Chapter 3 - Walls & Steals
Session Start: Sun Sep 10 8:39:34 2000<GMStoren> We last left the motley crew as they came upon the gates of Pandora, the center of royal authority and trade for the Gaia's Navel lands. Surely what they seek can be found within it's walls...
- Kingdom of Pandora | Undine's Day, Daytime -
<GMStoren> The guards harass you a moment at the entrance, but eventually you're able to get by, partially because of how tough the mercs look. Luckily Chrys isn't spotted. ^_^
* Rachel is quiet again and sort of shadows Keylia, trying to stay behind her. ^^;
<Cody> Wow...This place is huge. O_o
* Chrys hides himself in the group, mumbling to himself, aggravated "..andnowImherewithtwodykesapsychoawussandquitepossiblysomeonewhohate smealreadymygodIcantbelievethiswhymustthisalwayshappentome..."
<GMStoren> It's late morning in the city, and a lot of merchants have already opened up shop, and plenty of villagers walk around doing their business. A fountain blurbles merrily in the square, the castle towering in the distance.
* Rachel says nothing but keeps moving. ^^;
* Cody winces at what Chrys said. -_-;
<Keylia> Rache, you going to be alright?
* Rachel nods a little at Keylia, mumbling. "Sure...sure..! I can do this! I'll just stay behind you."
<Chrys> (vq) shouldajuststayedinpotosbutnoooihadtoleavebecausethebitchrippedmeoffgodwhythehelldoesthishappenargarghargh...
<Keylia> Maybe you should wake our psycho thief guide up back there... he's talking to himself. :P
<Chrys> I'm not asleep.
<Cody> ^^; I've been ignoring him, actually.
<Chrys> I'm just seriously pissy right now. Back off, Key... -_-;
* Rahne's tail flicks a bit. "The guards were certainly more... uhm... worse than usual. :/ I wonder why?"
* Rachel rolls her eyes but says nothing. ^^;
* Tori strolls quietly behinds, hands in pockets.
<Cody> Maybe they're just bored...? ^^; There's a whole city here to explore and they're forced to stay at one tiny gate.
<Keylia> That's one way of looking at it.
<Rachel> Or maybe there's trouble brewing.
<Chrys> (q) Another is that they're out for my head...
<Cody> ...I hope not... :/
<Keylia> SO, whatcha wanna do? We can try to get into the castle and ask the royals what's up, or hang around till later and hope Chrys knows where that place is. ;)
<Cody> I'd...like to ask the King for help...
* Rachel sweatdrops. "Uhn."
* Chrys glares icily. "I see someone doesn't trust me farther than they can throw me..."
<Rachel> So let's go to the castle like Cody wants.
<Keylia> I trust you Chrys. I just like to show my love in interesting ways! ^_-
* Rachel mumbles. "I bet."
<Cody> But...If it's any trouble... ^^:
<Cody> Rachel...you don't want to go to the castle, do you? :/
* Chrys rolls his eyes. "You know, maybe death or imprisonment -is- the better option..." -_-;
<Keylia> But if you're not ready, we should hit the palace. Of course, I'm not sure you're going to be able to just walk in with that bounty.
<Cody> ^^; He could wear my shawl over his head.
* Rachel sighs softly at Cody. "I don't wanna be here period, but you're a friend and I'll help you."
* Cody blinks and sweatdrops. "It could work!"
<Chrys> ...
<Cody> Sorry...and thanks Rachel... ^^:
* Rahne's tail swishes back and forth. "Should we split up then? I'd be much better helping on the Royal front than dealing with, uhm... well... the unsavory element." ^^;
<Cody> Actually...maybe that's not such a bad idea...
<Keylia> We can do that, sure. Might be easy to move around in two bunches...
<Keylia> Cody, why don't you lead to the castle? You're a witness to the whole thing, and I think the best leader that idiot town has *cough*. ;)
* Chrys looks to Cody. "So...me, Keylia, and Rachel, and you, Rahne, and cloak boy?"
* Rachel blinks and looks at Chrys for a moment before nodding.
* Cody blushes a bit. "Yeah...That sounds fine." :)
* Chrys shrugs and turns to Keylia. "So where do we go, leader-type babe?" ^_-
<Cody> And we'll meet up here when we're finished.
<Keylia> So it's settled, then. ^_^
* Chrys nods.
<Cody> ^_^ Great. I'll see you all back here soon...Thanks for all your help.
<Keylia> Chrys, I'm counting on you to know where to go for info, unless you WANT me to lead. ;)
* Rachel stays sorta quiet and waits, crossing her arms and uncrossing them.
<Cody> Rachel...you're going with Chrys?
* Chrys sighs. "So do we go black market or do we wait?"
<Rachel> Yep.
* Cody blinks a bit, but nods. "O...Okay. Good luck... :)"
* Rachel looks at Cody curiously. "When you meet the king, be sure to kneel and don't forget to butter him up."
<Keylia> The market won't be open, but taverns will... let's hunt around! And getting drunk is always fun too. :)
* Rahne blushes profusely while waiting near Tori & Cody, but her tail is energetically swishing back and forth.
<Chrys> Heh...
* Rachel nods at Keylia. "Let's do it, then..."
<Cody> ^^; I knew to kneel...Buttering up...I don't know if I can do that right. I'll probably trip over my words... ^^;
* Chrys looks to Rahne longingly for a moment, and then turns back to his group.
* Rachel smirks faintly at Chrys, her eyes actually lightening slightly.
* Chrys smirks. "So? Let's go! I know of a great place..." ^_-
<Cody> Let's go, everyone. ^^ Ready?
* Rahne is still flushed. "It'll be okay, Cody. Talking to a king should be like talking to anyone else." ^^;
* Tori pulls on his cloak and jacket again, and follows Cody.
<Cody> I hope so...^^;
* Cody walks towards the castle. ^^
<Rachel> I bet, Chrys... I bet. ^^;
* Rahne waves to the others, before spinning on her heels to catch up to the boys. "Back soon." ^^;
<GMStoren> The two groups part ways! :D- Pandora, Castle Grounds | Undine's Day, Daytime -
<GMStoren> Cody, Rahne, and Tori head through the straight, main thoroughfare to the majestic castle Pandora. Though not as mighty in stature as Tasnica, it none the less is an imposing figure.
* Cody looks up. "H..Have you been here before, Rahne?"
* Rahne looks back, the red still in her cheeks.
* Me? I.. uhm, only once, and only on a short errand. ^^; I didn't really get to see anyone overly important or anything.
* Cody gulps a little. "Oh."
* Rahne's tail wags. "I'm sure it'll be an interesting experience though." ^^;
* Cody smiles back. "Right. Um...do we ask for an appointment?"
* Tori pulls his hat down a bit lower before they reach the castle, obscuring his face.
<GMStoren> You go as far as the main foyer, where another bunch of Pandora's finest stand vigil.
<GMStoren> [Guard] Halt... no commoners allowed into the castle without an appointment.
<Rahne> I... uh... really don't know. ^^; I suppose we can ask someone inside. ^^
<Cody> Then I'd like to make one right away. ^^;
<Rahne> Or... get our answer right here. ^^;
<GMStoren> In the distance you see a strange girl harassing a guard farther inside. ^^
<GMStoren> [Guard in back] Miss... I told you... no visitors! I can't let you through no matter what! ^^
* Rahne looks up at the guard. "My name is Rahne Ward, I'm Miss Luka's student. We've come on urgent business; are you sure there's no way this appointment can be waived?"
<GMStoren> [Guard at front] An envoy of Luka you say? Do you have proof?
* Cody curiously looks over the guard's shoulder to see what all the noise is about.
* Rahne holds out her spear, with the Seal on it. "Will this suffice?"
* Meira folds her arms under her abundant chest "Hmmph... I cant believe you're being so rude... I told you I'm on the guest list. Just take another look? Pretty please?"
* Tori cranes his neck around the guard to see the chaos inside
<GMStoren> [Guard in back] I haven't seen your name anywhere... please, just go home? You're causing a ruckus... ^^
<GMStoren> [Guard on a hallway] Imagine turning down a pretty girl like that... and check out those wings.. *mutter*
<GMStoren> [Guard at front] Hmm. That's the sage's symbol... let me see what I can do.
<Cody> Thank you, Sir! ^^
* Rahne's tail, previously still during the exchange, begins it's casual swishing again. "Thank you." ^^
<GMStoren> The guard goes back to check with another at a small desk, and accidentally kicks a small rock that beans the Guard accosting the winged woman in the head. x_X
* Rahne then turns her attention to the other visitor. "Yiii... ^^; Is that the fashion here? I'd die if I wore that around town." ^^;
<GMStoren> [Guard in back] Ow.. damnit.. x_X
* Meira puts her index finger on the objecting guard's chest, tracing a circle "Aww.. you're not even looking.. I'm sure if you take one more look you'll find my name.."
<Cody> ^^; I wouldn't know. I'm a boy.
<GMStoren> [Guard] Sorry, Joe!
* Cody blushes a little. "But it's not something I'd wear..." ^^;
<GMStoren> The guard at back mutters and stares at Meria. ^^;
<GMStoren> [Guard at back] I can't let you in without a good reason, miss... but if you can find someone...
<GMStoren> The other guardsman comes back to the group.
* Rahne's left ear absently flicks away an annoying fly. :P
* Meira smiles at him. "Find someone to.... what?"
* Cody turns his attention to the returning guardsman. "Can we see the King, Sir?"
<GMStoren> [Guard at front] Good news... you can have an audience immediately. Seems the King was expecting you... that is if you're the mayor from Kippo?
<Cody> ^^; I'm not...but I was sent by him.
<Cody> He's sick right now.
<GMStoren> [Guard at back] (to Meira) Someone to go in with. I'll pretend I didn't see it. *^^*
<Cody> He asked me to come in his...stead. ^^
<GMStoren> [Guard at front] Is that so... well then, please proceed. Sorry for keeping you.
<GMStoren> He moves aside.
* Meira smiles and hugs the guard at back "Waai! Thank you! I think I hear someone down the hall a ways..."
* Meira twitches her kitty ears, turning them to listen closer.
* Rahne smiles at the guard, tail pace picking up for a second. "Thanks again." ^^
<Cody> Thank you Sir. ^^
<GMStoren> The other guard gets hugged by Meira, getting all red. "Uhh... why am I such a sucker?" ^^;
* Cody nods to the others, and proceeds down the hall. ^^
<GMStoren> [Guard in hallway] *snickers*
* Meira lets go quick, and heads down the hallway, bounce bouncing as she goes, heading for the group.
* Rahne follows, looking back to Tori. "Coming, Mr...? Uh... you know, I don't know your name yet. ^^; I'm terribly sorry."
* Tori strolls behind, looking slightly lost in all this.
<GMStoren> The bunch proceeds down the hall, passing Meira and the other guardsman. :)
<Tori> It's Tori.
<Cody> That's Tori. I'm sorry I didn't introduce you sooner. :/
* Rahne smiles. "Mr.Tori. Kay." ^^
* Meira folds her wings, waiting behind one of the guardsmen, using them as a visual shield, so she can sneak in behind the group unnoticed.
* Tori smiles for a moment. "Just Tori is fine."
<GMStoren> The guard at back whistles and doesn't stop Meira. "Go upstairs to meet the King." ^^
* Rahne blushes at Tori. "Kay. I'm really sorry... it's just habit." ^^;
* Cody looks around the walls of the palace. "Sort of...cold isn't it?"
<GMStoren> You hear a couple of children playing upstairs...
<Cody> Maybe not that cold... *smiles
* At least the people seem happy here.
* Meira blows a kiss to the guard, and slips in behind the group, walking silently, hoping they don't notice her until they're to the king.
* Tori suddenly remember that he's pretending to be cold and grim, and tries to look the part. "Don't worry about it."
<Rahne> Well... it could use some fireplaces. Fireplaces are nice. ^^
<GMStoren> [Guard in hallway] Don't tell me Phanna's kids are running in the halls again. *sigh*
<Cody> Phanna...I've heard that name somewhere before...
* Cody shrugs and walks on. ^^
<GMStoren> Tori gets the distinct feeling he's being followed by somebody.
<Rahne> She played a role in a series of events some 20 years ago. ^^
* Tori turns his neck and notices Meira.
<Tori> Umm...
<Tori> We seem to have picked up another one.
* Meira smiles cutely, and waves, one hand behind her back "Nyao! =^^="
* Cody snaps his fingers. "--Oh yes! With the Mana Knight! I remember now. Thanks Rahne."
<Cody> Yo...what?
* Cody turns around and blinks. "Um." O_o
* Tori waves nervously.
* Rahne cocks an ear back towards Tori before turning full around. "Uhm... hmm... ^^; Is there something we can do for you, Miss?"
<Cody> Yes...Can we...help you? ^^;;
* Cody coughs. ^^
* Meira shakes her head, still cutely smiling and waving hand dropping. "Nope! I'm supposed to see the king too! Just following you in... there's only one way in you know..."
<GMStoren> AS you get to the second level, you see two blue haired kids chasing each other. ^^
* Rahne looks to Tori expectantly for a moment as though to say "You're the tall, dark & brooding one; please, please make her go away." ^^;
* Meira blinks cutely at Rahne, and points to herself. "Make me go away?"
<GMStoren> A middle-aged woman chases after them, scooping them both up, her hair matching theirs however a much lighter shade.
<GMStoren> [Girl] Mommy! :D
<Phanna> You two... you know the King has visitors. You shouldn't cause a stir.
* Rahne looks at Meira. "I heard your conversation before. -_-; The whole thing. I know why you're following us." :P
<Cody> ^^; Well...I don't really see the harm in her coming...^^
<GMStoren> Phanna's dressed in a rather flattering green one piece dress. :)
* Meira sweatdrops, waving a dismissing hand. "Can we let it pass? One animal girl to another?"
<Cody> (w) Since she will probably flatten me with her breasts...
<GMStoren> Phanna looks up, noticing you on your way to the chamber with her hands quite full. ^_^
* Rahne's tail bristles, and her ears flatten. "I am not an animal." -_-
* Cody looks to Rahne. "No...No you're not. ^^"
<Phanna> Pardon me for bothering, but are you here to see King Elman?
* Meira blinks, and tilts her head, looking around Rahne at her tail, then looks up at her head. "Hooookaaay... if you say so ^^;"
<Cody> Yes Ma'am.
* Cody turns to Phanna. ^^;
<Phanna> Well, I may not look the part, but I'm the Chancellor for the time being...
* Rahne looks back to Phanna. "Indeed we are, Lady Phanna." ^^
<Phanna> Things are a little testy around here with the recent goings on... but please feel at home.
<Cody> Oh? ^^ Well, I guess I'm supposed to talk to you, then. ^^ Can you maybe direct me to the King's Chambers? I need to speak with him right away.
* Meira smiles, doing a perky bounce and waves to Phanna. "Nyao! We're all here to see him." =^^=
<Phanna> You're sure an interesting group.. I heard a person from Kippo was here to see him. Is that you, sir?
<Cody> Yes Ma'am...that'd be me. :)
<Phanna> Are you the mayor's son? You're very young... it must be hard.
* Meira blinks, and looks over at Cody, ears twitching, then giggles.
<Phanna> Please go meet with his Majesty right away... he's waiting to meet you.
<Cody> ^^; No! I'm just a villager from Kippo. ^^;
<Cody> But the Mayor asked me to come in his place.
<Phanna> Well, you can give us a good account of the events... please go right down the hall.
<Cody> Thank you.
<Phanna> Now if you'll excuse me, I need to take care of some personal matters..
* Rahne curtsies. "Thank you." ^_^
<GMStoren> [Boy] Yay... storytime! :D
<GMStoren> Phanna hushes the boy and walks to the left hallway, leaving the right free for you. :)
* Cody smiles at the boy, remembering back when he was that age.
* Meira wavies at Phanna as she leaves.
<Cody> Anyway...ready to go? ^^
<Meira> Meira's ready! =^^=
<Tori> I guess...I'm still kind of in the dark about what's going on though ^^;
<GMStoren> It's not soon before you reach the throne room. A few tapestries line the walls with Pandora's royal crest, and several guards stand ready. A rather aged man sits upon the throne, consulting a document in his right hand.
* Rahne nods, ears having since resumed their upright position, and tail once again in casual sway.
* Cody turns to Tori. "What about? Everything? ^^; Or just parts of it...I can fill you in, I guess."
<Tori> Well, I get that there's trouble at your village, but that's about all..
<GMStoren> [King] ...hmm...
<GMStoren> A trumpet sounds, announcing Cody. :D
<GMStoren> King Elman looks up from the missive.
* Meira slips in behind Rahne, examining her closely to see if she has fake ears and tail, hands held behind her waist.
<King Elman> Ah, come come. I've been expecting you, young Cody.
* Rahne curtsies, using her tail to correct her balance gracefully, she baps Meira in the face with it. "Your Highness." ^^
<GMStoren> Meira sees they certainly aren't fake! ^^
* Cody aghs and almost falls on his behind. ^^;
* Cody acks and quickly bows. ^^; "Y...Yes. I've traveled a long way, your Highness."
* Meira makes a curious kitty face after being smacked in the face, eyes following the tail around like it was a ball of yarn, taking a pouncing stance.
<Cody> Your Highness...I need your help. Someone poisoned the water supply in Kippo...A lot of people are either dead or dying...We're trying to find out who caused it...and if there's a cure.
<King Elman> I understand you're the son of the Hylissas... you have my deepest regrets about what has transpired in the past 24 hours.
* Cody nods, his face darkening.
* King Elman nods. "By the time my men arrived, we saw first hand what had happened. So far none of our physicians know of a cure for it."
<Cody> Do you know anyone who would know of a cure?
<King Elman> When we left to question the guardians of the national water supply, we found them knocked unconscious, and the vial of whatever spread this plague.
<Cody> So you don't know who caused it, then? It could have been anyone...
<King Elman> I have a suspicion it was the Empire...
<Cody> T...The Empire? O_o Why would they poison a town like Kippo?
<King Elman> Vandole has been making very secretive movements lately. I do not know what they are planning, or why such a village would be targeted by such a terrorist attack.
* Meira quietly bides her time, not really listening to the king at all, waiting to strike, eyes fixated on Rahne's tail.
<King Elman> However, we must focus on the cure, and not the blame at this moment. I had a favor to ask of you.
* Cody nods. "What is it you require me to do, your Highness?"
<King Elman> Since an antidote for the poison is beyond our means here, I'd request that you visit the sage of Water, Luka, and let her know of our condition.
<King Elman> I have been busy trying to keep the kingdom in relative order, and quarantine the spread, so my hands are relatively tied.
* Cody blinks, and smiles a little. "That shouldn't be a problem at all. Miss Rahne is her disciple. We were planning to go there anyway." ^^
<King Elman> Is that so?
<Cody> Y...Yes. ^^;
* Rahne smiles and nods. "Our meeting was circumstance, and I'm not really a disciple so much as a simple student." ^^;
<King Elman> Well, if Luka's disciple is with you, then I'm sure I can count on you to do it... and especially if Dyluck's name is with you, Cody.
* Rahne hastily adds, "..your Highness." ^^;
* Cody blinks. "Pardon?"
* Meira picks the most perfect (or imperfect) time to pounce, and grabs Rahne's tail. "Nyaaaoo! Gotcha!" =^^=
<King Elman> Dyluck Hylissa was a general who served under the former King Pandora, but fell to the dark magics of Thanatos.
* Rahne being infinitely more nimble, gracefully slips out of the grab, and watches Meira fall on the floor where she was standing a moment ago. ^^:
* Cody's face blanks, as if he's rather shocked. "He...was...? Hylissa...that was his last name...?"
<King Elman> My daughter Purim loved him greatly... yes it was. Though I was not aware he had a younger brother.
* Meira flails around, swimming comically in mid air, her chest's weight betraying her, and she falls flat on her chest and face, bouncing. @_@
* Rahne looks to Cody with a measure of concern.
<King Elman> Nevertheless, I owe it to your family to stop this malady quickly.
<Cody> I...I...It's...Yes...We'll head to the Water Palace. Thank you for your time, your Majesty...
<GMStoren> Rahne finds her tail's balance off center, causing her to wobble in front of his majesty. ^^
<King Elman> If you need as... are your companions well?
* Rahne quickly re-corrects herself, blushing profusely all the while. ^^;
<Cody> ^^; I think so.
<King Elman> Please be careful. You could be contaminated as well... luckily it is not spreadable in the air.
* Tori stifles laughter at Rahne and Meira and tries to be serious for Cody's sake.
* Cody nods. "We will...and we'll try to be as fast as we can. People are counting on us..."
* Meira leaps up in the air, wings spreading out and coasting back down to the ground, dusting herself off. "Hai! We'll try and be fast." =^^=
<King Elman>I see something in your eyes Cody... I have faith in you.
<GMStoren> Cody feels Elman looking at him almost like he recognizes something...
<Cody> Thank you, Your Highness. You probably have much to do, so we'll take our leave now. Thank you again.
* Cody blinks at his look, and shrinks back a bit.
<King Elman> I won't delay you anymore... I need to finish preparing shelter for the refugees.
* King Elman leans back into the chair a bit tiredly.
* Rahne ignores the buffoonish Neko, smiles at Cody, turns to the king, and apologizes profusely for having troubled him.
<Cody> Thank you again...
<Meira> Hai! Thank you Kingy! =^^=
* Cody bows and walks out of the Throne room.
* King Elman assures Rahne that no harm was done.
* Rahne smiles, curtsies and, tail resuming it's wag, and exits the room.
<GMStoren> With business concluded, the group heads outside the castle.. apparently with a new tag along for the moment at least. ^^
* Meira walks out behind Rahne, paws swatting at her tail, determined neko smile on her face, tongue sticking out cutely.
* Rahne turns on Meira the second the doors on the throne room are closed.
* Will you behave?! Who do you think you are, anyways? Grow up!" -_-;
* Meira bumps into Rahne and stands up rubbing her head "Anoooo... don't be so grumpy..."
* King Elman rubs his white beard a moment at the group exits. "Hmm... Purim......"- Pandora, Rabite's Tooth Tavern | Undine's Day, Daytime -
<GMStoren> ~~ Elsewhere ~~
<GMStoren> Keylia, Rachel, and Chrys manage to find a rather popular watering hole for the locals. Despite it's small size, it seems to cater to all patrons big and small and tailed for that matter. ^^
* Chrys grins. "Been months since I've been here. They seem to have gotten something to draw customers like flies to dog sh...er, well...guys, welcome to the Rabite's Tooth. ^_-
<GMStoren> You hear a few hoots and catcalls as you walk in, and you catch the tail end...ahem...of a 3 girl dancing act. ^_^;
* Rachel glances about and lowers her head a bit, not saying a word.
<Keylia> Now this is my kidna place. ^_^
<GMStoren> The 3 girls walk off stage, blowing heart-shaped kisses. :D
<Chrys> Babes, booze, and more babes... T'ts what this place is famous for. Some of the maintainers do have their connections, though...
<GMStoren> [Voiceover] And now, the act you've been waiting for!
<GMStoren> Chrys spots the rather crowded bar near the back.
* Chrys raises an eyebrow. "Eh? They finally found a replacement singer for that 'Tiffany' tramp that they shooed out of here?"
<GMStoren> [Voiceover] The Sexy Siren! The Magical Mistress!
<GMStoren> [Voiceover] Give a round of applause for our very own... Rhiana Athena!
<GMStoren> A spotlight comes on the rather run down stage!
<Chrys> Athena...? Name sounds familiar from somewhere...
* Rhiana steps out onto the stage, her heels clicking against the wood. Her form fitting outfit shows all of her curves, not leaving much for the imagination of her fans.
* Rachel looks up and blinks.
<GMStoren> [Man] Oh man.. I can die cuz I just saw my goddess right here! ;_;
* Chrys wideeyes and wolf-whistles. .oO(Now the only thing she's gotta do is sing well...)
<Keylia> Check it out...
<Chrys> I'm checkin', Key...believe me, am I ever checkin'.
* Rhiana looks out over the crowd as she slowly walks to the microphone, swaying her hips from side to side, her heels clicking along.
* Rachel raises both eyebrows.
<GMStoren> The bar gets much louder, but they soon fall silent waiting for Rhiana's classic song.
* Rhiana grins rather sadistically.
<Keylia> Chrys put your tongue back in your mouth. ;)
<Chrys> Um...sure. Just let me find my eyes first...
* Rachel raises her eyebrows more.
<Keylia> We're here to check out the info eh?
<Chrys> Yeah, time for that later, Key. ^_^
<Rachel> Uhhh, yeah, info. ^^;
* Rhiana waves her hand as the band behind her starts to kick up...
* Rhiana sings, "Somewhere in the world..."
<Rhiana> Somewhere in the dark..
<Rhiana> I can hear the voice that calls my name...
<Rhiana> Might be a memory...might be my future..
<Rhiana> Might be my love waiting for me!
<GMStoren> Rhiana gets a few rising "whoo"s from the crowd.
<Rhiana> Rock me gently
<Rhiana> Hug me tenderly!
<Rhiana> 'Til the morning breaks and the night fades away!
<Rhiana> I've spent my time in vain trapped inside pain...
<Rhiana> Don't let me down, help me see the light!
<GMStoren> Her voice has an impressive melody. She sounds like a pro...
<Keylia> Hey, she's pretty good. What she doing in a crap place like this? ^^
<Rhiana> Feeling bitter and twisted all along..
* Rachel looks down at her feet, feeling the words ring true deep in herself :p
<Rhiana> Wading through an empty life too long...
<Rhiana> I close my eyes and listen to the wind...
<Rhiana> Longing to belong to a higher place!
<Rhiana> Let me hear your voice...
<Rhiana> Let me be with you...
<Rhiana> When the shadow falls down upon me...
<Rhiana> Like a bird singing, like a breeze blowing...
<Rhiana> It's calling me...
<GMStoren> You start to hear some shouting outside the ramshackle door.. ^^
<Rhiana> From somewhere in the world!
* Chrys raises an eyebrow. "What gives, interrupting a great song by a greater singer..."
<GMStoren> [Voice] Hey, what the hell, this isn't a place for kids!
<Niki> I don't care! I'm thirsty and can get myself a drink here!!
* Chrys sweatdrops as he turns his head to the commotion...
<GMStoren> [Voice] Who are you? Go back to your crib or somethin'. :P
* Rachel sweatdrops and idly glances at Keylia before looking to the commotion.
<Niki> And if you don't move your gonna go visit the trees over there! *points off in some direction*
<GMStoren> Some men laugh. ^^
<GMStoren> Rhiana finds her concentration broken.
<Niki> Now MOVE!
<Chrys> ...Um, Key... do you see what I see...?
* Rhiana grumbles. "What the heck is going on out there?"
<Keylia> This looks like it's going to get a whole lot more fun.
<Chrys> Goddess, she's like -ten-...what the hell is she doing in a bar?
<GMStoren> In an instant the door is broken in. o_O
<Rachel> You're such a battle hoe, Key. ;)
* Rachel blinks at the door. ^^;
<GMStoren> The guy before goes flying... :P
* Niki walks in. "Ahh! Now I can get me a drink!" :D
<Rhiana> ....this doesn't look good...a fight is bound to break out
<Chrys> ...
<GMStoren> The bartender looks up from mixing a drink
* Chrys looks at the little'n. "What the hell...?"
* Rachel sweatdrops. "Wonderful."
* Niki walks over to the counter and hops up on a stool. "Hey you. I'm thirsty. Gimme something to drink."
<GMStoren> [Tender] What in blazes, you can't just barge in, even if yer a tyke. I don't serve minors.
<GMStoren> Some of the bar goers get restless... :P
<GMStoren> Rhiana's band stops playing.
* Chrys arghs and walks up to the bar.
<Niki> ...Your not gonna make me a drink? Fine. I'll make it myself!
<Chrys> Listen!
* Rhiana crosses her arms on stage, looking out at the disturbance.
* Niki hops over the counter.
<Chrys> If you aren't gonna pay for it, I will. -_-; Just stop the fighting, right?
<GMStoren> The bartender acks and picks Niki up! ^^
* Rachel watches beside Keylia, amused.
<Niki> ....PUT ME DOWN!
<Chrys> The last thing we need are the authorities here...you're not listening to me, are you?
<GMStoren> [Tender] You, git outta here!
* Niki kicks the bartender rather hard.
<GMStoren> The bartender gets shocked at the suprising strength of such a child, and gets all red as she gets him *right where it hurts*.
<GMStoren> [Tender] Gun'dangit!
* Chrys hides his face in his hands. "Great, and now the troops are gonna show up and then they'll see me and think -I'm- the one respnsible for all this..."
<GMStoren> Niki tumbles over the bar.
* Rhiana sighs, "Another performance ruined...some people..."
<GMStoren> [Patron] Hey, you don't hert Clive!
* Niki tumbles and stands up.
* Chrys rolls his eyes. "And then another thousand luc is gonna be put on my sorry hide."
<Niki> Hey, he wouldn't give me a drink. It's his fault!
<GMStoren> A few men kick out their stools and crack their bottles on the tabletop.
<Niki> Ohhhh...you wanna fight!? :D
<Rachel> Oh dear gods.
<GMStoren> [Patron] I dun care how old you are! Yer ruining ma drink!!
* Chrys clamps his hand over Niki's mouth, dragging her off. "Don't listen to her. She's just my little sister...she has a...um...chemical imbalance! She gets violent at everything..."
* Niki yanks an axe out of her sachel.
* Niki kicks Chrys in the shin.
<Chrys> Gah! ^^;
<Rhiana> ...okay..now I've had it...
* Rhiana steps off stage and walks over to the bar.
<Chrys> Key...help? Some? Please...?
* Niki then knocks him with the broad side of her axe.
<Keylia> Oh well.. wanna get that info the hard way Rachel?
<GMStoren> Chrys is knocked back. o_O
* Rachel grins in amusement. "Always."
* Chrys flies into the wall, and then picks himself up, seriously miffed.
<Niki> Alright! :D Lets fight!
<GMStoren> Rhiana gets over just in time to see the bar goers advancing on the poor defenseless kid... NOT!
<Rhiana> ...enough of the fighting...<GMStoren> >> Patron A, B, C appear! Begin Combat!
* Chrys walks back over to Rachel and Keylia. "This is NOT the place for us to be... let's try another bar...
<Rachel> But...!
<Rhiana> ..stop this! She's just a kid!
<GMStoren> They don't seem to be listening... the three people manage to pick up Niki and throw her outside! ^^
* Chrys looks up to the singer. "Now, listen. I don't know what, but that kid has some problems. She's takin' steroids or somethin'."
<GMStoren> [Patron] Ah'm takin this outside, missy!
* Rachel sweatdrops and rubs her neck. "Pfft..."
* Niki lands on her back, then quickly gets back up.
<Niki> Fine by me! More space for me to kick your sorry butts!
<GMStoren> >> Niki's action!
* Rhiana looks back to the kid who just spoke to her, "Violence is hardly the answer."
* Chrys sweatdrops. "She acts like a drunk old man."
<Keylia> This is kinda sickening to just watch... we helping or not? ^^;
* Niki runs towards the first Patron and slashes him with her axe.
<Rachel> Hey, I'm up for a fight. You?
* Rachel draws her sword. ^_^
<Chrys> I vote for no. That kid already irritates me, and besides...we're not involved. -_-;
<GMStoren> >> Niki charges forward... stance Offensive! Niki attacks Patron A! :D
* Rhiana steps outside to the fight, "Get back in the bar, you blockheads! There could be real fights goin' on right now!"
<Chrys> (m to Rachel and Keylia) I think this is why she's not someplace better...
<Niki> Take THIS!
<GMStoren> >> Niki slices the guy's thighs... 24 damage!
<GMStoren> >> Charge at 1/2!
* Rachel grimaces and waggles her sword. "Aw man."
* Rachel sighs and sheathes it again.
<GMStoren> [Patron] Why you runt!
<GMStoren> >> Patron A goes offensive... he attacks Niki with a broken bottle! :D
* Niki hops back to where she was and readies herself. :D
<GMStoren> >> Niki gets an owie.. ^^ 13 damage!
<Rhiana> ...I can't believe you people would stoop to attacking a little girl.
<Niki> Hey! You hit me. You little meanie!
<GMStoren> >> Patron B chucks a knife at Niki from behind his friend. ;)
<GMStoren> >> 5 damage!
<Niki> HAHA your throwing sucks! :D
<Chrys> ...THAT'S a little girl?
<Chrys> More like some sort'a demon...
<GMStoren> >> Patron C charges Niki... Offensive! He tries to punch her in the gut and make her shut up! 10 damage!
* Niki coughs a little. "OH, why you!"
<GMStoren> Rhiana walks out of the bar onto the scene!
<GMStoren> >> Rhiana joins the combat scenario!
<Rhiana> I'm not agreeing with what the girl has done, but if you insist on ganging up on a little girl, I'll have to put a stop to it.
* Chrys shrugs. "Aw, what the fuck ever. Keylia, Rache, you guys up for a fight?"
<Rachel> Always.
* Rachel leaps into the fray!
<GMStoren> [Patron] I can't hurt ya Rhiana... just let us shut this kid's yap!
* Chrys pulls out his daggers and twirls them, ala Rei.
* Chrys follows after Rache! ^_^
* Keylia yawns. ^^
* Niki is ignoring Rhiana and her comments...concentrating on the fight.
<GMStoren> >> Chrys, Rachel join the fight!
<Rhiana> Let the girl go, or I will inflict pain upon you.
<GMStoren> >> Chrys's action!
<GMStoren> [Patron] Why you defendin' her... she took out your boss!
<Rhiana> Because she's a little girl! She didn't know any better, most likely!
* Chrys shifts into an offensive position, and rushes at a Patron, slicing away. "Listen. Lay off, okay, you drunk little prick?"
<GMStoren> [Patron] She can read... she's old enuf!
<GMStoren> >> Chrys does his thing... Offensive... attacku! :D
* Niki watches as Chrys attacks the patrons. "What stupid looking hair..."
<Rhiana> ...then prepare to taste my wrath, I promise it won't be an enjoyable experience.
<GMStoren> >> Chrys slices Patron A... he gets WHACKED! 21 damage! 2nd strike: 10!
* Chrys glares at Niki. "Hey. Don't diss the hair. I can still hit you."
<GMStoren> >> Charge at 1/2!
* Niki ignores Chrys once again...concentrating on the battle.
<GMStoren> >> Niki's action! (Stance Offense)
* Niki just runs towards Patron A not hearing a word Chrys said and slashes him. :D
<GMStoren> >> Niki attacks the bad man. ;_;
<GMStoren> >> Patron A gets the axe right across his mug! WHACKED! 36 damage! Patron A falls over in a drunken stupor! ^^
<GMStoren> [Patron] Arghhfrgrhf
<Niki> HAHA you suck! :D
* Niki stomps on the broken bottle that he was holding, returning to where she was before.
<GMStoren> >> Niki is 2/2! :)
<GMStoren> >> Rachel's action!
* Rachel draws her sword and waves at Keylia in a show off manner. ;) "You're missing the fun!" She drops into offensive!
* Rachel dashes at Patron B and slashes him hard!
<Keylia> Actually, I think fighting can be a nice spectator sport.. ^_^
<GMStoren> >> Rachel goes Offense and kicks tail! :D
<GMStoren> >> Patron B suffers 17 damage!
<GMStoren> >> Charge at 1/2!
<GMStoren> >> Rhiana's action!
<GMStoren> [Patron] Good thing I drank that Jack Daniels.. I didn't feel nothin'!
* Rhiana holds her hand over head, "Powers of old, bestow your weapon in my hand! I call upon the whip of thorns!"
* Rhiana snaps the aura whip at Patron B, "You'll feel this, I'm afraid."
* Chrys raises an eyebrow. "Magic?"
<GMStoren> >> Rhiana powers a spell! A whip of magical thorns forms in her hand, lashing out frenzily at Patron B!
<GMStoren> >> Whip of Thorns! 58 damage! Patron B eats dirt...
<GMStoren> [Patron] How couldja do that.. o_O
<Chrys> Whoa.
* Rhiana grins sadistically. "Enjoy the pain of my wrath..."
* Chrys whistles.
<GMStoren> >> Patron C rubs his fists together and lumbers at Rhiana!
<Chrys> Sexy and able to kick your ass. You're the third woman I've met today that can do that.
<Niki> Wow, that was a cool move. :D But I have something better!
* Rhiana snickers at the Patron, "Shouldn't you sober up first?"
<GMStoren> >> Patron C uses Drunken Fist! ^^
<Keylia> Why thanks Chrys. ^_-
* Rachel flushes lightly.
<GMStoren> >> He stumbles around, but then cops a cheap feel as well as a sucker punch.. 31 damage! ^^
<GMStoren> [Patron] Stop fighting and sing fer me ^^
* Rhiana doubles over and coughs, "What a pathetic move..."
<GMStoren> >> Chrys' action!
* Chrys walks up idly and kicks the patron in the family jewels. Seeing that has no effect WHATSOEVER, he proceeds to make Patron cutlets. :P
<GMStoren> >> Chrys attacks Patron C! 1: Missed! 2: 10!
* Rhiana stands back up, holding her side, the tight leather outfit she's wearing obviously isn't made for fighting, but for showing off.
<GMStoren> >> Charge is 2/2!
<Rhiana> Guess I'll have to use another trick I know.
<GMStoren> >> Niki's action!
<Niki> Now I'll chop you up with my super secret strike! :D
* Niki jumps as high into the air as her little body will let her, using any leverage she can find. She holds her axe with 2 hands and throws it at Patron A with all her might. When she lands she runs towards Patron A and yanks her axe out.
<GMStoren> Chrys acks as Niki hops off him!
* Chrys acks! "Hey!!"
<GMStoren> >> Niki uses a charge attack! Sky Missile!
<Rhiana> ...maybe I won't have to use another trick.
<GMStoren> >> The helpless guy doesn't even see it coming, too busy with Rhiana.. 52 damage!
<GMStoren> >> Patron C sees the Reaper x_X
<Rhiana> ..idiots.
<Niki> Guess that Jack stuff didn't work for that move. Oh well. :D Time to get my drink!<GMStoren> >> All enemies are defeated... the area is clear! :)
* Chrys twirls his knives and puts them back in his pouch. "Hey now, kid."
* Rhiana leans up against the wall for a second, "Been a long time since I've had to do that..."
<Chrys> If you wanna get drinks, don't go busting heads, alright?!
<GMStoren> >> Patron B left a treasure chest!
<Niki> Ooh! Chests!
* Chrys 's eyes sparkle. "Ooh!
<Chrys> Hey!
* Niki runs over it to open it.
* Chrys pushes Niki out of the way. "Mine!"
* Niki kicks Chrys in the family jewels.
<Niki> No, MINE!
* Rachel watches and heads back to Keylia, standing beside her. "Freaks."
<Rhiana> ..ahem.
<GMStoren> Chrys find Niki's persuasive efforts a bit overwhelming. ^^
<Chrys> Agh%&@!_*
<Chrys> >_<
<Keylia> I like her. She's a cute kid.
* Chrys falls to the ground classically. :p
* Rhiana walks over the Chrys and Niki, "If the chest belongs to anyone, it's me. I killed that one."
<Rachel> I was referring to Chrys. ;)
<Chrys> Yeah...cute like a polar bear.
<Niki> Maybe that you can use some of that Jack stuff to make it feel better. Now chest time! :D
<GMStoren> Niki's already on the chest! ^^
* Niki takes takes her axe and smacks the chest with it.
<Rhiana> ...of course I am not interested in material things.
<GMStoren> The axe makes a dull metallic clank, and the box pops open.
<GMStoren> Inside is...
<GMStoren> >> A really weird black creature! o_O
<Chrys> >_< The...hell?
<GMStoren> It hops out and makes a funny face at Niki!
<Niki> Hey! Who are you. Gimme my treasure!
<GMStoren> [Shadow 0] Hahah! :D:D
<Niki> WHY YOU! NO ONE MAKES FACES AT ME!!
* Niki swings at the creature with her axe.
<GMStoren> The tiny shadow runs off into the streets! ^^
<Niki> COME BACK HERE!!
* Niki chases after it.
<Chrys> Gah...I've heard about those things...
<GMStoren> In fact, it brushes right by Cody. ^^;
<Chrys> Oh well... Someone...please...medical...aid... >_<
<Chrys> Owch..
* Niki on the other hand doesn't brush by Cody, but runs him over. ^^;
<Rhiana> ..guess I'll be on my way.
* Cody acks and smacks into the ground hard! O_o
<Niki> GET BACK HERE!
<Rahne> Hey! Watch where you're going! O_o
<GMStoren> Cody's bunch sees Cody felled by a little girl. How degrading. ^^
* Tori offers Cody a hand back up.
* Rahne tries to help Cody up. "You okay?"
<Tori> You OK?
<GMStoren> Niki can't find the little thing anywhere...
* Cody ows and rubs his head, taking a random person's hand. "Yeah...I'm okay. Thanks. ^^;"
* Niki stops as she can't find it. "YOU WIMP! I'LL FIND YOU AND CHOP YOUR SORRY BUTT UP!"
<Keylia> Oh that was rich.. did you see her running? ^_^
<Chrys> No...too busy...pain...ow.
<Cody> Who was that...?
<Keylia> Kid, you're not gonna find a Shadow Zero like that! *cuts off Niki*
* Rhiana disappears somewhere.
<Niki> Oh why not?! Then where can I find that thing? ...Shader what?
<Chrys> ow ow ow ow owww
* Chrys is on the ground, in pain. Nobody cares. Yay! ^_^
<Keylia> It's a shadow zero... they love pulling pranks.
<Niki> It's not gonna pull a prank on ME!
<GMStoren> The bartender finally comes outside, seeing the mess.
* Cody looks behind him. "A...girl?"
<Cody> ...Ack! O_o Chrys!
<Rachel> Someone should heal Chrys. Just a thought.
<Niki> I'm gonna chop its head off and us it like a soccer ball!
<GMStoren> [Tender] Aw damn... just get that girl away from my tavern!
<Chrys> Ow...
<Niki> Oh forget it...I'm thirsty!
<Rhiana> ...next time just give her some water and be done with it, idiot.
<Chrys> No..problem. Mind giving me back my manhood? I think it got kicked into my stomach... >_<
* Niki runs back to the tavern and walks back inside. "Now for my drink!" :D
<Rachel> Wow, I'd pay money to see that!
* Rachel snickers. ;)
* Cody rushes to Chrys. ^^; "Hey...you all right? How many fingers am I holding up?"
* Keylia sighs.
* Meira makes a face at Chrys, krinkling up her nose "Eeew.. that's a nasty picture."
<Chrys> Gh...which one of you...?
* Rachel touches Key's elbow. "You okay?"
* Niki jumps back on the stool she was on earlier. "Now...gimme something to drink!"
<GMStoren> Niki find everyone is scared crapless of her, and she gets a nice drink of any kind she wants just to go away. ;)
* Cody looks around wearily, hoping most people aren't looking.
<Cody> (w) Here goes nothing...
<Cody> Soil and green, mercy's touch, to life and soul, to breath and tears. I pray for thee...
* Cody closes his eyes, and his hands start to glow with a gentle green aura. He then reaches out with an open palm and gently touches Chrys's wounds, causing them to mysteriously vanish, like a bad dream...
<GMStoren> >> Chrys is healed! (tm)
* Rahne surveys the area. "And Master Joch thought it would be good for me to leave Mandala and see the world..." ^^;
* Niki chugs it down.
<Chrys> Gah...
<Chrys> That little bitch...
* Rhiana sits down at the bar on the opposite side, sipping on something, the fight took something out of her.
<GMStoren> The band members back inside see Rhiana all cut up. "Babe, you ok?"
* Chrys slowly gets up. ^^;
* Niki walks out of the tavern with another glass full of......MILK!
* Rhiana nods, "I'm fine. Just a little exercise...nothing I can't handle."
* Meira is peering at Chrys "You have a nasty mind."
<Keylia> I guess we should go inside and ask around now... since everyone's scared to death of our good luck charm. ;)
<Chrys> ...Excuse me?!
<Chrys> I've never met you, much less hit on you...how do you know what kind of mind I have?
<Rachel> Sure. ^^;
* Niki chugs the second glass of milk.
* Tori taps Cody on the shoulder. "So what the King said before is true? The trouble is in Kippo?"
<Meira> Your manhood is in your stomach? Eeew!
* Niki notices Rahne. "Wow! What neato ears! Lemme see!" :D
<Chrys> WELL, IF SOMEONE KICKED YOU THERE THAT HARD, IT WOULD HURT A BIT. I HOPE YOU UNDERSTAND THAT.
* Chrys is still speaking a few octaves higher than usual, for the record.. ^^;
<Keylia> o_O
* Rachel fights back a laugh. ^^;
* Niki looks at Rahne. "Where did you buy those ears? I wanna buy some too!"
* Rahne presses her ears back against her head. "No... I need them to hear, you should probably leave them alone. If I could give them to you, I would." -_-;
<GMStoren> [Band Dude] That was a real shame, ruining our gig. You up to doing another?
* Chrys slowly waddles (note that) into the pub again.. ^^;
<Niki> What do you mean if you could? I can just buy some. :D
* Meira blinks, unphased by the yelling, same exact look, then slowly smiles, not even acknowledging his comment "Nyao."
* Rhiana shakes her head. "No..not today..I had to do something out there I haven't done in years...it's taken it's toll on me..."
* Chrys looks back to Meira briefly before reentering the bar. "By the way... you're cute. We should get together and talk later."
* Chrys enters the bar, hoping to assimilate the cheap booze. :P
* Meira shakes her head "Iie, You have a dirty mind."
<GMStoren> [Tender] I can't believe that girl... I outta go back out there... *mumble*
<GMStoren> Keylia walks into the bar, kinda at odds what to make of Niki, but she obviously likes her style.
<Niki> Where did you buy those ears? I like them. :D
* Rhiana sips at her drink again.
* Niki notices Meira now. "Oh wow, she has the same kind of ears....almost. They must have bought them at the same place!"
<Keylia> They are real, kid. Btw, what's your name at least?
* Chrys plops down on a barstool, wincing a little, "Bartender...give me some of your strongest...please... I just lost a very, very important body part..." >_<
* Rahne sighs and flicks them a bit, to demonstrate their realness. "I didn't buy them." -_-
<GMStoren> [Tender] I just lost business... go on. On da house.
* Meira ears wiggle, and cutely waves at Niki "They're real, not bought... so are the other girls." ^^
* Niki looks at Keylia. "Why should I give you my name? If I do you'll want me phone number. Your are probably a lesbo or something."
<GMStoren> The bartender Clive slides a nice brandy down to Chrys.
<Chrys> Thanks. >_< That kid is a hellion, I tell you...
* Cody leans against the side of the bar, and slinks into a sitting position. There's obviously something on his mind.
* Niki looks back at Meira. "Oh really. Man, I wanted some too."
* Chrys swigs the stuff down in a single gulp, not really caring about getting pissed.
* Keylia blinks
* Rachel hangs out in the rear of the bar, watching everyone but sortof blending in with the shadows.
* Tori taps Cody on the shoulder again. "Um...Cody? Like I said: The King was telling the truth when he said that there was trouble in Kippo?"
<Keylia> Goddess, you're a laugh... what tree you grow on? ^_^
<Cody> Yeah...
* Meira reaches up, scritching one of her ears. "I'm sure you could buy them... but they wouldn't work...."
<Niki> Tree? I'm not some fruit! I'm Niki! AGH...you know my name now!
<Chrys> Anyways, Clive, was it...?
* Keylia laughs. "Ha, gotcha!" ;)
<Cody> The town was poisoned, Tori...
<Clive> That's me.
* Rhiana blinks at what she hears . o O (Poisoned?)
<Tori> Oh...thats kind of...odd.
<Niki> Well don't go spreading it around. Then everyone will want my phone number!
<Rhiana> ...excuse me...
<Keylia> What, so they can invite you over to crash a nice party?
* Rhiana looks over at Cody, "How was the town...poisoned?"
<Keylia> Actually, that's not a bad idea...
* Rahne waits quietly near the entrance, not quite feeling comfortable in so populated a place.
<Chrys> You and the others always been there for me when I've needed info before, so I figured why not now... Name's Soryuu. I'm looking for the people who poisoned the town of Kippo... perhaps you've heard about it?
<Niki> Nooo...cuz they might want to do dir...what's a good idea?
<Clive> Oh yeah, it's all over the place. The refugees comin in...
* Meira skips over to the entrance bounce bouncing all the way, and stops in front of Rahne, just smiling at her cutely.
* Chrys nods. "So, any ideas who's behind it?"
<Clive> You know what I'm worried bout though...
<Rhiana> ...how was the town poisoned?
* Chrys looks interested, cuz he is. "What's that?"
* Rahne looks up at Meira, indifferent.
<Clive> I think it's the same people who kidnapped Purim way back.
* Chrys wideeyes. "Purim? The crown princess?!"
<Rhiana> ...someone tell me...how was the town poisoned.
<Cody> ...We think the empire did it...
<Clive> You mean you didnt know?!
* Chrys shakes his head no.
* Meira waves to Rahne. "Hi again! I didn't catch your name =^^="
<Clive> They say she's off on a trip, but everyone with half a brain knows she was hijacked! :o
* Rahne looks up. "Rahne. Rahne Ward." :/
<Rhiana> ...ahem...
<Chrys> Oh... I never knew she left, actually... ^^; Anyways... if the guys who 'took' her are the guys that poisoned Kippo...how in the hell do we know -who- they are?
* Niki walks back up to Meira and Rahne looking at both of their ears.
<Cody> ...We don't...The King said he thinks the Empire did it...
<Tori> Hmm...I never would have guessed...that's just...
* Rhiana gets off her stool and walks over to Cody. "How was the town poisoned?"
<Clive> Well, the authorities have been really tense lately. Whoever's hiding I hope they fin 'em. But if you ask me, I think they're looking in the wrong places.
<Cody> ...I...We're not sure...Someone poisoned the water supply... and... Everyone got sick...
<Niki> Wow, those are so cool. :D You two are lucky. I want some ears like that!
<Rhiana> Poisoned water supply..
* Chrys hmms. "You think the market'd have some leads...?"
* Rhiana scratches her chin, "....hmmmm...."
<Rhiana> And what did the poison do, exactly?
<Cody> It either killed them...made them sick...or changed their physical appearance totally...
<Clive> Nah, nobody about here knows who it was exactly, but I did see some shifty characters snooping around the city before it happened.
<Cody> In some case...they became monsters...
<Rahne> Actually, Miss, they're really overrated. :/
<Chrys> I'll remember that. Thanks.
<Rhiana> ...I see.
<Rhiana> ...I can identify your criminal.
* Niki walks into the tavern since Rahne and Meira won't say anything. "I want another glass of milk!" :D
* Meira smiles and waves at Niki. "Thanks!"
<Clive> You hear about the rumor going around bout the Empire?
* Chrys nods. "I doubt it, though."
* Rhiana walks back over and sits on her bar stool, sips at her drink again.
<Cody> ...I'm sorry...It's just...I just found out something not too long ago that sort of has me unglued....I...*Sighs*
<GMStoren> Niki finds there's a lot of milk sitting there for her. ^^
<Niki> Woo!
<Cody> You...you can?
* Niki reaches in her sachel to pay for them.
<GMStoren> In fact, she also notices something's missing.
* Meira turns back to Rahne, and tilts her head curiously. "I'm Meira Cadence! ...you don't look too happy... you ok?"
<Rhiana> ..I suppose you want to know who did it, don't you?
<GMStoren> Nothing... you're shiny 100 Luc piece is gone!
<Cody> Of course! Who?
<Niki> ....HEY! WHERE IS MY MONEY! I HAD SOME MONEY HERE! Who stole it!!
* Chrys sweatdrops. .oO(Ooooooh shit.)
<Keylia> Uh oh... I think someone's acting up again.
<Rhiana> Nakano Takeda.
* Niki looks at Keylia. "WHO!?"
<Rhiana> She's an Imperial Ninja.
<Rahne> I'm just... this place is loud, and for the most part, so are alot of it's people, and I'm not too big a fan of loud places or people. :/
<Chrys> .oO(Don't rat me out, Key...please...)
<Clive> Whassat Rhiana, you know som... hey you pipe down!
<Cody> A ninja? *blinks*
<Niki> SHUT UP! I WANT MY MONEY BACK!
<Cody> Do you know why she'd poison Kippo...?
* Keylia whistles.
<Rhiana> She was probably under Imperial orders, from Flaresoul or higher.
* Rhiana sips again.
<Niki> Hey, where is my money!
<Chrys> Thanks for the drink, Clive...and thanks for the info. I'll be on my way now, though... ^^;
* Niki stops Chrys.
<Niki> NO ONE LEAVES TILL I GET MY MONEY!
<Cody> How ...do you know so much about them?
* Meira smiles and reaches up to cover Rahne's ear. "Here! I'll help make it not so loud! =^^="
<Keylia> What the
* Chrys starts out of the bar...to be stopped by Niki. "..."
<Chrys> Geezus.
<Keylia> How do you know about Imperial High Command?
<Chrys> Violent much?
* Rhiana smiles. "You shouldn't ask so many questions."
<Niki> Who has my money!
<Cody> S...Sorry. I don't mean to sound ungrateful...
* Rahne's ear instinctively flicks the obstruction away. "Ack... No... ^^; Don't... I'm used to it. Just uncomfortable is all." ^^;
* Niki looks at Cody. "Do you know who stole my money?!"
<Cody> ...No. I don't. I'm sorry, Miss...
<GMStoren> Keylia taps a finger to her chin.
* Niki, getting pissed off, kicks an empty stool.
<Rhiana> But there's no doubt to me that the Empire is behind it.
<Chrys> Hey, kid...
<Cody> I just don't understand why...
* Meira smiles and takes her hands back "Okay! Want me to leave you alone?" =^^=
<Niki> What?! Did you steal it!? Or do you know who stole it!?
<Cody> I don't understand anything anymore. I don't know why they did this...why my parents lied to me...I don't understand anything....
* Chrys looks around and points to Tori. "He's a thief...he could have it..."
<Niki> Okay...
* Niki walks over to Tori...dragging Chrys with her.
<Rhiana> The motives of such groups like the Empire are always like that, young sir.
<Chrys> Gack! ...hey, lemme go!
<Niki> Hey you...gimme back my money!
* Tori turns to notice Niki and Chrys.
<Cody> I guess...Thank you, Miss...
<Tori> Do I look like I have any money?
<Niki> This guy with the stupid hair said you stole it!
<Clive> Geez, that kid...
<Chrys> Hey! My hair isn't stupid!
<Rhiana> Rhiana is fine. I am not a fan of titles.
<Tori> He's the thief...he probably lifted it from you when you kneed him.
* Cody grins a little. "Me neither. I'm Cody. Cody Hylissa. ^^"
<Niki> Oh....Hey, that's right. He's the only one who was near me!
<Chrys> ...Ooooohshit. ^^;
* Rahne sighs, her tail swaying slowly. "I'm not gonna tell you to go away Miss Cadence. To stay or to go is a decision you and you alone have to make, I can't make it for you. Or at least, I'd rather not."
<Tori> I would hurt him badly if I were you. ^_^
* Niki picks up Chrys and turns him upside down and starts to shake him.
<Rhiana> Well Cody, I would suggest you head to the Empire if you want answers to your questions.
<Keylia> I'm Keylia, me and Rachel here are mercs helping Cody out.
* Chrys is shaken, not stirred.
<Niki> Where is my money!?
<Cody> The empire...
* Meira makes a puzzled kitty face. "Miss? Do I look that old? =;_;="
<GMStoren> Keylia indicates Rachel, keeping her distance. Meira's eye happens to catch the rusty sword she has for an instant.
<Rhiana> Of course, the Empire isn't known for their hospitality.
<Chrys> Iiii can't te-e-ell you... bloo-o-od rushing to head.. @_@
* Niki continues to shake Chrys.
<Cody> But if I travel all the way there...it may be too late to save them...
<Rhiana> You might need a little help getting there, I'd say.
<GMStoren> Chrys starts feeling faint and a familiar coin drops out of his fingers. ^^
* Meira blinks, stopping her comic sobbing and looking over at Keylia, blinking.
<Cody> Yeah...
<Niki> AHH! There it is. So that other man was right!
<Chrys> Gkch... @_@;
* Cody looks at Rhiana and blinks a little. ^^:
<Niki> Stupid stealer!
<Chrys> Yes. Me stupid. Now lemme down... @_@
* Niki turns around and throws Chrys out the door.
<Rahne> It's just proper. And habit. I am sorry, Miss Cadence. ^^;
<Chrys> GAH! Hey! Not that way! ^^;
* Chrys becomes a living projectile.
<GMStoren> Niki can't do that, quite.
* Rhiana looks over at Cody, "I suppose you're gonna ask me to go, eh?"
* Chrys is thrown into the wall. ;_;
<Niki> Ow...hey you're heavier then I thought.
<GMStoren> Chrys does go flying a nice distance away though!
<Cody> ^^; Only if you want to. It'll be dangerous.
<Chrys> Ow.
<Chrys> Oh well...at least she didn't knee me again...
* Rhiana snickers, "I'm a little tougher than I might look."
* Niki picks up her coin and walks over to Keylia. "Hey, did you see that blue streak when I threw him? That was cool!"
<Cody> ^^; Okay then...Do you want to be paid?
* Keylia sighs. "Hey, you wanna help bust some heads?"
* Chrys gets up, pulling him self to Rhiana. "Miss...Athena was it...?"
* Cody blushes. "I don't mean that kind of money...just...you know...Mercenary money...erhm...Uh...*sigh*
<Rhiana> I don't do what's right...for money.
* Meira sweatdrops, laughing a little. "Just Meira! Dont make me feel like an old lady..." =^^=
<Niki> Bust heads? Will I get to bust that shadow thing too?
<Keylia> I'll help you find that nasty trickster if you want. ^_-
<Niki> YEAH!
<Cody> Okay then...
<Rhiana> I have no love for the Empire...and what they did to Kippo is wrong.
<Niki> I wanna chop him up! :D
<Chrys> Rhiana Athena, wasn't it? ^^; Sorry if I get it wrong, I'm a bit groggy...
* Rahne offers her apologies again. ^^;
<Niki> But that stupid hair guy better not steal from me again!
* Rhiana looks at Chrys. "I'm talking with Cody right now, save your cheap pick up lines until after I'm done talking with him."
* Niki walks over to the counter and looks at the bartender. "How much?"
<Keylia> You can just throw him again... but warn me so I can catch him in my arms. ^_-
<Chrys> Gah... I just wanted to know what the hell you used back there... -_-;
* Cody sighs. ^^:
<Cody> I really hate to sound rude...but I need some fresh air...
* Niki looks back at Keylia. "Okay! As long as I get to see him fly!" :D
<Clive> Forget it, kid. Just don't stick around long, alright?
<Cody> I...I have a lot to think about...this bar is crowded...
* Chrys walks out of the bar. "Sorry. My fault. I'll leave."
<Niki> Wow...free. Thanks!
<Rhiana> ...I will say Cody...I do know a lot about the Empire...so I'll gladly lend you my services.
* Cody stands up, and walks outside, but brushes by Rahne accidentally as he goes.
* Niki chugs down another glass of milk.
* Rahne blushes, but her tail wags excitedly for a moment. ^^;
* Meira giggles cutely, and chest bounces as she moves suddenly to avoid getting bumped into as well. "It's ok!"
* Chrys is already on his way lord-knows where, mumbling again.
* Cody's face seemed pretty sad as he left ^^;
* Meira looks at Rahne's cheeks, reaching out with a finger to poke a red spot.
<GMStoren> [Band Dude] You're going somewhere, Rhi?
* Rahne gathers her breath, and elects to catch up with Cody.
* Niki finishes her third glass of milk and walks back outside.
<Rahne> Sorry, Miss Meira. ^^;
* Rahne darts out of the bar.
* Rhiana nods to the Band dude. "I've got some things to do, yes...I wanna help that kid, as well as...take care of some personal things while I'm gone."
* Rahne quietly follows him for a few steps. "Are... are... you okay, Cody?"
* Cody is leaning against the wall, looking at nothing, really. ^^:
<GMStoren> [Band Dude] Bummer. We're gonna miss you. Maybe we can get my sister to sing some tunes.
<Cody> ....Not really...No....
* Meira blinks, a confused kitty look on her face as she watches Rahne go, looking around for others to bother
<Rhiana> Your sister isn't bad, I'm sure she'll do a good job.
<Rhiana> But later guys.
<Clive> Rhiana.. I never figured you'd leave like this.. must be something important. I never did give ya a vacation anyway.
* Niki sits down next to the tavern door leaning against the wall. "Ahh, this place is great. Free milk." ^_^
<GMStoren> Niki sees a dagger poking through the wall.
<Rahne> I know you have alot of stuff on your mind... and I know I'm still kind of a stranger... but... but is there anything you wanted to get off your chest?
* Rhiana snickers, "I'm sure you'll get over it...it's not like I'm a big star or anything."
<GMStoren> Cody and Rahne see the dagger outside, and Chrys nowhere to be seen.
<Niki> Huh...whats this. *tries to grab the dagger without cutting herself and pull it out*
<Cody> ...Well...You sort of heard it already...Rahne...I...I never had a brother...I don't know what King Elman was talking about...
* Meira stands at the tavern door still, towering over the sitting Niki. "Did you know cats are lactose intolerant?" =^^=
* Rahne looks down, wringing her tail again.
<GMStoren> Niki can't pull it out from the blade side. :P
* Rhiana exits the bar and walks up to the others.
<Cody> But...he might be right. I found a picture of him in my house when I was small...and my parents became upset and told me never to look at it again...
<Cody> Why would they hide that from me?
* Niki's grip slips and she falls on her butt. She looks up at Meira. "Oh really? Whats Laktoss intallart?"
* Cody sighes. "I'm sorry. I'm babbling..."
<Rhiana> ...you mean you have a party, here Cody?
<GMStoren> Keylia thanks Clive, and takes Rachel outside, worried about her noticeable mood shift.
<Rahne> Maybe, after we talk to Miss Luka, and get a cure for your village, you can ask them.
<Rahne> I know what it's like to have unanswered questions though.
<Niki> Does it mean you like milk too? I can get you a free glass if you want one!- Kingdom of Pandora | Undine's Day, Daytime -
* Meira bends over, looking down at Niki, chest always a predominant feature. "We can't drink milk, but people still feed it to their pets... and it gives them health problems..."
* Cody blinks. "I...I guess so. It's just...I wonder what else they haven't told me..."
<Rhiana> ...appears like I'll be babysitting a lot...
<Niki> Well that's stupid. They should feed them something like...umm...uhh...maybe that jack stuff that one guy was talking about. :D
<Keylia> I think we should all get a room for the night... whattaya say?
* Tori notices the departing group and follows outside.
<Rhiana> ...why don't you stay at my place?
<Keylia> We also need to find Chrys, but leave that to me. *pulls his dagger out*
<Rhiana> ...so I can get my things together as well.
* Meira makes a confused face "I don't think Jack would like being drank... well, I don't know Jack... maybe he would..." =x.x=
<Rahne> Sometimes, there are things that we really shouldn't know... I grew up hearing alot of things that were meant to be said behind my back. But the important things will surface, in time. That's always what Joch told me..
<Niki> I don't know Jack either, but that one guy said that he drank a bottle of him.
* Keylia notices a note fall off and catches it. "Huh?"
<Cody> ...Thank you, Rahne. For listening to me...
* Cody smiles at her warmly. ^^
* Meira shudders, chest jiggling. "Eeeew... Jack in a bottle... that sounds nasty!" =X_x=
* Rahne \'s tail swishes back and forth, and she blushes. "Just don't feel you're alone, kay?"
<Keylia> Hmm... directions. I knew I could count on you. :)
* Niki gets a puzzled look on her face. "I wonder if Jack tastes good..."
* Rhiana crosses her arms and taps her foot. "I'm offering you free lodgings for the night, is anyone listening?"
<Cody> It's funny...I'm used to being alone.
<Cody> But I kind of like not being alone, too. A lot more ^^
* Keylia pockets the note. "Well don't just stand there, go for it! Free... HELLLO?!"
* Niki stands up. "Oh well. I like milk. What do you drink?"
* Cody blinks, and looks embarrassed. "Sorry, Rhiana. Thank you... ^^ I'll take up your offer if I won't be in your way."
<Rahne> I don't mind being alone... I like the quiet... People wanted me to be their "friend"... but back home, to all the others my age, I was just a walking-talking puppy dog... It hurts to not be a person... :/
* Meira scritches her chin with her over sized kitty paws "Hmmm... usually what ever I get for free." =^^=
<Rhiana> ...not at all, it'll save me time to get my things together.
<Niki> Really? Then I'll get you some milk! That man is giving it away for free. :D
* Cody smiles at Rhiana, then turns to Rahne. "Well, they were wrong. You are a person!"
<Keylia> Looks like Chrys gave us the directions we needed too. Let's get settled, and go to the market when it's dark.
<Rhiana> Let's go before your pet and that girl get in trouble.
* Meira flails her arms. "Nyaaaoo!! You want to give me health problems?"
* Niki stops in her tracks as she overhears Keylia. "D...dark? Why dark?"
<Keylia> Because black markets are only open when it's dark. ^_^
* Rhiana sweatdrops, "Cody, get your friends and follow me...we'll do introductions or whatever when we get there."
* Rahne smiles and looks down, face still red. "I'm really sorry. ^^; I shouldn't be bogging you down with such troubles."
<Niki> ...do I get a light with me? Or maybe I can stay in a room and wait for you.
<Keylia> You scared the mean Shadow Zero's gonna getcha??
<Cody> ^^; I don't mind. You can talk to me anytime.
* Keylia makes a scary face to Niki.
* Meira blinks at Niki, poking her. "Don't like the dark?"
<Niki> NO! I'm not scared of him. I wanna chop him up!
<Keylia> Nah. You can stay at Rhiana's place. Just a little something I want to get done. :)
* Niki giggles she gets poked. "Hey, stop that."
* Rahne's eyes are still averted. "I dunno... I'm not sure I could. I'd feel really bad about it." ^^;
<Cody> ^^; I would too. I feel bad telling you all my problems. ^^:
<Keylia> Let's just go already.
* Rhiana turns to the way to her house, "I'm going home now...anyone who wants to follow is free to."
* Meira pokepokes still, curious look on her face. "The Dark is a person?"
<Niki> And the dark sucks!
<GMStoren> Rachel follows Rhiana quietly.
* Niki giggles again.
* Cody hmms. "Keylia...do you need help in this Black Market? I need to find proof on who poisoned Kippo. I'd like to come."
* Tori shrugs and falls in step behind Rachel.
* Rhiana looks back at Cody. "Didn't I tell you who poisoned your town?"
<Cody> Oh yes...but I need to find proof. You can't just call names without proof. ^^
<Niki> Hey, wait for me! I'm not going into the dark!
* Meira looks more confused, pokepoking still. "So it is a person? Aah! Don't leave me either!"
<Rhiana> ...you won't find any proof...Nakano is a professional. She covers her tracks.
<Keylia> Well, we'll find it... and I'll admit I'm kidna worried about Chrys too.
<Niki> No, this is the dark...
* Niki giggles then covers both of Meira's eyes with her hands.
* Cody suddenly looks crestfallen. "Then...how am I supposed to..."
<Rhiana> Supposed to what?
* Meira flails around, voice taking a joking tone. "Aaah! I can't see! You blinded me!"
<Cody> Find proof...
<Rhiana> I'd say you get it straight from the horses mouth.
* Niki removes her hands from Meria's eyes. "See, the dark sucks!"
* Cody follows Rhiana towards her house. "Yeah..."
<Rahne> We should do as His Majesty says, and talk to Miss Luka. Make sure everyone is safe, and then we can find the culprits.
<Keylia> Now that's the attitude I like. *follows*
<Cody> I just want everything to be resolved... :/
* Niki notices the rest of the party leaving her behind. "Hey, I said wait for me! Come on we have to hurry and catch up with them!"
<Rhiana> I have a feeling this will solve everything...for you...and for me.
* Meira giggles and follows Niki, and everyone else, adding herself to the group's roster. =^^=
<Rahne> Smile, Mr.Hylissa. Like Master Joch says, all in due time. Things'll turn out okay. ^^
* Niki does the same.
* Cody smiles. "Thanks Rahne...and call me Cody." ^^
* Rahne's tail sways happily as she follows the rest of the group.
* Niki looks at Meira. "Well you don't look like a lesbo or anything like that so I guess I can give you my name. I'm Niki. ^_^ But you still can't have my phone number."
* Meira gives another confused look, then giggles and glomps Niki just to get her back for the eye covering ."Are you suuuure?" =^^=
<GMStoren> The group sets off for Rhiana's house, now getting quite large... and eccentric! But everyone has goals that will all be realized sooner or later...- SESSION END -
Session Close: Mon Sep 11 00:20:34 2000