Session Start: Fri Feb 01 19:27:24 2002 *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 16.0: The Cobalt Guard | Location: Cobalt Guard Talachian Base, noon, June 27 | Session Start' ==Session Staato!== Our heroes are gathered in the common area of the suite of rooms they were given, relaxing (or trying to) as the morning passes and no word is received. They were brought breakfast this morning, but aside from this, they have been left alone....no one has come to speak to them about there reasons for being there. * Nathan sits and fidgets, feeling somewhat uncomfortable about all this * Dylan is quietly sewing patches onto some of the more worn sections of his clothing * Mitsuo quietly sits, starting at his shoes. * Jalanda has been sitting silently most of the time, rolling her small crystal ball over in her hands several times... After a while, there is the sound of booted feet in the hall, and a loud, business-like knock at the door.... . o O (Finally...) * Mitsuo looks up, "..." Yes? * Jalanda puts her artifact away for now, though everyone can tell there is something fresh in her mind. * Feray blinks and lifts her face to gaze at the door, her legs dangling dangerously over the top of a chair. Nali enters, then makes a strange sort of salute, half a bow. [Nali] My apologies for keeping you waiting. News of your arrival has reached our commander, and he wished to meet you himself. He has asked me to bring you to join him for luncheon, if you would.... * Nathan hops out of his chair * Mikari gets up, yawns briefly, and walks over to meet with the rest of them. * Feray hops up from her chair, knocking it over but catching it and setting it upright once more. ^^ * Dylan does a couple of quick stitches before knotting off the thread and packing away the shirt Lead the way then * Jalanda bows her head, arising from her sitting position slowly. "I see." * Mitsuo nods. Luncheon...all this seriousness makes me hungry... let's go. ^^ * Erellisae hops to her feet, nodding. ^^ "Let's go then." :D Nali nods. [Nali] If you would please follow me, then.... *She turns toward the door, looking over her shoulder to see that they follow. * Mitsuo stands up, and quietly follows, lost in thought. * Dylan follows * Cassidy strolls into the room, clad in a snappy little uniform, ready to follow Nali. * Alright, let's get this show on the road. * Nathan follows feeling hungry despite his reservations * Jalanda follows Nali without much arguement... Nali's stride is quick and business-like as she leads them out of the now-unlocked main door and down several twisting, turning corridors. The base is built deep into the cliff face, and the walls now are stone as often as not. Torches line many of the walls, but occasionally there are strange glowing lights of unknown nature. * Feray raises an eyebrow at Cass' outfit but follows along. * Nathan walks next to Feray, "How'd you sleep, if at all?" * Feray leans forward, conspiratorily whispering to Nate. * Mikari turns and notices Cassidy's new uniform. She whistles quietly at it in jest. "Nice duds." * Erellisae tries to follow their path, quickly getting confused amongst the passageways. ^^; Well, we're goin' to see the head man, and I hadn't worn this in a while.. so I figured it was special occasion enough. * Feray draws back, a playful grin on her face. * Nathan laughs quietly * Jalanda mumbles something faintly to herself, then helps keep Erellisae on track. ^^ You would ^_- In a heartbeat. ^_- * Dylan raises an eyebrow, worriedly Finally Nali stops, then pushes open some large, double doors and leads them into a great banquet hall. The room is well-lit, and although there are no windows, it is hung with colorful drapes of varying shades of blue, with silver and black embellishments. The table is laid with fine silver and china, and at the head, their host stands to greet them... * Mikari makes a look of mild confusion at Feray and Nathan before taking a good look at the hall. "...Ahh, nice grub hall." * Jalanda raises her head to gaze upon the hall, lavender eyes tarcing every embelishment of the room until they reach the figure at it's head. * Dylan looks at the host with interest Gyan Amsered gives them all a wry smile. [Gyan] Well met, friends. I am pleased to see you. Please, have a seat. *He gestures to the table.* * Mitsuo's eyes widen and he blinks. O_o ... * Nathan blinks. A lot * Feray stares for a moment, some of her cheer fading slightly. ^^; Well, this is unexpected Nali guides Cassidy up to a seat near Gyan, then gestures for the others to take their seats as they please. * Erellisae waves to Mr. Gyan. ^^ Gyan smiles back warmly to Erellisae. * Feray quickly sits down. ^^; I...I...wha? Sir Gyan... * Mitsuo quickly sits down, still semi-shocked o_o * Cassidy quietly takes a seat at Gyan's side. * * Erellisae smiles, and sits down at the table, glancing around at the hall. * Mikari is frozen, her mind looking for an explanation. * Nathan sits down, wondering where this is going . o O (... ... so that's how this plays. That explains the letter. Well, at least he isn't out to kill us. I think. .....man, he looks good in uniform......clean thoughts, Feray.) [Gyan] It appears that you weren't expecting to see me. I understand. *chuckles* But please, make yourselves at home so we may talk. Lunch will be served shortly...I hope it is to your liking. * Feray rubs her forehead with her fingers and brightens at the mention of lunch. ^^ * Jalanda doesn't looks quite as shocked as one would expect, calmly taking a seat. "I see I was not in error about your hidden strength." * Dylan finds himself a seat, stroking his chin thoughtfully (mutters) ...military... Well, at least that rules out my theory that you were secretly trying to kill us all. ^^; Feray! ^^; What? It's true! * Nathan chuckles Mr. Gyan wouldn't! ^^ ... right? ^^; [Gyan] Hidden strength? Well, that is one way to put it. *smiles* But...no, Miss Feray, I was never trying to secretly kill you. Actually, I have been following your progress for some time...and I have been thinking about how I might aid you. * Nathan raises an eyebrow You've been...watching our progress? * Jalanda perks a slightly pointed ear at the mention of this. * Feray rests her chin in her hand and nods slightly.. Still, myself, I think I'd like a good 'n' thorough explanation /before/ eatin' my lunch... After a few minutes, some servants dressed in dark blue enter, setting several dishes out on the table and filling their glasses with wine. They bow, then exit, quickly and silently. [Gyan] How about as we eat, Miss Mikari? I don't know about you, but I'm starving. ^^ * Nathan looks at the food for a moment, shrugs, and digs in * Feray eyes the wine for a moment before sipping it tentively. ^^ [Gyan] And yes, Mitsuo, in a manner of speaking. Every now and then I hear from Cassidy here about how you've been doing, where you are, such things like that. ...You hear from Cassidy? Gyan reaches over to the dishes and helps himself to some roast potatoes, orange-glazed chicken, and some other interesting looking foods. * Mitsuo glances over to Cassidy for a moment, then back at Gyan, pondering something. * Erellisae nods. "Thought so...", she murmurs, before shrugging and digging in. ^^ [Gyan] Once in a while, yes. You did know she was in my employ, I understand... I assumed once you told me that... * Mikari shrugs. "I don't really care either way, as I'm more hungry for answers 'an lunch..." * Dylan picks at the food slowly [Gyan] So....perhaps a more complete explanation would be welcome. Where shall I begin? The beginning is a good place [Gyan] The beginning. *He smiles and arches an eyebrow wryly* But the beginning of what? Of my own work? Of your journey? Of my life's story? * Cassidy minds her manners as she eats, vastly different than the voracious approach of Rion. * Jalanda sips some of the wine politely, listening. * Feray grins wryly. "Your work would be nice....we could save the life story for dessert." Gyan chuckles. [Gyan] Very well, then... * Erellisae eyes her wine, raises an eyebrow, and slides the glass away from Mitsuo a little as she settles to listen. ^^; [Gyan] As you can see, this is one of our main bases. We are not exactly a political entity; it's more of a private organization that is somewhat military in nature. We do, however, have certain treaties with the nations we are based in, though I will admit they are perhaps not fully conscious of our numbers. Fewer questions that way. I do hate red tape... * Mikari nods stoically. * Mitsuo reaches out for his wine, only to grasp empty air. He blinks. . o O ( ...Eh? ) * Feray looks amusedly at Mitsuo and Erel ^^ * Mitsuo glances around a bit and his eyes settle on Erel. o_o . o O ( ...No way. She doesn't want my wine for herself, does she? O_o ) [Gyan] As for the Guard's purpose...well, that gets rather complicated. How much do you know your history? Let's see....I suppose it really all begins back in the age of Angelou.... * Nathan listens quietly * Mitsuo turns back around to Gyan, intrested now, "Really? That long ago?" * Erellisae leans sideways, about to murmur something to Mitsuo before her ears perk up at the mention of Angelou. o_O Gyan nods, politely finishing a bite of potatoes before continuing. [Gyan] Let me see, where to start. Well then, tell me. Have any of you ever heard of a race of people called the Lumians? * Jalanda still maintains a respect silence, hearing him out... * Feray 's ears twitch slightly as she listens, gazing at Gyan curiously. * Dylan shakes his head slowly * Jalanda mouths softly. "...the ones who watch...?" Lumians. I've heard mention. ...A little... But not a lot, no. [Gyan] Well, the name is not very well known anymore. Scholars are really the only ones who know of the Lumian race. But I'm sure you've all heard of one, at least....and many believe she is the last left alive of that ancient race. Liete, guardian of Alent, is a Lumian.... « Then she probably just knows the name and, if applicable, a general location, plus fairly common knowledge about legends 'n' stuff... » Liete, she who watches from heaven.... yes, I know of her. Liete...*nods* Yeah, I've heard of her. * Erellisae grins. "Of course I've heard of her!" :D * Dylan nods * Jalanda turns to Erellisae, smiling slightly at her enthusiasm. I have heard... far too much about her.. Gyan smiles. [Gyan] Oh? Tell me, young Erellisae, what is your impression of Liete? . o O ( Dorlin ^^;;;; ) Liete. Yeah, if nothin' else I'm sure Erel mentioned it in one of her babbles... *cracks a slight smile at her* * Feray quietly eats.. ^^; Gyan chuckles. [Gyan] Oh yes, I have been dragged into many a conversation with your kinsman, Dylan. * Erellisae thinks for a while, looking unusually serious. "... well... I don't know, really. I had to learn that things aren't always quite like the books tell them... so I'd have to meet her to be sure. ^^ But... she seemed lonely, on Alent..." * Jalanda looks up to nothing in particular. "Alent... hmm..." Gyan frowns. [Gyan] Lonely...yes, that is an accurate description, I would say. Let me tell you something of the history of the Lumians... [Gyan] They were a special race. Not all followed the same path, but many did, and it was the right of the Lumians alone to serve as priests and priestesses to the Icarians, in ages past. They were guides and servants both, as well as guardians of the history and mystical knowledge of Angelou and the uses of the Spirit Stone. * Mitsuo nods a little. [Gyan] When Gaia was created and the civilization of Angelou faced destruction, it was the Lumians who stayed behind in the capital city as Gaia advanced, frantically attempting to save what they could of the history and knowledge they guarded. * Erellisae nods, thinking. ^^ ...And I assume many died for their efforts? * Jalanda parts from her musings, to the matter in the here and now. . o O (That's a familiar story) * Mikari nods. "Y'know your history 't least..." [Gyan] There were two major cities ruled by the Lumians: Alent and Zil Padon. Zil Padon was home to the Shrine of Wisdom, and Alent the Shrine of Knowledge. Zil Padon was called by a different name in those days, a name long since forgotten. Both were floating cities, on either side of the capital of Angelou, and reachable only by those chosen to enter the cities. Gyan nods to Mikari. [Gyan] I have spent much of my life researching history, yes. * Jalanda nods... * Mitsuo blinks. The legends of the Mogay speak of the time when Zil padon once was Alent's sister city, before the great fall... [Gyan] The Mogay also know their history, Miss Jalanda. But Zil Padon could not be saved. Some of its knowledge was preserved, but not all. It was first in the path of Gaia's advance, and it was destroyed, crashing to the ground. Time passed, and eventually the Mogay volunteered to guard the Shrine of Wisdom, after a later generation attempted to misuse the abandoned shrine. Zil Padon was built on top of it. * Mikari nods and starts taking a few pieces of food, figuring that no evil military leader would waste this much breath on a history lesson -- he wouldn't have time to brag before the poison took effect. [Gyan] Alent, however, was saved in time. The Lumians used their own magical power- which was considerable- to raise the floating city far above the clouds, to where Gaia's evil power could not reach it. There the knowledge of Angelou was preserved, tended by a guardian chosen from the Lumians: Liete. * Jalanda leans back in her chair a fair bit, nodding once to this response. * Erellisae watches the table, tracing a finger round in a slow pattern as she listens and thinks. So that's how it happened...intresting. [Gyan] However, the Lumians had no time to escape after they had sent Alent to safety. Their race was wiped out, and no trace of them has been seen since.... * Dylan scratches at one of his horns absentmindedly. And so it remains far above the clouds, the eternal legacy of what once was.... a lonely sentinel in time... * Mikari lets out a little yawn. Boredom has started to overcome suspicion as the foremost emotion at this time. She's not one for long lectures. * Jalanda exhales slightly. * Nathan ceases eating, concentrating on Gyan's words Gyan nods. [Gyan] Yes, so it is. An honorable pursuit, the preservation of knowledge...but at what cost? An entire race, lost. One woman's life dedicated to a twisted kind of immortality and solitude. The sealing away of knowledge, so that when it was needed, it was almost not found in time. Indeed, many lives might have been saved if the Lumian race had survived. If Liete came down with Justin and Feena, then surely Alent is now empty? * Feray is still listening, stabbing a piece of chicken idly with her fork. Gyan shakes his head. [Gyan] She came down, it is true, and she met with many important leaders. But eventually she returned to Alent, and she has not been heard from in several years. ... Rapp said none of them had heard much of Liete recently... ... . o O ( Why would she choose to stay up there...? ) Heh. I'll bet Alent's got hoardes'a valuable relics. But Justin pro'ly cleaned 'em out. Gyan shrugs. [Gyan] There are many questions without answers. Our goal is to find those answers, and to do what we can to right the wrongs of the past, to regain the knowledge that was lost even as its keepers attempted to preserve it, and to safeguard the world against any similar threats in the future. ... ...regaining that which was lost. * Erellisae blinks, then o_O's at Mikari. "You couldn't take Alent's treasures..! They're... they're... /Alent's treasures/!" o_O Gyan nods, waiting for their questions. How does this link to stealing cultural artifacts? Gyan chuckles softly at Mikari's comment. Er. No comment, Erel. ^^; [Gyan] Cultural artifacts...? Ah, you mean the Orb? ... [Gyan] Let me see, how to put it... * Jalanda closes her eyes, thinking. . o O (This should be enlightening) * Mikari makes a mental note to try to teach Erel about the concept of Finder's Fee, later... * Mitsuo listens. [Gyan] The greatest race and the greatest magic belong to the Icarians, you understand- Icarian powers and the power to use the Spirit Stone. The Stone could not be used without the Icarians. Similarly, the Lumians had the greatest magical power of any race, save the Icarians. [Gyan] And their artifacts, the ones they held as their own, were the three Dimension Orbs. One of these you know; the villagers of Dight call it the Teleportation Orb. The second is the Blue Orb, which you recently encountered, if I am not mistaken. Indeed * Erellisae thinks. "...so where's the third?" * Mikari nods. "I'll second Erel." "The three Dimension Orbs will have lost their power, but when humanity rises to claim the future, the Spirits' power will fill them once more, opening their hidden pathways to the world once again..." Gyan shrugs. [Gyan] I don't yet know. I am looking for it, but as yet I have only leads. Indeed, that is one reason I wished to speak with all of you... * Mitsuo tries to think of what the writing said in the ruined temple. ... you want us to go search for it? :D Gyan nods. [Gyan] Indeed, Jalanda. Slightly different wording, but the very prophecy I have discovered in my own research. Interesting, however, that the prophecy came from a time even before Angelou...as did the Orbs themselves. They are an ancient treasure, you see... Eh? Y'wanna pay us to look for it? We're sorta already lookin' for Justin and Feena. He shakes his head. [Gyan] No, I did not exactly wish you to /search/ for the Orb...but I have a possible lead that I thought some of you might know more about. At this rate, I'll need to write of list of requests made to us. ... * Jalanda blinks a few times. . o O ( Something about this... ) * Mitsuo looks a bit distant, thinking. Are we to start a genocidal war with birdmen now? [Gyan] Now, I will assume you know at least a little of the local geography. Right now you are here.... *stabs his forefinger onto the table* ....on the eastern edge of the Talachian continent. A great center of civilization; nearby is the capital, and leader in technology in the western world. Gyan just gives Dylan a confused look. Nevermind. [Gyan] Hopefully all your questions will be answered soon. [Gyan] Talachia's power diminishes as you go west, and eventually you reach the frontier lands. Settlers often explore these lands, but beyond the deserts lie dangerous jungles and mountains. Deep in the heart of these jungles live a race of people known as the Tenkali. * Mikari lowers her brow and nods, taking a slow bite of chicken * Feray blinks. * Erellisae thinks, murmuring mostly to herself. "Lands waiting to be explored... you think maybe we'll find them there...?" [Gyan] There are stories that this mysterious people have an ancient artifact, whose power they use to keep the Talachians at bay. Some say they have a strong affinity with the jungle, and can command the very trees to attack anyone who threatens their land. * Jalanda finally speaks. "Feena is in these lands, of this I am certain." * Dylan whispers to Erel "Spicy food, hot, humid weather, and me, collapsing in the heat." Are you *certain*, Ms. Jalanda? Jalanda's normally right... ^^ * Mitsuo nods to Jalanda, trusting her completely. Gyan looks curiously at Jalanda, glancing at her out of the corner of his eye, but continues with his explanation. Although.. this is our best lead.. it would draw either of their attention.. * Mikari hesitates while eating, but continues to listen quietly. * Feray says nothing but her cheer has gone and she instead slowly drags her fork through the ragged remains of her chicken. * Jalanda glances a bit to Gyan, looking out of the corner of her eye as well. [Gyan] If the need were not so urgent, I would have been more diplomatic about obtaining the Blue Orb. The results of this trouble me greatly, and I will do my best to smooth things over. I have no wish to cause a similar disturbance with the Tenkali, if indeed they do possess the third Orb. * Nathan stifles a laugh Eh. You're lucky. They're not like th' mers... so I've heard. Gyan finishes his meal and carefully lays his silver down on the empty plate, then folds his napkin on top of it. Clasping his hands on the table in front of him, he waits for comments and questions. I wish you luck with your ambitions Gyan, but such a middleground my be difficult to achieve. Actions have consequences, and people do not easily change... He raises his eyebrow at Nathan, a quirk of a smile on his face. [Gyan] Is something amusing to you? * Cassidy sits quietly, yet attentively. * Was this what you wanted to speak to Mikari about? Actually yes, but I doubt it's of much importance now * Feray pauses and decides Nate won't leap over and break Gyan's face ^^; Well... No problem! :D We'll go see the Tenkali, and ask about the orb, and on the way we can search for Justin and Feena, right? Then everyone's happy, right? :D * Mitsuo is still rather distant in thought. Gyan nods silently to Dylan, then turns to Jalanda. [Gyan] This I well know. But I believe there is a higher good in my goals, and I will attempt to right any wrongs that are inadvertently committed along the way. Gyan shrugs at Nathan. [Gyan] Very well then... * Mikari eyes Nathan and Dylan with a slight frown, then turns back to Gyan. Gyan waits, eyeing Mikari cooly. * Mitsuo bites his lip, wondering if she should say what's on his mind. * Nathan considers things * Jalanda narrows her eyes abit to Gyan, speaking with a slight tone of warning. "Tread lightly and do not forget this, for many traps are laid at your feet." So what do you want us to do? Investigate the possible third orb? Well, why not? ^^ We're heading that way anyways... Gyan nods seriously. [Gyan] Fear not, Miss Jalanda, I weigh the risks and consequences of all my actions. * Mikari is unusually quiet. Well, that is, if it were unusual for her to be quiet in the first place... *Turns to Nathan* [Gyan] Well, all I really wish to ask is that Miss Mikari act as a go-between to speak to the Tenkali for me. I hope to discover if they possess the Orb, and if they do, to obtain it as amicably as possible. I believe Miss Mikari may be able to help me do so. * Mitsuo looks rather uncomfy. Hmm... * Mikari pauses. ...Why me? Y'think just because I got dark skin I know all 'bout them?.. * Erellisae thinks, then grins. "Well, let's go search for the orb /and/ for Justin and Feena! They're probably close to where the orb'll be, so we'd be doing both missions! And... I'd loove to go to Alent..." *_* Alent is... quite some way away. Gyan shakes his head. [Gyan] It is not only dark skin. Your features are highly similar to the Tenkali, and from what I have discovered when gathering information, I believe your family came from western Talachia originally....everything I have found leads me to believe you are a descendant of their race. Gyan chuckles at Erellisae's fervor. ...Um. Erel. Nice plan, but that'll only work if they're in th'same place. ^^; Well... Jalanda said... ^^; * Feray leans back in her chair, rubbing her tattooed arm and considering before shrugging, deciding she'll go wherever the group is * Jalanda mumbles to herself slightly. "...the green star shines upon the hill, the blue star shines beneath the waves, and the red star shines beneath the sands..." * Mikari suddenly feels as if everyone's eyes are piercing her, and shows it in her actions. * Mitsuo remains quiet. Pensive. * Nathan closes his eyes and considers things Well, it's up to Ms. Mikari wether she wishes to act as a delegate. What the cow said. ^^; Though, I've gotta say, Gyan... Gyan raises an eyebrow. [Gyan] Yes, Miss Feray? For all your fanciness and promp politeness...the chicken is a little dry. ^_- ...Delegate. * Nathan laughs! * Dylan hrmpfs Gyan chuckles. [Gyan] Do forgive me...I will be sure to speak to the kitchen staff about it later. * Jalanda hasn't really touched any of her food... * Feray winks and relaxes a little back into her somewhat cheery persona, linking her hands on her slender abs as she waits for the group to decide what it wants to do. ^^; I'm willing to go along with this, if Mikari is willing to go along with it...and there's no artifact snatching ...Feh.... Fine, I'll go; maybe they'll be more friendly t'me even though I haven't spent a moment there'n my life. But other'n that, don't expect much. I don't know much about 'em. ...Don't worry, Nate. I only steal fr'm dead people. Gyan nods. [Gyan] I understand, Miss Mikari. But any way of approaching them will be better than the standstill I am at now. ^^; All things considered, you are closest to this place in spirit, Mikari... ...I'll come along. . o O ( If only to make sure nothing bad happens. ) Of /course/ I'm coming! :D * Mikari taptaps the table, seeming oddly irritated ^^; [Gyan] Well then. Shall I offer you aid? Transportation, supplies, escort...? Or would you prefer to continue on your journey much as you have been? «ooc: I'm tempted to have poppycorn, but I shouldn't. It'll prolly hurt my colon ^^ » * Jalanda looks at Erel again, some of the excitement seeping into her, and lightening her heavy mind with another very small smile. So, we'll travel there in search of Justin and Feena, and make as much effort as we see fit to acquire the Orb amicably? * Feray considers the offer of supplies. Supplies would be good to have I must go as well. Mistakes shall not be repeated... and what is lost lies there. Supplies would be most useful, Transportation would be useful in light of Jalanda's premonitions. Do you wish to pick up the trail where we were waylaid? Or do we wish to travel directly to the jungles? Gyan nods. [Gyan] My storehouses will be opened to you, so you may update your equipment as you see fit. Thank you very much, sir. Now that sounds good... Ahhh...just the words I was hoping to hear. ^_- Gyan shrugs. [Gyan] It is entirely up to you. If you have need to visit the capital of Talachia, I can drop you off there. Or I can see you directly to western Talachia, to the border settlements. * Nathan thinks * Jalanda bows her head. "Your charity is flattering, and welcome. Though I do not require much for myself." Perhaps going to the capitol would be best. We could conduct some research there before going on With the offer of expedient travel, it would be a wise choice. Gyan waits while they discuss, closing his eyes and frowning slightly, absorbed in some strange thought of his own. * Mitsuo glances at Gyan sliently, pondering himself. Gyan opens his eyes and gives Mitsuo a very odd look...making Mitsuo very uneasy. Gyan looks at him as if he knows something... * Mitsuo shrinks back a bit, gulping, and turns away. Gyan taps his fingers thoughtfully on the table, very softly, thinking to himself. You can almost hear the wheels turning in his head. ^^ Well... uh... now what? ^^; * Nathan looks at Cassidy, noting that she's said little So, to the capital it is? * Mikari turns her head towards Mitsuo with interest. * Jalanda glances towards Gyan as Mitsuo shrinks back... it is a level look, as if she knows something as well. ^^ * Mitsuo begins to act like Mikari did earlier, not liking all this staring, and taps his fingers against the table. ^^; Gyan seems unconcerned by Jalanda's gaze. * Feray raises an eyebrow at all the looks going back and forth and considers showing everyone what she can do with two forks and her breasts. * Cassidy remains silent and attentive, having long finished her meal. She just sits there, her hands folded in her lap. * Sooo.... * Mitsuo turns to Feray, "Soooo?" Either we get a move on, because frankly...dramatic pauses are so passe ^_- Or... Let's go! C'mon, c'mon! :D We could sit here and I could show you one of my bar tricks ^_- * Mitsuo grins, "Bar trick. ^_-" * Feray winks at Mitsuo. "I'll need two forks...and some wine!" ^_- * Dylan taps his fingers on the table briefly To the capital then? Gyan chuckles. [Gyan] Well, if I might make a small request, it would be best if you left in the morning, or at the soonest late this afternoon. I have preparations to make, and I wish to speak with one or two of you privately, if that is all right... Ah ^^; * Mitsuo hands her two forks and takes his wine glass from Erel, handing it to Feray. ^_- Sounds fair enough * Feray blinks at Mitsuo, having not expected him to follow through ;) ...Alright. * Mitsuo smiles a bit, "We need some cheer. ^^" ...Feray, what are you doin'? * Cassidy clears her throat. * Somehow I am thinking that such barroom antics might not be so apropriate here. * Erellisae blinks, then tilts her head slightly. "One or two?" Thanks, Cass. ;) * Dylan stands up.. Gyan says nothing. We are your guests, it is not an unfair request... * Mitsuo grins a bit, "Perhaps later then. ^_-" * Nathan chuckles Well, Mikari...you ever hear the term 'popping grapes with melons'? So. If everyone has eaten, shall we prepare for travel? Gyan nods. [Gyan] Specifically, I wished to speak with you, Miss Erellisae... * Jalanda folds her hands in her lap... * Erellisae blinks, then nods. "Uh... okay..?" ...And there was one more person. I assume it's Cassidy? * Mikari pauses, says nothing, then rolls her eyes and covers her forehead with one hand. 9_9 Gyan nods. [Gyan] Well then, perhaps if the rest of you would like to follow Nali to the storerooms and choose your equipment, I might have a short talk with your friend...? «ooc: Amy, didn't Gyan want to speak with one more person? ^^ » [Gyan] And as for the second person, well, it is not entirely necessary. I was merely curious to speak with you, Mitsuo, but it is only a curiosity. * Erellisae nods, turning to the others. "I'll catch up with you. And don' worry, I'll be okay... if you see a big explosion, something happened." ^_^ * Mitsuo blinks a bit, "I...sure, I suppose." * Nathan stands and pushes his seat back under the table ...try not to light things on fire, Erel. ^^; * Mitsuo stands up, "I'll let you speak alone to Erellisae first. Should I wait somewhere where you can find me easily?" No toasting the host, Ms. Erellisae, even if he could do with a tan. * Feray twirls the two forks in a dizzying display of skill before placing them down on the table once more.. Nali stands at the door in a very military manner. [Nali] Whenever you are ready, please follow me. * Erellisae pouts. "Everyone always spoils my fun..." Gyan waves a hand dismissively. [Gyan] Join your friends in selecting new equipment. Nali will show you back here later. All right. I'll see you later then, Mister Gyan Sir. * Mitsuo bows a bit polietly and joins miss Nali * Jalanda arises from her seat a bit reluctantly, but nods in agreement to Gyan. Before she departs, she looks down to Erellisae and places her rather pale right hand on the small mage's shoulder... * Dylan will follow Nali when she leaves * Nathan stands ready to go Heh, Feray, are ya demonstratin' your mastery of cutlery? * Syri hops in the door and into Mitsuo's arms! ^-^ * Erellisae smiles up at Jalanda, with a wink and a final "Don't worry!". ^_^ Yeah, I'm skilled like that. ^_- Careful, I'm lethal with spoons. ^_- * Nathan chuckles at Freay ^_^ * Mikari grins amusedly and snorts lightly « Feray is spoony! » * Feray stands and stretches before wandering to the door, placing her hands on her hips. ^^ Gyan waits patiently. * Jalanda is shushed by Erellisae, giving her a final small smile, then turning to depart with a slight bow to Gyan. Nali opens the door and leads them out, toward the storerooms. ..Sir..? * Mitsuo grins at Syri, "You finally woke up this morning, huh? ^^ You didn't miss much." [Gyan] Yes, Cassidy? Kwuu! Kwuu kwuu kwuu! Kwu kwuuuuuuu? My orders, sir? Nali blinks at the small animal distastefully. * Syri blinks at Nali distastefully. * Mitsuo blinks at Nali and holds his carro protectively. ^^; * Feray gets a sly look and leans over against Mitsuo, draping an arm over his shoulders. "You've got guts, 'suo." [Gyan] Hmmm. Keep in touch, as usual....report anything of interest. Follow up on any lead that may be related to the Red Orb. And hmmm..... *he winks* Have a happy birthday. ^_- Yeah, anyway, Syri, you didn't miss much. But I swiped you a few pine nuts from the orange chicken we had. ..? Nali shrugs and decides to ignore the animal. * Cassidy smiles warmly and nods. * Yes sir. ^^ Kwuuuu. ^^ * Mikari looks at Syri with a slight smile, actually relieved to have a definitively non-serious element in the room. I may require further clarification later, and I may have something you may wish to act upon, though I cannot be sure. But it can wait. * Mikari turns to Cass while walking out. "Your birthday, eh... heh, that entitles ya to a bit of my home brew later." * Jalanda looks behind her briefly. "May you have ten times ten years, Cassidy." [Gyan] Of course, Cassidy. If you have a moment, perhaps you might speak to me in private later. If not, I will contact you with further details later on. * Mitsuo blinks, "Birthday, huh? Hmm." * Nathan looks over at Cassidy, "Your birthday..?" * Cassidy smiles again. * I'll endeavour to make sure it happens, sir. * Cassidy turns to the others, smiling still. * Yes. ^^; I fear, Mikari, ma'am, that my own tollerance is about as good as Rion's. ^^;; I'm curious, Cassidy...What day is your birthday? So I'll know when to get you a present. ^_- * Mikari nods. "Then y'get a thimblefull. Still worth it. Heh..." ^_^ * Jalanda looks behind her another moment, her eyes breifly falling on Gyan and Erel, but she departs from the hall soon enough. * Syri starts chewing on Mitsuo's hand * Mitsuo erks and tries not to chuckle, "Syri... ^^;" It's actually the 5th of next month, Mistuo.. but since this'll likely be the last time I'll see Gyan before then, I guess now is close enough for him. ^^; * Mitsuo 's face blanks a bit and he blinks, "...Oh?" * Erellisae watches Jalanda leave, nodding slightly. Ah. No booze for you today, 'en. * Nathan grins a little, and continues following Nali ...I...uh... I'll see you later then, I guess...uh... * Mitsuo looks a bit flustered, and decides to just follow Nali. * Feray rubs her forehead for a moment, going quiet as she follow Nali.. Relax Mits...he doesn't bite ^_- * Syri looks a bit carro-like, and decides to stay right where he is - in Mitsy's grasp. ^^ ...Er...that's not why I'm flustered now. Guess it's just a small world. Hm. Hm? ...She has the same birthday as me. ^^; I guess that means we're going to get good and sloshed on the 5th, right? ^_- * Nathan laughs! Same birthday huh? Now that IS interesting ^_- Yeah, kinda. ^^; Kwuu kwuu kwuu~! * Mitsuo nuzzles Syri a bit, "...Well, you can't get sloshed, so we'll get you some walnuts instead. ^-^" * Mikari nods at Mitsuo's observation. "Heh, you coulda been twins." * Syri wideeyes and glances at Mikari, worried. "Kwuu kwuu KWUUUUU!" O_o * Mitsuo is kwuued to death. Okay no. O_o * Cassidy heads off to another section of the base. * Pah. That's the day I'll wear a dress, Mikari. ^_- Mits, I suppose you've never heard'a poetic justice. ^_- Meanwhile, after the door closes behind the group, Gyan turns to Erellisae and smiles. [Gyan] Can I get you anything before we start talking? Which means y'shouldn't go 'round sayin' that. 'sbad luck, heh. * Mikari starts to look up at Syri, who is incessantly kwuuing at her * Mitsuo bites his lip and refuses to answer Mikari, a bit embarrassed. ^^; Meanwhile, after the door closes behind the group, Gyan turns to Erellisae and smiles. [Gyan] Can I get you anything before we start talking? * Erellisae looks a little nervous, but smiles and shakes her head. "N-No, I'm fine." ^^ Gyan nods. [Gyan] Well, I'll get right to the point. I don't suppose you might enlighten me, Miss Erellisae, as to where you were born...? * Erellisae nods. "Merrill, near New Parm." ^^ He nods. [Gyan] Really? I hope this doesn't sound rude, but...tell me, do your parents have similar features to you? I refer to your ears, primarily....very unique. *raises an eyebrow* * Erellisae nods, the same ears drooping slightly as she stares at the table in front of her. "I have these ears... so do my parents. No-one else does, but I never really paid attention to that until Cassidy pointed it out... you're thinking the same thing, aren't you...?" Gyan cocks his head at her. [Gyan] I don't know. What is it you believe I'm thinking...? * Erellisae sighs, resting her head on her arms and staring off into space. "... that I'm connected to the Lumians... the inscriptions we've seen, and the way no-one else is... like me..." Gyan smiles softly. [Gyan] What if I told you I've met people like you before? * Erellisae blinks, wideeyes, and looks up at Gyan. "W-what...? Where?!" [Gyan] Well...what I told you before in my discussion of history wasn't /entirely/ true. Most of the Lumians were destroyed when Gaia attacked, it's true. But a small remnant escaped. Their numbers continue to dwindle, and they have almost died out, but they still exist today, on an isolated island far in the distant west. Gyan pauses, fiddling with a small pendant around his neck, and ponders, trying to decide whether to tell her the rest. * Erellisae thinks, staring out the window in what she (probably mistakenly) thinks is the west. "An island... of Lumians...?" Gyan nods. [Gyan] In fact.... *He pauses* My mother was born there. * Erellisae looks at Gyan again, then down at the table. "I-I... ... was I... born there?" Gyan shrugs. [Gyan] I don't know. It is possible. But it is very likely that your parents, or perhaps your grandparents, came from that island. I do not know; I don't know exactly who they are. But looking at you, there is no doubt of your ancestry. * Erellisae tries to hold back tears, shaking her head. "B-but then... why? Why didn't they /tell/ me?" Gyan pats Erellisae on the shoulder lightly. [Gyan] I can't say, as I don't know your parents. But I imagine they only wanted to protect you. To know the history of the Lumians...well, most Lumians feel at least partly responsible for the fall of Angelou. Some feel as if, despite the salvation of Alent, that they failed in preserving the knowledge as they had intended...and some feel that condemning Liete to a life of complete solitude was also wrong. [Gyan] Most likely, your parents simply wanted to spare you from the burden of this knowledge and heritage, allowing you to grow up to be whoever you would on your own. * Erellisae nods slowly, falling silent for a long while and staring out at the horizon, lost in thought. Gyan waits until she's ready to comment. * Erellisae stands up slowly, her hands clenching to fists as she turns to Gyan, barely holding back tears. "...thank you... thank you for telling me..." [Gyan] Miss Erellisae, please don't cry. You should understand, what race you are does not determine WHO you are. You have the abilities and the features of your ancestors, but not their duties or their sins. He rummages in a pocket. [Gyan] Here. A good luck charm for you, if you will....a token. In the hopes that you will one day be proud of who you are. I disagree with my forbears, but I am proud of my lineage nevertheless. Someday, when you come to terms with yourself, perhaps you will be too. Gyan holds out a small stone fragment, lined with glowing green, and strung on a thin chain. * Erellisae chuckles slightly, a rather more bitter sound than normal for her, as she reaches out a hand. "Easy to say not to cry... but... so much changed so fast..." She sniffles a little, then rubs her eyes with her other arm. Gyan places the pendant in her hand. [Gyan] I understand. Go meet with your friends. *Smiles* I'm sure you will feel better soon. Oh, and if you would, send Mitsuo to speak with me...? You can find them if you go out the door and down the corridor to your left. * Erellisae nods, and starts to leave, but stops midway to the door. "I have a... favour to ask..." [Gyan] Oh? What is it? * Erellisae turns around, her eyes serious. "... if we get the last Orb, and you open a gate to Alent... or if you go to that island... take me with you." Gyan blinks, then nods. [Gyan] If I have the opportunity to take you to either place, I will do so. You have my word. *Smiles* I have to know... why my parents moved away. I have to see these other Lumians... I have to apologise to Liete... [Gyan] To apologize to Liete...? *he sighs* Perhaps we will both do so, one day. *He fingers his own pendant thoughtfully; on closer examination, it looks much like the one he gave Erellisae* * Erellisae nods, breathing a sigh of relief. "Thank you... I'd best go meet with the others... still have to find the orb first, right...?" She makes her way to the door. He nods and waves to her, then sits back, thinking, as he waits for Mitsuo. He wonders....just what would be best to say to Mitsuo? Should he say anything? . o O (Maybe I should never have gotten mixed up with this group in the first place. Ah, well...) * Erellisae heads to where the group should be at a slow pace, examining the pendant as she walks. * Erellisae walks up to the others, clasping the pendant around her neck and trying to put on a faintly wan smile. "Hi, everyone." ^^ * Mitsuo smiles, "Hey, Erel. Did your talk go okay?" Hi Ms. Erellisae, are you okay? Your eyes look a little red... * Dylan frowns Kwuu... :\ * Mitsuo blinks, and notices her eyes as well, "...Erel?" * Syri notices that Erel is, or had been recently, upset almost right away.. * Jalanda is quietly thinking in a corner, her eye on on the group, but they turn quite quickly to Erel as she arrives. They are not very piercing, but rather showing soft sympathy. * Erellisae shakes her head, and smiles a little more genuinely. "I'm okay. Mits, your turn now." ^_^ * Syri blinks and looks at Mitsuo, tilting his head and instead hopping out of his arms and onto Erel's shoulder. * Mitsuo nods to Syri, "You take care of her, okay? I'll be back soon. ^^" * Jalanda lowers her head a bit. "Before you go..." Yes, Jalanda? * Erellisae giggles a little, and makes sure Syri's balanced okay. ^^ Now that Nali has left us... you may be wondering of what I know of Feena and Justin. * Syri gnaws on Erel's hair cutely ^_^ Yes, what do you know? You said that she was close... * Erellisae turns to Jalanda, rubbing her eyes a little with one sleeve. * Jalanda glances over her shoulder a moment, then back to the group. "I have had a vision of her... bearing the burden of a heavy sword, exhausted from running. Panic filled my vision, though of what I do not know..." The Spirit Sword? It may be. But of Justin there is no sign... his star is yet obscured in the heavy mists beyond my awareness. Hmm. Well, with the Spirit's help, we should find them soon enough. * Mitsuo nods, "I shouldn't keep Gyan waiting. I'll meet with you all in a bit." * Mitsuo smiles and walks off. Mitsuo... good luck. ^^; * Jalanda watches Mitsuo go. "...so many threads plucked by the silver hand. What shall come of this..." * Mikari comes up from around the corner. "Hey... just pickin' up some grub for the road... ...eh, Erel, you okay?" * Erellisae blinks, and nods. "I'll be fine." ^^ Well.... okay, if y'say so. Gyan sits staring absently at nothing, tapping his fingers idly on the table, as Mitsuo enters the room.... You wished to see me, Sir? Gyan starts, then relaxes. [Gyan] Oh yes, Mitsuo. Sit down. *He frowns* I had several things to ask you...but...well, I did wonder. I hope you and your friends don't bear too much ill will against me.... * Mitsuo blinks, "...What exactly did you wish to inquire about, sir?" * Mitsuo sits down. [Gyan] Well. I noticed earlier...I think there is more to your group than meets the eye. *He fingers a pendant around his neck, staring at it, then looks up at Mitsuo.* You don't, by any chance, happen to have found fragments a strange stone during your travels, have you? * Mitsuo erks a bit mentally, not liking where this is going, but not really able to cover up the truth, "We...found two shards." * Mitsuo pulls out his own shard, "...Is this what you meant?" Gyan nods. [Gyan] I had a feeling. *He examines the shard Mitsuo produces, then holds up his own pendant. The two glow a little more brightly.* [Gyan] I take it Cassidy also has possession of one...? Yes...she does. [Gyan] I sensed something strange from the two of you. *He looks at Mitsuo askance* I wonder. It could be simply coincidence...or perhaps you found them because you were meant to find them. I have often wondered that myself, about my own shard... *Gazes at it pensively* * Mitsuo blinks, "I...don't think there's anything strange about me, sir...Not anything that I know of, anyway." Gyan shrugs. [Gyan] Oh, I don't necessarily mean anything /strange/ exactly. I just mean...well, do you believe in destiny, Mitsuo? Destiny... * Mitsuo thinks on this for a while, "I'm...really not sure. I haven't given much thought to it. I suppose a bit of both. i think destiny exists, but we have the power to change it if we wish to." Gyan nods. [Gyan] I ask because I know what these stones are, and it seems odd to me that it should find its way to me, to you, and to Cassidy. And I have just given one to your friend Erellisae. If you wish to know the truth, I hadn't intended to do so. It was an impulse. Perhaps the stones WISH to be held by us. [Gyan] An interesting idea, if nothing else. I'm not so sure about all of that, but the point is we hold them now...Destiny or not. Gyan frowns thoughtfully out of the corner of his eye at Mitsuo, a strange certainty growing. * Mitsuo notices this frown, and grows a bit uneasy, but tries not to show it. Gyan nods. [Gyan] But to tell the truth, they are really not good for anything. They glow a little brighter when in close proximity with other shards, but that is all. The immense power the Spirit Stone once held has now been reduced to nothing. *He frowns* Perhaps that's for the best...I mean...now we can choose our own path. :) Gyan sighs. [Gyan] Mitsuo, have you ever wondered what /really/ happened eleven years ago? Gaia was destroyed. We know this. The Spirit Stone was shattered into hundreds of pieces and almost completely neutralized. But beyond that....we don't really know. [Gyan] I get the feeling that you and your companions don't trust me. And to be honest, why should you? You don't yet know much about me or my intentions. But I will tell you that I am trying to provide that certainty that we lack... [Gyan] ...To make sure all of humanity /knows/ that we never need fear again. I...just don't see what all the secrecy is about...why you had Cassidy take the Orb. Surely the merpeople would have understood...but you've explained it to me once before. It is something i will just have to accept. . o O ( Even though I probably never will. ) Gyan sighs. [Gyan] I truly regret the course of events that led to that unfortunate situation. But...the problem is that we simply lack time. I had no time to develop a plan for obtaining the Orb peacefully; I wasn't even sure where it was until Cassidy discovered it. Why is it you lack time? Is there something you're not telling the group? I don't quite understand that part. [Gyan] Well, there is much I am not telling you. My organization is founded upon years of study and planning; it is not something I can easily explain, or even feel I /should/ explain, to a group of people I have only just met. I like all of you, truly, but it is difficult to go into all the details. You understand? ...Yes, I understand. . o O ( But I don't like it. ) [Gyan] Anyway, Mitsuo, what I really wish to ask is this. If you understood my objectives and agreed with them, do you think you might possibly ever wish to help me, and to join my group? ...Quite honestly, I would have to know more about your objectives. Like you said, we really just met. But...*sighs* I'm not sure. I'll keep it in mind once I know more about your orginization. Gyan nods. [Gyan] Of course. I have no reason to expect more. Very well, then....perhaps we will have another chance to talk later, and I can tell you more. I will keep an eye on your progress, at least as far as the Tenkali jungle. Meanwhile, you can ask Cassidy if you have more questions. She may be able to answer some of them. Gyan stands, ready to dismiss Mitsuo. [Gyan] However...if you ever did join us, you would be given a position of respect, on an equal footing with Cassidy. I have heard good things about you. *Smiles* And I can sense you have a good character. * Mitsuo looks a bit surprised at this, "...Thank you very much sir. ^^;" Gyan simply nods. [Gyan] Feel free to help yourself to my stores. I shall send a transport to see you off later on. * Mitsuo stands up, and bows politely, "Thank you, Sir. Take care. And thanks for your assistance." * Mitsuo turns to leave, his smile quickly replaced by a worried frown once he's turned around, and he heads out. Gyan nods politely, then makes his way to a different exit as Mitsuo continues back to join the others. ==Session End== *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 16.0: The Cobalt Guard | Location: Cobalt Guard Talachian Base, noon, June 27 | Session End' Session Close: Fri Feb 01 23:06:10 2002