--- Session 34: Cold North --- Session Start: Sun Mar 25 16:18:16 2001 --SESSION START-- >> It's dark and cold as the group disembarks in Arctica City, much colder than Seim, and darker than when they left, having streaked east away from the setting sun. A chilly wind blows, whipping recently-fallen snow up in swirls of white. Electric lamps, a rarity outside of large cities, shine their cold light on the dark streets. * Shane pulls his woolen coat around him, having secured it from his lab in the short time they were in Adlehyde... By the makers... I'd nearly forgotten this chill... «ooc: Great maker. Where's my brivare? » * Ellena tries to pull her cloak tighter around her. ^^; >> A few guards clad in heavy coats that bulge with the armor beneath approach the group, carrying heavy pikes. "What is the meaning of this?" «ooc: As the guard says that, he points to the bulge in his pants. » Kestrel: Forgive the sudden arrival. We are here on a mission of utmost importance. I am Sir Lennus Kestrel, a Crown Investigator of Adlehyde. <> « OOC: We come... in... *peace*... » * Hikaru steps back and keeps quiet. «ooc: *** Shane is now known as William_Shatner » * Neydisa wraps a thick brown scarf over her neck as she approaches the guards, a litle wary already. « heh » « OOC: Shane dances around Hikaru, shouting "This man is a wanted crimmmmiiinnnall! Arrest him! Arrest him!" While pointing and giggling. » * Jeff reaches up to push his cloak's hood back away from his face a little bit, trusting Kestrel to deal with the formalities. >> The guards' outfits are quite different from Adlehyde's...whereas Adlehydian armor is very ceremonial, Arctican armor and weapons are clearly designed for functionality, and little else. * Shane stands by Kestrel, quietly. «ooc: * Hikaru runs Shane through, hence giving himself at least a LITTLE reason to be arrested » * Allen rubs his hands together and makes brr noises as he follows the rest of the group. «ooc: >> Hikaru gets a medal of honor for running Shane through. » «ooc: http://rpgcafe.net/WARPG/files/frontier_city.mid » « OOC: *Shane reveals himself to actually be a windrat, and is not harmed by corporeal weapons. He then runs off with Hikaru's leetle friend. » Guard: I see...what's your business here? «ooc: He ran off with Hikaru's ...uh. NO. » «ooc: Does this mean that Hik is technically female now? » Kestrel: We have come to make a request of the governor before heading east to the Institute. «ooc: Who knows? ;) » «ooc: You would, when you two sleep together. Well before you die. ;) » «ooc: Thanks ;) » .o( I sure hope we're welcomed here... ) «ooc: What makes you think they'll have sex BEFORE she dies? » «ooc: heh. » .oO(I sure hope they don't recognize me...) . o O ( Cold...I need to buy a nice warm coat while I'm here... ) << Hmm.. she's still warm, so technically she might NOT be dead.. >> « Bah.. bandwagon hoppers! » «ooc: I want on your wagon ;D » «ooc: Noo! She's dead...but DAMN she's sexy. UNF UNF. Hey! Leave some for me! UNF UNF! » Guard: I see. I will escort you to the governor's office, then. «ooc: Hehe <:D » « *^^* » « OOC: I am revealed. Shane's deep dark secret is that he's a necrophiliac. » « OOC: Duras Drum likes to watch. » <> * Allen folds his arms and shivers in his long sleeves. Apparently he didn't really think ahead and get some warm clothes. * Shane pulls kestrel aside, and starts talking low to him. >> Kestrel nods, turning his head to glance at Shane and the others. "This is a matter I can best take care of alone. Perhaps if you were to meet me in front of the office in an hour? It's at the center of town." « OOC: er.. » «ooc: Er, say that's before Shane's pose. » « OOC: belay that » «ooc: * Shane uses Evil Bass. » «ooc: OK, not at all. » Okay...We'll see you later then, Kestral.. * Hikaru doesn't seem that cold, despite circumstances and the fact that he's not wearing much more than anyone else is Kestrel: Wait a moment. Kestrel, wait... Sure.. * Hikaru nods Kestrel: *looks at Shane* Hmm? * Neydisa nods to Kestrel, relieved, as she pulls her rather thin coat around herself. "What is it Shane?" Sir Kestrel, should we not send some ahead to the Institute? I don't want to alert the Master if we ask for permission without having some defense in place... He was ahead of us in the Abbey too... and there we had the lead of having the permission granters in the same place as our goal... Kestrel: Perhaps you are correct. You, Neydisa, and one other should go there now, and Neydisa ought to come back after dropping you off. * Shane is whispering in a quiet tone, but the party can overhear... «ooc: That was relatively quiet too. » * Shane nods. * Shane looks around... * Allen looks up from his freezings. "I'll go." * Shane nods. Shall we, then? I know the way... Kestrel: First things first...before we split up...*pulls out a pouch* I was able to secure some funding in Adlehyde City. .oO{ All too well... } Ah, excellent... Alright.. >> Kestrel hands 3000 gella to each person. * Allen boggles. Thank you, Kestrel. Perhaps I can find some of the more mundane parts here, instead of needing to manufacture them... Thank you.. « OOC: Item list? :) » Kestrel: Don't spend it frivolously. I cannot requisition more funds this week. * Hikaru nods. «ooc: We're shoppig retroactively. » «ooc: shopping. » «ooc: Takes too long in-sess. » * Neydisa takes it, a little surprised, but quickly stows it away in the travelbag. "I don't plan to, Kestrel.. thank you very much." «ooc: I promise to go quickly.. :/ All I really need is a coat. :) » Kestrel: At any rate...(m) Neydisa, will you be all right bringing the Bird back here on your own? «ooc: Ditto for Ellena ;) She needs a nice warm coat. :D » «ooc: But I can do that out of session easily ;) » Kestrel... is it safe to leave the Bird unattended? Kestrel: The guards here will protect it effectively. * Neydisa looks around. "I can pilot it alright now, I think, but... landing in the snow makes me a little nervous." .oO(The guards here would confiscate it, that's what they'd do..) I'll manage. «ooc: .oO( Nah, it's property of Adlehyde. It'd start a war. Wait a minute. I'm not telepathic. ) » Good. You three should depart quickly. Kestrel: Good. You three should depart quickly. «ooc: Yes, Gayo! Yes! » « lol » * Shane nods, again. «ooc: Wow, Lucca just orgasmed over Gayo! » Shane, Allen, Neydisa.. good luck. What will the rest of you do till then? «ooc: Uh...*looks* Wow. It sure could be taken the wrong way, couldn't it? ;) » Jeff, Ellena...Hanzo. Do as you like. Just stay out of trouble. * Ellena nods quietly to Kestral. «ooc: Gayo is making a lot of apperances in today's session. ^_- » * Hikaru nods to Kestrel. * Jeff smiles. "Words to.. live by. Of course." «ooc: Adelsides! » «ooc: Hikaru...die ;D » «ooc: * Allen looks up. "What's that booming voice?" It's just the GM. Ignore it. » «ooc: Ghgogk » «ooc: You all suck. » * Shane re-enters the bird, giving one last look to the others. * Neydisa nods agreement, looking at Hikaru. "Be careful, alright?" * Shane frowns in the wind, and ducks in. «ooc: we love you, Gayo! » * Hikaru nods again. (m) I'll watch out over him, Neydisa... «ooc: watch over him, even ^^ » * Neydisa smiles at Ellena once. "You too. We'll be back soon.." She takes ehr leave to get the Bird ready. «ooc: Did Allen go in? » * Allen follows the other two back into the bird, glad to escape into the warmth. >> The Bird's entrance closes, and as the engines begin to spin, Kestrel walks off with the guard, the wind whipping through his short, dark hair. * Jeff looks around. "Well.. we have an hour or so.." >> Rayle speaks quietly from inside Hikaru's cloak. "Cheery." *** Hiro is now known as Hiro_Shower * Hikaru starts off, slowly walking to where he feels he needs to go. For answers and for closure. He mumbles quietly to Rayle. "Isn't it, though." ... I think I better keep an eye on him, just in case... «ooc: OK...I know where Hikaru's going, and Ellena's stalking him...is Jeff doing anything noteworthy? » «ooc: She's stalking him at a respectible distance away ;) You know...as to not alert susipcion too much? » * Jeff blinks. "Wait a sec.." Hm? * Jeff starts walking after Hikaru, trying to close the distance. "Hanzo.." * Hikaru looks behind him, speaking in a low tone. "Yes, Jeff?" «ooc: I keep seeing the name 'hanzo' and thinking of 'gonzo'. I suck » «ooc: *grabs some chickens and Miss Piggy's ass » « *honks ASh's nose* ^_- » «ooc: LOL » Are we near enough that you could point me to the.. resting place? ...The what? It's probably a longshot. But I have a letter to deliver, remember? « After all this time.. :) » ...Where do you think I was going, the circus? Isn't that.. risky? No more risky for me to go then for you to. *** Allen is now known as al[away] * Jeff nods. "..then I'll come with you." «ooc: egh. Be back shortly. » «ooc: S'OK » « K allen :) » * Ellena is standing quietly behind Jeff and Hikaru, not letting them know she can hear them...well...most of what they're saying. ..provided that's all right. ...Fine. Safety in numbers, after all. * Hikaru turns around and starts off again. ... * Jeff pauses for a moment, then pulls his hood back ove rhis head and follows >> Hikaru maneuvers through the quiet, snow-covered streets with familiarity, flakes of white swirling around him. *** al[away] is now known as Allen * Ellena keeps a respectful distance away, just keeping an eye on the two for now. «ooc: Is Ellena trying to be unseen? » «ooc: Yes » «ooc: *rolls* » «ooc: She knows Hik would just send her away anyway ;) » « OOC: btw, Elw-meat is a delicacy in Artica. » «ooc: Yay! » « How encouraging. ^^ » « OOC: That means everyone there wants to eat Ellena out! » « OOC: ... » «ooc: slip me your Elw meat, Ellena. Wait a sec. » «ooc: ...Take out Elw? » « OOC: riiight :) » « oh gosh ;) » <> «ooc: This is so bad. » « OOC: I go brush my teeth. » «ooc: Gayo has given up on us. I so ashamed. » «ooc: Rolling is hard. ;_; » «ooc: Anyhow, uh, right. » «ooc: Wow. Ellena must suck at keeping hidden ;) » <> «ooc: Well, she has lousy agi/dex and no stealth. » « heh. Who would EVER think THAT! ^^ » «ooc: I'm expecting to get caught and a big angst speech to occur! What wild fun! » « OOC: Angst makes everything better! » >> The two men pass through narrow streets bordered by black stone buildings, entering the less-populated outskirts of the city. Here the buildings are small, and many are crumbling...the area is in worse shape than Hikaru remembers. << ooc: Death to angst!>> *** Hiro_Shower is now known as Hiro * Hikaru blinks a bit. "Looks like this area has been all but abandoned since the incident..." >> The streets are virtually empty now...the occasional vagrant or panhandler unable to escape the cold lies in an alleyway. Rayle: (m) Just weren't th'same wit'out yer, prolly. It does look.. yeah . o O ( ...Rather empty...Ack! I almost tripped..! O_o If he notices me, he'll send me back for sure, knowing him... ) «ooc: so I'll just follow along and get killed anyway :D » «ooc: :D GO TEAM » « lol » * Jeff falls a step or two behind Hikaru as they walk * Hikaru walks along, looking around, seeing how his hometown has degraded into little more than slums since he left.. >> Finally Hikaru arrives at a small building that once might have been a dojo. The dojo sign lies, half-covered by snow, warped and peeling, on the ground, and the roof sags ominously in a spot or two. * Hikaru stops in front of the Thompson Fastdraw Dojo and sighs. "Back to where my life as I know it now started..." « Poor Chop Chop dojo... my alma mater.. » «ooc: http://rpgcafe.net/WARPG/files/walking_in_dream.mid » * Hikaru wipes some snow off the sign and looks at it, trying to remember what it was like years ago.. >> Rayle remains silent. «ooc: Tompson Fastdraw dojo? Sounds like a fast food joint. NINJA BURGER! » >> The sign has peeled somewhat, but the words are still visible..." «ooc: * passes Ellena an Everyburger. » «ooc: lol, shaddup ;) I can remove the Fast Draw part ;) » * Jeff looks at the building, not speaking as Hikaru wanders down memory lane. «ooc: Mmm...everyburger. » >> The sign has peeled somewhat, but the words are still visible..."Thompson Old Fox Dojo...Fast Draw Technique" * Hikaru lifts his head and looks at the dojo again, not speaking for a few minutes. ...Come on, Jeff. «ooc: Jeff checks his watch, then pokes Hikaru a couple times. "Dude? it's been a few minutes". » * Hikaru steps forward, opening the door quietly. * Jeff nods. "Right." * Ellena wanders close enough so can somewhat hear what's going on inside, if at all possible. ^^; * Ellena also keeps herself hidden, just in case. * Hikaru looks around, getting this odd feeling he's being watched. >> As he steps inside, he is greeted by the eye-watering smell of burning garbage. A few men in shabby clothes sit huddled around a rusty drum full of flaming trash. * Jeff waits until Hikaru has entered before glancing back towards where Ellena is hiding, then follows Hikaru in. « woah... ghotto » « er ghetto rather ^^ » * Hikaru shrugs and then looks back inside at the homeless men. Vagrant: Hey, man...you looking to share the heat? * Hikaru blinks a bit. "No, not really. Listen...I heard this place was...how to put this...haunted...? Tell me, do you know if it's true...?" .oO(This is NOT what I expected...) * Jeff folds his hands inside his sleeves, and bows his head. Vagrant 2: Heh...came here looking for ghosts, eh? Damn if I know...there's a lotta ghosts in these parts now...don't much care who I gotta share with if there's a place to get outta the cold... ...How would I go about finding them...? «ooc: Agh, just a sec. » «ooc: The words are popping up over their heads like comic book captions. This has become Vagrant Story. » « How ironic.. i was just picturing that ^^ » *** Bahamut (bahamut@brndas11-p62.mts.net) has joined #warpg «ooc: Baha :d » «ooc: er :D » Vagrant 2: Heh. You want ta find ghosts? << Heyas. :) >> One in particular, yes. Vagrant 2: Good luck. Heh! I guess you could wander around and hope you find one... « OOC: Hanpan can help! » «ooc: ...hanpan? » « OOC: 'Rayle' ;)\ » << ooc: Must.. summon.. Stare Roe.. and.. Ge Ramtos.. :o >> «ooc: Actually, Stare Roe won't generally show ghosts. » ...I guess you're right. Anyways, thanks for the help. << ooc: Oh. Must.. summon.. Solus Emsu.. ;) >> « Then Jeff will get an owie probably. ^^ » Vagrant: No problem, man. <> * Hikaru reaches into his pocket, pulling out 50 gella. "Get yourselves a nice room in an inn or something...burning trash is no way to keep warm here... I should know.." «ooc: Hmm. YOU COULD ASK ELLENA. *cough* » «ooc: If they knew she was following them. :P » «ooc: Jeff knows ;) » «ooc: Oh? » Hikaru suspects, but he doesn't know as of yet. «ooc: Well...I THOUGHT he did. » «ooc: THAT WAS OOC » Vagrant: Damn, thanks, man! *stands up* Let's get out of here! << ooc: He doesn't know she can sense stuff, though! Not really. So if he did know.. ;) >> >> The vagrants leave. * Hikaru smiles and looks around, idly trying to put out the flames in the trash can, trying to see if Sir Thompson's ghost would still inhabit the place, despite all odds. * Jeff smiles, pushing his hood back again. "That was kind of you. Maybe.." * Jeff closes his eyes and clenches his fists, charging. ...Don't look into it too much... * Hikaru blinks. "Jeff...?" Rayle: (m) Wot's goin' on? I can't see? I'm going to see if maybe we can get a little direction.. with your permission? >> Rayle sticks his head out of Hikaru's coat. "Wotcha doin'?" ...Go ahead. Don't draw too much attention to us, though. I'll try to be subtle.. * Hikaru looks down at Rayle. "Looking for someone." >> Rayle: 'Zat so. *head back in* «ooc: Er, no >> » * Hikaru nods and tries to put out the fire to help ease away the "burning trash smell" some while Jeff does his shamanly things. « OOC: Maybe it was Elijah! ;D » * Jeff pulls a stone slab out and touches it. "Ge Ramtos, I hate to bother you again so soon, but could you please give us a hand finding the departed Sir Thompson?" >> It's a bit of work, but Hikaru manages to douse the flames with some snow that's fallen through a crack in the roof. «ooc: Hikaru gets 500 event EXP! » * Hikaru idly looks through the now-extinguished trash idly, bored and waiting. «ooc: -second idly. » >> A brief coldness washes across Jeff and Hikaru, like an icy hand dragging across their faces, and then...nothing more. * Hikaru stops and waits. "Well...?" * Jeff slumps a little. « OOC: Arctica is *not* a brief coldness ;) » «ooc: I think he means a brief colder-than-usualness. » Jeff? Did it work...? «ooc: This is like, REALLY cold just briefly. » «ooc: Jeff: No! SHe stole my MP and ran! Jerk. » « OOC: they went BETWEEN » * Jeff reaches up and pulls his hood over his head again. "Something happened, but I don't know what.." «ooc: Watch as Ellena is dead outside. You fuckup ;) » * Hikaru sighs. "If you're here, say something, teacher..." >> A cold breeze flows through the room from the open door, whisking snow past them and into the room behind... « OOC: Thompson> I have nothing to say to the muthafuka that offed me, biznatch! » * Jeff folds his hands under his sleeves again, turning to look another way. * Hikaru blinks. "Stay here, Jeff..." * Hikaru quietly walks into the other room, blind faith telling him that this might be a sign. >> The training room is bare as ever, but the weapons from the wall are gone, and the patterns on the floor are faded. A faint, dark stain covers the floor in the place where Thompson was killed, and a nodachi is embedded into the floor at the center of the stain. « OOC: the words "Shane Arturis killed me..." are painted on the wall in glowing ectoplasm. » «ooc: I was thinking more along the lines of "HA HA YOU SUCK". » « No, it was miss Scarlet, secretly a ninja spy! » * Hikaru walks in, quietly walking to the sword... >> The sword sits silently at the spot where Thompson perished, all those years ago...its silvery blade reflects the drifting snow. «ooc: The ghost of Coldbird appears! Haha. No, just kidding. » « OOC: It's Guy's sword! » «ooc: Stealing Guy's sword is fun. » « OOC: it's not very good for long... » «ooc: *sniff* He was a great man...let's rob his grave! » «ooc: Hold on. » «ooc: Hehe. » «ooc: -Hikaru- * Storen admits his hands get tired after games. But he is happy. ^_^ » « ack ^^ » «ooc: I should do a Storen prf sometime. » «ooc: *switches to his Ashton prf* » * Hikaru kneels down by it, examining it closely. "Sir Thompson, I guess this is the closest thing you have to a grave marker...Everything you said to me and did to me was always a lesson in one way or another...especially this. It taught me that no matter how good of a swordsman you are, you'll still die one day...but it also taught me that, no matter who dies, life goes on for everyone else..." «ooc: Should I continue? » «ooc: Go ahead. » >> Hikaru brushes his hand against the wound-leather hilt of the blade...it's warm to the touch, and hums softly. * Hikaru blinks. "The sword... it's... resonating? ...is that what it's doing...?" Rayle: ...(vq) wossis...? «ooc: Wow. Memories of SFRPG1! Soon a ninja chick will wnat sex from you! » «ooc: Katia? » «ooc: GHEK » «ooc: ^^ Not quite. » «ooc: I'm not posing anything else just yet, BTW. ^_~ » «ooc: I know. » «ooc: Ah, okie. » «ooc: Ameshit resonates! » «ooc: It'll be a little while longer for the non-Hikaru people...this is Hik's Oscar clip. » * Hikaru reaches out and quietly grasps the handle of the blade, slowly extracting the sword to examine it, not pondering the consequences of doing so... >> Hikaru draws the sword. For a moment it hums in his hand, and then it disappears. He faints cold. * Hikaru passes out after grasping the vibrating sword. «ooc: That was wrong. » Rayle: Whoa! Ow! 'Ik! «ooc: jeff do anything? » * Ellena feels the energy from outside, but isn't sure what's going on entirely. «ooc: Evidently he doesn't. » «ooc: Jeff may be away ;) » >> Rayle scrambles out of the coat, looking at Hikaru in puzzlement. "Aw, bleedin' 'ell, I didn't expect this...." >> A blast of wind washes snow over the room.... --pause for description-- « Fresh blood flows into Hikaru's eyes, as he begins to hear the tortured screams of the dam.. wait wrong game. ;) » «ooc: Wha...? O_o » <> « Diablo, ninny. ^^ » «ooc: Pose one thing now, I'll juxtapose. » * Jeff looks into the room as he hears Hikaru thud to the ground. "What.. oh no.." >> A blast of wind washes snow over the room.... >> A blast of wind blows the snow across the streets of residential Arctica City...only two people wander the streets on this chilly day, neither wearing heavy coats...a young boy whose exuberance is apparent, and an unfathomably old man, wizened and wispy. «ooc: http://rpgcafe.net/WARPG/files/innocence.mid » « OOC: Oooh. Flashbacky! » « Yay ^_^ » « OOC: Hikaru... is Rudy? :o » «ooc: Okay, no more desc. » * Hikaru walks along at a brisk pace, occasionally stopping and waiting for Sir Thompson, who's taking his own sweet time, to catch up. "So...come on, Mister Aaron sir! Why are we out here when we could be training?" «ooc: Change Aaron to Thompson if I'm not supposed to know his first name. I forget if I am at this age or not ^^;; » «ooc: Master Thompson is more correct anyhow. ^^ » «ooc: But you do know is first name. » «ooc: Feel free to change it » >> Aaron looks at Hikaru with joyful eyes hidden beneath a heavily lined brow, and winks. "Life isn't all about training, Hikaru. There aren't many people out on a day like this...look at all they're missing, eh?" >> He gestures to the gusting snow with one hand. They're missing a lot of snow, Master Thompson... won't they be able to see it another day later on, though, sir...? « OOC: Did Shrike kill Thompson? :) » Aaron: But this day will never come again, and these flakes will never be exactly the way they are now. It's easy to stay indoors all the time in Arctica and only come out to chop wood, but then how can you really appreciate the snow? «ooc: It's an unclear fact. He's presumed to. » * Hikaru slows down a tad. "Well, then why do people always live inside...? Is it because it's safer?" Aaron: Most people can't deal with the cold all the time. I'm used to it by now, but I can see you shivering a bit. *he grins* It's wise to know your limits, but you also need to press at them if you ever want to improve. We could stay indoors and become master swordsmen a little faster, but then what would happen when it was cold? * Hikaru nods. "We'd become giant ice cubes, right?" Aaron: Right you are! And there's no use in a warrior who can't deal with a little bad weather, eh? Do you know how old I am, Hikaru? * Hikaru blinks. "Um, four hundred somethin'..." « OOC: lil'Hik> older than the hills and the moons and the dirt! Like, thirty, right? » «ooc: lol, I'm not THAT innocent ;) » >> He laughs. "Not quite...I'm one hundred and eleven. Never met a man as old as me. My body's not as strong as it once was, but I don't give it a chance to rest, and that's how I keep my ticker going." So you just keep on moving so you don't stop moving...? That makes sense...I guess...kinda sorta. Aaron: That's right! Did I ever tell you about the time I met the famour Jack Van Burace? * Hikaru wideeyes. "You met him?" « OOC: He's who I got the nifty rat from! » Aaron: Yep! See, it was way back when I was a little sprite, and he needed some help with something, so we made a deal... >> They walk down the street, talking, as the snow swirls around them. --pause for description-- >> A young boy and an old man, both clothed in ceremonial bushi gear, fight with bokken in a dojo training room. The movements are fast, but it's clear that the old man is the more skilled of the two. Aaron: Come on now, give it all you've got! * Hikaru leaps back, trying to figure out a weakspot as usual, feinting and then charging forward, trying to score a hit on the old man! >> He parries skilfully, just a little too quick, not attacking too much, but putting up an expert defense. "What's the most important thing about Fast Draw?" * Hikaru slides back a bit. "To have the perfect mix of speed, defense, and aggression, sir! So that you can get hit and still protect yourself and others! Aaron: Good lad! *swings and misses, leaving a brief opening* * Hikaru takes the opportunity, trying to go through the small window that his master has left for him. «ooc: Not a real window, obviously ;P » «ooc: brb » *** Scott (bmscott@DIALUP-159-141.TNMEM2.USIT.NET) has joined #WARPG << ooc: Hikaru gets stuck, 'cause he's gotten pudgy and the window is small! :D >> « hehe » >> He scores a clean hit on the shoulder, but Aaron ducks down and forward at the same moment, swinging the sword at his neck, stopping just close enough to avoid bruising. "Got you!" He coughs and stands up, rubbing his shoulder tenderly. "Ngh. You see, Hikaru, sometimes it's best to take a loss to win, and sometimes it's best to wait and let the opponent strike first." ...Y...yeah. * Hikaru sweatdrops a bit. "But what if the opponent knows you too well and does the same thing?" >> He pats him on the shoulder. "Swordsmanship's a game of wits as well as weapons. That's for the advanced lessons, which I do believe you're about ready for." * Hikaru smiles. "Really? You think I am?" Aaron: No time like the present! Just let me, uh, put some ice on this shoulder. Heh, sorry about that, sir! ^^; You need my help with it? --pause for description-- >> A blizzard rages outside rattling the frame of the house with each gust, but inside it's dark and quiet. A teenaged boy sits alone on the floor, reading a letter, while Aaron stands silently in the shadows behind him. *** Scott is now known as Scott-Town * Hikaru sits, reading, tears slowly filling his eyes. "No...that's not right..." Aaron: ... >> The withered master bows his head. How...? How could they have...? Aaron: ...I guess it is what I was worried about... ...It's because I wasn't there for them, wasn't it? I was more worried about getting better at this...I wasn't there to protect them... isn't that what happened? >> Aaron slowly walks out into the room, sitting crosslegged beside Hikaru without looking at him. "Don't blame yourself, Hikaru. Sometimes things don't happen for a reason...sometimes they just happen." ...But... but why do they happen? Why do they have to happen?! Why did they have to die?! >> He bows his head. "If I knew that, I'd be a wiser man than I am, I'm afraid. Why am I here and not them? Why do some people die young and others die old? Why does anyone have to die at all? The world is a sad place because we don't have those answers..." «ooc: Because if they ddin't you wouldn't be the angst master you are today! » « OOC: Augment Angst! » ...But... I thought you were supposed to know all the answers, sir... you always did before... «ooc: Hikaru is diullisioned. He now doesn't believe in aaron, the tooth fairy...santa... » «ooc: Hey! ;P » «ooc: ^_^ Sorry. I shh now. » «ooc: Just for that... it's "disillusioned". ;P Adelsides » «ooc: Thanks! ;) » Aaron: That would be nice, wouldn't it? I know a lot of things, Hikaru, but...there are some things no man can know. Some things that are just part of the way we are. They say "life goes on". That's an awful cruel way of putting it, but...it's not entirely untrue. For whatever reason, everyone dies, and not everyone dies at the same time...it doesn't make any sense, but...we have to keep on living, you know? For them. ...Yeah...but how can we...? People only have enough life for themselves... If we live for them, how can we live as long...? «ooc: Hikaru's particularly dense today. » >> He looks up at the ceiling, blinking a few times. "I think you'll find that's more than enough for everyone who loves you. Just remember, Hikaru...it's okay to cry and be sad. You have to be happy again eventually, but...for now, it's okay to be sad. There are some people who try to keep all those feelings inside, and it's just bad in the end..." * Hikaru smiles a bit, letting the tears flow. "Thank you, sir... you're right, I guess... But...it still hurts..." >> Aaron Thompson puts an arm around his student's shoulders, and sighs. "...yeah. It does." --pause for description-- « Hikaru, this is your life... ^^ » «ooc: Apparently. » >> Hikaru stands in the doorway of the training room, clutching the bag of groceries. Aaron lies on the floor off to one corner in a pool of blood, clutching weakly at Hikaru's sword in his chest. * Hikaru stands there in shock briefly before dropping the groceries and rushing over. "Sir Thompson! What happened?!" «ooc: What a lovely domestic scene. ;) » Aaron: Tha...you...Ikru? Ca't...see much... « OOC: Hik, you smashed the eggs! :o » ....Yeah... it's me... what happened...? You're bleeding to death... «ooc: Aaron: Someone shoved a sword into my chest, you dumb git! » << "What happen?" "Someone set up us the murder!" ...sorry. ;) >> «ooc: Can I kick him please? ;) » Aaron: I...I been...live....on...borrowed time...Ikru...issal...all my faul'... ...It's not your fault...! Who...who did this to you?! * Hikaru tries to help the man without injuring him further Aaron: Was...Des...was...gack...gaga....cor'....*his body shakes as he coughs spasmodically, hacking up blood* Sir... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to...don't talk...it'll just reopen the wounds! Aaron: ... >> Suddenly, the entrance to the house is kicked in, and the sound of many footsteps approaches. "Halt! This is the Fenril Guard!" --pause for description-- >> Hikaru, an adult after all these years, stands in the training room, dark as pitch. A light snaps on, revealing Aaron standing a short distance away from him, all but his face lit. ...Sir...Thompson...? Is that you...? Aaron: It's...been a long time, Hikaru. I'm sorry we had to meet again under these circumstances... ...No...don't be. It's better we meet like this than not at all... Aaron: ...I suppose you're right. Hikaru...you've become a strong man. I can tell you're very confused by your life, but...I want you to know, I'm proud of you. And your parents are proud of you too. * Hikaru smiles, tears starting to come to his eyes. "Thank you, sir...but...now I have questions of you that I can't find answers to, otherwise..." Aaron: *nods* I know...I do not have time to explain all of these things to you, but...I will explain a little. You know I was a member of a group called the War Kings...the Old Fox, they called me. «ooc: Mista Volpone. » * Hikaru nods. "The War Kings...yeah...who's this Achilles guy, though? Is he one of you guys, too?" >> He chuckles very softly, a half-dead sound. "Yes...Achilles, Metramand, Darien and myself. We had good times, the four of us...we wandered the world in search of adventure...until one day we found a secret that threatened to kill us all." «ooc: Isn't it always that way? ;) Damn secrets. » A secret that...what secret is that dangerous...? Aaron: It's too complicated to go into here...but you have the key to it...the key to the Messiah Papers. They explain the secret we found...the secret we feared for our lives too much to reveal. Our shame, I suppose, until finally one of us decided to break the silence...and that's what started all this. *** Katt (.@a24b94n73client240.hawaii.rr.com) has joined #warpg All of this...you mean everything that's happening now? Aaron: I'm not sure about some of the things that are happening now...but...I know you wouldn't be involved in this terrible mess if we had not kept the secret we found to begin with...the secret of Arctica and GaiaCo. «ooc: Hmmm.... » Arctica and...GaiaCo? So...GaiaCo is the ones that did this to you, to hide the information...? Is that it...? Aaron: Yes. GaiaCo...and Darien. «ooc: Fuck Tuxedo mask. fuck him to hell! » >> He chuckles quietly again and shakes his head. "The Kid, he was. I knew he was a little off, but...I never thought he was a bad seed." Darien...? You mentioned him...he was one of the War Kings... what happened? Is he related to the Desmond that Archilles mentioned...? Aaron: I was the old War King...Darien was the young one...younger than you now, even...maybe it's because he was young that he was so determined not to risk his life...Darien Desmond. That's him. He chose to work with GaiaCo when we found their secret...maybe out of fear, maybe something else. I'm not sure. When Metramand decided to release the secret of the Papers...he came back to kill us. ...Did he have another name he went by...? Aaron: He calls himself Shrike now., « Dadadum » « OOC: Audience: (gasp) » * Hikaru clenches his fist. "Called. Darien is out of commission for a while, if not permanently." ...I hope. « OOC: Metramand is a cool-ass name, by the way » Aaron: *nods slightly* I know...you're more skilled than I ever thought you could be. But...there are stronger opponents than him in your future, Hikaru. Opponents that even one with your current skill can't defeat. *** Hiro (None@63.91.243.168) Quit (Killed (NickServ (GHOST command used by Monique))) ...So what do I do? Training only works so well... you're making it sound like, with this, I need to get stronger faster than that... <> Aaron: There is a final technique I can teach you, Hikaru. The gateway to the mastery of Fast Draw. I told you that I lived a long life because I never let my body rest...well...that's half true. I never showed you, Hikaru, but when I was your age, I learned a technique from an old book and my own studies, a technique that allowed me to strike at the souls of enemies. ...Strike at...Is that why everyone I run into refers to you as the "Soul Eater"...? « OOC: Mmm... Souls... » Aaron: *nods* The soul is the weakest point in the body. This is what Jack Van Burace came to learn from me. And one of the techniques I learned allowed me to strengthen my own soul by defeating my enemies...I never expected it at the time, but...somehow it allowed me to live longer than I ever thought a man could. ...So that's what you meant..by "borrowed time"... Aaron: *another nod* This is a dangerous technique, Hikaru. Not to be used lightly. I can teach you...but I need to know that you're ready to learn such a thing. ...How do I prove myself...? *** Scott-Town is now known as Scott >> He lifts his hands to the wall and slips two swords out of their holding place with a steely rasp, tossing one to him. "You're my best student, Hikaru, and if you can stay strong in the face of adversity, you could become as strong as Jack Van Burace himself...give an old man a chance to teach one final lesson." «ooc: Sorry this is so Hikaru-ish, btw...I may run a bit long since no SoM. ^^ » « OOC: Thats fine by me. » « No, Hik needs dev time :) » « besides, yeah, go as long as you wish.. » <> «ooc: Danke. ^^ » ...I'd gladly give you the chance, sir.. * Hikaru grabs the sword. « Just recall I may need to leave at 9 ish somewhere ^^ » «ooc: That's 2 hours, btw » >> The weapons mounted along the wall flare to light, revealing his face, wrinkled as ever, but still with a spark of vitality. «ooc: S'OK. » Aaron: Then show me all you've learned. «ooc: http://rpgcafe.net/WARPG/files/hikaru.mid » --Boss Combat!-- «ooc: ...This gives me the odd sense of an Utena duel. O_o » Enemy Front: Aaron Thompson « OOC: If Aaron wins, he comes back to life! » << ooc: Sweet! Lose, Hik! Lose! :D >> «ooc: O_O In Hikaru's body? AGHUH IT'S CHRYS AGAIN ;) » «ooc: Ellena gets it on with an old, wrinkled guy » «ooc: You can just tell me actions in-chan since it's just you, BTW. » « plays Utena - Kessen » «ooc: heh. Does anyone besides Allen actually listen to the midis? ^_~ » «ooc: I do sometimes. :) » I do, too Aaron preempts! « I do. :) » «ooc: ...I HAVE BAD LUCK WITH THAT » Aaron uses Hypercharge! « OOC: I am too. » « OOC: but my midiplayer is making them raspy. » >> Aaron holds his sword out in a fast draw manner, channeling energy into it until he and the blade blur together in a burst of speed... "Choudenka!" Aaron's Agi+2L! Hikaru uses Hypercharge! Agi+2L! «ooc: Er, that was round 1. » * Hikaru holds his sword out in a fast draw manner, channeling energy into it until he and the blade blur together in a burst of speed... "Choudenka!" Round 2! * Hikaru grins. "I see I'm starting to take on my master's habits for a battle..." Aaron charges! >> Aaron holds his sword out, gathering energy into the blade... Force+1! Hikaru charges! * Hikaru repeats the motion... Round 3! Both gain 1 force. >> Aaron holds out his sword in the typical Fast Draw manner, channeling energy into it until it glows black... Aaron: Power of the heavens... Ikioi no hadou! >> Aaron uses Strength Flash! Str+2L this round! Hikaru defends! * Hikaru defends. «ooc: Heh. » >> Aaron uses War King Blade! Aaron: Spirit of the War Kings, come to my blade! Bushi-O no Ken! >> Aaron holds out his sword in a typical Fast Draw manner, channels energy into his blade, twirls it once, twice, and charges forward, running Hikaru through with the now powerfully charged sword! «ooc: Uh, one sec./ » Hikaru takes 176 damage! Gains 1 force! « Ouch. ^^ » Round 4! «ooc: Good he defended. ^^ » « OOC: Jesus. And Hik's a tank! » Hikaru is Condition Green, too! « heck yeah.. » <> >> Hikaru uses Strength Flash! Str+2L this round! Aaron charges! Force+1! Hikaru uses Fenrir Blade! * Hikaru wipes some blood off the side of his mouth. "Sometimes it's best to take a loss to win, and sometimes it's best to wait and let the opponent strike first... That was one of the first things you taught me..." * Hikaru holds out his sword in ye olde typical Fast Draw manner, channeling energy into it until it glows black... Power of the heavens... Ikioi no hadou! Doom of the Fenril Knights, let your power become mine! Heijin no garou!! * Hikaru holds out his sword in a typical Fast Draw manner, channels energy into his blade, twirls it once, twice, and charges forward, running his teacher through with the now powerfully charged sword! 243 damage! >> Aaron stumbles back a few steps before regaining his stance. "You've adapted very well to the technique...let's see how well..." Round 5! Aaron charges! Force+1! >> Aaron holds his sword out, gathering energy into the blade... Hikaru uses a Potion Berry! HP fully restored! Round 6! Both gain 1 force! * Hikaru pulls out a Potion Berry, knowing the next attack is going to hurt, no matter what it is... Aaron defends! Hikaru defends! Both combatants watch each other carefully... Round 7! Aaron evades! Hikaru defends! >> Aaron dodges about carefully, looking for an opening... Round 8! Aaron defends! Hikaru defends! Round 9! Force+1 to each! Aaron is Condition Green! * Hikaru pulls his sword into a completely defensive posture, feinting here and there to try to lure his old teacher into a sense of false security... Hikaru defends! « as they circle like wolves.. :o » Aaron uses Strength Flash! holds out his sword in the typical Fast Draw manner, channeling energy into it until it glows black... Aaron: Power of the heavens... Ikioi no hadou! Aaron: ...this is the technique I never use...this is the forbidden art... >> Aaron lifts his sword into the air and it turns into a mist. He shouts a piercing kiai and rushes forward, slashing with strikes that pass right through Hikaru's body. Aaron uses Soul Eater@! * Hikaru tries his best to parry the blows, letting a few through unavoidably. « Kireek: Your soul, it is stronegr. It is delicious... let me consume you utterly in battle... » *** Scott is now known as LeBeau « OOC: (some comment about devouring and Mother here.) » «ooc: Oh my sweet Zeik... *munch munch slush crunch* » « actually that's a PSO ref.. ^^; » «ooc: lol » Miss! 61! 66! (127) Aaron regains 127 HP! « OOC: Those munching sounds were perhaps one of the most disturbing moments I've ever had playing a console. » « OOC: I loved it! :D » «ooc: Hehe. Yeah, that part disturbs me too ^^ » * Hikaru winces. "It's effective. I can see that, already.." « Kireek: I liVe tO FIght, to ConSumE. So, yoU HiKArU aRE my LIfe NoW! » Round 10! «ooc: wtf » Hikaru uses Strength Flash! * Hikaru holds out his sword in ye olde typical Fast Draw manner, channeling energy into it until it glows black... Aaron attacks! Power of the heavens... Ikioi no hadou! >> Aaron leaps forward, slashing with two strikes too rapid for the eye to see! Miss! 59! (59) * Hikaru parries one and lets the other tag him in the side. Hikaru uses Fenrir Blade! Once again, you attack first... 265 damage! * Hikaru brings up his now charged sword in an sword uppercut counterattack! « OOC: has anyone ever counterattacked? » «ooc: I don't think so, even though I have 2 levels in it ;) » «ooc: Occasionally. ney, Jeff and Katia are the only ones with decent Counter. » «ooc: And Ney is always in the back. » « Ney and Chartreuse fight was all coutnering really. » <> «ooc: it does happen, but not much. He missed by 28, needs to miss by 36 for Hik to counter. » >> Aaron sails across the room, landing on his back without dropping his sword. He flips to his feet without using his hands, grabbing the weapon again and wiping blood away from his cheek. "Excellent..." I was taught by the best, I better be good. « OOC: Hikaru: And you fight pretty well for a dead man... » « So does Jef.. ;) » «ooc: I was thinking that, actually » Round 11! Aaron charges! Force+1! Hikaru uses a Potion Berry! HP refilled! * Hikaru takes the opportunity to heal himself. Round 12! Both gain 1 force! Hikaru uses Flash Rush! * Hikaru holds his blade out and channels energy into it in a typical Fast draw manner, glares at his opposition, and cries out "Issen sattou!" He immediately springs into action and slashes at ! «ooc: ... » * Hikaru holds his blade out and channels energy into it in a typical Fast draw manner, glares at his opposition, and cries out "Issen sattou!" He immediately springs into action and slashes at Aaron! Miss! 48! (48) >> Aaron gathers his chi, preparing for a strike. Aaron uses Soul Power! Augments are -6 MP this turn. >> Aaron holds his sword out in a typical Fast Draw manner, and begins to gather energy. Winds swirl into the blade as it sizzles with power. "Divine wind...Kamikaze!" He rushes forwafrd in a blur, slashing everywhere at once. Aaron uses Frenzy Blade! «ooc: Divine wind...divine wind? » «ooc: Whoa. Bad dodging. » 65! 65! 56! 57! (243) Hikaru gains 1 force! « Ow damn. » * Hikaru gets knocked back and coughs up a gout of blood. "Heh...It should have been expected that you still have a few more tricks up your sleeve right now than I do..." «ooc: Hikaru gets that at Mind 40. :D » «ooc: Augh! 6 away! ;) » *** Windstar (Windstar@cs2716-211.austin.rr.com) has joined #warpg «ooc: wah. Must go soon :( » «ooc: Normal attack with +2 strikes, 12 MP. » «ooc: Wanna see Hik beat Aaron up! :D » «ooc: Won't be much longer. » Round 13! Aaron charges! Force+2! Hikaru uses Strength Flash before that! Hikaru uses Fenrir Blade! * Hikaru holds out his sword in ye olde typical Fast Draw manner, channeling energy into it until it glows black... Power of the heavens... Ikioi no hadou! «ooc: BRB » << ooc: Time stops. Again. ;) >> I stake it all on this single blow...Heijin no garou!! * Hikaru holds out his sword in a typical Fast Draw manner, channels energy into his blade, twirls it once, twice, and charges forward, running $1- through with the now powerfully charged sword! «ooc: ...... » * Hikaru holds out his sword in a typical Fast Draw manner, channels energy into his blade, twirls it once, twice, and charges forward, running Aaron through with the now powerfully charged sword! << ooc: Damn you $1-. Damn your black heart. ;) >> 279 damage! KO'd! >> Aaron falls to one knee, breathing heavily and bleeding in a few places. "I yield...you are worthy of my technique." Victory! Gained 200 EXP, 0 Gella. Found Secret Sign! « OOC: you made a ghost bleed! » >> He pushes himself to his feet. "Hikaru..." ...Sir Thompson... * Hikaru puts down the sword and helps his old teacher up. «ooc: Aaron: You punctured my spleen. I am dissapointed in you. Hikaru: :| » « heh » >> He smiles softly, a genuine smile, and places a hand on Hikaru's shoulder. "I must go now...I've stayed in this world long enough...I can rest now that I know you will be all right, and now that I've told you about Darien..." ...Yes, sir. But what will become of the title that you used to hold...? Aaron: You are the Soul Eater now, Hikaru. It is not a bad title, but rather one which requires great responsibility. I believe that you can handle it. I have taught you all I can. ...Thank you, Sir Thompson... I will carry on your name as best I can... Aaron: The best you can do is all anyone can ever ask of you...stay true to yourself...you will be a master one day...it's time for you to be your own man, and to help others, as I once did... * Hikaru nods. "I swear by both your departed soul and the name of the Fujimaya family that I will uphold your promise." *** Katt (.@a24b94n73client240.hawaii.rr.com) Quit (Connection reset by peer) Aaron: one thing I discovered in my studies...you always carry with you a piece of everyone you've ever cared about...none of us are really gone...we're just...somewhere else. Remember the dead...your ancestors are proud of you. >> The room fades to black. --pause for description-- « hmm.. my tiem runs short soon ^^ » «ooc: Got 20 minutes ^^ » «ooc: Sorry, ney. I can do the rest without you if needed. ^^; » « We'll see, we'll see. :) » >> Hikaru's "Soul Eater" force has been enabled! >> Hikaru wakes up with a gasping cough, his head cradled under one of Jeff's arms. Ellena kneels beside him, clearly worried. * Ellena looks up suddenly, shocked, "(m) 'Karu...?" * Hikaru coughs a bit, sitting straight up. * Hikaru coughs. "...Uh...? 'Lena...?" * Ellena smiles softly and reaches out to hug him, "You worried me...I'm so glad you're okay..." *** Katt (.@a24b94n73client240.hawaii.rr.com) has joined #warpg Hikaru.. what happened? * Hikaru blinks and patpats Ellena too. "I'm glad you're okay, too..." *** Windstar (Windstar@cs2716-211.austin.rr.com) Quit (Quit: Ugh... I can't do this. Well at least I wasn't in this session today, I've been having a terrible splitting ear ache since last night and I've been throwing up all day today, see you around guys and have fun) * Hikaru looks at Jeff. "I spoke with him..." «ooc: Huh, sounds like WS ain't real well-off either. » «ooc: I don't think I CAN have fun, having read that. » «ooc: ^^; » « OOC: blerg? » «ooc: What Ellena said » «ooc: I'm cutting away from Hik/Jeff/Ellena soon, so save the big explaining and stuff for lude. ^^_ » «ooc: Oh no! You're inviting us to lude! ;) » * Jeff nods. "You're all right?" «ooc: /me can play? WHEEE! » «ooc: Soon, zath. ^_~ » <> Yes, are you okay? You're not hurt or anything, are you? ...I'm fine. Thank the Guardians... «ooc: * Allen walks in. Oh, Hi Hikaru. I mean Hanzo. Oops. » * Hikaru stands up, dusting himself off, and picking up the sword that he recently pulled out of its' spot. >> Hikaru gets War King Sword! Jeff, where's the letter...? Rayle: Damn, 'Ik, ya sure yer okay...? * Jeff stands as well. "It's in my pack." * Hikaru replaces the War King Sword with his Claymore, placing the latter in the spot the other sword was previously, to remain vigil over Aaron Thompson's grave. "I'd like it, please." * Ellena still looks a touch worried. * Jeff pulls it out. "I'm to give this to the eater of souls. If you've talked to.. then.." * Jeff holds it out to Hikaru. "Then here you are. I hope this clears something up.." * Ellena 's look of worry turns to slight confustion. ^^; Rayle: ...guess it's th'best ya can do... * Hikaru nods and places the letter in his backpack. "Go on, guys...I'll catch up with you." All right. We need to meet Kestrel soon.. I'll see you then. ...Okay...Just be careful... Promise? * Hikaru nods. "I'll be fine. I promise." * Ellena smiles back softly, "Okay...see you in a bit..." * Jeff pulls his hood back up, and walks out the door. * Ellena follows Jeff out of the dojo. «ooc: Okay, I go now. O-o » « ;_; » Bye! «ooc: .fewnjivfghepfv3 » « Have fun Lucca... » « OOC: haha » «ooc: Hehehehe. » > «ooc: I may be back MUCH later. We'll see. Oscar time ;) » «ooc: We all suck with OOC lately. » *** Ellena (lucca@pool0186.cvx20-bradley.dialup.earthlink.net) Quit (Quit: Quote #58 OH YEAH FUCKING A BABY O_O o_O lol WTMFH The ZVGHQ has Wurm quotes!) «ooc: *fucks a baby* » « OOC: republican! ;D » «ooc: shame on you. » * Hikaru kneels before the sword once again. "Aaron Thompson...mentor and substitute father of mine... your death will not be in vain, I promise. I will clear my name and bring this dojo back to the glory it was in when you first started it..." >> Outside, the snow continues to blow...the wind shakes the fragile foundations of the house...and inside, Hikaru kneels by the blade he left to honor his master...one journey finished, and another beginning. >> Meanwhile.... «ooc: http://rpgcafe.net/WARPG/files/companions.mid » >> The Metal Bird lands in the large, flat snowfield outside the Arctican Institute of Technology, its engines powering down with a diminishing whirr. The door snaps open, and stairs descend, as various faculty and guards rush to see what the fuss is. «ooc: Allen, Shane, Ney? » «ooc: hello » « hmm.. I might not have any mroe time.. nuts.. » * Shane looks out the window, spying the Large emblem over the main building... «ooc: Is Hikaru needed the rest of this session? » «ooc: Nope. » *** Hikaru (flare_star@lsanca1-ar7-216-083.dsl.gtei.net) Quit (Quit: Okay then, freeing up memory.) «ooc: And I can NPC neydisa for like two minutes if necessary, but she really just says bye to shane then flies back. » *** Dragoona (flare_star@lsanca1-ar7-216-083.dsl.gtei.net) has joined #WARPG Professor Ohm: What's going on here? Why is the Metal Bird here, of all places? * Shane rubs his coat's shoulderpatch, with the same mark upon it... «ooc: is Shane in the cockpit? » «ooc: was he, rather? » * Neydisa pours over the controls of the Metal Bird, easing it to earth. "This looks like it..." Ah, good professor... « was he? ^^ » « OOC: Shane's taken for granted as being in the cockpit with Ney flying until her skill is higher. » >> An elderly man mumbles to himself as he approaches, waiting for someone to depart. As Shane steps down, he adjusts his spectacles, peering. "Arturis? Is that you?" * Allen releases his harness and stands, glad that this time there is a SANE pilot. Uh... err... >> he blinks. Yes, sir... Ohm: ....uh...I'm sorry, sir, I mistook you for someone else. « OOC: err... » * Allen routes around in the cabin, looking for a coat or something else in storage. «ooc: I'll just cut the yes, sir...he responded when you said uh, er. » >> Ohm scratches his head, looking awfully perplexed. * Shane looks a bit taught. «ooc: Get it? Taught? Cause it's a SCHOOL! AHAH » I... er... We're emissaries from Adlehyde. * Neydisa gets up from the front, walking down the length of the cabin, and pausing to look out the door at Shane and the fellow from the Institute. * Shane steps clear of the Bird. * Allen pokes his head out the door. "Sorry, Shane, I'll be right there... I'm looking for a coat." Pops back in. Ohm: Do you have any relatives who...er, well, no matter. *extends a hand* I am Professor Thaddius Ohm. I take it this must be a matter of great importance, for Adlehyde to send its greatest machine." * Shane nods. Yes, indeed. I'm... Professor Shane Arthur. We've come in light of recent events involving the assassin known as Death. We're afraid that AIT may be in a sort of danger... Ohm: Ah. Excellent to meet you, Professor Arthur. Oh dear, I've heard tell of that assassin...they say he wears all black...the school? Surely you're mistaken! *he frowns, mumbling to himself a bit* But, er, no, I suppose not...so, uh, how can we assist you? * Neydisa points Allen to a few spares lying around in the back. ^^ >> A few other folks assemble behind the professor, but remain quiet while he speaks. Well, we've come ahead of the rest of our group, to make sure the facility is not compromised... «ooc: Allen is forced to wear a ladies' coat! » « hehe » I'd... rather not discuss the rest of this in the open, tho, Professor Ohm. For matters of security... Ohm: I assure you, we are well-guarded. However, if you insist...let's head inside, shall we? How many are there in your advance party, and how many should we expect later? .oO( Hmm. These probably.. er.. won't fit.. uh.. Nevermind. ) Only two of us. Myself, and a Prodigy magi from Curan. * Allen grabs a coat, decorative with frills and a pleasing shade of pale pink. "Yuck." This must be Marlene's. «ooc: Or Fuchsia's! » * Neydisa blinks. "Not a doubt in my mind of that..." * Allen sweatdrops. "I «ooc: EVIL! » * Allen sweatdrops. "I'll freeze, then." * Allen exits the Bird. Hello, er.. sorry to dally like that. * Neydisa looks apolegetically at Allen, joining him at the entrance to the Bird. "Shane, should I go back and get everyone now, or am I needed here?" «ooc: I am the Prodigy of the Abbey. I am the CompuServe of the Abbey. I am.. wait a sec... » « AOL-len ^_- » Well.. «ooc: EW! » * Shane grimaces... Ohm: Oh, no trouble at all. You are the prodigy from Curan, are you? Excellent. Well, let's get inside, all. Yes, you should go back to the capital. I shall see you when you return, Neydisa. Take care. * Shane nods. « OOC: to the prof. » * Allen glances over his shoulder at Neydisa as he is led into the building. >> He turns around, gesturing widely at the group behind him. "Come along, all! We're going to show Professor Arthur and his friend inside! Everything's all right, no need to panic..." * Neydisa nods in return. "Thanks. I'll do my best to make good time, Guardians willing..." * Shane waves to Neydisa as he's shoved off. >> Ohm tromps off toward the building, a huge, boxy structure made of interconnected stone buildings and topped with a variety of technological doohickeys. * Neydisa waves to them both, and heads inside to get the engiens warmed up and return to the city.. .^^ « Ok, I need to scoot » « OOC: cya Stor! » « I'm being horribly yelled at :) » «ooc: Bye Storen. » <> «ooc: Kick Wendy's ass! :D » << G'night, Stor. :) >> >> Neydisa automatically closes the side door and powers up the engine, preparing to return to the city to pick up the others... «ooc: Night, sorry you didn't get to do much. » « Nah, no prob » « *waves* » *** Disconnected [ Left here. More happened. ] Session Close: Sun Mar 25 20:34:10 2001