Session Start: Fri Jan 04 18:09:56 2002 *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 12.0: Call of the Sea | Location: The Sweet Revenge, Narrow Sea, late morning, June 21 | Session Start' ==Session Start== The sun is very high in the sky, and the Sweet Revenge sits still in the water as the women pirates leap and scramble from ship to ship, investigating their captured ship and restoring the passenger ship to order so it can set sail again. Many sing loud, raucous songs as they work. The eight rescued passengers are free to wander the decks as they please, or to sleep late....most notably, Feray and Nathan are still unconscious on the floor of the galley. The ship's crew had a good laugh early that morning and left them alone. ^_~ * Erellisae looks out over the side of the boat, peering into the water. :) * Dylan winces at the singing, looking out across the sea Lily hums as she paces this way and that across the ship, overseeing the transfer of cargo and occasionally shouting out orders. She smiles at Erellisae as she passes. * Mitsuo whistles and heads outside, breathing in the sea air. ^^ * Erellisae waves a little... energetically back, still looking rather sparkly-eyed. * Mikari rolls her eyes as she steps over Nathan and Feray again, wondering how long they'll be out for. Lily simply chuckles, muttering something about Erellisae reminding her of another overeager teenager. * Rion is enjoying the view up the in Crow's Nest, high above the rest of the ship. * * Mitsuo waves to Erel as he passes. :) Hey, Mits! :D Hey Erel! How're you this morning? After a bit, she takes a break and sinks to a seat on the deck, leaning against the railing. [Lily] Well....we're almost done checking the cargo. Whew. Maybe we'll have a feast tonight! * Dylan rolls his eyes, watching the azure horizon. A little sleepy... not quite used to the sea. ^^; Yeah... ^^; I used to be sick when I first went on boats. * Erellisae looks a little green as a wave rocks the boat, and clings back to the side. ^^;; * Mitsuo frowns a bit. :/ Uh...er...Did you try squeezing one of your wrists? It's a pressure point. It's supposed to help with nausea. * Erellisae blinks, then looks at Mitsuo, then blinks again. "...uh.. no..?" ^^; Uh... I heard it's good'ta eat ginger. Sounds pretty nasty t'me, but... Try it. I found it works pretty well for me. ^^; Lily looks over at Mikari, Mitsuo, and Erellisae. [Lily] Know where the rest of your friends are? I thought you might be interested in helping us go through some of the pirates' cargo. From what I hear, my crew found some...interesting items. *Frowns slightly* * Erellisae prods at her wrist, looking unsure. ^^; Oh? Well, I guess I wouldn't mind looking. I wanna see! :D * Jalanda appears from below decks after a short while, stretching her arms a bit as she comes into the open air of the deck. "Yes, I too am interested in this." Interesting items... hmm. * Dylan calls from the next ship, where he was standing.. What's up ? * Mikari replies to Dylan. "Not Feray and Nathan yet, at any rate!" * Rion calls down. * I'm up! * Jalanda lowers her arms, her clean robe blowing in a slight breeze, and she raises her hooded head to look towards the crow's nest and Rion. * Dylan shakes his head, and starts to wander over to everyone (via planks and stuff) * Erellisae turns to wave at Rion, a gust of wind making her hair make a valiant attempt to eat Mitsuo's head as she does. Lily nods. [Lily] Great. *waves to acknowledge Rion and smiles at the others* My crew should be bringing it aboard soon....ahh! *Just then, Milda trudges up, carrying five large barrels without help. :P * * Rion grins and waves. * ^^ * Mitsuo is haired O_o...Is that a word? Do you need a hand with that, Aunty? * Erellisae blinks, then runs across to Milda, slightly wobbling with the rock of the boat, to peer at the barrels. :D [Milda] Mornin', youngsters! *Grins and waves, transferring all of the barrels to one hand so she can do so.* Gonna help me sort through this 'ere mess? *She plunks the barrels down on the deck and begins to pry the lid off of one.* « >> Erel's hair gets in the helmsman's face! The ship crashes into an iceburg!! » I'll see what I can do to help, Miss Milda. ^^ Milda laughs. [Milda] Careful there, don't wanna getcher face in the way so I accidentally fling a barrel lid in it! * Erellisae nods, and waits for Milda to open the barrel. * Jalanda lowers her gaze, quietly marvelling at the display of strength. "I'll be certain not to." Milda prises the lid off of the barrel, then moves on to the next, allowing the others to start sifting through its contents. [Milda] Most of the barrels were marked...food supplies, goods, etc. But these ones, we can't figger out what's in 'em...unmarked and all. Milda chuckles to Jalanda. * Mikari stands alongside Jalanda and nods along with the thought, chewing on some jerky. * Dylan grabs a ship tool from deck and starts to pry open a barrel.. * Mitsuo hmms, and begins to shift through some of the stolen goods. * Erellisae peers down into the newly-opened barrels, poking around inside. :D * Jalanda titls her head to regard Mikari's presence, then inspects the barrels a bit closer. Nggh.. bit stiff.. Erellisae finds a few small wooden cases with locks on them, sitting on top of the other contents... * Mikari glances at Jalanda, but suddenly sees that the items are being revealed and quickly moves up with the others to make sure she gets a good look * Erellisae peers at the locks, before trying to zap them with little lightning bolts, and failing miserably. She calls up to Rion, "Rioon! We need your help!" ^_^ Jalanda rummages through the barrels and comes across a few rolled up old maps, crinkled with age. * Mitsuo 's eyes boggle. O_o Oh wow...they STOLE lederhosen? O_o Why? * Rion leaps off the nest, plummeting downwards! * * Mitsuo throws the offending article of clothing over the side of the ship! Hmm... this may prove of interest to you, Dylan... *unrolls one very carefully* Lily snickers. [Lily] Well, Gantz and his cronies never did have much taste... * Rion grabs onto some rigging, swinnging down, slowing his decent, and dropping do the deck. * What's up, Chickie-boo? Some of the women pirates clap and whistle for Rion's landing. ^_^ * Rion grins. * * Mitsuo sweatdrops and rummages through some more promising stuff. ^^; * Erellisae blinks, and sweatdrops as Rion plummets, readying a Wind sp--... she hmphs. "Showoff. I can't open these locks." ^^ * Dylan finally gets the lid off a barrel, puts it to one side, and goes to examine the maps. * Rion cracks his knuckles.. * Well, then.. shall we let the master get to his work? * Mikari notes a bottle amidst the goods. "They stole THAT year??? Damn, yer right they've got no taste..." * Rion sets to work dealing with the pesky and inconveniencing lock. * And I don't WANNA imagine Gantz in tights, thankya. >.< He's a manly man in tights. ^_- * Erellisae nods, and watches Rion work. Ya think so, eh Mitsuo? ^_~ Milda finishes opening the barrels and leans over among the others to help them sort through the stuff. She tosses various odd trinkets out on the deck, uninterested...though some of them appear quite old. And he's- * Mitsuo blinks, trailing off. Rion easily picks the lock on the first wooden chest. Inside is a stack of papers... There ya go, kiddo.. * Jalanda hands several of the maps to Dylan as she looks over one in particular. * Mikari reflexively gives the odd trinkets a more careful look as they get tossed off, to make sure they don't have some hidden value Milda doesn't recognize. * Rion looks around, as though bothered by something. * * Mitsuo suddenly turns towards the discarded items as well, fingering them and examining them. * Erellisae nods. "Thanks!" She starts digging through the papers, before noting something. "Hey! Rion! C'mon, there's more!" :D Most of the papers are signed by Gantz; they seem to be orders for repairs and supplies, but there is also the occasional map and what appear to be reports of some sort... * Rion blinks. * One sec, Erel.. * Rion takes a careful look around.. * Mikari notices that the various trinkets look extremely old....perhaps antiques or even ancient artifacts, some of them. A few seem to be art pieces. Milda blinks at Rion. [Milda] 'Ey kid, what's wrong? * Erellisae rifles through the more interesting papers, pocketing the more interesting documents. :) * Mikari stands and lowers her brow in observation. She assesses if any of them would be valuable or useful enough to be worth her time and pack space. * Mitsuo is still rummaging through the goods, but his expression seems a touch far off, as if in deep thought. I, uh.. I dunno.. just a niggling feeling is all. * Mitsuo glances in Milda's direction. * Jalanda looks up from the papers. "Rion...?" Lily glances at some of the items Mikari is inspecting. She whistles. [Lily] Hmmm....those are very old. * Rion slowly surveys things, trying to find the unseen source of this feeling. * * Dylan pulls out a map case and carefully places the maps inside it * Rion takes a tentative step towards where Milda is.. * Hmm.. * Mitsuo also stands up, and takes a step towards Milda, "Uh...er..." * Erellisae blinks, and wonders what everyone's worried about, cocking her head. * Mikari puts the two items she is looking at down for a moment and looks over to Rion's place to see what he is doing, trying to weigh what is important Milda stares at both of them. [Milda] Er....what? ^^;; What's with you kids? Uh...! I mean... ^^; It's just... * Jalanda replaces the map into Dylan's care and looks in his direction fully, then at Milda scutenizingly... * Dylan raises an eyebrow. * Rion raises his hands. * I.. vant to suck your blood! Blah! Blah! Hmm? * Rion grins and laughs, shaking his head. * I dunno, just this weird feeling. * Erellisae blinks, then sweatdrops. "Rion..." . o O ( ...Again? ) * Jalanda blinks at Rion, but does not dismiss the thought of something going on. * Mitsuo blinks a few times dazedly, "Sorry, I just felt something weird coming from you. I was mistaken, I think. ^^;" * Mikari raises an eyebrow and looks annoyed at this horseplay and confusion. Milda blinks suddenly. [Milda] Gack! *She suddenly starts rummaging around in her bikini top, then pulls out a very small glass jar, tied on a string and hung around her neck. She stares at it carefully. [Milda] What'd you kids do? All of a sudden it jus' started burnin'... Huh? O_o What'd I do? I didn't do anything! Burnin'? Ah... so this would be the source of the unease. What...is that Milda? Milda shakes the bottle at them. A very faint pulse of green comes from it. [Milda] Well, ya started starin' at me, and all of a sudden this thing got real hot. * Rion wanders over to have a look see. * Maybe 'at was your dinner las'night, Milda. * Mitsuo follows Rion to also have a look. ^^; Green? Inside the tiny glass bottle is a little piece of stone, traced with bits of green light. * Erellisae blinks, and notes the small vial, raising an eyebrow, but turns back to her shuffling through papers. :D * Jalanda raises an eyebrow, and takes a few steps closer. Still got that stone, Mitsuo? Yeah... * Mitsuo rummages through his pack, and pulls it out, "Right here..." Milda chuckles at Mikari. [Milda] Nah, I only 'ad five plates o' chili....that couldn't've been it. Don't suppose I could see that one there, could I, miss Milda? * Mikari seems to consider this amount of spices thoughtfully, then wholeheartedly agrees with Milda that that couldn't have been it. ^^ What 'zactly is that bottle, Milda? Milda shrugs. [Milda] Sure. *she takes the bottle from around her neck and hands it to Rion, then peers at what Mitsuo is doing... * Rion turns the jar over in his hands, examining the small rock inside. * It...looks similar... Hmm... the resonance... it is possible it is the same. *looks in Mitsuo's direction at his stone* Milda turns to Mikari and shrugs. [Milda] Dunno. I found it a couple of years ago while I was traveling through the Zil Desert...just a bit o' nuthin', really, a little stone shard jus' sitting in the sand near my campsite one night, looking all green and silver in the starlight. Thought it was pretty, so I kept it for a good luck charm. Wanna see if they fit together or somethin', Mitsy? Milda peers at Mitsuo. [Milda] Whassat, kid? You got one too? Yeah...Syri found it for me on Gantz's boat. * Mikari lowers her brow and considers this. "Ya keep it with you all th'time now?..." * Mitsuo looks to Rion, "Why not? Let's see..." [Milda] Well, don't that just beat all...and yep, I do, missy. *Nodding to Mikari* * Rion opens the jar, and empties the small stone into his hand. * The stone sits in Rion's hand, glowing faintly green. It's slightly warm to the touch. * Erellisae is peering round people now, trying to get a better look. "What's all the commotion? Huh? Huh?" Uhh... I'd think there'd be a better reason 'n that t'keep something with ya at all times. ^^; But then, maybe you're different from me. I don't wear or carry much on me. ... Er.... scratch 'at. How strange... Milda shrugs. [Milda] Well, I mean, I take it off to bathe, and all. :P But when ya travel as much as I do, ya gotta have a good luck charm, ya know? Even if it don't mean nuthin'. * Mikari looks at Milda's battle bikini and decides against that idea Milda snickers and poses. * Erellisae hops up and down on one leg behind people, trying to see. ;_; * Jalanda walks between Rion and Mitsuo and stands between them, trying to see if the energy is the same. Erellisae knocks over one of the barrels as she jumps. @_@ A few thick glass jars clink as they tumble onto the deck. * Erellisae acks, and trips slightly, trying not to break anything. ^^; * Rion absently wanders around Jalanda to reach Mitsuo to test the theory of the fitting stone pieces. * * Dylan grabs from the jars before they roll off. Gah! One of the jars cracks slightly, then begins to hiss! O_o Ermm. guys... * Jalanda opens her mouth to tell Rion to wait, but it promptly cut off by an unnerving hiss. ^^; Huh..? * Mitsuo looks over to the hissing noise. * Erellisae peers at her accidental discovery, having temporarily forgotten the mystery of Rion and Mitsuo. She blinks at the hissing jar, moving back a bit. ^^;; "Um..." The bottle lying on the deck bubbles a bit, filled with greenish black liquid that hisses as the air gets in through the crack. ...! * Erellisae steps back rather far, sweatdropping. "Um... sorry...?" ^^;; ...Wait a second... Any ideas? I could throw a fireball at it? ^^; * Mitsuo bends down so he can get a closer look at the liquid, but not actually breathe it in or touch it. * Mikari looks surpised and jumps back slightly, watching it carefully. Lily stands, frowning, and wanders over to join the group. What is it..? Acid? * Mikari frowns. Erel, uh, I would NOT recommend that.... After a moment's glance, she pulls out some heavy leather gloves and starts to put them on. [Lily] No, not acid...poison. *Points to a small label with a skull on it* ...I knew it. Well, at least it's not gonna eat through the deck n'stuff and sink the ship now. * Jalanda looks at the bubbling from where she stands. "So this was where the answer lay." That woulda sucked. * Erellisae sweatdrops. ^^; * Rion grins. * * Mitsuo stands back up, so he doesn't breathe in the fumes, "Well...we know where they got the poison from, at least." Lily gingerly picks up the cracked bottle and ponders, then wraps it in a spare piece of hide, drops it inside one of the empty barrels and reseals it quickly. * Dylan grabs the other jars, and puts them upright so they don't roll off. Lily nods to Mitsuo. [Lily] We've known for a while that the pirates were involved in smuggling some nasty stuff... [Lily] I'll take charge of the poison...we'll seal it up and hand it over to the authorities once we put into shore. Okay... * Jalanda nods... * Mikari sneers at no one in particular, presumably from intense frustration, an emotion Mikari does not do well with * Mitsuo then heads back to Rion, "Wanna test our theory now?" Poison... cowards. Milda pokes Mikari. [Milda] Somethin' wrong, kid? Cool down a bit, 'kay? *Grins, then turns to Rion* About that stone. You kin keep it if ya want. I don't need it, really. ^_^ * Rion holds up Milda's stone. * Anytime you're ready, bud. So one mystery is closed, but one remains. What of the stones? Let's do it then. * Mitsuo tries to uh...fit the two stones together. ^^; * Dylan rumages in a barrel Nothing happens. ^^; The stones continue to glow green, perhaps a tiny bit more strongly now, but that's really all. ^^; >> Dylan finds a revive potion! Keep it! :D Maybe it's like a jigsaw puzzle and you're missing a couple pieces. :) Well. That was anticlimatic. Well, at least they glow pretty-like. Uh. * Mitsuo takes his stone back. ^^; .......Er. Sorry. Not to happy dealing with people tryin' to kill me without doin' it to my face. Hmm.. Ms. Jalanda? * Jalanda scrutinizes the stones. "They are undoubtedly from the same whole..." Milda blinks, then nods knowingly. [Milda] Yeah, that can be irritatin'... I wanted them to fuse together in an explosion of light, or something. Like that time with the two halves of Mordan's Disc in the Vorenhald forest.. ..now that was cool. Huh? ^^; What? * Jalanda looks at Mitsuo a minute, but doesn't say anything more, distracted by Dylan. * Dylan hands Jalanda the potion Have you found something? * Erellisae blinkies, then shrugs. "Maybe you need more bits." :) Just remembering cool stuff s'all, Mitsy. I'm surprised you didn't know about Mordan's Disc. I believe you used one of these a little while ago.. ^^; Sorry...I never heard of it. * Jalanda nods. "Yes... but are you certain I should have this?" * Rion tsks. * So.. now what, then? Now the rest of those chests! :D * Mitsuo looks to the stolen goods, "...Maybe some more treasure hunting?" * Dylan shrugs Better than you not having it. ^^ * Dylan turns and rummages some more. * Jalanda accepts it, smiling a small bit. "Quite true. Thank you." * Mitsuo also rummages. Rummage rummage rummage. * Rion plucks Milda's stone out of Mitsuo's hand, and turns to Milda grinning. * You want this back, warrior-babe? Suddenly the deck shakes as one of the cargo crates being unloaded from the pirate ship is accidentally dropped with a loud THUD! Another falls into the water with a loud splash. Accusatory shouts come from the women unloading the pirate ship, and Lily sighs, going to straighten out the situation... * Erellisae baps Rion. "Rion...! This is /Milda!/ You don't call her 'warrior-babe'!" ^^; Milda chuckles. [Milda] Hey, I like warrior-babe just fine, kid! You bet I can, Chickie-boo! [Milda] And nah, you keep it. ^^ * Rion grins. * Sweeet... * Erellisae sighs, sweatdrops, and looks vaguely defeated. --; >> Mitsuo finds 35 G. ^^ Heh. If ya aren't gonna call her a warrior-babe, dunno what else you're gonna call her. ^_- * Mitsuo is rich! Well, okay no. * Dylan looks mildly disturbed.. Thanks, warrior-babe. Milda winks encouraginly at Erellisae. ....But not... chickie-boo. Okay, Chickie-boo.. what more treasure were you wantin' me to unlock. * Jalanda winces at the loud sound of the dropping crate. I'll split it with you, 95 or me, 5 for you. Sound fair? * Mikari rolls her eyes 9_9 There doesn't seem to be anything else of interest in the barrels, though two more chests still remain locked. * Erellisae shakes her head with a faintly exasperated sound, then points towards the other small locked chests she dug up. ^^; * Rion goes to unlock the chests. * * Jalanda looks over the side of the ship into the water. * Dylan watches Rion's deft hand movements. * Mikari looks at the 35 G. "How 'bout 35 for us, the rest for you. Deal?" ^_^ Uh... ^^: ....agh, what the hell was that loud crash!?! Don't you know some people are still sleeping!...... * Feray comes up onto deck, her eyes are bloodshot and she stumbles in the light. * Dylan turns to Feray Good Morning! ^^ * Feray pauses and sweatdrops. ...hey to you too. ^^; Uh... hi? ^^; We found Stuff! Come looky. :D Feray! ^_^ Nice t'see ya up before... well.... tomorrow. ^_^ Hey you. * Feray nods a little and staggers over to the group's find. So..fill me in.. ^^; I found money! ^^; Not a lot...but...Money! Whoo! Milda waves brightly to Feray. [Milda] Mornin' sunshine! Well, okay, it's early afternoon by now, but... *Shrugs* Mitsy there's a real treasure hunter now, yeah. Great, 'suo... ^^; The ship dips a little bit in the water as a wave hits it. ^_^ * Mitsuo sweatdrops. ^^; ...! Gnnnhh.. * Feray pales. ^^; * Mitsuo blinks a bit at Feray, "...Are you ill?" Lots papers. ^^ Seems Gantz was looking for something... doesn't say what. :/ * Erellisae shrugs. ^^ * Jalanda shakes her head once, then turns back around, regarding Feray. "You had quite the night with Nathan, I imagine." Phew.. geez.. I could get drunk off your breath.. * Rion swats at the air in front of him. * And you thought I was bad that one day.. Clouds drift lazily overhead, the sun dimming a bit as the wind picks up. It's still pleasant out, but getting a bit more chilly. * Mitsuo blinks several more times, "Oh." Hey! I beat him! ^^; * Mikari , having been close to the railing, gets hit with a good dose of wave unexpectedly, and stands there looking indignant under a mop of wet hair ¬_¬ At drinking, I mean! Where is he now? Still sleeping in the mess hall. ^^; Milda chuckles at Mikari's wet hair. ^^ [Milda] Mm. I like the new 'do, Mikari! * Mitsuo looks up to the sky, noticing the sudden chill. Oi, Rion, you got those chests open yet? * Mikari glares at Milda and throws her head back to get it out of her eyes, making no other attempt to look less silly. "...Thanks." * Feray breathes deep and recovers her composure, glancing at Erel. "Looking for something? Hmm.." I'm workin' on it.. I'm workin' on it.. Did you really win? Somehow I don't see the victory you sough in your eyes. Try to be careful, the wind is picking up. * Rion goes back to unlocking the remaining chests. * * Erellisae shrugs, and passes across collected scraps and bits and pieces of paperwork and charts to Feray. ^^ I'll be alright, Jal. ^^; The second chest pops open...revealing some very fine jewelry and precious stones. ^_^ ...! Wooow...! * Feray looks down at the assorted junk, chewing her bottom lip thoughtfully.. * Rion pours over the stuff, looking for the coolest things. * * Erellisae starts digging through it. :D [Milda] Hey there....some of that stuff's probably stolen, ya know. Ya might get a share, but if anyone can claim that jewelry, it's gonna go to its rightful owners. Just to warn ya. * Erellisae sweatdrops, and nods. ^^: Hmpf. Dull. * Mitsuo continues to stare up at the sky. * Rion roots around for anything exceptional before moving onto the next chest.. * The third chest, once opened, reveals a few small artifacts wrapped in silk. They appear very, very ancient, some depicting tiny carved scenes of Icarians and other ancient peoples... Heh, I'm fine. You can keep it. I'll find m'own "shinies." ^^ Interesting. Yeah, don't swipe anything.....that's always bad. ^^; Dunno about Erel though... *muses while watching her sparkle in general* * Rion examines the relics.. * The ship rocks as the sea gets more talkative and energetic, waves slapping the sides of the Sweet Revenge. The wind picks up. ...? ...You guys... Hmm... more relics from the featherbrains. 'spose this's important t'you guys, then? * Erellisae peers into the third chest, taking out and unwrapping one of the relics carefully... before going a little green as the ship rocks. ^^; "Um, can we take these inside?" * Feray looks up.. I think it's gonna rain. Hard. Wow.. I think you're right.. ^^; Weather's starting to go bad.. good thing I put those maps away * Jalanda looks to the skies. * Mikari has now wisely moved away from the railing. ^_- We should move this inside. Milda blinks, staring at the sky. [Milda] Hmmm. Ya might be right, kid. Better get this stuff back in the barrels.... *Starts scooping up items* Hey now. Don't be mockin' the relics. Artifacts're cool. And great for boosting one's rank at the Adventurer's Guild. We don't wanna get these wet, after all. :) * Mitsuo scoops up items as well, and heads inside. ^^; Suddenly, Mitsuo hears a strange sound coming from the water... * Mitsuo blinks, and turns around. So do all the others, for that matter. The sound grows louder....achingly beautiful and filled with mystery. What is that sound...? * Erellisae blinks, and looks off across the water. "Uhm..." Heh. I'm not one to mock relics, Rion, really... I mock everything, so don't take it too seriously. ....I'm not sure...but I'm not liking it.. * Jalanda stands as if transfixed, there's obviously something about the sound... * Mikari turns to pay attention to the stuff which seems to be distracting everyone else * Feray tugs her spear from her back and heads to the side, looking over into the water... * Mitsuo suddenly drops the items he was holding, looking out towards the sea. * Dylan cocks his head to one side, listening.. Feray sees nothing as yet, but the rolling waves...though occasionally there is a flash of blue color or the flip of a fin. Mmm.. * Rion glances out to where Mitsuo is looking.. * * Mitsuo stares at the ocean transfixed as well. ...hmmm.. * Feray turns to look at the group...and notices Mitsuo.. "Hey...'suo...what's up? You see something?" * Erellisae blinks, then looks around at the male members of the party. "Ut-oh..." * Jalanda speaks quietly. "This melodious call... the work of mermaids. We.. mustn't remain here long if this is so." ... Feray..? Jalanda... I think we need to get everyone indoors. ...right now. ^^; Oh, dammit. A feminine face rises out of the water, clinging to the sides of the ship and singing softly. Aw, crud. ... O_o * Mitsuo doesn't answer. Something about the sound has totally taken him in ^^: * Mikari looks around, then suddenly hoists Mitsuo up over her shoulder. Erel! Muscle Rion inside! * Erellisae cringes, and starts shaking Rion and Dylan. "Come on! Wake up! Do I have to throw Howls at you?!" Another mermaid lifts herself above the surface, smiling and gesturing to Mitsuo, beckoning. Hey.. hey.. I'm fine! ^^; ...what? O_o ... No singin' girl can stop me! I'm a great adventurer! * Feray looks oddly at Rion...and then looks at Mitsuo. ....? Why is it just targeting him? * Rion points at Mitsuo. * Not adventurer. O_o * Rion points at himself. * Adventurer. See? Well stop standing there and help, Rion! Get outta here, fishgirl!! No nerdboys for you today! * Mitsuo smiles in a very dreamy, detached way at the mermaid girl, and...kicks Mikari! O_o Mitsuo! Mitsuo! Snap out of it! * Mikari looks annoyed at the posessed Mitsuo over her shoulder, and promptly punches him in the gut, for his own good. * Feray turns to the mermaid and whistles to her. "Hey! Sorry, slutbunny, but no boyflesh for you today!" * Dylan hums quietly.. Guugh! * Jalanda tries to reach for Mitsuo. "Do not listen! It is only the path to an early end covered with the face of beauty!" * Feray twirls the spear around her and slashes out over the rail with it, trying to strike the mermaid! * Dylan sways gently One of the mermaids begins to climb the side of the ship, clinging to a rough ladder used for making repairs. Her fins swirl into legs, and soon she is human in form, her only clothing her mass of blue hair. * Jalanda looks behind her towards Dylan... * Erellisae dithers slightly, then blinks at Dylan. "Ooooh, noo... Dylan..?" Better.. uh.. get Dyl out of the way too, he doesn't have the adventurin' spirit! * Mitsuo kicks Mikari again, managing to disengage himself! O_o...not bad for a nerdboy. * Erellisae dithers, then grrs quietly, holding her hands together. "Everyone away from Dylan! I'm gonna get him out the way!" She starts to concentrate, silvery light between her palms. * Mikari feels a third kick in her side and debates letting him get eaten, or at least dealing with the mermaids themselves, who aren't wearing such pointy boots >_o * Mitsuo heads to the side of the boat while Mikari is dazed! ...or at least tries to! * Dylan is apparently quite oblivious to Erel's chanting.. * Rion intercepts Mitsuo. * That's far enough, bud. I know you're not as tough as me.. but we don't got time ta argue about this. The mermaids cling to the side of the ship, still singing to Dylan, and the one climbing the ship reaches the top and reaches out a hand for Mitsuo, smiling. * Rion winds up. * Nighty night! * Rion punches Mitsuo square in the face! * * Mikari lets Mitsuo go and stops to stare at Erellisae. "What are you doing...?" O_o; * Mitsuo grabs for the mermaid's hand just as he's punched in the face! O_o * Jalanda looks torn for a moment, hesitating... * Feray stops stabbing at one of the mermaids and twirls, noticing Rion clock Mitsuo in the face. O_o * Mikari notes Mitsuo running past towards the mermaid, and goes forth to slam the pommel of her dagger into the fishgirl's hand. The mermaid grabs Mitsuo's hand, laughing, and dives down into the water with him! * Dylan steps closer to the side ....crap! Mitsuo!! * Erellisae looks around and shakes her head, "Not enough space...!", before darting between Dylan and the side of the boat and blasting him near-point blank with a Howl spell. "Howl!" Geez.. I sure hope he doesn't remember I did that.. * Feray squeaks and dodges Mikari's swipe. O_o Watch it! The mermaids in the water begin chattering in their own language, sizing Mitsuo up and examining the lack of his muscles. :P Guys! Should I jump after him? I... ^^; * Jalanda breaks out of her daze, and runs to the side of the vessel, looking down at the tangle of fish. Dylan is knocked backwards toware the stairs by Erellisae's spell! O_o He skids to a stop before he reaches the door belowdecks, however... * Erellisae gets slammed back against the ship's rail from the force of her Howl spell, crying out as her back gets a slat of wood across it. --; Hrmfle? ...Erel! The mermaids are still above water, holding a dazed Mitsuo and arguing over him. * Dylan looks confused for a moment.. .. ...Sorry Feray... er. *Mikari stops midsentence to watch a flying cow go by* * Erellisae shakes her head and looks dazed, clutching her side. "I-I'm okay...!" Aw....heck with it. The most they could do was drown me. ^^; * Rion draws out his sword, and gets ready to leap over into the midst of the mermaids. * * Feray hops up onto the railing and looks down, taking a deep breath.. Wait! What about Nathan!? He's below decks! One of the mermaids points up to Feray, chattering angrily. .o( I can't intervene.. but he is not choosing... it is they... ) * Erellisae looks worried. "Anyone with him...? What if...?" * Nathan staggers up onto the main deck, as if on cue * Dylan steps closer to the side.. * Feray notices and scowls, sticking up her middle finger at the mermaid. Gfnrz... Up yours, fish face! * Mikari looks plenty concerned about not losing all the men of their party, but doesn't seem keen on jumping overboard for Mitsuo, especially since he doesn't seem to be a prime cut as far as their concerned... Suddenly the mermaids seem to finish their argument. One of them calls out in a loud voice, chanting something in her own language.... * Erellisae stands up, a little groggily, then notices Natham and Dylan. "Nathan...! Help us! Hold Dylan back!" * Jalanda pulls out a strange deck from the folds of her garments with her left hand, fingering one of the arcane cards... Whz all da...? * Rion leaps overboard, endevouring to bring his sword down upon the head of one of the mermaids! * * Mitsuo remains all dazed and stuff. ^^; ...Please don' tell me Nate's gonna go all lovey-dovey too here. * Nathan listens [Mermaid] Tae'shaneth shavrith! Tae'shaneth sarrethtes! Tae'sorna litanni! O_O SHIT!! Oh no... * Nathan tears past people to look over the railing at the sound! 'Zactly right, Nathan... * Erellisae prepares another spell, looking towards Dylan and Nathan just in case... "Natham! They got Mitsuo and Dylan's still in a trance..!" You want shavrith? I'll shavrith this thing right up your rear if you don't let Mitsuo go. Suddenly a whirpool begins to swirl in the waters! The ship leans to one side, and Milda and Lily shout out orders, trying to keep the vessel upright... G'k...! * Nathan starts swearing as such to make a merchant marine proud * Erellisae loses her concentration on the spell as the ship lurches, grabbing onto the side and wincing. --; Two of the mermaids grab Mitsuo and dive underneath the water, straight into the center of the whirlpool! * Jalanda hurls a glowing card into the water emblazed with the Moon upon it into the cenetr of the whirlpool... Stop!! Come back!! Aw....aw... O_o * Nathan gets ready to jump in after the mermaids * Feray , still standing on the rail, staggers! O_o * Dylan falls on his face as the ship tips Mitsuo! ...no..! * Dylan starts to slide towards the railing Jalanda's magic sends the whirlpool into disarray, but it recovers quickly... O_o .. it's too strong... * Mikari is trying to keep cool, yet looks confused; though Nathan jumped in he didn't look charmed... * Nathan dives into the water most expertly Rion and Nathan are both in the water now....the pull of the whirlpool threatens to draw them down. * Feray falls back onto the deck but quickly lunges for the rail, hanging onto it! "NATE! RION!" * Jalanda looks visiably worried now, breaking through her calm exterior... * Nathan tears directly for the whirlpool, trying to catch up with Mitsuo's abductors The crew of the Sweet Revenge is occupied solely in keeping the ship from going over. O_o * Jalanda throws another card into the maelstrom, if only to slow it a vital second more... * Erellisae tries to hold Dylan back as the ship lurches, while also clutching her injured side. ^^; * Feray looks to the remaining group on board frantically and then back at Nate, who is swimming INTO the whirlpool. * Mikari leans over the railing and decides to catch what she can with her grappling hook, Aiming for the nearest fishy appendage... * Dylan slides and hits the railing... The whirlpool's movement slows slightly, but less than before. =/ Quickly! Follow me! We can still catch them!! * Feray nods and makes a decision... Mikari misses the last mermaid as she disappears! * Feray stumbles back from the rail before sprinting and lunging into the water! * Nathan dives straight into the whirlpool's maw! * Jalanda looks across the deck as Dylan hits the railing... she breaks from her course, having no effect, and tries to feebly keep him from going over the brink as well. Damn it....... The railing creaks under Dylan's weight. O_o The wood begins to crack... * Feray follows Nathan, sputtering through the cold froth, but quickly gaining and soon disappears into the center of the whirlpool! * Erellisae tries to hold on to the railing a little longer, her sides aching, dithering for what to do. ^^;; * Mikari jumps to regain her footing as Dylan hits the railing >_o * Dylan still seems entranced.. and just lies there.. * Mikari looks for something else to perch on or hang from.... The wood continues to crack...then a whole section of the railing breaks away! The ship tilts towards the water, and Dylan slides off the deck... * Jalanda keeps a gaunt hand wrapped around Dylan, reaching for anything she can find, but he's yanked away! * Erellisae grasps at air suddenly, before scrabbling for purchase on the deck. ^^; * Mikari desperately jumps randomly towards the ship as Dylan and the piece of ship right next to her both go the way of the fishies! Mikari barely manages to grab the side of the deck. O_o Spirits...! I cannot stop this! * Dylan lands with a SPLOSH! And is swept up in the whirlpool The ship lurches! Jalanda, Erellisae, and Mikari find themselves scrabbling to grab hold of something as gravity pulls them towards the whirlpool... * Jalanda looks to the mast she holding, then at the water. She, for some reason or another, suddenly lets go. * Erellisae grasps at air, then falls away from the ship, landing in the water with a splash. --; Mikari is left stubbornly clinging to the side of the ship. ^^ * Mikari flings her grappling hook up above her to catch on to a better support. The wind, unfortunately, tosses the grappling hook back out towards the water...its weight pulling Mikari after! * Mikari lets go of the stinkin' grappling hook! It was a cheapy, anyway. :P * Mikari looks down, looks up, then rolls her eyes and looks almost bored from hanging, then lets herself drop into the whirlpool. 9_9 The whirlpool swirls about the others as they hurtle down into the water. Lily, finally seeing what's happening, runs to the railing to shout after them, but she's too late. The ship rights itself as the whirlpool fades and disappears... The whirlpool vanishes just after Mikari goes down....then subsides into the gentle roll of waves. The rain starts to fall as Lily watches helplessly. There is nothing but water all around....in their mouths, their eyes, their ears, and their noses. A watery roar surrounds them, pulling them down in a dizzying rush. Then, after what seems like forever, they begin to rise upward again...breaking the surface of the water after a short drift upward, gasping for breath. The air here is stale and old and still, but it is air... * Jalanda lets herself gently float to the surface from the watery depths... breaking the surface with a labored gasp of the musty air. * Dylan gasps, coughing * Nathan whips around as he breaks the sutrface, searching for Mitsuo Damn! Damn! Damn! DAMN! * Erellisae breakes the surface, gasping for air and scrabbling to hang onto something. * Feray springs up into the water, flicking her hair from her face violently and coughing. "Aw....ww...s..spi...spirits!" Wooden walls covered with barnacles surround the little pocket of air, apparently part of an old shipwreck. Torches flicker on the walls...apparently someone was here not long ago. ....? * Nathan gets whopped in the face by Feray's hair X_x * Nathan sputters, and starts swimming towards the torches Er...whoops. Sorry. I guess I lost the string in the water...now you see why I tie it back. Look! Torches! * Feray follows Nate, shivering a little from being in the water wearing basically just rags ^^; Nathan finds solid ground beneath him....a mixture of rock and bits of shipwreck that he finds he can walk on. There is a doorway into another part of the ship across from him... Voices can be heard through the door... * Nathan shakes off some water as he leaves it, and makes for the doorway slowly * Erellisae pulls herself onto the rock, looking very much like a drowned rat, her ear down around her face. Her ears droop. -_- * Mikari surfaces last, having been the last to let go, instantly letting go of her held breath as she reaches the surface... * Dylan looks around... Eh? * Feray crawls onto the land and quickly stands, wringing her hair as she follows Nate carefully...she pulls her hair into a makeshift hairbraid... What.. ermm... guys? * Rion surfaces, gasping for breath.. * * Nathan narrows his eyes as he approaches the doorway, sniffing the air H...hold up, Nate... * Erellisae gets slowly to her feet, her side feeling like it's on fire. She looks around a little blearily. "E-everyone okay...?" Mermaid voices can be heard through the doorway, speaking in their own language. Mitsuo sits on the floor in front of them, gazing up adoringly. * Nathan stops and looks back at Feray * Feray turns to look at the others, waving at them. "C'mon...they went this way..." They? * Rion staggers out of the water.. pushing his hair out of his eyes.. * * Feray turns to face Nate before nodding towards the doorway. "Want to bust some heads?" * Jalanda feels a bit of a vague memory come to mind, and she starts swimming quite well to whatever is solid in the wreck. Huff... so, I can guess where we are... * Dylan walks over to Erel You okay, little one? * Nathan waves at the group, indicating for them to keep it down Mermaids, Dylan... thankfully you were not enticed as well. I... uh... ^^; ... sort of got hit by a railing after blasting you across the ship? ^^;; * Nathan gets closer to the doorway and listens * Mikari blinks at Nathan, noting once again that he isn't charmed, and begins to float over towards him as she keeps low in the water. * Dylan frowns.. I'm.. sorry.. * Dylan lays his hands on Erel's side, and chants softly.. * Feray sticks close to Nathan, her hands clenched as she waits for the go signal. There's a sudden shushing noise, and one of the mermaids looks up at the doorway, frowning. They glance at each other and begin singing softly again... * Nathan holds up a hand for silence! * Nathan indicates for people to get closer to the walls * Dylan moves to the wall, half-dragging Erel * Erellisae nods, looking pissed off. Her hands are glowing with red magic. ^^; * Rion draws back into the shadows.. sword at the ready, and trying not to sneeze. * * Jalanda gets her bearings, speaking hushes and flops part of her matted hood off her face, staring at Dylan intently as she draws closer to the wall she reached before. One of the mermaids stands, all of them now in human form, and walks slowly toward the door, calling out. "Shae'vereth danaeva?" She sounds suspicious and cautious... * Dylan raises an eyebrow at Jal * Nathan indicates for the group to wait, and he heads forward alone * Erellisae draws back her hands, ready to throw a Burn... * Feray furrows her brow at Nate but waits, tensed.. * Mikari continues to follow instructions with a frown The mermaid scowls as Nathan approaches, her hands on her naked hips but seeming more irritated than anything else. "Tae'jiren! Kana taela nae!" * Nathan steps out into the doorway, "Eshvedeane, alsolovia. Enomateo sun visye." * Dylan raises his other eyebrow at Nathan * Feray blinks but remains quiet. * Rion appears somewhat taken aback.. * *mumbles* What's this talk 'bout sun visors... * Mikari blinks Is that Nathan talkin'? * Erellisae 's hands are glowing rather strongly now... she looks half inclined to throw a spell at Nathan, as well as the mermaids... One of the other mermaids stands and stares at Nathan, then gestures a hand toward Mitsuo. "Uvira shivne! Mione tal!" She hugs Mitsuo and clings to him, looking possessive. * Dylan puts a restraining hand on Erel's shoulder * Jalanda tilts her head as her ears register the dialect, giving Mikari a slight stare to be silent for now. * Mitsuo looks incredlbily dazed now, getting clung to like some big stuffed animal. * Nathan points at Mitsuo, "En'cha wasutai mabosateao. Seschut, vesalai. Sha!" The third mermaid peers behind Nathan, then spies Dylan and Rion and the others. She looks particularly interested in Dylan, pointing to him and talking quickly. "Jioma nersales!" * Mikari looks uncomfortable, but knows how to remain quiet, and does so. Oh crap. The first mermaid stands defiantly, glaring at Nathan. "Ji'tome shaekareth!" * Erellisae snarls, stepping out in front of Dylan, holding her spell at the ready. "Let Mitsuo go!" ...damnit, Erel. * Nathan crosses his arms, "Enshuti folo hen'en. Seschut, vesalai. Sha!" The mermaid has a very hostile staredown with Nathan for several moments, but finally she backs away, muttering. "Ki'tayneth gavik." Beckoning to the second mermaid, who argues with her irritably, she grabs the arm of the one hugging Mitsuo and drags her away. The youngest mermaid looks back at Mitsuo, eyes filling up with tears, and sulks all the way out. They exit a door across the way, there is a splash, and they are gone, leaving the party alone. Mitsuo feels his head begin to clear... .... * Nathan glares at the three, not moving forward yet * Erellisae sighs, letting out a deep breath and dissipating her spell. "Thank goodness..." * Feray steps out and raises an eyebrow at Nathan. "Old girlfriends?" * Rion heads forward, to check on Mitsuo. * You okay, bud? Hardly. They were either planning to keep him as a pet, or eat him * Mitsuo moans softly and holds his head, "W...what?" * Mikari gets completely out of the water, grateful to have her footing. I convinced them otherwise .... * Rion tries to examine Mitsuo's face discretely, hoping nothing's really swollen or bruised.. ...Nathan... who the 'ell are you?... (Dazedly) Where...where...? * Erellisae runs forward after Rion, grabbing Mitsuo in a hug. "Are you okay...?" * Nathan sags against the wall, clearly rather tired * Feray raises an eyebrow at Mikari's bluntness. I told you who I am I...Erel? I have a much better question. I dunno where.. some cave somewhere. We went underwater, right? That's right The only way out is to swim out. As far as I know What if it's too far to swim? * Jalanda doesn't say anything... * Erellisae nods, and grabs Mitsuo and Rion in a crushing hug for her size. "We're all okay... I'm glad." ^_^ ... * Rion eeks a bit. * ^^;; * Mitsuo blinks ...a lot. O_o * Mikari looks over towards Feray. "Negotiates with mermaids... nobody speaks mermish. Hell, they're practically legend in some areas." If it is, it will not be a problem Mikari...focus a bit.. ^^; Can...can someone tell me what's going on? * Feray gazes at Nate for a moment before nodding slightly. You had hot sex with mermaids, Mitsuo! O_o Congrats ^_- WHAT?! Not exactly ^_- * Erellisae lets the both of them go, steps back, and mmmphs at Mitsuo. "Now! Don't go swimming off with mermaids again! Or I'll Howl you myself!" ;_; * Nathan sags to the ground, dropping his head a bit * Rion 's eyes bulge. * I think she's just makin' fun of ya, Mits. Seriously...Mermaids? * Feray pauses and crouches down next to Nathan, touching his head. "You alright? Need healing?" And yes, mermaids. ^^; No, I'm not hurt, just a little stressed * Mitsuo looks a touch ashamed, "...I'm sorry if I caused trouble." * Mikari shakes her head and decides not to push it right now. Yeah. Mermaids. Complete with the tails and the singing and the flesh eating n'stuff. ...And my cheek stings. I don't want to think about how ugly that fight would have been if they hadn't backed down * Feray nods again. "Fair enough, sailor." So don't. ^^; * Erellisae shakes her head at Mitsuo. "We're all okay, right?" :) * Feray waves her hand. "It didn't happen." * Jalanda parts from her hiding place, and puts a hand on Nathan. "Once again you surprise me, Nathan. be at ease... your skills saw you and us through." * Nathan shudders, "An enraged mermaid is something I hope you never have to see." * Rion winces a bit. * ^^; * Mitsuo nods, and smiles, no longer looking dazed, "Right, Erel." * Feray raises an eyebrow at Jal. * Mikari frowns and doesn't have anything else to say for this situation.. * Nathan winks once at Jalanda, then resumes his deep breaths After some minutes, there is a splashing sound from the water where they came.... Alright...let's rest up a bit...--.. * Nathan looks over at the sound, expecting trouble * Feray stands quickly and turns to the water.. * Mitsuo manages to stand up as well, rubbing his cheek. By the way, Mitsuo, I accidently hit you on your way down. S'why your cheek would sting. ^^; We should consider finding a way out... before Lily and her crew may do something even more rash to rescue us than the mermaids... *stops as the water splashes* You did? ^^; Well, it was an accident...They're powerful. I don't remember you doing that at all. * Rion raises an eyebrow. * * Nathan goes to investigate the splash You're tough, fiddler, you can take it. ^_- * Mitsuo grins and sticks out his tounge playfully. ^_- The splashing increases, and then a soft voice calls out, a male one. "Dritaena? Niorateh?" * Mikari looks up to where Nathan is investigating, but doesn't do much else. * Feray trots a little closer to the water but gives Nate plenty of personal space. ^^; Who is that? Dees. Enomate shu'un besto. * Mitsuo takes his turn to raise his eyebrows at Nathan. Ol'Nate has the crazy language thing goin' on, Mitsuo. Hmmm.. ...Strange... I could take a guess why.. but it sounds kinda silly. More splashes. A man peers around the corner of the doorway, two more behind him, all cautious. Their hair is long but bound back; one has black hair, another green, and the third blue. All wear loincloths and carry spears. Their eyes widen as they see Nathan. * Erellisae blinks, and hides behind Dylan. ^^; * Mitsuo steps back a bit reflexively. * Nathan bows, "Shomu'eh Nea'eth." Mmf. *Mikari mumbles, not in the most stable of moods...* ...(w) He knows them? . o O (....wow....they can keep me as a pet anyday. What the heck am I -thinking?-) * Feray shakes her head to herself a little and watches carefully. The leader steps forward and bows in return, looking somewhat surprised. "Yosora, Nea'eth. Shomu'eh Thitaen. Feselan tiorne?" * Jalanda looks intrigued by this, but bows very respectfully back, speaking through her actions rather than words. The men bow respectfully in return to Jalanda, and also to the others of the company, assuming they are Nathan's friends. * Mikari seems more annoyed than pleased to see attractive guys in scant clothing, as now is a fairly bad time for it... Esh, sombaten elo's wentodai. *points at Mitsuo* * Mitsuo blinks a bit. * Feray waves a little meekly at the men, unsure of what the hell is going on. ...Eh, do th'men want Mitsuo now? * Nathan turns back to the party, "It's okay, we aren't in as much danger now." ... 'as much'? ...As much. mm-hm. ...Why did you point at me, Nathan? What's going on? O_o The man in front, the one with green hair, nods. "Usindes. Driteth gitenna? Arash'te nio...shevntare?" Give me a sec, I'll explain if/when we get out of here * Erellisae looks a little panicky. "If..?" * Mitsuo gulps slightly. * Rion grins. * We'll get out. * Jalanda bends down to the water, scooping it up with her hands, and forming it into a crystal. * Nathan bows again to the leader, "Dunase weren quan, gutenar balsate en'enmai yalmebe." One of the men watches Jalanda with interest... * Nathan gives the group a thumbs-up The green-haired one nods. "Quende Nea'eth, quende siornae. Sho'ra." The man motions, heading toward the water and waiting for Nathan and the others. * Jalanda gazes into it, as Nathan talks, trying to visual the meanings and energy behind the words, and bridge the language barrier somewhat. Good, we're gettin' somewhere..... Ummm...good? Yay? * Rion shrugs. * Dunno. Well heck, they're not feasting on our flesh. Okay, they're going to shelter us for a time. There's a storm up above, and its not yet safe for us to return. So we're stuck here, eh? ^^; Not safe..... what 'bout our boat?.... ...Oh boy... Yes. O_o What about my mom?! The boat is fine. It can handle the storm. However, it's not safe for us to try and go back. I'm...I'm sure they're fine. This is LILY here folks. ^^; * Erellisae looks rather worried, but says nothing. ^^; I see... * Feray chews her bottom lip, concerned.. * Nathan throws Feray a winning smile, "Honestly, do you think there's a storm out there that can sink yer mom?" ^_^ I'm not concerned 'bout her handlin' the storm; I'm wonderin' whether she'll wait for us... Yes, I am certain madam Lily is capable. We should take this ofefr of shelter for now, it is sincere. ...That's -true-. * Feray grins. Relax, this will work out. Follow me. * Nathan heads for the water Let's go then... * Mitsuo follows Nathan. * Feray watches for a moment before following.. ^^; * Erellisae follows, looking worried. Okay, they're going to give us a gift so we can follow them A...gift? Is it shiny? Ah.. that's good, since I wasn't too keen on the drowning thing. Maaaaaaybe ^_- Gift...? What's that have to do with followin'? Custom or necessity? ^^; * Feray chuckles and waits. ^_- Just wait here and they'll do the rest After some conferring, one of the men, the one with black hair, steps forward to Rion, leans down, and....kisses him? O_o ...woah! * Mitsuo wideyes! O_o Does anyone have a CAMERA? ;) ...That's shiny? * Rion sputters and recoils! * * Nathan bites down a grin * Erellisae sniggers. ^^ * Feray puts a hand on her hip and grins. Sorry, but that's the only way we're getting out of here We have to be kissed by guys? Alrighty! ;) Uh...--; * Jalanda holds the shimmering orb in her palms, not seemingly surprised by this. "I believe I see what this 'gift' is." ...Er. Heh. This is interestin'. Very quickly however...and on second thought it seems more like mouth to mouth. He moves on to Dylan, looking impassive as he does so. The other two go up to the others, each in turn, and give them the same... That will allow us to breathe underwater for a while * Mitsuo sputters a bit as he's french--er kissed. ^^; Each kiss actually feels like a breath of air, filling their lungs with fresh oxygen. * Mikari looks very wary at this, but allows the merman to do so after hearing Nathan's explanation. * Erellisae blushes slightly, but accepts the 'gift' after Nathan explains. ^^; Once finished, the mermen gesture to the water, then wade in. * Rion looks dismayed.. * I'd have taken my chance with the storm, if I'd have known.. Well now... this'll be useful. ^_^ * Nathan follows the mermen * Feray winks at the merman that kissed her. Lovely gift. Let's go! * Erellisae follows tentatively, not enjoying going into the water again. ^^; The merman blinks at Feray, then blushes slightly. * Mitsuo shakes his head, and follows Nathan. * Mikari feels like she doesn't have to inhale to speak. * Feray grins and follows the men into the water... I thought you'd like it...well, some of you at least The water is cold, but bearable. The mermen dive underwater and wait for the others before leading the way... * Jalanda allows herself to be kissed without protest, and nods to the merman thankfully back. She wades in after them soon after... she might've blushed for a second, but you really can't tell. ^^ * Nathan ducks into the water without hesitation * Feray follows behind, her hair quickly becoming untied once more. ^^; * Erellisae follows along, enjoying the freedom once she gets used to it. :) * Mikari jumps into the water... this temperature is quite colder than she's used to, but she doesn't let anyone know. Once all eight of them, including Dylan, are in the water, the mermen lead the way, swimming quickly through the dimness of the sea. Far in the distance ahead, they can see lights on the ocean floor.... . o O ( This is wild...! ) * Nathan turns to the group, "This is going to be interesting, I just know it!" ^_^ The mermen talk quietly as they swim. It takes some time, but every now and then they stop to wait for the others. The lights come closer, and soon they realize they are swimming toward an undersea city....after some time they reach the edge of the city. Buildings rise before them like huge seashells. * Jalanda flexes her right arm with momentary discomfort and tucks the scrying orb away securely, plucking her way through the ocean. "This journey becomes more breathtaking at every turn..." ...we can talk underwater? Wow. ^^; * Nathan seems unphased at being able to talk underwater normally Merpeople, most of them male, swim through the water around them. Their guides take them toward a large building in the center of the city... Incredible....O_o ..seems unnatural.. It's fun! :D Natural is in the eye of the beholder, Rion. This is normal to them. It ain't to me. ^^; Hey...I could live here. ^_- * Nathan laughs! Breathtaking.... err, sorta. ^^; *monitors her own lung capacity* I'll second Rion. Two guards armed with spears open the doors to the great building, ushering them into a watery hallway filled with light, decorated with fine rugs and tapestries of woven seaweed, with brightly colored fish flitting here and there through the passage. * Nathan follows the guards obediently * Feray reaches out and tries to capture one of the fish. Their guides lead them to the end of the hallway, then the black-haired one slips in through a huge double door. Moments later he returns. "Gitirna shoven. Jioso tae'kinda lior?" Hmmm... nice fish... colorin' reminds me of parrots.... The fish darts playfully between Feray's fingers, like a bounding puppy. ....pretty.. Yeah.. pretty strange. I hope that storm goes away soon. * Jalanda tread/water/walks, holding the pulsing orb near her ear and concentrating. * Mitsuo is in awe...it's a good awe this time though! :D * Erellisae glances around, enjoying the scenery. :) * Nathan nods, "Gashol'ue, rutyo mas." * Feray considers.. Ga....Gashuuloo? Gashol'ue The man smiles and ushers them in to the large chamber. There is a tall table made from shells; an older merman floats in front of it, examining some papers of seaweed. He looks up as they enter. * Feray eyes Nate. "Gash...o'lue. Heh!" Ga. Sho. Ool. Ey. I'm speaking Merperson! ^_- I rock...... Oh ye-... Galoshes...? er? * Feray goes quiet, looking meekly at the man. ^^ Now, do you know what you said? ^_- Yeah, you probably said "Kill us and feast on our intestines" or somethin'. ...did I say kill us and feast on our intestines, Nate? ^^; The ripples... perhaps I can understand them. Mm. Goloshes and intestines. My kinda place. * Nathan laughs No, you said, 'Thank you.' ^_^ How do you say 'I would like to see you flex your chest muscles'? * Erellisae grins at Rion. "Wassamatter, scared?" :D Eheh. ^_^ ...I'll remember that for -after-. ;) * Nathan thinks .... Everything's slower.. like walking in molasses. I don't like this much.. I'm slow. * Mikari does not bother to ask "After what?" * Feray relaxes a little, eased by the banter. I think it's "Dentoulo'i klemba fen gjut wainao' * Feray winks at Nate and motions to the man. "Who...is he?" ^^; The older merman looks up. He is in half-form...half of him fish, with a long glittering tail of purple scales, the other half an older human, perhaps around 50 or so years old. He smiles as they enter. "Ah, guests....welcome to you all." * Jalanda follows into the chamber, looking towards the rather regal merman. You can...speak our language? * Erellisae waves. :D * Nathan bows to the visitor * Feray decides not to say that line she just learned to the man. The man nods. "My name is Shendo, and I am the Coordinator of Eteres. Some of us speak your language, and it is thought prudent for Coordinators to know at least a little of the world above." * Mikari mentally gulps as she sees the elder merman... not literally, as there is enough seawater in her stomach Thank you for sheltering us in your city. We are in your debt [Shendo] You are quite welcome. Giasne tells me that you ran afoul of some females...? * Jalanda lowers her head, and bows as well. "It is an honor to meet you, I am called Jalanda, a seer of Zil Padon in the world above." Yeah, they were pretty foul, eh. ^^; Erm...My friends tell me we did...I don't remember much of it. That is true. One of our group was taken * Feray fidgets a little, looking about curiously, wanting to explore. ^^; Shendo rolls his eyes. [Shendo] They don't change. But you are all safe now...you may stay here till the storm above subsides, and we will, if you wish, send guides to take you to the surface." Thank you for your hospitality Yes, thank you, sir.. ^^; Shendo nods politely to Jalanda in greeting. [Shendo] May I ask the names of you others, as well? I'm Erellisae! :D Mitsuo Reese, sir... Oh!.. I am Feray Lupris, a huntress from the town of Leck.. ^^; Shendo smiles kindly. [Shendo] Well met, little Erellisae. And you, Feray Lupris...though I fear I know little of the world above and know not your town of Leck. =/ Rion Hollinger, #4 Ranked Adventurer of the New Parm Adventurer's Guild. « ummm, I guess ^^;; » Shendo smiles wryly. [Shendo] Well met, adventurer Rion Hollinger. Aw, it's a boring place anyway, sir.. ^^; Not like here! [Shendo] And to you, Mitsuo Reese. * Mitsuo nods politely. He smiles. [Shendo] You like our city, then? I am pleased. ^_^ It's very...shiny. ^^ And big! And pretty. * Feray sweatdrops.... (m) ....someone gave me Erel's brain while I was passed out.. * Erellisae blinks, and looks across. "Hey!" ;_; * Mikari steps forward. "I'm Mikari Thalsford... an explorer. Don't need t'tell ya where I live cuz hardly anyone above ground knows about it either..." [Shendo] Welcome to Eteres, Mikari Thalsford. And to you, Dylan of Laine. * Mikari nods back Such a city would almost make the wonders of the Zil deserts pale in comparison, sir Shendo. I thank you for the hospitality, though there is little I can offer you in return. Shendo turns to Nathan. [Shendo] If you prefer, I could have some rooms prepared for the night...our mages might be able to make them fairly comfortable for surface dwellers, filling them with air for the night. Would this suffice? ....Air would be good. Thank you, that would be wonderful [Shendo] Merely to enjoy our hospitality is all the payment I require of you. ^^ That'd be great, thank you very much. ^^ Shendo nods. [Shendo] Very well. You likely wish to rest now; it is nearly mealtime. I will have rooms prepared and food sent up to you. I will speak with you again in the morning, if it pleases, and then when you are ready to return we will send you with guides. *Clapping his hands, he calls for a servant, then sends him with instructions to prepare rooms.* * Nathan whews Heh. we'll enjoy it, yeah, s'for sure. Thankya much. ^_^ * Mitsuo whews himself, suddenly feeling bushed. ^^; Barely a quarter of an hour later, the eight are being ushered into a room by a servant, where a dining table of shells and cushions of seaweed and sponges are scattered about. The room has been drained and filled with air, though it is still a bit damp in places, and smells strongly of salt and fish. They are left alone for a moment while dinner is prepared... * Rion lets out a sigh of relief.. * * Erellisae blinks, looking around at the decor. :) "Wow... they must be powerful, to do this..." * Feray lounges quietly on a sponge cushion... * Jalanda finds a seat at the unlikely table. "Their magic is very strong, for it comes from a strong bond to the Spirits in the ocean." Three guesses t'what we're havin' for dinner! ^_~ * Nathan flops down on a cushon * Mitsuo breathes in a lot of salty air, "Nathan...how did you...how do you know the merpeople?" I've had dealings with them before * Jalanda lets a small sigh escape her lips, as she turns her still faintly glistening sphere around a few times in her hands. * Erellisae continues to poke about, looking fascinated at everything. Growing up where I did, it was inevitable * Feray gazes at the table.. * Mitsuo nods, "I see.." That's incredible that you know them! My grandpa always told me stories about them when I was small..but they were just that...stories... I learned the language when I was real little. It came in handy a lot They're very real Mitsuo, and very dangerous * Mitsuo sweatdrops, "So I've heard. Wish I could remember how dangerous...maybe it's best I never do." .o( The smell of the sea... would it be selfish of me to desire that now...? ) * Erellisae sits at the table next to Mitsuo, and nods. "You were really spaced out..." ^^; I don't remember anything after I heard them singing... ^^; To be honest, I was wondering if everyone would get out of this alive Um, Nate... maybe I haven't travelled 'smuch as you, but I've never heard of a place where they interacted with merfolks... except maybe by spearpoint, that is... ^^; Merfolk are NOT fond of surface dwellers in general So...why were they so accepting of us? * Rion grins. * Best not to worry about if you're gonna live or not, and just live. Well, you have to understand something about merfolk Females are EXTREMELY different than males So we're not gonna get fattened up and eaten then, right? Females are capricious, vicious, animalistic, and violent, while still keepin a thin veil of 'humanity' ...Oh? They like to stay near the surface, so most surface dwellers only see females * Erellisae blinks, and listens... Males are pretty cold and calculating sorts. Analytical and focused. They tend to stay in the depths mostly * Jalanda looks up as Nathan speaks. "That would explain much of the fear and misunderstanding regarding their people." I never knew that. Wow. I suppose, in practice, it is not unlike the traits which Lainians possess. Maybe, but male merfolk are FAR less friendly There is a soft knock at the door... * Mitsuo looks to the door knock. The door swings open, and a young merman steps in from the watery corridor, pushing through the barrier into the air as if stepping through a thin membrane. He stands in the room and takes out a tablet of some sort and a writing utensil. "What would everyone like to eat? We have several kinds of fish available..." Fish would be great ^_^ Just like home :) Uhh.. cooked, I hope. ^^; Fish is fine for me, too. I'm not picky. * Jalanda looks at the merman enter, words forming on her lips slowly and hesitantly. "...do you have eel?" The merman grins. "Tridestian flounder, crisped eel, and hivrendis shark. Take your pick." Any fish! :D None for me, thank you. Flounder sounds great. ^^ * Jalanda smiles, relieved, and replies more firmly. "The eel... please." The merman scribbles down all their orders on his tablet... One of each ^_^ The merman nods, then heads out through the barrier into the watery corridor, changes shape so he has a fish tail, and swims off so he can hurry back with their food. * Nathan relaxes a bit more * Jalanda relaxes too, but for a much different reason. ^^ * Mitsuo yawns a bit. ^^; * Feray leans back, her expression thoughtful. It isn't long before their food arrives...very wet food, but very good nonetheless, served with various kinds of seaweed and other underwater plants, including some bulbous stuff that might be marine types of fruit. Fate is so very strange... Hmm...looks close enough to home * Nathan digs in ^_^ * Mikari eats quietly but with fervor. * Mitsuo eats. As they eat, they are free to examine the decor in the room. The walls are covered with seaweed tapestries, but the seaweed has been dyed so expertly that the colors are as bright as any found above the surface. The room is, however, dimly lit, but strange phosporecent stones in the corners... The tapestries show some fascinating scenes, most highly stylized. One wall is bare of tapestries, covered instead with ancient carvings... * Mikari starts to wonder how you dye anything underwater.... * Mitsuo gazes at the wall with the carvings. * Rion quietly eats his meal.. * * Jalanda takes up a utensil, pausing... looking at the well cooked fish, and thinking of faraway times. She eats with grace as always, but you can tell she's enjoying herself for once.... The carvings are very stylized, but they show a mixture of fish and merpeople. Some of the merpeople have the bottom halves of squids, jellyfish, manta rays, eels, etc...a wide variety. Many are armed. Some women are among them, but few...they appear to be guarding something. * Erellisae eats rather ravenously. ^^ The carving shows a circular shape, with squiggly lines meant to show light or power or something, sitting in a shell-shape that might be a building, the guards without protecting it. ...Strange... Hm? The carving on that wall... * Jalanda actually seems to sigh with a brief happiness, looking around the room... though the painting slowly makes her focus on it rather than the food... No different than any other carved things.. when you spend time in ancient places, stuff like that is common. ...what is this... * Nathan looks at the painting in question * Jalanda runs her eyes over the carving a few more times, muttering quietly. "Could an orb rest underwater...?" A mural of something? * Erellisae pricks up her ears. "Another... teleport orb?" Indeed, it does look something like the carvings they found in the jungle ruins north of Garist... It seems... similar to the mural in the Temple. ...Hmmm. Temple? Back up near Mik's town. Nothin' special. * Jalanda lowers her head. "When we were chasing Erellisae's captors, we stumbled upon an ancient ruin in the Garist jungles. And it looked like this one? An ancient phophecy of some sort was incribed there... its words foretold many things that held truth. It's mostly just the doodle, I think. True, 'cept the line style has marked differences if ya ask me... * Nathan goes to examine the mural a bit closer, munching on a fish It could be concidence, but... I do not believe in such things. There is always a reason. The shining sphere depicted is nearly identical. * Nathan rubs his chin and thinks Upon closer examination, Nathan can see that the building in the mural resembles one seen on the outskirts of the city as they arrived. * Erellisae nods. ^^ Maybe... but... ah... *Mikari shrugs, not seeming quite so concerned with this at the moment given her otherwise hectic day :P* Hmm... * Jalanda mumbles a bit more to herself about dimesions... The merpeople guarding the building are carrying spears and other weapons, and they wear a strange kind of insignia that looks a bit similar to some ancient Angelou markings. The threat they fight is relatively formless, mostly a chaotic mix of lines and shapes and dim smudges. The orb has bluish cast to it, and it rests on a stand with many carvings and decorations, all implying how sacred it is to the merfolk. * Mikari looks around at all the clues staring them in the face... ...Y'know, I get the feeling there's some watery cavern 'round this place to explore. With plenty'a monsters inside t'kill us and some ancient artifact to find. Thing is, I'd rather take a nap now. * Nathan laughs! ...yay, monsters trying to kill us. --; ^^;;; Well, not like you wanna steal some sacred artifact from some guys who're putting up with you for the night. * Mikari grins slightly. "D'ya agree, Nate?" You wanna kick these guys in the butt and take their treasure? We shouldn't. Probably true Considering they could have killed us from the get go...we have no right to take it...right? Nahh, Rion. 'Way I figure there's some place they don't know 'bout yet. Happens all the time when ya explore multiple ruins in th'same area instead of just the major ones like you prob'ly stick to... I'm an opportunist n'all, and I love findin' treasure. But this'd be like stealing from a museum. Which is not cool. I couldn't disrespect such benevolent hosts... *shakes her head* How late we want to go tonight? ^^ Sheesh... I said I'd rather take a nap'n explore it anyway. Moot point, an' all. * Jalanda returns to her food. "Everything has it's time... for now, we should rest." Soon a merman comes to collect their empty plates and show them to their rooms for the night... Hey.. bud.. that there orb on the wall. You guys still have it? * Nathan thinks The merman blinks, uncomprehending. After a while he works through what Rion has said, then speaks in heavily accented syllables. "The Sacred Orb? Is legend only....not seen for many century. Some say destroyed. Some say never was." He shrugs. * Feray shakes her head to herself and adopts a faint grin. * Rion grins. * Typical. Thanks, guy. ....hey, sir? Dentoulo'i klemba fen gjut wainao? * Erellisae looks sleepy, clutching her side a little and snoozing lightly on one hand. ^^; The merman cocks his head at Feray, listening. "Tae'a?" *Hearing her request, he blinks, then blushes bright scarlet. Muttering something, he excuses himself.* Feray, I don't believe you should... * Mitsuo bites his lip, trying not to laugh! * Feray bursts out laughing. ^^; * Rion looks nonplussed. * No, he doesn't want to go back to your room once he's off from work, Feray! * Nathan laughs! * Mitsuo busts out laughing too! * Jalanda laughs a bit despite herself. ^^ Mermen are funny. ^_- A bit too uptight for my liking, though. I was just kidding around ^^ ^^; He'll get over it. Anyway...I'm bushed. Have been since I ah...woke up ^^; Guess my poor ol' brain got overfried today. * Mitsuo knocks his hand on his head a few times. * Nathan grins at Feray * Mikari smirks at Feray's stunt and finishes her meal. ^^ The merman re-enters, still blushing, and mutters something about showing them to their rooms. * Feray smiles wryly at Nate but there is something forced about it. She then winks at Mitsuo. "Get some rest, toots. You'll need it." * Erellisae snoozes slightly, but manages to wake up enough to follow the merman. ^^; * Mitsuo nods, "^^;" * Nathan stands up to leave I think...if they'll let me.. I'm going to go for a small walk around the city.. I'm not really tired...all that drunken sleep n'all. ^^; Er swim. Er walk. You know what I mean. I suppose they'd let you if you ask * Feray eyes the merman. "So...cutie...whaddaya say you pucker up so I can explore this town?" * Feray gives him her brashest grin. * Mitsuo laughs! ^^; The merman blinks again, trying to work out just what she is saying...he looks at Nathan as if pleading for help. O_o * Mikari snorts mid-bite, spitting slightly as she tries not to laugh at Feray. ^^ It's okay Feray, until they decide to take the gift back, or you leave the water, the gift stays ^_^ Oh really? Great then. ^_- Go get 'em tiger ^_^ * Feray chuckles and bats playfully at Nate. "Rawr." * Jalanda composes herself from the interesting display of language, getting up to follow the mer. "I believe she would like a few more gifts before this day is out..." * Nathan laughs! * Mitsuo smiles, "Nice gift, then...*Yawn*" * Feray winks at the merman and stands, heading for the door....she pokes at the membrane. * Mitsuo doubles over laughing. ....squishy. ^^ A few drops of water cling to Feray's finger. * Nathan grins * Mikari laughs alone with Mitsuo, albeit a little quieter ^_^ I think ya disappointed her, Nate... she'd want n'excuse to ask for 'nother one. * Feray twirls and throws herself backwards through the membrane, twisting away gracefully and heading outside! ^^ I know, but she was frightening the natives ^_- I'm sure she'll find some that are adventurous enough to gift her again tho ^_^ I'd like to sleep now, please ^^;;;; Hahaha.... ^^ Go for it :) The merman at the door nods, then beckons for the others to follow... They've accepted us all, so we can sleep safely tonight Wonderful. ^^ I'd say 'Wet dreams, everyone!', but well.... ;) * Jalanda testingly leaves the airspace with a squish, into the hallway. * Mitsuo winks and heads off. ^^; * Nathan laughs! O_o; ...... No.... comment. The merman shows them to a nearby corridor where the guest rooms are. Each member of the party gets their own room, somewhat damp but full of relatively fresh air. ^^; The beds are pallettes of various underwater plants, with spongy mattresses and woven seaweed for blankets, but they are soft and comfortable. * Mikari pokes her bed cautiously, welcomed with a small "sqoosh" sound. ^^; Sweet.. finally no more of Dylan's snoring.. * Nathan seems unphased by the accomidations This will be... diff'rent. Odd but...cool! * Erellisae collapses on her bed, quickly falling deeply asleep. The merman leaves, after advising them that they are free to move around the city, but cautioning them not to get lost, and to be ready to see Shendo in the morning. Hey.. as long as I'm not having to share, I don't got any complaints. * Jalanda looks a little surprised at the accomidations look, but thanks the merman, and whispers into hsi ear to give her praises to the chef. The merman smiles and bows to Jalanda before leaving. * Mitsuo heads to his bed and flops down on it, falling asleep almost instantly. o_o * Nathan looks out a window for a time, not yet going to sleep * Jalanda sits upon the spongy bedside, placing her little orb beside it. "Tomorrow, I will ask... but for tonight..." She leans back onto it, falling to sleep. ==Session End== Session Close: Fri Jan 04 22:17:38 2002