Session Start: Fri Jan 18 19:05:30 2002 *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 14.0: The Approaching Storm | Location: Sweet Revenge, afternoon, June 25 | Session Start' ==Session Start== It is mid afternoon about three days later when the Sweet Revenge finally docks at the little island of Sarsen. The crew runs about securing lines, and before Lily oversees the unloading of cargo, she gathers her passengers on the deck to speak to them... * Dylan looks around.. he seems a bit out of it * Nathan stands by on deck. He's been rather somber these last 3 days * Mitsuo picks a bit at his shirt, abnormally quiet these last few days. * Mikari sits on a cargo barrel out of the way of the majority of the hussle. * Jalanda has cleaned herself up from the rather drenched look earlier, though her delicate face is creased with palpable concern. * Erellisae walks up to everyone else, looking like a little bundle of determination, her fists clenched. Lily leans against the mast, waiting till everyone is there, before speaking. She has left the others mostly alone to sort things out for themselves, so this is the first lengthy discussion she has had with them... [Lily] Everyone here? Good, I wanted to speak with you about your plans before we unload everything... Yes.. * Mikari listens from the back of the group... * Mitsuo nods. * Feray leans casually on the railing, a faint smile on her face but looking subdued. [Lily] You may or may not know that I and my shipmates are technically privateers; we round up the pirates and return the stolen cargo, and in return we get a small share of the profits. So that's what I have been doing lately. However, I've been thinking about you and your adventures...you said you were searching for my son. * Nathan nods This is so. Yes, that is correct, Madam Lily... * Erellisae nods. That's right... [Lily] I haven't had time to ask you for details, or what's going on, but suffice it to say that what concerns my son concerns me as well. And I'm starting to think there's more than just a missing person at the heart of this. Seems almost as if someone's out to get you guys. Lucky us. ^^; [Lily] So what I'm saying is, looks like you guys need some help. So if you decide you'd like to have me join you, I can see my way clear to do so, at least for a time. [Lily] What do you say? ... *_* * Mitsuo looks to the others, "I don't see why not..." * Nathan thinks about that Of course! :D I cannot ask you to abandon your responsibilities... but this is your choice. Danger is all around us at many turns. Lily smiles at the somewhat starstruck Erellisae. As both an adventurer and a cook, we could not ask for better company. Well, I have been training an excellent first mate. Milda has been helping immensely, and I think she's finally found her sea legs. *Grins* She'd be fine with taking over command of the ship until I return... * Jalanda bows respectfully. "But to Lilly the Skull, I'm sure these are no strangers." * Mikari nods and doesn't say anything else, letting the others make the real decision If you want to join us, I won't object * Erellisae nods. "Besides, you probably know this place better than us." :D * Dylan looks around the group I don't object either... Puff! Lily smiles at Jalanda. [Lily] Well, I generally do live for danger, yes. But...more importantly, I see something that needs doing. Others can take my place here. * Dylan holds out a hand to Lily Just watch where you're swinging that frying pan of yours. ^_- Welcome Aboard, Ms. Lily * Erellisae blinks, and looks confused. "Uh, Dylan? We're about to leave the ship, though..." [Lily] Well, to be honest, I haven't spent much time in Talachia...but likely more than you have, I'd wager. At the very least I have a few contacts that could help us on the way. I can probably go with you as far as the western jungles... It's a figure of speech, Ms. Erellisae Lily laughs and shakes Dylan's hand heartily. * Erellisae sweatdrops. ^^; [Lily] Well, anyway, we're probably going to stay here tonight. We could stay aboard the ship, but I'd recommend an inn; you've probably all had enough of ships and water to last you a while, and we're not done sailing yet. So while we unload, why don't the seven of you find an inn? I'll drop by this evening. * Mitsuo remains quiet. Okay, do you want us to get you a room too? * Nathan nods * Jalanda looks to be in agreement... [Lily] Nah. ^_^ I'm more comfortable sleeping on the ship. But I'll have dinner with you tonight, and I'll come meet you in the morning. Okay? All right then Ship's not as bad as I'd thought, but I can do without it... * Erellisae looks across at Mitsuo, and frowns slightly at his expression. * Mitsuo doesn't notice. * Mikari nods quietly and prepares to go along with the rest. Let's go * Nathan heads down the gangplank for the town Lily nods. [Lily] All right, see you this evening! *Waves* * Mitsuo follows behind Nathan. Lily hurries off to oversee the unloading of cargo. * Feray wanders behind, wondering if it would improve both Mitsy and Nate's temperment if she shoved them off the gangplank and into the water....but decides not to, needing to be able to live. ^^; As you wish, Madam Lily. Be watchful... * Jalanda debarks * Nathan takes a deep breath before he leaves the boat, then pushes on, forcing a small smile onto his face * Erellisae makes her way quickly down the gangplank, eager to explore a new place. ^^ * Dylan follows So...are we going straight to the Inn? ^^; So, anyone know where the Inn is? ^_- The town is a rather unimpressive but pleasant little sailors' town. The buildings are mostly wooden, and the smell of salt is everywhere; the streets are rather muddy. There are a few two-story buildings that appear to be inns amid all the shops. * Mitsuo reches into his bag and pulls out the small green stone he found. * Feray hops onto land and points at the two story building with 'Joiryde Inn' on a big sign out front. There she be. ^_- * Jalanda looks around the quaint port town. Works for me ^_^ * Nathan head towards the Inn * Mitsuo sighs, and places it back in his pocket. * Feray saunters after Nate. "Think they have sexy massage guys here?" * Feray noticably attempts to keep her convo light, though her eyes are more serious. * Mikari sweatdrops at Feray ^^; * Erellisae peers around as they walk through town, dropping back slightly in Mitsuo's direction. Possibly ^_- * Jalanda eventually follows. "This place has a good atmosphere... perhaps my vision shall be cleared back upon the land." The inn is rather noisy, but clean. The lamps inside are lit, and some rowdy sailors are beginning the night's celebrations a bit early... * Nathan saunters up to the inkeep * Feray brightens at the loud conversation.. This place is great! The innkeeper looks up as Nathan approaches. [Innkeeper] C'n I help yeh? Two rooms my good man! * Mikari grins to notice the people here speak her language * Erellisae looks worriedly at Mitsuo again, before leaning over and whispering something to him. * Jalanda is not so impressed by the rowdy patrons as Feray, her mind thinking upon more serious things afoot. * Mitsuo blinks. * Mitsuo sighs a little, and shakes his head, "Right, of course..." * Erellisae steps back, nods to Mitsuo, and starts peering around the inn. [Innkeeper] Two rooms....awright. *Scribbles something in a book* 200 G up front. Here's yer keys. * Feray rubs her tattoo, bouncing on her heels a little. ^^ * Nathan slides the money to the Inkeep and takes the keys, handing one to Jalanda * Jalanda procures the key gently from Nathan. "Thank you." All right, we have rooms. I suggest we get settled and meet back here in 20 minutes * Mitsuo nods. Yes sah, captain. ^^ ^_^ * Erellisae squints, covering one twitching ear with a hand. "It's rather... loud in here." ^^; Sure, whatev'. Wait until later, Erel! ^^ You'll hear words you probably don't know ^_- * Nathan laughs! A sailor slams his drink down a little too hard nearby, showering Erellisae with a few droplets of beer. ^^;; If everyone else's loud, Erel, they won't think you are. ^_^ 'sgood thing. * Erellisae blinks, confused, her ears drooping. ;_; "No faairr..." Righto, people...you heard Captain Skippy...let's go settle in, girls! * Mitsuo can't help but crack a smile. * Jalanda tries to smile a bit, but she's quite burdened with her serious air. She excuses herself to prepare the room for the others.. ...oh, just preten' they got a sign out front 'at says "You May Get Wet." Follow me gentlemen ^^ * Mikari grins a little * Nathan herds the men off to the room * Erellisae perks up, nodding. "Let's go." :D * Mitsuo is herded! * Feray chuckles and trails after Jal.. ^^ * Erellisae follows Jalanda, muttering something about needing a towel. --; * Mikari nods and follows, however refusing to be herded like... er... a cow? * Dylan plods upstairs to offload his pack The rooms upstairs are a bit smaller than they're used to, and they smell very strongly of sea salt, like everything else in the town. However, they are relatively clean, and they're warm. * Nathan opens the door and ushers people inside * Jalanda opens the door, looking it over. "These shall do.." * Feray shrugs and claims a bed by a window, flopping onto it, bouncing a little. ^^; The beds seem comfy enough. ^^; If not a little small. * Dylan plonks his bag on the bed * Jalanda lets everyone inside, and finds a corner of the room to herself, looking pensive. * Erellisae drops her pack on a bed, then works on drying herself off. --; "I dunno... they look big enough for me." :D * Nathan sets his travelling gear down by one of the beds and tries it out to see how comfortable it is * Mikari plnoks herself on her bed. Comfu bed? Salty The beds are a little hard, but at least the mattresses aren't lumpy. ^^; But better than jagged rocks ^_^ Heh Mm. At least we're on land, huh? We can have solid ground under us when we track Rion down and talk to him. * Feray flicks her glance over the other girls in the room, judging their expressions. * Mitsuo flops on one of the beds, ows, and looks up at the ceiling. * Erellisae nodsnods. "I wanna know why he did it... he must have a reason, I'm sure." There's always a reason. ^^; We just need to tackle him down and wrestle it out of him, I think. * Jalanda produced a very tiny crystal ball from her robe. With a few swirling motions of her slim hands it begins to gather energy about it and increase in size. And try to stop some people from killing him. ^^; * Erellisae nods. "I agree." ^^; * Feray kicks her feet a little and squeaks as one of her boots goes flying off her foot with a damp squelch, hitting the wall with a loud thud. O_o .... wow. I can't wait to dry out my clothes. ^^; ~Though the goal is noble, the path is skewed... watery depths, grant me insight into the one who is torn.~ << I've put on a bit of weight since then. I need to exceresesesrese >> * Nathan raps on the other side of the wall where the boot hit, "Keep it down in there ladies." ^_- * Feray snorts and calls out. "We're just having a naked makeover party, Nate! Don't worry your little head about it!" * Erellisae hmms, flopping onto her bed and looking across at Feray. "Where'd you think he went, though? What if he's the other direction?" * Feray grins to herself and reaches out to snag her boot, tugging it on. She gets a serious expression, turning to look at Erel. * Nathan laughs * Jalanda attempts to scry, tuning out the conversations about her and focusing upon the shere before her. * Dylan rolls his eyes and sits down. Okay gents. Any thoughts? Well, we just take that chance, don't we? He could be anywhere, really. But I think he's around here. Thoughts on? Rion * Erellisae nods. "I think so... we'd better find him." Hrmm. We'll find him, Erel. Don't worry about that. ^^ Worry about keeping him when we find him. ^^; I'm suprised by his actions.. * Mitsuo shakes his head, "I've been looking at that green stone I've found since we've gotten here...it's not reacting at all..." * Erellisae grins. "That won't be a problem. Big fireballs in front of them make people stop running." :D * Mikari lays back, appearing indifferent, but listening just the same. I wish I could say I was * Dylan shrugs Be careful about using your powers, hon...he could get the wrong idea if you toss a fireball at him ^^; In the end, I suppose our priority is to get the orb back to the mermen. I'm not gonna toss it /at/ him. ^_^ Just... behind him. ^_^ * Mitsuo nods, "And soon, or everyone'll be in a huge mess." Our first priority should be to find Rion actually, before the merfolk do Why? Becuase they'll flay him alive? * Jalanda's expressions shift, cupping the crystal ball more intently and sliding more into a sitting position... Still. Watch, because he might think you're trying to hit him, though. Let us try the physical aspect first, alright? Well... * Erellisae nods. ^^; The veil is lifting... It depends on what kind of merfok find him and when Why does the time matter so much? ...shouldn't we talk to the others as well? I know Mitsuo's upset... :/ * Nathan sits up Yeah? Well, let's go see them. Well, there are two basic kinds of merfolk. Brightwaters and Darkwaters Jal? Are you doing your mystical thing..? ^^; * Erellisae nods, standing up. * Jalanda tries to concentrate a bit harder and clarify what she sees. "A dark figure, cloaked in shadow... at the table of ambition..." Bright and Darkwaters? I'm a Brightwater We're born close to the sun * Mitsuo blinks a litlte. "Oh." We tend to be happier and more apt to learning new things And Darkwaters are the opposite? * Nathan nods * Feray slides off the bed and heads to Jal, crouching slightly beside her. "..." So if a Darkwater finds Rion... He'll wish that they'd kill him He won't be that fortunate * Mitsuo winces, "And I assume a Brightwater will just want to kill him." * Jalanda looks up. "I know not who this could be, but grave danger is closing in upon us. We must locate Rion before it is too late." ...well... Alright. Let's go see the guys, Jal... Outside, there is a very soft, distant rumble of thunder. * Mikari frowns. * Mitsuo blinks, "...Thunder? But I don't remember it being cloudy..." * Jalanda dispels the orb, perking her pointed ears at the sound of a storm brewing... * Erellisae nods, and walks out of the room, knocking on the mens' door. ..? * Feray stands slowly, blinking... Come in. * Feray turns and heads for the mens' room, ducking in after Erellisae. "We're the welcoming committee. The housewarming gift basket is coming tomorrow. There's mangoes." * Erellisae opens the door and waves. "We gotta talk about... him." ^^; Heh. Find a seat. * Jalanda arises, and joins her comrades outside... * Erellisae plunks herself on the floor in the middle of the room. ^^ The merpeople are sending mangoes, eh? Lovely bunch. ^_- No offense, Nathan. I was hoping for peaches laced with arsenic or something. ^^: * Mikari follows after the rest leave... * Feray laughs and settles down beside Mitsuo on the bed. * Jalanda stands near the door, her expression perhaps now even worse than downstairs. ^^ A glance out the window shows dark clouds brewing off in the distance. ^^; The sun still shines on the port town of Sarsen, however. * Erellisae looks down at the floor a minute, not saying anything. So what did you guys find out? * Feray glances out the window.. "Us? Nothing. Jal had a vision, though." Yeah. Yet another one. Don't you want to sit down, Ms. Jalanda? I thought your visions were tiring.. * Mitsuo looks dead serious, "Oh? What, Jalanda?" Yes... I saw a dark figure at a table... I feel this person holds sway over Rion's destiny. * Erellisae looks up, looking determined. "When we find Rion... we don't hurt him. I want to know why he did it.", she says, despite looking ready to lob spells at anything. * Feray smiles wryly at Erel but nods her approval at the show of spine. Indeed, though some amount of scuffle may be unavoidable.. If the difference is healing the wounds we cause, or him getting away.. Someone...holds sway over Rion's destiny? You mean someone really did put him up to all of this? * Erellisae looks at Mitsuo. "He did say we shouldn't ask about it, that it wasn't /our/ problem..." ...If someone else were controllin' Rion, I wouldn't've expected him to be so unapologetic 'bout it. Not that he's the apologetic type, but hey. * Mitsuo shakes his head, "...I dunno. Controlling anyone sounds pretty far fetched. People can be manipulated very easily, though." ... he didn't exactly laugh at us, though... he just looked... serious. * Jalanda shakes her head. "Whatever the case, the Spirits have foreseen that his struggle shall be over his loyalty, and his dreams. We must set him right before we all are swallowed by the appraoching calamity." ...Normally I'd just beat the snot out of him, but I trust your visions, Jalanda...and if this is all true, then it may not be entirely his fault. Just mostly. ^_- So you can't kick the snot out of him...just yell. ^^; ...Do y'mind if I beat the snot out'v him at some point? ^^ * Jalanda sighs. "It was his choice. I did what i could to advise him." I'd prefer you waited for his reasons first, Kari. Jalanda, what about those storm clouds outside? Are the merpeople coming already? * Erellisae looks at Jalanda. "Any idea which direction he's in?" I'm afraid the image is still too faint... if we find this person it may become clear. He didn't laugh at us, right, but he did brag like nobody's business. That pisses me t'hell'n back. No, he didn't entirely brag. He claimed he was this person of light or what not. * Jalanda looks down. "He is not lying." Jal, could you cut the cryptic crap and tell us what you know? Please? ^^; However, the truth can be taken many ways by many people... He's...not? O_o ....Not lying? Jalanda, who IS he then? * Jalanda looks up. "If my beliefs are well-founded, he is no less a bringer of light than any of you." * Feray taps her lips... So he's just very messed up then? * Mitsuo blinks. ^^: * Erellisae traces a fingertip on the floor, thinking... * Mikari looks irritated at the lack of knowledge in general, which is nobody's fault really, although it may seem like she thinks it is for all the narrow looks she is giving at the moment We all know of his penchant for the tall and the impressive... it is his ambition that is being maligned... The window shutters rattle with a sudden gust of wind. ^^; * Mitsuo blinks, and looks to the window, frowning. I'll drink t'that, short of anything else. -_-; * Erellisae nods slowly. "Then all we can do... is ask him, when we find him." ^^ Good sized storm coming in... * Nathan keeps looking out the window, a frown on his face Think it's trouble or just bad luck on our parts? Probably trouble. It's more bad-luckish. * Jalanda looks to the windows. "We are all caught in this storm, but it may yet unite us before it is through." So...are we done the heavy discussion for tonight? Who wants to go get some grub or a drink? * Feray drums her fingers on her bared midriff, raising an eyebrow. By now, the sun has drifted towards the horizon and is now hidden behind the clouds. A darkness descends upon the town, and people begin to light the lamps. ^^ Hmm. Food would be good.. Grub? Drink? I'm in. Sounds good to me :) * Mitsuo's stomach growls, "I suppose so." * Erellisae nods in agreement. "Look, cheer up! We're in a new town, there's nothing we can do til tomorrow, so let's just relax!" ^_^ * Jalanda takes a deep breath. "...I am going to be outside. Perhaps I can find something..." * Feray eyes Jal. Be careful, Jal. * Feray stands from the bed and grins at the others. "Let's go catch us some food!" * Nathan hops to his feet, ready to go * Feray heads out the door and for downstairs.. * Erellisae pouts slightly as her attempts to cheer the group fall flat, but hops to her feet anyways. "Yeah!" :D "Although... I might go outside with Jalanda." ^^; * Mitsuo gets up as well, and looks to Jalanda, "You sure you don't want some company? It's getting stormy out." * Nathan heads downstairs, glad for a moment's distraction As they head down to the common room, the smells of fresh stew and homemade bread assail their nostrils. Unfortunately, this is tempered by the smell of cheap ale, unwashed sailors, and heavy salt air. :P Still, it is warm and bright and overall pleasant... Mmm, smell that greasy man flesh. ^^; Bleck * Mikari follows the pubward friends slowly, mellow at the idea of both a night on land and alcoholic beverages ^^ * Jalanda shuffles downstairs a bit. "If you wish... though I would prefer to be alone right now. You should relax and check this place for clues." If you want to be alone, I won't interfere. Just call if you need help, okay? * Feray winks at Nate. "I know you don't enjoy it. You're entirely too manly, eh?" * Erellisae nods. "Alright. But I'm not staying in here to get soaked again." --; I prefer other oders, to be honest ^_- * Feray laughs and saunters for an empty table, flopping down into a chair. ^^ * Mikari's nostrils immediately shut for the night, a survival technique mastered only by true career tavern-goers. * Dylan finds a table for the party to sit at * Jalanda nods, tugging her cowl quite high around her face, almost as if she was heading out into a sandstorm. "I shall not be long, it is a small place." * Jalanda exits into the stormy night through the front.. * Mitsuo sits down at the pointed out table. ^^; The wind buffets Jalanda as she heads outside, and the door closes behind her. * Nathan plunks down in his own chair, looking pensive again Before long, a rather plumply top-heavy waitress comes over with a notepad to take their orders... * Mitsuo stares at the top-heavy lady, and quickly turns away. ^^;;; * Erellisae is also heading outside, waving to the others as she does. "Back in a while!" :D The waitress looks unabashed. [Waitress] What'll it be? * Feray's eyebrows nearly hit the roof and she grins goodnaturedly. "I'll take the strongest ale you've got. And some of that bread I smell...and some stew." * Feray's stomach gurgles. ^^ Just some bread and stew for me.. Stew and ale my good lady The waitress scribbles it all down. [Waitress] Y'want the regular ale, or the stuff we keep in a strongbox in back? Some stew and water, please. That stuff you keep in a strongbox. ^^ Strongbox [Waitress] Got it. Be ready in about....fifteen minutes or so. I'll have some'v what she's havin' too. ^^ * Feray nods and leans back in her chair, smiling. "No drinking contests this time. I'll win and we'll all pass out!" The waitress heads back to the kitchen, slapping away sailors' roving hands and shouting at them when necessary. And Mitsuo will get molested by scary merwomen ^_- Heh! Mits 'as just got that certain charm, eh. The kind that women could just eat up.. liter'ly. Hah! With some light baste. ^_- * Mitsuo blushes and shakes his head, "Gghz...^^;" Couldn'ta said it better, Mits. ^_^ Man, you make sound like a total hormone factory... ^: The waitress returns shortly with several mugs of ale. The metal mugs appear to be slightly corroded. ^^; * Feray chuckles at Mitsuo.. ^^ I'll toast to that. * Nathan takes his food and drink without a word Heh. * Feray picks her mug up and toasts the group before tipping it back to gulp the ale boldly. * Mikari turns to Nathan... Cheers 'Ey, I know it's been a bad few days, but 'least enjoy your meal, eh? * Mitsuo sips some of his water. The ale is good, but bears a certain resemblance to antifreeze as it goes down. O_o Woogh... * Mikari shrugs and takes in some of the ale, too. Sorry, my food's gonna be a little bitter for a while :) That's some good stuff. * Mikari shivers and smiles at the burning chill of the ale. ^_^ "Ahhhh." ...Eh? Hmm, need salt, Nate? ^_- * Mitsuo blinks at everyone's expressions. . o O ( Glad I didn't order any ale... ^^; ) Salt? Around here? Yer funny ^_- One of the sailors looks over and gives Mikari a thumbs up, seeing how she downs her ale without blinking. He looks impressed. ...Yeah, guess the air 'lone puts enough in th'food. * Feray smiles a bit and tears off a piece of her bread, swallowing hungrily. * Nathan picks at his stew while sipping at the ale Mikari, look out. That sailor looks impressed you can drink. ^_- So what's the plan? Wait for the storm to blow Jalanda away? ^_- * Mikari doesn't bother with her usual "leave me the 'ell alone" drinking demeanor in the strange town, and gives him a smirk that is relatively friendly for her. I'm sure she'll handle herself alright.. ^^; The sailor chuckles and goes back to his own drink. Two tables over, however, another man looks up, hearing Mitsuo. [Man] Mikari? Mikari Thalsford? Thanks fer the warning, but remember I spend most of m'time in a place like this back'n Garist, Mits.... ..? Erel went out with her, I think...and...er...*blinks* The man shoves his chair backwards and stands up, quickly crosses the room, and hauls off and punches Mikari in the face! O_o ..! * Feray raises an eyebrow and stands quickly. "Hey!" * Dylan stands up STOP! * Nathan stands, looking rather anrgy Hey!! * Mikari sets her drink down and stops smiling, hearing her name unexpectedly. She turns around just in time to be clocked. >_< * Mitsuo stands up and balls a fist, a reddish aura seeping from it, "Back off or you'll be VERY sorry!" * Feray reaches out to snag the man's shoulder, twirling him around and slugging him in the face! The man, rather muscley, looks up at Dylan, who is rather taller than him. [Man] What's it to you, Lainian? She cheated me! *Points accusingly at Mikari* Stay out of this, hear? ... ... [Man] Gack! O_o *Topples over backwards as Feray slugs him* Oh. Shit. * Mikari stands back rubbing her face and taking in who just touched her, implying there will be hell to pay. * Feray wags her fist and steps back, satisfied. * Nathan scans the crowd, looking for more trouble * Mitsuo still has the reddish glowing hand. * Dylan looks around to see if anyone else is going to jump in The man gets to his feet, touching his puffy, blackening eye rather gingerly. [Man] 'Ey, look, just give me my money back, and I'll leave 'er alone! *Growls* * Mikari stalks up to him. "WHO cheated you??" The rest of those in the bar look on interestedly, waiting to see what will happen, or bury their faces in their drinks. The innkeeper looks nervous. * Feray keeps an eye on Mikari and the man, tensed to deal out pain if she needs to. I never cheat anybody. Now tell me what y'have to say REAL quick before your mouth becomes so swollen y'can't talk. -_- [Man] YOU did, ya wench! *Scowls at Mikari* That card game back in Tivren? I swear you were cheating! Everyone knows you were! No one gets that kind of a hand without a little bit o' cheatin'! * Nathan sits back down, figuring the situation is in hand A couple of the patrons of the inn quickly pay their bill and head outside, not wanting to be involved in this. ^^;; That's a very serious accusation, and if everyone thought she was cheating, why wasn't it dealt with then? 'scalled chance, y'dimwit. Some people just don't wait long 'nough t'see it. Now, where'd ya want it; in the jaw or in th'groin? *starts to roll up what little of a sleeve she has* * Mitsuo oh dears. -_-; * Mikari maintains herself one degree below the boiling point. The man sweatdrops. [Man] She's got the whole town under her thumb; no one'd stand up to her! *Glares at Mikari but looks nervous* You cleaned me outta everything I had though! I shoulda just gotten the money outta yer pilot when I saw 'im. -_-;; *Takes a step backwards* * Erellisae opens the door to the inn, looking satisfied. ^_^ "Hi ever--..." o_O I *do* hope you didn't do anything to him... * Nathan inidicates for Erel to join the group and sit The man only now seems to notice just how many friends Mikari has, which is highly unusual for her. ^^;; * Feray blinks and relaxes slightly, looking to Erel before sitting down. "Hey. Wanna have some stew?" * Jalanda is behind the little girl, looking towards the bar with a disdainful eye. ...My pilot is NOT me. Y stay 'WAY from 'im. * Erellisae sits down, looking warily at the man. She points. "Who's he?" :D Sore loser Someone who picked a bad time to try and collect a debt. ^^; [Man] Eh, me? No. Didn't touch the kid. Sheesh, whaddaya take me for? But ye'll find out soon 'nough; he's lookin' fer ya. * Mitsuo finally lowers his hand, the red glow dissipating. Thanks for the message. Are you finished? * Erellisae blinks, and tugtugs on Mikari's arm. The man looks at Feray. [Man] But ya don't unnerstan! I NEVER lose at cards! I got LUCK on m' side! *taps his chest with his forefinger* Me an' lady luck, we're real close. Close huh? Looks like she left you at the door tonight buddy (w) Oh yeah, real close. She asks you out on weekends. ^^ * Mikari finally starts to notice that her previous friends are actually sticking with her. ^^; This is also an unexpected new experience. I believe you should worry about greater things than coin, sir. A life is a very valuable thing. I hope you enjoy your pillow talk. Real close, huh? Then I shouldn't have been able to clock you one. ^_- The man glares at them all, looking very angry but not quite willing to do anything about it. Er... *looks sidelong to Erellisae, now ignoring the man* What? Which I can do again, I assure you. I think you best let things lie. If your pilot's here, then your plane's gonna be here, right? :D There's much better things to do with life than hold a grudge over money. Yeah, like learning how to sew. [Man] ... Yeah, I was wonderin' when he'd come 'round... means we got business in a minnit here... but first... *rubs her cheek and turns to the man* * Jalanda steps in fully, some leftover wind blowing the edge of her robe, though her face is still largely covered. * Nathan nods to Jalanda and waves her over * Mitsuo smiles a bit too sweetly at the man, "Anything else you need here? Or can both parties finish their beers and ales in peace?" You're just pathetic. "I never lose" never stood up'n any bar.... but I do admit I owe ya somethin'. * Erellisae mmphs, prods Mikari's arm briefly, then looks around the table instead. "If Mikari's plane is here we've an easy way to search for anywhere suspicious Rion might be!" :D [Man] Look, I'd lie low if I were you, Mikari Thalsford. I'm not the only one angry with ya, appar'ntly. Seems there's worse'n me askin' around for ya...somethin' t'do with you headin' westward. If I were you, I'd stay right here or head back to Garist. *Snorts derisively* The man looks skeptical as she says she owes him something. He backs away another step. Hold it * Feray narrows her eyes slightly.. * Mikari nods somberly, considering this. "Thanks for th'advice." ...She then punches him square in the nose. * Mitsuo sweatdrops. ^^; The man goes down with a loud "GRK!" Nice. ^^; There, now we're all paid up. ^_^ * Jalanda pulls some of her coverings off as she approaches. "Such things are not your concerns, you should worry about your own safety at this moment." She watches him get punched a bit impassively. "And that lies far away from here" He swears quite colorfully, then scrambles to his feet, holding his bleeding nose. Muttering something, he heads out the door. A shout from the innkeeper stops him. Grumbling, he digs in his pocket for a few coins, tosses them to the innkeeper, and leaves. * Erellisae mmmphs, and hops up and down in her seat impatiently. "Liiisten!" ^^; * Nathan shrugs, and returns to his drink Well... 'least he paid... Yes, Ms. Erellisae? * Nathan looks at Erel * Jalanda sits down. If Mikari's plane is here, then we have an easy way to search for Rion! :D * Feray looks to Erel and chuckles. Hmm...but flying in THIS storm? We'd have to wait for it to pass. But it IS a good idea Tomorrow, then. ^^; But still! :D Erellisae... you may be right. Something else is coming this way. * Mikari rubs her cheek once more, as it is now turning a little red. There might be a bruise eventually, but not enough to show on Mikari's dark face, at any rate. The wind rattles the window shutters, louder this time as it picks up. The distant thunder sounds closer now. ...Yeah. Let's go with Erel. Don't worry about the storm; Zach'll be able t'handle it. I hope he added some extra seats tho'... ^^ * Mitsuo shivers a bit. And, the words of that fellow ring with Lily's... The waitress comes by and refills everyone's ales. An' if we get the chance... * Mikari sighs and gravitates towards the door, not wishing to be pierced by any more tavern eyes. * Nathan thinks for a while ...Speaking of which, where IS Lily? * Erellisae looks cute at Mikari. "Can I try piloting at some point this time?" ^_^ (m) Damn, and I was lookin' forward to a quiet drink... Probably preparing her ship for the storm * Mitsuo nods, "I figured..." Um... Heheh, I'll let you ask Zach. ^_- * Jalanda nods to the waitress but does not ask for anything. ^^ As if on cue, the door to the inn slams open, and Lily stands in the doorway. A sudden crack of lightning lights up the town behind her, outlining her silhouette dramatically. She glares as a rumble of thunder follows, then mutters, "Darnit, I HATE it when it does that..." * Erellisae grins. "Yay!" :D * Nathan waves Lily over, pushing his stew away * Feray chuckles and toasts Lily. "Heya." Dramatic * Jalanda raises an eyebrow at the rather dramatic entrance. * Mikari grins in amusement as she thinks of an encore to Zach's previous reaction to Erel. ...I want to learn how to do that. O_o Lily spots the others, then heads over to their table, but doesn't sit. [Lily] Hey, all. Um....what was that all about? Man ran out of here pretty fast.... Feray and Mikari beat him up. :D He ran into an old aquaintance Er. We didn't beat him up! We just...punched him. ^^; [Lily] Heh. Bet he deserved it. But you can explain later...just now, looks like we've got trouble. ^^;; * Mikari lingers in the doorway to the inn hall for a moment, before turning around and walking back towards the group. How so? Trouble? The storm? * Jalanda nods slowly... [Lily] Um. Not really. Storm's a nice touch, but I'm more worried about the storm that's arriving from UNDER the water, if you take my meaning. -_-; ... Geh...already? They don't wait long... Hmmm.. * Erellisae sweatdrops. "Ut-oh. Can we go now, please?" ^^; Go where? Nathan, will they hurt innocent bystanders here, or just us? [Lily] Well, that's the thing. There's something strange about it. But you'd better come down to the docks and have a look for yourself. Hmm. Let me get my mace from upstairs * Dylan starts off to the room * Nathan stands up to leave, finishing his ale and heading to get his things Let me get my things, and I'll be right down! * Mitsuo heads upstairs as well. ....nnghn. *Mikari adds thoughtfully, and looks out the window oceanward.* Lily waits, trying to be patient but fidgeting nervously. * Feray quickly heads upststairs and grabs her small pack, heading back down just as quickly. She winks at Lily. "I've always got my weapon on me....but clothes are hard to replace." * Erellisae dashes upstairs to get hers. ^^; * Mitsuo is already heading down with his things, and is clad in a blue windbreaker, "Ready!" * Jalanda arises again, pulling her hood deeply about her face again. "As soon as they are prepared, please show me as well." * Nathan returns to the group, ready for action * Mikari does not comment, as she has only one main set of clothes and simply additional garments otherwise... * Dylan comes back down, ready for.. most things * Erellisae zips downstairs, looking rather ready to leave. ^^; Lily nods and quickly heads out into the storm, pulling her hood up over her face against the wind and a slight spattering of rain. She heads for the docks at a quick pace. * Mikari actually has all her things with her at the moment, as it isn't much, so she gets ready to leave right without going anywhere. * Nathan follows quietly * Mitsuo pulls up his hood as well, and follows. * Mikari follows after, shaking the rain out of her eyes as it covers the rest of her.... * Jalanda is quick to follow * Erellisae follows along, pulling the cloak around her shoulders and not getting further ahead of the group for once. --; * Feray heads after the others, having no hood, instead letting her hair get slicked back and her clothes drenched. She rests her hands on the hilts of her daggers resting at her hips. * Dylan is relieved he bought a travel cloak. As they approach the docks, they can see the waves rolling in. Out in the water, some distance off the side of the Sweet Revenge, the water is roiling somewhat strangely.... * Nathan narrows his eyes at the motion of the water Nathan...what are they doing? * Erellisae steps back a little, looking very worried. "I think... we'd better get out of here fast..." ^^;; * Nathan takes a few steps closer ...I have NO objection to that idea. ^^; Ths is an ominous feeling... ... I wonder what it could be... The only problem is how long would we have to run? We can't run from an entire race forever... * Mitsuo watches the water carefully. We have to find Rion, and get that orb back... :/ * Jalanda looks upwards to the skies. They're out there... A shape leaps out of the water, attaching itself to the side of the ship, and begins to climb! Whoa! O_o Look! * Nathan takes a step back and hisses What the.. Darkwater? * Erellisae blinks, and starts to gather magic in her hands, glowing silver... "What is it...?" A good bet * Mikari unsheathes her dagger, and jumps to the ready at the edge of the dock! Be on your toes everyone There is an eerie cry from the water, and it begins to roil again. After a few moments, tentacles appear, and another dark shape like the one on the ship pokes its head above the water as well... ...holy.. O.o;;; Ewww! o_O A giant squid? * Jalanda tenses up visibly. "..." My mom! She's on there..! I have to... Spirits above... O_o We've got to help them! C'mon! . o O (Crap!) * Mitsuo rushes back towards the boat! * Dylan nods * Feray unsheathes her daggers and heads for the ship swiftly * Dylan runs to the boat The second shape leaps and starts to climb the ship....vaguely human in shape. The tentacles move forward, and as they lift above the water it becomes apparent that there are two squids down there.... * Nathan charges to the ship! * Erellisae runs up the gangplank with the others, losing concentration on her spell as she does so. * Mitsuo runs as fast as humanly possible! * Nathan charges forward, knowing what's coming * Jalanda slides into motion towards the ship... * Feray has lost her cheer and it is replaced with a furious determination.. * Mikari looks for an opportunity to attack one from the back and attempt to gain the initiative. >> Merman 1 and 2 appear! Blue Squid 1 and 2 appear! Enemies are scattered; allies are scattered. Battle begin! * Nathan draws a handful of shivs from his tunic >> Erellisae's declaration. * Erellisae looks around worried, then starts collecting silvery light in her hands again, looking toward Squid 1! * Jalanda pulls a few wicked looking shark teeth from the folds of her robe, and hurls them at an errant tentacle as it draws too close for comfort on the deckside. "The wheels are turning faster than I hoped..." Squid 1's declaration. Swims in Mikari's direction, preparing to attack! >> Dylan's declaration. * Dylan twirls his mace and chants They're moving too fast... Ugh. I hate calamari. >> Merman 2's declaration. Leaping from the side of the ship, he growls and prepares to attack Nathan! ... >> Squid 2's declaration. Prepares a special move, aiming at Lily. * Feray twirls her daggers expertly, waiting for an opening... >> Mikari's declaration. * Mikari decides to take her chances, and circles around to the left of the squid confronting her to hit it from behind! Critical attempt on Squid 1! >> Lily's declaration. Prepares a special move, aimed at Merman 2! >> Nathan's declaration. * Nathan gets ready to throw a handful of shivs at Merman 2 >> Merman 1's declaration. Prepares a special move, aimed at Feray! * Feray narrows her eyes and casts the merman a wicked smile. * Spanky_The_Merman starts moving around in a suspicious way, aiming at Feray. >> Jalanda's declaration. * Jalanda lifts her pale right hand from the robes that hide it, as it begins to gather an ivory magical aura... >> Mitsuo's declaration. * Mitsuo balls up one of his hands into a fist, and it suddenly glows with an angry reddish aura as he glares at Merman 1. >> Feray's declaration. * Feray gets ready to leap upon Merman 1 in a combo attack. >> Squid 1's action! Combo attacks Mikari. 7 damage...6 damage! >> Squid 2's action! Executes Ink Blast on Lily. 35 damage! * Mikari gets hit in the side as she attempts to circle and winces! >_< >> Merman 2's action. Combo attacks Nathan! 4 damage...4 damage! * Nathan accepts the attacks without comment >> Lily's action. Lily executes Eyepatch on Merman 2! Merman 2's Hit% is halved! 'Ey! Get a load of THIS! * Lily smirks slyly, quickly undoing her eyepatch and flipping it around in her hands, so that the opposite side is revealed. Inside the eyepatch is a cleverly concealed mirror, which she shines in the enemies' eyes, blinding them! >> Merman 1's action. Executes Muscle Flex on Feray! >> Feray takes 19 damage. * Spanky_The_Merman spins around and rips off his shirts and starts flexing his muscles. He then starts to sing a lovely tune towards Feray. * Feray sweatdrops and looks confusedly at the merman, the sheer ugliness of his chest wounding her! >> Erellisae's action! * Erellisae snarls, and flings her hands towards Squid 1, unleashing a Howl at it! >> Erellisae casts Howl! 29 damage to Squid 1...28 damage to Squid 2! >> Dylan's action! Earth! Make flesh like rock! * Dylan raises his hands as energy toughens the party >> Dylan casts Diggin'. All allies gain +1 DEF level! >> Nathan's action! * Nathan throws several shivs at the 2nd merman, perforating it several times! * Feray wipes her lip, some blood dribbling from her mouth. She tightens her hold on her daggers.. >> Nathan attacks the Merman! 16 damage...16 damage! >> Mikari's action! * Mikari jumps around behind Squid 1 for a belated puncture wound! She jumps back for a good trajectory, then leaps towards it, spins in the air, and plunges her dagger deep into its head!! >> Mikari attacks Squid 1 with a critical. 14 damage! >> Feray's action! * Feray stabs the f*** out of Merman 1. :P >> Feray attacks Merman 1! 17 damage...17 damage! Grah...you wound me! Good, you jackass. * Spanky_The_Merman flexes his muscles again, his newly made scars wiggle. >> Mitsuo's action! The flame which blazes red, reside in me! * Mitsuo balls up a fist of burning energy, and throws it at the target. The ball expands into a latticework of red spears, igniting everything they touch as they seek to piece through the enemy! >> Mitsuo casts Burn! on Merman 1. 26 damage! Ass fire! AHHH! >> Jalanda's action! * Mitsuo looks at the merman and blinks. A lot. Wow. You are NOT very bright, are you? You're getting burned alive and all you can say is 'ass'? Geez... O_o * Jalanda gestures towards the foes upon the shipside as a chill gust picks up. "For those that seek to hasten destruction, you must atone... bind them now, aster chains!" >> Jalanda casts Freeze! All enemies suffer -1 MOV level. * Spanky_The_Merman now burns SLOWLY. Squid 1's declaration. Charges toward Mitsuo, preparing to attack! Squid 2's declaration. Readies an attack on Erellisae! * Mitsuo makes a face, "Bleh! Go attack that pole over there!" * Erellisae eeps, and braces... * Mikari ducks into a shadow and looks for the next opportunity to surprise a merman. >> Lily's declaration. Prepares a move, aimed at Squid 1! * Jalanda refocuses, trying to buy the group time however she can. >> Nathan's declaration. * Nathan prepares another attack, this time on Squid 2 >> Erellisae's declaration. * Erellisae grrs, looking around, and starts focusing her hands together, a bright red light coalescing in motes around her hands. >> Mikari's declaration. * Mikari smirks and holds her dagger with two hands, sneaking through the shadow towards Merman 1! >> Dylan's declaration. * Dylan rushs a Merman, fists raised >> Merman 1's declaration. Readies a special move, aimed at Erellisae! >> Merman 2's declaration. Aims an attack on Jalanda! >> Feray's declaration. * Feray readies herself to attack Squid 2... >> Mitsuo's declaration. * Mitsuo balls up a fist again, seeping with a reddish aura, and glares at Merman 1, "Leave Erel alone..." Yeah! ^^; >> Lily's action! Any sailor worth her salt can tie a decent knot! * Lily grabs a line of rigging, lashing out at the enemy with it and binding them in its coils. Darting forward, she attacks, slashing with her blade! * Jalanda looks sharply at the mers advancing on Erellisae. >> Lily executes Sailor's Knot. 21 damage to Squid 1...24 damage to Merman 2! >> Squid 1 and Merman 2's actions are canceled! >> Squid 2's action. Attacks Erellisae...8 damage...8 damage! Erel! O_o * Erellisae winces, holding her side but continuing to concentrate on her spell... --; >> Nathan's action! * Jalanda thanks Lily wordlessly, and tries to prepare a spell before the second closes in.. * Nathan charges forward, planting his foot on one of the squid's tentacles, and stabs a shiv through it, pinning it the deck! >> Nathan attacks Squid 2. 14 damage...14 damage! >> Jalanda's declaration. * Jalanda lifts her pale right hand from the robes that hide it, as it begins to gather an azure magical aura... >> Mikari's action! * Mikari runs straight up to Merman 1 and attempts to skin him thoroughly with a two-fisted dagger attack! >> Mikari attempts to critical Merman 1, but misses! ;_; >> Dylan's action! * Dylan reaches Merman 2, and pops him in the face. Twice! Break and Crush! >> Dylan executes the Old 1-2 on Merman 2. 37 damage! Merman 2 is done for! * Mikari runs back towards the party again, still swearing profusely over her previous miss. >> Merman 1's action. * Spanky_The_Merman brings his hands up to his face, spreading out his fingers. He also flexes his pecs and looks at Erellisae and only says one thing..."Vogue." ...Nathan, is this guy on mermaid narcotics? What...the.. >> Merman 1 executes Muscle Flex on Erellisae. 23 damage...Erellisae is down! ;_; They look worse after I've broken their nose! * Erellisae ...uh... falls to the ground from a mermaid posing at her. The hells? ...I have no idea -_-; * Dylan kicks the down merman in the kidneys * Mitsuo snarls a bit as Erel falls, "Okay, that does it. Sorry Nathan, I'm really tired of playing nice here..." * Erellisae cries out, nonetheless, and collapses. --; Erel! * Dylan growls at Spanky ... Do what you have to do Mistuo * Mitsuo nods, looking determined. * Mikari runs past the fallen Erel as she sprints, slowing down by the mage. She looks down, then up, then frowns. * Jalanda whispers "Erellisae... do not be blown away yet..." >> Feray's action! * Feray lunges at Squid 2, growling as she slams her daggers into it, ripping them out viciously before driving them back in once more... >> Feray attacks Squid 2! Misses first attack....second attack does 15 damage. Squid 2 is done for! * Feray scowls but nods, twirling her daggers... >> Jalanda's action! * Jalanda turns quickly to her side, altering her target... Water of life, relieve pain and strife... Heal... * Jalanda gestures outward, the motion accompanied by a gentle mist that washes over Lily, who's battle scars begin to mend and fade in it's wake. >> Jalanda casts Heal. Lily regains 47 HP! * Lily sighs with relief. "Ah, thanks Jalanda!" >> Mitsuo's action! A good turn, for a good turn. Help Erel... Burning rage, explode and consume! * Mitsuo balls up a fist of burning energy, and throws it at the target. The ball expands into a latticework of red spears, igniting everything they touch as they seek to piece through the enemy! Hah! >> Mitsuo casts Burn! on Merman 1. 27 damage...Merman 1 is done for! Wha...nooo! * Mitsuo waves, "Buh-bye. ^_-" Nicely done.. * Spanky_The_Merman dies and sinks underwater, his pecs still twitching. Too bad it's had to come to this... ... There was no other choice in their eyes * Feray can't help but admire the pecs as they go down ^^; Feray! * Mitsuo scowls just a little. >> Lily's declaration. Readies a revive spell! Stop looking at his chest! Gross! Just...don't! ^^ This's one odd Mer-race... ^^; * Feray chuckles at Mitsuo and winks at him. "Alright...much nicer things to look at." ...Guess it's no odder'n Feray, tho'. ^^; * Feray arches an eyebrow at Mikari but doesn't reply, her lips quirking into a bit of a smirk. >> Nathan's declaration. * Nathan prepares to attack the last squid >> Mikari's declaration. * Mikari smirks a little at Feray, then darts away mid-glance to take out the remaining squid. No bones about it, she just goes for a clean two-hit combo this time, running at full tilt. >> Dylan's declaration. * Dylan runs over to Feray, azure light coming from his palms.. >> Squid 1's declaration. Prepares an attack on Mikari! * Mikari is now running at Squid 1's face, preparing to feed said face a pointy object ^_^ >> Mikari's action! * Mikari proceeds to imitate the Iron Chef! * Mikari hacks twice for a nice diced squid. >> Mikari combos the Squid. First strike...miss! ^^;; Second...8 damage. Squid is done for! Yes! * Mikari gives a nice V sign. ^_^ V * Nathan stands down, and goes to check on Erel >> Battle finished! Received 50 G, 36 EXP! * Mitsuo hurries over to Erel. * Erellisae lays unmoving, breathing shallowly. -- * Mikari remebers Erel as well and trots back to the group. * Erellisae groans, shifting slightly, before getting up to her knees slowly. "Ugh..." You okay, kiddo? * Jalanda looks over the rail of the ship into the frothing seas below for more foes... * Erellisae sits up, supporting herself... just about. She answers weakly, "I-I'll live... probably." --; * Mitsuo smiles, "Hey Erel...Here, hold on..I'll heal your wounds, okay?" * Feray sheathes her knives quietly, raking her gaze over the people huddled around Erel before heading to Jal's side.. * Mitsuo closes his eyes, and begins to concentrate. Heh. Yeah, if ya can say that, yeah, you'll live. ^^ I hope this helps! * Mitsuo claps his hands, and a thin blue line crawls along the ground towards Erellisae. The line curls up and around, then dissipates, taking the wounds with it. * Dylan finishes his water charm, and Feray's shock at the aquatic pecs diminishes * Erellisae visibly relaxes as the heal spell goes off, breathing out heavily. * Feray rests her arms on the rails, scanning the water for trouble... ... >> Mitsuo casts Heal. Erellisae regains 48 HP. * Erellisae gets to her feet rather unsteadily. "We'd... ugh.. we'd better get out of here now... I bet more'll be coming..." >> Dylan casts Heal. Feray regains 30 HP. We need to find Rion... * Erellisae nods, holding her side as the pain wears off. "The plane's our best bet..." But, how can we see Rion from the plane? We don't have to. * Mitsuo pulls out the small green stone, "This may help." Mitsuo's stone! ^^ Yeah, let's get goin'. I wanna check on Zach. I'd rather not rely on it, but yes, let's speak to Zach. He may have news. That stone'll probably help from the plane, yeah. Yes, it's our only link to him. If we were to get close enough it should resonate... Let's hurry, then... Agreed Lily nods. [Lily] I'm going to stay here and clean up, make sure we're safe...the storm's almost here. You might want to get back to the inn...we'll see what we can find out in the morning. Yes, this looks like it'll be bad enough wether for ducks, let alone us.. * Mitsuo nods, "Plus Erel got pretty beat up. ^^;" Lily nods. [Lily] We'll keep an eye on things here! Eh, don't worry t'much about the weather. Zach's good 'nough for it, and he's also good 'nough t'know when not to fight it. We'll get there fine. * Erellisae nods slowly. ^^; ... * Dylan starts off towards the inn * Mikari eyes Nate curiously Nathan, what's wrong? Tip of the iceberg, that's all * Mitsuo gulps a bit. * Feray forces a smile onto her face, pushing off the railing, and strides to Nate, taking his hand and petting it. "C'mon, dear, let's go get a drink. I'll tell you about the time I wrestled a giant warthog." * Jalanda looks once more to the rolling waves, and then to the dark skies above for a long moment. She looks behind her to Nathan. "You are not alone in this storm, Nathan. Let us work quickly." * Nathan nods at Feray and Jalanda, still looking grim * Mitsuo blinks, "Guys!" * Jalanda heads off the ship into the town Yeah, Mitsuo? ...The stone...it's glowing a little! * Jalanda turns her head, stopping in her tracks. * Erellisae blinkblinks, then peers around Mitsuo at the stone. "Which direction?!" * Mitsuo points holds it up so everyone can see. The stone pulses very faintly with light. * Dylan turns around. I'm not...sure...I guess I could try to concentrate? Mitsuo, can you feel the one which calls to it? * Mikari suddenly narrows her eyes seriously and rushes up to observe the rock. Hold on... * Mitsuo closes his eyes, apparently concentrating. * Erellisae looks around frantically for any sign of Rion.. What the....O_o...It's coming from the direction of hte...docks? O_o * Nathan looks back at the sea for a moment, then follows the group ..? * Mitsuo suddenly breaks into a run, "C'mon! Follow me!" Perhaps he's come for "his" ship? * Erellisae races after Mitsuo, her hands glowing a faint silver. * Nathan runs after Mistuo * Dylan runs after Mitsuo * Feray dashes after Mitsuo... ...Erellisae, now might be a good time to gather your strength... * Mitsuo runs as fast as humanly possible. Again. * Erellisae chases after Mitsuo, her hands glowing a faint silver as she looks around for any sign of Rion. * Nathan does his best to keep up . o O ( I've got to find out the truth...I'm not letting you get away this time! This has got to stop! ) Mitsuo notices the stone pulse a little stronger as they near a stack of crates on the docks. * Jalanda advances slowly, cautiously. * Erellisae eyes the crates, and glances at Mitsuo... "Want me to... move them?" Yeah. Be careful. * Rion stands up from behind a crate, and turns to face the group.. * * Erellisae nods, and--... doesn't lob a Howl spell at the crates. "Rion!" o_O Don't come any closer. * Nathan represses the urge to throttle the little thief What? Why? Rion, do you have ANY idea what you've done? * Jalanda stops. "...Rion..." * Nathan grinds his teeth together * Mikari gets quiet again and silences her breathing reflexively, even though the others aren't bothering so she might as well talk.... * Erellisae stays exactly where she is. "Wait, Mitsuo... Rion... I wanna help you... Who's controlling you...?" * Rion nods. * I know exactly what I've done. It's you that don't. You're all okay? * Feray gently places a hand on Nate's arm... "You're aware the merpeople are going nuts, Ri...?" No thanks to you. Rion...you wanted to start a war with the Merpeople? O_o Is that what you're telling me?! * Nathan closes his eyes and starts counting to...something rather high * Erellisae shakes her head. "Mitsuo! Remember what Jalanda said..." I know...I know! But I don't know if he knows... No. They can have it back when it's no longer required. If I had been so uncaring, I would have bolted with the orb before we rescued the ones that were trapped. * Mikari narrows her eyes at Rion and lets the others talk first before she gets to her questions. Then who needs the orb? * Feray considers that... Then why? Tell us that much... * Jalanda looks at Rion. "Required by you, or the dark man who sits in your shadow..." ...Rion, if you didn't at least try to ask to borrow it beforehand, that's bloody stupid. * Mitsuo shakes his head. I can't tell you who. I can't tell you why. But it is required of me, yes.. there's so much you don't know.. and so much I can't say. But I never wanted any of you to get hurt. Why can't you tell us? We could help. * Feray gazes at Rion... Heh. That part isn't workin' very well either, y'know... Yeah, the entire merpopulation is after us. THey're also after you. . o O (456, 457, 458, 459, 460...) Because it's easiest if you don't get involved, Dylan. * Erellisae shakes her head. "We're involved!" Rion...? We're being chased down! You involved us when you left us there! We want to /help/! Indeed, we have two races of pec flexing aquatic psychos after our blood. We deserve answers I have made arrangements so that future merfolk invasion will be met with force. * Erellisae shakes her head, clutching at her side, still hurting from earlier. "If you don't let us help you we're going to get hurt... we /are/ being hurt... either way!" I have no interest in bloodshed.. but if thats what they want, then that is what is prepared to be delivered. Be met...with force? You're just going to let this bloodbath continue!? Future. Y'didn't bother t'think 'bout the here'n'now, though. Rion, not just merpeople will die, but humans! Lots of people! You can't do this! 'Sides, y'still started a war, like Mitsuo says... * Jalanda places a hand on her hip, looking at Rion like a mother would a child. "You have cast the stone into the pool.. and the ripples grow greater and greater. You will be overwhelmed. We shall be as well. The dark path will consume life for your dreams. Is this worth it for you?" The purpose for the orb can't be THAT important that lives will be lost over it! If they put down their weapons, then I will lower mine. And, as I said, once the orb has been used, then I will return it. Used for? I thought it's energy was lost, after saving the merfolk.. I cannot say. But it is not for a malicious purpose, I promise. Ugh. . o O (612, 613, 614, 615, 616...) If it is not malicious, then why will you not say? Because you do not need to know. Sorry, Dylan.. NEED! I DESERVE TO KNOW! YOU ALMOST GOT US KILLED! * Erellisae is standing with her eyes closed, fists clenched and glowing silver, trying to stop a tear. "...liar... you don't care if we're hurt or not..." Rion, who are you, really? At least tell me that much. * Rion's fool demeanour cracks for a moment. * I.. I didn't mean to.. You should have just let me take it.. * Mikari joins in Dylan's anger, silently, as he's already doing the talking -_-; * Mikari notes the change and watches carefully... Why are you here? If you didn't want to be found, we wouldn't have found you? * Mitsuo shakes his head, "You know why we couldn't let you take it..." . o O (745, 746, 747, 74f***ing8, 74f***ing9...) * Erellisae opens her eyes, crying now, and glares at Rion with fire in her eyes. "LIAR! You didn't mean to get us hurt? A couple of minutes ago I was lying unconscious on the deck of a ship thanks to a merman! A merman YOU made attack us! You LIAR, Rion!" * Jalanda narrows her eyes, and her right side shivers once. "You made the choice. If I did not want you to take it I would not have let go." * Dylan lays a hand on Erel's shoulder.. I wanted to.. to look out for you... if more of those merfolk came, I was prepared to end every last one of them.. I didn't want this violence.. They didn't have to react with rage.. but.. but I had to aqquire the Orb. Well, want it'r not, you got it. * Nathan starts to twitch If you want us safe, then let us help you. Until this is done with, we won't be safe. If you would still have us as friends... * Erellisae shakes her head, looking at the floor. "How can you look out for people you can't trust...? We want to help, Rion... let us. We're /friends/... aren't we..?" Every choice has a consequence. I can say so much Erel.. I want to.. but it would only lead to more questions.. We're not even an issue, really. RIon, they're going to attack EVERY ship that sails. EVERY ship. Familes, little kids...A lot of people who are not able to defend themselves will die. I think, as a 'Herald of Light' as you claimed you are, you do NOT want that. And for every ship they attack, one of their cities shall be mined and depth-charged into rubble. If you really thought the merpeople were just going to accept you taking hte orb without question, you were fooling yourself. * Erellisae looks determinedly at Rion, tears still streaking her cheek. "Then we'll help with THOSE questions. And the ones after. And I'll kick the butt of anyone who tries to stop me." * Jalanda stands there, continuing to stare at Rion... * Rion looks tired.. looks uncomfortable.. * ...There are also going to be a lot of innocent merpeople who will not fight and die needlessly. You want that too? Do not doubt us, if you reach out for help, we will not give up on you. Then tell them to go home.. I'll put the orb back when I'm done.. ...I wanna ring yer neck right now... but if it'll get those merpeople back'n the water, I'll help, this once. And when will that be, RIon? A week? A month? A year from now? Maybe a year.. maybe more.. I don't know.. you see, there's so much I don't know myself.. * Dylan holds out a hand * Erellisae shakes her head. "I'm not going to stop, Rion. I'm not going to leave you alone until you let me help. That's what friends are for. I never had any before I went on this adventure and I'm going to keep every single one of them. Let us help." Come to us. Friends we are still. But not if you hide from us. Rion...that's not acceptable and you know that...And how can you just blindly follow orders without knowing the truth? That makes no snese... * Mitsuo sighs and finally shuts up. ..but what if I have to vanish again, Erel? I don't want to see you left in another situation like that last one.. You don't know, Mitsuo.. you haven't lived my life. If you had, you might have understood.. I owe him.. * Erellisae grins, looking a little better, and shakes a finger at Rion. "You don't /have/ to vanish. I'll stick by you til the end." * Mikari stands quietly and taps her foot, her eyes uncharacteristically showing a hint of concern. * Nathan balls up a fist, still twitching . o O ( Him. Okay, good, that cuts out the female population. ) With us around, why would you have to vanish? * Jalanda remains there, almost unnaturally still, like she's searching in Rion's eyes for an answer. You say you owe him, but you must still be yourself, if chains are your burden, let us break the links, if hostages are held, we will rescue them. * Erellisae haltingly steps a little closer, smiling warmly despite her tears, holding a hand out. "Let us help, Rion. We won't let you down." ^^ You are not a pet on a leash, you are Rion! #4 Adventurer in New Parm! In yourself and us lies the chance to shakes stars from the sky, if only you work with us. . o O ( ... ) You don't really know me.. though most of my stories are true.. things that I've done.. places I've been.. who Rion really is, is a lie.. Who are you then, really? IF you are serious about not wanting us hurt...Then tell me the truth. Only then can I actually look you in the face. I have not listened to your tales, I have just seen you and your actions as you were with us. ... ..My name is Cassidy, Mitsuo. Heh. I'll second Dylan. Too many people like t'brag t'trust 'em all. * Mitsuo balks, "What? O_o" And that, there.. is just the tip of the iceberg. .....Cassidy? Perhaps, but what is in a name? * Erellisae smiles, shakes her head. "Then don't be Rion. Start over. And race me to the top of the Adventurers Guild as Cassidy, not as Rion." ...Guess that explains why Gantz said he was glad to finally speak to a guy. * Rion nods. * That was my secret back there on the ship, yes. ...And your story about the Herald of Light? Was that a lie too? No.. there's truth to that one.. though I cannot elaborate. It's not what you might think, though. * Mitsuo blinks a little. * Jalanda takes a step back. "It cannot be a lie. The star shines too brightly... this I know." Then let us find out. Trust us. ^^ * Mikari can't exactly see Rion in this light, and looks as though she is running through past scenes in her mind involving Rion....no, Cassidy. But... I endangered your lives. I might do so again, though I do not wish it. There are those among you who would see me strung up and disemboweled, or some damned thing. * Cassidy shoots a look at Nathan. * * Erellisae shakes her head, making an exasperated noise. "Haven't you been listening?" ...Know the feeling. You're endangering us MORE by continuing this! If we stick together, we can get through this, we can fix it! We can help you! Things can't ever be as they were.. I'm passed the strung up and disemboweled stage. I'm into the "I'm really dissapointed in you" stage. And if you but ask, then they will have to cut us down before that can occur, and with your aid, I'm sure that will prove impossible. * Feray rubs her arm, eyeing Cassidy curiously. But you moved a bit, so don't give up hope. *smiles a bit* * Jalanda lowers her head. "I understand now Rion... no, Cassidy." Are you certain you would want the company of someone who still has secrets she must keep? Tell us what you can, and we will help you, no man or woman can hide nothing, but we can only help with what you share. Um, call it a hunch, "Cass," but I think just 'bout everyone 'as secrets. * Erellisae smiles, glancing back at Mikari, then turning back to Cassidy. "I knew... I knew you must have a good reason, so it's okay." ^^ * Dylan reaches out his hand a little further. Not like I do, Miki.. Take my hand, rejoin us. No-one likes to be alone.. ...I'm not one hundred percent thrilled with this, and I don't fully trust you, but it's best right now for us to stick together, or the merpeople will eat us alive." * Cassidy considers a moment.. * * Mikari glances back at Erel, lets a slight bit o' smile cross her lips and replies to Cassidy. "'at may be, but 'sgotta be dealt with 'same as anyone else would 'ave to." Cassidy... for better or worse, I ma bound forever to watch your fate. Do not make me watch it from afar. No words shall we force from you, nor connive to slip from your lips, we will trust as well as we can, this I promise. * Mitsuo glances back at Nathan, knowing he'll be the hardest to convince. * Cassidy looks up into the sky.. * The Gallant is somewhere above us, and the Emperor and Garbaldi are en route.. * Erellisae looks around. "Everyone's helped me so much this adventure... they'll do the same for you. I know they will. Let them..." * Nathan has not budged an inch, nor lifted his gaze from 'Cassidy' for a moment Really? * Cassidy looks back.. * Then your choice ? Huh? ^^; Gallant...Emperor? What? * Mitsuo just shuts up. ^^; He may find out someday. * Erellisae looks concerned. "...do you really want to go back to being Rion?" * Jalanda looks up into the storm. "...so that is who I have foreseen. The shadow that comes...?" * Cassidy looks down.. * I.. I'm not sure.. I do as I'm ordered.. but there's no order saying I can't travel with you.. They're airships, Mitsuo, Jal.. big ones, just in case things get ugly.. Yes, I know all too well. * Mitsuo nods a little. Then? * Erellisae watches Cassidy. "You told me... a long time ago, that I shouldn't try to be Feena. Don't try to be Rion... Just be... you." * Cassidy slumps.. * If you're certain you want me. If any one of you doesn't, I can get a pickup to grab me. * Jalanda looks to Nathan. * Dylan looks around the group * Erellisae grins. "If any of the group don't I'll burnflare them off the pier.", she replies, looking only half joking. ^_^ * Feray takes a breath and slowly gives Cassidy a thumbs up... "To break the tension... I thought you were kinda cute as a guy...talk about mental confusion." ^^; * Mitsuo sighs, "I'll be watching you VERY closely for a while, Cassidy, but it's okay with me." Noble wolf of the sea, what do you choose? ...tell me something 'Cassidy', since you obviously chosen your own path regardless of any consequences, do you know of the great promise? * Cassidy shakes her head.. * I have spend my life immersed in the research of many things, many cultures, and many histories.. Though I might have heard of the Great Promise sometime in my past, I do not recall it now. Let me fill you in then Long ago, when the gods of the sea created Rorqual, the first Mer, it was decided that he was to be exterminated. Rorqual refused to accept that, and fought the gods, one by one, until he defeated them all. Rorqual then created the Mer race, and had them swear an oath. That promise was that no slight against the Merfolk shall ever be forgiven. We have kept that promise to this day. * Mikari blinks in surprise at Nathan's explanation We will not care of you bomb our cities into dust. We will not care if you slay our warriors and butcher our children. We will not care if you reduce the sea to a pool of blood. We shall not forgive this. * Erellisae looks more than a little worried. "Natham... let her redeem herself..." * Mitsuo's face darkens a bit, and he looks down. We have survived the Gods. We have survived the Angelou. We have survived Gaia. Twice. We shall not give in, not to you, or anyone else. * Jalanda accepts the explaination somberly. "By the honor of you and your people, I do not doubt this." But I'm sure you're okay with that 'Cassidy'. You've made that clear enough But, do you accept her as part of the group? I'm going to accept her anyway. If only for one reason. So that when the last of my people dies, I can be there to curse your name in person, before I die with them. * Dylan frowns. * Feray opens her mouth before slowly nodding... Then that, as they say, is that. Let's get inside before the storm breaks.. Natham... what if... we can help Cassidy? What if the orb can be replaced...? * Nathan facepalms Didn't you hear him, Erel? They won't forgive it anyway. * Erellisae sighs. "No way at all...?" :/ It's over. The damage is done, and it can't be fixed. Ever. * Dylan motions for Cassidy to come foward We promised Erel. We promised. Do not forgive me then. Hate me. Fine. I accept this. But do not attack the innocent men, women, and children in these towns, and ships on the sea. They are not me. Don't kill yourselves trying to get to me. Else in the future, yours shall be one of the cultures historians shall be studying.. and it is a beautful cuture and one that shouldn't be extinguished because they could not control their rage.. ...Cass has a point. * Mitsuo sighs, "Yeah, she does. There's not exactly a black and white to this, but there rarely is in war." Even if they're unforgiving, the mer's are attackin' a whole race. :P Unless he is King of the Sea, I doubt Nathan shall be making choices of war. * Erellisae nods with a heavy sigh, before walking to the edge of the docks and staring out into sea. No human leader even attacked the merfolks. Just... well... Rion, sorta. You wouldn't happen to be able to prevent attacks or such, Nathan? They will not listen to me. Not anymore * Mikari feels tempted to follow Erellisae... In their eyes I have betrayed them I thought not. * Jalanda lowers her head. "If such is the case... then let us seek Truth, before Justice. Or else, this act will never be repayed..." Nathan... * Dylan pulls his cloak around him.. * Feray chews her bottom lip but lightly touching Nathan's arm once more. ".....let's go inside..?" Now, Cassidy, come forward, and we shall begin preparations for tomorrow, and all days hence. * Erellisae cries out, her hands glowing with bright red energy, as she flings one hand forward, a fiery explosion erupting in the sky. Seconds later, a second joins the first, the two burnflame spells glowing brightly in the air as she watches them, breathing heavily from the mental exertion. * Mikari turns around and takes a few steps towards Erellisae...then jumps a foot in the air, startled. O_o * Feray blinks and sweatdrops. * Mitsuo blinks at Erel, "Whoa!" An echo of thunder responds in the distance. * Erellisae takes a deep sigh... then turns around to face the group, smiling and looking recovered. "There! I needed that." She rubs the back of her head, sweatdropping. ^^; I uh...wouldn't do that. ^^: Try not to do that except into the sea.. * Mitsuo coughs, "I'm freezing. Let's head back to the inn." ...agreed. There is nothing more to be gained out here Indeed. Yeah. Peoplesicles won't get through this any easier. * Dylan starts off towards the inn * Cassidy looks out to the sea.. * * Nathan turns and heads for the Inn The rain increases and the thunder rumbles more often as they head for the inn. * Cassidy turns to follow.. * * Erellisae nods, and hangs back, waiting for Cassidy. I'm not sure 'bout the sea either, if there're merpeople there.... ah, hell. * Feray stops Cassidy, touching her shoulder. "I'm glad you came clean, even about this. I respect you, despite your misgivings, and I hope we can be friends, Cass..." * Feray turns and heads for the Inn. * Cassidy looks down.. * * Jalanda stands there, the rain pelting her face as she looks heavenward. "...soon enough, soon enough..." * Jalanda eyes Cassidy, closes her eyes briefly, then goes towards the inn with a slight hobble. * Erellisae steps up to Cassidy. "C'mon... let's go back." ^^ * Mitsuo stops just as he's about to enter the inn, stares at Cass for a moment, then heads inside. * Dylan stops outside the inn, making sure everyone goes inside.. * Cassidy nods, smiling a bit.. totally different than the grin of Rion. * * Erellisae nods. "That's better!" :D * Mikari jokes... "Hmm... You're gonna have to get some dressin' tips from Erel now if you're actin' like that, heh." * Dylan scratches a symbol in the air, and mutters a prayer.. Oh no.. nothing quite like that. ^^; ... dressing tips? * Erellisae, thanks to the rain, is doing a good impression of a drowned rat. Where will this end.. and will I be there to see it? I mean, well, she's got a hint'a that godawfully cute thing goin'... well, ne'ermind. Heh. . o O (All that work, gone. Whatever Cassidy has started, I hope its worth the cost...please let it be worth the cost) * Mikari shakes her head and half-smiles, following the others in to the dryness of the inn. * Dylan leans against the doorframe, keeping an eye on Cass and Erel * Jalanda staggers once, putting a cold hand on Dylan. "Yes, you will." * Erellisae waves to Dylan, and calls. "We'll follow you in!" * Dylan raises an eyebrow I'll stay here for a bit, the rain's rhythm is soothing. * Jalanda disappears into the inn soon after... * Mikari exits the scene and enters the inn, glad to get out of the rain despite her usual indifference towards weather... * Dylan half-closes his eyes, wrapped in a thick waxed cloak. ==Session End== *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 14.0: The Approaching Storm | Location: Sarsen Inn, evening, June 25 | Session End' Session Close: Sat Jan 19 01:12:26 2002