Session Start: Sat Jan 05 21:00:00 2008 * TheStoryteller changes topic to '-= Chapter 64: Mandate of Heaven | Location: China, Luoyang | Pool: 8 MXP =- http://storen.rpgcafe.net/IoG/' == SESSION START == After a rest and some food being provided for them thanks to Saki's use of the facilities for the soldiers, the group is revitalized (+50% Hp/25% HP restored!) and prepared to once again get moving. Their next stop, the capital and an audience with the supreme ruler over this nation in peril. << er 50/50 actually, my mistake. >> Xenobia gathers together a few of her loyal Vile retainers and requests your presence in her hall before departure. * Gayo|Gone is now known as Gayo * Mikel can be heard grumbling under his breath at having to deal with Xenobia once the request comes around. He does comply at least, though. * Trune looks impatient and annoyed, and clearly does not want to do this at all. * Vytor sets off for Xenobia's hall. Whatever he's been up to as of late, it seems to have stripped away the bemused funk he'd been laboring under for a while. His steps are lighter and he looks very content for a change. * Saki is present in what passes for her as 'full regalia': now sporting a full set of upper-body armor over a fighter's robe, it looks like she took the disguises they wore to get in and spent a good few hours battering it into a better-fitting and just a little more ominous shape. She lurks in the corner looking imposing. * Vytor arrives at the hall and tosses out a cheery, "Hello!", to everyone. Hey. * Saki tilts her head in Vytor's direction, smiling herself. * Vytor stands next to Trune, "So, have I missed anything?" * Niri hurries into the room. "Hey guys, sorry I'm late..." She darts a glance at Xenobia and sighs, reminding herself to be civil. She joins the group, retying her hair in its usual ponytail and adjusting her glasses. * Niri appears to have gotten dressed in a hurry. She is wearing something very similar to the outfit she borrowed from the Yisheng, only this one has teal green shorts that fit much better, and the sleeveless black top, while still very fitted, is decorated with stylized blue trim and blue flowers. Hey Niri. Not really, beyond the usual, 'Hey, how are you doing? World not destroyed yet? Kickass, what's for breakfast?" kind of greetings. * DooM_Away is now known as Ryllan Xenobia is sitting on the chair talking hurriedly at some of her guards, a mix of humanoids diverse and tough. * Mikel lifts an eyebrow as Niri steps in before snickering. "Saki's not the only one going native I see." * Niri wears similar thigh-high black boots with blue lacing, and of course she is wearing Tanan, prepared for battle, with an unfamiliar sword sheathed at her side. * "Today's breakfast will be a sense of human suffering followed by the intermingling of species," adds Saki to Trune's explanation. * Niri eyes Mikel. "What are you talking about? I'm ready for battle, I'll have you know." [Xenobia] ..ah, there you all are. I see some of you took my offer of proper attire to heart? So, the status quo has been maintained. * Niri smiles at Vytor. "Thanks for the new sword, Vyt. It's great." * Vytor grins, "My pleasure." * Niri nods to Xenobia. "Can't deny it's useful for a fight." * Saki beams up at Xenobia with a predatory air. "... perhaps, but not quite. It's a lot like something I used to use; it took a little while to get it fixed up." Human suffering, huh? Hope there's hot sauce. * Vytor shuts up as Xenobia addresses the group. But his cheeriness remains. * Niri grins at Saki. "Looks good." The ice mongrel Shiro hops around Niri, excitedly * Ryllan looks up at Xenobia, still wearing a - albiet smaller - version of the armored robe. Unlike Saki, he seems rather uncomfortable with it, and he grimaces, "So what's the status on this meeting?" * Mikel mutters something about never ever wearing that sort of attire again if he can help it. * Saki just nods in acknowledgement. * Niri tries to shush the hyperactive pup. ...Hey, Niri? [Xenobia] I've secured permission for you to attend. We're to leave immediately on the next train out through the gates. Finally, some good news. What can we expect? This may be me being overly paranoid, but wasn't Shiro Leah's pet? Pets tend to be in the know on that kinda stuff. I wouldn't be so quick to shut him up. [Xenobia] Please try not to make any scenes before we are inside the palace. Remember, the general populace is still very scared and edgy. We'll behave in front of the Emperor. *glares at the group* RIGHT? As long as he does. If more jail time comes our way I make no promises. Once was enough, thank you. I promise not to pick my nose and and flash nonmentionables in public. * Niri nods in agreement with Tanan. * Saki sounds placid. "I am ever the soul of politeness." * Niri whispers in an aside to Trune. "So noted. I'm half wondering if we should leave Shiro behind...but he might be helpful." Never underestimate the power of a puppy. * Trune 's jacket pocket suddenly meows, "Or a kitty. Or a horse. Or a donkey. Or any animal. Man, I didn't realize how many goddamned animals we have." Shiro sniffs Niri's new getup. * Mikel yawns, stretching his arms out over his head. "When's the next train? It'd kind of suck if we got attacked while in it." ...two? * Ryllan glances at Trune, then shakes his head just a little, "Whenever we're quite done." Just be careful that nothing happens to Molly. Shiro can take care of himself in a fight, but she's just a little thing. Yeah, I know. And Tanan's right, two is not that much. [Xenobia] Right now, scouts have reported some heavenly movements that usually are the precursor to an attack. They are heading for the capital this time. I don't know how, but Leah may already know you're here. [Xenobia] If so, we need to hurry and organize the defense -- assuming you're still going to help. Of course we are. We are. What'd make you think otherwise? * Saki huffs, amused... but whatever she was going to say is cut off by Xenobia's speech, and she only nods. "... alright. No time to waste, then." Xenobia rises from the chair and straightens out her sorceress robe, and begins to march her contingent of honor guards towards the exit and the transport hub not far away. * Ryllan follows on Xenobia's heels, not wanting to waste any time. * Vytor follows quietly. * Saki waits for a moment, eyes closed, then pushes off the wall. She hangs back, waiting for the others, then brings up the lead. Ťooc: er rear ť * Kern (dragonknig@ac8ae542.ipt.aol.com) Quit (Quit: Yup! My mom's incredibly easy!) Leaving the barracks of her command, you're once again in the train station. Just yesterday it was filled with refugees of the attack on the western dome, but now it's eerily quiet as the populace is likely too scared now to move about during the daytime. There is a special armored lightrail bullet train awaiting you on the platform, presumably arranged by xenobia. Wow. Look at that thing. * Niri clambers aboard, a bit relieved that this time she doesn't have to keep up a ruse. * Mikel walks along, staff in hand in its usually half dematerialized state. "Travelling in style for once." ...For once? * Niri eyes Mikel. "Need I remind you of the Destiny and Stormrider? Do they not count as in style?" Not like this. Xenobia looks to be in a bad mood as usual as she finds a seat near the front and gives the command to the conductor, a sort of owl-looking man, to begin the advance. The doors shut when all are aboard and the thing blasts off into the grey hexagonal glass tubes. The inside of the car is quite opulent and comfortable compared to the jam packed commoner's transport from earlier * Mikel grins, waving a hand towards Niri. "I thought it was assumed they were the best." * Niri grins back, then goes to peer out the train's window. "Admittedly, this IS pretty darn nice." * Vytor settles into a seat and watches the world race by. * Saki also heads towards the front of the train, retaining the predatory air as she watches the tracks ahead similar to her perches on the Destiny. * Mikel eyes Xenobia out of the corner of his eyes before shaking his head as he takes a seat. "Being angry all the time must be tiresome." * Ryllan spreads out toward the back of the car, watching out the window calmly. Looking out the window you see a beautiful sight, as the sun rises over the civilization of the Vile. There's plenty of domed facilities for all sorts of purposes connected by the rail network, and a large array of solar collecting stations use mirrors to funnel the sun's energy into heat and power. * Niri whispers to Mikel, "I think she may be pissed off at me. Not sure." Towering up ahead is the gigantic city that must be the capital region. * Mikel lowers his voice. "What'd you do?" * Niri shrugs. "Just argued with her. Don't think I have nearly your natural charm." It's strange, how clearly advanced they are, and how impotent. Well, I know Leah is powerful, but yes...you'd think they'd be able to do something against her. * Mikel chuckles. "The same charm that landed me in a prison tied down and being whipped. Double edged sword, that." He closes his eyes with a shrug. "Nothing beats a good bit of powerful willforce." It's actually more like a ring of smaller domes around a central hub that seems much less built up than you'd expect. A small building lies in the center of this open, barrciaded and serene park. It's architecture is not at all like the modern and roudned buildings, rather it has sloping angled roof and shingles of red and gold. It appears to be quite ancient, perhaps even a relic of over 3000 years still standing. * Saki looks up at the sky, watching it with old eyes. "... it's all about the skies. The key to it all is either bringing the dragons down to earth, or figuring out what Leah wants and forcing them to follow us down to earth." Feel like being bait, Niri? * Mikel grins. Xenobia glances at Mikel after his comment. Got a net? We can borrow one. I'm sure someone around here has some sort of advanced super net. * Saki turns and sits down heavily. "... mm, thought about it. Trouble is getting it up there to drop on them. Something /sharp/," she adds in an appropriate tone of voice. * Mikel offers Xenobia a cheery grin that may or may not be intended to annoy her. * Niri makes a face at Mikel. Although, all joking aside, that may not be a bad idea. Have Tanan ready to do that barrier thing in case she shoots first though. * Niri nods. "Of course." Could propel a net up with some wind. Or maybe they have something for that too. Xenobia doesn't comment though, and instead watches their progress with contained displeasure at a number of things. Soon the train is coming around and stops briefly at what appears to be a security barricade of light that guards this building. The check is brief, as they were warned of the non-Vile's coming. The ride is interrupted for a moment, then once again accelerates and continues past the civilian stations into the forbidden territory of the serene nature reserve. So, what's the Emperor like? * Saki falls silent, dozing - or at least on idle mode. [Xenobia] He's middle aged as far as is relative to us, and has the form of ironically a dragon. all of his bloodline are born to rule. Really? How about personality? [Xenobia] He took power from his father who apssed away right before the appearance of the pillar of light in the west 20 years ago. [Xenobia] Thankfully a patient heart allowed him to guide us through the severe melting of the cie that followed it... unfortunately, it also made him listen to the words of that woman as well 20 years... how about that? What's done is done. We just have to concentrate on the now. [Xenobia] Why don't you ask him? I have a feeling I've figured out who you foreigners really are, at least. A bunch of people on an adventure to save the world? * Saki frowns, eyes still closed. "... I'd really hope not. It would destroy the air of mystery about me, and it took me 20 years to figure it out myself." * Mikel snickers. * Vytor chuckles It's not long before the ride comes to an ends, as it terminates in an open air station near the structure. Outside a small label has straing characters and beneath them in smaller words "Forbidden Palace". << strange* >> Cheerful name. * Kern (dragonknig@AC81C039.ipt.aol.com) has joined #lunar-iog2 Wonder what makes it forbidden. The palace is actually larger than it first appeared, having 3 stories. The sloping tiles roofs and red and gold architecture speaks of an age even older than the relics of the devestation War. It's been rpeserved all this time by the occupants as the seat of power of this undying empire. The security therin, I'd wager. If I had to guess, guards, barriers, various other technological goodies... * Kern is now known as Morkim There's a huge retinue of guards dressed inc eremonial armor and robes guarding the pathway, and the air here is crips and clean and filled with flowers and small bridges over ponds and man-made rivers. Speaking of guards. [Xenobia] It's Forbidden because only a handful of people are even allwoed to enter without being killed. [Xenobia] You're seeing something 99% of the population never can... * Saki nods as she stands up, adjusting and checking her armour. "... that means best behaviour," she warns in seriousness. Right, Ma'am. * Trune grins slightly. [Xenobia] If I had not gotten advance permission, we would have all been stopped at the first checkpoint and been arrested, if we were lucky. It is a paradise only for the first clan. Wow. Xenobia waves beckoningly, and her retinue debarks and advances quickly. * Tanan mutters. "Tch. Best behavior. They're wasting our time, and their lives depend on us." [Xenobia] I'm sure with the world so green now, it seems foolish. but before, this was one of the only gardens left in the entire frozen world. * Mikel lets out a sigh. "Diplomatic incidents are such /fun/, though." * Ryllan follows Xenobia, "And the better we behave, the quicker it'll get over with and we can go back to work, Tanan." * Mikel follows along. * Vytor follows Xenobia quietly, trying to be on his best behavoir. You notice that all of the guardsmen watching you with a stoic expression have scaley skin and small horns. Entering the place you are escorted through a long carpeted hallway displaying many ancient artifacts of the kingdom, along with relics and even history books and a map of the old Earth. * Saki continues to hold guard at the rear, keeping a wary eye out. She treads carefully and almost silently indoors; used to her armour, it seems. Theres a small model of a peculiar looking craft that seems like a spaceship... I suppose getting a closer look at some of this stuff is out of the question. Maybe after we save them all. * Niri looks curiously at the model. [Xenobia] ...don't even think about it. This is as much a museum as it is his residence. Figures. Niri peers closer and can see it is a mettalic rocket of sorts, with markings on it. A small plaque says it is a "moon lander vehicle" * Trune begins to look impatient again, glancing this way and that as he goes. * Niri hurries on after the others. The progression is slow, but eventually you make it into the main hall, gilded and lit with lanterns of solar light instead of old flame. * Saki takes her time, more used to ceremonial motions, perhaps; it's easy to match her speed to that of the soldiers around them. * Vytor represses the urge to examine one of the lanterns more closely. In the center upon a dias sits a aged draconic-styled humanoid, with a white mustache that hangs down from the sides of his face. His horn projections are cracked a bit from age, and his scales a bit elss colorful than the young ones. A robe of red and gold clothes him, and retainers bow in all directions with reverence and respect. At his side is a short feminine figure, clad in a hooded robe that obscures almost ehr entire face from view. * Saki blinks once, then follows suit with a bow of her own. * Niri looks curiously at the emperor, making a bit of a bow to him as they enter. * Niri gives a sidelong glance at the hooded woman next to him. "Wonder who that is," she whispers. * Vytor bows to the emperor. Xenobia immediately kowtows to her master. "Marshal Xenobia, your humble servant, brings the foreigners to you as ordered." * Mikel watches the hooded one more carefully than the emperor as he offers a bow, whispering back. "Dunno." * Trune bows as well. He has that much common sense, at least. As she speaks this name, the hooded woman turns slightly, as a lock of blonde hair similar to Xenobia's sticks out and a red eye glints with a pleased smile. * Mikel frowns. * Ryllan bends stiffly at the waist. The Emperor himself looks on at the procession with interest for a long while. Finally he speaks, in a voice stern and commanding. "So, you say you have come to fight against the fiends and your fellow foreigner witch?" * Vytor refrains from meeting the emperor's gaze, and looks intently at the floor. [Emperor] I, XIahou Mao, Emperor of the Vile and Son of Heaven, give you permission to speak freely. One of the retainer gasps. That's pretty much the plan, yeah. * Ryllan looks up at the Emperor, "'Fellow' might be a bit strong a word. But yes, you understand our intent." * Saki beams a bright grin, and adds what the others didn't. "... thank you for your allowance." Thank you, sir. [Emperor] What is your relation then to this Leah? She had come in peace, and then turned her creatures loose, consuming the souls of my people without remorse. Why should I trust you as I did her? * Niri glances at Ryllan, not voicing her thoughts about terminology used to refer to Leah. She just sighs. "Yes, your ah...grace? Highness? Majesty? I'm sorry, I don't know the proper form of address in your lands." The robed woman leans in to whisper something towards the emperor. "The prophecy isn't entirely untrue, my lord. They could be the true Balancers." Hmm. I'm not sure we can give you a reason to trust us, beyond our word that we're here to defeat her and stop her rampage. It's our - well, my responsibility. I can. * Tanan shifts positions on Niri. "Because if you do not, your people will all die, and ours will follow." Well, that too, yes. Simply put, the fiends' death will benefit us in being able to reach our lands, where we have reason to believe we are needed. There can be no other reason, no other argument. She and her master have to be stopped. Self-interest, you might say. * Saki rubs at her forehead momentarily. The lordling looks pensive. "I will admit that as things are, we cannot stop her with our powers alone. We have a great pride and it is hard to ask for help from those we do not understand. But you say that we alone are not the ones she intends to destroy? If that is the case, then we cannot afford not to trust each other." (m) Reasonable fellow. . o O ( Holy shit, he sees sense... ) (w) Maybe our luck is finally turning around... * Saki continues to scratch at her forehead. "... mm, she isn't alone in this, either. She's answering to a higher power, and he's the final goal." The hodded woman nods. "I'm Royce, sister to Xenobia. It's partially my fault we were decieved by the Prophetess, who sister says you also share an enmity with." Right. He's actually kind of taken over her mind, in a way. Leah herself isn't the problem, it's what's controlling her. * Mikel mutters something under his breath before speaking up. "We already have had our share of run ins with the Prophetess as well. She's... probably out of the picture for the time being." * Saki adds serenely. "That is to say we stabbed her, then tore her to pieces." * Vytor waves hello to Royce, then realizes what he's doing, and puts his hand back down (feeling rather foolish). Don't forget turning the pieces to ash. [Emperor] A higher power? This evil force certainly is disturbing. It literally consumes the victims, depleting my populations without remorse or discrimination for clan. If allwoed to continue, there will be nothing left. Then let's stop it before that occurs. Right. So, sir, if you understand...may we have your permission to go fight her, and assistance in finding the fiends she commands? [Emperor] You have humbled our warriors with this foreign magic, so you definitely do stand a chance against the evil that we do not. Perhaps it is Heaven's wishes that you come to solve a problem who's origins also lies with your peoples. Perhaps it is. * Ryllan waits, expectantly. [Emperor] I will then give you my blessing in removing this threat. And should you succeed, I wish to speak more of your origins. * Niri nods. "If we have time. Leah isn't our only enemy, and the greater one grows stronger all the time. We haven't much time left." Thank you, sir. Perhaps when all of this is said and done, we can. There's suddenly a shudder tha goes through the palace. Once Zophar is defeated, yeah. ...is that our cue? Ut oh A few laterns sway, and a crystal cracks. * Niri staggers, then rights herself, her hand going to the hilt of her sword. "I'd say so. Come on, guys!" Time to rescue Leah! [Royce] It's coming my Lord. We have to get you somewhere safe. [Xenobia] It looks like this audience is over. Put up.. or shut up, my friends. Xenobia excuses herself hastily and runs out of the place with ehr contingent. * Niri darts a vicious glare at Xenobia before darting for the exit. ...Did she just flirt with us? Priorities, woman! * Trune follows after Niri. * Mikel can't help but smirk, though he misses the chance to offer a retort as she takes off. Then he's off chasing after Niri. "She sure made tracks fast." * Saki looks up and grins. "--then let's go!" She sweeps her hand, turns around, and blasts off at a sudden speed that hasn't been reduced one jot. * Vytor hustles after Saki as best he can. No, her idea of flirting seems to involve whips. * Ryllan throws his robe to the ground as he follows, his blades already in his hands. Th Emperor frowns. "Forgive my Marshal's impertinence. She is only doing her duty. Now, I'm entrusting you to do yours." * Vytor shouts back, "We'll do our best!" There's another shudder as the Emperor rises from the throne, to be escorted to a secure and undisclosed location. Running outside, there is a alrge commotion, as the forbidden Palace is surrounded at once by a glittering energy shield. * Niri looks around wildly for the source of the trouble, hoping to see a sign of Leah somewhere. There is apparently a torrent of blasts hitting the shield, the cause of the minor tremors. * Saki looks to the skies with a gleam in her eyes. "... time to see if I've got the hang of this yet, then." Hang of what now? Up in thew skies there is not one but /four/ colored beasts ravaging the city outside! ...oh, hey. Convinent. Four for one deal. They are now attempting to breach the light barricade and assault your position! I'm not sure I like these odds. We can take them all out at once and get to Leah that much faster, though. So let's stack them back in our favor. Trune, give us a little boost! * Niri draws her sword. "Let's test this baby out..." Focus, people. Trune, you heard the man! R--right! >> Boss Combat! vs the Four Dragon Fiends! * Ryllan focuses on Trune, starting his magics even before Trune casts his spell. >> The fiends will breech the light shield in one turn... * Trune pulls out his athames and quickly begins tracing a familiar pattern in the air. * Saki covers her face with one gauntleted hand, chuckling under it as she concentrates. "... now, this time..." >> Saki's action. * Vytor draws his hammer, and hopes for the best, taking his place in front of the group. * Niri plants the heels of her tall, black boots and holds the sword out before her, calling the song to her lips as the sword echoes in response. * Saki sweeps her hand in wide, blackened trails as she suddenly calls to the skies above. "... you stand not a chance of penetrating this shield! Such magics won't work on me!" >> Saki engages Mnemonic Abandon! Magic Block 3 is up on herself! >> Mikel Jolts and.. * Saki is roaring, but it's not her voice: her fists surrounded by a black vortex of energy, she growls in anticipation and not a little pride. "... that's more like it. Come on, then!" she challenges the air. * Mikel hrms, lifting his staff up into the air as lightning gathers. "Set up a little welcoming gift, then.... Gathering Storms!" There's a crackle as it arcs out, starting to form a rather large hemisphere around the group. >> Gathering Storms is cast.. it cannot shock the dragons as they are not in range, but the stormclouds envertheless ligner angrily! >> Niri/Tanan! * Niri sings out, pouring her heart and soul into a strengthening song that wraps around her. Her new sword echoes the melody, increasing the strength and power behind the music. Song of power...Crescendo! >> Niri's new sword resonates like a choir with Niri, as her Crescendo increases her own Talent & Muscle by 50%! * Mikel also starts phasing in and out of reality again, looking at the staff for a moment before just shrugging. >> Tanan follows up with Niri's second song, also similarly amplified.. Tenuto increases Stamina & Willpower 50%! >> Vytor's action. * Vytor holds his hammer in front of him and stares at it intensely. It starts to glow yellow and burst into flickering flames. The fire soon goes out, but an orange glow remains. >> Refine.. Muscle & Dex up 37%! >> Trune's action. Voices in the Night, Whispers from Beyond. Spirits of dark, be a source of power.. Mimir's Well! * Trune holds his athames out to his side, curls of shadowy energy swirling about his body as a spidery string of arcane words slips from his tongue. He then holds his athames outwards, and the shadowy energy draws inwards and then dissapears. >> Trune' Mimir's well is extended by Ryllan's metamagic, boosting the Talent/Will of Ryllan, Mikel, and surprisingly Vytor! >> as wella s himself of course * Vytor blinks as Trune's power suddenly settles over him, and he throws a questioning look at Ryllan. * Mikel grins, stretching his arms out. "It's like coffee in the morning. Can't go into a fight without it." * Ryllan raises his hand, and similar curls of shadow swarm into him, Mikel, and Vytor, "These things'll be willforce-happy. You have a tendancy to throw yourself in the way of things." Ah. Right. >> Mikel dematerializes also! Gains Strike Block 1! Regains 21 MP! Never can get quite... used to this. * Niri practically bounces on her toes, brimming with restless energy. A strange, humming resonance surrounds her. She grins at Mikel. "You aren't kidding." After a quick moment, the shield is compromised and the four fiends of red, blue, white and black barge into the skies overhead with a quadruple roar! * Saki growls eagerly. "... let'em come," she grins as Rachel starts to slip into her voice. "They can't touch me." >> Enemy Front: Red & Black Fiends Showtime! * Trune whistles at the fiends, all buisness, "C'mon, fuckers! Let's play!" Here they come! >> Enemy Rear: Blue & White fiends In the distance you can see a gigantic ghost image of Leah. Ah, good. Let's break through these jokers and get to her. [Leah] Niri, do you continue to oppose me and Zophar's return? Heck yeah....c'mon Leah, snap out of it! Let's stop all this and go home! * Saki grounds her feet, waiting for the Fiend's entrance and staring them down with a wild energy crackling about her. [Leah] ...I'm afraid I can't do that. You're fighting on their side, so I have to punish you for your transgressions. Fiends, have no mercy with her friends! Her soul is mine alone! * Vytor grits his teeth and gets ready for pain. >> Round 1 >> Trune's mind connects briefly with the black scaled fiend, as its secrets enter his brain... * Trune closes his eyes briefly as he concentrates. * Huw is now known as Huwnap Black Fiend - 3465 Hp, 480 Mp, 200 musc, 150 sta, 200 tal, 200 will, 155 dex, 155 agi. Weak Air, Immune Earth, Resist Light. Earth Soul. Items: Black Dragon essence, Shadow Scale Oh great >> Declaration Phase. Ťooc: ... ť Ťooc: Hay thars ť ...Air! The Black one is weak to air! Niri! I'm on it! >> The Red Fiend prepares to gather up raging fires about the Red, Black and White fiends! * Niri exchanges glances with Trune and Mikel. "Hey, ready to break out the big guns, guys?" * Saki lifts her head, tossing her hair once angrily. "What nonsense is that?! Defeat us? Useless! You don't stand a damn hope against me!" >> The Black Fiend prepares to belch forth dark breath upon Vytor, Niri, Trune! * Trune grins and twirls an athame, "I thought you'd never ask. Let's do it! Quickly!" * Mikel smirks. "I'm game for that!" >> The White Fiend prepares to belch forth lightning on Mikel, Ryllan, Saki! >> The Blue Fiend prepares to belch water and air against Ryllan, Mikel, Saki! * Vytor angles to intercept the fiend's attacks against Mikel. * Trune traces a new pattern in the air, a yellow wake is left behind as he works. * Ryllan holds up a hand toward the blue fiend, "Just how much power do you have? And how much can you afford to spend?" * Mikel waves his staff about, whipping up a whirlpool of watery essence around himself. Clouds begin to form overhead even as the hemisphere of lightning crackles with its pent up power. Can't you hear it? The storm is coming, and you can't escape it." * Niri shakes her head. "Give it up, Leah - you can't stand against our power!" Wind begins to whip her hair, a musical tone to her voice as a gentle, green aura springs up around her, lifting her a few inches into the air and growing stronger as she focuses. >> Battle Phase. >> Mikel's action. * Mikel keeps gathering up power as the hemisphere sends a bolt of lightning flying into the formation of fiends. >> Mikel is prepariong to combo with Niri & Trune! >> Gathering Storms strikes the Black fiend for 230! >> Saki's action. * Saki grits her teeth as the dragons draw back to ready their flames, but a thrum of power from the blackness around her arms seems to calm her momentarily. She stills, just for a second, then agrees with herself. "... that's absolutely right. You don't stand a chance." Opening her eyes, she grins for a moment, sets her mouth in a line... and is then /moving/ at astonishing speed, a dead run straight at the incoming dragons. >> Saki turns into the Soultaker! all stats up 22%, Berserk'd! She loses 9 Hp from insufficient Mp! >> Vytor is defending Mikel! * Vytor hunkers down and prepares himself for the impending onslaught. >> The Red Fiend summons the ring of fire around it and it's two companions.. Red/Black/White now are punishing aggersive actions! (Ring of Fire btw) >> The Black Fiend summons the Black Dragon Void on Vytor, Niri and Trune... a wave of nauseating blackness sweeps over them damaging and blinding! * Niri clenches her teeth against the nausea, standing her ground. >> Vytor is immune to all draconic attack. Niri resists Dark! 367 damage, BLIND 1 turns! Trune suffers 490, BLIND 2 turns! * Vytor blinks as the fiend's attacks proceed to have no effect on him whatsoever. Then a malicious grin crosses his face, "Oh, I'm going to enjoy this." Agh...! Son of a bitch! I can't see! Gnh! Hold your ground, Trune... * Niri blinks. It's as if her glasses have gone dark and blurry... >> White fiend breathes Dark Dragon Bolt upon Mikel, Ryllan, Saki! Vytor interposes and saves Mikel, taking no damage... Ryllan is hit for 276, MINDROT 1 turn! Saki blocks the attack! 2 left. Nasty little bastards. You're not kidding... * Ryllan stares straight through the breath, "... I think I have a headache." >> Vytor counter attacks for 71 damage! He focuses and regains 23 MP * Vytor laughs heartily, "Is that all you four have got?" * Saki sweeps a hand, powering straight through the black air with ill effect. Her own aura seems to clash with it for a moment, then it is simply gone. >> Blue windy fiend uses Dark Dragon Tear, as ice washes over the trio next! Vytor laughs it off as before, countering for 78! Ryllan takes 263, MUTE 1 turn! Saki blocks again! one left. >> Vytor is at max MP >> Blue dragon fiend's Mp is reduced from Ryllan's Dissonance! * Saki immediately twists to the side and outright punches the next blast of frigid air: the ice immediately in front of her shatters like so much glass, hanging for a moment, then is again absorbed into the black cloud around her. * Ryllan slashes with his blade in a savage motion, causing the ice to waver stangely, before solidifying, as he glares. >> Niri's action. The image of Leah glares at how they whether the attack, yelling at the fiends to rpess the assault, as the projection dims. If they want to reach her, these monstrosities have to be vanquished. >> Niri prepares to combo with Mikel & Trune! * Niri continues to gather the winds about her, waiting for the right moment to unleash them... >> Tanan's action. << ah refences, Vytor did not focus that second time. >> <> >> Tanan's Latice fails due to Niri's BLIND state! >> Trune's action. * Niri tries in vain to see through the haze. "Sorry, Tanan!" >> The combo is ready to fire! Time to make up for that... * Niri sings out, "Tempestuous winds, show our enemies who they're dealing with!" With a snap of her wrist, palm outstretched, she sends the willforce rushing forward. Gale-force winds buffet the enemy, summoning the hurricane after them. * Mikel spins his staff, drawing torrential rains from the gathering clouds. A furious downpour beats on the enemy, a fierce combination of heavy rains and painfully large hailstones with plenty of sharp edges. "Ice and rain, wash away the evil before us!" * Trune flicks his athames outward, and the swirling clouds overhead spark as thin bolts of lightning connect them to the ground. The enemy is singed by repeated strikes that rain down from all directions. Thunder rumbles overhead, signalling the climax of the storm, "I think you're about to hurt REAL bad." >> The magely trio uses Trinity Tempest! >> The winds tighten into an intense cyclone, the rain rushing down as if the very heavens have opened up, and a final bolt of lightning strikes the enemy with a thunderous crack. "Trinity Tempest!" the three cry out together, calling down the full fury of their magic with one final gesture. Shortly after the storm dissipates, the wind and rain and thunder vanishing as if they never were. >> The Red Fiend is Removed of Thunder and Air resistances! (already Vuln to Water) The Black Fiend is Removed of Thunder & Water resist (already Vuln to Air). The Blue Fiend loses Water Immunity, and Removes Air. (already Vuln to Thunder). The Whote Fiend loses Thunder Immunity, removed of Water & Air. >> The waves of elements intensifies, attacking the openings in their defenses viciously! >> The Red fiend is battered for 990! Black suffers 1485! Blue and White each take 668! >> The roar in protest that a human dares defy their might! ...I think we got their attention. Eat that! * Niri tries to high five her friends, but misses due to blindness. * Vytor whistles lowly at the resulting carnage. Heh...now that felt good. From the palace comes a cheer from the guards Give it up, Leah! ...duck. Duck? ...Oh shit. >> Mikel regains 21 MP! Ryllan loses 36 Mp! all status clear, but Trune.. Blind 1 turn! >> Round 2 << ...er >> << No counters? :P >> << getting to that.. just realized >> >> The firey aura around three of them rushes back onto Niri, Trune and Mikel... Mikel is once again protected by Vytor from red, taking nothing. Niri resists Dark! 104 damage. Trune suffers 212 Thunder! >> Trune is KO'd! * Vytor glares at the fiends as Trune drops, "You lot are gonna pay for that!" >> Declaration Phase. * Trune lets out a grunt of pain as he sways back and forth, lightly smoking. He quickly goes down in a heap! Trune! * Saki comes barreling out of the remnants of the mage's spell like a bat out of hell: complete with smoky special effects. She bears down to meet the dragons, roaring at length. * Mikel mutters, shaking his head. "Payback in due time... Saki, hold back until I go of- or not." I've got Trune covered, Mikel, Let's see what these things have! >> The Red Fiend prepares to belch fire on Mikel, Niri and Ryllan! >> The Black Fiend summons gravity up upon Niri! Ha! Just you try it! * Niri 's body seems to resonate as she summons the clear tones of her song magic to her once more, this time to bring healing. >> The White Fiend prepares a powerful gaze at the soul of Ryllan! >> The Blue fiend prepares a healing magic on the Black, White & red fiends! * Vytor moves to cover Ryllan this time Bring it! Session Time: Sun Jan 06 00:00:00 2008 * Mikel holds up his staff, whirling waters beginning to gather once again. "...time for the slippery hand then." Thanks, Vyt. Here we go, Mikel! * Ryllan focuses on both Mikel and the Blue Fiend once more. >> Battle Phase. >> Tanan is defending Niri! Vytor defends Ryllan! >> Saki's action. * Saki launches forward and then in a burst of black crackling energy has launched herself skyward, hair billowing behind her as she does a rather more impressive version of her usual jumping strikes. She crashes down directly onto the head of one dragon gauntlet-first, then uses the momentum to lift and twist and spin a vicious kick into the thing's neck. Braced there, she drives her other hand into the thing to tear and rend across it, heavy lumps of scale * falling away. >> Saki loses 72 MP! Torrent of Blows hits the Red Fiend in the front, which manages to dodge the worst of it! 130, 116, 120, 134! >> Mikel's action. << Hp rather >> * Mikel swings his staff, sending a wave of water rushing forward to wrap around and engulf the black fiend. "What's yours is mine! Give it here!" With that it wraps back around, allowing the adept to reach in and retrieve the goods! * Ryllan throws one hand out dramatically, widening Mikel's wave into a veritable torrent, washing over each fiend in turn! >> Ryllan Extends Mikel's Thieving Tides to all of the fiends, as the mage pillages like a crashing tide... Red: weak, 360! Black: weak, 355! Blue: Resist, 141, White: 233! Stole Shadow Scale x3, plus the Black Dragon Essence! * Mikel yanks out a series of scales, holding them like a hand of cards. The essence of one dragon is spat out as well, dancing about the same hand. "...hey, what do we have here?" >> The Red Dragon's power is reduced... loses Dark Dragon Anger ability! * Niri rubs her eyes, now cleared from blindness. "What've you got, Mikel?" ...ooh, goodies Zophar will hate me for these later. >> The counter lashes out at Mikel however! Ah shit. >> Saki also earns their ire! >> Saki's magic shield blocks the Red fiend's attack! block down! Mikel is hit by Black and Blue for 217 and 229! >> The red dragon continues, breathing fire on Mikel, Niri and Ryllan! * Mikel lets out a shout of pain and goes to a knee, gasping as shadow and ice tears at him. "...bloody!" Mikel! Are you all right? Not really! << Don't forget, Gathering Storms has a hit left too >> >> Mikel suffers 404 fire damage, KO'd! Niri resists Fire, 344 damage, POIS 1 round! Ryllan is shielded by Vytor who nullifies the attack, coutnering for 78! He focuses for 23 Mp! Hang on, help is - aw crap! * Mikel goes flying, lit on fire. Damn! * Niri grits her teeth as both her mage companions are down for the count. "Leah! Stop this!" << Did you forget Tanan defend? >> << rather, Niri is hit for 172. >> Leah doesn't appear to be listening, taking charge of the destruction of the city as her fiends finish this dirty work. * Mikel smolders. >> The Black Fiend attempts to use Gorgon Gaze on Niri! But with ehr defense and resistance to Earth there is no effect.. STONE misses! * Niri hardly even notices the attack... >> The White Fiend attempts to Mind Control Ryllan! But Vytor blocks it, CHARM status failed! >> Vytor counters again for 75 * Vytor keeps swatting at the fiends, hoping the party comes up with a better plan than this. >> The Blue Dragon uses unholy batism... Red/Black/White regain 822 HP. Ryllan's Dissonace once again saps its MP! (Baptism) >> Niri's action. Just hold on, everyone... * Niri sings a pure melody, the sound calming and soothing. Her own injuries, as well as those of all others in the front row, are washed away by the soft sound. >> Niri's Resonance from the blade and her song heals the front row for 1078 HP each! (Saki/Vytor/Niri/Ryllan all max) * Vytor nods to Niri. * Niri breathes a sigh of relief, at the same time glancing worriedly back at Mikel and Trune's unconscious bodies. * Mikel is still burning a bit. * Trune is lightly smoking, and quite inert. >> Mages are KO'd. Niri loses 99 Hp from POIS, and it clears. >> Round 3 >> Declaration Phase. * Mikel shall burn! >> Red fiend prepares to belch forth a cloud of smoke on the front row. * Saki launches off the fiend she's on in another wild leap, twisting in midair: "Who's next?!" she roars, and starts to fall. >> Black fiend prepares Dark Dragon Voi on Saki, Ryllan, Niri! >> White Dragon Fiend prepares Dark Dragon Bolt on Niri, Vytor, Saki! >> Blue Dragon prepares a icy spoell on Ryllan! * Ryllan holds up a hand toward the Blue Dragon once more, as if a shield, "You can't have much power left..." Almost as an after thought, he raises a hand toward Niri and Tanan as well, "We need Mikel and Trune back." * Vytor steps in front of Niri. Yes. Yes, we do. *grits her teeth and glares at the Red Fiend, holding out her open palm as crackling electricity gathers in it* >> Battle Phase. >> Vytor continues to play defense, shielding the heroine Niri! >> Saki's action. * Saki doesn't so much falter as she sees the dragons turn her way as decides a change of plan is in order. As she freefalls back towards the group, the black flames licking at her again intensify to form a protective shield as they sear her armour. >> Saki uses her Mnemonic Abadon.. pain wracks her body for 135 HP as the magic block is recast! * Niri nods in gratitude to Vytor as he takes up position in front of her. * Saki catches the ground with one hand and rams her body to one side, turning what was a drop into a complicated cartwheel that ends with her skidding back towards the front lines of the group, one hand held out in front of her to black the incoming waves. >> Red Fiend uses Smoke Choke on the front row! >> Vytor is unaffected by dragon attack, as he and Niri escape.. Saki's shield blocks it! 2 remain. Ryllan resists SLEEP! * Vytor continues to openly shrug off the fiend's every move. >> Vytor coutners for 77! * Ryllan almost seems to welcome the smog as it washes over him, breathing it in and exhaling with the ghost of a smile on his face. >> Vytor focuses for 23 MP restored. * Saki does an excellent Vytor impression, tossing her head as her aura simply devours the spell. "I warned you. That won't work." >> Black dragon uses Black Dragon Void on the trio once more! Vytor ignores it along with Niri behind him, and Ryllan is hit for 310! BLIND 1 round! >> Vytor coutners again for 76! Hahah! Next! >> Saki's shield is down to 1 hit >> White follows up with another wave of lighytning! >> Saki's shield blocks and drops, Vytor ignores it and shields Niri as well! He counters for 84! You're gonna have to do better than that! >> Blue Dragon uses Ice Prison on Ryllan! He is FREEZE 1 round! >> Blue Dragon is affected by Dissonance and is nearly drained of MP! >> Niri's action. * Niri gathers the electricity crackling in her left hand, closing her fingers over it and raising her fist high over her head, yellow light seeping from the cracks in her fingers. "Astraea Shock!" she shouts, then flings her hand forward and opens her fist, releasing lightning on the Red Fiend. >> Niri's boosted power and the effects of the combo strike combine to give her spell a biting shock, damaging the Red Fiend for 1032! Nice shot! * Niri 's eyes flash with anger, and she looks back at the still bodies of her friends before nodding at Vytor. "Thanks, Vyt." >> Tanan's action. >> Tanan casts Canta Vita! with Ryllan's help it is Extended to Trune as both recover to 1/3 HP! (Mikel 173, Trune 195) >> Mikel regains 21 MP! * Trune suddenly gasps as he's brought back to consciousness. He looks around the battlefield with a befuddled stare. * Mikel slowly pulls himself up, parts of him still on fire although they are quickly doused with a wave of a hand and exertion of water willforce. There's a flicker of the blood red sigils before they fade as the adept stares up at the fiends. "...now you're going to suffer." Welcome back guys. >> Round 4 What the...oh yeah. This. * Trune coughs up a good gob of blood and rises to his feet, ready to attack once more. >> Oh and Niri gets a Fire counter for 107 damage! * Niri lets out a breath of relief. "Mikel! Trune! You're ba- ouch." >> Ryllan is cleared. * Niri beats out a couple of flames on her sleeves. * Ryllan tosses his head, once, and the ice around him shatters. >> Declaration Phase. >> Red Fiend growls and targets Niri with a gathering dark fireball... * Mikel hefts the staff, waters swirling. "Let's hurry this up so I can extract soem /real/ payback." << some* >> >> Black Dragon Fiend opens its mouth wide and begins breathing /in/ this time.. >> White Dragon prepares another Bolt at Saki, Ryllan, Mikel. * Ryllan extends a hand to Mikel, "Once more. Then we're done here." >> Blue Fiend moves into the front row! * Saki foregos her defence, it seems: heedless of the dragon preparing an attack, she darts forwards instead. * Trune traces a pattern in the air with his athames, and the wake left behind is a strong blue color. He glares at the Red Fiend, "Touch her and you're dead. You hear me? Dead!" * Niri blinks at Trune * Vytor steps in front of Mikel. Vytor, I'm buying you a /ton/ of drinks after this. >> Battle Phase. >> Vytor is defending Mikel! Tch. Apparently we shouldn't let him get knocked out like that. Yeah, maybe not. Trune! Be careful, you look like you're going to fall over... >> Saki's action. * Saki sweeps through the front line like an avenging demon - which, after analysis, may be exactly what she is. Heedless of which dragons she's actually making contact with, she simply becomes a whirling tornado of kicks: a final punch is aimed not at a dragon but at the ground, and sends a spiralling shockwave of blackness outwards. Feh...I'm just slightly...pissed off! Don't worry, healing's on the way... >> Saki burns 72 Hp to Torrent of Blows! He fury finds its target in the recently moves Blue Fiend.. 134, 140, 145, 139! >> Red Fiend uses Shadow Flare on Niri! A huge fireball impacts her defenses, nearly melting Tanan. Buffs are dispelled. Resists Fire, 358! >> Black Fiend uses Black Hole on the enemy party! * Niri bites back a curse as she's hit by the fire attack Nghh...I said not to touch her! Now I'm really going to kick your ass if I live through this! >> The drain starts to suck the wills of the party into the void... Saki loses 101 MP (303 HP instead), Vytor resists, Niri 102 MP, Mikel 104, Trune 105, Ryllan 39. Each dragon is rejuvenated of 113 MP! << well techncially Niri's only loses 76 instead. at 0. dragons regain split of 106. >> * Saki yelps in sudden and alarming pain as the forcefield drags a good proportion of the black haze into itself. >> Mikel doesn't lose the MP! split is now 80. * Niri reels, feeling dizzy and light-headed all of a sudden. >> Vytor coutners for 75! Focuses for 23 MP. >> White Dragon unloads a Bolt on Saki, Ryllan, Mikel! Vytor blocks Mikel's attack, countering for 79! Ryllan is nailed for 303, MINDROT 1 round! Saki is hit for 679 and is KO'd! >> Niri's action. * Saki , already reeling from the sapping of her energies, is unable to muster the ability to ignore the bolt. Scattered across the ground, she lays still. Damn! Saki! * Niri tries to sing, but she coughs, choking as she finds her energy reserves are spent. << fix. Niri focuses from Tanan for +99 HP, +37 MP. She was drained for the 102, not 76. leaving 11 MP. Dragons split another 26 MP. >> >> The healing song fizzles! >> Mikel's action. * Mikel whips his staff about, sending waves of thieving water forth once again. "Need to hurry this up, dammit!" >> Ryllan aids another steal attempt at all targets by the thaumaturge! >> Thieving Tides harms Red for 255 (weak). Steals Shadow Scale! Black takes 277 (weak). Steals Black Dragon Essence! Blue: Resists, 129. Got a Tide Stone. White: 180. Stole a Puppet String! Goddess dammit. We need to kill these things. Now. We can't take their assault for too long! The main show is still up there! To hell with this! I'm prying the essences out of your cooling corpses! * Niri glances off in the distance where she saw Leah's image previously. >> Trune's action. Rhythm of the tides! Awake and assail! Aqua Burst! * Trune rears back with a sphere of water he draws from the moisture in the air. Quickly he pushes both hands forward, slamming the sphere into his target with impressive force! >> Trune assaults the Red Fiend with watery fury! But with his mind not as heightened, it manages to barely wheather the attack.. weak to water.. 645 damage! >> The fiends seems to be losing strength as the battle wears on, and in keeping them occupied the defending armies have begun to push them back from damaging any more of the city. >> Ryllan loses 9 MP! MINROT clears. Mikel regains 21 MP! >> Round 5 >> Declaration Phase. * Morkim (dragonknig@AC81C039.ipt.aol.com) has left #lunar-iog2 >> the coutnering spells has also faded last round btw * Mikel twitches for a couple moments before growling out a curse as he lifts his staff up into the air. "...soon enough, anyways. Tanan, speed this up before they hit us with another round!" >> Red Fiend retargets on Vytor with Shadow Flare, trying to break his resistance! * Ryllan pops open a compartment on his bandolier, bringing forth a vial of glimmering, shining liquid that always seems to catch the light, "I'd hoped to save this... But we can't stop here, not now!" >> Black Fiend prepares to Gorgon Gaze Ryllan! >> White Fiend prepares to Bolt Trune, Niri, Mikel! >> Blue Fiend prepares an Ice Cage on Niri. * Vytor steps in front of Ryllan this time. This is going to suck. So much. >> Battle Phase. Focus. We can still win this. We have to. >> Tanan uses Green Dragon Vigor to cause Niri's action premptively! * Tanan flares green for a moment, a barrier forming around Niri, Trune, and Mikel. ...thanks, Prof. << rather his own) >> Yeah, thank you. >> Phase Barrier encompasses the 3 in a shimemring shield, preventing damage. >> Niri focuses! +99 Hp, +37 MP. Vytor protects Ryllan! >> Red Dragon breathes a dispelling attack upon Vytor! He is shielded from the assault, but under the strain his Dragon Angel charm shatters into pieces from all it has endured.... Grgh! Damn! So much for that advantage! >> Vytor counters for 81! >> Black Fiend's Gorgon Gaze targets Vytor, who's now vulnerable.... he is Stoned! vytor is unable to coutnerattack. Focus regains 23 MP. * Vytor grimaces, as he feels the fiend's bite for the first time, and stays that way. Dammit! >> Dark Dragon Bolt falls for a final time upon the trio, but the Phase Barrier nullifies it and falters. >> Blue Fiend tries to Ice Prison Niri! She resists Water, but still is Freeze for 2 rounds! >> Trune's action. * Stelas is now known as Spartacus Highway of the storms, fist between the clouds! Begin your howling dance of destruction! Vortex Wing! * Spartacus is now known as Stelas * Trune circles his arms wide and outward, then spins them back around and forward with plams facing out. As he does, he creates a whirling vortex of air that explodes forward and slams into his target with concussive force! << oh Vytor's Stoned for 3 rounds >> >> Trune once again visits pain upon the red fiend! Though it is not weak to air, it still is weakened, and the 534 damage blows it off the heavenly battlefield, landing in the grass with a gigantic roar and a huge THUD. KO'd! >> Mikel's action. * Mikel gestures, sending rain cascading down across the group. "...one last push and we're through." Hah! Finally, got one! >> Mikel's rain heals all for 442 HP! * Trune lets out a deep breath, "...Oh man. Mikel, let me just tell you how much I /adore/ you right now." ...focus, we've got three more to kill. >> Ryllan (a normal turn oh god what is the world coming to) << Don't wait for ane mote! >> << an emote* >> * Ryllan drops the vial on the floor, without ceremony, and brilliant silver light flashes once, then leaves the battlefield unchanged. * Niri is still immobile, her face frozen in frustration and anger. >> Ryllan extends the effects of a Silverlight to Niri, Ryllan, Trune and Mikel! all recover 250 MP! >> Vytor is Stoend 2 more rounds, Niri is Frozen 1 more round. Mikel is at max MP! >> Round 6 >> Declaration Phase. * Vytor does very little (for once)