Session Start: Tue May 14 18:49:32 2002 *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 28.0: The Icarian Army | Location: Tenkala village, morning, July 8 | Session Start' The morning has reached a little past dawn when the party starts to drift into the inn. The sun is bright and shining, but a heavy band of clouds line the horizon to the east, just below the glowing orb of the sun. A hot breakfast of unique Tenkali cuisine can be smelled cooking in the kitchen, drawing early risers to it in a dazed stupor of sleepiness... * Erellisae is seated at a table, hunched over and asleep. One hand is holding a bitten roll, the other a fork: looks like sleep won out over hunger. ^^; * Nathan flumps down to eat, unsure of what the day will bring. Best to eat up while he can * Dylan lies in bed, dreaming of ice and snow * Nathan resists the urge to prod Erel, such a serene scene ^_- * Nathan eats what's presented to him without a word * Jalanda is seated at the table, though is not touching her food with the same mindless feasting of the other patrons. ^^ A few of the Tenkali drift in and take seats for breakfast. Some are already digging in; they look to be scouts or warriors of the village. They wear serious frowns. * Jalanda holds that strange deck of cards in her hand, fanning them out slowly before her... * Nathan looks at one of the town scouts, "What's the word out there?" Covering a yawn, Lily enters, dressed and armed. She waves and takes a seat with the others, eyeing Erellisae with a raised eyebrow. One of the scouts finishes chewing and swallows, then turns to Nathan. [Scout] It isn't good. The army is still on the move. They should be here sometime today. * Feray opens the door to the eatery and peers in, grinning as she notices the few assembled people. She straightens and walks in, her gaze lowering on Erel in amusement. Her arm is noticably cradled close to her body and looks a little swollen in this dim lighting. But there's no sling. * Nathan waves at Feray as she enters, then notes a missing accessory with a dissaproving look Hey, everyone. I see we're all perky and ready for the day's events. I brought you all a gift. ^_- * Feray casts Nate a wry grin and a wink. Morning Feray, how's the arm? ;) It's like new! Really! I can almost feel my fingers today! ^_- Uh huh...riiight ^_- Hence the lack of the sling? * Mitsuo wanders into the eating area quietly, looking around the room quietly until his gaze rests on his friends. He smiles. * Feray motions to Mitsuo. "Enough about the sling, look what I brought!" * Mitsuo waves, "^^; Hi." See, aren't I a good girl? ^_- * Nathan blinks, then breaks into a big grin :) * Jalanda plucks one from the array in her hand seemingly at random. It's a collection of many swords, piercing the ground in a line. She frowns at this, but it is not long lasting, and she quickly hides the deck to greet Mitsuo and Feray. Hey there Mits, glad to see you up and running again :) Lily blinks in surprise, then smiles at Mitsuo, trying to hide a sigh of relief. * Feray heads to the table and flops down into a chair, wincing slightly. She then peers over at the sleeping Erel in amusement. ...awww. That's adorable. * Erellisae ... snoozes. Zzz... she looks like she really needed it. ^^; * Feray reaches out and snags the bun from Erel's sleepy hand. * Feray pops it in her mouth. Thanks...I hope I wasn't too much trouble. * Jalanda raises her head, and smiles in Mitsuo's direction. "I see you have reached home at last. I was beginning to worry." * Mitsuo blinks a little at Jalanda, confused. O_o * Erellisae doesn't noticably react at Feray's swiping, instead making a faint 'wstgfl' noise and shifting slightly. ^^; * Nathan chuckles at Mitsuo Take a seat my good man ^_^ * Dylan dreams of sleighrides * Nathan reaches over ang gives Feray's cradled arm a gentle prod Some of the Tenkali arrive with hot plates of breakfast for the newcomers. Lily hands over a few coins in payment and digs in. * Mitsuo smiles wanly and walks to the table. Before he sits down, he rummages through his backpack and gently lays a small book in front of Erel, trying not to wake her up. * Feray bites her lip, face paling. ^^; * Feray glares at Nate furiously. * Nathan gives Feray another dissaproving look Don't make me manhandle you back into that sling ^_- ...Sling? ...Feray? * Feray grunts a little at the disapproving look and utters a snort, relaxing into a faint grin. She then winks at Mitsuo. Yeah, I'm so sexy I hurt myself. ;) ...How? O_o She fell down...a lot I jumped off a cliff. Splat. Well, it wasn't so much a jump....as much as a heroic Jalanda saving lunge. * Mitsuo frowns just a little, "...and you didn't tell me? ^^;" * Feray trails off into a mumble, digging into her pack with her good hand, tugging the sling out. She gently tugs it on. * Jalanda pales a bit. "I suppose that's an accurate description.." I didn't tell you because I'm okay! Really! * Feray eyes the sling with distaste. That is correct, Feray was quite the heroine while you were out Mits Lily raises an eyebrow but says nothing, figuring as long as Feray is wearing the sling, she'll let the matter rest. ^^ She saved Jalanda? Wow... ^^; Impressive. It's great to know we all have someone looking out for us. * Feray rolls her eyes at the description and then blushes faintly at Mitsuo's words. A-hem. Has anyone heard from Cassidy? Yes... yes it is. I did tell her mom that she was looking out for us, and Feray ain't one to make me a liar * Feray prods Nate under the table with her foot. Hard. ;) Oof! And on that note, food for me ;D * Nathan resumes eating, trying not to guffaw in the process * Feray snorts. "As I was saying. Cassidy? Anyone heard from our little spy?" * Mitsuo smiles faintly, "Ooh. Corn bread." Lily thinks. * Mitsuo grabs a piece. ^^ [Lily] Cassidy should be back soon, I would think. If she didn't slip in late last night. ^^; Alright.....because we really need to learn the situation with the incoming bozos...I mean, the army. * Jalanda folds her hands into her robe sleeves, brushing a stray thought aside. "It is not so much Cassidy as the info she may well bring that bears my immediate concern." * Mitsuo bites into the corn bread, his expression growing a bit darker. He swallows rather roughly. ^^; * Cassidy, as if on cue, opens the door to the inn, steps inside and closes the door behind her. She leans back against it and sighs.. * ...? * Feray turns and raises an eyebrow at Cassidy. And speak of the devil...there she is ;) Judging by that sigh, I'm assuming things didn't go wonderfully? Lily turns to look questioningly at Cassidy Take a seat Cass, no sense you holding up a perfectly good door * Cassidy looks up, and a short moment later she strides towards the group. * They're coming. About 250 infantry, 30 horse. * Jalanda glances aside and nods once to Cassidy. * Feray loses a little of her cheer and nods... Hmm...bad odds * Cassidy drops into a chair. * They're looking for Feena, they're wanting to talk to the Tenkali, they're just a regular bundle of multi-purpose joy. Oh goodie. * Nathan thinks, trying to pin down options I was going to assassinate Jiandir last night, try to leave them without a decision-maker, but thought no one here might think too highly of that. * Feray slides Cassidy a nice cold pitcher of water, pausing at that. * Mitsuo looks down at the table, not saying anything. ....well, it's a matter of survival, really. So I can't say I would've frowned on it. If that's what it takes. The problem is, we don't know if that would stopped their advance * Jalanda looks up. "It is good that you didn't. He has a role yet to play in things." * Nathan leands back in his chair I've tried to call in the Trieste and the Emclaude.. which I think are the two closest airships. But they're currently involved in another.. skirmish... with some merfolk, and I have a feeling that some bad weather is going to roll in. So I'm not sure how long it'll take for them to arrive. ... * Feray leans back in her chair, tiredly stroking the gauze-y material of the sling and glancing at Nate with the mention of the merfolk. * Nathan shrugs, "Can't say I didn't expect that." * Mitsuo glances over at Erel sleeping and considers waking her up, but decides not to. I can still go back out and take the heads of all of their officers if need be. I'm not sure if they're aware of fly-boy over there or not. * She glances at Mitsuo. * But I still think we should hit the road. Lily gestures with her fork. [Lily] According to the scouts, the army should arrive in by early afternoon, if not before. * Nathan looks back at Cassidy, "Do they know that we're here?" ...Fly boy? * Mitsuo shakes his head. This group? I don't believe so. Or at least they didn't express any interest in it. A good sign there * Jalanda closes her eyes a moment, and sighs once. * Feray is quiet, letting the group come to its own decision, a serious look on her face. But even so, we can't go toe-to-toe with that many armed soldiers So, I suggest the Tenkali here go hide in the woods for a few days, and we get out of town. That'll buy time for the ships to arrive and dispense with Jiandir and company. * Mikari walks out of her room, uncharacteristically late in the morning considering she didn't do any heavy drinking that anyone knows of. She is wearing the two bracelets they got last night. Her hair is all askew, as though she had a hard night, but she doesn't really act underslept, just rather quiet and mild. * Nathan waves Mikari over Lily frowns. [Lily] I'm not sure we have time for that.... Can we buy the village enough time? * Mikari walks over to Nate with a weak smile. "'Ey." Well.. I can go out and execute a few, which might slow them down a bit since they'll have to move more cautiously. ...Execute? *shakes his head* No...we shouldn't do that. * Cassidy 's eyes don't meet the eyes of anyone else, she looks down as she speaks, hair hiding her face. * Lily nods. [Lily] There has to be a better way. Hmm...where's the village elder? We'll need to know how much time they'll need to evacuate the village * Feray pauses, her gaze levelling on Cassidy as if she's about to approve that option....before the others speak. Eh... talkin' tactics I see... Otherwise this is all semantic Lily waves to Mikari, gesturing to a chair and a plate of breakfast Lily looks at Nathan and stands. [Lily] I'll go find out. ALl right then OK, so if possible, we need ways to trip up the approaching army. Slow them down * Mikari nods to Lily and sits down. She sighs and stretches, leaning back in her chair. * Feray grins a little. I could help do that. How? I can probably spook the horses, I have a few good tricks All we'd need is a clearing and Erel and Cassidy and some oil. Something flammable, anyway. * Jalanda considers something... * Erellisae jolts up, with a cry of "Whaaa..! I'm awake I'm awake I'm awake!" She blinks furiously, rubs at her eyes, then looks around. "Hey... wow, I'm awake! ... Where'd my roll go?" ^^;; * Feray looks innocently at Erel. ;) Hmm...setting fire to the jungle might be a bit extreme...but if we have no other choice... Hmm. Do crabs spook horses, at that? No, not to the jungle. * Nathan grins at Mikari That's why we have Erel. And Dylan, really. To keep control of the blaze. * Mitsuo smiles a little, "Morning, Erel..." * Erellisae blinks muzzily at Feray, still in the process of waking up. ^^; * Mikari hehs. ^^ * Erellisae waves slightly, before it turns into a yawn, her ears pricking. "Huh? Blaze?" * Feray nods slightly to Erel. Unless those horses are trained warhorses, then they'll spook at certain signals ;) Thinking on ways to slow the advancing Icarian army down... If we're gonna out the army, it has to be outed completely. Or at least ground to a halt. We don't want to nip at their heels on the way here, since that'll just put them in a foul mood by the time they reach the villiage. And then they'll vent on the Tenkali. * Erellisae blinks, then holds up a hand. "Recap for the people who were asleep in--", she winces, "--really backache-inducing positions?" Te army is on its way here Erel. 250 soldiers, 30 cavalry. They're looking for Feena Yes... Cassidy is right. The motion must be halted, not slowed. You must use their own fanatic grouping against them, or else it will be your undoing. Help the people here evacutate. I will slow the army down. 250... Damn... can't say I've ever dealt with anythin' that big before..... Sigh. Hmm... I wonder... * Cassidy draws out her sword.. * * Erellisae nods, going from waking up to serious surprisingly fast. "I'll help any way I can. I promised I'd stay and fight." Cassidy... There seems to be some noise coming from outside.... ..? * Mitsuo looks up, "...Uh oh...It can't be..." * Nathan goes to check it out * Mikari blinks, looks at the door, and starts to stand up herself. * Cassidy heads outside, seeking the source of the distraction.. * * Feray stops in the midst of what she has to say and stands, heading over with Nathan... There is a large group of Tenkali soldiers standing in the village center clearing, arguing with each other rather heatedly. ^^; They can see Jahla and Lily striding toward the group. Uhm...hmmm Is it the Icarian Army? Are they here? Not yet * Mikari follows them all out in time to see what they're looking at. * Mitsuo lets out a sigh of relief, "...Good." I'll go to meet them. Get everyone up, and out of this town. * Nathan looks at Lily, "What's the scoop?" Cassidy. One of the scouts looks over at them and nods. "Not here, but it will not be long. There is little time left. They are coming faster than we expected." * Cassidy walks off towards the direction of the approaching army.. * [Lily] I'm not sure, we're about to find out.... Crap * Mikari looks in between them to see what's going. She doesn't say much. We may have run out of time Jahla stands before the group and puts her hands on her hips, glaring until she has their attention. [Jahla] If you have finished...? Then report. * Mitsuo stands up slowly, pushing his chair in. He's eerily quiet. * Dylan lumbers down from his room, wakened by the noise outside. One of the Tenkali goes after Cassidy and stands in her way, talking heatedly. * Jalanda arises from her position at the table. * Erellisae shakes her head slightly, murmuring quietly. "We have to fight, though... otherwise we'll always be running." They're after you, aren't they? * Feray arches an eyebrow and then turns to Erel, nodding slowly..she heads outside.. * Mitsuo turns to Erel. * Cassidy looks up at the scout, peering through loose strands of hair. * Don't just stand there, go help the others. One of the Tenkali speaks quickly to Jahla, who nods. She frowns. [Jahla] It seems there is no time even for evacuation. Right...battle stations. * With a nod, most of the warriors fan out to apparently preset positions around the village. One raises his head and lets out a loud, ululating cry that can be heard throughout the village. * Erellisae nods, biting her lip. Her hands are glowing a faint red as she tries to keep calm. "Yeah. Their route to the Icarians..." ... ... The scout shakes his head at Cassidy. [Scout] I cannot allow you to go into the jungle right now. * Feray closes her eyes at the cry. * Mitsuo smiles a little, "...Just promise me you won't give yourself over. We'll fight together." Look like we fight, like it or not * Mikari flexes her fingers and surveys the scene seriously. * Jalanda bows her head to Mitsuo and Erellisae. * Feray then opens them once more, her eyes a dark grey now. She nods sharply and draws her sword with her good hand. * Dylan walks over to Mitsuo We fight. Jahla turns to the others. [Jahla] Well....have you decided what to do? * Cassidy clenches her sword.. * You have more important things to worry about than me. Much more important things. * Erellisae blinks, and grins at Mitsuo, her mood improving. "Of course! I still have to pay them back for that kidnapping. >:|" * Mikari nods with Feray. We fight. What else is there to do? Mitsuo, I assume you don't know how to unfold your wings? * Feray looks to Jahla and nods in agreeance with Nathan. Give us a line and we will make sure its not crossed ...No....I...I don't think so. The scout shakes his head stubbornly. [Scout] It's certain death to go out there alone. Join your friends. If you wish to fight, fight with them. It...just happened... * Feray turns her gaze to Cassidy, her voice sharp. "Cass, get back here. There isn't time. We need your help now." A pity, such a display might have diverted them... * Erellisae looks across to Jahla. "I'm not gonna be much good in a big melee. Is there anywhere... maybe high, I can sit and drop spells on people?" Jahla nods, then points to the edge of the village clearing. [Jahla] There, just behind the front lines. Is it acceptable? Control will come only in time... don't push yourself here, not yet... Fine, we'll set ourselves up thereabouts Yeah, diverted them into fawning over me. ^^; Can we just not do that? Jahla shrugs to Erellisae. [Jahla] Climb any of the ladders to the trees. Just be careful where you aim your spells. Still, battle is not yet certain, if they have any sense.. * Nathan cracks his knuckles, and heads to the clearing They don't. That's the problem... * Mikari steps up to the group of Tenkali. "Do y'have any vital points ya haven't covered where we might need an ambush set up?" * Feray turns her gaze to Erel, worry dulling the sharp color of her eyes. "....Erel?" Remember, they are people, not monsters. * Cassidy glances back to the group a moment, before returning her gaze to the scout. * I could have taken fifteen or twenty before they arrived. I know. * Cassidy turns and heads back to the group.. * The Tenkali talk animatedly with Mikari for a few moments. It seems that most of the vital areas are covered, but one or two gesture to some places she might wish to set herself. * Feray heads to Erel's side, tugging her aside. People or not, they are the enemy. This makes them just as bad as monsters. * Erellisae blinks, then follows Feray. "Yeah?" ^^; The scout shakes his head at Cassidy as he goes to his own position, obviously thinking she's crazy. * Mitsuo looks around to see where he'd be best placed. They chase shadows... do not show them the true stars that illuminate the darkness, and this battle will end favorably. * Nathan stands ready in the designated clearing, performing a few stretches while he can Enemies must be defeated or placated, monsters should be killed, this a large difference. Don't hold back. I know you can handle this but watch for arrows, alright? If any of the guards get past us.... * Feray digs into her pack and tugs out a dagger, pressing it into Erel's hand. You should stay hidden, Mitsuo. No Icarian talk from anyone at all. That'll just whip these Church twits into a frenzy. * Mitsuo looks a bit surprised, "...Do they know about me, Cassidy?" * Erellisae nods, taking the dagger. "I know. I'll be careful. I'll take the nearest tree to you, so I can get back quick if there's a problem. Deal?" Only wings they'll be seeing is on the birds tweeting around their heads. * Mikari looks over the scene, nods to the planners, and starts preparing her equipment. * Feray nods, smiling wryly. "Give 'em hell, littlebit." * Nathan turns to face the jungle, taking some deep breaths, tasting the air and opening his senses * Cassidy runs her hand through her hair to keep it from trembling, not liking the idea of this futile stand very much.. * * Erellisae grins, looking more like her old self. "I plan to." ^_^ Feray, if you want, I can stick close to Erel as well.... * Feray pauses and gazes at Mitsuo, a soft smile flitting across her features. "Alright. The two of you will be good together as a team. Just...watch for arrows. And don't be afraid to get your hands dirty..." Right. ^^ * Feray pauses on that and jerks her bad arm hard, snapping the sling. * Feray tosses it to the side, paling slightly with the pain. And go easy on that arm, okay? ^^;; * Erellisae nods. "Let's go--... hey!" o_O Sure thing, handsome. What're you doing? ^^;; You're meant to heal up and be careful too! ^^;; * Nathan tesnes up his whole body for a few seconds, then relaxes, listening to the blood flowing in his veins Don't worry. Besides, I'll be more useful with both my hands free. * Mikari is off to the side, leaning on the rope railing with one arm and looking out to the future battleground. As much as I really want to play doctor...*snicker* ^^; Gah, that sounds wrong.... ...I mean! * Erellisae fusses over Feray, peering at her arm. "Only if using both hands doesn't make you wince and let go!" ^^;; * Mitsuo coughs, "We should get into position. ^^;" * Feray arches an eyebrow at Mitsuo, her seriousness breaking so she grins. * Jalanda strides amidst the chaos of preparations with her cool demeanor, taking a favorable defensive position when it presents itself. Yes. Position. ;) * Cassidy looks off to the distance, at the dark heavy clouds slowly rolling in.. * * Feray says that saucily. Gah! ^^; Stop! ^^; * Feray then smiles at Erel. "Don't worry about me. I've had worse. Promise." * Mikari turns back to Feray. "I'm ready." Let's go, Erel... * Erellisae hesistates, then nods, again becoming serious. "Okay. Let's go, Mits. We better hurry." * Dylan yawns loudly and stretches... * Mitsuo nods, and heads towards the area the Village Elder described. * Feray nods to Mikari and offers her arm for a warrior's handshake. We'll show these jerks what happens to those who storm innocent villages. Couldn't they have waited until dinner time? It's so hot and soporific.. I'm afraid persistence is one of their cardinal virtues. Make sure your weapons are concealed. I would like to think that their not rampaging savages. * Erellisae starts to head after Mitsuo, before noticing her diary on the table. She blinks, wide-eyes, then grabs it, stuffing it in her bag and rummaging for other things as she runs after Mitsuo. * Mikari shakes Feray's hand, her stoic look turning into a small but sly grin. "Yeah." So let's not provoke them, let them provoke us. * Feray winks and then pauses, nodding a little at Cass's words. * Nathan takes a very deep breath, slowly releasing it as a low and hollow gurgling growl * Feray sheathes her sword....and arches an eyebrow at Nate slowly. * Dylan leans against a tree * Mitsuo manages to climb up a tree without killing himself. Amazing. . o O (If you have not forsaken me Rorqual, then guide me.) * Erellisae is lucky, cuz she's climbing up behidn him and would have been splatted if he fell off. Doh. * Cassidy takes up a position in the clearing in plain view of where the impending force shall most likely appear. Driving her sword into the ground, she waits.. * * Nathan kneels down, and awaits the incoming army * Feray stands firmly in the path, looking composed.. Hey, Nate, while you're down there... Hm? * Erellisae, in the cover of the treeline, scans the area, rummaging through her pack. "Drat.. thought I had some spare cholla... oh well. Have to make do." Wanna rub my feet? * Nathan blinks, and then chuckles * Feray sticks a leg out, breaking her seriousness as she waggles her foot towards Nate. I have some if you need it, Erel. ^^; * Mikari steps away, about ready to be off to the brush... she has picked a point not far from the others; visible if one knows where to look. How about after the fight? ;) Ooh. Okay. I'll bring the oils. * Erellisae shakes her head. "We should be fine, I think... I guess we just wait now...". She continues to scan the area, her hands glowing faintly with magic as he stays ready. * Jalanda just stands in her position, looking up into the treetops briefly at the pair, then rests her gaze back on the forest carrying the many impending visitors. * Nathan grins, glad to see Feray in good spirits again ^_^ * Mitsuo watches the area closely, his expression very troubled. * Feray smiles playfully for a moment before running her good hand through her bangs, brushing them away...she straightens her shoulders and waits. A noise can be heard off in the jungle! The warriors assume fighting stance.... * Erellisae blinks, and looks back at Mitsuo. "Hey." * Mikari finds a concealed spot in the brush and starts rigging up a trap with her extra rope and scavenged tree branches. She gives an 'OK' sign to the rest from where she stands. Glad to see you up and fighting again Feray. I'm glad to have you watching our backs again * Cassidy places a hand upon the grip of her sword, raising her eyes to the woodland's edge.. * Yeah...? * Feray laughs lowly, her voice distracted as she gazes towards the noise.. "Just make sure I don't have to leap off any cliffs to save your crabby buns.." * Nathan stands, and slides into an attack posture, pushing some hair from his eyes, "Deal." :) * Mikari hurries and ties off two lines to one tree, leaving two heavy, dangling pieces of wood right in front of her. She readies her dagger and looks off in the direction of the noise. * Erellisae smiles, waggling a finger at Mitsuo. "Don't think about it too much. You're Mitsuo before anything else." ^^ She grins, then looks shaprly back to the forest as the noises occur, the corona around her hands glowing slightly brighter, a faint white. The Icarian Temple's army emerges from the trees at a fast pace! They come to a halt some distance from the front line of Tenkali. Jiandir, in the lead, raises his voice. [Jiandir] We wish to speak with the village chief. * Jalanda mumbles, "...perhaps there is hope to set them aright after this day..." ...(w) Here we go. * Erellisae makes an annoyed noise, the corona flaring slightly as she spots Jiandir. She crouches slightly, trying to keep nicely out of sight. From atop a platform in the trees, Jahla calls out in a loud voice. [Jahla] You break faith with us by bringing armed warriors to our village. I will not speak with you unless you put your weapons away! * Feray whispers something and it sounds like a soft prayer to her ancestors. [Jiandir] If you cooperate with us, you will come to no harm. Follow the will of the Icarians and the Spirits and cooperate with their servants. If you do, there will be no need to use our weapons. * Jalanda stares into the distant formation of red and gold, as if she's scrutinizing the souls of those who have come here in turn... * Cassidy grits her teeth.. * ... * Nathan waits for a signal, content to stay where he is * Feray backs her ears slightly, all joking gone from her face. [Jahla] You do not have our trust. Put your weapons down or I will not speak with you further! * Erellisae mutters to Mits. "Hey, Mits. Is it your will that we cooperate with them, out of interest...?" Jiandir sighs, then makes a commanding motion to some of the front line warriors. Shouldering their spears and drawing their swords, they advance toward the village, apparently intent on forcibly bringing Jahla out to Jiandir. Heh. ^^; * Mitsuo chuckles a little, "No. ^_^" * Feray utters a soft snarl. * Nathan growls lowly ...Ugh. O_o Erel...look... * Mikari narrows her eyes at the army from her place of concealment. * Dylan wanders out in front of Jahla * Erellisae straightens, looking more serios as the army advance. The glow around her hands shifts colour to a red glare, brightening. . o O (The tide is not rushed, the warrior awaits the moment...) * Dylan waggles his wide finger at Jiandir Several of the Tenkali bar the templars' path. Angry words are exchanged, and then, unsurprisingly, weapons flash in the sunlight. Battle has begun! * Jalanda looks a bit displeased, her left hand beginning to take on a green aura slowly. Tut-tut your Emmenence. What would the council say to this? A few more warriors join them, but not all; apparently Jiandir still plans to force Jahla to speak with him before a true battle ensues. * Feray looks up towards Erel and Mitsuo's position before drawing her sword, exhaling softly. "Well. Here we go." * Nathan stands ready and prepares to fight if attacked * Erellisae scans the army for a nice ally-clear enemy-populated area to target. Some of the Templars break free from the main group, approaching the party. * Mikari quickly jumps into battle mode; her eyes dart around, waiting for the army's charge to get thick enough that a few stray into the brush to get to the village, falling into her trap. >> Templars 1, 2, and 3 appear! Battle begin! * Feray smiles sweetly at the advancing Templars. * Nathan meets the Templar's advance with a wicked grin * Cassidy hefts her weapon, and joins the battle.. * Cease or shatter against us, foolish men.. * Erellisae nods to Mitsuo. "Ready...? I'm thinking Jiandir." Blinded ones, seek not violence, lest you be rewarded with it. * Mitsuo nods, "Let's see what we can do." Hey boys. Let's party. * Feray shifts to an aggressive stance, drawing her sword back... * Erellisae grins, taking careful aim as the spell coalesces in her hands, before she draws her hands back and lets fly at Jiandir and the area around him! Erellisae's burnflame spell flies at Jiandir, but he glances up, throws up a hand, and the spell is deflected! O_o ...Spirits! O_o Did you see that? * Erellisae blinks, then sweatdrops, ducking back down into cover. "I saw! That's CHEATING!" ^^;; Duck! O_o . o O (Unsettling trend) The burnflame spell ricochets back at an angle, flying harmlessly between the trees before it dissipates. * Feray blinks at the blast of fire and sighs ^^; We need to weaken him first before we can actually harm him... >> Templar 2's declaration. Prepares to attack Nathan! >> Templar 1's declaration. Begins to chant a spell! * Nathan bares his fangs at the approaching Templar Off in Mikari's direction, there is a cry as some Templars rush toward the village and are caught in some sort of trap! * Erellisae grrs slightly from her cover. "Great... can't hit Jiandir, the other soldiers are too close..." >> Dylan's declaration. * Mitsuo adjusts his glasses as a plan begins to form in his mind. The Spirits shall not be used by such as you! * Dylan winds up a fist! * Mikari emerges from the brush, grinning darkly, having accomplished her task. She returns to regroup with the others quickly, though, not wishing to be alone when they find the source of the attack. >> Mitsuo's declaration. * Mitsuo closes his eyes and balls one of his hands into a fist. It begins to glow a silverish-blue. >> Feray's declaration. * Mikari jumps onto the battlefield of her companions, giving them a casual salute. ^_^ " 'mback." * Feray grins wickedly at the soldiers and twirls her sword around her body at an amazingly fast pace, her voice soft and beckoning as the silver of her eyes begins to fade to dark brown... "Kharan est en raenhail, omeh en antherii lee est Nahl...." * Nathan slides a glance at Feray >> Jalanda's declaration. * Jalanda draws in a breath methodically, girding herself for conflict as the Templars advance. "...if this is the path that you choose." * Jalanda lifts her pale right hand from the robes that hide it, as it begins to gather a golden magical aura. "O, Spirits of the Earth..." >> Cassidy's declaration. * Cassidy closes her eyes, and readies her Dazzling Blade, intent upon cleaving up Templar 1. * >> Erellisae's declaration. * Erellisae peers over the edge, looking down to the skirmish below, her hands glowing white then shifting to a deep brown as she scans the group. >> Mikari's declaration. * Mikari leans forward competitively and prepares a fire spell... >> Nathan's declaration. * Nathan starts charging his entire body with energy, surrounding it in a pale aura of green >> Templar 3's declaration. Prepares a special move aimed at Feray! >> Templar 2's action. Dives for Nathan, attacking in a combo...first hit misses! Second hit...8 damage! * Nathan urfs, but contiues his efforts >> Templar 1's action...casts Diggin'! All enemies gain +1 DEF level! >> Mitsuo's action! Blue and white bonds, winter's slowing! * Mitsuo claps his hands together, and twin colored rays of motion spiral in from the north and south onto the target. In a burst of transformation, the air around the enemy's feet is frozen into blocks of ice! >> Mitsuo casts Freeze! All enemies suffer -1 MOV level! >> Jalanda's action! Flesh and bone, become as stone... Diggin'... * Jalanda thrusts her arm down, causing diamond-shaped slabs of earth below her to break loose and rise up around her compatriots, before sinking in and becoming one with them. >> Jalanda casts Diggin'. All allies gain +1 DEF level! >> Dylan's action! * Dylan slides up to right in front of the Templar, and slam his fist into his jaw, lifting him off his feet before leaving him to land on his ass! Give it up! Rising Dawn Upper! * Dylan lacks long hair to waft in the dramatic breeze ;_; >> Dylan executes Uppercut on Templar 3...39 damage! Templar 2's move is cancelled! * Nathan watches the Templar's very nice aerial arc-and-fall >> Erellisae's action! * Erellisae stands up long enough to cast her spell, causing the ground around Templar 1 to shake and tremor! Then she ducks back really quickly. ^^; >> Erellisae casts Tremor on Templar 1...69 damage! >> Mikari's action! Hey, need a light? ^_^ * Mikari crouches down midway, clasping her hand... then rises up quickly, letting loose the power from her hand to sends flames shooting in a beeline towards Templar 2! >> Mikari casts Burn! on Templar 2. 10 damage! >> Cassidy's action! * Mikari growls in annoyance as the templar fails to stagger back in searing pain as planned. * Cassidy unleashes the brilliant Dazzling Blade upon Templar 1! * >> Cassidy executes Dazzling Blade on Templar 1. 28 damage! >> Feray's action! * Feray arcs her blade a final time, her eyes now streaming a dark brown mist....she buries the blade into the ground with a devestating finality. There is silence and then the ground beneath Templar 1 erupts into life, cracking and rumbling and shaking violently in a devestating attack! * Feray flashes a quick, almost predatorily seductive smile at the troubled templar. "....nahl." Her eyes spark once before the brown fades to silver once more. >> Feray casts Tremor on Templar 1...9 damage! >> Nathan's action! Hrmph! Too fast for you. * Nathan is surrounded by a brief green aura, and a shadowy, monstrous figure seems to appear behind him for a moment, then its gone with a soft rasping sound. * Feray grunts a little at the horridly bad outcome of that spell and decides to just bash things. >> Nathan executes Celerity...gains +1 ACT level! >> Templar 2's declaration. Prepares a special move aimed at Cassidy! * Cassidy grins. * >> Templar 1's declaration. Prepares to combo Mikari! >> Mitsuo's declaration. * Mitsuo balls one of his hands into a fist, where it begins to glow with a yellow aura. * Mikari sneers at the templar. "Just you try it." >> Jalanda's declaration. * Jalanda pulls out a strange deck from the folds of her garments with her left hand, fingering one of the arcane cards... >> Cassidy's declaration. * Cassidy begins a quiet chant, readying a Diggin' spell.. * >> Templar 2's action. Executes Righteous Anger on Cassidy! 45 damage! Dylan is grouped...24 damage! Cassidy and Dylan are berserk! * Mitsuo gacks. O_o * Nathan growls * Cassidy doesn't look too keen, but she seems to ignore her condition, intent on getting revenge.. * >> Erellisae's declaration. * Erellisae looks down at the battle below, preparing another spell, her hands glowing white tinged with red, the sheer amount of spellcasting taking it's toll. "Ugh... you okay, Mits?" I'm okay...why? >> Mikari's declaration. * Erellisae sweatdrops, concentrating on the spell as the corona reddens. "We're getting through a lot of spells, and there's a lot of soldiers... we gonna be okay?" :/ * Mitsuo tries to smile, "...Yeah, just keep calm. We have to do the best we can." It's amazing they haven't spotted us yet...Maybe we can use that... * Mikari prepares to lose the templar on her and leans towards the trees!! >> Templar 1's action. Combo attacks Mikari! 13 damage...10 damage! >> Dylan's declaration. * Dylan roars and bellows and performs retribution! * Mikari winces and swears as the templar catches up with her and knocks her back. >> Templar 3's declaration. Prepares to combo attack Nathan! * Nathan snarls, "Bring it choirboy." >> Feray's declaration. * Mikari regains her balance and decides to scrap the idea of running for the trees. She instead turns around and gets ready to cast a grudge spell on Templar 1! * Feray gets ready to do some blood letting on Templar 3. >> Mitsuo's action! Roaring gale, tear them apart! * Mitsuo spins around quickly, and throws out his hand. The motion kicks up a green dust devil that chases down the enemy and knocks it for a loop! >> Mitsuo casts Howl! Templar 2 takes 30 damage...Templar 1 takes 33 damage! >> Nathan's declaration. * Nathan charges his body again with energy >> Jalanda's action! A great calamity is in your future... Tower! * Jalanda fluidly hurls a card at Templar 2 that affixes itself mysteriously to their person, embellished with the symbol of a great fortress struck by holy lightning. The skies above rumble briefly, before a bolt of power strikes down upon the foe like it's effigy, rendering them helpless and dazed for a time. >> Jalanda executes Tower on Templar 2. 5 damage! >> Feray's action! * Feray leaps at Templar 3 and slams into him, slashing like a wild woman! >> Feray executes Bloodletting on Templar 3. 53 damage! >> Cassidy's action! Is berserk...combos instead of casting a spell! * Cassidy lunges at Templar 3, her own enraged attack almost a mockery of her typical poise! * >> Cassidy combo attacks Templar 3. 17 damage...22 damage! >> Templar 3 is done for! >> Templar 2's declaration. Prepares to combo Mitsuo! Ack! We've been spotted! >> Dylan's action! * Dylan spins like a top, crunched flesh and bone and also hurting his foe. * Erellisae nods at Mitsuo's warning, sighting towards the Templat that spotted them. "I got him..." >> Dylan combo attacks Templar 2. Miss....26 damage! >> Erellisae's action! * Erellisae grins. "There!" She lets the Burnflame fly, right into Templar 2's face! o_O * Dylan seems to be ignoring the fact that his left leg almost went out of joint, and is glaring at the Templar for still standing! And loses his eyebrows to the spell. >> Erellisae casts Burnflame on Templar 2...66 damage! Templar 2 is toast! X_x * Jalanda sets about preparing her healing arts as the battle rages on... >> Mikari's action! * Erellisae nods, smiling, as she kneels low, still watching over the cover of the treeline for what may happen next. "Got him, Mits." Thanks Erel... ^^ Hey, need a light? ^_^ * Mikari crouches down midway, clasping her hand... then rises up quickly, letting loose the power from her hand to sends flames shooting in a beeline towards Templar 2 2! >> Mikari casts Burn! on Templar 1. 13 damage....Templar 1 is done for! X_x >> Battle won! * Nathan dissapates his aura, and surveys the battlescene for more trouble * Dylan runs at Jiandir! * Feray twirls her sword around her body once more and takes a step forward... * Mitsuo grins, "...Heh! That'll show 'em!" Keep on your guard everyone Their attackers incapacitated, the group looks around and sees that the other soldiers are also down. Jiandir is looking very perturbed. He speaks to one of his archers, who draws a bow and aims it in the general direction of Jahla, and another aims at the place where the spells were coming from Mitsuo and Erellisae! Watch out! * Erellisae pales. "Get down!" Mitsuo! Erel!! * Erellisae ducks low, grabbing Mitsuo's arm and dragging him with her! * Mitsuo pales, and ducks! O_o * Dylan is mildly oblivous and is going full pelt at Jinadir. [Jiandir] I give you one last chance. If you do not agree to cooperate... * Feray snarls, backing her ears. More archers start arming their bows....and torches are passed around. Fire arrows! No...no! [Jiandir] ...We will burn your village down. * Nathan charges at Jahla, trying to get in the way of the archer's fire * Mikari blinks in surprise. O_o "No!!" If one straw burns, I'll extract your nails one by one, Jiandir. [Jahla] For the last time, no! *She dives to the ground as Nathan charges.* . o O (Stinking fanatics!) * Mikari sprints towards the flame threat in a panic. * Feray narrows her eyes but begins to back up towards the tree with Mitsuo and Erel in it.. Everything happens at once then. Arrows zoom through the air, one nicking Nathan's shoulder as he barrels into Jahla.... Erel...Get...get down! ...More arrows fly over Mitsuo and Erellisae's heads. The archers light the fire arrows, preparing to fire... * Erellisae blinks suddenly, watching Mitsuo. "Ut-oh..." She scrambles out the way, recognizing what's coming. The first of the fire arrows flies through the air, its flaming point aimed directly at the branches of the tree right above Mitsuo and Erellisae! No...!!! * Jalanda begins to chant, intoning to the spirits of the frozen north. Erel...we need to get down...! O_o It's not safe here! * Feray turns and sprints for the tree! A fire arrow thunks into the trunk of the tree right above Mitsuo's head; the bark begins to burn! * Erellisae ducks, yelping, and starts to make her way down the tree as fast as she can. o_O; Several soldiers step in front of Dylan as he runs forward, swords raised. * Nathan ignores the nick on his shoulder, gets back on his feets and charges at the archers this time * Mitsuo climbs behind Erellisae, "Be careful!" So foolish... perhaps you numb even to the light of the Spirits... * Dylan growls, and attempts to leaps over them! The archers aim at Nathan now, arrows flying within a finger's width of his face. * Mikari swears loudly and wishes very harshly that she could use water magic..... * Feray twirls and stares as the archers almost get Nate....her eyes darken with rage. Jalanda's spell extinguishes the first fire arrow, but there are more on the way.... As Mitsuo and Erellisae climb down, more arrows whiz past. So far there are no more fire arrows... I wil not allow this! * Erellisae nods at Mitsuo's words, before looking down and making an exasperated noise. "Need to be fast, though..!" She speeds up as much as she can. ^^; * Jalanda casts a watery blast at the tree that is ablaze nearby, aiding Erel and Mitsuo's escape hopefully unscathed, but she cannot handle all the projectiles flying... * Mikari looks back and forth desperately. . o O ( Geez...are these people crazy...?! Destroying an entire town...! ) * Feray looks up to Mitsuo and Erel. Drop! I'll catch you! Come on! Erel first! ...Suddenly, as Mitsuo climbs, an arrow pierces his shoulder! She...-AGH! ! * Mikari reacts without thinking and jumps on top of a hut, shouting at the top of her lungs.... "STOP!!!" * Mitsuo lets out a strangled scream, then looks down dazedly at arrow protruding from his shoulder, before he loses his grip, and begins to fall to the ground! * Erellisae bites her lip, then nods, letting herself fall just as Mitsuo gets an arrow in his shoulder. "FERAY! Get Mitsuo! * Feray wideyes as both Erel and Mitsuo fall O_o * Erellisae immediately starts doing what she can to cast a wind spell to cushion her fall Several people DO stop as Mikari shouts, the din lulling somewhat, just enough for everyone's eyes to suddenly turn to Mitsuo as he falls, and there is a green flash of light.... * Jalanda wideyes. "No.. no, this is not the time..." . o O (Oh...NO) * Feray barely begins to move as the flash erupts, making her stagger to a stop, wincing. Great, frond-like green wings sprout from Mitsuo's back for an instant, allowing him to float to the ground. As soon as his feet touch, the wings vanish again, and he staggers, his head whirling... ...Tell us what you want!! I'm not gonna let you destroy this village over s'm stupid religious quest!!! * Nathan senses what's about to happen, and turns his charge, trying desperately to reach Mitsuo now Everything is dead silent for a moment as the army stares. * Erellisae lands roughly on her back, wincing as the wind spell fails to quite take out the force of the fall. She looks up, and wide-eyes. "Oh no... Mitsuo..." * Mitsuo drops to his knees, dazed. O_o * Feray rushes for Mitsuo, breaking out of her trance... "Mitsuo!!" * Dylan takes this oppurtunity to weave past a few soldiers, confidant that the others have things in hand * Mikari falls back, halting her erratic speech as Mitsuo obviously has become the important element here. O_o ...I...I think...I just screwed up... A second passes, and then several of the soldiers begin to shout angrily. Some can be seen fitting arrows to bows and aiming straight at Mitsuo! Others have fallen to their knees. Many are simply looking bewildered....Jiandir stands there in shock. ! * Jalanda begins to move unnaturally quick, and stands in front of the dazed Mitsuo. * Erellisae scrabbles to her feet with a wince, standing in front of Mitsuo and Feray, glaring at the army in front of her. Her hands glow white as she concentrates on a spell. "Don't hurt him!" Call them off Jiandir. * Feray skids to a stop in front of Mitsuo, opening her arms. * Nathan skids to a stop between Mitsuo and the army, trying to intercept any incoming arrows with his body Two soldiers retain their wits and hold up their weapons as Dylan approaches Jiandir, but most are distracted. Jiandir meets Dylan's eyes. * Dylan stands defiant Jiandir raises his voice and shouts. [Jiandir] STOP THIS INSTANT! After a moment, the soldiers all freeze. * Feray snarls.. * Mitsuo looks even more dazed at the army's reactions. This is obviously not what he expected. * Nathan breathes heavily, his eyes flashing with angry defiance Now that you are acting like you should have in the first place... Jiandir makes a few muttered commands, then steps forward, escorted by three soldiers, and approaches Mitsuo. He seems to ignore Dylan for the moment. ^^; * Mitsuo scrabbles back a bit from the soldiers, the arrowhead dribbling blood. * Dylan follows, Jiandir, warily. * Nathan doesn't move from his place, intent on keeping Jilandir away from Mitsuo * Feray jerks and straightens, stepping into the path... "....over my dead body." Jiandir stops a few yards away from Mitsuo. * Erellisae holds her determined stare at Jiandir, her hands pulsing white light as she steps next to Feray. "Don't come any closer." He eyes Feray with a raised eyebrow, then scans the crowd of others. He stares at Mitsuo then, ignoring the others.... If I see so much as a hint of steel I'll blow all your asses to mars [Jiandir] You, boy. How did you come by that power? Do you realize what you have done? I...I don't know! I honestly don't know! * Jalanda turns around and begins to tend to Mitsuo's wound as Jiandir approaches, she turns her hooded head. * Feray remains vigil with Erel, glaring angrily.. [Jiandir] Don't lie to me, boy! There is no natural way you could possess such power. What are you? Don't lie to me. If you have stolen that power, stolen those wings... * His eyes go wide. [Jiandir] The Lady Feena...is this why we could not find her? What have you DONE, boy?! ...What?! No!! NO! I didn't do anything to her! I swear it! If you were not so blind, you would know the answer to such questions... it is obvious why Feena yet runs from your kind. . o O (Is he mistaken... or does he know something we don't ... ) * Feray blinks, a little confused at the odd accusation. But she doesn't falter. ... Jiandir signals, and twenty soldiers rush up to join him. [Jiandir] If what you say is true, we will find out. You are under arrest for the use of power which is not rightfully yours, and you are under suspicion for the assault and kidnapping or murder of Lady Feena, the Icarian. *Several of the soldiers step forward, weapons raised...* Are you people nuts?! O_o I didn't do ANYTHING to her! * Nathan growls threateningly * Dylan attempts to punch Jiandir out, or at least slap him. * Mikari glares at the militant sect with hatred, especially centered on Jiandir. * Feray steps forward to protect Mitsuo, snarling. * Erellisae snarls, the light intensifying... "He hasn't done /anything/! We've been travelling with him all this way! We'd /know/! How on /earth/ do you steal an Icarian's power?" * Feray twirls her sword threateningly. Next person who moves forward starts breathing out of the back of their head! ...You idiots. You've gotta be the most damn BLINDSIGHTED people I've ever seen. * Mikari steps up to Jiandir. Jiandir turns malevolent eyes on Dylan, and the Lainian runs into what feels like a solid stone wall. If I have to fight to my death to prove he's not at fault, I will. I'll take down half your damned cult, too.... Grrr... Erel, get ready for this. * Jalanda removes the offending arrow slowly from Mitsuo's shoulder, ignoring the accusations. Poor little boy is reject by his crush, and now he throws a temper tantrum * Feray drops to aggressive stance, snarling. * Erellisae nods as Feray speaks. "I'm here to protect him, too. You knew what I was all along, didn't you, Jiandir?" [Jiandir] If you wish to prove his innocence, you will do so in a court of law with proper evidence. Not by killing. * More soldiers advance, surrounding them. Evidence? You don't even have evidence of a crime you troglodyte! * Mitsuo bites down a scream as Jalanda pulls the arrow out. He glances about at the soldiers, seeing how many are approching, and doesn't like what he sees. You've got 'em in the flesh, and yet you don't even LISTEN to your own "DEITIES." you damn HYPOCRITES. [Jiandir] And yes, Erellisae, I knew what you were. I give you this chance to speak for us. It may be your last. Choose wisely. * Feray bristles and something snaps in her gaze....she tenses. * Jalanda whispers to Mitsuo, "I'm sorry you couldn't awaken to a happier sight, Mitsuo..." ...It's...It's okay Jalanda... Soon, each one of the group finds themselves with several blades pointed at them, not more than a few feet away. * Mikari doesn't change her stance except to glare at Jiandir more. . o O ( Thee's no way they can stop them all... ) * Feray slaps lightly towards the enemy blades, muscles rippling as she considers how to rip these fools apart, dying or not.. * Nathan does not finch from the advancing soldiers, and prepares to fight I must say, Leen and Feena can be none other than paragons of virtue, not to have killed a worm like you on sight, Jiandir. * Erellisae nods, glaring at Jiandir. "One chance? Leave him /alone/. He has done nothing to harm Feena, and we've been with him all this way. How can an Icarian's power be stolen? I know him. He'd do nothing of the sort even if he knew how. He's innocent. He just needs to find out who... what he is. Just like I did." Erel... * Feray bares her teeth at the nearest soldier and lashes out with her sword! * Nathan throws a punch at the first soldier who gets into swatting range! [Jiandir] You do not know, then, of the legends of how Gaia was first created...? Humans stole the power of the Icarians. Power they were never meant to have...power that nearly destroyed the world. I did NOT steal anything! I've done nothing! Jiandir points an accusing finger at Mitsuo. "Do you want him to bring that destruction on us again?" No, of course not! But I didn't hurt Feena! I don't know why I'm like this... * Jalanda arises once she knows Mitsuo is no longer wounded, feeling the steel weapon pointed at her to which she responds with an equally steely stare at it's master. "Do you want to bring destruction upon yourselves again...?" The man shakes his head. "Erellisae Baran, I give you this one last chance. If you join us as a priestess, you will be honored. Oppose us, and we will show you no mercy. We will kill you if we have to in order to see justice done." * Mikari looks over at Feray and sighs very faintly, not changing her expression. She would do the same in a different situation, but only if it were to ensure escape... Inwardly, she hopes Feray gets to as many of them as possible. * Erellisae continues to watch Jiandir with the same determined glare, the white light pulsing off her hands. "I don't care how Gaia was created. Mitsuo is Mitsuo. He wouldn't steal a thing. If you know what I am you know my race's job. I'll protect him until he understands what he is and who he is. He won't harm anyone. I know he won't. Let him be himself, and let me be myself." I am of the brood of Rorqual! I surrender to NO ONE! Jiandir shakes his head. [Jiandir] He has won you over with his lies. I will listen to no more of this. * He gestures, and soldiers dart forward to grab Mitsuo. * Feray howls and leaps at the soldiers! * Jalanda puts her hand out. "Wait." * Nathan throws himself at the soldiers! Get AWAY FROM HIM! Who wants some?! * Mitsuo 's face hardens, and he closes his eyes. After a short time, he opens them and there is a sense of resolve in them, "Wait." Ten soldiers each go after Feray and Nathan slashing with their weapons in order to subdue the two. Many of the soldiers are injured in the mad frenzy. Finally, one lands a heavy blow on Feray's injured arm, then follows with a sword hilt to the head. I said WAIT! * Feray cries out and collapses! * Erellisae shakes her head, aiming the wildly coruscating spell in her hands at the soldiers. "No! LEAVE HIM ALONE!" Enough! No more blood will be shed this day for undue cause! One of the soldiers manages somehow to get Nathan in a stranglehold; thus subdued, they stop and listen to Mitsuo. Jiandir arches an eyebrow at him. If you desire us to be tried under the law of man and the Spirits, let it be done. * Feray doesn't move on the ground, breathing steadily though. She looks like she'll have a bad headache ;_; * Mitsuo glares at Jiandir, "...I'll go peacfully with you...if you promise to leave this village...and not harm my friends." * Nathan continiues to struggle, shouting incoherently in his naitive tongue * Erellisae blinks in surprise, the energy dissipating from her hands. "N-no... Mitsuo... you know what they'll do..." If you truly are representives of the Icarians, you will not promote more bloodshed with this offer I'm giving you! Jiandir eyes Mitsuo for a moment, then slowly nods. [Jiandir] Your terms are accepted. * Mikari closes her eyes and sneers silently. The soldiers, at a gesture from Jiandir, start toward Mitsuo again. * Mitsuo nods once, and stands, slowly, in pain, waiting to be apprehended, handcuffed, whatever. * Erellisae shakes her head, taking a step backwards. "N-no..." The soldiers grab Mitsuo's hands, pulling his arms behind his back and binding his wrists. One soldier on each side of him grabs his shoulders and marches him towards Jiandir. * Mitsuo looks back to the others, "...Feena...You guys have to find her! She's the only one who can fix this..." * Nathan glares hatefully at Jiandir * Jalanda holds her place, offering no further resistance, but she is no doubt troubled by this deep down. The soldiers keep their weapons raised as they back away, guarding Mitsuo from any attempted rescue. Jiandir looks over his shoulder as they leave. [Jiandir] If you wish to prove his innocence, come to the trial in Nendasa. Will you be kind enough to provide transport? * Mikari snorts at Dylan's comment, keeping her eyes on Jiandir. (lowly) En tach shu vir, elo baj feridir de gugat fun diis wadoai fien lamoda bethade wuq baj! (shouted) Shau Jiandir ves?! * Mitsuo looks over his shoulder one last time at Erellisae, mouthing, "I'm sorry", before he's dragged roughly away. Jiandir raises an eyebrow at Dylan. [Jiandir] Transport? We are an army, not a transport service. With that, they head back towards the jungle, Mitsuo in tow. Jiandir completely ignores their protests, including Nathan's incomprehensible words. * Nathan spits at the army as they pass, then goes to check on Feray Feh Feray seems dazed, almost unconscious, and rather bruised. Apparently no serious injuries, however...she groans and tries to sit up. * Dylan slams a fist into a tree, and licks his bleeding knuckles Easy, we got beat down good * Erellisae stands still, then looks up at Jiandir. "Wait. Take me with you. You know I'm meant to protect the Icarians... and this way you get your precious little Lumian, too." She nearly spits the last clause. ^^; * Nathan helps Feray to her feet * Mikari lets out a long exhale, and looks away in disgust... partially at herself for having been able to do nothing about it. We can get there in time anyway, we have a plane. * Mikari raises her head in some surprise at Erel. Before they are quite away, Erellisae hears Jiandir's response. "You had your chance, girl." With that, the footsteps fade off into the jungle. * Jalanda casts a very wide alheal amidst the battered party, and the Tenkali ranks. It's effects even spread to some of the straggling behind Icarian troops who were more seriously hurt. I do not believe that Mitsuo stole power, but his wings *are* similar to what Feena's are meant to be.. and only 2 Icarians are meant to live at any one time. * Mikari watches the army slowly leave, then drops her hands to her knees. Great... now we've gotta figure out whether to buy this trial shite or just bust in an' try to rescue 'im... Some of the Tenkali approach, hesitantly. They can see a few more standing over Jahla, who was knocked unconscious during the battle, trying to bring her around and explain what happened. I think we'll have to go along with the trial, at least for now.. * Jalanda walks over slowly to Erelisae, putting her hands on the smaller girl's shoulders from behind, watching the last templars retreat. * Erellisae slumps to the ground, but watches Jiandir leave, blinking back tears, the white energy glowing around her hands again. "I know, Dylan. But... we know he's done nothing. And it's my job to prove that or get him out of there..." Gathering fragments of the Spirit stone, if that is what they are, is this a good thing..? * Mikari finally starts to regain some of her usual composure, and begins to realize how strangely she acted during this strife. You have not failed him, Erellisae... you have done more than anyone. It will not end in such a way... * Mikari looks about at the village, and the trees and huts that narrowly escaped the fire... * Mikari turns back to Erellisae, an uncertain look on her face. Some of the Tenkali are looking at them questioningly, wondering what to do. Jahla approaches slowly. The blind will be made to see, one way or the other. * Jalanda backs off after those words, looking towards the Tenkali. * Erellisae sighs, and leans back, looking and feeling rather older than normal, the energy dissipating from her hands. --; "I know... It won't end like this. I won't let it." They didn't come here t'nab Mitsuo... I... wonder what they REALLY wanted, an'... whether we kept it from 'em... Jahla walks up to them. [Jahla] I won't pretend to understand or like what just happened, but let us get you to the healer and find some food and rest for you before we talk. We are indebted to you this day for helping to protect our village. I am sorry it was at such a cost to yourselves. * Mikari looks down at the bracelets on her wrists critically, then drops her arm to her side. * Mikari looks down at her single wound, just now noticing it, it seems. She looks around for more, and is somewhat surprised none of the arrows flying past found their mark on her. * Erellisae sighs. "They could've been coming here for who knows /how/ many things... trouble is, how do we get back to Nendasa...?" Jahla begins walking toward the inn, waiting a bit for the others to follow before she continues. ...Alright... n'much else we can do at this point an'way. * Jalanda begins the trek back, looking weary. "I have faith the Spirits will provide an answer." * Erellisae picks herself up off the ground slowly, checking on Feray. "... I hope so..." * Mikari follows Jahla off towards the medics, looking bitter in a way, but also rather shifting and confused. ==Session End== *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 28.0: The Icarian Army | Location: Tenkala village, morning, July 8 | Session End' Session Close: Tue May 14 23:19:18 2002