me time to recover, and ... I think it will be alright. Yuriko gave me some information that may help. ... but it isn't my choice, now." I'll make you... almost the same promise you made me. Worst comes to worst, we've dealt with Rachel before. * Niri sighs. "Saki, I want you along. But...I also don't want you to get hurt. And I'm afraid that the next time you lose control and try to harm someone else, that's what's going to happen. If you harm them, I wi-... Niri doesn't want me to threaten you with a sequence of horrible things. * Saki actually turns at that point, and grins grimly at Tanan - or Niri. "... that's alright. Threaten away. I've done the same." As her answer, she lobs her bag up onto the cargo bay. Guess that answers that. * Niri sighs. "I'm...not sure you understand, Saki, but all right." * Mikel chuckles, taking another bite. "Cheer up, Niri. It's the whole crew again." . o O (I don't suppose there's any way you can control your defensive reflexes a little next time Saki startles you?) On another crazy mission, no less. Well, yeah, I just don't want it to be the whole crew with...bleeding holes in one or more of them. On a mission like this, Niri. That's kinda inevitable. But it's not like we haven't bled before. We'll make due. * Saki hops up after it, before frowning across at Mikel's bike. "It's alright," she adds, uncharacteristically ruffling Niri's hair. "... thank you. ... ... I think that one suits me more," she adds, pointing at the quad. * Mikel frowns. "Before we go, Saki." * Niri stares at Saki, a bit taken aback. . o O (...yes. Sorry.) . o O (I mean, I appreciate it and all, but...I don't want you to end up doing the same kind of thing Saki did to Yuriko this morning, you know?) . o O (I wouldn't lose control and do it accidentally.) * Saki glances across at Mikel. "...nn?" I dunno if it'll have a bearing on if you want to go or anything, but you need to know either way. There's been a rumor of the Prophetess being sighted. No idea if it's /true/, but. * Niri doesn't answer Tanan this time, falling silent and just worrying to herself. * Saki almost flops down into her usual laying position on the Destiny's cargo bed: the only thing that stops her is the fact it's hard and made of metal. She frowns at it for a moment, lost in thought. "... whereabouts?" Down south, though not as far as before. The rumor's apparently from one of the sailors. * Saki remains stock still for a long pause, then weakly leans her head back against the cab wall. "... I see. ... good? I think." She frowns in thought again. "... maybe." And then opts for being lost for words instead. * Vytor tosses his pack into the Destiny and climbs aboard, offering Saki a sample from the bag of dried fruits he brought along, "I suspect breakfast hasn't been high on your list of priorities." * Mikel just nods, pondering. "Think I'd prefer her to running into Emiria and her damn big boat though." He finishes off his muffin and settles into the seat, revving the atv's engine again. It... does not bode well for Johnathan if she's been seen. Hopefully the Headmaster's okay. * Niri stops for a moment and looks out at the quad, blinking in sudden realization. She sighs resignedly. * Saki blinks at a sudden proliferation of food, and blinks out of whatever reverie she's in. "... mn," she nods, accepting it. "I'll make it up to you." And the Headmistress. She went looking for him apparently. * Vytor nods to Saki, and settles into his seat. * Saki points at Tanan - and, by association, Niri. "... it means, at the least, that whatever they got pulled into, they can get out of. That's more than we knew." Having your bodies vaporized frees you from a lot of constraints, I suppose. I've been talking to some of the staff. They'd know if either of the Hylans were dead. They're not. A good sign then. They're not? * Niri looks slightly encouraged * Mikel revs the engine again, hrming. "Good, then. Enough things have gone wrong." The other seekers are not dead either. Merely... stone. Exactly. Right. But, it's decent that they're not dead. Death's rather final. * Niri looks a bit melancholy Tell that to the prophets. We can drag the answers out of the Prophetess if we run into her again. * Saki rakes her hair, getting agitated. "... either he's alive or he isn't. Worrying about it won't help right now," she adds bluntly. Death's not final. It's just inconvienent. I'm sorry. He's... family. Of a sorts. Kind of. I'm a little worried. We all a bit are, I think. I've known the headmaster since forever. I'm worried too. And though I'm still a bit irritated at him...he's a nice guy. Mostly. Anyway, we should get on the road, unless anyone has further business here? Mikel, you can drive in front. We'll be trusting in my breaking, thank you. * Niri thinks to herself, wondering if there might be any way to help Johnathan * Vytor rolls his eyes. <> * Mikel shrugs. "If you're that afraid of being out done, sure. And I was going to suggest a race, too. Another time." And then he's revved the engine again, though he's going slow until the Destiny starts. * Saki looks exhausted already, almost drifting off against the cab wall. * Niri frowns. Mikel! Get back here you putz! Hey guys, where exactly are we headed first? We need to catch a ship to Carribia, right? I'm only like a few steps ahead of you. S'the plan. Best we could do is... what, New Takkar? I believe so. It's a good plan, if we're driving there. I can't see why we should though We can always use the Wings. I was kind of hoping Niri could do her thing, actually. I didn't mean road quite so literally, Mikel. Mikel just wants to try out his new toy. * Niri pulls out the White Dragon Wings. "Hey Mikel! Get alongside the Destiny and grab onto it." * Mikel smirks. "Would be interesting to see if I could beat them there, but fine." He brings the vehicle about, reaching out to grab onto the Destiny. "I ought to name this sometime. Hm." * Saki frowns absently as Mikel pulls up, eyes still closed. "... once we're in new territory, I'll ride with you." Name it something hilariously retarted. Like Brittany or Bertha. Everyone ready? Ready? * Niri takes a long look at the quad, frowning slightly. * Mikel raises an eyebrow at Saki. "Sure. That'll do better than mounting a machine gun or something on this. And no way in hell, Trune." He nods towards Niri, grinning. "Lead the way, Niri." * Saki visibly braces herself; hanging onto the side of the Destiny tightly enough her knuckles whiten. "... let's go." * Niri focuses on the power in the White Dragon Wings. Niri strikes a heroic pose, much like dad, as the white winged staff glows with sacred energies. All of your bodies feel light as a feather, and you experience a brief moment of euphoria as the world is bathed in warm spiritual power. And then the plume of your souls is cast into the wind, blown onward to a familiar destination! When the fog clears in a moment, they would be standing in the center of the riverboat town of Takkar... As the blip of light vanishes, Lucia runs out from a nearby school building, missing their departure by only a hair. She looks up into the sky and bows her head. "Please be safe, Nirika..." == SESSION END == Tah dah! >> 16 XP! Session Close: Sun Jul 22 02:54:19 2007