Session Start: Mon Jan 21 19:33:22 2002 *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 34.0: The Island of Encos | Location: Cereshanti, July 15, early afternoon | Crappy GrandiaRPG summary/primer at http://whafroofdeath.rpgcafe.net/temp/grandiarpg.html | Session Start' ==Session Start== The town is peaceful in the afternoon sunlight, but soon it is disturbed by the sound of pounding feet, coming down the path from the beach.... * Nathan hurries back to the village, his mind racing, looking for a plan * Erellisae heads quickly towards town, Mitsuo in tow. "I'll get Feray... have we get any idea where the others went? Or if there's a mayor here?" ^^; * Mitsuo follows behind Erel, "I think she's still at the healer's, right?" Yes * Nathan hurries to the mayor, knowing that there is precious little time * Erellisae nods to Mitsuo. "You try to find some of the others, I'll get sis." She heads off healer-ways. * Jalanda follows to the village with haste, keeping her eyes on the rest of the group and the merman as many things flash through her mind... Right! * Mitsuo runs off to find everyone. * Nathan bangs on the door to the mayor's house Open up! This is an emergency! * Feray is, of course, resting up in her cot at the healer's. ^^ Footsteps shuffle to the door, and a middle-aged man peers out, looking perturbed. "What is it?" * Erellisae skids to a halt next to the healer's door, and knocks. ^^; Listen to me! You have to get everyone out of the town and to the far side of the island, right now! * Mikari appears behind Nathan as he pounds on the door. "There ya are. What's all th'racket 'bout?" She squints at the mayor. The mayor blinks. "Why? What's wrong?" He looks skeptical of these newcomers. * Jalanda comes up behind Nathan, staring a bit at the man. "It is true. Cereshanti is in grave danger, a destroyer comes bearing the cursed spirit-hunger of Gaia." Get everyone out of town now, before its attention is drawn here! * Feray jerks awake as she hears the knocking at the door. She glances around for the healer, backing her ears. She shrugs finally and yells out. "C'mon in." DO IT! * Erellisae heads in quickly, walking up to the bed and gesturing outside looking worried. "Uhm. Lemme recap. Really big fish, Nathan says it steals souls and can't be killed, need to evacuate the village. How're /you/ doing?" ^^; * Jalanda looks over her shoulder. "It has passed into the forests now, but time is short. It's appetite shall not be sated by such things, and it will progress here next." * Mikari is taken aback. O_o; "Eh, looks like I missed somethin'..." ....alright. Uhm. Are you saying there's a soul eating fish about to kill us all? The mayor glares at them, then finally shakes his head. "Fine, fine." He exits the house and starts to hurry around town to give orders. * Nathan looks at Mikari, "Unfortunately, yes." It... uh... got distracted and wandered off for now. ^^; * Mitsuo hurries back to the group, with Cassidy behind him! * Feray stares at Erel for a moment before breaking down into laughter. ^^; * Nathan looks at Mikari and Jalanda, "Get everyone else together in the center of town. We need to make a plan and fast." * Cassidy follows, her mind quickly working out a plan.. * Maybe we can taunt him away with worms! Really big fearsome worms! ^_- * Erellisae giggles briefly, before turning serious. "I know how it sounds, but... Nathan was absolutely serious. Panicking, almost." ^^; ^^; I s'pose now'd be a bad time t'ask what's goin' on. * Mitsuo pants just a bit, "I told Cassidy everything. What next?" * Jalanda nods, remaining calm. "Yes." * Feray loses some of her cheer and sighs a bit, motioning to her legs. I can't walk. When we get together I'll recap Mik What do you expect me to do? ^^; * Nathan hurries to the center of town * Jalanda turns and seeks the healer's hut... * Erellisae thinks, then holds out a hand. "Wanna grab a shoulder?" ^^ Alright, 'guess that's th'best I can expect... *she heads off running to gather up some of the locals* * Feray eyes the smaller woman and looks wry for a moment before shrugging and grabbing onto Erel's hand. She begins to pull herself out of bed and to her feet, wobbling like a child. "Guh...this'd better be a really mean fish." * Nathan stops on the town square, looking worriedly out towards where the Angler went * Erellisae puts Feray's arm around her shoulders, then helps balance her with an around around the huntress' waist. "That okay?" * Feray nods and leans a little to the side, grabbing her knife belt. "Yep. Let's roll, littlebit." * Erellisae nods, guiding Feray towards the door and out. ^^ * Jalanda appears in the doorway of where Feray & Erel are. "I had hoped your rest would not be disturbed so soon." * Syri kwuus and hops out from under Feray's bed, hopping up onto Erel's head! * Erellisae blinks as she gets Carro-ed and then Jalanda-ed in quick succession. ^^;; * Feray walks with Erel and casts Jal a tired grin. "Yeah well...you die, you get revived, life goes on....big fishes threaten death for townsfolk..." . o O (Come on Nate, think! There's got to be a way out of this trap..) * Jalanda nods. "Such is fate. Can you walk?" * Cassidy slows a moment, considering things.. * * Nathan runs through merfolk history, looking for some loophole to exploit Yep. As long as Erel doesn't fall over, I'm fine. Lead the way. ^^; * Erellisae nods, giving a thumbs up. "Let's get to Nathan." * Jalanda extends an arm to help manage Feray if necessary, starting the procession out to the square. * Feray walks with the aid of both pretty women and looks towards the center of town, picking out the familiar shape of Nate. * Nathan starts pacing, obviously agitated * Erellisae, supporting Feray, heads a little slowly up to Nathan. "So... what do we do?" Try to stay calm, Nathan. Nothing will be gained from excess agitation. * Feray leans into Erel, grimacing as her legs tremble. She casts Nate a faint grin. "We stop this thing, of course. Somehow." I think better when I move Yeah...what do we do...? By now the villagers are starting to evacuate, in a rather orderly fashion, all things considered. * Jalanda draws in a long breath... closing her eyes. "Do you intend to fight it?" * Nathan waits for the entire party to assemble Nathan said it couldn't be killed... I guess blowing it up is out of the question. How'd you stop it last time? :/ * Mikari arrives at the town square, shouting out to some villagers to keep moving. When the Great Angler first went mad, we merfolk quickly learned that it was unkillable. So we set a trap for it A trap... * Mitsuo hmms. * Feray glances around a little, squinting at the light. She perks at the mention of a trap. A thousand merfolk drew the Angler into an undersea cavern, and once it was inside the cavern, its opening was plugged by a black pearl, cursed so that the Angler could not lift it * Mikari walks in on Nate's explanation and blinks as she realizes it's a "fish story." Those merfolk that baited the beast were trapped inside with it. There was no other way to get it into such a desolate place otherwise Nice. So what we need is a huge pearl and someone to use as bait? * Feray grimaces a bit and backs her ears. * Cassidy slows to a stop, speaking as though yet considering.. * I think I'm gonna go back. I think I can stop it. No, that won't work How, Cassidy? Fidelio walks up, Jake in tow. [Fidelio] There-a has to be a better way than-a that. :/ * Feray raises an eyebrow towards Cassidy. * Nathan looks at Cassidy as if she's gone mad Explain I'm afraid as we are, we cannot approach it. You will most certainly die. * Erellisae looks down at the floor in thought. * Cassidy shakes her head. * I can't really explain it.. you'd just have to trust me. And run. Run as fast and far as you can. No army. No airships. No anyone. Just me. I'm afraid you're going to have to do better than that this time That's insane. By yourself? O_o You'll be killed! * Cassidy grins, though perhaps it may not be as honest a grin as others she has had. * * Erellisae blinks, and eyes Cassidy, looking serious. "That's what you plan, isn't it? To get killed along with it?" * Nathan runs a hand over his face * Jalanda bows her head. "There are other possible futures, where noone has to perish...." It's a SPIRIT. You can't kill it. Nobody can. Not even Gaia could No, Erel.. I won't die. * She grins more sincerely this time. * I always come through. But, it takes time to put itself back together, yes? If we hurt it enough we may buy time to work out a better way. What the 'ell?... Cassidy, you gotta stop expectin' t'play hero; it doesn't ALWAYS help, ya know... Right, we're a group and we'll come up with a solution as one. According to lore, the Angler can rebuild its body in a matter of moments. That won't buy us any time at all * Feray shakes her head. "Not happening, Cass. We find a better way. Together." Fidelio thinks. [Fidelio] Nathan...you said it was a Spirit? Then-a how is it that it-a destroy everything it-a meets? Eh? *Looks confused* I.. I don't want any of you hurt.. please.. just go with me on this one? * Jalanda holds an awkward silence a moment. "There is a way." There is? * Mikari frowns in a disapproving sort of confusion, along with Fidelio (though it is a little hard to compare the two) It eats souls, Fidelio. It literally swallows anything it comes across and then...well...use your imagination * Erellisae shakes her head forcefully. "We all go. What if something goes wrong? We're friends, right? We stick together. Besides... I've had enough people nearly die on me. I don't want to risk it again." * Nathan looks at Jalanda If you have an idea I'm all for it * Feray reaches down idly with a free hand and rubs her thigh, wanting badly to be strong enough to thrash the thing. * Jalanda stiffens a moment, looking resolute. "Allow me to speak a moment then..." Well, whatever it is, out with it. Don't like lettin' people die right of th'bat... * Nathan listens This creature, you say it is spirtual... you are entirely correct in this asusmption. I felt it's power... it is... * Feray keeps an eye idly on Cass and listens to Jal... * Jalanda puts a hand to her chest. "You could say I know this force, because it haunts me every day." * Nathan raises an eyebrow Every ...day? ...That's true. *looks intently* ...Whatcha got in mind, Jal?... It is the taint, the mark of Gaia to all touched by it... it is through this curse that I have been awakened to the unknown. * Erellisae watches Jalanda in silence, occasionally glancing at Cassidy to check she's still there. * Cassidy looks over at Feray, who seems to be eying her.. * If I had any doubts, I'd have just ran off on my own to do it. But this time.. this time I'm asking you to trust me. I can do this. Wish me good luck, and run. And keep running. I'll meet up with you later. * Mikari withdraws a little in discomfort, though, as she is reminded of the pain Jalanda must be subject to... * Nathan grabs Cassidy before she can leave Not this time * Erellisae grins at Cassidy. "Start to walk away and I'll pin you to the air with magic." ^_~ Don't, Cass. I might be weakened, but I can not only track you but restrain you too. Cassidy, do not be headstrong in this critical moment. * Mitsuo frowns a bit at Jalanda, looking down. Only if I let you.. but trust me.. less people'd be hurt this way. That's the thing that heroes do, right? No more unnecesary heroics, not this time. Hear Jalanda out first * Dylan rests a hand on Cassidy's shoulder. "You should study recent history more, Justin proved to us that it is more important to do things the right way." * Feray shakes her head. "Jal has a plan. Let's go with her for a moment before you run off and make with the sparkly heroics." * Jalanda speaks firmly. "I felt a definite presence, a kindred spirit, though mad, I may know how to stop it long enough to defeat such a creature." * Erellisae watches Cassidy, looking a lot older than normal. "Maybe. But friends look out for each other." * Nathan looks back at Jalanda, "How?" * Mikari frowns. "They're right Cass, that way's already been proven not t'work. Listen to the woman." Gaia's power is negative energy, drawing in all positive Spirits and trapping them within it... it can even bend space, the effect is so great. * Cassidy shakes her head, doing her best to mask her frustration and discomfort.. * * Feray single handedly cinches her knife belt around her hips and grimaces a little at the very plain and ineffective medical shift she's wearing. * Mikari thinks about Jalanda's words. "Great... a posession case, eh..." * Dylan shivers at the mention of bending space.. However, there may be a way to diffuse it's energies in this fashion. You do recall how I rescued the mermen from the world beyond, Nathan, do you not? Yes ...Remind us, Jal? I need a refresher. * Jalanda shivers a moment. "The Dimension orbs are a focus of energy. I merely used it's power to direct my own, and reach out into warped space for their spirits. It's power can bridge the most infinite gaps this way." * Feray gazes at Jalanda blankly and ducks her head to whisper to Erel. "....what's she talking about?" A healer approaches.... I cannot quite explain this.. but you have to trust my words. Even i do not have understanding of the workings of this power completely... if I attempted such a thing to aid you... * Feray jerks her head up and eyes the healer with distrust. So what do we need to do to help make this possible? * Erellisae blinks, and looks up. "Uhm... well... there's a Spirit Place, if you like. And Jalanda can... do something there to stop the big fish. The Dimension Orbs... help her navigate it, I think..." Uh, so.... can we do that /again/?... Oh sure.. you're gonna trust her, but not me.. * Jalanda shakes her head. "I could visit much more destruction than you could ever imagine with an uncontrolled rift. If I tapped into a tainted area of the viel..." The healer folds his arms and scowls at Feray. .... * Feray scowls back. But. What do you want? Can't you see I'm being important and saving you from a soul eating fish? If I was able to locate empty space, I could direct it's power elsewhere, as I did in the Jiandir conflict. * Erellisae shakes her head, waving a finger at Cassidy sternly. "I /trust/ you. But I don't wanna see you hurt. If we're all together we're stronger." * Dylan blinks There is even the chance there is a great well of positive enrgy i could find to even overload it's hunger and render it inept for a time. I won't get hurt, Erel. I take risks sometimes, yes. But I always win. But this? This isn't a risk. I'll come out ahead. [Healer] You're not well enough to be out of bed. You should be evacuating to the mountains with the rest of the village. Let your friends take care of things here. >:| .... * Mikari frowns in annoyance as she watches the argument continue between Erel and Cassidy. * Nathan looks back at Cassidy, "You can quit now. We're not buying it." But to do so I need a powerful focus... I cannot channel such a force myself. * Feray eyes the healer quietly. A focus like what? Another orb? Or do you have a better plan? The green shards perhaps? ...Overwhelm its hunger? You're gonna feed th' thing? Won't that make it stronger 'ventually?.. The spirit stone shards, you mean? They're too small... * Erellisae blinks up at the healer, then at Feray... :/ Fidelio thinks, looking as if he wants to say something... * Feray looks petulant now and juts her chin out. "I can handle myself just fine. Shouldn't you be delivering a baby somewhere?" The healer scowls. "Your friends barely saved your life. I'm not letting you get yourself killed now." He looks at the rest of the party for help convincing her. ... * Feray scowls further and pries herself loose from Erel, taking a threatening step towards the healer....before falling over. .... Feray...It's okay. We'll take care of it...You...ack! O_o Mikari, I cannot say for certain. It's a risk you must decide if you wish to take. * Feray swears violently under her breath. Don't turn into me! * Erellisae dithers then acks, reaching to help Feray up. ^^; * Mitsuo helps Feray up to her feet. ^^; * Feray sighs a bit and eyes Mitsuo, then Erel in turn... "...." Let me go. Feray needs care. She needs all of you. I can do what needs doing alone. I've been doing things alone all my life. This'll be no different. ..Please.. The healer eyes her with a "I told you so" look. Agh, Feray. Stay'n bed... you can save us next time, deal?... * Feray grunts. ...fine. * Nathan gives Cassidy an 'absolutely not' look * Jalanda closes her eyes, concentrating. "Somewhere on this island... resonates a powerful presence in the earth... I feel it is similar, though not an orb persay." Sorry, Cassidy. If you told us what you were going to do.. perhaps. But.. I think Jalanda's way might be better. * Cassidy closes her eyes, and lets out an exasperated sigh.. * * Erellisae helps Feray up, putting an arm around her shoulders again, blinking at Cassidy, her expression curious. We should seek it, then... if this is the path you wish to choose for yourselves. * Syri takes this all in, being a silent ear, but kwuuing softly and hopping off Erel's head and making his way over to Cass. * Mikari narrows her eyes at Cassidy. "...Cassy, if you ARE our friend, you're NOT gonna go out there. I don't care whatcha think you've got up your sleeve." Then let's find this focus. We don't have a lot of time to waste The healer offers Feray an arm to help her to where the rest of the villagers are. * Feray looks down at Erel for a moment before unlatching from her once more, reaching out to grab the healer's arm. I'll be alright. Get going. He looks back for a moment, pondering. "Um....I don't know if this will help you, but..." * Erellisae blinks, and dithers again. "... but... I mean..." she motions towards Feray. And Feray... *looks her way* A good warrior knows when and how to fight. You will protect the village if I fail." * Mitsuo keeps quiet, biting his lip. What's that, longear? * Nathan looks at Feray, and nods to her before she heads off, trying to look reassuring, and not quite making it * Mikari sighs and shakes her head at all the additional chaos going on, then gets ready to leave. * Feray staggers a little and leans into the healer. She eyes the others. "Take care of each other. Littlebit, look out for 'em." * Syri clambers up onto Cassidy's small shoulder, kwuuing at the group defiantly. * Feray casts Nate a wry wink. * Erellisae looks vaguely torn, following after Feray a little. "... are you sure? I can stay..." [Healer] It's said that somewhere offshore of the island, there's a magical artifact made of a strange, jeweled material....I don't know, it might help you." * Cassidy keeps her head low.. her hair shadowing her face.. * * Feray chuckles halfheartedly and waggles her hand at her sister. "It's okay. Go. Kill the fish. Or whatever Jal wants you to do." A jewel... perhaps... He shrugs. "Not too many people know about it, but someone told a story of it the other day, and the foreign bard went off looking for it." Let's hope its the same thing we need * Mikari eyes Syri for a moment, and manages a cynical smile at the cute animal. Oh for christ's sake -_- Him AGAIN? What is he, placed by the fates to be our personal annoyance?! O_o * Erellisae takes a faint breath, then nods. "Feel a little more confident with you around, but... okay." She heads up to Feray, fishing something out of her pack and giving it to Feray, before whispering to her. We'd better hurry or he'll try to sell it to us in exchange for someone else's favor, and we'll have no choice but to kill him * Cassidy looks up. * See? We can avoid that twerp if you just let me do what I need to. The healer cringes and clears his throat. "Well, I'd better be going. The shinlan would know more about it. You can find his palace in the mountains." Any idea what to do after you've channeled the energy Jalanda? I suppose uncorrupting the thing is a bit unlikely.. Nice try Cassidy * Mikari catches who they're referring to, and promptly drops her stance to facepalm. And then to grind her forehead into hand. He starts to frogmarch Feray away. ^^; * Feray blinks a little and accepts it a little reluctantly before getting dragged along. She acks! * Erellisae shrugs her pack back onto her back, and heads back to the others with a wave to Feray. Okay! Ow! Alright! Easy there! * Jalanda manages a strange smile as she hears of the bard. "I cannot disprove that fact... he has his role in things." She loses it quickly though... * Feray waves before getting dragged off O_o See you soon Feray, promise Kwu. Dylan, I will do all i can to allow you the opportunity to be victorious over it. That is what I am called to do now. Kwuu kwuuu kwuuuuuuuuuuk! * Nathan jabs a thumb in the direction of the mountains We go. Now * Erellisae straightens herself up as she catches up, and nods slightly. "So... to the palace?" * Mikari groans. "Well, let's get 'is over with..." * Syri glares at Jalanda and Erel, and to some extent Nathan and Mitsuo. "Kwuu. Kwukwuu kwuu kwuukwuu." Fidelio blinks at Syri. O_o Indeed. Seeing as how we are walking anyway, care to tell us what your plan is, Cassidy? Just incase we need to fall back on it? Kwuu! Kwukwuukwuuu! Kwuu kwuu KWUU. * Syri nods to Dylan. * Cassidy glances at Syri on her shoulder. * Thanks for the vote of confidence, bud.. but they won't buy into it.. Kwu. We might if you'd actually 'tell us' for once, what it is Fidelio reaches up to pet Syri. :D My plan is to make sure everyone else is really far away from me, and from it. That's my plan. * Nathan glares at Cassidy as if she's stupid * Erellisae watches Cassidy curiously a moment, before looking up. "Let's go. Got a big fish to catch." ^^; * Mikari shakes hear head and rolls her eyes in exhasperation. "Whatever. if she won't tell us, let's get the 'ell out of here and do this while we still can." * Syri blinks and lets himself get petted, not really reacting in one way or another, instead kwuuing quietly to Cassidy and then casting another glare to Nathan as if he has no idea what she's talking about. No, Cassidy, that is your goal. But as I said, we have walking to do. We can walk and talk. Coming Fidelo? Lead it away? Is that what you're planning? Fidelio shakes his head. "I will-a go back to the ship and keep an eye out for-a the monster, and I will-a explain things to Jakino. Meet me there when you-a need me." Listen, Nathan.. I don't think you, or any of your people have really forgiven me for what I did with the Orb.. but I did that for a good reason.. and now.. I can stop that thing.. I promise. And that can be the first thing I do to make it up to all of you. Good luck, longear. We'll see you again. How? Explain that first. How do you plan to stop it. If you want to make things up to me and my people then be HONEST with us Fidelio nods, waving, and hops away. * Erellisae shakes her head slightly. "No... the first thing you can do is trust us enough to tell us what you're going to do. Not just 'get everyone away'." * Cassidy shakes her head.. * I.. I can't say.. not yet. It's just not possible to explain.. everything. I can do this, though. I can keep everyone safe. I dunno why.. I mean, I could march off and do it by myself if I wanted.. but somehow.. your approval is important.. tell me to go do it.. and round up everyone and get them a safe distance away.. * Nathan blinks at Cassidy as if she's gone insane By yourself? * Jalanda shakes her head. "Cassidy... don't be so quick to seek atonement." ...KWUU! KWUU KWU KWUUKWUU KWUU!! We will not approve unless you tell us what you will do. We might not approve after that. Let us first exhaust this line of investigation. * Nathan gives up trying to reason with Cassidy. "Mountains. We go. Now. Talk and walk." I will stop him, Dylan. That's what I'll do. * Nathan starts moving, not waiting an ymore * Dylan claps Cassidy on the back. "C'mon. Time to hustle" * Dylan follows Nathan Damn it all, Cass, we are all going to leave NOW, before everyone gets KILLED, ya hear??... *Mikari starts off after Nathan* * Erellisae heads off for the mountains with a faint sigh, looking back at Cassidy briefly with the same curious look. * Jalanda follows Nathan. "Cassidy, I can never tell you what to do with your destiny, but do not act yet. Trust in things a little longer." * Cassidy stumbles under the heavy slap on the back, quickly recovering. * Just.. just.. * Cassidy trails off.. * Rolling in from the sea is a wave of chilled air, accompanied by a sense of wrongness. Ahead, the mists of the mountain forests beckon from the path that leads toward the island's center. * Nathan pushes foward at a high pace, muttering darkly to himself * Syri barely keeps his balance, hissing at the giant hamburger on legs ...it's coming soon Great. * Erellisae nods slightly, turning back. "C'mon, Cassidy! If we don't get going I really /will/ pick you up and drag you along!" She turns, and hurries after the others. ^^ * Cassidy looks back to the mist, before returning her concerned gaze to the others.. following the mage-girl. * * Jalanda steps carefully, steadily into the forest. "Time is such a fragile luxury... let us hurry." * Nathan presses on up the mountain, growing more concerned as time passes The mist surrounds the group as they walk. The light that filters through the trees is growing dimmer as night approaches. So far they have seen no sign of a palace, although a few caravans of travelers have passed them, dressed in bright colors with at least a handful of people singing or playing instruments in each group.... * Erellisae follows after the group, looking faintly worried but keeping a determined face. * Mitsuo pulls his windbreaker tighter to his body, and hurries along. Ahead, the trees thin out to reveal a craggy mountaintop covered with grass and wildflowers. From here they can see out beyond the mists to the sea, sparkling in the flaming light of sunset.... * Mikari looks about with her typical wary half-frown, taking in the surroundings. * Erellisae sighs slightly. "Wish I could stop to enjoy the view..." ^^; Maybe afterwards * Jalanda makes steady pace, though she does acknowledge the musicians in passing... but nothing more. * Mitsuo sneezes. O_o Gah...er...sorry. Somethin' got up my nose. On the far end of the mountaintop, its outline dimmed by mist, they can see a stone structure that looks, if anything, like a rather small stone castle, complete with a couple turrets and an outer wall. . o O (Come on, where is this place already?) Enjoy each sunset for the moments you see it, but know that the next will be just as new, and just as good. * Nathan picks up his pace at the sight of the castle-ish-thing A light shines in the window of the tiny castle... ...Up there? * Mitsuo points to the light. Let's hope so The palace of the shinlan, I presume. * Erellisae nods. "... nice place." ^^; If not, then they sbould be able to point us on. The entrance to the building is a bit bigger than regular sized double doors, but it's complete with a portcullis. As they approach, they can hear strains of music from inside, as someone plays....a fiddle? * Erellisae blinks slightly, and glances at Mitsuo. ^^ * Mitsuo blinks several times. O_o * Jalanda listens carefully to the tune's quality as she approaches the portcullis. ...Whoever is playing is a lot better than me. Since my day so far keeps getting worse and worse, I bet it's Emmitt. You know, because that's the worst thing that could happen. Besides getting eaten by fish * Erellisae rubs her hands together slightly, her tattoos igniting in flame. "Goody. I'll look forward to this." Eheheh ^^; * Dylan coughs That is a skilled and familiar hand, indeed. Should we call out? Their conversation has apparently been heard. The music stops, and a moment later a spry, white-haired face peers out the upper window, smiling quizzically. "Rather late for visitors...." * Mitsuo blinks, and bites his tongue, realizing that this guy is not Emmitt. ^^; Apologies for any burden we may be. * Jalanda looks up to the man. "Apologies for disturbing your harmony, but we seek an audience with the shinlan..." * Mikari looks up and sighs, then turns to the others. "Uh, alright, who is this guy?..." * Mikari watches Jalanda and decides to shut her lip; for moment anyway. The man nods, smiling. "Well, you've found him. Come on in." He goes away from the window, and a moment later the portcullis is raised. The double doors swing open, and the man beckons them in... * Mitsuo looks to the others for a moment, then starts to head inside. * Dylan heads in, and bows slightly to the old man. * Jalanda does a nod to noone in particular, and enters the castle... The man ushers them into a tiny courtyard with a little garden in it, then leads them across to a door into the main building. "What are you doing here so late?" He smiles. "By the way, I am Kethis, the shinlan of Cereshanti." We're having... a bad day, ya might say. * Erellisae looks around as they walk through the castle. ^^ "We need some information to try to help save the town..." Kethis raises an eyebrow. "Oh?" * Jalanda bows respectfully. "They call me Madam jalanda, a seer of the lands of Zil Padon. My friends and I seek your counsel over a certain artifact." They enter a warm room that appears to be a kitchen. Kethis motions to a large table, putters about at the counter, then takes a seat at the head of the table, setting out cups and a pot of tea. ...Tea. * Erellisae blinks at the tea, then shrugs with a faint grin. ^^ * Mitsuo smiles at the guy's hospitality. * Jalanda gracefully accepts the tea. "Most kind of you." She pauses at the table, awaiting everyone to gather. Hmm. Thank you for your hospitality, though we may have to rush you slightly.. Kethis pours the tea and passes out the mugs. "So then...what are you saving this town from, anyway? And how can I help you?" * Nathan chafes at all the time being wasted, but complies * Mikari presses her thumb and ring finger to her forehead, a vein about to pop from having to endure teatime while a demon fish is about to kill a few hundred people, but forces herself not to say anything as she knows they have to jump through hoops to get help right now. It involves the coming of a creature of immense power from the sea. Possessed of the spirit-hunger of Gaia's. It's is only a matter of time before it arrives in Cereshanti. * Mitsuo reaches out and takes a sip of the tea. I seek the means to fight it, the rumors of a jeweled stone off the coast. They have said you know of it. [Kethis] Hmmmmmmm. * Mitsuo continues to sip his tea. Mmm. Tea. He sips his tea. "This is disturbing news...but I would advise you to calm down a bit. The creature will not attack the island itself for at least a few days." * Erellisae blinks. "But... how do you know that?" ^^; * Jalanda samples the tea between explainations. * Mitsuo looks up from a nearly finished cup of tea, "...Yeah, how do you know?" Kethis gives Erellisae a mysterious smile. "Because I am the shinlan of Cereshanti, of course." He shrugs and waves a hand to gesture out the window. "The shinlan has certain ties to the land, to the Spirits. I know certain things about this island and what will affect it. And I know that you have time to seek out the artifact you require." A few days?.... Uh... why?? ... * Nathan relaxes a little * Jalanda holds the cup firmly, bringing it down from her pale lips. "Is that so..." No 'fense, but why 'zactly should we trust ya that much? If you're wrong, a lotta people are gonna die... * Erellisae blinks, and nods. "I... see..." [Kethis] Yes...MY people, I might remind you. I wouldn't say this if I weren't sure. * Jalanda nods. "Yes, your words ring true. This is your land foremost." * Nathan takea a deep breath, trying to trust this fellow * Cassidy scoffs a moment, muttering to herself. * * Mikari furrows her brow and turns to Jalanda as she gives her confidence, at least in part. She is still not quite convinced. Kethis sips his tea. "So...you seek the Cyfaredd Telys, you say...?" is that what its called? Kethis nods. "Yes. It's an old legend of our people....in fact, you're the second group to mention it to me today." * Jalanda puts down the cup. "Was that group led by a man named Emmitt?" ... An old legend, eh... well, I actually don't mind that s'much... tell us more. *she leans forward and laces her fingers partially* [Kethis] Not led...consisted of. Emmitt, the foreign bard, arrived here this afternoon, alone, and asked me about the Telys. * Mitsuo glowers at the mention of Emmitt >_< * Erellisae blinks, and snarls just slightly. ^^; * Mikari slaps her hand to her face again, regretting her optimism in hoping that he wouldn't be in the general area. It is to be expected, I suppose... *pauses and places the cup down* please then, enlighten us to this legend. Kethis raises an eyebrow. "Not a friend of yours, then?" * Nathan represses the urge to swear Not really, no. No, he's a pest, putting it bluntly Not... uh... exactly. He nods. "No one is certain where the Telys came from, but some say it was a gift to the people of Cereshanti. Others say it was an artifact given to us for safekeeping by an ancient people, who were fleeing a great danger..." * Mikari quietly wonders whether that great danger had anything to do with the demon fish. * Erellisae blinks. "Ancient people? Which?" "Legends say they looked much like us- fair and slender. But they had long, pointed ears." He eyes Erellisae thoughtfully. "It is said that someday they will return for their treasure..." * Mitsuo blinks and looks to Erel, "...do you think...?" * Erellisae nods slightly. "That... would probably be me." ^^; Steppeing stones to that which you seek... perhaps... * Mikari blinks. "Erel...?" Kethis bows slightly to Erellisae. "In that case, it seems I have told you a story already familiar to you." * Erellisae sighs a little, then throws a wan smile Mikari's way. "Long pointy ears. Ancient race. Good with magic. Sound familiar?" ^^; * Jalanda nods slightly. "You could say such. But please, by all means continue, sir Kethis." Eheh. I shoulda known. ^^; Sorry kid, I'm no archaeologist; I just get the goods. Anyway, yer probably right. [Kethis] The Telys has great power, but it can only be used in a certain way. It is my guess that it can be used to enchant this creature who threatens us, so that you may attack and defeat it while it is rendered defenseless. If you try to defeat it without something to attract its attention, it will kill you before you can strike." * Erellisae hmms. "That'd be more than helpful... where is it?" :/ * Mitsuo sits and continues to listen for now. ...Well, 'lright, item number two on our checklist: one decoy. * Jalanda listens, taking this in... * Nathan glances at Erel for a moment, then back to their host [Kethis] The Cyfaredd Telys is hidden on the island of Encos, not far from the northern shore of Cereshanti. However, it will be difficult to retrieve. The ancients supposedly created the island, raising it from the waves and putting in place the safeguards that protect the Telys. Any suggestions as to what we can do after defeating it? * Erellisae blinks, and stutters slightly a moment. "An... island they created?" Kethis nods. "Yes...why? Did you not know of this?" ...Safeguards? What kind? Giant wall, spike traps, mile-wide ravine?.. * Nathan thinks * Erellisae sweatdrops slightly. "I'm still a little new to all of this, I only just found out rather recently..." ^^; * Jalanda shakes her head to Mikari... He shakes his head. "We don't know. None of the Cereshanti have ever set foot on the island." Hmm. [Kethis] Ahh. I understand then. *He smiles at Erel* * Mikari looks at Jalanda inquisitively. "Ya know this story?..." I think... if I get nearer, I might be able to figure something out. I mean, I've got the Talisman... Such safeguards would be a far cry from what you are envisioning... consider what was possible with magic and knowledge of Angelou, things which yet eprsist here... [Kethis] Then I take it you will set out in the morning to seek the island of Encos...? * Erellisae looks up, looking serious. "Definitely." We have no choice * Mikari looks around at the others, then sighs and leans back in her seat with her hands on the armrests. She is realizing the straightfoward "business" approach works better alone, and it isn't as good a time for it now. Yeah, we have no choice, really... * Cassidy shakes her head.. * Well Mits... 'guess we just have t'combine our knowledge and go on what w'got, eh?... [Kethis] Very well then. I have some spare beds in the adjoining rooms; feel free to make use of them. There should be some bread, cheese, and fruit in the cupboards; in the morning I will provide you with a hot breakfast and send you on your way early. * Mitsuo grins at Mikari, "Yeah, seems like we gotta." Thank you for your hospitality... Kethis smiles. "No trouble." * Nathan nods to Kethis He stands, heading for the stairs to the upper story. "Then I shall take my leave, unless you have more need of me." * Dylan strokes his chin toughtfully You kindness is reassuring in such a troubling time.... I would hate to interrupt you further. Kethis smiles, waves, and heads upstairs for the night. Ah, we can take this. It's just a big fish, eh? *she grins wryly and gets up from her seat, betraying her tenseness somewhere in the process* * Erellisae stares off slightly into the middle distance, toying with the talisman around her neck... * Erellisae nods to Nathan. "Say hi for me." ^^ * Mitsuo begins to look tired, and yawns a little. ^^; I sugest we all get some sleep * Mikari nods to Nathan, now standing directly behind the others with her arms crossed. * Nathan looks at Cassidy, "And that includes you. I don't want you going off galavanting and playing heroine during the night." Unless anyone has anything to discuss first? Cassidy? * Mitsuo glances sidelong at Cassidy for a moment. I won't act unless you fail. You better not fail, because people will die. And I never wanted that. I'll accept that then * Jalanda sits by the table awhile longer, alabaster hand fiddling with the now empty teacup. the proud, mannered woman that was speaking before now seems a bit distraught as Cassidy's words echo in her ear. * Nathan goes to get some sleep Well, THAT'S good t'hear at least... all things considered. Keep t'your word, Cass. * Mitsuo follows Nathan upstairs, to go to sleep in a nice, warm bed. * Erellisae watches Cassidy quietly. "I'll keep an eye on her for a while." ^^ * Syri hops after Cassidy, looking back to Erel. "Kwuu. Kwuu, kwukwuu kwuuu kwuuuwkwu!" * Erellisae watches Syri slightly. ^^; * Syri tilts his head and lets out a little anime mushroom-shaped sigh Kwuu. Kwuukwuu kwu kwuukwuu. Kwuuu? * Erellisae looks faintly amused, leaning on an elbow. "Uhm. Half past nine? Alent? Jake's shirt? I can't answer without knowing the question." ^^; Kwuu. Kwuu...kwuu kwuu kwuu kwuu... kwuu kwuu kwukwuu kwuu kwu kwuu kwuu?! Kwu. * Syri sighs .o( Fear... I don't like it. Will I be able to... no, there is no place for doubt, now. I must. ) * Mikari yawns faintly, a half-sigh. As she exhales, she turns and heads upstairs. * Jalanda arises, then quietly heads for the sleeping quarters. *** GMAmy changes topic to 'Grandia: New Horizons | Chapter 34.0: The Island of Encos | Location: The shinlan's palace, July 16, morning | Crappy GrandiaRPG summary/primer at http://whafroofdeath.rpgcafe.net/temp/grandiarpg.html | Session Resume' The next morning, after a hot breakfast, Kethis supplies the group with a few odds and ends that may prove helpful, as well as a bit of lunch, and sends them on their way. As they descend once more into the misty forests, they pick up their pace a bit.... * Nathan trods along, still somewhat anxious * Mitsuo follows behind everyone, keeping an eye out for trouble. * Erellisae walks along, watching the ground in thought, talisman held in her hand. There is a shambling rustle in the bushes to one side. Hmm? Someone there? ..? * Erellisae blinks, looking up, one hand going to her daggers. * Nathan smells the air, trying to get a read on what might be nearby * Jalanda has remained particularly silent most of the journey, though her feet certainly share that anxious feeling. The rustling catches her eye. * Mitsuo pulls out his rings, "...Possible encounter, guys." The sound stops, although a heavy presence hangs over the area. * Nathan holds his position * Mikari eyes it suspiciously and cautiously goes over to check the nearby area, looking around the source of the noise as well as at it. Hmm. Move on, or should I walk ov.. ah, Mikari is doing it. * Erellisae takes a couple of steps back, putting the talisman away and drawing her daggers. * Mikari draws her own dagger in the process... Suddenly there is a crashing of brush, and a gigantic bear lumbers out of the trees, claws bared, looking enraged! * Nathan takes a step back and draws his weapon! Agh! O_o * Erellisae eeps and moves back slightly. ^^; * Cassidy has her dagger out already.. * * Jalanda snaps her gaze to the bear, taking a step back on her good foot... Step back, Mikari. The bear growls and lunges forward to attack Mikari! Mikari! * Feray leaps down from the treetops abruptly and lands on top of the bear, amusingly dragging a whimpering young man behind her. His robes mark him as a healer's aide and he is pale with fear, his hazel eyes wide. Feray, however, looks gleefully happy as she pounds into the bear and sends it crashing in defeat to the ground. Straightening, she twirls her daggers once before sheathing them at her hips. * Feray is no longer clad in her regular clothes. Instead she is clad in new clothes she has recieved from the townsfolk, a tribal looking blackened leather battlebra and a matching frayed leather loincloth with dark metal lined belt and knife sheathes. Dark blue metal wrist braces fit both her wrists and she has sword sheath looped onto her back (complete with a sword), giving her a vaguely Amazon look. ...hey there. Going my way? F...F...F...F... * Erellisae blinks. Blinks again. * Feray stomps on the bear's head. * Nathan blinks, and then grins * Mitsuo falls on his butt. O_o * Erellisae laughs, and grabs Feray in a hug. ^^ I think we can make arrangements for you to tag along ;) Nice timing by the way ^_- * Feray ufhs a little and laughs, returning Erel's hug ;) And nice outfit too. Where'd you get that? Guh...hi...O_o * Dylan waves "Yo. You're looking better. Nate can fill you in" I lynched an old man! ^_- [Bear] @_@ Rrarawaraehgaehhhh.... [Translation: Itai....owchie...] Cool ^_^ * Feray jerks a thumb at the healer's aide. * Jalanda straightens herself, looking over Feray. Tell him to get lost, hmm? ;) * Nathan pries the healer's aide off of Feray The aide flails, falling on his butt. It would be unfair to put him in danger. * Mikari steps back, looking dazed, and buries face in her unarmed hand. She seems to be chuckling a bit, though. [Aide] She's not supposed to be out of bed! ;_; Now now, no sense you sticking around and getting mauled by other bears ^_^ * Mitsuo gets to his feet, and smiles, "Hey Feray, great to see you. You startled me! O_o" The aide sweatdrops. Aww. I bet you say that to all the sexy huntress women you meet, healer boy. ;) * Nathan looks at the aide * Feray blinks and winks at Mitsuo. ^_- So, Feray, how long did you track us for, waiting for a dramatic entrance? Tell ya what, go back and get the head healer, and maybe she'll listen. Quickly now. Time's a wastin' ^_^ ...quite awhile actually. Aw, you wound me, Dylan....my poor weak heart can't take such skepticism. ^_- * Erellisae grins at Feray and counts off on her fingers. "Well... big artifact we need on island to the north. Big artifact is Lumian too. Lots of Lumian obstacles on the way there. I'm sensing a theme. Emmitt's also on the way there to find it, I think." ^^;; The aide blushes heavily, then scrambles to his feet. O_o; * Nathan makes a shooing motion at the aide ^_- It was a compliment. Few people have such a flair for appearances. Scram already. She'll be fine ;) I'm kinda wonderin' whether ya pushed that bear INTO us, too, for your little entrance. ^_- * Feray blinks at Erel in amusement before fondly ruffling her hair. "Right then. Let's get there before my slimy ex does, hmm?" The aide takes off down the trail, muttering something along the lines of, "They're all /crazy./" * Nathan chuckles, the levety of the situation helping his mood emmensely ^_^ I see you haven't wasted a moment Feray. It is good to have you back. * Mitsuo just smiles, glad that everyone is back together. ^^ * Feray brushes herself off and smiles warmly at Jal. "Yeah well, you learn to treasure time in my situation. Thanks, girl." So, shall we resume our trek to certain doom? ^^ Now! Let's resume trekking to our certain doom, like the handsome merman said. * Feray snaps her fingers sassily and turns, pointing at nothing in particular. Okay, first off...no certian doom! That's way too final! This way! Anyway, now we are 10 once more, let us be off. * Mikari sits on the ground, her arms resting on her knees. "Yeah, good t'see ya. I guess you can walk jus'fine now." :P More like sticky situation, or perplexing encounter...nothing doom like! * Feray laughs and stops for a moment, turning to grin at Mikari. "I had motivation to walk, let me just say." * Feray casts Erel a fond look. * Nathan helps Mikari back onto her feet, and sets out again Hospital food that bad, eh? Did they serve you lemon geletin? Oh yeah. It was horrid. I prefer my food to be dead before I bite it. ;) They always serve you lemon geletin in hospitals. No, Mitsuo, they were saving that for the wrestling matches. * Erellisae sheathes her daggers again and returns the look with a faint smile. "Let's go kick fishy... and ex... butt!" :D ...Er...huh? O_o What does wrestling have to do with lemon jello? Heh, alright, girl. But if you start pushin' it, you're in for a good beatin'. ^_~ 6*Mikari takes Nathan's hand and pulls herself up easily, and gives him a smile* That's what I'd like to know O_o * Feray grins in amusement at the clueless males and starts off as well. ;) * Erellisae looks stern at everyone. "And I call first shot at Emmitt, by the way." ^^; * Jalanda shakes her hooded head. "Best not to ponder such a simple mystery, for a larger one awaits us..." I dunno, littlebit. He's seen me naked, after all. I think that gives me top priority on the butt kicking list. ;) * Nathan waggles a finger at Erel, "Leave something for the rest of us, OK?" ^_- Yeah, don't forget me! I want a piece! I'd at least like to pop the guy in the teeth once * Erellisae hmphs and sticks her tongue out. "Don' care. Me first." ^_~ * Jalanda says in a very odd, wistful tone. "...I envy you..." She then starts walking towards the island. Hrmph, if that's yer attitude, then I say whoever find Emmit first gets to clobber him first ^_- * Mikari snorts, figuring she'll leave dibs until he shows up. Heh, I'm with Nathan. * Erellisae grins, and ignites a tattoo as she waves a finger at Nathan. "I can get 'im from range." ^_~ * Feray chuckles and wraps an arm around Erel's shoulders, walking beside her sister. She pauses briefly before reaching into the pack nestled under the sword sheath to deftly tug out a book. She presses it into Erel's hands. Not if someone else get 'im first ;) * Dylan walks up to Jalanda and asks quietly "Are you ready for what you need to do?" * Erellisae takes the diary with a faint nod and smile, packing it in her backpack carefully before heading on. ^_^ * Mitsuo whistles, and resumes the trek. ^^ * Nathan presses on, his spirits much lighter now * Jalanda stops, staring at Dylan with her purple eyes. "I have to be..." If there's anything you need, just ask. There is... one thing. And that is? * Jalanda folds her arms into her robe's sleeves. "If something happens - please hold me back." * Mikari keeps on marching, behind Feray now, shaking her head at the girl with, nevertheless, a half grin. * Erellisae natters along next to Feray, looking considerably more with it now. ^^ * Mitsuo looks back at Jalanda quizzically. * Dylan frowns for a moment. "I will. But I don't like it" * Jalanda shakes her head. "I trust you with this request. Think no more upon it." * Jalanda starts walking again... == Session End! Delicious and Nutritious. :D == Session Close: Fri Jun 21 23:27:26 2002