Session 14: The Motley Crew Sun Aug 13 2000 >> The group has assembled outside the town gates. Hikaru looks a bit more awake, thankfully, though everyone's a little perplexed by the sight of the "Rider". >> Strangely, Watcher hasn't showed yet. * Ellena doesn't seem quite as phased as the others, but looks...nervous. * Shane looks around. Charity: Mr.Arturis, I brought your papers. *hands Shane some documents* These will get you through the Royal pass. Shane: Ah... Thank you, Doctor. * Allen is introspective and isn't paying much attention. * Neydisa is leaning by the gates, looking over the Rider with interest. "I wonder where Shane got that thing...?" * Hikaru sighs. "Can we just get on with it?" * Shane looks around, and in a fairly public voice asks, "So, who's in?" >> Watcher runs up, stumbling and panting. "Sorry! Sorry! I'm here! Sorry!" * Ellena gets knocked down by Watcher as he rushes past! * Shane offers a hand to Ellena. Watcher: *pant, gasp* Ack...my fault...I always lose track of time. Ellena: T...Thanks... * Shane scowls at Watcher. Shane: Please, watch where you're heading! Shane: Are you okay, Ellena? * Ellena takes Shane's hand, and hauls herself up. "I think I'm a bit too short...people tend to lose sight of me...And I'm fine. Thanks though." * Shane nods. Shane: It's nothing. Watcher: Erk. Sorry, ma'am. * Neydisa blinks. "Are you okay, Ellena?" Ellena: It's okay. No...really! I'm fine. ^^ * Hikaru glares at Shane, but quickly turns his head. Starling: ...who the hell are you? >> Watcher shrugs. "I'm tagging along." >> Starling scowls. * Shane looks around for Starling. >> Starling is sitting in the cab of his ARM. Shane: Ah... * Neydisa nods a and smiles a little, waiting for Shane to introduce the couple of new faces. Shane: Everbody, The man with the machine is Starling. He'll be taking us to Centaur. Hikaru: Sure. Whatever... * Ellena looks at Hikaru curiously. Shane: And *points to Watcher* this man is Watcher. He'll also be accompanying us. * Hikaru mumbles something about Fuchsia. * Joseph walks up to the party. >> Watcher waves. Starling doesn't even glance at the group. * Neydisa turns to look up at Starling, and to the side at Watcher. "I'm Neydisa. Nice to meet you both." Ellena: (m) Fuchsia...? * Shane stands by Ellena, and watches everyone, looking a bit tired. * Hikaru blinks and looks at Ellena. "Eh?" * Allen returns from his reverie. Ellena: N-Nothing! ^^; Hikaru: ... * Allen smiles to the newcomers. * Ellena blushes a bit, not wanting Hikaru to think she's a snoop or anything. * Hikaru ruffles Ellena's hair, chuckling. Shane: Well, if everyone will enter the vehicle at their leisure, we'll be on our way... * Neydisa takes a few steps over to the approaching Joseph. "You're coming too? But I thought..." * Ellena panics a bit. "Ah! O_o Erhm...careful Mister Hikaru..." * Joseph slightly nods. * Shane looks quietly at Hikaru. * Hikaru looks at Shane, the air electrifying between them for a brief second. He turns his head again and hops into the car-ARM. Ellena: No offense, my head is still a bit sore from that run in we had earlier this morning. *Follows him into the car-ARM* I didn't mean to startle you... * Shane reflects a bit. * Neydisa rubs her head. "I"m glad to see you at any rate... I hope Marlene doesn't get lonely with her ARMs work." * Hikaru smiles. "No prob, 'Lena." * Ellena smiles a little. Ellena: . o O ( That was close... ) Joseph: She'll be fine. She is making money...that's what counts for her. * Allen sighs a bit. Neydisa: I guess so. I hope she'll be alright. :) Starling: ...let's get a move on. >> The inside of the Rider is, to say the least, spartan. Missing plates in the walls and floor expose machinery in a few places, and the interior consists of little more than two long benches across either side. * Shane walks up to the cab. * Neydisa looks to the Rider, and tries stepping on carefully. "Hmm... this is certainly new to me... I hope it's safe." * Joseph steps inside the cab. Starling: ... Watcher: Wow. This looks like it'd certainly attract attention. *climbs in awkwardly* * Shane looks at Joe. Joseph: ...What is it? Shane: Starling... you know where we're heading, yes? Starling: Yes. * Shane nods. Shane: Shall I pay you for today now, then? Starling: Yes. * Ellena hides in her seat a bit. * Allen steps into the car with a sad glance over his shoulder. * Shane nods, and hands over 300 gella. * Neydisa sits on a bench quietly. Shane: I'll leave you to your work, then. Thank you. Allen: (m) Oh well. We'll come back soon, I guess. * Allen finds a seat. >> The mercenary shoves the money in his pouch and touches a blank glass panel on the dashboard. The machine lurches to life, vibrations rolling across it with loud clanging, wheezing and wrenching sounds. * Shane heads back, and looks around for open seats. >> There are no seats, per se. Everyone still standing is jerked around a bit as the vehicle shoots off. * Shane finds an area to put down his pack, and secures it with some odd stretching rope at a bulkhead. * Neydisa looks at a few of areas with the missing plates, mumbling a little. "I wonder if this is powered by steam, like those ships..." Shane: No... It's powered by Fuel Cells... Shane: ...They're rare these days. * Ellena looks really nervous...really REALLY nervous, as she looks around the armored car-doohickey. Hikaru: Obviously, since I've never heard of them. What the hell are they? * Shane looks at Ellena. Neydisa: A fuel cell? Is that meaning this whole thing is like an ARM sort of? * Hikaru looks at Ellena. "Are you okay?" Ellena: Ah...I'm...I'm fine...Don't worry about me. >> The engine whines as it accellerates...getting higher and higher pitched, then finally levelling off. Outside the halfway-barred door, the landscape is blasting by with almost eerie speed. Shane: You need not worry... I checked out the machine earlier, Ellena. It's loud, but safe. Shane: And, if you're intrested so much, Hikaru... Ellena: I...I know...*Shakes her head* It's nothing. Please...enjoy the view... ^^; Watcher: So! This'll be fun, eh? * Joseph looks at Ellena. "Quit talking like a spaz." * Shane opens a pouch in his bag, and pulls out a small cylinder. * Ellena hears Joseph and shuts up. * Allen glances at Watcher with a strange look on his face. Shane: This is a power cell. * Hikaru glares at Joseph. "Fuck off, cloak-boy." >> The man in the rainbow clothing blinks at Allen. "Hi!" * Shane looks a bit distressed by everyone's reactions. * Joseph shrugs, basically ignoring Hikaru's comment. * Shane puts the cell back and sighs. * Neydisa glances at the cell, then to Ellena. "Are you sure you're alright? I'm a little nervous too." * Allen smiles back, a little belatedly. * Allen returns to his musings. * Hikaru looks at Ellena "...Don't worry... me...and Shane, I guess...will protect you." Watcher: And me! Sort of. * Shane observes Hikaru again. Shane: And Starling. * Hikaru "observes" Shane. "Who? ...Oh, the one with the car. Right." Shane: No less so than any name. Neydisa: Actually, you're... Watcher... right? Watcher: Yeah. You can call me whatever, though. Neydisa: That's a strange name. * Allen tries to get comfortable but fails. Allen: Hmm. * Shane rummages through his pack, and produces some pillows. Watcher: It's not my original name. It's sort of...a pseudonym for the road! Neydisa: Well... with that name, he sounds like a bodyguard actually. Is that why he's here? * Shane offers one to Allen, and one to Ellena. * Allen blinks. * Hikaru looks at Neydisa. (m) "And like every little girl around the corner is named 'Neydisa'..." Allen: Hey wow. Thanks, Shane! Shane: No problem. You looked uncomfortable. * Allen shrugs. * Hikaru grrs, glaring at Shane again. * Neydisa nods a little. Shee seems to be making small talk to stop thinking about something bugging her. * Shane looks oddly at Hikaru. Shane: Something wrong, Hik? Hikaru: ...No, nothing... Shane: You want a pillow too? I can bundle some clothes together... Hikaru: .oO(Damn him. Just because I don't have a limitless bag of crap or whatever it is he has...) * Allen looks at Neydisa and realizes she feels the same way he does. Perhaps he should join the conversation as well... * Shane starts rummaging through his pack. Hikaru: ...I'm fine. ^_^ Really. Shane: Oh... okay. * Shane shrugs. * Hikaru goes back to simmering. Allen: So... what is our objective once we arrive? >> Watcher looks around at the group a few times, then starts trimming his nails with a clipper he popped out of his swiss army knife. Watcher: Oh, that's true. I never thought to ask. What brings you to Saint Centour? Making a pilgrimage? Shane: Well... Shane: Everyone who can help me with the Portal in Centour will be working with me. Everyone else will be on guard for... trouble. Shane: ...but since I can't evaluate who's skillsets will be needed, I don't know who'll be doing what. Allen: Portal...? * Allen frowns. Shane: Yes, a dimensional portal. Shane: It was damaged during the war. * Neydisa looks at the knife a little quizzically, then back to Shane. "Dimensional portal?" Shane: It's quite a unique artifact. Allen: I'm sorry... my mind has been on other things. I haven't been paying attention. >> Watcher nods. "It's a dimension-twisting barrier that prevents soulless beings from entering the city." Allen: Ah, it sounds interesting. Shane: It keeps spirits ... * Shane looks at Watcher. Watcher: So you're like repairmen, eh? Cool. * Neydisa blinks as Watcher talks. Neydisa: You... know a lot about the spirit world? Shane: Watcher, do you know anything about engineering? Watcher: I know engineers do it. ^_^ Shane: How'd you know about the Portal? Allen: (m) I wonder if there's anything I can actually do to help...? *sigh* >> Watcher shrugs. "I've been there before. It's a fun place. Bit churchy though." * Hikaru shrugs. * Hikaru looks at Ellena. "You okay now?" * Neydisa looks thoughtful. .oO( I wonder... ) * Joseph pulls out the Cormorant and checks the ammo among other things. * Ellena doesn't look any less nervous. "I'm okay...or will be okay...once we get off this thing..." * Hikaru looks to Ellena. "Carsick?" Ellena: No...It's just...It's...I can't explain it. * Hikaru patpats Ellena and holds her close. "It'll be all right. Okay, 'Lena?" * Allen is amazed *he* isn't carsick. * Shane frowns at Ellena in sympathy. * Allen smiles. .oO( I've been cured! ) * Shane is amazed by Hikaru's forwardness. * Ellena blinks at Hikaru's action, but hugs him back. "Thanks 'Karu...I'm sure it'll be." * Shane looks reflective. Neydisa: Hey Allen... how come you seem fine in this car yet had trouble on a ship? * Joseph holsters the Cormorant, and performs the same checks on his machine gun. Allen: You know... I'm not sure. * Shane pulls out a pad from his bag, and starts writing things down. Neydisa: It's probably the motion... it's a lot different. Watcher: Well, I have trouble with ships too, but I'm fine here...though (ow) my butt is starting to ache from all this bouncing. Allen: Well... I didn't have problems driving to Adlehyde with my brother all those times. Allen: So perhaps it's just sailing. >> Shane has a damn hard time writing with the constant rocking, bouncing and vibrating of the Rider. * Ellena gets shaked and baked. Neydisa: Maybe the sea air bothers you? Allen: Hmm. I dunno. Allen: It was a little fishy smelling. ^_^ * Shane, frustrated, puts back the pen, gets a few inspection tools, and goes to an open panel (that just happens to be behind Ellena and Hikaru). Allen: But I guess I should ease into sailing. Perhaps I'd be better now... (rambles on) * Neydisa finds it hard to laugh well as she bounces. ^^ Neydisa: It takes a long time to get used to it. I was lucky I grew up into it. Watcher: You get used to it when you travel a lot. I'm always on the road. Sort of an...adventurer! * Hikaru looks at Shane. "Eh?" Ellena: Hey...'Karu? Are you still tired? You can always sleep now. We're not going to reach Saint Centour for a while... Allen: Yes, living on water sounds like a great life... if you are used to it. * Joseph overhears the Watcher..."Adventurer..." gives off a slight chuckle. Hikaru: Naw, I'm fine. I'm just kind of worried. Ellena: About Rayle? * Hikaru nods... Shane: Just checking out the works... I think I may be able to diagnose the problem giving us a hard ride... Neydisa: Well, it just feels like home to me. It's a really comforting feeling. Shane: ...not gonna touch anything without permission, tho'... Watcher: (to Joseph) Hum? Allen: Yeah... like me and the abbey... * Allen sighs a bit. Ellena: I'm sure you'll find him... Shane: Hik, do you want something to help you sleep? Shane: I know I have some whiskey in the bag... Watcher: I kinda figured it was the ground giving us a hard ride. * Joseph ignores him, and finishes the checks on the machine gun. Neydisa: That's where they teach Crest Magic, right? I'd love to see it sometime. * Hikaru looks at Shane. "I'm -fine-, Shane." Hikaru: Thanks for offering though. * Ellena frowns a bit. * Shane shrugs. "Anytime. I don't drink much anymore, but it's useful to have..." * Hikaru looks back to Ellena. "Yeah... he's like the only friend I have left... other than this group, I mean..." * Ellena looks down. "It's hard to lose your friends..." * Neydisa looks at Allen's sigh. "You miss your friends there?" Wathcer: I like the Abbey. I was there once. Do they still have that big statue of Dhee? * Shane starts looking into the panel. Ellena: ... * Hikaru blinks. "'Lena..." * Ellena looks up. "Huh?" Hikaru: I'm sorry if I brought up any painful memories with that. * Ellena blinks. "No...no! It's okay...You didn't do anything wrong." * Allen looks at Watcher with an odd stare. Watcher: Erm? Allen: Sorry. I'm a little- whoa! *falls out of his seat following a bump* Hikaru: ...You sure? * Allen rubs his nose. "OW ow ow..." >> Watcher offers Allen a hand, but nearly falls himself on the next bump. "Careful! Heh." Ellena: Yeah. I'll be fine. Neydisa: Allen... you have to watch the bumps! Are you alright? * Hikaru smiles and holds Ellena closer. Allen: Yeah, I'm okay. ^_^; * Ellena grins a bit. * Allen gets back in his seat. * Neydisa tries to help Allen to his seat without falling over herself. * Shane hits his head on a panel and swears in spell-talk. * Allen's virgin ears! * Allen glances at Shane, startled. * Allen returns to his conversation with Ney. * Shane rubs his head, and ducks out of the hole. Ellena: You okay, Shane? That sounded like it hurt... Allen: I'm sorry... what were you saying before? Neydisa: Right... I was wondering why you sighed. Do you miss your friends back at the Abbey? * Shane pulls a finger back, with some blood now on it. Neydisa: I couldn't understand what Shane just said... but it sounded like sailor talk to me. Hikaru: Shane! Hikaru: You okay? Ellena: Shane! Oh no... * Shane looks annoyed. Shane: Yeah... just hazard of the trade, really. Allen: Oh, er... I guess. Allen: But I think I miss the place itself even moreso. * Shane heads back to his pack, pulls out a kerchief and a flask, soaks the kerchief, and starts cleaning his wound, while cringing. Ellena: Shane... * Ellena looks concerened. * Shane looks up at Ellena. * Neydisa nods. "It must be hard being away from your home. You must be on some important trip..." Hikaru: Shane... You need a Heal Berry? ^^; I've got some if you need 'em... Ellena: Me too... Shane: Heh... thanks for the offer. It's better I practice, though... * Shane politely waves no to Hik and El, and starts chanting a heal spell. Allen: And then there's my family. Or pseudo-family, whatever. Watcher: Pseudo-family? Neydisa: What do you mean by that? I don't wnat to be rude or anything. Allen: It's a long story. I don't want to talk about it now. Perhaps later. * Neydisa nods slowly. "OK..." Watcher: *chuckles* Wow, it's been a long time since I've seen my family. Wonder what they'd think if they saw me now. >> Watcher laughs quietly to himself, then sighs and shakes his head. "I'm gonna go stand by the door. I like to see the scenery whiz by." * Ellena sighs, and looks out one of the side windows at the passing scenery. Shane: Hrmm... * Hikaru looks in the same direction as Ellena... * Shane looks around impressedly at the vehicle. * Hikaru sighs. "Are we there yet, mommyyyyy...?" Allen: So, Mister Watcher... where are you from? Watcher: Adlehyde originally, actually. But I've been all around. * Neydisa lets her head drop a bit, easing out of the active conversation and content to listen. >> Time passes slowly despite the great speed with which the vehicle is moving...the conversation flares up periodically, and dies down other times as the sun slowly crawls towards the horizon. >> Watcher yawns. Watcher: Mmmlehgfl. * Ellena has fallen asleep against Hikaru. Maybe she was overtired herself? * Allen explains a little about crest magic to Neydisa. * Neydisa listens to Allen, enjoying the chat. But you can see she's slowly starting to wear down as the day drags on... * Hikaru smiles, just liking the fact that Ellena is there, and slowly falls asleep as well. * Joseph sits like he always does, not saying anything. >> Starling is dead quiet, just sitting there with his hand on the panel. He hasn't spoken once. * Shane wonders if Starling can be talked to while he drives, but won't hazard trying. >> The terrain outside has become more mountainous as the hours drag on, and is decidedly more vertical than before. * Shane looks at Hikaru and Ellena from time to time. Allen: ...and that's why we need to use Crest Graphs. Allen: Um... I'm not boring you, am I? Neydisa: I see... that's so much different than Shamanism. Watcher: Not really. It's all about perception. * Neydisa shakes her head. "No...no... I'm just getting a little tired. You'd make a great teacher someday." * Allen brightens ^-^; >> Watcher flips a comb out of his swiss army knife, removes his beat-up old tophat, and fritzes with his hair. Allen: Why thank you, Neydisa. * Allen digs in his bag for a moment... Neydisa: It's true. It takes a certain person to study hard in the Abbey. I'm not sure I could ever do it... Watcher: Anyone got a mirror? Hikaru: zzz ~-~ Shane: Yeah... hold on... * Ellena stirs a bit, looking a tad ...uneasy?...In her sleep. * Shane produces a mirror from his bag. Watcher: Thanks. Always important to look one's best, you know. * Neydisa looks out the window at the mountains. * Shane chuckles to himself. Allen: Oh, I dunno Ney... I think you'd do great. * Neydisa looks back. "I don't know. I just do what I can..." * Allen assumes Neydisa wants to be alone with the view for a while. * Ellena stirs a bit more, looking really uneasy in her sleep. * Shane frowns at Ellena. He is no stranger to Nightmares... * Shane shakes his head, looks down, and gets back to examining the machine. Neydisa: I wonder... I hope nothing happens in the mountains at night. * Allen's gaze falls upon Ellena and he gets a worried look on his face. * Allen blinks at Shane through his specs. Allen: Should we wake her up? She doesn't look too comfortable... Watcher: She might be grouchy. * Allen laughs a bit. * Shane shrugs. Allen: Ellena? Grouchy? Shane: It's best to let people sleep, unless they're flailing or screaming... * Allen frowns. Allen: I guess you're right. Shane: But... * Shane looks at Ellena. Shane: ... * Shane shakes his head, and goes back to the panel. * Neydisa looks back to everyone, and sighs a bit. * Allen glances over to Neydisa. "Now it's your turn to sigh..." * Hikaru unconsciously (because he's unconscious and all) squeezes Ellena closer to him. Neydisa: I guess so. I just have... things bugging me. * Allen gets up and stands next to Neydisa. "Do you want to talk about it?" * Allen holds on to something to avoid getting pitched over. * Neydisa rest her head against a panel. "Sure... but it's not as interesting as crest magic..." ^^ * Ellena meeps, but remains asleep. Allen: Eh... Magic may be flashy, but it's pretty technical and boring if you haven't been studying it. Watcher: He's right about that! S'why I left the Academy. Neydisa: Well, I'm not sure about life in general... it can be so many things all at once. Allen: I think I know what you mean, Neydisa. Neydisa: Everything changes so fast... one day I'm working in a small inn in the city, then I'm with you all, seeing amazing things... Allen: (to Watcher) How long ago did you leave, by the way? * Ellena shifts a bit more in her dream, sorta accidentally poking Hikaru in the ribs at one point. Watcher: God, must have been...15 years ago now? Not sure, I lose track. *he laughs* * Hikaru shifts when he gets poked, poking Ellena...somewhere else. * Allen wonders if he might have seen him at one point... but he was just a baby. Allen: (to Ney) It seems like change is the standard for all of us. >> Watcher doesn't look familiar, but aside from the clothes there's nothing remotely outstanding about his appearance. * Allen frowns inwardly. Neydisa: Allen, if you knew some of the things I've been through in Rosetta... I changed a lot then. * Joseph flinches a little as he listens to the conversations. Allen: Well... do you want to talk about it? I find that working through what's happened in your life can be helpful. It's something I should do as well. Neydisa: It's nothing really to say. I guess I was just one of those people looking for opportunity, but got lost somewhere in the shuffle. Watcher: Isn't it always the way. Hey, does anyone have food? * Hikaru grumbles and moans a bit. Neydisa: I can blame GaiaCo a little... but I'm to blame a lot too. Maybe if I stick with you I can finally move on and change in a good way. * Allen looks thoughtful for a moment, then rolls his eyes at the Watcher's comment. Neydisa: But, I'm rambling... I'm sorry. ^^ * Hikaru mumbles something about Ellena and harder... * Allen is glad he and the others here are seen as a good influence on life * Hikaru wakes up, wide-eyed, realizing he's still holding Ellena, and blushing profusely. Hikaru: (q) Erhm... ^^; * Ellena is still sleeping, but looks uneasy still. * Hikaru looks at Ellena. * Hikaru sighs. * Hikaru ponders if he should wake her up. Allen: It's okay, we have plenty of time. Ramble on, if you like. Allen: Or, if you're uncomfortable, we can talk about something else. It's up to you. * Joseph suddenly speaks for no reason..."Damn, this is boring..." Watcher: No food? ...well...uh...I'm gonna go sleep then. Night. >> Watcher slumps his head. * Neydisa ruffles her dark blue hair. "I really don't know. I just like all of your company... you make me feel stronger. You too Joseph... I owe you a lot." Joseph: .....For what? Ellena: ... Neydisa: Well, you did save me on the roof. I still feel bad I put you in that position. * Hikaru watches Ellena closely... Joseph: It was nothing. If I hadn't reached out then someone else would have. * Ellena's eyes twitch and she looks...scared? Neydisa: It takes a lot to extend yourself for other people... * Hikaru shakes Ellena softly. "Wake up, 'Lena..." * Ellena flinches, then half asleep, backs up away from Hikaru. "Keep that knife away fro...*Blink* Oh..." * Hikaru raises an eyebrow, concerned. "Knife?" * Ellena blinks again. "I...It's nothing...a nightmare...Sorry Hikaru..." Joseph: ...Risks are around us everyday. It's nothing to try to save the life of another. Hikaru: ...Are you sure, 'Lena? >> Meanwhile, Watcher trains to beat Marlene in the Snoring World Torunament. * Allen wishes he'd graphed a Silence spell. * Ellena nods, looking down. "Yes...I'll be okay." * Joseph looks at Ellena. "Gimme that pillow." Ellena: ... Allen: Perhaps I can wing it. * Ellena quietly hands it to Joseph. * Joseph takes the pillow and throws it at Watcher. Joseph: Ok, you can have it back now. * Neydisa grins slightly, a welcome change in her face. "I think I miss Marlene a little less now, at least." * Ellena then quietly takes it back, saying nothing...looking miserable. Hikaru: Damn you, Joseph... * Hikaru grumbles. "Asshole." Joseph: Shut up, you dick. Hikaru: At least I have one. * Hikaru growls. Ellena: Stop it... >> Watcher continues sleeping. * Joseph shoots dagger eyes at Hikaru. Ellena: Please...? Neydisa: No fighting please? Shane: Gentlemen... Gentlemen! * Allen gets out a scrap of paper and starts to write out an equation or two. He mumbles, "Hmm... bah. I need more graphs. Perhaps I should have stopped at the Abbey..." Allen: (m) Of course, they wouldn't just *give* me more of them. Bleh. Neydisa: Allen, maybe they'd have some in Saint Centour? Allen: Eh... You can't just buy them or anything. * Ellena twiddles her thumbs, looking out the window. * Shane looks at everyone sidelong. * Joseph looks at Shane. "Got anything in that bag that will shut up that awful snoring?" * Shane shrugs. * Hikaru sighs. "Sorry, 'Lena..." Shane: I can't belive you're all put off by the snoring... The engine is much louder. Neydisa: Oh... must be very special paper to be so rare. But doesn't that make it tough being in your profession? Hikaru: I'm not, Shane... * Hikaru glares daggers right back at Joseph. Joseph: The engine is a normal thing. I'm used to them. * Ellena either hasn't heard Hikaru, or is ignoring him. Judging by how sad she looks, it's probably the former. Shane: Ellena... are you okay? Hikaru: Ellena... I'm sorry... I didn't mean to do anything wrong... * Ellena blinks, and looks to the others. "You didn't do anything wrong...It's just me..." Shane: ...? * Joseph doesn't say anything and drapes his hood over his head...covering his face. Ellena: I just had a nightmare. That's all...It's sort of hard for me to shake off... Hikaru: Just you? You didn't do anything wrong... * Shane nods. Hikaru: And it was just a dream... * Hikaru sighs. Shane: I understand. I can't sleep at night, either... Shane: ...I've been having nightmares since I can remember... Ellena: Really Shane? * Neydisa nods. "I understand you... sometimes they seem so real, even when you wake up..." Shane: ...s'why I'm so good at machines. I throw myself into my work around the clock. Shane: Yeah. I usually get less than four hours a night. Five if I'm lucky... Shane: ...they feel so... terrible... and big, oh so big... * Shane's trailing off a bit, volume-wise. * Ellena nods. "And sometimes you have no control in them...Things just happen and you feel like you're drowning..." * Shane nods, somberly. * Neydisa finds herself slowly drifting off as everyone talks about sleep and nightmares. "Drowning..." Hikaru: ... * Hikaru sighs. Shane: I understand. Completely... * Hikaru looks behind him, just hoping for once. * Joseph looks out of a window to see if he can determine how much longer the trip will be. * Ellena smiles a little, feeling better. Ellena: Thank you 'Karu...Shane. * Shane's shaken out of the reflectiveness by Ellena's smile, and smiles back. Shane: Ell... Do you want to be awakened when we see you turning? * Neydisa takes a couple of deep breaths, and then the next time you look to check, she's asleep. * Allen wishes he could remember his dreams. In more than one sense of that phrase... Shane: I usually don't want to, seeing as I need the sleep when I can stay asleep... but... * Ellena frowns. "It's up to you. I'm sorry I didn't wake up right away...It's the first time anyone's really done that." * Hikaru has been put into a depressive mode for some reason and doesn't notice anything anymore... Allen: (m) Except for that one dream... * Allen shudders. Ellena: I'm sort of embarrased... *^^* Allen: .oO( Don't think about it... stay busy... ) * Allen digs through his pack a bit. * Shane settles back, and yawns a little. Ellena: Shane...if you have a bad dream, I assume I shouldn't wake you up? Allen: Hargh. I wish I'd bought another set of those weirding stones. Shane: No... not unless you think it wise. * Allen retrieves his old staff. Ellena: All right...I'll be up for a bit... * Shane nods. * Neydisa looks rather peaceful as she settles into sleep, the loud engine and snoring not bothering her one bit. Shane: Heh... I almost feel as though I could drop off for a bit... but... * Shane looks slightly down. Hikaru: ... Allen: I'll wake you up if anything happens, Shane. * Shane looks a bit afraid. * Shane shakes it away, and looks back at the panel. * Ellena seems very sympathetic. * Shane looks back at Ellena. Shane: I don't know... * Allen studies every inch of the staff, intent on knowing it by heart. * Ellena smiles. "Just know this...when you wake up...we'll all be here... " Shane: ...I... * Shane chuckles, perhaps a bit nervously. Shane: I guess... you're right... * Ellena nods. "I'll try to listen to my own advice..." * Ellena looks a touch meek. Hikaru: ... * Shane takes his bedroll off of his pack, and unrolls it in the back, where he was working behind much earlier... * Ellena turns to Hikaru, and looks at him sadly. Hikaru: ... * Shane decides to lie down on top of the roll, and turns to face everyone. Shane: Hikaru, are you okay? * Allen holds the staff out in front of him and chants some algorithms, quietly. Hikaru: ... * Ellena gives Hikaru a little hug. * Hikaru blinks and sighs. * Neydisa spasms and coughs a few times in her otherwise still sleep. * Allen snaps out of his enchantment. * Shane pats Hikaru on the shoulder, and then folds his hand under his head. Allen: Gah... I need to concentrate. Allen: Oh... * Allen offers Shane's pillow back to him. Allen: Thanks for letting me use this, but you need it more than I now. Shane: Thank you, Allen. * Allen puts his staff away and sits cross-legged on the floor, trying to concentrate. * Ellena looks out the window. "Doesn't Starling need sleep?" * Hikaru sighs again. "Why can't things ever..." Allen: Do you know anyone else who could drive this, Ellena? Ellena: ...No... * Ellena sighs. Allen: Perhaps he should take a break, though... Allen: Well. If he needs to, I'm sure he will. * Shane gets up. Shane: Actually... I should check on him. * Allen closes his eyes again and returns to his meditation. * Shane goes to the cabin. * Shane walks back. "He seems to be in a trance... I dont want to disturb him." * Shane plops back down on his bedroll. * Ellena wishes she had some way to make Hikaru get his mind off Rayle...but...doesn't really have any means to. * Neydisa's head smacks into the wall a bit as they hit a bump, jarring her awake some. Ellena: 'Karu? * Hikaru sighs again, and ponders how hard it would be to jump out of the car-thingie. * Allen imagines the cloud turning into a great dove and carrying him across the sky... * Ellena twirls a bit of her blonde hair in her hands, looking a bit lost. "Nevermind...I guess..." Neydisa: Ah... oh, was I asleep? * Hikaru pulls out his sword... * Ellena blinks! * Shane goes wide-eyed, where he was watching everyone idly on his side. * Allen imagines the bird becoming a great lion, and leading him somewhat disinterestedly across a vast maze... * Hikaru sits back down, gazing at the silver blade, and the golden hilt accompanying it. * Neydisa opens her eyes fully as Hikaru draws his weapon, wondering if she picked a bad time to be roused. * Allen snaps out of his meditation. Ellena: 'Karu...? Allen: Oh... my... * Allen holds his head. * Allen breathes deeply to calm himself. * Hikaru ponders. Allen: That... wasn't so good... Ellena: 'Karu? What are you doing...? Hikaru: ... * Shane's hand is now under his bag. * Allen stands and braces himself against a window, oblivioua to the goings-on. * Ellena begins to back away some, looking scared. * Neydisa looks over to Allen with a curious expression. Shane: Hikaru... what are you doing? Allen: I... don't want to... remember... Neydisa: Allen? Do something happen while I was asleep? * Allen jumps at the sound of his name. * Ellena stares at Hikaru. * Allen composes himself and turns around. Allen: Gah, Hikaru! What are you doing? * Hikaru quietly pricks a finger with the point of his blade, three drops of blood coming out...hitting the floor, and turning into gella pieces. Hikaru: ...Good, it works. ^_^ Ellena: ...How did you do that? >> Hikaru takes 3 damage and gains 1 gella. Allen: I told you it would work. * Allen shrugs. * Hikaru seathes the sword. "Good." * Shane blinks. >> Watcher wakes up, blinking. "Oooh, gella." >> He grabs the gella piece from the floor. Neydisa: What was that? Allen: It's a sword that turns blood into Gella. * Hikaru blinks. "Oh, something Allen made for me." Neydisa: Allen? You... made it do that? * Allen bows slightly. Shane: Enchantment? Allen: Well yes. I was a little surprised by the request at first, but... * Hikaru glares at Watcher. "Hey. Give that back... that was supposed to be Joseph's payment for coming along." Ellena: Wow...you're really talented, Allen. * Allen blushes. Ellena: I wish I could do that... ^_^ Shane: I've never done anything quite like... Neydisa: So that's enchantment... it's amazing. Allen: I just found it interesting, so I studied it at the Abbey. Neydisa: But... well... that thing still sounds a little dangerous to me... Allen: I was going to do some more enchantment, but I can't get into focus. * Allen sighs. Shane: Is it only your blood? Or any blood? >> Watcher sulks and hands the gella piece to Hikaru. * Hikaru sighs. "It's fine, Neydisa... And Shane, according to Allen, it'll work on any blood." Shane: Intresting item for a swordsman. Watcher: You know, I've seen one of those doohickeys before. Allen: Have you really? * Allen blinks at the Watcher. * Hikaru takes the gella piece and hands it to Joseph. "Happy birthday. Here's your payment." Allen: I thought it sounded pretty original when Hikaru proposed the idea of such a weapon. Watcher: Yeah, long time ago. Except it was a knife. Not sure what happened to it, the owner eventually went on a killing spree and was hanged. * Joseph ignores Hikaru. Shane: How long ago? * Allen blinks. * Hikaru blinks. "I...see." Hikaru: Not exactly pleasant... Watcher: Let's see...*counts on his fingers* Two...three.....I have no idea. * Hikaru rubs his neck. "Er, yeah." * Neydisa sighs. "That kind of what I meant by dangerous... greed is powerful." Ellena: ...Yeah... Allen: Well, I had hoped Hikaru wouldn't parade it about, but that's up to him. * Shane keeps his hand under his pack. Allen: And I trust him... *looks at Hikaru* ...you, so there's no problem. Hikaru: I wasn't trying to parade it about. Allen: Apologies, I used the wrong term. * Hikaru grins. "I just wanted the attention. This ride is getting boring. 'Lena, I wish I hadn't scared you like that." * Ellena sighs a bit, but there's a small smile on her face. "It's okay, 'Karu." * Shane makes a sound in his throat. Allen: (m) blood into gold... * Neydisa looks at her loose brown clothes, eyeing the strap of the leather gear she recently purchased. "...does it work on anything?" * Allen returns from his musings. Allen: What, the enchantment? * Neydisa nods. Allen: (to Neydisa) Well, not quite. Shane: Blood magic is dangerous, Allen. I'm surprised you knew how, and more surprised you'd show it publicly... * Shane considers Allen. Allen: (to Shane) It didn't seem like such an ominous undertaking at the time... Shane: Using blood is a dangerous thing. It dabbles in what the Elw did, but we have neither their expertise nor caution... * Ellena blinks a bit, and looks out the window. Shane: Blood has power, the power of life. That is to be respected, and feared. And never perverted. * Neydisa thinks. "Shane, that's really profound." * Allen gets a little upset. Allen: Shane, you make it sound like I transgressed a law or somesuch. * Hikaru sighs. "Sorry..." * Ellena gives Allen a little smile. "I think it's great that you can things like that, Allen. :)" Shane: It's not so profound... it's just that life-magics are dangerous. I've studied them intently, and I still won't use them. not until I'm sure. Ellena: It all depends on who uses it, right? Neydisa: I trust Allen and Hikaru a lot... * Shane looks apologetically at Allen. * Ellena looks down at the floor. (m) "Of course..." Hikaru: ...Ell, what's wrong? Allen: Then perhaps I should defer to you, Shane. If you know that life magic is dangerous then feel free to dismantle the enchantment and bury that sword in the deepest cavern. Shane: Look, Allen... I'm sorry if I was forceful, but magic of that kind can be dangerous... extremely... * Ellena looks at Hikaru. "Just babbling to myself." * Shane shakes his head. Neydisa: Allen, please don't say that... wasn't it an achievement you even made such a thing? Allen: Well, I thought so at the time. Shane: You are the master of your actions. It's... * Shane sighs into his pack. Neydisa: I think we should think about that, and not worry so much. Worrying can lead to those worries actually coming true. Shane: .oO{ he didn't mean wrong by it... he just doesn't think the same way... } Shane: Sorry, Allen. Just be careful with what you make. * Joseph sits down and looks at Neydisa. "I'm going to bed...wake me when we get there." Shane: .oO{ ...but if he made something like that so easily... and so young... } Allen: Shane, I didn't even finish my studies at the abbey, so perhaps I don't have that measure of care over what magic can do. It sounded like a good idea at the time, since we've been fighting so much lately... Shane: You created that... and you've not graduated. Hikaru: . . . * Neydisa nods to Joseph. "OK... I hope it's soon." Allen: Well, I was close. Allen: But I had to leave the Abbey. Long story. * Shane stares dumbfounded at the young magician. * Joseph drapes his hood over his face and goes to sleep. Neydisa: You're not in trouble are you Allen? * Allen frowns. Allen: (to Ney) Perhaps I am. I don't know. Shane: Heh. Everyone has their secrets. Allen: And... Shane, it was pretty lucky too. I had to use a set of weirding stones to get the enchantment to stick. Hikaru: Maybe I should just leave. Ellena: 'Karu...no! * Shane looks at Hikaru with a question on his face. Shane: Why? * Hikaru gets up to leave...and then realizes they're travelling at about 90 miles per hour. "Um...oops. I guess not." Ellena: Why is everyone fighting... Please...can we just get along...? Watcher: Life's too short to bicker. Let's just chill. Allen: Eh... No fighting. Just discussion. * Neydisa mumbles to herself, "Maybe we're both running from something..." Shane: Your skills as a swordsman are most needed, Hikaru. Remember who awaits us. * Hikaru looks to Shane. "Uh...who?" Watcher: Who awaits us? >> Watcher scratches his head. Shane: Oh, nevermind... Watcher: ...meh. Watcher: You're not in some kind of trouble, are you? * Neydisa looks at Shane. She nods a little, knowing just who he means. * Hikaru holds Ellena close. "Don't worry. I'll protect you from it." * Ellena curls up into a ball in her seat, feeling oddly responsible for all of this fighting. * Shane gives Watcher a plaintive look. Ellena: 'Karu...It's not that... Hikaru: What is it, then? * Hikaru looks concerned. Watcher: Well, okay, just remember. Even my vast martial prowess may not be enough to protect us from some threats. Shane: One usually doesn't need armed men if everybody likes him, no? Ellena: It's...something personal. * Shane gives watcher an "o-kaaay" look. * Allen decides not to enchant anything. If such controversy can arise from him doing so... * Shane gets out of his bedroll again, and sits next to Allen. * Shane whispers to Allen. >> All sounds vanish in a horrible, cacaphonous rumbling. Ellena: ...Huh? * Hikaru blinks. * Shane looks up, startled. >> Joseph wakes up from the noise. * Shane looks to Allen, and gives him a 'I'll talk later'... * Shane goes to the cabin. Shane: Are... we there? * Neydisa wasn't really listening to anything in particular for a moment, but the sound forces her to take notice! Ellena: What...? Shane: Starling? >> Starling is on his feet, one hand still on the glass panel. "There was a rockslide. I'm not sure if we can get by." Shane: Hrmm... Ellena: Oh no... Shane: How large is it? Shane: The obstruction... Watcher: We won't have to move rocks, will we? I've got a bad back, don't you know... * Joseph is awake, but doesn't say anything. Neydisa: A rockslide doesn't sound good... >> Starling points out the window, where a vast pile of rocks blots out the darkened sky. He then pulls out his ARM and steps outside. Allen: (m) I'll just create a towering flame sword to blow the rocks to smithereens. Shane: Allen, you know combat magics, yes? Joeseph, you have explosives... * Ellena gives Allen a sad little look. Joseph: Umm, no I don't. Marlene kept all the bombs. Neydisa: Allen... * Shane curses under his breath. Shane: Just when we'd need the bomb-girl... Shane: Allen, you'll come with me? Allen: Okay. * Allen was heading toward the exit anyway. * Neydisa looks out the window, to try to discern the size of the avalanche. * Shane rummages through his pack, pockets a few items, and hops out of the truck. Hikaru: ... Hikaru: Hmm. >> Starling pulls a small, round pellet from his belt and drops it down his gun's barrel, flicking the hammer. Starling: Move. * Hikaru moves! ^^; * Shane does as directed. * Joseph steps aside. >> Starling balances the gun on his left arm, takes aim, and a gunshot rings out. He stumbles back, bleeding. Ellena: W...what? Starling! O_o Hikaru: Starling...? * Shane looks up at Starling. >> Suddenly, a mass of dark shapes appear on top of the rockslide. "This is our territory! Leave your vehicle, ARMs and valuables and you won't be hurt!" >> Starling grunts and digs in his heels. * Ellena blinks, and edges closer to whoever is standing next to her. * Shane dives inside the truck. >> Watcher steps out of the Rider. "What's going on?" Shane: Bandits! * Hikaru draws his sword - not the one he used before, anyone observant may notice. * Shane unholsters his gun, and peeks outside. * Neydisa watches from inside. "I should have not said anything before... now my worries came true." * Joseph draws his staff from under his cloak. >> One man steps forward, his youthful face framed by spiky red hair that blows in the wind. He offers a rakish smile and points a very large rifle at the group. "When you get to where you're going, tell them you ran into Wild Bill and his gang!" >> He tips his Stetson in mock greeting. Ellena: I...I...*looks nervous* Hikaru: Sure. * Shane whispers to Ellena... "can you summon one of those... guardians?" >> All the figures except him leap to the ground, while he speaks. "Don't try to get away unless you leave your stuff behind!" * Allen edges behind the vehicle... Ellena: I can try... >> The young man points his gun at Allen and fires a warning shot. Hikaru: I'll do that, if you make sure that you tell the next town you're in that you got castrated by Hikaru Fujimiya and his gang. Ellena: Stop that! Shane: (w) can you make a flood? That'd clear them out... >> Several of the bandits chuckle. "You want a fight?" * Joseph replies, "You wanna die?" * Neydisa holds position near the door. "There's a lot of them..." * Shane fingers his gun held behind his back. Ellena: (m) I could summon Stoldark... Watcher: (w) Maybe we can negotiate. Shane: (m)...if it'd work *closes his eyes* then do it. >> Starling lifts his gun and blasts one of the bandits to oblivion in a searing beam of power. Just like that. * Joseph looks at the Watcher. "Shut up you pansy ass." Ellena: ...Or...not...? O_o * Allen goes goggle-eyed. Wild Bill: H...hey! Starling: I don't like you. --Combat!-- Enemy Front: 8 Bandits Enemy Back: Wild Bill Ally Front: Starling, Hikaru, Joseph, Watcher Ally Back: Allen, Ellena, Neydisa Inside Rider: Shane * Neydisa looks to Shane. "What are you planning?" Shane: Still do it! Allen: That's some ARM... Shane: Flood them... Flood them out. * Ellena nods. Neydisa: A... flood? * Shane takes aim. Watcher: Oh, drat. * Neydisa takes out her katars hastily, her finegrs brushing the water Rune. Shane: Yes... it's a bit of a channel here... A flood'd be directed... >> Watcher fumbles through his belongings to find a pair of granny glasses, which he pushes onto his nose. Ellena: Let me gather my reserves first...I have to make myself strong. Neydisa: I can help with a flood... Watcher: Maybe we can run! * Shane gives Watcher a dry look. Joseph: I thought I told you to shut up. Shane: Time to earn your ride, Watcher. Watcher: ...bleh. Okay, hang on, hang on. * Shane takes aim on Wild Bill. Shane uses Backfire on Wild Bill! * Shane then taunts the hick. Shane: Wild Bill, eh? Sounds like a redneck if I'd ever heard one... Starling fires the Thunderbird! >> Starling moves the gun to point at the next bandit and fires another white-hot ray of energy. 1818 damage! Bandit A is obliterated! Neydisa charges! Force+1! Wild Bill uses the Big Gun on Starling! Backfire! The Big Gun misfires and explodes! Shane: Yup. Definitly a hick. 438 damage! Hikaru: ... * Neydisa blinks. "What did you do, Shane?" Wild Bill: H...hey! Now I'm pissed! Hikaru: Idiots. That's why people shouldn't use guns. Shane: Oh... nothing... Hikaru: Swords are much more reliable. ^_^ Shane: You should take better care of your sidearm, bo-ah! >> Starling grunts. Watcher attacks Bandit B! >> Watcher whips out an unfinished wodden cane with a little rock stuck on the top and rushes awkwardly at the bandits. Watcher: Haaa! 6! (6) Hikaru: ... Hikaru: Why'd you guys bring him along...? * Shane's amazed at the odd man. Joseph: This should be amusing. Shane: I didn't think he'd actually... Watcher: ...see, I TOLD you we should have run. * Joseph is *really* considering beating the crap out of Watcher. Wild Bill: Hah hah! Get out of here, you fairy! Joseph attacks Bandit B! Neydisa: Too late now... we don't have much choice. * Joseph dashes at the bandit, spins his staff and smacks him twice. >> The first blow connects, but the second swishes through empty air. 53! Miss! (53) Bandit B fires the Big Gun at Joseph! Bandit B: Bastard...let's see what you think of this! Joseph: Bring it on... 113 damage! Joseph gains a level of force! Neydisa: Joseph, be careful! Bandit C fires the Big Gun at Joseph! Miss! * Joseph winces then returns to his battle stace. Bandits D, E and F fire the Big Gun at Starling! >> Starling is blasted with a barrage of gunfire, stumbling back several steps. Miss! 85! Miss! Bandit H attacks Hikaru! * Hikaru says nothing. >> One of the Bandits darts forward nimbly, the blade of a long knife glinting in the moonlight. * Hikaru pays attention to the knife, attempting to parry it at the right moment. 28! 24! (52) Bandit G fires the Big Gun at Shane! The bullet ricochets off the Rider's iron skin, leaving a deep dent! Miss! Starling: ...you are so dead. Ellena charges! Force+1! * Shane's amazed at the number of words Starling's uttering. Hikaru charges! Force+2! * Hikaru charges, growling. Allen charges! Force+1! * Allen prepares... Round 2! Wild Bill hoots. "Come on boys, this party's just starting!" >> Another bandit leaps out of the shadows! Bandit A joins the fight! Hikaru: Heh...don't you know it, billabong. Hikaru uses Strength Flash! Strength +2 levels this round! Shake uses Backfire on Wild Bill! * Hikaru holds out his sword in ye olde typical Fast Draw manner, channeling energy into it until it glows black... Hikaru: Power of the heavens... Ikioi no hadou! Starling fires the Thunderbird at Wild Bill. Starling: ...hmph. 1361 damage! >> Wild Bill stumbles, nearly falling off the rockpile. "Whoo! Holy shit!" Wild Bill: Get that one, boys! I want his gun! * Neydisa considers a course of action, gathering her strength. "Ellena, are you trying what I think?" Ellena: Yeah... Actually, Neydisa...I think I'm going to try something besides Stoldark... Neydisa: Lucadia would aid you with her waters... Watcher moves to the back row! Watcher: I'll just...uh...stand back here and fight. Neydisa charges! Force+1! * Ellena nods. "That's what I was going to try...You're not offended at all, right?" Neydisa: No, not at all! I'm just not fit to do it back here... Joseph Locks On the Cormorant and shoots Wild Bill! * Joseph draws the Cormorant and activates a target cursor on Wild Bill's chest. Then of course he fires. 60 damage! * Ellena nods, and concentrates. Wild Bill: Hah! You call that an ARM, boy? * Hikaru hmphs. "Overcompensation's more like it..." * Joseph says nothing. Wild Bill: Let's give these upstarts a 21-gun salute! >> The bandits all simultaneously whip out rifles and tear into Starling. Shane: .oO{ C'mon... try it again, Billy... } Miss! Miss! Miss! Miss! 78! 86! 83! 88! (335) >> Starling reels from multiple bulletwounds, falling to one knee and breathing heavily. Starling gains a level of force! Neydisa: That man is amazing... we have to cover him somehow, though. Hurry Ellena! Wild Bill uses his delayed action! Wild Bill uses the Enygmachine on himself! Regains 113 HP! Ellena custom-summons Lucadia! >> The ground in front of the party swirls into a pool of quicksand, and an enormous, slender draconic head emerges, fixing the bandits in its watery eyes. * Ellena raises her hand high! "Mistress of the sea, drown these foes in your fury!" Wild Bill: Whassat? Kill it! * Neydisa lowers her head a little, and tries to help Ellena's supplication of the Guardian. * Shane goes still. * Shane looks up, ponderously... >> Suddenly the head jerks forward and a torrent of water gushes forth from it! The entire enemy party is submerged; in a few moments the water vanishes as if it was never there, leaving the rock pile scattered and the bandits splayed all over the place. Wild Bill is still where he was, though. He stands up, flicks the water out of his hat, and growls. "You're so dead now, bastards!" The enemy front row is swept away! Shane: Wha... * Shane looks confused. * Ellena nods her head in a rare show of gutsiness. "That's what you get at shooting at my friends...!" Hikaru: ... * Neydisa prays softly. "The tides of victory turn swiftly, like the stormy oceans... thank you." * Shane looks at Ellena dumbfounded. * Hikaru sweatdrops. "Good job, 'Lena...but next time, leave some for me, okay?" Hikaru does nothing! Allen summons Nua Shakks! * Allen pours his spirit into the Thunder Rune. "Let's hope this works like this is supposed to... Nua Shakks, show them the rage of the skies!" * Neydisa looks at Ellena, a little sadly, but then it turns to a proud smile. >> Clouds form above, with thunder rolling like the roar of a lion...a vague face forms in the clouds, and a crackling ray of light blasts the earth below from its mouth. * Shane looks up at the summoning distortion with anticipation this time... but is struck with emotionlessness. 71 damage! Allen: Thank you, Guardian! * Allen bows. * Ellena smiles at Allen. Round 3! Everyone gains a level of force! Neydisa is Condition Green. Wild Bill rotates to the front row! >> Starling forces himself to his feet, snarling. Bandit A joins the fight! * Neydisa takes a step back. "...I can help too..." * Hikaru snarls. "Let's try this again..." * Shane surveys the battle coldly from his vantage. * Shane looks down at his hand ponderously. Wild Bill defends! Hikaru uses Strength Flash! Str+2 levels this turn! Ellena: . o O ( My reserves may be enough...but I'll probably have to talk myself out of this one... Oh well...it was bound to come up sooner or later... ) * Ellena pulls a small, blue bauble like object from her satchel. Wild Bill: Come on boys, hop to it! Not gonna let a little water in your boots slow ya down, are ya? Starling points the gun at Bill, grits his teeth, digs in his heels, and pulls the trigger. The air crackles ominously, and the scent of ozone fills the pass. Starling uses Ultra Shot to fire the Thunderbird at Wild Bill! >> A horrifyingly enormous blast of light sears through the empty night...the sound is like a torrent of water rushing by, and the heat can be felt from a distance. 1311 damage! * Shane's dazed. Watcher uses Tempus Fugit! Gains an extra action next round! Neydisa summons Stoldark! * Neydisa pulls out the Water Rune, and raises it high. "Rise up from the flowing waters at our feet, and show all the mystery of the World Turtle! Stoldark, finish this!" Bandit A takes 74 damage! Wild Bill takes 23 damage! * Ellena holds the bauble like object to her chest, and it begins to glow gently. * Shane looks upon the guardian with dispassion. Joseph uses Beatdown on Wild Bill! * Joseph dashes at Wild Bill with his staff in front of him; using the staff he hits Wild Bill in the key joints and pressure points of the body. Miss! Bandit A uses the Big Gun on Starling! 84! Starling is KO'd! >> Starling drops to one knee, then slowly falls on his chest. Bandits B, C and D join the back row of combat! 5 bandits remain stunned! * Neydisa replaces the rune, and pants a bit. "I wasn't powerful enough..." Ellena attacks Wild Bill! * Shane yells, coldly, "I'll revive Starling." Hikaru: ...Whatever. * Ellena points the bauble to Wild Bill, and it emits a strange hum as it glows brightly and fires a beam of searing light at Wild Bill's chest! 10 damage! * Shane turns towards Ellena calmly. Ellena: ...That wasn't very good... * Ellena shakes her bauble. "Work, you silly thing!" Wild Bill: You guys...you guys are gonna pay! * Hikaru snarls. Hikaru: Shut up. Hikaru uses Fenrir Blade on Wild Bill! Hikaru: 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 Wild Bill through with the now powerfully charged sword! 36 damage! * Hikaru beats on Wild Bill's head. "C'mon, die already!" * Hikaru goes back to the party, aggravated. >> Bill deftly parries the blows. Allen defends! Just now, since he didn't say he had a preemptive! Allen uses Attack Roulette on Wild Bill! * Allen throws two elements together and does all the equations on the fly. "Here we go..." >> A swirl of air goes shooting off into the wild blue yonder! * Allen frowns. Allen: That didn't go so well... Shane casts Heal on Joseph! Joseph regains 160 HP! Healed to full! * Joseph nods at Shane. Round 4! Bandit E joins the fight! * Shane looks blankly back. Watcher: Okay...erm...everybody ready? Joseph: For you to look like an ass again...all right. Watcher: You're so mean. Joseph: ... * Ellena puts the bauble away and concentrates. Neydisa: I'm trying... Neydisa: Someone help Starling! We're going to be overrun... Neydisa summons Stoldark! Wild Bill takes 40 damage! Bandits A through E take 86 damage each! >> Watcher waves his arms around. "Hazenatsumodreksuledringoafiradel!" >> All allies gain an extra action per round until round 9! Hikaru: ... Hikaru: That's my line... Shane: ( a little too calmly) Ellena... Can you wipe them out again. * Neydisa blinks. "What sort of..." Watcher: Hah! * Ellena looks at Shane, a bit weirded out. "I...can try...but I used up all my power...I have to..." Joseph: Hmm...not so useless after all. Shane: You will have more shortly. * Ellena blinks. Watcher's second action! Watcher uses Freeze Frame on Bandit E! Bandit E is frozen in time until round 9! Watcher: Well, that's it for me. I'm gonna go lie down in the car. Joseph throws a Venom Dart at Wild Bill! * Joseph pulls out the Venom Dart he found and throws it at Wild Bill. 25 damage! Wild Bill is Vile Poisoned! Neydisa: Shane... maybe you were wrong about him... * Shane looks dispassionatly at Neydisa. Bandit A uses the Big Gun on Shane! >> Shane doesn't get a chance to answer as he's blasted. 267! Shane is KO'd! Ellena: Shane! O_o Bandits B, C and D move to the front row! Wild Bill moves to the back row! Bandit E is frozen in time! Ellena meditates! Failure! * Ellena sighs. "I...I..." * Shane bleeds. Hikaru throws a Ninja Dart at Wild Bill! Hikaru: Eat this! 59 damage! Allen casts Revive on Starling! Starling is revived with 53 HP! >> Starling pushes himself to his feet, not even stopping to look around before rejoining the battle. "Thanks." Allen: No problem. Round 5! Wild Bill: Now it's time for the smackdown! You boys are coyote meat! Ellena: Just...just...Just shut up! >> Wild Bill drops two rounds into his gun and pumps them into the chamber. * Ellena fumbles through her pack, looking at Shane's prone form. "I'll help you in a moment...hang on!" * Shane neither hears nor responds. Starling uses an ARM Clip to reload the Thunderbird! Starling fires the Thunderbird at Wild Bill! 1124 damage to Wild Bill! >> Wild Bill falls to one knee, cradling his own gun. "You're...dead!" * Neydisa rummages in a sleeve of her shirt for something. "If I have one more..." Neydisa charges! Force+1! Neydisa delays her second action! Joseph charges! Force+1! * Joseph focuses his mind... Joseph locks on the Machine Gun and shoots Wild Bill! * Joseph then draws the Machine Gun and activates the target cursor over Wild Bill. "Try this on..." He pulls the trigger and the machine gun fires letting out a noise which is rather loud. 62! 69! 69! (200) Wild Bill locks on and fires the Big Gun at Starling! Ellena: Oh no...! Miss! >> The rock face next to Starling explodes, showering him in dust and chips of stone. Allen: Phew! Wild Bill takes 1250 damage from poison! >> Bill falls to one knee, panting. Bandits A through D blast the hell out of Starling! Miss! 85! 82! 96! Starling survives with 1 HP! >> Starling is knocked back against the rocks. He spits blood and stands up again. Ellena revives Shane with 32 HP! Ellena charges! Force+1! * Shane coughs up blood, and sits up. * Neydisa gets a worried expression as she continues to look for her carrot. "Guardians... got it!" Ellena: Shane...! * Shane hangs half-out of the truck, panting. Shane: Ell...ena? Neydisa uses Mystic to use a Magic Carrot on the ally back row! The ally back row regains 10 MP! * Neydisa pulls out a Magic Carrot and starts chanting softly, as it glows with a soft sea-green light. "Mundane to magical, ordinary to extraordinary... show your hidden might to all... Mystic!" Shane: What happ... * Ellena hugs him! "You're okay!" Hikaru uses Fenrir Blade on Wild Bill! Miss! * Shane cringes under the hug... * Ellena blinks, and then steps back. "Ah...ah...sorry..." Shane: Aah... It's okay... did I get shot? Hikaru uses Concussion Slash on Wild Bill! Ellena: Yeah... 24 damage! Wild Bill is confused! * Shane tries standing up... * Hikaru sheathes his sword. "Good, at least that worked..." Shane: Thank you... * Shane smiles weakly. Wild Bill: Whoa...lookit all them purty angels... Neydisa: Shane, are you alright? >> Wild Bill sways. * Ellena smiles back. "It's nothing..." * Hikaru looks back. "'Lena, don't hug him to death now." Allen charges! Force+1! Ellena: I didn't mean to hurt him, 'Karu...I got carried away... * Allen prepares... Shane: Can you... do your trick again? Allen Wide Casts Enlighten on the back row! Ellena: Trick? * Allen brings together Wing and Muse and a soft glow surrounds the back row of allies. "May the calm winds and deep blue ocean bring you enlightenment..." Hikaru: (m) I'll say. Watcher uses his delayed actions! Ellena: You mean summon Lucadia? Shane: Summoning the pretty one. * Shane nods. Watcher attempts to withdraw! Failure! >> Watcher takes a step towards the vehicle, only to nearly trip on an outcropping and have to wave his arms to regain his balance. Ellena: I'm not sure I have the power... But I might be able to do something else instead. Watcher: Waahh...blech. This is so undignified. Watcher withdraws! Round 6! Everyone gains a level of force! Starling Locks On the Thunderbird and shoots Wild Bill. >> Starling blasts the hell out of Wild Bill. Starling uses Wild Blast on the Thunderbird and shoots Wild Bill. 2623 damagde! Wild Bill is knocked back ten feet and lies there, charred and smoking. Bandit C: Boss! Ellena: Give it up! Don't make us hurt you all anymore! >> The Bandits grab Wild Bill and withdraw! Victory! Got 1000 gella each! Got 120 EXP! Got Enygmachine! Ellena: ...Good. ^_^ * Shane smiles as they leave, leans against the side of the truck, and coughs up a little more blood. Hikaru: Shane! Ellena: Shane...Are you okay? * Hikaru hands Shane a Heal Berry. "Here..." * Shane waves Hikaru back. "I'll be fine..." * Neydisa lets go a sigh of relief. "It's over..." * Joseph picks up this machine thing. * Shane accepts the berry, with a smile. >> It's a weird, square box with glowing lights. Neydisa: Is everyone ok? Shane... Starling? * Shane coughs. Shane: Joseph... Bring that here... * Joseph walks up to Shane and attempts to activate it. >> Joseph isn't yet synchronized with the machine. Shane: Can someone heal... Starling? Allen: I'll do it. * Shane nods at allen. * Allen walks up to Starling and performs the spell... Starling: ...I'm fine. * Shane looks the machine over. Shane: May I see it? Joseph: Hey, this.....is an ARM isn't it? >> The machine is an ARM; its use is difficult to determine, but it seems to emit a beam of some sort. Hikaru: I can't do ARMs, guys...sorry. * Ellena blinks. "Can I see that after you, Shane?" >> Starling pulls a roll of bandages from a pouch on his belt, takes off his shirt, and starts to wrap the bandages tightly around his waist. * Joseph hands the machine to Shane. "You can look at it, but it's mine." Shane: Fine by me... Allen: Are you sure you don't want me to heal you with magic, Mister Starling? * Neydisa catches her breath. "Where did Watcher go?" >> Allen goes through the slow process of healing the wounded...the night is as quiet as it was loud moments before. * Shane's starting to feel better. * Ellena sighs, as her request goes largely unheard. * Joseph takes the Enygmachine back and hands it to Ellena. "Like I said......it's mine." * Hikaru looks at Ellena. "Eh?" * Ellena blinks, and holds the machine in her hands, wondering if it'll do something. * Shane watches this transaction. >> Starling puts his hole-riddled shirt back on and heads towards his enormous vehicular ARM. "Pass outpost's nearby." * Neydisa would help Starling, but he seems to be fine, so she waits for the group by the Rider, wodnering what Ellena's doing. Shane: Is the rockslide cleared? Ellena: Hmm...? I wonder if this thing works...Shouldn't it be glowing or something? >> In the distance, a coyote howls at the gibbous moon. * Allen finishes his rounds of healing and gets back on the vehicle to take a short nap. >> Watcher is already sleeping, his top-hat pulled over his eyes. Allen: maajicc may'gmee shleepy... g'nyyte... * Allen goes unconscious. * Neydisa notes Watcher, and sighs. ".....what a strange guy." She nods to Allen. "Good night." * Hikaru hmms. "You use ARMs, 'Lena?" Ellena: This...is an ARM? Ellena: N...No...I don't think...but... * Joseph looks at Ellena. "Okay, you've looked at it. Give it back." Allen: Z z z . . . Hikaru: They said it was... *indicating Joseph and Shane* * Shane nods, still watching the exchange curiously. * Ellena concentrates, as the machine hums a bit... Ellena: Ah-! What did I do?! O_o * Shane's eyes widen. Neydisa: Maybe you should fiddle with that back in the... huh? >> Ellena uses the Enygmachine! Regains full HP. * Hikaru raises an eyebrow. "Damn straight! What'd you do?" Hikaru: Whoa... Joseph: Did you just synch with it? I told you it was mine. * Shane watches intently, saying nothing,. * Ellena pales. "Ah...I...I don't know..." Starling: We're going. Hikaru: ...Kay... * Hikaru climbs into the car-ARM. * Ellena almost looks like she wants to run... * Shane looks at Ellena curiously. Joseph: Give it back now. * Shane offers Ellena an arm up. * Ellena numbly takes Shane's arm, and climbs into the car-ARM. * Shane whispers to her, "Are you okay?" Joseph: Hey! I said give it back... * Joseph mumbles... Ellena: ...I...I don't know... Hikaru: El, are you alright? Ellena: Let's just go...Please? Shane: Did you just... synch with the ARM? Hikaru: ...Yeah... let's go. Ellena: ...I'm not sure, Shane... Hikaru: Does it matter, Shane? Whatever she did scared the fuck out of her... Joseph: ............give it back damnit! Watcher: Snrzlxzzzz * Shane glares at Joe vehemently. * Hikaru glares at Joe vehemently. * Joseph ignores the two, looking at Ellena. * Ellena doesn't glare at Joe. She looks spooked and...ashamed? * Shane turns back to Ellena... Neydisa: Ellena... Shane: Do you want to lay down? Ellena: Y...yeah. * Neydisa makes room for her on the bench. Shane: Here... use my bedroll. I can't sleep now, anyways... * Hikaru looks at Ellena. "It'll be alright, 'Lena... Whatever happened was just a...coincidence, right?" Ellena: R...Right. Of course...Right. * Joseph draws the Cormorant. "Give it back to me now." * Hikaru whaps Joseph with the hilt of his sword. "LAY OFF, ASSHOLE!" * Ellena flinches away from Joseph's gun! * Shane pulls his gun. * Joseph doesn't move...still looking at Ellena. Neydisa: Joseph... give her a minute to recover! Something happened... Shane: .oO{ Why couldn't've I learned a sleep spell... } >> Starling pulls out the Thunderbird and points it behind him without looking. "Take it outside." Joseph: I don't care. I'm not letting her synch with it. Ellena: H...Here...Just...just take it...take that evil thing! * Shane holsters his gun. * Joseph takes the machine and puts away the Cormorant. * Hikaru sheathes his sword. "Fine, sorry, Starling." * Ellena hands Joseph the ARM, looking like she wants to cry. "Just take it!" Hikaru: 'Lena... >> Starling shoves the gun into its holster without saying another word. * Shane looks at Ellena, sadly. Allen: Z z z . . . Shane: Ell...? * Hikaru looks at Ellena, concerned and worried. * Ellena suddenly bursts into tears. Shane: Ell... are you okay? Hikaru: 'Lena! Neydisa: Ellena, we'll talk about it on the way... we shouldn't stay here long. >> Starling touches the glass panel on the dashboard, and the Rider rumbles to life, grinding down the mountain path and into the night. >> Gradually, the area becomes quiet again. Bandit E is unfrozen! Bandit E: ...uh...