| |
|
Part 27: Nine against the darkness
===========================================================
Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron, Jack and Cyan hear the sound of running footsteps on the stairs
from below, and suddenly a young man is there, not even breathing hard
as he slows to a halt. He spreads his hands wide, empty, and
calls out, "If you're friends of Fiona, then I'm here to help! If you're not, then I guess I'm in big trouble."
"Slow down, the enemy is coming to meet you half-way, and there is more help on the way up."
Leonardo is now above the creature as it descends, although being
behind something that is as likely to have a face on the back of its
head as the front is perhaps not so much of an advantage as might be
imagined.
And now something strange happens... the creature seems to give up all
attempts to maintain a humanoid form, degenerating into a shambling
form with tentacles errupting from it, seemingly at random, and eyes
blinking across its entire surface. A hundred mouths filled with
needle-sharp teeth are howling a dirge as it rolls erratically down the stairs, leaving a trail of steaming ichor behind it.
Aaron, James, and Kaelyn reach the bottom of the stairs and start to
make their way up. James leads, with Andrej next, and Kaelyn just
behind, but none of them show any sign of flagging yet. The
howling from above draws a few concerned glances though.
Berd ignores the strange howling from below and darts upwards through a
gap in the platform, seeking a reason for the creature's ascent of the
tower.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan's sword is out in a rainbow arc as Jonnee appears behind them,
pointed unerringly towards the hollow of his throat (though he is
standing a good distance away). At his words and bearing she
instantly snaps up the tip, removing the threat, and the Bard gives him
a sunny smile. "You are one of those we were to meet? All
and good-"
She pauses, stumbles once, and her pale face pales further.
"Spirits above," Cyan whispers, turning to stare higher with eyes of
jet obsidian.
Not at where the creature, out of sight, comes for them but higher. Towards the apex of the tower. Towards Berd.
And that howling she hears...is it somehow familiar? Only less
earth-shaking than what she once heard in the midst of a storm that
threatened to scour the flesh from her bones?
"We..." she stutters, beginning to push her way forward to stand beside
Aaron, "what we face must be destroyed! Jack, Aaron, do not seek
to capture or imprison! Kill it!" The Bard looks to her
left and right. "And this...this is not the best place to do
battle! We will fight it, but we may have to pull back, down to
where it might be surrounded!"
She looks back to Jonnee. "We cannot have many people on the
stairs, not if we have to pull back, and warriors behind will do no
good to us! If they can strike with force with us in their path,
with sorcery or other skills, well and good - otherweise ask your
friends to hold fast." A wild grin touches her lips, then.
"No doubt we will be coming down the stairs momentarily! We need
space to fight this!"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
High above, Berd works feverishly, his eyes beginning to glow like tiny suns as he looks around the top of the tower.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn works to ascend and while one hand holds her sword, the other
hold her throwing stars, She carefully looks for the sign of the enemy
and a chance to throw her ranged weapons. She is the only one of her
group armored and fully prepared for battle, her black armor with the
golden phoenix emblem encasing her form. When she realizes how narrow
the stairs, she reaches to her pack to remove a rope and her sword is
now a grappling hook and she uses it to try to get a way above the
creature herself.
"Andrej and James, get distance weapons and see if you can find a way
to swing out and behind it. Sending it flying down the stairs in a fall
would be a good thing. After all, then all the king's horses and all
the king's men won't be able to put humpty dumpty together again."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian’s face and body are like a statue; his breathing remains slow
and deliberate. The only movement from him is a single, pulsing purple
vein on his temple. Sweat rolls down his cheeks and stings his eyes.
Though Fiona can probably detect it, he gives his report, anyway. As
before, his words are spoken slowly and carefully. "The
creature has ceased struggling; it is resigned to descending towards
its fate, now. It is no longer attempting to appear human, in mind or
in body. I shall strive to keep it as docile as I can." He allows
only the faintest of smiles to curl the ends of his lips, before bowing
his head in concentration again. He assumed she would sense the
assistance he had gain, but he felt no need to provide details. If she
missed that fact, so much the better. If she knew, there was no harm,
for he spoke only the truth.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Cyan, are you okay?!" Jack calls out seeing how pale se was as she
moved by. " be careful! This is anouther malignacy of breaks. I am
helping whoever is controlling this thing move it down the stairs. It
comming down with less struggle, we may be able to hold it while you
guys kill it. I can "
"Let me know what you want to do Bard," Jack was moving slowly back
down the stairs slowly but stayingclose to Aaron and Cyan. "I might be
able to jump it outside the wall using a micro break and drop it. Then
again, it's a changer and might fly."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
As Jonnee races up the stairs, leaving the others far behind, Andrej
stops at the base and looks up into the still changing sky. Trying to
assess the situation around and above he looks for a nearby structure
that might be eligible for climbing up, since the stairs will be quite
crowded and nothing is worse than fighting in cramped spaces with the
possibility of falling off. He turns around to his two remaining
comrades, suddenly holding a heavy sabre with a hematite pommel and a
large handguard in his right hand. Listening to Kaelyn's suggestions he
nods in acceptance, then turns to James.
"She's doing it again.", he murmurs to James with a slight smile, then looks up at the continued howling.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"We cannot allow it to fly away," Cyan speaks in low tones. "If
it does, it may not return until it is full grown...we must engage,
draw it to us, and slay it." The Bard stares up, eyes still
jet. "And...do not speak your plans aloud. Use the link
Berd has created! Remember, it understands - it played at being a
Prince!"
Her head briefly turns towards the stranger, dark eyes regarding
him. "You, sir...are you adverse to speaking with the mind?
I have a friend who can allow you to join us in our planning, nothing
more. This I swear."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
With a glance at Fiona, Dorian replies, "I am all ears, as they say. However, if the link affects my concentration I must insist on being left out." He can only assume at this point, that he must trust these people.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron slowed to a complete stop as the newcomers arrived. A good
majority of his attentions were focused upon the ascending stairway,
and whatever existed beyond, but he did spare a look behind him.
He added up how many people he'd have to pay attention to.
"Great," he commented, not sounding pleased about the results of his math.
"Cyan," he began, and started backing down the stairway as the howl
reached his ears. "I agree with you. Best that we get as much room to
maneuver as possible."
He said nothing more, and only continued his cautious pace, his direction now reversed.
Cyan's comments, and her smile, brought a very similar and vicious looking grin to Aaron's own face. That was an all-too familiar look, but for once, it wasn't directed at Jack or anyone else in the group.
In Aaron's hand, Ilsefranvir began to cast a hazy blue glow.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn tosses her hook and begins to pull herself up knowing that she
can use the grappling hook line to bring down a flying foe if needed,
still it is best to get above the foe and fight on the way down. She
tracks the strangers and the odd creature and takes them into account
as possible enemies or allies and keeps note of them.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The howling increases in intensity, and something starts pounding on the stairs, causing the wood to flex and split alarmingly.
A tentacle lashes out at the higher section of Kaelyn's rope at about
the time she comes level with Jonnee and the others, but it seems to be
less of an attack and more of a general flailing about.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“Damn!” Jack says still backing up and continuing down. “I wouldn’t attack it, it might bring the whole tower down.”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James yells out, "Friend!" as soon as Aaron, Jack and Cyan come in
sight around a curve in the stairs. Not very original perhaps,
but best to avoid any misunderstanding.
He arrives more or less about the same time as Aaron makes his comment
about room to manouvre, a split second later a tentacle slashes the air
perilously close to Kaelyn, who looks horribly exposed on her rope and
grapple.
"I'm not sure I'd want to give that thing any room to manouevre."
Jack's comment causes James to reassess, "Right, that changes
things. Can somebody tell Fiona to make sure the area's clear
down there?"
He proceeds to back down the stairs, careful not to get in the way of those above him.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian continues to concentrate, gritting his teeth in frustration. Its starting to struggle again.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Nothing to see here. . .
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
[OOC: Assuming that everyone but Dorian is currently "connected" via Berd's mental link...]
Leonardo moved into position across and slightly above the creature along the staircase while at the same time he instructed Piece to change shape into an extendable mono-filament whip. Leonardo
heard Cyan's remark about using Berd's "encrypted" mental communication
system and he hoped that most of the newcomers were making use of it.
~~~ Well I keep hearing conflicting battle
tactics on how best to deal with this monster. Some don't want to
give it room and other's would prefer to fight it on open ground or at
least off these damn stairs. I don't have the expertise to decide
which is the better course of action.
However... I do have the tools needed to quickly bring this creature
"down to earth" sort of speak. I can cut the stair supports both
in front and behind this thing and let if fall where it may. If
the fall doesn't kill it, then it should at least be hurt or stunned
enough to get in some good shots while it lays prone.
However I can't guarentee what will happen to the rest of the staircase
if I so this. I've got my own contingency plan but it is possible
that this thing's fall could take out the lower stairs. Also
anyone still on the stairs would then end up behind this creature after
the fall. Still... I'm willing to give it a try if the more
martial oriented among us give it the proverbial "thumbs up".
However I suggest before put this plan in motion that everyone get
their tushes off the stairs pronto... I can wait until that happens
before I start swinging. Also if whomever has been keeping this
thing conflicted as to whether it's coming or going could perhaps keep
up the good work, the higher the fall the harder the landing.
Just a suggestion... any takers? ~~~
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
A tight nod to Aaron in agreement, then another to James as he comes up
after Jonnee. "Correct," Cyan replies through clenched teeth,
watching as another woman goes hand over hand up a rope beside them on
the stairs.
Berd, finished his work, shoots down outside the staircase with a
shrill cry, whipping in near Cyan and hovering above her. At that
instant, he sends out an offering to all of those near the creature.
Andrej, James, Jonnee, Kaelyn and Leonardo all receive a 'message',
placed at the edges of their mental defenses. The package looks,
to their minds, like a little Jack-in-the-box, closed. There's a
brilliant bumper sticker slapped on the side of each box, stating
'Mental Conference - Just Turn Crank suitable for human consumption'
If opened, a small dragon with big, googly eyes pops out, tongue waggling, then fades as the mental link comes into place..
OOC - I'll assume this was given out before Leonardo's post so he is in
the link too - it will save him repeating. From now on
I'll just put Cyan's stuff in the link right out there, and those who
have accepted can jump right in... :) Note - the link only allows
for communication - if anyone wants to try to mindprobe someone else in
the link, they have to get through Berd's 'circuit breakers', first.
IC -
'Let us not break the stair, anywhere, Leonardo - it might
destabilize the structure we stand upon. It is weak enough
already.' Oddly, there is relief in Cyan's mental tone,
strange relief given the situation, and her eyes darken again, to
obsidian. For an instant, an odd though skitters through the
'link'. ...not a Gatherer, not a Gatherer, not....
Then her communication focuses once more. 'Jack and Dorian have a plan to move it off the stairs and ensure it does not fly away - everyone, back down to the ground!'
Cyan radiates approval for Jack and Dorian's plan through the link - it
is the simplest plan, and causes the least damage (none) to what they
stand upon. 'Do it - get it below, and we can surround it.'
Fighting two sides against an enemy that can bring out eyes in both
directions isn't going to do much good. But bringing five, six
swords to bear....
Simple plans are the best - they don't get all muddled up when the enemy doesn't react exactly as you anticipate.
With a madcap grin to Aaron, then Jack, Cyan steps off the side of the
stairs as Berd begins to glow, settling down on Jack's shoulder.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leon Jack sends across Berds Link I don't care if I drop it over the edge or you do, but we need someone down stairs to greet it first.
Everyone get down the stair as fast as possibile, let us know when you
are down. Leon, you stay if you would, if we fail be ready to hit it
your way.
So that means the rest of you be ready for falling rocks if I blow
this, cause then the ball will be in Leon's court. If need be I suggest
he bring the tower down to make it work.Now go!Get down there and be
ready! This thing is going to be headed you way. Dorian and I are roing
to hold it while it falls to make certain it can't to anything tricky.
I'm going to port this beast outside the front door and let her fall.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan grins and steps over the edge, one hundred feet up, with rubble and debris below, and she drops like a stone...
... to land with a flexing of knees on the broken remains of a wooden
floor section, and step down onto the tower floor as lightly as if she
had merely skipped down the stairs.
Leonardo holds his position, thirty feet above the horror, and on the
opposite side of the stairwell. Still it doesn't move, save to
bang on the stairs with its tentacles...
Fifty feet below it, almost a complete turn of the spiral, Jack, Aaron,
James and Jonnee stand ready to block its descent, nervously watching
the quivering boards and sagging beams above them . Oddly enough,
Jonnee does not appear to be armed...
Below them, and again almost directly below their position, Andrej
climbs the stairs as fast as he can, having taken the time to check
for, and rule out alternative routes...
Kaelyn climbs past the creature, which seems distracted, though a
flailing tentacle occasionally passes a little too close for
comfort. Her ascent is not as easy as Leonardo's had been;
nevertheless, she is getting to the higher ground...
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
After getting up to the higher ground, Kaelyn grabs the grappling hook
which becomes her sword again with her above the creature. She takes it
into her one hand as a defensive and parrying weapon. Her offense is
her five narrow dart shuriken first. Hard to parry, they are thrown
from their place at her belt to try to hit vulnerable places like eyes
in rapid succession. She plans ahead for their being exhausted by
considering the places of her knives. Finally, there is the rope to
lasso the foe once her other attacks have all completed and the reason
she pooled it near her feet for use.
Being that she does not allow strangers into her mind, she is not part
of the link and so misses the mental communications. Only an idiot
opens their mind to a strange knocking in middle of battle since it
could be the enemy doing the knocking.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo takes his place and waits for Jack and Dorian to proceed with
their plan... and readies himself to put his own plan in action if need
be.
Throught the Link: ~~~ Ready when you are
Jack... or rather, ready as I'll ever be. Let me know if and when
you need me to strike. As for sticking to my position... when
have I ever refused to take the higher ground? I'll be fine right
where I am even if the stairs decide to collapse. Good Luck with
the wee beastie! ~~~
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron's stance changed as he continued back down the stairwell. He was
still very cautious, but now his purpose was to get to the bottom of
the stairs, hopefully before the stairs above fell atop them.
"Ilse?"
A light, airy breeze; more mental than physical.
"Set."
A final check of everything about, above, behind and beneath (including
Cyan... a hundred feet was nothing to sneeze at, especially when
landing on possibly uneven ground), and Aaron nodded with a clenching
of his teeth. He continued on his way down.
We're ready when you are, Jack.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej is fast on his way up as the mindlink hits him. Since curiosity
is still one of his vices he opens the jack-in-the-box and the
conversation suddenly fills his mind. He nods once absently, then turns
back and heads downward again.
Through the link:~~~I'm going down, again. Just send it plummeting.~~~
He reaches the base of the stairs shortly and heads out into the
courtyard, just in time to see Cyan straighten after her perfect
landing. A smile flashes across his face as he steps up to her.
"Greetings, fair lady. Let's hope that fiend does not have the same grace in landing."
He looks up again trying to discern if the plan has already been launched, listening to the thought-net.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Not nearly enough people were
reacting to Jacks plan, only three had called out ready and they did
not seem to be pushing it as hard as they could to make it to the
bottom. Still if he and Dorian could hold the beast for the fall,
perhaps they could hold it as the rest made it down there.
Dorian, put everything you have into holding this thing still, be
ready in case we have to try and kill it’s mind. Leon, please if this
works get down there as quick as possible and help them. With that
there was a rush of power from Jack, a burst of focused energy.
Followed by a burst of garble from Jacks mind along Berd’s link.
Ready or not here it comes!!! I hope this works!
Then Jack poured everything he could into the tendril contact with the
beast, trying to overload it’s synapses and lock it up to keep it
from moving, changing or reacting as it hopefuly plumeted to the
flagstones below.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan turns towards Andrej with an oddly cheerful expression on her
face, staring at him with eyes of jet obsidian. "Greetings to
you, sir. Pleased am I that we join arms." The Bard gives a
brief, complex salute with Kirilinde to him as a febrile smile touches her lips. A tautness vibrates
in her tone, a sense of impending explosion. "Well met on the
field of battle - hopefully, as you say, to be over when that creature
strikes the flagstones."
'Aaron, we await you and Arianne below! Berd? Are you prepared? Guard their minds!'
The fear builds within her, as it always does before battle. Fear
of failure. Fear of loss. Fear of the unknown. The
blackness leeches from Cyan's irises as her smile grows wilder.
The Bard continues to study the big man, noting his easy stance, his
structured posture, the strength of his wrists...the look in his
eyes. This one is a warrior. This one can fight.
"I would ask if you are prepared to ride the whirlwind," she says in a
bright, clear voice, "but I see you have already ridden it into the
ground, and more than once." Footsteps on the stairs - their
allies grow nearer.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
OOC: blasted post rate - kidding, sort of. Oh well. *performs a dextrous mental sidestep*
James opens the mental link. It's not that he's a particularly
trusting individual, it's just, well, if a shapeshifting monstrosity
can be that cute James is obviously not devious enough to survive in
this world anyway. And the lady had said that these people were
friends...
The jack in the box effect just about costs him his footing on the
stairs, but he recovers. He considers heading down the stairs,
but something tells him the guys up here might need his help if this
thing slips the leash. Then again, he spares a glance as the lady
casually steps out over a clean 100ft drop, if they're capable of that
maybe not.
Oops, the moment of decision is past. James braces for action.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
<Backpost>Jonnee opens the link, then whirls and goes back down
the stairs as fast as he came up, or faster, since it's downhill.
He actually overtakes Cyan, and is waiting for her at the bottom.
"Hey, Babe, I been waiting hours, what kept you?" he asks her, with a grin.
~~~ Ready as I'm gonna get, Buddy. I'd
like to order one large Shape-Changing Special, to be delivered, with
extra anchovies and pineapple. ~~~</Backpost>
(OOC: Sorry for holding things up. Had an emergency at work, been doing double shifts. X( )
He follows Cyan's lead now, the link showing him the plan in all its craziness. Looking at her, he says, "So, I guess we get to see a little slice'n'dice action then? My name's Jonnee Kay, you must be Helen of Troy?"
As he speaks, there are two faint clicks, and he is suddenly armed,
twin blades, ten inches long and bone white, the edges with that
special gleam that says they are sharp as any razor.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Yes! Dorian snaps. I know the plan. Hurry up and do it. He bends his will towards the creatures focusing on holding it in place, trying to lock the creatures brain.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
And in that instant all Hell breaks loose...
Kaelyn's darts strike, two into eyes, and three into the flesh near to
eyes. There is a howl, and all the mouths flow together, becoming
one huge snarling maw, armed with teeth as long as carving knives...
Jack is driven backwards, stumbling on the staircase, while outside Dorian is forced to his knees.
Armoured plates flow across the thing's skin, thickening, as a cluster
of legs sprout beneath its gobular body and the tentacles vanish.
Small red eyes fix on Kaelyn...
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Here is hoping that it only has a limited reserve of eyes. One order of knives coming up." She takes a couple steps up even as her hand goes to the five knives
easily reached. They are thrown at a slightly slower rate than the
shuriken, but she aims for the eyes again. Her off hand remains armed
with sword for defense and she hopes her armor is sufficient. "Feel free to join the party at any time folks. Stumpy seems to be focused on me and giving you plenty of free time." She mutters softly, Bows, I must remember never to leave home without a bow.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Damn, the pain from the attack cased a psychic backlash forcing us out! Trying to Gain his feet again Jack shouts “DAMN!!!!Leon! DO it!
Everyone Keep back from the beast, Give Leon the room he needs! Berd
The things isn’t real Keep it from shifting if you can!” Jack set to
helping Leon in his own way, jingling probability so that Leon’s plan
would work, that the stairs where the beast was would give way.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd snarls like feedback, the tearing noise cutting through the
creature's howls. He focuses his eyes on the creature, and they
begin to burn like tiny suns.
His mental voice, oddly deep and resonant echoes through the link to Leonardo.
(Strike/attack) under/beneath! I/Berd {assist/aid}!
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Through the link, Aaron felt Jack's subtle aggravation. Impatience? No. Concern. He was taking too long.
Aaron hurried back down the stairs, and eventually followed Cyan's lead
by leaping off of the stairs,though he covered a significantly shorter
drop; landing in a crouch, Ilse held extended in his right hand, he
straightened and gazed from Cyan to Andrej. He stretched his arms
forwards, his back cracking audibly.
"Ahh. Now, then."
And then he turned at Jack's shout, his eye trailing up to the point where he figured the creature was.
His eye narrowed.
Jack, what the hell is going on up there?
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan jerks with shock at the sight of Jonnee, waiting for her. How did he get down here so quickly? She fell, by the spirits! And yet...there he is.
And, of course, there is the other issue.
Babe?
But the man's insoucient grin is infectuous, and Cyan feels the fear
within check for an instant. She salutes him with her free
hand. "Helen of Troy? I fear my face has not launched a
single vessel, let along thousands of ships..." There's something
oddly compelling about his attitude, and she cannot help but give him a
quick wink. This one would be a fine friend.
Then his blades are loosed, and Cyan blinks in surprise, obsidian eyes caught by the glimmer of razored bone. Where have I heard of those...? "Jonnee Kay?"
Jonnee?
Those eyes widen, and she freezes for an instant. "You...you have a friend. Kalika? I am Cyan, of No-"
Then things go mad, above them, and the Bard's attention is hooked by
the chaos. An instant to assess, through the link, an instant to
glance to Aaron, holding steady. The old Aaron would be halfway up the stairs, now, she has time to think with admiration as her voice rings out to those gathered below.
"Hold!" she implores. "Hold here! Trust those above to
bring it down to us - for they will, and we must be prepared!
Trust them!" The fear rises, cresting over her control as a
furnace erupts in her gut, tearing through her veins like acid.
Cyan's mind calls out over the link to those waiting, fighting high up
the tower.
'Jack! Leonardo! All of you,' she sends to them, to James, to Dorian, 'we await! Throw it down, down to us!'
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
She knows Kalika, and I saw a wolf! Is she here?
He turns his cat like eyes upwards, slitted pupils narrowing against
the light from the sky, and waits for death to drop in for a visit.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo may have been casual in his apparent mood and turn of phrase
but from the moment he first suggested his plan, his readied actions
had been deadly serious. Through the Link Leonardo can sense that
something has gone awry with Jack's plan... possibly connected to the
creatures reaction to the dangling woman-warrior's attack.
Then Leonardo hears Jack's plea for him to initiate the "backup plan"
and he knows that his time has come to take a direct hand in the
proceedings. With a quick deep breath, Leonardo sends out his
warning over the Link, ~~~
Gotcha Jack! Right then... on to Plan-B and trusting to my
special brand of Luck! Cross your fingers folks and beware the
whip... Indiana Jones, eat your heart out! ~~~
From his tactically chosen vantage point, Leonardo wields Piece which is current in the form of an extendable monofilament whip.
His first strike is for the upper stairs and supports slightly above
the creature's position and once those are severed, his next strike
will be aimed to cut the lower supports and stairs slightly below the
creature's position. The plan is to literally cut the floor out
from under this beast and pray it can't react fast enough to compensate
for the sudden grip of gravity.
[OOC: Well I believe I will need to wait for Big D to see if this works or not. ;)]
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Ooc: Nothing new, just expounding on reactions now that I have time.
~~~ PAIN! ~~~ came through Berd’s link
Jack Had fallen back against the wall clutching an eye in the sudden
burst of pain. Wonder woman’s strike to it’s eye had give a psychic
backlash to Jack and Dorian, contact was lost and the beast was free.
Through the fog of psychosomatic pain jack could see through his good
eye. The Beast was now changing faster than any shape changer had the
right to, as fast as he had been able to in his full shadow form. He
doubted if poking eyes would stop it, it would probably regrow them or
manifest them as quick as they could stab them.
Fighting through the fog of pain he had shouted the warning to Leon, jingling probability to help the artist plan.
I’m working on it Aaron! It will be down in a bit if I have to drag
it off the edge myself!” Jack sent through, “Now give Leo a chance!
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian groaned throught gritted teeth, doubling over. One hand pressed against his temple as the world reeled around him. "Fools," he mutters. With his link broken, and no prepared spells to reestablish it, he could do nothing from this distance.
To Fiona he says simply, "It has gone from bad to worse." Using his crooked walking stick for support, he heads towards the
broken tower and the area where they were trying to deliver the
creature at the bottom.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Damnation..." Aaron mumbles, then glanced behind him at the assembled crew.
"If this thing is coming down here, I suggest we spread out and cover
equal positions as close to the center of the stairwell as possible."
He paused as he considered their positions, their current distance from
one another, and the distance from the entrance to the stairs. "Yes.
Surround it." A look to Cyan, "Would it be prudent for all of us to
attack at once? If this thing can lash out like an octopus, as may be
apparent, one of us may get whacked before we have a chance to strike.
That person may just fly into your blade." A raising of the eyebrow.
"Or mine, but in this case, I'll be using one blade rather than eight."
He didn't have time to sigh. He hoped that his ideas were logical
enough to be listened to, though he'd prefer to leave the strategy to
Cyan.
Jack! Do you need help up there? Be honest, damn you!
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn's knives fly at the creature's eyes, and armoured shutters slide
down over all but a few, deflecting the blades. It seems that it
learns quickly. Its mouth gapes then, impossibly wide, and a
long, prehensile tonge lashes out towards the woman...
There is a crackling sound in the air, and a thread of violet light
falls onto the tongue, through it, then through the staircase.
The tongue thrashes about on the stairs for a few moments before laying
still. Timbers creak and sag, as Leonardo snaps the whip back up
through the stairs, and then the entire section gives way, tipping the
creature into the stairwell.
It hits the mound of rubble at the bottom hard, shattering stone and
cracking its own carapace. A section of broken timber has speared
it, spilling foul black ichor across the stone.
Up above, Kaelyn and Leonardo are peering down through the dust cloud
raised by the thing's fall, trying to see the result of the
attack. From behind them comes a high pitched squeaking.
The tongue is still barely recognisable as such. It has sprouted
dozens of legs, massive pincer-like mandibles, and an armoured
exoskeleton. No eyes, though it still seems to be able to detect
where the two humans are...
There is a bubbling, sucking sound, and the broken thing flows and
reforms, hauling itself off the debris mound as it elongates and
becomes a snake-like creature with numerous heads...
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd hisses furiously, above, flashing an image through the link of what has transpired.
The creature's split makes it nearly impossible for him to hold it in
one form, if it were at all possible in the first place. But
there is more than one way to make it stop changing.
Killing it will have to suffice.
The little dragon lofts into the air, staring with burning eyes down at the creature battling Kaelyn and Leonardo.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Linked to Berd, Cyan sees what happens with the tongue. Cutting this creature to bits will not help, not at all.
Then the broken mass at the base of the stairs reforms itself, shifting
shape once again. Obviously Berd cannot hold it in one
form. It hisses, the sound lashing at her spirit. Jack is
trapped above with part of it...they are below, with no direct means of
slaying the beast....
"Find fire," she hears her voice say to The Quick One (Jonnee?), as if
from a distance. A flick of her scabbard indicates the one named
Aaron and The Heavy One. "We hold it here."
The boiling fury drags down the fear and consumes it. A savage
smile grips her visage, and a faint laugh passes from her lips.
Eyes diamond bright, Cyan steps back into the tower, blade
gleaming. Then she moves forward, spinning around the creature,
giving more room to those who might follow; the air whistles faintly as
Kirilinde parts it, lancing stabs and short cuts with the tip of the gim aimed at bleeding the creature, harming it while not severing any head
from the body. Her footwork, unpredictable and precise, keeps her
moving, keeps her from being pinned against a wall by the monstrous
being.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej is still looking upwards as ´Plan B´ ist put into motion. He
watches the section lean out, then tumble down towards the ground.
"Watch out!", he yells and tries to
shield his comrades with his body from the falling and flying debris as
the creature crashes to the ground. As the first impact subsides he
turns around and with purposeful strides meets the changing monstrosity
head on, not foolishly all-out, but measured and careful, concentrating
on any of the many heads and parrying them with the intent of beheading.
A fierce exultation fills him, as always when he fights against
impossible odds, but he curbs his foolish impulses and continues to do
as much harm as possible.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Fire. Right." Jonnee turns and dashes for the door, the blades vanishing as he goes. Should be easy enough, the place is burning down around us.
In a blur of speed he sidesteps the stranger as he enters the tower, and skids to a halt on the cobblestones of the yard. "We - ah - everything is under control!" he lies to Fiona, even though he knows that's a dumb thing to even try, "Just need something from over - here! Yes, over here."
Burning timber and and a fallen flagpole. Ideal. He pops
one of his blades and slices the flag into strips which he then ties
around some lengths of wood. He doesn't light them yet though.
Instead he tucks five of them under his arm before snatching up a
burning brand from the wreckage and heading back to join the others.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo has a good ranged weapon, so she carefully uses her sword to
cautiously trying for a strike if an opening comes but otherwise she
will keep on the defensive and force it to keep distance from her so
the other can destroy the changed tongue. The main creature is on the
ground where Fiona and her amber guard can aid the others and perhaps
stop it from fleeing and destroy it.
"This tongue is an amusing beast, wound it, but do not break off pieces so that we keep a single foe."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“Berd!” Jack called out. Freeze
it, do what ever you can to the air around it and freeze that puppy as
close to a molecular level as you can! If we can’t kill it we can force
it to shut down to survive! he sent to berd
As he spoke Jack sent his tendril winging down to the beast below, he
knew he was in for a whole lot of pain as they struck at it. Still
these two should be able to handle the tongue, he had to help the rest.
Driving contact forward through the tendril he attacked the mind and
spirit of the main body of the best, hoping to at least buy Cyan below
time. He drove his psyche forward through the tendril like a lance, not
trying to be nice or get information, instead trying to kill the things
mind. “ ZZAAQ! he shouted out as soon as the tendril mad contact trying to over power the mind of the beast quickly! Had to protect Cyan!
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Unwilling to charge madly into the frey, Dorian continues his measured
pace towards the tower, still shaking his head against the backlashed
pain through the link. He contemplated his options.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
<backpost>Jack stumbles from the pain of the wounded creature's
psychic backlash and in an instant James is there a step in front of
him in a defensive stance, blade raised to parry any physical
counterattack.
An instant later there is a flash of violet, the tearing of overstressed timber and a lot of dust as the creature tumbles, ~~To its death?~~James
briefly wonders. A glance over the edge of the stairs tells him
this was no more than wishful thinking.</backpost>
A second glance shows him the detached tongue now transformed into some sort of fighting beast. ~~Crush and stab, don't cut!~~ he directs to those below. His use of the mental link is clumsy at best.
James judges Kaelyn can deal with the transforming tongue.
Instead he considers the best way to attack the larger creature below.
~~There must be some way to use this height to advantage.~~ He turns to the wall.
~~Now if only one of these stones was loose.~~ And there
it is, a shower of loose mortar and a sizeable chunk of masonry comes
free in James's hands. He lifts it above his head, steps to the
edge of the stairs, considers the trajectory and sends the rock
hurtling towards the snake creature below.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Parrying another strike by one of the change-snake's heads, Andrej takes a step backwards to assess the situation anew.
Through the mindlink:***Can anybody get hold of some strong alcohol? That would be the best to burn that thing.***
With a flick of his wrist he repositions his weapon in his hand, turning it so a full strike hits with the flat side.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
The strength of Aaron's determination shuddered through him as he
followed Cyan's lead. Watching her, an aggressive grin manifested on
his face as the memories of times gone by emerged for the moment.
Such fury! Her control is still as awe-inspiring as ever...
And then Aaron flowed into the fray, his black duster swirling about
him as he stabbed and perforated the beast before them. Ilsefranvir was
a glowing streak, guided by a single, deft hand and his focused eye.
Occaisonally, his left arm would come up to lean against the back of
the sword just-so, adjusting its trajectory or its rate of penetration.
He kept his eye on Cyan, making sure he kept out of her way.
It went on like this. Keeping close to the beast, striking and attacking and buying time for the others to prepare.
And then the singing began.
The voice was beautiful and female. The peaceful sounding mezzo-soprano
cast such a change within the fragmenting environment, that even
Aaron's shoulders shifted, though the speed, strength and direction of
his blade did not.
A small half-smile was there for a moment before it vanished within his
determination. Arianne was fighting along with them, it seemed.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
I will burn it. No alcohol needed, Dorian thinks through the mindlink. Continue to fight the beast as normal; Keep it busy.
As he approaches the beast, he takes a deep breath, mustering his will
for what is next. If Fiona'a fear of this thing was any indiciation of
its power, drastic measures were in order. He kept all this internal,
his face impartial and hidden under his hood.
Verbally, he shouts, "We must try to hold it still, minimize the destruction."
He just had to get close enough to grab it...
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
With battle joined, the stairwell fills with the sounds of conflict.
Cyan steps forward, Kirilinde flickering with rainbow
light as the blade bites deep in search of vital organs, while the
bard's speed and agility keep any of the gaping mouths from fastening
onto her.
With similar ease, Kaelyn holds the thing that was once a tongue at
bay, while Leonardo shifts his tactic to one less likely to increase
their troubles.
Andrej and Aaron find themselves fighting side by side. The
bigger man slashing with his heavy sabre at first, until he sees a new
head growing out of the cut he just put across the thing's body.
He switches to using the flat of the blade, since that still lets him
swing it and use its weight to full advantage.
A pair of heads dart towards him, one he manages to block, but the
other strikes past his guard, striking him squarely in the middle of
the chest. The fang-lined mouth does not draw blood, but the
impact knocks him back a pace or two.
Aaron moves with the precision of a dancer, his long blade seeming to
flex and curve almost as much as the thing's necks do. Sliding in
to impale the creature, swinging across and up to block an attack,
stretching out to balance the man as he drives a heavy boot into a
mouth.
There is a whistling, rushing noise from above, and a shouted Word.
The creature tries to move aside, but its own body betrays it, refusing
to respond, and a seventy pound block of granite suddenly slams into
its back, snapping bones and tearing away muscle. It howls in
agony, but this only lasts a moment though, as the flesh and bone start
to flow back across and around the stone.
Angered, it looks for a target, and Dorian calmly steps within
reach. A dozen snake-like heads sweep towards him, and a new
mouth opens in the chest, easily big enough to swallow the man.
The heads never make contact.
There is a flare of orange light, and a wave of heat, and the thing
hurls itself backwards, bringing down another section of
staircase. Flames are licking across its body, which twists and
shifts in an attempt to find a new form.
Finally it lays still, burning, and even the mewling cries of pain stop. The stench of its charring flesh is unbelievable.
High above, the last remaining part fights on with renewed ferocity...
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo did not have much time to admire his handiwork despite
accomplishing what he had set out to do. Instead he now found
himself faced with a diminutive "chip off the old block'... and a
nasty, ill-tempered one at that!
Leonardo had no wish to further multiply his troubles or his foes... he
had more than enough of both already. So he quickly retracted the
monofilament whip until it was out of reach of the Tongue. He
then commanded Piece to shift form once more. This time its shape was that of a pincer designed to clamp down and restain the tongue.
Leonardo's plan was to "capture" the Tongue and then utilize Piece's
unique nature to regulate itself in order to try out first high heat,
then freezing cold and finally high powered electrical current until
some form of energy had a lasting effect on the Tongue.
With another deep breath and a quick Escherian gesture for Luck, Leonardo extended Piece yet again with the objective of capturing and holding the Tongue
between the pincers and then forming a small "cage" around the Tongue
in order to hold it captive before beginning the "energy
experimentation".
One fewer Tongue wagging... coming right up! It is time for a true "Tongue Lashing"!
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Perhaps too easy? Dorian thinks as he grabs a handful of his
black cloak and covers his nose and mouth against the stench. His eyes
narrow in concentration as he scans for signs of life deep within the
charred corpse. He had gambled, and it had paid off. It could have been
a disaster, and he knew it. He had offered himself as an easy target,
and the creature's anger blinded it to the ease of the target. Dorian
considered it a lesson, a warning, to not be so easily tempted, himself.
Once satisfied that the being is indeed dead, he turns his back on it and heads back to Fiona.
"The matter is dealt with. It bit off more than it could chew," he says with a wry smile, remembering two-hundred pounds of molten lava bursting into the gaping maw.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd observes Leonardo's efforts to capture the creature and bleeks once with faint approval. As the creature dodges and attempts
(futilely) to get around Kaelyn's blade, the little drake begins some
work of his own.
Either Leonardo or himself will deal with it, for good. One or the other, it's all the same to him.
Breathing out, the little drake exhales a cloud that floats down to
engulf the misshapen being. Cocking his head, Berd watches as the
cloud unerringly settles around it...
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Piece reaches to enfold the creature, wrapping it in a fine mesh
which starts to glow a dull red, getting brighter as it gets
hotter. The temperature increase brings a screaming from within
the cage, and a violent thrashing. Both stop at about the same
time the wood of the staircase starts to blacken in the vicinity of the
enclosure.
Leonardo holds on to the horror until the first flames spring from the
wood, and only then does he retract the weapon and deposit the charred
remains amid the flames.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
With a happy little chime, Berd draws in a breath, pulling back the
cloud from where it was about to settle upon the creature, and belches,
once. Ringingly. He gives the group on the stairs a quick,
pleased look, then shoots back up the stairs to the top to claim his
prize.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Normally the Bard would be stunned by the display of thaumaturgical
power. Normally. Now, she only watches dispassionately as
the creature dissolves in on itself, burning furiously at the command
of the stranger.
Cyan's diamond eyes catch the dusty rays of sunlight slipping in
through the holes in the walls and sparkling with rainbow colours as
she slowly turns. Everything is cold, hard-edged, and sharp in
her vision, coming in clearly as the Bard assesses threats and danger
like a machine. The smile still twists her features as she
crouches, listening; then Cyan begins to move towards the stairs, only
to stop at the sound of the other creature's deathcry and a silent call
from Berd.
Eyes still crystal clear, she surveys the area, cocks her head to the
side, listening to the chaos in the distance, hunting, searching for
another threat. There is a terrible purpose in her stance, a
terrible focus to those eyes as they pass over the others in the
room. ...Power Wielder...leaving, no threat...the Big One, ally...the Quick One, gone...Aaron and Ilsefravnir, allies....
Kirilinde's tip holds rock-steady as she steps back out the door, now searching the courtyard.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
The smell of burning flesh, the crackling sound of charring timber, the
pounding of his adrenaline-charged blood in his ears, Andrej survey's
the battlefield, outwardly calm, his eyes dark. Through a gaping hole
in his furcoat his scarred chest is visible, but no blood. He turns his
gaze towards Dorian's back.
"Good show, priyatiel, thank you."
With a twist of his wrist he flicks any residue from his blade, then
steps up to Aaron and claps his hand on his comrade's shoulder, his
sabre having made a vanishing act.
"Good fight. I am honored to make your acquaintance. I am Andrej."
He bows to Cyan, respectfully, then turns back to the 'corpse'.
"Should we remove it from the premise or just pull a vaishing act?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“Got it Berd!” Jack called out “Head’s up Ladies and gents! The
Berd says we should vacate post haste, these stairs are growing
critically dangerous!”
He looked over at James who had show
no special tricks for getting up, so Jack assumed he had
nothing special to help him down. “Let’s take the express
elevator from hell.” He flashed James what he hoped was a reassuring
smile. Using the tendril lens Jack mapped the breaks and slapped a
friendly hand on James’s shoulder, “Trust me, I’ll get you safe and
sound to the bottom Friend.” The friendly slap became a firm grip.
Jack was uncertain why we helped the man, two
would be much more draining than one. He couldn’t just leave the man to
find his own way down. It wasn’t Jack’s style, beside he took a quick
liking to the man. He had stayed and held vigil and guard when there
were so many other glorious things to do. The stone toss was a smart
use of simple things around him. Use what you got , and keep it simple. . . Jack thought to himself. Words Jack liked to lived by when he could.
With an unseen burst of psychic energy Jack and James were gone.
They appear a flight down, disappearing in an instant. . .
The appear for a second, the stair way collapsing beneath them, but
they are gone again before it falls more then a couple of inches.
Back again and gone in the blink of an eye.
They came out again from the shadows in the ground
floor, the rain of rubble coming down on the other side of the tower.
Jack is pale from the strain of taking two. Stumbling he releases
James and falls forward, dropped to his knees his chest heaving from
the effort "Cyan," he called out in a weak voice "Are you okay? What's going on?" there was a strong note of worry in his voice. He felt like giving up
the ghost then, but there was more to do. Always more to do, despite
having done so much already, today, yesterday, last week. . .So much to
do.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
With the Tongue fried, Leonardo retracted Piece and gave a
quick salute to Kaelyn with his guantleted left hand. Leonardo
then identified a solid and stead position on the nearby wall and used
it to anchor one end of Piece. He then used Piece to aid him in quickly rappelling down to the ground. Once he was firmly on the ground, Leonardo restracted Piece once more and had it form a bracer around his left forearm over which he slid the sleeve of his duster.
He looked over at the ashes of the shadowbeast with a grim smile and a shrug saying in a lighthearted tone, "Well
that wasn't such a chore now was it? Of course... that's assuming
this thing isn't "The Mother of All Regenerators". After all...
the Phoenix is supposed to be able to return from its ashes, then again
the phoenix isn't supposed to be pyrophobic either.
So... we've enjoyed the "stairway to heaven", what's next on the
tour? By the way... does anyone know why Prettyboy there was so
darn anxious to get to the top of this particular structure?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn loops her rope over the nearest support and holds out her hand, her sword once again a ring to Leonardo, "Might I offer you lift down to the ground." Assuming that Leonardo accepts, she will kick off and swing down on her
rope to the ground, her arm about Leonardo and holding him to her.
Ropes can be replaced as easily as Shireken and daggers so she will
have no need to untie this one.
"It was a pleasure to fight with you and I wish that I had a weapon
that could char my enemies. I must settle for battering them or
slicing."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Outside the tower, Jonnee stands near Fiona, the guard, and
Dorian. All are looking at Cyan as she steps out. Fiona's
gaze sweeps over the Bard, and she spits out one word, "Different!"
The guard steps forward, his blade sweeping up to a ready position, and in a commanding tone, he orders, "Stop!"
He stands, turned sideways, left hand outstretched towards her, the blade held in the right, horizontal behind his head.
"Who are you?" Fiona asks.
Within the tower there is a strange sound from above, and a dark shape
falls in slow motion on dozens of small wings which beat in a circle
around it. Man-sized, but not man-shaped, it lands as gently as a
falling feather upon four thick legs, and the wings fold around it like
a strange robe.
Eight crimson eyes stare out of a misshapen face, and Berd sits on its
shoulder, wearing an expression which seems to combine smugness and
worry.
The creature's breath whistles through a pair of openings in its
neck. Its arms, four of them, human-looking, but with an extra
joint apiece, are folded around a chunk of crystal nearly two feet
across. Inside the crystal is a sphere, about a foot in diameter
and disturbingly organic in appearance.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej speaks to the Bard, but oddly enough she does not respond, face
still blank save for that small, almost cheerful smile, eyes still
clear as diamonds. Almost as though she is barely aware he spoke.
Then she is outside, and Fiona is there with the others.
Cyan stares at the 'guard' for a long moment, seeing only the blade,
not the woman behind him. She shifts where she stands,
fractionally, the smile on her face widening, nothing more...and the
edge of that blade seems to quiver, ever so fractionally. Another
slight shift, and almost before she moves there is a subtle, almost
unnoticable change in the 'guard's' posture.
Diamond eyes sparkle in the light, catching rainbows from the
sun. The smile on her face shows teeth. A heartbeat more....
Then Berd erupts into her mind, beating at the fury. Jack's
voice, dimly heard, is a hook that draws on her. Crystal eyes see
the woman behind the 'guard' - it is the One Who Sent Them. The
'guard', the Swordmaster, he protects her. The Quick One stands
with them, and the one who slew the beast...
...a flash of memory, the floor moving beneath her feet, a man
before her (his voice in her ears, now), her blade in hand, ready to
draw should he take one step closer...
Vision blurs and Cyan stumbles, taking a step backward, Kirilindë suddenly loose in her hand. She blinks at Fiona and her guardian,
dull jade eyes confused, and sinks to one knee, free hand coming up to
grip her own hair. A grimace ripples across her face, nausea
tearing at the Bard's stomach with jagged claws, pulse pounding in her
ears.
"Jack?" she manages to croak out. I must have been...not long, this time I think. "Berd?" Kirilindë's tip rattles against the edge of the scabbard before slipping in, the blade sliding safely away with a thunk against the wood. She glances at the faces; with effort, Cyan
manages to focus. The big man, behind her...did he say something
to her, shortly before? Something about doing well? She nods to the bald, bearded man, smiling weakly. "You...yes, and my thanks to you." Aaron...when did he - oh, yes. Before everything, he came. Down below. The man with Fiona. Jonnee. Kalika's friend. Yes. Who was the dark-robed one beside them, though?
What happened to the creature? Where was Jack?
"Princess," she says, still hunting for Jack with her eyes, "my
apologies." Slowly, head pounding, Cyan rises, sheathed sword in
her left hand.
Berd, still sitting on the alien creature's shoulder, puffs out a sigh
of relief. The creature moves to the side, clutching its precious
cargo.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James reaches for Jack as he falls, exhausted by the effort of
transporting them safely out of the tower. He is a fraction too
slow and so he kneels on one knee beside Jack and puts a hand on his
shoulder.
James chokes back his initial retort, You didn't need to do that!,
maybe it slips through the mental link, maybe not. James clears
his mind, concentrates instead on the cost just paid on his behalf and
says with genuine gratitude, "Thank you. That was...interesting.
Carefully he mentally pushes the dragon-in-the-box back into the box,
exiting the mental link (OOC: assuming Berd is still maintaining it).
"Will you be okay?"
It would be easy enough for James to pick Jack up and carry him across
to Fiona, but he respects the man's dignity enough to let him find his
feet in his own time, if he can.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Thank's I'll be fine." Jack said softly as he arose
from where he had fallen to his knees, as a tired old man would have.
He used his staff as support and moved forward, only to be surprised a
strange beastie dropping down. Though he tensed for a moment, Jacks arm
shot out in front of James. "He's with us Friend. I'm Jack of shadows
by the way, I'll catch your name in a bit, but right now I have to go
check on my partner in crime." He flashed Jacmes a last smile and
followed Berd and his new friends out.
The tap of Jack's cane preceeded him out of the tower door, once
he was out of the door he scanned the ares until he found the copper
haired Bard. And went strait to her moving a little more quickly now,
but stumbeling and shaking a bit. Mutiple jumps with two people
definitly took a major toll on his system. He had not felt this ragged
out sinceshape changing. Comming up to Cyan he pulled the last remnance
of a bottle of brandy from his pack, hardly more then a swallow was
left. His eyes serching her over for reasurance that she was well. He
knew she was one of the best fighters he had ever seen, then again so
was Kalika and that had not saved her from being blinded.
He oulled the cork with his teeth and handed Cyan
the bottle, "Here drink this, it will help." He commanded sliding his
staff into it's loop on the pack. Reaching out he tentivly touched her
shoulder, his other hand digging the water
bottle from his pack.
"You still own me a dance Cyan." Jack said softly "That's somthing I'd
come back from the frozen wastes of hell for, or go to them for if need
be."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan's face brightens at the sight of Jack, then her eyes widen when
she takes in what condition the man is in. Hurrying, she meets
him halfway, throwing an arm under his to keep him on his feet.
She's suffering from adrenal shock and the aftermath of the baresark
fury, but he's obviously in much worse shape.
Taking the bottle from Jack, she performs a juggling trick, dropping Kirilindë to fall atop her foot, lengthwise, popping the bottle into the air,
catching the cork as Jack spits it out, and then snagging the bottle in
the same hand holding the cork. Ledgermain and juggling, part of
her training of years past. It's close, though - her arm
trembles, and the sheathed sword lying across her foot wavers.
"You," Cyan states, eyes flashing amethyst, "are in more need of this
than I..." Throwing her other arm (bottle carefully cradled)
around him as well, she gives the big man a brief, fierce hug before
releasing him and turning back to the Princess and those gathered about
her.
Behind them, Berd, still atop the monstrous creature, peers out into the courtyard and utters an interrogative chirp. Turning his head, he stares at Aaron for a long moment, then at the blade Aaron still holds.
Keeping one arm around Jack, supporting him, Cyan sinks to the ground,
crosslegged, pulling the man down with her to sit as well. She
takes a quick sip of what's left of the brandy, passing the remainder
back to Jack, then glances around curiously. "We seem to have
won," the Bard notes, somewhat uncertainly. "Well met again,
sirs," she continues to Andrej and Jonnee, twisting her head to extend
the same greeting to James. "Aaron, you are well?" For an
instant her eyes fix on the damage to the front of Andrej's tunic, but
there is no wound, no blood.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"We sure did win, thanks to DOrian and Leon." Jack answered.
After the hug he waved off the bottle, "Drink it please swe- Cyan, I'm
just tired. Besides a greeting like that is the ambrosia," he whispered
something
Jack frowned at the bard as she helpped him down, but didn't have the
will to resist. Still he had the will to complain. "No Cyan, you all
always wind up taking care of me. It is my turn to take care of you."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian turns, his black cloak swirling in the wind behind him. He surveys the others. "Which one of you is... Jack of Shadows? I am Dorian."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn typed:"It was a pleasure to fight with you and I wish
that I had a weapon that could char my enemies. I must settle for
battering them or slicing."
Leonardo smiled slightly at the stranger and made a small polite bow towards her. Leonardo replied in a polite tone, "The
pleasure was all mine, miss. I suppose now would be an
appropriate time to conduct a more formal introduction. I am
Leonardo Henri Cezanne of Escher: artist, traveller, observer... and
now apparently a warrior of some sort or other. Might I have the
honor of knowing your name?"
Leonardo looks down at Piece briefly before returning his gaze towards the woman and smiles again as he adds in a polite tone, "Ahh.. yes... Piece de Resistance,
a most useful tool and a true work of art, one that I would loathe to
part with. But it is more than just a mere weapon, it is an
expression of the variety and diversity of the Shadows one walk
through... a character study of a true "world travelller".
However it seems to me that your own weapon is more than sufficient
when wielded in your very capable hands."
So now... who is this I wonder... and what exactly are her
loyalties? For that matter, who are the rest of these individuals
who showed up in the provebial "nick of time"? Are they friends
of Jack and Cyan... it seems they have not met before, then perhaps
they have some connection to that Amber Princess who decided to drop
into town? Do they intend to carry on the fight with The Enemy...
or was this a one time event?
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Fiona (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Fiona relaxes as Cyan's mind slides back into the form that she recognises, without the berserker overlaying all, "Stand down, it is her."
The guard seems a little more wary, but steps back with an almost imperceptible nod to the bard.
As the others return from the tower, including some strange faces,
though those she knows seem prepared to vouch for them, and a bizarre
creature ridden by the small drake, Fiona listens to their conversation.
It seems that the creature is defeated.
Finally she turns to Kaelyn, "Report. Is the chimaeric destroyed?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jacks head swings to face Dorian from where Cyan has
guided him down. Jack's own cloak is a dark charcoal, though the hood
is pulled back and the cloak open reveal a strange mixture of fine
clothes and exotic though simple armor.
A smile spread across Jacks tired face,he nodded to the
dark mage. "I am Jack of Shadows,Dorian." Jack sat up a bit more and
streached out a hand to the other man, offering a handshake in
friendship.
Though he does note with interest that Fion asked Kaelyn for a report,
both red heads a strong family traight he thought. He examined them
closer looking for any thing else that would lead him to belive they
were family. . .close family.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan's neck is going to be sore, obviously, from all the craning she is
doing, seated on the ground trying to keep track of the various people
and discussions. "Indeed? This Dorian is the one who
assisted you? He..." She frowns, then. ...burning light, the creature hurtling backwards...
"He was the one who destroyed it, I think." A seated bow to the
cloaked man. "Likely we owe you our lives, Sir Dorian.
Blades were of little use against such a being."
She notes the final two people, Leonardo and this woman to whom Fiona
directs her questions, coming out of the ruined tower. Her lips
quirk in a genuine smile. "Leonardo. Fine work, I must say;
Berd informs me that you dealt with the...'second' beast."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian accepts Jack's hand and shakes it. "Thank you for the assistance battling its mind. I feel we bought some precious time for the others to get into position."
Turning to Cyan, he replies, "Indeed, I delivered the
finishing blow, though I do not feel I can take sole credit for its
death. Others helped maneuver it into position and occupy it for me, as
well as deliver some minor wounds, before I could effect my spell; a
simple trick, really. I merely offered myself as a tempting morsel,
hoping it would offer an open mouth for the target of my lava spell.
Its anger blinded it to my ruse."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"No Cyan," Jack said not wanting to steal the other mans
wind in any way, dorian had been to great of help though all of this.
"He did'nt asist me, he was doing quite well already when we showed up
on the scene and I asisted him. We seem to owe him twice over. I doubt
we would have ever caught the beast, just chasing after it as we were
if not for him stopping it. And now I find that you laid the beast at
the bottom of the tower low as well. I am in your debt Dorin. Thank
you, I'll be happy to work with you any day. If ever anything I can do
for you, just ask and I'll do my best within reason." More than you
may know, for helping her from danger Jack thought to himself.
Leonardo also once again also proved himself useful in a pinch,
working togehter well in a pinch, if he were just not such a pain in
the ass the rest of the time. Could the artist ever work that
well with people out of dangerous situations? It didn't realy matter by
working together so well, he has earned a reprive from the little talk
Jack was planning to have with the man, at least for the moment. . .
For the moment.
Jack settled back against Cyan, relaxing back against her.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn smiles to Leonardo and speaks softly, "I
am Kaelyn, a mercenary and jeweler currently in the service of the
lovely lady over there. As long as my payment is fulfilled, she has my
loyalty and in this case it is access to knowledge since I am well off
for money." She seems to be looking towards Fiona, "and yes, my
'Tool' fulfills my needs for an all purpose item. I think it is just an
personalized type of what one place I visited called a swiss army
knife. It suits me as it gives me the tools from which to use my own
skills."
She looks towards Fiona who interrupts her getting acquainted with the handsome artist. "The creature is destroyed. At least the piece that was visiting me was destroyed."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I will remember, Jack of Shadows," Dorian says evenly. "I am
not sure what is happening here, I merely walked into this scene and
used my best judegement on how to act. Perhaps you could fill me in a
little; is there more to be done, here?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
With his arms crossed over his chest, Andrej stands slightly aside as
the introductions and good wishes are passed from one to the other.
"We might want to transport our - party
somewhere less - conspicious. Except for a few, none of us is here on
official business and we might get on the wrong side of the local
guardsmen. We de facto managed to - decapitate the state."
He walks over to where Jack and Cyan are resting and squats next to them, talking quietly.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo returned Kaelyn's smile and responded in a polite tone, "It
is a pleasure to make your acquaitance Ms. Kaelyn and a relief to know
that the burder of battle is born by those better trained in the arts
of war than I."
As Kaelyn finishes her report, Leonardo asks in a soft, quiet tone, "Regarding
that fine lady who now holds your loyalty by the fruit of her purse...
would she perhaps be the famed Princess Fiona of Amber whom I have
lately come to understand is currently visiting this Shadow... though I
suppose if she is, I needn't concern myself with maintaining low tones
for the purposes of discretion."
Cyan typed:She notes the final two people, Leonardo and this
woman whom Fiona names Kaelyn, coming out of the ruined tower.
Her lips quirk in a genuine smile. "Leonardo. Fine work, I
must say; Berd informs me that you dealt with the...'second' beast."
Leonardo turned towards Cyan and Jack and made a small polite bow as he responded in a cordial tone, "As
always, it was a pleasure to be of useful service in pursuit of a good
cause against a common foe. However I cannot fully accept your
praise with regards to the Tongue... for I was merely cleaning up a
mess I had created when I "brought down the house" through my earlier
actions. Had my aim been more true, there should not have been a
second threat to begin with... though perhaps it did serve as warning
not to commence hacking the shadowbeast to pieces. Still... it
was Master Dorian there who is the real "hero of the hour"... though
his modesty seems to prohibit him from acknowledging the fact."
Leonardo nods to Dorian and offers a polite salute to the sorceror.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian returns Leonardo's bow. "It
seems there is acknowledgement enough, that any on my part would merely
be boasting. As it was, it was hardly a taxing test of my powers.
Others played their small parts in the battle, had it not been for them
my task might have been more difficult." He smiles dryly.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Not a problem," Jack says giving Dorian a nod "I'll fill you in on the
basics at least,once we see what Princess Fiona has to say."
"Other then that Berd," Jack nodded at the small Drake "Seems to think
it's safe for the moment, that is prone to change. In the mean time I
think I'm going to have a look around myself just to be certain."
"Thank you kind Sir, I'm Jack." Letting go of Dorian's hand Jack looked
up at the big guy with a nod and smile before speaking softly for a
moment.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee dumps all the makeshift torches onto the cobbles, "Guess we won't be needing them after all."
He looks to Fiona, who had named the thing a chimaeric, "Uh,
you seem to know what that thing is, or was. So, what was
it? Apart from real tough, I mean. I reckon even your
brother, Benny, would have struggled with it. No offence, but I
heard he's getting real old and slow these days."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
She responds quietly to leonardo "She
would be and from what I hear, appearing to be conspiring makes
amberites dangerous. Yes, my current employer is the Amber Royal Guard
and I was here to investigate the actions by an imposter pretending to
be Bleys. The one that I believe killed the royal family to impersonate
a family member to become king for reasons unknown.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej nods in reply to something Jack said to him, then smiles wrily.
"Sorry, priyatiel. I am rude to you and
your - friend. I am Andrej. Just a wanderer through shadow on a
mission. And this time it coincided with yours. I am glad. Now let time
and care rebuild your strength. If you need a hand, I am here."
He turns again and looks at Fiona. As it seems his remarks have gone
unheard he quietly settles for a watch of the surroundings in case
anybody unwanted shows up.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan listens carefully to both Dorian and Jack's account of the
spiritual battle, and turns her head toward Leonardo to catch his own
explanation. Cocking an eyebrow, she looks back towards Dorian,
saluting him with one hand. "Well said, Leonardo, but I suspect
you did more than that."
"Still, I will then herald the hero of the hour, Sir Dorian!" Her
wide grin leaves no doubt that she is truly open in this compliment -
no sarcasm or irony is intended, only genuine pleasure (albiet weary
pleasure). "You have our gratitude for your timing, and for the
sorcery that destroyed the beast."
Reaching up a hand towards Andrej, Cyan grins, her emerald eyes
sparkling in the sunlight. "Cyan, of No Place In
Particular. It is a pleasure to meet you, Andrej." Jonnee's
comment catches her attention, and she grows more serious, tapping Jack
on the arm. "That is Jonnee, Jack. Kalika's friend."
Pain twists her face for an instant before she turns her attention back
to Andrej.
"Your words have merit - perhaps we might adjourn to someplace
less...chaotic and uncertain?" Cyan says, raising her voice slightly.
Berd snickers quietly from atop his odd 'friend', and scuttles down to settle atop the crystal orb.
OOC - Off to class...back in a few hours.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
They were outside, now. The battle over and won. He had been remote,
silent, the torrent of adrenaline hit him hard as he slowly let his
control wane. At the sight of the people outside the tower, Aaron
sheathed Ilsefranvir, though not without glancing in the direction of
Berd first.
Then his eyes found Cyan, found Jack, and he let out a satisfied sight.
Safe.
To Andrej, he nodded.
"I am Aaron." he answered him, and swallowed the 'of Amber' that was
reflexively going to follow. The woman and man who stood before them
were familiar somehow... if the woman was indeed Fiona, then Aaron
would be damned before he'd state his home address.
"Thanks for your assistance back there." he said to Andrej, "But if you'll excuse me, I need to tend to my friends."
Aaron moved to Cyan and Jack, crouching down beside the Bard and
casting a measuring, yet concerned look her way. "You're alright, I
hope?"
Then his eye moved up, finding Jack. "And you, Jack? You certainly took your time, back there."
His eye narrowed, momentarilly.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Something grey and man-sized, but low to the ground, streaks out of the
tower, rising at the last instant to strike Jonnee in the ribs.
The man finds himself flat on his back, staring into the yellow eyes of
a large wolf. The animal curls its lips, and a snarl rumbles up
from deep in its chest...
Then Hunter nips playfully at Jonnee's nose and flops down across him, squirming about and licking at his face.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee is flat out before he can react, and for a moment of panic he
thinks he's about to die. Then he recognises Hunter's face
looking down at him, and he laughs as the big wolf starts licking at
him and rolling all over him.
"Hey, Hunter, my big ol' puppy! How'ya doin'
fella! Didju miss your Unca Jonnee den? Didju den?
Unca Jonne missed his ol' puppy Hunter too, yes he did.
Hedidhedidhedid!"
Finally he pushes the big wolf to one side and climbs to his feet,
brushing hairs from himself. He looks round at everybody, "What? Me and Hunter go back a ways."
Tangling the fingers of his left hand in the fur at the back of Hunter's neck, he asks, "Where's Kalika hiding?"
Then louder, "Hey, Kalika! It's Jonnee! Come and say hi!"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn was focused on Fiona when the grey blur appeared and attacked
but her tool was suddenly stroked into a sword again and she was
leaping for the wolf but she pauses when the wolf doesn't go for the
throat and instead licks, pulling her blade up as it was getting close
to the fur. Still she is prepared to deal with it if it suddenly shifts
to attack the throat, her blade resting in position.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian nodded to Jack as his hand dropped, his eyes lingering for a
second longer. Finally, he turns to Fiona, hoping for an answer to his
question, whether there was more to do for Amber's safety.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I am doing well, Aaron," Cyan replies, appraising the man with her
amber eyes. Slowly she nods, glancing back towards Berd
once. "As for Jack, Berd informs me that there was
some...confusion up top." One finger points up. Then her
hand settles into her lap, and she stares at the other man for a long
moment. "It would seem," the Bard admits, "that we have some
catching up to do. Perhaps-"
Then Hunter is leaping from the tower onto Jonnee - a greeting of old
friends. Cyan sees the woman move, her sword appearing, and holds
up one hand, smiling at the wrestling pair. "There is no danger,
here," she calls to the woman. "These two are old friends."
But then Jonnee calls out for the third 'old friend', and the smile
fades from Cyan's face. "Jonnee," she says, pitching her voice to
carry, "we have news of Kalika." Giving Jack a quick glance, Cyan
slowly stands, her center returned, and rests a hand on Jack's shoulder.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Even as Kaelyn’s blade cleared the and honed
in on the wolf , Jack’s hand danced. Sure it probably would have been
to late, then again perhaps not. In the end it was another price paid
as tit taxed his endurance even more. With a burst of psychic
power the shape changing weapon was gone from Kaelys hand and in Jack’s.
Also gone was Jack’s smile as he laboriously stood
from resting with Cyan. “That wolf Hunter is one of my closest friends,
do not draw down on my friends. I’ve been known to break peoples toys
when they don’t play nice with them.” Jack said evenly letting her
sword clatter to the cobbles as he finished speaking.
Then a sadness touched his face, “Andrej the offer of help is never an
intrusion. Aaron, we will talk in a bit, you can beat me for
misbehaving then. Will talk about a lot in a bit old friend, good times
and bad.” Jack looked to Cyan. . . “I will tell him, but you can tell
the tale. I owe that much to her. . .” Jack’s face quavered “I’m
make the announcement , you tell him and I’ll fill in anything you miss”
With that Jack stepped forward it probably would not have hit hi so
hard, but he was so tired. Aaron was right, he had been using his
powers non stop now since the arrived. He had walked and fought
on this worlds pattern. So tired and emotions came so strong when you
were this drained, especially if you were a Luftmensch that was a
little crazy anyway. Jacui yet not. . .
“Jonnee I have heard so much about
you, you see I was Kalika’s bonded.” Jack looks down to hide his eyes.
“Part of a triad with her and Hunter. Unfortunately the triad is broken
and Kalika is dead.” Jack glanced at Hunter, the wolf had befriended
Leon, and greeted Jonnee exuberantly. . . How Kali’s Nai must hate Jack now. “Cyan will tell you the tale, I do not think
I am able right now.” Jack fell back to Cyan’s side, seeking comfort,
seeking rest. He was quickly becoming exhausted on every level.
He envied Jonnee, Jack was a clown at heart like the odd man, he
recognized it in the other man. However Jack had lost his
smile and had a frown forced in him by his trials in the war.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
As soon as Jack teleports her sword, Kaelyn springs out the dagger that
she could not use in the earlier battle since it was sheathed on the
arm with her sword and it flies towards JAck's hand with unerring
accuracy even as she leaps and rolls to catch up her sword as it would
drop from Jack's hand.
If she catches her sword, she will continue to roll and use the movement to concentrate to repel any more such stunts.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Still crouched beside Jack and Cyan, Andrej notices the way the wolf
´attacks´ the Jonnee, realizing quickly the playfulness of the swipes.
He is surprised about Kaelyn´s reaction, and not fast enough to
interfere. As Jack defuses the situation he grins at the simplicity of
the solution. Just take away the toy. Though obviously the action has
greatly weakened the young man. Concerned he turns to Jack and catches
the glint of the flying dagger out of the corner of his eye. Not sure
if Jack is able to deflect the attack in his weakened state, Andrej
lunges into the dagger´s path.
"No!"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James first reaction at the sight of another strange creature with a
miniature dragon its shoulder is to draw, but his instinct is diverted
by Jack's intervention and the sword remains in its scabbard.
"Good enough for me."
James watches discreetly, concerned that Jack might fall as he makes
his way across to the others but he looks away as Cyan greets him, not
wanting to pry on their moment together.
James remains a few steps away as the others talk and introduce
themselves. He is particularly interested in the various accounts
of the short battle. He can't help but feel impressed by
the power exhibited by both "I love the smell of napalm in the morning"
Dorian and Jack but that's not the same thing as being comfortable with
it.
He smiles as Andrej introduces himself to Jack and Cyan and is also
pleased to see Kaelyn and Leonardo getting to know one another.
James is startled by the blur of grey from the tower, but only for an instant. He fondly remembers a dog he knew...
Kaelyn's reaction is understandable in one who wasn't familiar with
such things, Jack's action in disarming her seems a little more
emphatic than really necessary but Kaelyn's reaction in turn is truly
alarming.
Andrej dives sideways, all James can think to do is step towards Kaelyn
palms raised outwards as a sign of peace, careful to stop outside her
sword reach.
"Kaelyn! Woah! You're not being attacked!"
OOC: Sigh! One post per 24 hours just isn't cutting it.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
There's a slight frown on Cyan's face as she notes Jack's 'thievery' of
the sword. "Jack-" the Bard begins, but that's all she has a
chance to say.
-fast movement in the corner of her eye-
Full stop.
To Cyan, everything seems to freeze as she garners a quick 'read' of what transpires.
Andrej is closer to Kaelyn, and already stepping in the way - likely as
not, the woman will be slowed by having to adjust her roll to go around
him. Judging her speed, and the surety of her movements, Cyan has
no doubt she will.
As for the knife...Andrej may get in its way, he may not. Jack is
dropping the sword, regardless of whether the knife lands. If someone whom she seems to trust holds it-
The quiet, well-dressed man is stepping towards Kaelyn as well, his
hands open in a conciliatory gesture. Another thing to slow her
down, and hopefully she will listen to him.
Bloodshed is not desired. Not at all.
Begin.
The bottle of brandy falls to the ground, and Cyan's gloved hand snaps
out as her foot (hopefully) hooks the dropped sword from the air by the
hilt, tossing it towards Leonardo on the opposite side to Andrej of the
rolling Kaelyn (should she manage to catch the weapon). Her own
blade she yet holds by the scabbard, out of reach of anyone who might
wish to take it.
"Stop, please!" she cries out, hoping for sanity rather than escalation.
If she's REALLY lucky, the red-haired woman rolling towards them might grab the bottle.
And the fear starts to build in her, fear that things might fall apart, here and now....
OOC - James, I think with Dworkin doing another job and so many people,
we may end up having an enforced limit of 1-2 posts a day anyways.
:) Right now we're all going to way for the Aged Peeper to see
what happens anyway.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Seeing a flurry of activity, none of it directed at him, Dorian simply
takes a step away from the others, cautiously. His hand grips his
crooked staff tighter.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn's dagger was in the air even before Jack finished his first
words to her and if needed, she will shift her roll to get her sword
and she will keep moving once weapon is in hand, "If you ever take my
weapon again, I will take your head."
Once armed though, She continues to concentrate on her movements, the
actions more deliberate and slower than she normally would move when
sword fighting but she has more than one sort of defense to raise and
manage. Only the fact that all of her missile weapons are used up after
the thrown dagger at Jack saves him from getting another attack at him
immediately. I
will remember to keep my full compliment of weapons on me at all times
and more than one set of shuriken with spares in backpack.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Time seems to slow...
Kaelyn's sword is out as the wolf dashes past.
Fiona smiles as she sees the animal. She is familiar with its bonded partner.
James shouts a warning.
Kaelyn's strike stops short as Fiona yells, "No!" Then the blade is gone, to reappear in Jack's hand.
In one quick move, Kaelyn hurls her knife.
Andrej and Cyan both move to block it, but neither looks as if they will succeed.
Fiona's guard sends a knife of his own flashing throught the air.
It strikes Kaelyn's, pommel first, and both go skittering off across
the yard.
"Predictable." grunts the man, from behind the helm that hides half of his face.
Jack realises the danger he was just in, and drops the blade, to clatter on the stones of the courtyard.
Jonnee stands up looking for Kalika, and wonders what he just missed, since there is a definite tension in the air.
Fiona looks from one to another in the group, "The next one of you who tries anything,
I will have my bodyguard cut them down where they stand. This
behaviour attracts too much attention, even in the current
circumstances. Am I clear?" She gestures towards Berd and his odd mount, still lurking near the door, "And what is that?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan nods, slowly, stepping carefully to make certain that she is
between Jack and Kaelyn when the third red-haired woman recovers her
sword. The Bard, as always, holds Kirilindë in her left hand, by the sheath. Her foot slowly pushes away the
glass bottle lying on the floor as she considers the two knives, and
what the 'guard' had to do in order to perform the intercept. Analyze, synthesize, execute accurately...in how much time?
It's...well, it's worthy of a song. She'll have to make one up, sometime soon.
"That?" Sapphire eyes flicker to Berd and his odd 'ride'.
"The...creature? Berd, really, did you have to...?" The
little dragon lets out a small, chiming laugh, and allows the arachnoid
to dissolve into smoke. The crystal sphere, however, falls to the
ground with it's own ringing sound, humming slightly from the resonance
as Berd lands atop it an, standing his front legs, 'walks' the sphere
over to Cyan. She picks it up and Berd scuttles along her arm to
rest on her shoulders, immediately lying down.
"This is an...an egg, your Highness. Spawn of the shapeshifter,
most likely; Berd discovered many of these above, and destroyed them,
entombing this one for later study." The little dragon scratches
his own eye orbit happily, then chirps loudly. Cyan, for her
part, shifts her footing slightly, more relaxed, but also prepared for
trouble should it continue to materialize.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Picking himself up from the floor where he had landed, Andrej shakes
his head, a frown on his face. He straightens, then assesses the
situation anew as it presents itself. The two daggers on the floor, the
tension in the air, Lady Fiona's rebuke, the bodyguard's stance. Andrej
looks again at the quiet, competent man, then nods in silent
acknowledgement of the man's superior ability.
***He is definitely out of my league. As to be expected.***
He smiles softly, then settles once more into a position to listen and stay in the background, his arms again crossed.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack nodded to Kaelyn and then to Fiona silently, his way of saying he understood. Why did I do that? he asked himself as the attention was tranfered to Berd and the Egg Hunter
is one one of the last things I have to hold to of Kalika, and he will
play as he does. I feel so bound to protect him. People have been way
to fast to draw weapons on this little venture. Endagering one and all
in the group. What the Red Head mercenary had done was basicly
resonable, yet I am having a hard time trusting someone that is so
qucik to draw a weapon. What she had done after was not so reasonable,
then again was it resonable to take the weapon from her?
Jack chewed his lip and worried, he had tried to
disarm her and the situation and fell so short. Now what choices would
he have if he had to do it again? Her threats left him little to none.
Rather than continue to worry about it he let it all go and hoped for the best.
Jack fell back inside himself and called forth tendril
and lens again. With them he started seaching this world over again,
looking much closer. The enemy was providing to be trickier and
trickier. Two worlds within the circle around Amber, not just the orb
on the pattern. Also an attack aginst the royalty, replacing royalty
with that thing and having eggs now as well. The sudden change in
religion. Yes there was so many layers it was best to take a good long
look.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian raised an eyebrow as he scanned the gathering. "Amateurs" he mutters under his breath. As he expected, Princess Fiona had barked
an order and defused the whole thing. He envied such respect, born of
her reputation and power, of course.
Still, there was much to learn from the exchange.
The redheaded warrior, Kaelyn, had revealed her
impulsiveness and aggression. It wasn't clear if she acted to defend
herself or the other redheaded youth; however it was clear that she
tended to be rash and defended herself through offense. She could have
simply stepped clear of the perceived attack and taken the time to
assess the situation; surely, her armor was more than just metal and
provided defense enough.
Jack of Shadows, revealed himself a peacemaker of sorts. Perhaps he
acted out of some loyalty to the animal, which he seems to know. If so,
it is a weakness he reveals to everyone gathered.
The large warrior stepped in front of the dagger. Self sacrifice, for what or whom? Jack? Or the redhead with him. What's with all the redheads, anyway?
Still, as a group they revealed associations and natures quite easily. Only Fiona and her bodyguard reacted calmly.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd settles himself down, looking rather pleased with himself.
His eyes sparkle for a long moment, then fade slightly, and he coughs
once, producing a small, green cloud of smoke that fades away into the
wind.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Fiona (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Eggs! You're sure all were
destroyed? We need to discuss this, but not here. The ship
would be safest. At least there I know exactly who the prying
ears are, and which members of my family each works for."
Fiona glances around the yard, frowning, "The
rest of my men are helping to fight the fires and evacuate
people. Hopefully that will lessen tensions between Amber and
Cadiniagart. You people will serve as an escort."
"Mercenary," a slight but noticeable emphasis on that word, "you may retrieve your blades."
("The only ones shown." grumbles the guard.)
Fiona ignores the interruption. A nod to Dorian, "Will you join us, as a guest of a princess of Amber?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian smiled thinly. Guest. Certainly not a favor, that would imply debt, but still nothing we could say no to, not to a princess of Amber. A simply sentance, and yet he was trapped into service. Perhaps there was a way to turn it around, yet. "It would be an honor, of course."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd glances at the Princess, his grin like a dozens of needles, all pushed together.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack stands looking far and away, though his eyes swim into focus for a bit and he nodds to the small dragon.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo lets out a quick sigh of relief which turns into a hearty
chuckle as he slowly shakes his head and claps in hands in applause
saying in a bemused tone, "Bravo,
bravo... oh what an excellent performance... you all certainly know how
to put on a show! Though I suppose special mention must be made
for Hunter's contribution... truly the star of the show. I guess
some of us didn't get enough chance to show off our respective talents
and prowess during the battle and felt an encore performance was in
order... nice to see that the ending resulted in fewer fatalities than
the battle."
Leonardo walked over to Hunter and petted him on the head saying in a mock scolding tone, "My
dear Hunter, when are you going to learn that to the eyes of strangers
you do not resemble a harmless pussy cat? Still I don't blame you
for not having mastered human manners... aferall, there are certainly
plenty of humans who have yet to grasp the basics of etiquette."
Leonardo backed off and sighed again as he looked over at Fiona... and her "bodyguard".
Nice to see that things don't change. Once again someone
reacts in a perfectly normal way towards an apparently hostile wolf....
and then that person ends up being blamed! I certainly don't like
that trick Jack pulled... if he ever made a grab for "Piece"... I would
be considerably more agitated than Kaelyn!
The fact is, given the recent conflict... Hunter was most definitely in
the wrong! Nerves are already taunt enough as it is and most of
us either don't know... or don't fully trust each other. The last
thing we need is another apparent attack... but I suppose Hunter might
not grasp that fully.
While I can't blame the others for trying to preserve Hunter... I do
think certain people overreacted. What if Hunter had actually
been a hostile enemy... and he certainly gave that impression at the
first glance! Then... then Kaelyn wouldn't have been regarded as
overreacting. Besides, I've seen Hunter move and fight before...
he doesn't need much in the way of protection.
As for the knife... well that may have been hasty... then again, if
Jack had taken "Piece" from me... well a knife might not have been
strong enough a response! Still... I think we all could all use a
bit of calm... and that goes for Hunter as well.
But... it seems that Fiona has spoken and that's that. Now who
could Mr. Bodyguard be I wonder? He's certainly fast and highly
skilled... better than either Kaelyn or Cyan. Well I can't wait
to see what's happening next. Why do I get a "bad feelings" about
how smoothly the old timers and new comers are going to "blend"?
The comment regarding "oil and water" does spring to mind... but
perhaps I'm just getting too cynical in my old age.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn retrieves all the daggers that can be salvaged as well as going
into her pack to strap on a couple of extras so that she has at least
eight in easy reach although only five are accessable to each hand. Her
sword is reverted to a ring and it will not so easily be pulled from
her hand again.
She moves to head for the ship but she has a feeling there are going to
be some uncomfortable questions from Fiona ahead. Still a charging wolf
is a threat and someone that just steals her sword and her possessions
at such at time is an enemy. Once he gets spared, the second time he
tries to leave her defenseless, she will insure there is no third time.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron's own exhaustion at the entirety of his journey had been slowly
creeping up on him since his time in San Anyn. The flurry of activity
incited only the smallest of attentions from the man, though it wasn't
for lack of wanting to react.
No. Far from it. He knew that the people involved, the ones he knew
personally, and the ones he sensed were somewhat beyond him, had the
problem already in hand. The only thing he got from the brief and
somewhat surprising exchange between Jack, the "guard" and Kaelyn was a
thankfulness that he left Chrissie back at Cyan's cabin.
Chrissie... how long had she been in that cabin, now? A month? God, he
was feeling guilty for it, but not so much as to want to take back the
decision.
Still kneeling by Cyan, he finally looked to Fiona and stood. He seemed
to be appraising her as an... equal? Perhaps, but there was respect in
the gaze. Significant respect.
After all, he still didn't know who his mother was. Nor his father, for that matter... but better to leave that mystery alone.
"Lady Fiona, if I may, what is the plan for the future of this quest? I
won't bother with explaining the ramifications of what has already
transpired, for I believe my comrades have more than likely told you of
what has occurred. I am, however, curious as to the path upon which
we've been set."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
What had he missed, with Hunter pinning him down and blocking his view?
Who is this doofus, and why is he apologising for the wolf?
And (important, this one) if Hunter's here, why isn't Kalika with him?
Jack and Cyan seem to be hiding something, not deliberately, more like
neither of them wants to be the one to tell him the Bad News.
Which can only mean one thing - Hunter is alone now.
He can feel it, the tension in his arms, the itching in his wrists. Something bad is going on here.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd crawls across Cyan's shoulders and hops to Jack's, settling down and curling up.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan watches with bemusement as the one known as Kaelyn straps on eight
daggers, absently noting their placement. It's interesting to see
where she puts them all, from a scholarly point of view.
Leonardo, as usual, rolls out a long and convoluted speech to murkily
illuminate something that could clearly be said in a single
sentence. This time his point is rather obvious, so she turns
towards Aaron.
Now. Here is a mystery. The old Aaron would have charged
back up the stairs and been caught halfway when the creature
fell. The old Aaron would have been the first to pull steel when
the woman, Kaelyn, did so. The old Aaron would not have spoken
with such careful consideration. Cyan ponders this, studying
him. More
has changed here than simply his appearance. Aaron has gained
much from his losses, whatever they may be - wisdom, likely more than
the little I possess. His posture - strength and calm, without
arrogance. Very impressive, Cyan concedes, not at all
grudgingly, and decides to at least listen to what the man has to say
with an open mind. "Aaron, we have spoken to Fiona regarding
this," she says quietly. "We are to join with her agents, here,
and continue following the quest in whatever way seems fit. Jack
and I have some ideas, but..." And she nods, then, glancing
around. "Further opinion would be valued."
Jonnee, though, is eyeing her and Jack. Cyan swallows and glances
towards Jack, seeing that he is far away - far away from all of them,
now. With a quick motion of her head, she signals Jonnee to join
them.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee walks over towards Cyan when she signals him, releasing his hand
from Hunter's fur. It's a struggle to keep his eyes from
focussing too tightly, narrowing down to the killer vision that blanks out everything except the prey.
"What's going on?" he asks, momentarily proud that his voice doesn't catch in his throat.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan glances around, taking stock of the situation. The others
are getting ready to leave - they have a moment. Best this is
done, and done now.
When she looks back to Jonnee, Cyan restrains herself from stepping
back to make room. There's something cold and hard lurking under
that smile, something full of deadly purpose. She senses it isn't
directed at her, yet, but it pulls at the fear circling deep within
her, holding a lit match near the fury. This
one is...dangerous. VERY dangerous, moreso than any in these
'agents', I think. Smiling face, a good nature...the purpose and
power of a killer.
Recalling the speed at which he moved, the deadly bone blades, she wonders if a pace would make a difference.
Unimportant, now. Gripping Kirilinde's cord with the
same hand holding the crystal, Cyan places her other palm on Jonnee's
shoulder. "Jonnee, there is no easy way to say this. Kalika
was a member of this quest, as were we all. She and Jack...they
became a triat, with Hunter. Do you understand? They were
together. But Kalika, spirits bless her soul, was sorely wounded
in a battle that claimed the life of another on the quest. She
chose to return to her homeland, in order to carry out certain tasks
and, I think, prepare to assist us in other ways."
Cyan's sad, amethyst eyes search Jonnee's for a long moment. "Her
world moves much faster than ours. You understand - you are a
Worldwalker, are you not? She grew old...and died after a long
life of honourable service to her people." Tears well up in
Cyan's eyes as they study Jonnee. "She was a friend, and a fine
one who spoke of you often," the Bard says, her trained voice still
clear despite her obvious sorrow.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack seemed to be focusing back on reality a bit with the conversation turning to Kalika.
He walked up to Jonnee ignoring the danger signs, reaching out he
hugged Kalika's old friend, A big bear hug lifting the other man
briefly from the ground. "It is good to finaly meet you Jonnee, Any
friend of my Lalai is a friend of mine." Jack said softly "I'm sorry Jonnee, I can't help feeling that I am to blame somehow. "
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian sighs heavily. "This display of sentimentality is... touching." He says coldly. "However,
as I understand the situation, Amber is still threatened. Thus, we are
wasting time. We can mourn the dead at a more appropriate time. The
ship waits."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The march down to the docks begins. At the palace gate, Fiona points to one of the guards, "You.
Find whoever is in charge and tell them that Princess Fiona and her
retinue, including Prince Dominique of Andara, have retired to her ship
for their own safety. We can be contacted when this emergency is
over."
The guard doesn't answer, and Fiona doesn't wait for him to do
so. Instead she sweeps imperiously out through the gate with her
retinue, while the man hurries off to find somebody to pass the message
on to.
The mood on the journey is strange, a mixture of elation at a victory,
anger, depression and shame at the events which had followed it, and
sorrow at the loss of an old friend.
Hunter leans against Jonnee's hip the whole way, and the young man keeps his fingers knotted in the wolf's fur.
One incident on the way is decidedly odd. A large raven flaps
down the street, glides past the group, and wheels to land directly in
Jack's path. Every time he tries to step past, it moves to block
him again, fixing him with the gaze of its one good eye. The
other eye, the right, is a pale blue orb, as opaque as marble.
Jack reaches his hand out, in an attempt to shoo it away, and it flaps
up onto his wrist with a triumphant cawing. From there it moves
to his shoulder and glares balefully at anybody who gets too close.
Fiona and her guard eye the creature dubiously, but then the princess says,
"No matter." and continues walking.
The dinghy accomodates all of them easily, and carries them out to the Amberite warship anchored just offshore.
Soon they are all inside a large cabin at the stern of the ship which
obviously serves for discussions of strategy and tactics when the
vessel is on missions of a militaristic nature.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Walking beside Jonnee, Cyan appears disturbed as they head towards the
harbour, her jade eyes flicking worriedly towards Jack, then to
Dorian. When she glances toward the sorcerer, her lips thin for a
moment. Cold, that one. Very cold. I wonder...would he be so quick to say these things if he lost someone of importance?
Then again, perhaps he has. Perhaps it is for that very reason that he reacts this way. Resolving not to judge the man, Cyan looks Jack over another time.
Her gaze settles on Jonnee for a moment, worried about the man's
reaction to the news. Then she nods, slowly, as if receiving some
vital information.
When the Raven appears, Cyan watches it dubiously for a moment then
sighs, looking down despondently. Picking her head up, she walks
alongside Jonnee. Berd, for his part, resents the intrustion and
hisses briefly at the Raven from Jack's other shoulder before settling
down.
"Not exactly the best possible meeting," she says quietly. It's a
comment that could be directed at Aaron, at Jonnee, or at both of
them. Or at any others within hearing.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
<Backpost>
James steps back again as the tension eases...slowly. There will
be much to consider in the aftermath to this little incident.
There seemed the very real risk that different individuals within the
group could find themself in a spiral of conflict.
As he steps back he gives a low whistle. James isn't crass enough
to state the blindingly obvious but the implication is obvious enough, Damn he's fast!
Of the resulting conversation the only comment that really makes an
impact is Dorian's last statement. That brings disapproval.
In James eyes even if Amber is under threat a moment to recognise grief
is never wasted.
On the way to the ship, James slips back into the role of bodyguard, staying silent and keeping an eye out for danger.
</Backpost>
At the ship he makes an effort to clear the air.
"Princess Fiona, please forgive my presumption, but it might help if we
introduced ourselves. My name is James." He turns around as
he says this, deliberately including everybody.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack had shot Dorian an unreadble look but did not
comment, instead followed along in silence, distant again. At first he
seemed frustarted by the dark birds attention, then he shifted to
bemused curiosity and amusment at last as the Raven landed on his
shoulder. Digging in his pack he pulled out a piece of old bread and
gave it to her, stroking the bird for a bit. As he coutined to walk
with his admirer he quietly recited The Raven.
Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered weak and weary,
Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore,
While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping,
As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.
`'Tis some visitor,' I muttered, `tapping at my chamber door -
Only this, and nothing more.'
Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the bleak December,
And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor.
Eagerly I wished the morrow; - vainly I had sought to borrow
From my books surcease of sorrow - sorrow for the lost Lenore -
For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels named Lenore -
Nameless here for evermore.
And the silken sad uncertain rustling of each purple curtain
Thrilled me - filled me with fantastic terrors never felt before;
So that now, to still the beating of my heart, I stood repeating
`'Tis some visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door -
Some late visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door; -
This it is, and nothing more,'
Presently my soul grew stronger; hesitating then no longer,
`Sir,' said I, `or Madam, truly your forgiveness I implore;
But the fact is I was napping, and so gently you came rapping,
And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my chamber door,
That I scarce was sure I heard you' - here I opened wide the door; -
Darkness there, and nothing more.
Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing,
Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before
But the silence was unbroken, and the darkness gave no token,
And the only word there spoken was the whispered word, `Lenore!'
This I whispered, and an echo murmured back the word, `Lenore!'
Merely this and nothing more.
Back into the chamber turning, all my soul within me burning,
Soon again I heard a tapping somewhat louder than before.
`Surely,' said I, `surely that is something at my window lattice;
Let me see then, what thereat is, and this mystery explore -
Let my heart be still a moment and this mystery explore; -
'Tis the wind and nothing more!'
Open here I flung the shutter, when, with many a flirt and flutter,
In there stepped a stately raven of the saintly days of yore.
Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he;
But, with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door -
Perched upon a bust of Pallas just above my chamber door -
Perched, and sat, and nothing more.
Then this ebony bird beguiling my sad fancy into smiling,
By the grave and stern decorum of the countenance it wore,
`Though thy crest be shorn and shaven, thou,' I said, `art sure no craven.
Ghastly grim and ancient raven wandering from the nightly shore -
Tell me what thy lordly name is on the Night's Plutonian shore!'
Quoth the raven, `Nevermore.'
Much I marvelled this ungainly fowl to hear discourse so plainly,
Though its answer little meaning - little relevancy bore;
For we cannot help agreeing that no living human being
Ever yet was blessed with seeing bird above his chamber door -
Bird or beast above the sculptured bust above his chamber door,
With such name as `Nevermore.'
But the raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only,
That one word, as if his soul in that one word he did outpour.
Nothing further then he uttered - not a feather then he fluttered -
Till I scarcely more than muttered `Other friends have flown before -
On the morrow will he leave me, as my hopes have flown before.'
Then the bird said, `Nevermore.'
Startled at the stillness broken by reply so aptly spoken,
`Doubtless,' said I, `what it utters is its only stock and store,
Caught from some unhappy master whom unmerciful disaster
Followed fast and followed faster till his songs one burden bore -
Till the dirges of his hope that melancholy burden bore
Of "Never-nevermore."'
But the raven still beguiling all my sad soul into smiling,
Straight I wheeled a cushioned seat in front of bird and bust and door;
Then, upon the velvet sinking, I betook myself to linking
Fancy unto fancy, thinking what this ominous bird of yore -
What this grim, ungainly, gaunt, and ominous bird of yore
Meant in croaking `Nevermore.'
This I sat engaged in guessing, but no syllable expressing
To the fowl whose fiery eyes now burned into my bosom's core;
This and more I sat divining, with my head at ease reclining
On the cushion's velvet violet lining that the lamp-light gloated o'er,
But whose velvet violet lining with the lamp-light gloating o'er,
She shall press, ah, nevermore!
Then, methought, the air grew denser, perfumed from an unseen censer
Swung by angels whose faint foot-falls tinkled on the tufted floor.
`Wretch,' I cried, `thy God hath lent thee - by these angels he has sent thee
Respite - respite and nepenthe from thy memories of Lenore!
Quaff, oh quaff this kind nepenthe, and forget this lost Lenore!'
Quoth the raven, `Nevermore.'
`Prophet!' said I, `thing of evil! - prophet still, if bird or devil! -
Whether tempter sent, or whether tempest tossed thee here ashore,
Desolate yet all undaunted, on this desert land enchanted -
On this home by horror haunted - tell me truly, I implore -
Is there - is there balm in Gilead? - tell me - tell me, I implore!'
Quoth the raven, `Nevermore.'
`Prophet!' said I, `thing of evil! - prophet still, if bird or devil!
By that Heaven that bends above us - by that God we both adore -
Tell this soul with sorrow laden if, within the distant Aidenn,
It shall clasp a sainted maiden whom the angels named Lenore -
Clasp a rare and radiant maiden, whom the angels named Lenore?'
Quoth the raven, `Nevermore.'
`Be that word our sign of parting, bird or fiend!' I shrieked upstarting -
`Get thee back into the tempest and the Night's Plutonian shore!
Leave no black plume as a token of that lie thy soul hath spoken!
Leave my loneliness unbroken! - quit the bust above my door!
Take thy beak from out my heart, and take thy form from off my door!'
Quoth the raven, `Nevermore.'
And the raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting
On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;
And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,
And the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;
And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor
Shall be lifted - nevermore!
"I shall call you Lenore I belive, Berd be nice to Lenore" Jack said
with that his attention swam back into focus,and focused on Fiona "This
world is clean now it seems, it breaks are returing to normal and there
are no outside forces at work."
Jack nods and glances at Cyan.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Still walking next to Jonnee, Cyan watches with bemusement as Jack
begins his long and winding poem. "Edgar," she says with
fascination. "You have spoken to Edgar? Is this his
brother's poetry? I met him but once, on his journey, the journey of
the Black Throne, to save his love. His brother's poetry was
similar to this, and there was one poem of a Raven." Reaching
over, she hesitantly holds out a finger to 'Lenore'. "It is my
pleasure to meet you, Lenore."
"I am pleased," she continues, topaz eyes shining, "that the world is well. Well enough to survive, in any case."
[After boarding the ship]
When they board the ship, Cyan nods to James, her eyes lighting up. It
would be a good thing. I have already met Andrej, of course...but
perhaps the formal exchange of names will assist in smoothing over any
ill-feelings that yet remain. "A fine idea, Sir James," she
states, bowing to him, "and I thank you for the introduction."
She turns as he did to include everyone in her greeting.
"I am Cyan, of No Place in Particular. It is my pleasure to meet
you all." There's a look of appreciation and thanks in her eyes
as she straightens and raises her eyebrows to James, a grin dancing
across her face. "That one, there," she continues, pointing to
Berd on Jack's shoulder (the little Drake eyeing Lenore balefully out
of the corner of one glittering eye), "is Berd, my companion, friend,
and sometime mentor."
The dragon's head comes up, and he looks around as if caught
off-guard. Then he lets out a chiming chirp, and settles back
down, closing his eyes.
"Berd," Cyan admits ruefully, "is not one for ceremony, I fear."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
<backpost>
Leonardo, seeing the "Kalika Fan Club" gathering around Jonnee and
Hunter, decided to pull back and away from the small group to give them
their time to mourn. The fact was that Leonardo had no real fond
memories of Kalika, she has been cold and aloof and WAY to willing to
sick her wolf on anyone she growled at.
As for Hunter, the wolf had earned Leonardo's trust to some degree
because it had helped him with Simon on Escher... but now that they had
both rejoined the group... it was clear where the wolf's true loyalties
lie. Hunter was Kalika's pet despite her death... that made him
the pet of Kalika's "friends" and Leonardo knew better than to make the
mistake of counting himself as one of them.
Leonardo gave Hunter a brief forelorn look, sighed slightly and then shrugged casually as he said to Jonnee, "Well
it seems Hunter has found a proper someone to transfer his affections
to now that Kalika is no longer able to return them. He was of
some considerable assistance to me earlier and for that I am
grateful... however it seems best that he be turned over to the care of
those who bore a stronger connection to his Mistress than I ever
had. Do take good care of him... he's a bit prone to taking risks
but so far none the worse for it."
Leonardo turned his back to the group and looked at the strangers of
the group, it seemed they were not that much more cohesive a band than
the one Jack and Cyan led. Perhaps it was impossible for unique
people to accept the harness of anyone... even the powerful
leader-types who were "in the know".
When Dorian made his final statement, Leonardo looked at the man with a
raised eyebrow of curiousity. It was a bold statement to make in
the present mixed company and when neither Jack nor Cyan moved to
strike this man down with either action or word... Leonardo allowed
himself a quirky cryptic smirk which he was careful to keep from the
view of Cyan or Jack or even Aaron.
So... another who does not bend to fruitless sentimentality... at
least not in the face of potential danger. It is a harsh
statement... but then how long have Cyan and Jack had to grieve?
The woman is dead and tears have been shed... life must go on.
David is dead and I have grieved but now I move on to do what needs to
be done for I cannot bring back the dead and all the tears will not
revive him. Had Simon perished... it would be the same, grief
then and action now!
Besides... the woman abandoned Jack and the rest at a moment of need...
why do they still feel such emotional attachment? Then again...
those who stayed and served during the moment of need were cast off
rather easily once the danger had passed... so what good is that as a
judge of worth?
I wonder... Jack and Cyan have seen this man's Power... do they hold
back their rebukes because they fear him... or because they feel they
need him and realize that it will be difficult to use the man if they
offend him?
</backpost>
Leonardo strolled down towards the docks following Fiona. He was
not too keen on playing the obediant lap dog to an Amber Princess but
one did not say NO to Fiona... or rather one never said it a second
time. She would have her way and Leonardo would play along... it
was probably the ONLY way he would get any really useful
information. Then again... a "bargain" with the Royalty of Amber
was always a one-sided deal and no doubt Leonardo would again be left
with less than he gave. Leonardo noted the raven with a raised
eyebrow and then saw how it finally rested on Jack's shoulder.
Great... another "berd"... that's all we need. Between a pet
dragon, a pet wolf and now a pet raven... we've collected quite the
menagerie... so much for blending in and fading into the
woodwork. Perhaps we could disguise ourselves as a travelling
circus?
Still... there's Kaelyn and there's Dorian... neither have been quick
to bend the knee or neck when it comes to Jack and Cyan... and
interesting development to say the least. Jonnee appears to be
eating out of Hunter's paw and that links him, via Kalika, to Jack'a
and Cyan's camp.
Aaron... well he's an odd one. From her rants before I left, I
thought Cyan would sooner run the Amberman through with a blade as
welcome him back to the group... and yet his return seems greeted with
warmth, though perhaps some of that is just chaffing? He on the
other hand seems slightly less impulsive though I didn't have much to
judge during our first meeting. Still... the man has a sharp
tongue for The Pair... but does not seem to get much sharpness in
return. He is at once both defiantly proud... and subserviently
sheepish around The Pair. What hold do they have over him I
wonder?
As for the rest... difficult to say as yet. But what is Fiona's
business in all of this... how does she connect and how strong the
connection? I suppose I shall find out soon enough... or rather I
shall find out what she wished me to learn and nothing more... which
may be neither a here nor a there.
Ah yes... it's good to be "home"... I was beginning to forget what it was like NOT to trust someone!
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
On the ship.
Jack's eyes swim into focus as he is able to now
not have to look at things so close and simply quietly work in the
background. A smile comes to his face "As I have said I am Jack of
shadows, and this little woman has told me her name is Lenore. If it
matters to anyone, I have started things in motion to eradicate the
last influnces of the enemy. The Old Curches will blame this on the new
religion and demonic influance, not Amber. They will support the
next royal heir who will be well disposed to strong ties with Amber, so
they might stand against what almost destroyed their world."
That said Jack moved over and found a place to sit where he could
work away in relative peace. His eyes close for a moment and his head
tilts as if leaning into an unseen touch.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn keeps her eye closely on Jack, she doubts he could have done
what he said that he did since people are influenced by what happen
most recently and it will be a while before the noble houses sort out
their new king and there are some pro war factions that would delight
in civil war as much as war with Amber. She just doesn't trust
him and the sooner he is gone, the better.
<b>"I am Kaelyn, in service to the Amber guard" until I resign to my superior or they no longer need my services and terminate my pay. She knows the guard with Fiona is many times better than her and she
tries to figure where she might have seen him before or have a chance
to train with him in the future.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Following the group to the docks and then to the ship, Aaron had been
decidedly silent. He didn't seem to be focused on anyone or anywhere in
particular, but he did eye the raven with a form of curiosity and
slight amusement, a small smile reaching his features.
Once upon the ship, and noticing Cyan and Jack making their
introductions before they settled down, Aaron decided to settle down first, and then introduce himself. He sat down upon the deck somewhat distantly from the collected group and let out a tired sigh.
Looking up to all those he didn't know, he appraised the lot with a single-eyed stare.
"I am Aaron," he said, and shrugged his shoulders slightly, the straps
beneath his jacket shifting as the sheath of his blade slid down.
Removing it from his back, he set the sheathed weapon within his lap
and placed his single hand upon it.
"This is Ilsefranvir." he said, looking from the sword and back up to
the rest of them, his dark eye flickering from behind curly locks of
honey-brown hair. "Treat her with as much respect as you treat any one
of us."
"A pleasure," the sword responded.
Glancing behind him at Jack as he settled down, Aaron let out a sigh and closed his eye also.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
The black robed sorcered stands, clearing his throat and pausing to make sure all attention is on him. "I am Dorian," he says as his eyes scan the room. He pauses, wondering what else he
could possibly say that would have any meaning or relevance here. He
has no titles, no job, nothing to offer that these people would ever
care about. Finding nothing else to add, he simply sits down and waits.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
<Backpost>
Andrej was silent the whole way back to the ship. His thoughts were
revolving around tha things he had seen, learned and experienced today.
In a sense it was oddly reassuring, strangely like a homecoming. His
foster father had always said that trusting a scion of Amber or an
affiliate was a bad idea, that there were loops within loops within
loops just on the surface of everything Amber. Just like this attempt
at usurping Amber's influence in this world. It smelled like, felt like
a plot by an Amberite. Maybe, maybe not.
And this meeting of strangers, of battle brothers, of people long
separated, it also had a touch of manipulation in it, by a strong force
in the background. Events transpired around this locus in time and
space, events that formed, connected and dissolved bonds...
Andrej shook his head to clear away the cobwebs from his mind. This was
way too philosophical for him. He also had completely missed the
arrival of the raven, Lenore.
***Some kind of warrior I am... Woolgathering at my age, bad enough to completely forget my surroundings. Bah!***, he thought in disgust, turning his awareness to the outside world again as he followed the group onto the ship.
<On the Ship>
Boarding the ship easily, Andrej nearly brings up the rear, keeping
mostly to himself and a lookout for any kind of trouble. Unnecessary in
the presence of such a formidable man as Lady Fiona's - bodyguard, but
better than his earlier bout of woolgathering. He breathes in deeply,
closing his eyes and exhales slowly again, in the manner his
foster-brother had shown him. Breathing in - exhale. Slowly the
tension, the adrenalin in his bloodstream, is washed away, leaving the
world a coldly functional place around him.
As the others, one by one start to introduce themselves, he takes in
the names and their particular descriptions of themselves and adds his
own.
"I am Andrej, a wanderer on a mission and I am here on Lady Fiona's behest."
He settles back against the cabin wall and waits for the crisis meeting, debriefing or peptalk to begin.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Nothing to see here as Jack sits quietly
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Nothing to see here either. ;)
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Jonnee Kay, in service to Amber, and not to Amber's money."
The man's voice is quiet, almost monotone, lacking his usual good humour.
"This is Hunter, and you can consider him my brother. He doesn't work for Amber's money either."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn did not miss the arrival of the raven and she keeps hoping it
will peck out Jack's eye but she will see what the others do. That none
of her companions reacted to a charging blur leaping at the group and
one of her companions other than her disturbs her greatly. They were
lucky it turned out to be a friend and not another shape shifting
monster trying to ambush. The talking sword is a new one to her. She
has heard of great blades of power but never a talking one.
Best to keep my loyalties to myself. It is safer.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron shifted his position, leaning back against the railing of the ship and resting his head against it. He seemed quite tired.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
As everyone else had completed their introductions, Leonardo stepped
forward with a graceful bow and said in a cordial and polite tone, "It
is indeed a honor and a pleasure to make the personal acquaitances of
so many brave, bright, proud and powerful personages as are assembled
here... and to think that so many gifted and talented individuals are
in the direct service of Amber, how fortunate that realm is.
I am Leonardo Henri Cezanne of... many places, as no doubt we all are in our own way.
I must admit to being a bit humbled to be included in such august
company for when it comes to the proverbial "Art of War"... I have
always been more a student of the former than the latter... but I am
learning and improving, always."
Leonardo rose from his bow and stepped back to return to his former place among the crowd rather than standing out from it.
"Everyday, in every way... I'm getting better and better"... as they
say. I wonder if Her Highness is planning on introducing her
"bodyguard"... for if he is but a mere soldier, the she is nothing but
a shadow of her former self... and I believe neither to be true.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian remains seated, eyes forward, his hands arched in front of him and his elbows rested on the table. "Quaint.
We have dispensed with the obligatory introductions, as well as the
superfluous fawning and posturing, at this point. Assuming that all
know Princess Fiona, and also assuming her bodyguard wishes to remain
anonymous..." he pauses to glance at Fiona for negation, "...I
will move us on to the next logical topic. What exactly is happening
here? Again, I merely chanced upon this drama as it was unfolding.”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn. Cyan considers the woman, her plethora of sharp and pointies, and how she names herself. Of
the Royal Guard. A mercenary and jeweler, apparantly.
Interesting. Obviously 'on contract', as Jack might put it. Skilled, too. That much was certain, and with an interesting trick ring. And not at all hesitant to utter threats of death.
"And a good day to you too, Ilsefravnir," the Bard returns
to the sword. She's never had a problem with her...and now might
be a good time to 'speak' to her companion.
Cyan nods to Andrej, giving the man a quick smile, the sun catching in
her amethyst eyes. "And you swing a heavy blade, Sir Andrej."
When Jonnee speaks, the pleasure fades from her face, concern and understanding showing through. They
were friends. Good friends, and he knew her longer than we, I
think. The news must be crushing. Ah, curse this
quest. It costs us dearly. The list of people dead that I
know...it is nothing compared to those who have died in the Myriad
Worlds, but it is too long already.
But can we stop? No. Too much, too many lives are at stake.
Leonardo gives his own introduction, James spoke first...it would seem they are complete.
Then Dorian cuts in with a rather...abrupt opening. Cyan blinks
once, cocking her head to the side and frowning, slightly.
"Fawning and posturing? I can appreciate expedience, Sir Dorian,
but perhaps a hint of politeness might oil the wheels of conversation,
allowing them to run more smoothly with the engine breaking down into a
trading of insults." She shrugs. "Politeness costs nothing,
does it not?"
"As to what occurred here...well, the King of this land was recently
slain, ostentiably by none other than Bleys of Amber. We have it
on good authority that Bleys was nowhere near here at the time.
As we have just dealt with a shapeshifter, I think it obvious how this
little ruse was accomplished. In addition, the shapeshifter had
planted many 'eggs'-" and here she rests a hand atop the crystaline
sphere containing one of such eggs "-atop the tower. Evidently
more deviltry planned for the future."
A quick glance toward Jack and Fiona. "In addition, our Enemy
made an attempt to destroy this world...I am uncertain as to whether
that occurred in conjunction with the Shapeshifter's ruse, though it
seems like...the only broken hitch in that connection being the fact
that the Shapeshifter's spawn may have died with the world, had things
progressed to that point before they 'hatched'." The Bard
shrugs. "I have no idea as to the amount of time that would take,
though."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian's dark eyes flicker coldly, reflecting tiny dots of light within their inky black pupils. "Thank
you, Cyan. I am moderately more informed than I used to be... on many
levels. I will try to be less expedient in the future. Forgive my
weakness, but I am not used to oiling my conversations since I have
been away from Amber for so long. However, if you feel it is necessary,
I can guide you to an entire shadow just teaming with polite people
where you can feel quite special; but they cannot help you save Amber.
I can, and I have offered my assistance freely, unhindered by hints of either politeness or insult." He smirks thinly. "I
do not believe I understand the shapeshifter's motivations. Surely, it
didn't seek to both rule this world and destroy it? Was destroying the
world its backup plan when it could not rule? Am I also correct in
assuming that this thing has a superior, somewhere, and is part of a
more organized mobilization?"
He gritted his teeth in anger and shame, not at Cyan, but at himself
for indulging in such digression. It was unnecessary, and likely only
to cause more emotional bantering, which he would have to work twice as
hard to extricate himself from. However, he could not let her dictate
to him how he should act and speak, just so she could feel more loved.
He was not responsible for her emotional wellness, no matter how hard
she tried to lay it on him.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan stares at the man for a long moment. She isn't certain why
he seems to feel it necessary to hold to his deliberate digressions
into arrogance, rudeness, and insults if his purpose is to get to the
point.
Then again, many people find it the only way to feel good about themselves.
Shadow. Well. That explains much. Fortunately, he is not a part of Fiona's group.
She shrugs. "I would think it more expedient to avoid both
politeness and impoliteness if removing clutter from a conversation is
your goal." And enough on that.
"As for the matter of the Shapeshifter, as I said I am uncertain as to
its motivations or even if it was working in conjunction with our
Enemy. It is possible coincidence had more than one group of foes
here. It is also possible that the entire purpose of this was to
bring a Princess of Amber to a World about to die. Perhaps the
Shapeshifter had a means of escape." She shrugs.
"Conjecture. I am positive you could do equally well."
The Bard turns ruby eyes to Fiona. "And so. What do we do,
now? It appears there are six of us to carry out this task.
Seven, perhaps, should Aaron choose to join us. Jack and I were
to return to the Myriad Worlds and continue to take the attack to the
Enemy."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo raised his eyebrow again at Dorian's first remark about
fawning etc. however he couldn't quite suppress a grin as he realized
that this was a man who knew BS when he heard it and had no more time
for games of politeness than Leonardo did.
Leonardo's other eyebrow went up when Cyan stepped in and he couldn't
quite stop himself from shaking his head sadly at the rebuke in Cyan's
tone... still... she was once again the go-to person for
information. A lesson in etiquette with every morsel of info...
that was the polite Bard in a nutshell... or at least so it seemed from
time to time.
But Leonardo's eyebrows were just lowering back down as he shrugged off
both comments.... when Dorian dropped his bomb! This time
Leonardo really tried but couldn't stop the genuine chuckle of mirth
that burst from him. Leonardo rapidly raised his right hand to
cover his mouth as he attempted to stifle the chuckle and his skin took
on a slightly reddish tone of embarrassment as a twinckle of water
formed in the corner of his left eye.
With a small cough and clearing of his throat, Leonardo said in a soft, gentle tone, "Please
excuse the interruption, but I do believe Master Dorian has raised an
interesting question. Is the Enemy is the habit of "giving up"
quite so easily? Why go to all this effort and then when things
get rough, attempt to chuck it all in without much of a fight?
Where were the Archons or similar powerful backup? Is it perhaps
that the Enemy and his closest minions either cannot or dare not
materialize this close to Amber?
The question then would be... are they physically prevented from doing
so, or they lack the Power to do so... or they do not as yet wish to
tip their hand regarding their identity? Certainly the
shapeshifter knew of Her Highness's presence and it is quite likely
that this shapeshifter's master would have been informed that a
Princess of Amber was present... could she perhaps have recognized the
Enemy?
Perhaps if he had taken a direct hand in the operation or if something
of his direct creation were present and could be traced back to him...
his true nature and identity would have been revealed... to Her
Highness at least.
Also... what exactly is the connection between the Broken Pattern and
the Enemy... how or why is the Broken Pattern being used as a
weapon? The Royalty of Amber are the known Masters of the True
Pattern... but who would be considered the equivalent for the Broken
Pattern?
How can the Broken Pattern be used to attack and/or damage the True
Pattern? I have heard that should anything ever happen to the
Pattern, the universe as we know it would cease to exist. But
could someone be so powerful... or deranged.. that he would believe
that the True Pattern could be replaced by the Broken Pattern, that the
breaks could sustain creation... perhaps because only Amber itself is
truly perfect and without breaks?"
Added....
Leonardo hears Cyan's reply and now his eyebrows are up again as he
turns to look at Cyan with a questioning expression and asks in a wary
tone, "Seven...
seven... are you sure of your numbers Bard? I would think that
even if Aaron decides to come along that would surely place the number
at Nine... and that's only if one discounts Hunter and Berd... and the
Raven. Have I miscounted or has not everyone here established a
stake of one sort or another in this venture versus the Enemy?"
So who, I wonder are the magic SIX? If Aaron is the seventh...
with Jack and Cyan no doubt being number ONE and numebr Two
respectively... who fills the other four spots? Has a selection
already been made... oh well... abandoned once shame on you, abandoned
twice shame on me.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
As Cyan's eyes left his, and as Leonardo began to speak, Dorian leaned
back into a more comfortable position. For a moment a satisfied smiled
crossed his lips, as if he'd earned a prize for his efforts. His eyes
shift to Leonardo for a moment, talk of pattern, broken patterns, these
were outside of his realm of understanding. The Amberites were the
master's of the pattern.
His eyes move on and settle momentarily on Jack's, lingered there as if
he meant to say something in between the lines, as if to explain
something, but then the eyes moved on, finally resting on Fiona.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan turns to give Leonardo one raised eyebrow at his speech, eyeing
him with curiousity. She wonders, briefly, why he finds things so
amusing. Obviously Dorian's comments earlier were aimed at the
group in general, and the one with the most bombast and 'fawning'....
I shall never understand him. She reflects on this fact, and shrugs mentally, amber eyes thoughtful. I doubt he will ever understand me, either, so we are equal in that.
"Six of us are chosen as Agents, Leonardo," the Bard explains gently,
smiling softly. "Berd, of course, simply wishes to accompany me,
and Hunter...Hunter, as I'm certain you know, makes his own path.
If he goes with Jonnee, it is because he wills it so, not because he
has been asked by nobility. Lenore...I am currently unsure of
Lenore and her purpose, but I do not think Fiona has asked the Raven to
join us, either. Aaron, I was considering asking to accompany
us. That is seven, by any count. If you wish to volunteer,
of course, that is your own business, but I did not feel it right to
speak for you. I would not presume to do so," the Bard finishes,
then turns back to Fiona, awaiting her response.
As for the rest of his questions, they are obviously not directed at her.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack smiled as he had plenty of
time, but it would best be spent finishing the task at hand rather than
playing cloak and dagger. “Andrej, James, Cyan. . . I meant to
thank you for your assistance as well as Fiona’a admirable guards
man, I made a mistake not expecting such violence. Thank you all. . . I
won’t make the same mistake. Jonnee, it’s nice to see Hunter is keeping
tasteful company again.”
Jack let his attention turn to Dorian and
Leon, “Dorian you are of Amber yet your power is not, nor just mere
sorcery. No not the Pattern like Andrej, James and the Mercenary woman.
I don’t understand this, but I guess this is not mine to understand.
Though I am very good at figuring things out.” Jack flashed a quick
smile. “Leon, I am impressed.” Jack stood up and looked staunchly
nodding with satisfaction. I am sure David, Ares or what ever our old
friends name was would be as well. You can now look at the world using
your Broken Pattern, it is a shame that wen you do so you have to reach
outside the boundaries of your toy’s shielding. It makes you much
easier to read.” He clucked his tongue a few times and shook his head.
“I would be careful with that if I were you, Princess Fiona taught me
that people can be read and watched through the foci of their own
power. These awkward fumblings can be dangerous, remember power flows
can be a two way street. ”
“Now the connection with the broken pattern is
simple these orbs devour energy, the pattern is a very ready supply of
energy. It was eating the pattern, causing breaks in it, after if
finished it would have devoured the matter of this world. After all
what is matter but another form of energy. As for the Artist formerly
know as prince, he was a mere pawn probably, what matters if something
happens to a pawn to these people? What's more is this world could have
been completely uninhabitable by normal people in a matter of
minuets if the right part of the Pattern were destroyed. However that
was not normal people. It was one of the most fluid skin shifters I
have ever seen. It probably could have survived the month it
would have taken for this world to be destroyed and been long gone with
it’s eggs.”
“My question for Fiona would be,
what exactly was the Chimera thing and what is it nature. If the enemy
used one, it means they will probably be using more. Also for any that
care there is another orb in the circle of worlds around Amber, but I
don’t think we can win this on at a time. There are possibly
millions of worlds world’s with these things, and a much greater plot.
Now I my self need two hours without anyone bothering me to finish
setting things right in this world. Fiona, may Cyan, Aaron and I retire
for that time and a little more to rest under your protection? After
that we may move out, depending.”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
His eye slowly sliding open to gaze back upon the world, Aaron rose and
replaced Ilsefranvir upon his back. Placing his one hand upon his left
shoulder, he leaned his head hard towards it and audibly cracked his
neck.
"You and Jack have my assistance, Cyan." was his response. "I have just
as much at stake in this journey as the rest of you. Perhaps more,
though that's debatable."
His eye once more looked to each person in turn, pausing on Leonardo and then to Dorian.
I don't like them... not at all.
The eye flickered for a moment, before he turned, moved towards Jack and stood beside him.
Good for you, Jack. Cyan's 'no secrets' clause works in our favor yet again.
Thinking for a moment, Aaron then directed his attentions towards Fiona.
"My lady, I would also like to speak to you at a later time, once I am
able to confer with Jack and Cyan. I may have an interesting
proposition for you."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Fiona (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Nobody knows exactly what the chimaeric are." a rueful smile, "At least, nobody who will speak to me does."
Fiona slips back into a more serious expression, "Four
times, five now, in the last tweny years they have been caught trying
to infiltrate Circle nations. Always they have been lone
individuals, and we have had to destroy them entirely to eradicate the
threat. Even the smallest part of one can be the seed for a
regeneration. Something we discovered to our cost when we found
the first of them."
"Never before have we discovered any sign of eggs, let alone captured
one. For that achievement alone I must thank you, Master Berd."
She stands then, and starts to pace, a frown creasing her brow, "It is my belief that the one you faced was young and inexperienced. They are not normally so easily defeated."
"There was, however, a second threat here. One which Prince
Dominique and Cyan defeated. The question then comes to mind; were the two connected?
If not, then Amber is fighting a war on two fronts; if they are, then
the threat that Cyan was originally asked to investigate has been
growing for decades."
"I have reached a decision. I want the four agents of Amber here
to join forces with Cyan's picked team, who are also agents in their
own right, and the nearest thing I have to experts in this, to gather
intelligence on these matters, and to halt the enemy's activities
wherever possible. I'm sure I need hardly remind any of you that
a threat to Amber is a threat to everything that exists. I hope
that you will be able to set aside your petty differences and work together on this matter."
Then she stops and speaks directly to Dorian, "You
have no connection to either of the two teams, but I must ask if you
would be prepared to join with them? I have been impressed by
your capabilities and manner, and I am not easily impressed. If
you require monetary reward for doing this, then I would gladly arrange
for it."
"All of you take such time as you need to prepare, and be ready to
leave as soon as you have completed whatever you still have to do
here. If you need anything before you leave, then I will be here
until you go."
"Aaron, what is it you need to see me about?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian leans forward slightly, nodding to Fiona. "I require no reward. I seek only the safety and respect of my family," he says softly, for once the coldness is gone from his voice and demeanor. "And...
as you say, I have no connection to either team, I will accept your
judgement on the question of which team needs me the most." His
gaze grows distant, looking past anything in this world. His emotions
seem caught somewhere between happiness and sadness. Then the cold
exterior settles back onto his face, and it is gone.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
He glanced from Jack to Cyan, and then the people he didn't know, before he responded.
"I feel that it would be more prudent if I was able to speak with you
in private, m'lady. That is, after I am able to join my comrades in
seclusion for a time. If that is alright with you, of course."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
"While joint efforts are good, I think we should split up and
perhaps keep in contant. Mr Jack of Shadows and his girlfriend one way
and Dorian, Leonardo and I going in another and keeping in touch. If
there are two threats, you will need at least two prongs of
investigation and shadow is a huge that we will need to search in many
directions."
I do not trust this Jack anywhere near my back. He blurts out things
without regard for people, he disarms during a threat, and his ego
barely fits the ship
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Forgive me Princess Fiona," Jack jumped in with a
thought. "If we went to check the other world that has an orb within
the Amber circle, and there is a chimaeric there as well. That in and
of it's self would lend credibility towards it being a combined front
rather than separate foes. Though I had been led to belive we would be
working as one group, I will accept what ever you choose. However
it would be best that we at least work together on some professional
level." Other then that he ignored what Kaelyn said.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"And if there is another Chimaeric creature on this other world, it would be wise for us to meet it as a whole."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
The hostility in Kaelyn's voice is fairly obvious to the Bard,
supported by the woman's choice of words. Cyan isn't even
afforded the politeness of her own name. She supposes that Kaelyn
could have done so with Jack, as he referred to her as the 'mercenary
woman' earlier, but this deliberate slap in the face to her, without
any good reason, is confusing and exasperating.
Obviously she has an axe to grind with me as well, though I am unsure to why.
The woman seems to have made up her mind about Cyan without even
knowing her. Well, there is nothing she can do about that.
Cyan shrugs. "I would not be adverse to such a situation.
It becomes apparant that there is too much ill-will to be set aside,"
she states bluntly, seeing no point in beating around the bush any
further. Expedience, indeed.
"Your Highness, there is merit in the words your soldier, Kaelyn,
speaks. Small divisions can easily become large cracks, and these
seem to run very deeply."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Unfortunately, we are more concerned with the safety of Amber than
with the emotional comfort of individual agents in this matter; if
seperation leads to the fall of Amber, it is folly. I think we should
consider what is wisest, instead of what is easiest."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Oh, I agree, Dorian," Cyan notes quietly. "But it is not logical
to depend on a group that holds such rifts. While in a perfect
world people may be capable of setting aside their differences, it is
apparant that is not the case here."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian smiles, cocking his head in thought. "You are correct. This would jeopardize the mission just as effectively, wouldn't it. Pitiful."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Dorian," Jack looked at the dark man "I would be happy to work with
anyone that would be happy to work with me. Heck I don't care if they
are unhappy to work with me in the end as long as they honestly try and
work with me. However if people can not work smoothly together, that
can be more of a threat to sucsess than any beastie. Working together
people can move montains or destroy worlds. Working under dissention
they tend to destroy each other. I can feel the emotional distress and
dislike if not out right hatered rolling off of The
Mercenary. This bodes ill. . ." And fear. . . Anger and hate come from fear.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
It's only with a disciplined effort of will that James keeps from
grinding his teeth down to stumps. So much for the olive
branch. There might be a leaf left somewhere down on the floor
but half the people in the room were intent on jumping up and down on
it.
James heart jumps a bit at Kaelyn's suggestion of splitting the group. Please,
oh, please, let's split. Let's make a clean break and get on with
this, otherwise I'm going to be running into battle with my armour on
backwards.
James doesn't give voice to his feelings, however, preferring to wait on Princess Fiona's decision.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I don't know which of us is 'the mercenary', but if they are a
singular problem, perhaps the others could hold them down while I use
my arts to relieve them of such a burden. After all, the bulk of ones
memories are but a small price to pay for Amber's salvation." This
was as close as Dorian would come to sarcasm. He knew they would never
assent to such a tactic, no matter how logical it might be. "However, it is understandably not an acceptable solution. Therefore, once again, I look to Fiona's wisdom on this."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd yawns, closing his small mouth with a snap. One eye remains
open just a crack to see what's going on. The other stays
shut. He needs his sleep, as always.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn sees her view confirmed that little would get done as a large
group. Looks of distrust, of contempt, of baring information held close
to each person. There would be no trust in this group for each other
either from first attitudes or appearantly long knowing. Communication
betweeen that each can benefit from the experience of the others would
work but she does not trust her back to Jack, Aaron's star shows he
does not trust Leonardo and Dorian, what other betrayals and strife
lurk remain to be seen.
"I had heard this was the case when one gets involved with Amber,
but the city is fair and there is something special about it even if
the royal family is so dangerous even to work for. I have told no one
that I had walked the pattern in secret to keep out of such conflicts
and this fool jack tells everyone.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Fiona (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"ENOUGH!" the psychic shockwaves
of Fiona's whisper do more to still the conversation than the
resounding crash of the solid oak table splitting into two perfect
halves beneath the blade of her bodyguard.
In a more normal, though still quiet, tone of voice, she continues, "Forgive me for not realising that your petty squabbles are actually vastly more important than the fate of everything between Amber and Chaos."
"I have made a decision, and I outrank every one of you, with the possible exception of Prince Mr. Jack of Shadows, but in that case I claim, what I believe is called, home field advantage. You will all work together to maximise the chances that somebody will return with useful information."
"This investigation has already claimed the lives of a number of very
able agents. Eight there were originally, and the Bard, the
drake, and the wolf are the only survivors of those eight."
"Any of you who cannot abide by my decision... well we're only about a
mile off shore, and I believe the sharks are more prone to eating in
the morning. Am I making myself clear?"
"Perhaps I should appoint a commander for this mission? Maybe then you will have less trouble with discipline?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian grimaced, but tried not to show his reaction to the psychic
burst. He'd been expecting an outburst, but not quite so strong. He
slowly scooted his chair away from the table, to give him leg room.
"That would be wise, and I feel it would be more efficient than
letting this group try to act cohesively. Sadly, I think there would
still be some conflicts, though not as many."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Even Jack winced at the force of the psychic
shockwave, then he nodded his acceptance to her. "I would be more than
willing to accept any Leader you choose Princess Fiona." Though his
eyes shifted to James, Andrej and Lastly to Aaron, before comming back
to meet Fiona's again and gave a final nod. A silent suggestion an
aught more
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd comes off Jack's shoulder with what appears to be eight legs, six
wings, and eyes about the size of saucers. The drake shoots
through the air as if fired from a cannon, to disappear behind Cyan's
back.
After a moment, his head pops up from behind her shoulder, craning on
his long neck to peer around the room, glittering orbs still
pop-eyed. The little dragon hiccoughs once, clearing his clogged
throat, and a small puff of purple smoke floats off into the air.
Then his eyes cross slightly, looking at the tip of the sword where it
hangs, rocksteady, in the air.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan jerks at the psychic chastisement, blinking slightly as the table
falls to the ground in two pieces. Then she winces as Berd slowly
climbs up her back. "You...would you...." With a final
grimace, the Bard gives up the whispering and nods to Fiona, Berd's
head coming up beside her own.
"Of course, your Highness. I will abide by whatever decision you
make." She meets the woman's eyes with her own brilliant, emerald
gaze, and waits.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
Lenore's midnight wings flare and her feathers ruffle
making her seem half again as large as she lets out a loud squawk from
her prince's shoulder. The one dark eye glares at Fiona for a moment as
she lets out anouther loud squawk. Turning a blind eye to it all she
started preening a few feathers into place.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej winces at the psychic force of Fiona's whisper, glad he was
leaning against the wall when it happened. He had heard Fiona to be
strong, very strong, in this regard, but now he knew.
Concerned about the animosity between various factions of the group, be
they born of old hatreds or new misunderstandings, he listens to Fiona
chastising them and order them to work together. With that he had no
problem. A leader or commander he also had no problem with. Though a
commander should be really in the know and that limited the choices
quite drastically. He eyed everybody present, not sure whom to prefer.
Anybody could be a good decision, could have abilities, knowledges or
else that might help in their cause.
And here the crux came to the fore. Their cause. As far as he could
tell not everybody was participating in this endeavor for the same
reason. And even Princess Fiona would not be able to command this to
change.
Andrej straightens again, then bows his head once in Fiona's direction.
"I am still at your command, Princess Fiona."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Still standing by Jack, his arms crossed before his chest, Aaron absolutely couldn't believe what was going on.
This is totally ridiculous. Godless insanity, was I this complaintive before I got my senses back? A moment there, Or am I still?
Any other thought was totally smacked out of his head by Fiona's
psychic yell. Even Ilsefranvir yelped in pain, and Aaron caught himself
just to send a gentle resonance her way. He understood the reason for it, and though he'd probably have a headache later on, he certainly thanked Fiona for the break.
Then they were up to who was going to lead. Jack looked to certain people, and then... him?
HA!
Why not? You've seen the orbs and the Archons and
the Chimaeric forces. You know the tasks at hand and you have the
skills, and... dare I say it, the sense, to understand the depth to
this mission. You have friends in Jack and Cyan, but you seem to deal
with others equally, even though you might not like all of them.
How do you know that?
A quiet chuckle. Remember who you're talking to.
Aaron's eye was open now and awaiting Fiona's response. He was left wondering just who was supposed to lead them.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee rocks back on his heels, then stands straight again. He
appears largely unconcerned by the show of power from Fiona, as if it's
something he sees every day. He lives in the Palace of Amber
itself, so maybe it is something he sees every day.
"I might not be as big a talker as some, Lady
Fiona, but you know where my loyalty lies. I owe your family a
lot, and I pay my debts."
"I'll work on this, any way I can."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian looks around the room, wondering why some seem so nervous. It
made sense that a leader might gain some repect from Fiona or other
Elder Amberites, but that couldn't be everyone's motivation. There were
other clear paths. He waited in silence, patiently.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
Leonardo put his hand to his head as he attempted to clear his thoughts from Fiona's fury and he said with a small grin, "Wow...
I could have had a V-8! Thanks for wake up call Your Highness,
though I thought I had it set for eight AM? Well I guess that
effectively ends the "who's got the biggest... power" competition...
game, set and match eh Your Highness?"
Leonardo took a small white plastic bottle out of his coat pocket and
popped a pair of pills from it. He then looked around at the
group and asked in a friendly tone, "Tylenol Extra Strength anyone? Never leave your Shadow without it!"
If anyone takes him up on the offer, Leonardo tosses them the bottle as
he has extras elsewhere. He then smiles in a warm and friendly
way at Jack as he says in a calm, self-assured tone, "Now
Jack...or are we back to His Highness as Princess Fiona has stated... I
never really can tell with you. But regardless, you know you
really should ask people before revealing their secrets... you never
know WHO is listening. After all... what if the Enemy still has
ears? For instance, I notice you make no mention of Aaron's
Pattern use... but then that might lead to questions of his origins,
which, by their conspicuous absence in his introduction, he might
prefer to leave unstated.
Of course, you could say that Her Highness provides all the protection
we need... but then this Enemy has shown surprising resourcefulness
considering that he's managed to get so much done without being noticed
by the Amber Powers-That-Be. Also if Her Highness did not detect
the shapeshifter until after all hell broke loose in this City, perhaps
the Enemy knows how to shield his agents from Her Highness's renown...
and ably demonstrated... mastery of the mind?
Also you really should be more careful about the assumptions you make,
for instance... be wary of telling another Shadow-Walker about what he
can and cannot do... or rather what you think are the limitations of
another’s power. Also it is unwise to make threats... well let's
say claims, which cannot be backed up with fact. It will throw
all your statements into question, even the ones that are true.
For instance you are correct that the breaks are healing... you however
are quite wrong about being able to easily "read" me and you know that.
As for my talent with your precious Broken Pattern, it should come as
no surprise to you since I mentioned it long ago when you and Cyan
demanded "the truth, the full truth and nothing but the truth".
But I understand, you have been through a lot in pursuing the Enemy and
no doubt some of the side effects of being captured by the Enemy and
tortured for information are the occasional black-out and/or memory
loss. So I won't hold it against you if you have forgotten my
earlier admissions. But that is not really the Big Issue at stake for the moment."
Leonardo turned back to Fiona, bowed and said in a polite and respectful tone, "You
Highness, the call for Leadership has been made and in the final
analysis whether it be seven or nine... that is simply too many for
quick decisions to be made. However I believe you will run into
similar problems with only one person chosen as leader... not to
mention generating considerable dissention among those who feel they
are not represented.
I have a plan that I believe might work. It seems to me that
there are three clearly distinct and unique composed groups who each
have a stake of one sort or another in this War against The
Enemy. The first group is made up of those who have been serving
Amber's interests for awhile now and have the most experience against
The Enemy... let us call them "The Old Amber Agents". The second
group is made up of people who have much more formalized ties to Your
Highness and are clearly acting on behalf of Amber but are relatively
new to this fight... let us call them "The New Amber Agents".
Finally there is a group who has joined the fight against The Enemy for
their own reasons and have no clear connection or tie to Amber nor are
they beholden personally to Your Highness... let us call them "The
Independents".
The Old Amber Agents are of course: His Highness Jack of Shadows, the
Bard Cyan and perhaps... perhaps Aaron though his status is the hardest
to declare. The New Amber Agents are clearly: Kaelyn, James,
Andrej and Jonnee. The Independents as has been pointed out by
more than one person here are: Dorian and myself and again perhaps
Aaron.
I suggest that a Leadership Council of sorts be formed, a Triumvirate
if you will. One Leader chosen from each group so that all may be
represented with a degree of equality and no one person has absolute
dictatorial power. I further suggest that each aspect of battle
and conflict be represented by one member of this Leadership Council.
My suggestions for Leaders would be: Cyan, James and Dorian. They
would each represent their Group and they each represent skill in arms,
raw strength, magical talent and the ability to endure hardships.
Each has shown in their own way a willingness to take charge or step in
when they felt matters required their guidance. James’s attempt
at establishing rapport, Cyan’s attempt at establishing etiquette and
Dorian’s attempt at establishing expediency. I know Cyan to be
more diplomatic than some and James has shown a preference for
peacemaking and finally Dorian has shown a willingness to set aside
personal concerns for the higher goal.
There are of course others who could be chosen but I feel they would
not bring as much to the Leadership Council or perhaps their
independence or prior ties to other groups might overshadow their
selection… or there may be a bit too much bad blood which would
interfere with the decision making efficiency of this Triumvirate.
Well that is my suggestion and I’m sure others will have issues with it
but I ask you to please give it due consideration before being
persuaded to abandon outright.”
Leonardo rose from his bow again and took out his silver cigarette case
as he looked to Fiona’s “bodyguard” and asked in a pleasant tone, ”I didn’t notice any postings but is this a No Smoking vessel or are we free to indulge?”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian does his best to appear patient and attentive while Leonardo speaks.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“Well perhaps much easier to read was an
exaggeration,” Jack said with an easy smile “Still easier to read
is accurate.” He snapped his eyebrows up and down quickly
“I am both Jack of Shadows and a
prince Leon, one and the same. I won’t waste words-“ Jack paused “I
myself would hesitate to pick a mission leadership by delegation, it
sounds good enough. Sometimes though decisions must be made
quickly and finally, not debated. I would prefer one person that would
listen to the people around them when they are reasonable, but also not
hesitate to pick a direction when it was needed.”
“Then again I myself have left the choice to
Princess Fiona since she has the home field advantage. Lastly you
missed something completely, I am Jack of Shadows not because of shadow
forms. I am Jack of Shadows because I am now here representing those
worlds you call shadows. So I am more of an independent then you may
knew. I just have no compulsions about working with Amber, “ Jack gave
a shrug “Or chaos, or anyone that is reasonable to stop the
enemy. As for secrets. . . I apologize, but if you must all play cloak
and dagger, and carry on so in other ways. You know, people act up,
cause problems. I tell their secrets and no more problems. You notice I
didn’t mention Jonnee’s powers and I won’t. The only reason I mentioned
Andrej’s and James are that they didn’t seem the types to really mind
and it counter pointed The mercenary’s and Dorian’s.”
He looked between James and Andrej, “Sorry for
outing you gentlemen. I’m generally good about keeping my mouth shut
with secrets, as Leo said I once shattered my one mind to keep secrets
and protect my crew. I’m still recovering from that over all.”
Settling back down in a chair he smiled “Of course
we could always nominate and elect a leader.” his blue eyes came back
to Fiona. “What do you think You Highness? Most of us have said we will
back your choice. Others. . . Well.”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
At Leonardo's mention of his powers, Aaron merely let on a half-smile.
Oh, this Leonardo talked a good game, but when he was cornered he
immediately jumped for the conclusions he thought would do the most
harm.
Well, good for him. Now that everyone else thought they knew what he
was capable of, they could go along with that and start considering who
he was related to. That, in and of itself, would be amusing.
Good for him also, that Leonardo opened himself up to scrutiny. Aaron
was sure that others in the group would look at Leonardo twice before
telling him anything at all... which might prove to be a problem later
on.
And finally, they went back to the lengthy point of leadership.
His eye narrowing in thought, Aaron pursed his lips and remained quietly attentive.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn just waits for the moment for Fiona to speak. The next words by
Fiona will shape how she reacts to the mission. So far, only leonardo
shows sense of those that seemed the older group and this Jack is about
as arrogant, offensive and untrustworthy as every tale she has heard
about the elder Amberites and why she has keep quiet about herself.
Then again, a dagger can silent an unworthy commander as easily as any
other enemy.
"The triumvariate makes the most sense though I think that James, Dorian and Aaron would make a better trio."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian's eyes sweep from Leonardo to Kaelyn and then to Fiona. Although
he could comment on the Triumvirate suggestion, particularly on his
appointment as an independent, he keep his mouth firmly closed, his
lips pressed together. If they talk to much more, there will likely be
another psychic outburst and this one not so harmless. Reflecting on
Leonardo's long dialogue, Dorian says, "Excellent idea's; however, I'm sure Fiona's decision will be the best, if we would but give her a moment to decide and speak." No doubt, she has already processed these ideas and many more before
they had even opened their mouths. If not, it mattered little, she was
probably simultaneously reading all of their minds right now and
processing the groups own ideas much faster than they were speaking
them.
He had been raised from youth on a world where psychic power and
sorcery were the authority. It had been years since the superior one
had not been him, but the memories were fresh enough to know when to
let the superior mind rule.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
<Backpost>
James takes little part in the conversation. It's apparent at
least to him that the discussion will have to run its course to its,
probably unpleasant, conclusion - unless Princess Fiona...
James winces. He doesn't have the mental control of some of the
others and without a chance to erect proper barriers, Fiona's psychic
rebuke makes it feel like his brain is playing pinball inside his
skull. The closest comparison that came to mind was an artillery
bombardment.
"As Your Highness pleases." James tone makes it clear that this is not merely politeness but an indication of his willingness to follow her orders.
</Backpost>
James eyebrows raise sharply at the mention of his name as a potential leader, possibly speculation, more likely alarm. "I agree with Jack in that, from a combat point of view, a single leader would be better."
"I would recommend Andrej, but I agree with Dorian that Princess Fiona
should decide. If we vote for our leader it will only reinforce
existing animosities, especially for those who 'lose' the vote.
The leader needs to be appointed by someone whose authority we all
respect and who has some degree of independence from our disagreements."
"For my part, Princess Fiona, I don't want the job."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Fiona (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Very well. Since you seem incapable of
deciding this for yourselves, I shall make my own views on this clear,
and select a leadership for you." Fiona closes her eyes for a moment before looking from face to face around the room as she speaks.
"I do not like the idea of three leaders.
Committee's seldom work quickly, and a tripod is the least stable
structure, at least in politics, which is what such an arrangement would come to in the end. It always does."
"Nor do I like the idea of a mission of this importance being in the
hands of a single person. If anything happened to that person,
then the remainder of the group would find themselves leaderless again,
and would doubtless go through all of this rhetoric and disagreement
again."
"My own preference is a single leader, with an appointed deputy.
As to who that leader will be...? There is one here who has
impressed me with clarity of vision, strength of purpose." a glance at Jonnee, then Kaelyn, Cyan, and Jack.
"The leader will be... "
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack smiled a playfully wicked grin at
Princess Fiona’s sense of drama, he himself never could resist drama
and appreciated seen the flair. Not worried that she would choose him,
he sat back and simply continued with his work fixing things in the
world. Goatta get da fix in, heh! The time it would take to complete getting this ball rolling really
well was not getting any shorter. Still listening to the Amber
princes as was proper, not to mention he was curious who she would
choose. Cyan, Jonnee, or Kaelyn?
He had already been considering a second in command perspective and respected her choice. Checks and balances, without debate. She was showing savvy, then again she couldn’t afford not to. Though
who I would chose for a second and if the second or commander would
deal more with the crew would depend on who is picked for the leader.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Fiona (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
"... Aaron."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej looks at the mentioned new leader of the group with a half frown, then nods in acceptance.
***A good choice? Unknown. We will see.***
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Well chosen, your highness," Cyan states quietly. I think.
This 'new', older Aaron has something the younger one lacked.
Patience and perception. He obviously no longer looks inward -
instead, he looks outwards. He no longer speaks whatever random
thought leapt into his head; instead, he lets others do that for him,
and listens.
A fine choice indeed. Assuming their little talk goes well. Well,
if it doesn't, I shall merely have to allow him to lead with the best
grace possible. Obviously Princess Fiona chose him for a reason.
Appraising sapphire eyes turn towards Aaron, and she looks to him for a
long moment, studying the man. "Well, yes," the Bard whispers
quietly. "We do trust Ilse...and if that is what she says...." Berd, crawling up on her shoulder, nods slowly.
Standing, Cyan bows. "Congratulations, Aaron." Her eyes
twinkle slightly as she straightens. "I think...you have your
work cut out for you." Berd, fumbling under his wing, comes out
with...a small plate. There's a tiny square on it, with some kind
of fruit filling, and a burning (burning?) candle atop it.
Grinning from non-existant ear to non-existant ear, the little dragon
holds it out towards Aaron on the end of his tail.
"Berd!" Cyan hisses in exasperation.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron, the unknown of those associated with Cyan and Jack but he
appears to have some restraint and control so it will take time to see
what qualities he has. She waits to see what he says and where things
go next.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack smile broadens a bit at Fiona’s bait
and switch, and a chuckle escapes his lips. “Congratulation’s Aaron, my
skills are at your disposal. Though I feel for you having to bear the
burden of command, better you then I. ” He had felt the
difference in this man compared to the man who had left some time ago.
If nothing else the Amber man had show a constant steady growth.
“Should I continue with what I am working on Boss man, or do you have a
task for me?”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee walks forward, Hunter close beside him, and circles Aaron once
without speaking, his eyes travelling up and down the man.
Finally he stands before him, almost nose-to-nose. He inhales
sharply, twice, then tilts his head to one side, staring straight into
Aaron's empty socket.
"Bitching scar, Man. Remind me to show you mine some time. Tiger shark tried to take my leg, just here." He clamps his hands around his right thigh, about half way up from the knee, then straightens up again, grinning.
"I had to fight it off with nothing but what Momma Nature gave me. Had to kill it to make it let go."
"Anyways, here's the deal, Oh Fearless Leader. As long as you're
working for Amber, I'll cover your back. If you turn against her,
then it'll be Show and Tell time, and the subject will be: How Jonnee Kay Deals With Sharks. Clear?"
He leans closer and whispers something close to Aaron's ear, before backing away from him.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian's eyes sweep across Aaron, taking him in. He knows as little
about this one, as he does the others, but the man appears to be solid.
He seems to be the least involved in the bickering and banter.
Dorian leans forward, giving him a polite bow and nod, wordlessly. He
trusts Fiona, for reasons of his own choosing, and therefore he can
accept working under this man, until he proves otherwise. ”I am ready to begin,” he says.
Then his eyes flicker back towards Fiona, lingering there in concentration for a moment.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack can not help but let out a short bark
of laughter that he quickly stifles at Jonnee’s comment “Aggro Dude.”
Jack says giving a thumbs up. “I can see why Kali liked you.”
That statement was almost Chunchee if not for the surfer talk.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Don't say it...
I told you so.
He forced himself not to grumble, not towards everyone else, but rather
his faithful bladed comrade. Waving a hand to Berd, he smiled slightly.
"No, wise drake. You may eat it."
Jonnee got considerably close to him. Uncomfortably was more the word, but the smile turned into a smarter sort of grin when the man finished his statement.
"I'd expect nothing less. I say that to you lot, also." he continues,
extending his perceptions to the rest of the group. "Amber is at stake,
yes, but uncountable masses are also endangered by our mutual enemies.
It is for all of our safety that I have pledged to fight this battle."
He stepped forwards and looked to Fiona, bowing his head graciously.
"My lady, I thank you for the privilege. I will do my best to lead this group in the most efficient manner possible."
And then he started singling people out. His eyes first settled upon the man he had fought beside, back within the tower.
"Andrej, you're my second in command. Anything and everything we do
will be discussed between you and I. I give you permission to consider
whatever ideas you have with the rest of the group, unless extenuating
circumstances don't allow it. However, every final decision will be
made by me alone."
His single eye narrowed, and he stepped back to get a good look at
everyone in the group. Man, being half-blind certainly limited your
perception.
However, his perceptions extended far beyond the mere visual.
"We are all in this for one reason: survival. Our enemies do not take
our efforts lightly, not at all, and because of that we are both a danger, to them, and in danger because of them. I have seen what their intentions are, and I refuse to let them continue. Here and now I say, I will not stop until they are laid to waste!"
The blade was out faster than anyone else thought a one-handed man
could unsheath such a weapon. At the end of his sentence, he snapped
Ilsefranvir, the blade seperating into eight pieces for only a moment
before reconnecting with a "clang!" Just as fast, it was re-sheathed.
He turned to Jack and simply nodded. "I know your intentions and
understand your skills. Do what must be done, but please, be careful."
Finally, a tired sounding sigh escaped him, and Aaron's shoulders
slumped heavilly. With a look to each person in turn, he chuckled.
"We're all the same when it comes to physical needs. I say all of us
take a rest off of our feet and enjoy the ride for a while." Looking to
Andrej, he nodded once. "That's an order. Also, I need to get
information from Cyan and Jack if I am to be totally up to date
regarding the efforts of our enemies." A pause, to let that sink in,
then:
"If you absolutely need to speak with me during the meeting, you may find me within the ship."
That final line seemed to allow for no argument, and he again looked to Fiona with a nod of the head.
"With your leave, my lady?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian arcs an eyebrow at the flashing steel. These
people sure do love to play with sharp things. I wonder what the
purpose of that can possible be; maybe is has some kind of symbolic
meaning.
He glances at Fiona, as if waiting for something, and remains in his seat.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James looks pensive, stepping forward he says, to Aaron but with voise pitched to carry to everyone, "Sorry Aaron, before you go... This isn't really my style and in many ways I agree with Jonnee's feelings." He pauses. "Sorry,
didn't mean to start like that. What I am about to do, I do of my
own free will - not because I expect any of you to copy me, but because
in the present circumstances I think it necessary."
Abruptly he kneels before Aaron, draws his sword by the forte of the blade and offers the hilt to Aaron.
"Aaron, for as long as you are our appointed leader
and for as long as you are fit to lead I promise to obey your orders
without question, whatever you may ask of me."
He turns his head to look at Andrej, "If for whatever reason, Aaron is unfit to lead, that pledge passes to you."
He stands and takes back his sword. He is smiling self-consciously as he says, "That's as melodramatic as I'm going to get, promise."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I have one question. Why are we not all getting told what is going on
and what knowledge there is. IF there is the danger that we were warned
about, it would be lost if the three of you perish if only you know
it." Kaelyn is firm in her tone of voice.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
After James finished his heartfelt pledge
Jack smiled and replied to Aaron. He hunched forward and squinked
up “Yeth Mathtur!” Dragging his leg like it was lame a couple of
steps until he could sit down in a chair he nodded to
Aaron. It was so good to get the feeling of the weight of
responsibility off of his back. He could relax and let someone else
deal with much of this garbage now. “Unlike James, I don’t know about
following you unquestioningly, after all the unquestioned life is not
worth living. But you know I got your back Aaron, and I’ll work with
you however I can. Though I suppose this means I can’t tease you much
any more, might undermine your authority.”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan smiles thinly as Jonnee makes his loyalties known. And there
it is, that cold lethality she sensed in him, cloaked and hidden,
corkscrewing up to the surface for a moment before burying itself
again. That one...his mind is a blade, sheathed in fuzzy wool and bright bangles. But his loyalties are obviously not to be questioned, and he was a friend, a good friend, of Kalika's.
A man can be deadly, and still be a good one. She recalls a few people she knew from back in the old country, and nods to herself.
Dorian, of course, makes do with a single phrase. As expected.
Berd, having been given permission by their glorious leader, eats the
candle. After a moment's reflection, he eats the cake and sits
there crunching on the saucer while Aaron speaks.
Cyan blinks when the blade is drawn, nodding slightly when it is replaced. Some of the old Aaron seems to have survived. Andrej's posting as his second makes perfect sense to her after a moment's reflection.
Then comes the surprise. The quiet one, the careful one, steps
forward and offers Aaron his blade. Berd silences himself, the
plate disappearing and the little dragon sitting up on Cyan's shoulder
as she smiles, watching the man give his pledge. It's impressive,
the moreso due to its brevity and the nature of the man - this is one
who does not do such things lightly, and the impact is all the
greater. A man to stand beside on the walls, the Bard thinks. And
he makes a fine point - something is required of us, a recognition so
that there can be no confusion later on, no claims of independance,
nobody splitting hairs and saying 'I swore no oath'. She,
herself, would not bother with such games - it is the spirit of the
agreement that drives Cyan, not the letter. But if one of us is to do this, then it should be all.
"Melodrama? Hardly, James," Cyan says quietly when James is done
and Jack gives his own agreement. "True emotion and purpose is
never melodrama, and you set an example we could all do to
follow. Aaron, Fiona has my oath to finish this quest. You
are her appointed leader - thus, the oath I swore binds me to
you. I stand ready for your orders." She bows again, more
deeply, Berd hooking claws into silk to keep his balance.
Jonnee has already spoken in his own, unique way.
Turning, Cyan glances at the other red-haired woman. "There are
personal issues I must discuss with Aaron, of a more private
nature. After that, I have no objections to sharing our side of
the story with everyone, should Aaron so request. I have little
doubt that he will."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Fiona (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Fiona relaxes visibly as the various members of the group show their
support for her chosen leader, each in their own way. "well, now that's settled, I'm going back to my cabin. Aaron, before your meeting, you will escort me there."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
The edges of Dorian's lips curl in the slightest smile as he gives
Fiona a tiny nod. His eyes linger on hers for a moment longer, before
he rises. "It is decided we are to rest, then? How long before we meet and where may I rest?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej bows his head in acceptance as Aaron nominates him his second in
command. His voice is suitably grave and solemn, though a slight
twinkle is in his eye, unreadable.
"I accept this nomination and will do my utmost to support you and the cause we are all together in."
He also accepts James pledge with a nod.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
His eye fell on James, considering. He was so tired, and one thing kept kicking him in the back of the mind, almost distracting him completely.
He knew he'd get that thing done as soon as possible though, so he focused his attentions on the here and now.
So again, his eye fell on James. Placing his hand on the man's left shoulder, he smiled.
"The more humble part of me would ask you not to swear. However, our
fight is together, and the more people I know I can trust, the less I
have to worry about. I accept your declaration, and more importantly,
agree with it. Especially the portion about Andrej taking command should any misfortune befall myself."
Jack, Cyan, he had their assistance. That was a huge leap,
at least for him personally. Strangers weren't as hard to woo as those
who had seen your worst points already. Thank God for the both of them.
Lowering his hand, his eye then found Kaelyn. An unclouded intelligence
burned behind his gaze, and he stared at the woman as if trying to
burrow through her.
"Your question is a good one. However, you must understand, the
particulars that I wish to share with Cyan and Jack..." he chuckled,
shaking his head. "Well, some of them are unnecessarry to the group.
This conversation between us has been growing for some time, and it
needs to be finished here and now."
A pause, as if in thought.
"However, as I reconsider my statement," and then he looked to Andrej
and raised a hand. "I believe it would be better if my second joined
Cyan, Jack and myself in the meeting. After all, as my second in
command, he should have unrestricted access to all of the information
released within. Some of that information is useless, but there's more
that isn't."
The tiredness he had exhibited mere moments before had disappeared,
being replaced by a sort of controlled strength. It wasn't physical,
just... a feeling around him.
"I expect every person, and I mean every person, to
contribute equally to this cause. I don't care whether some of you have
something against someone else here. If you're thinking about some
slight you think someone did to you right before we get into battle, and it can happen, I'll have to deal with a possibly unstable situation. If anyone
here has a problem with someone, come to me, the master of Problems
Between the Party, and we'll take care of it if the time allows."
Exhaling, Aaron cleared his mind and got himself back on track. For some reason, he just felt he had needed to get that out.
"Andrej, again, you may join us in the meeting. I'd appreciate it if I could get to know you bettter."
Again his eye found Kaelyn, and the single raised eyebrow was as much a
question as the one he inquired. "Is that suitable enough for you?"
Actually, it wasn't a question. It was a demand.
He looked to Dorian and the unquestionable look on his face softened
into a smile. "I'm afraid I don't know this ship well enough to tell
you where to rest. I'm sure there must be cabins, however, and if you
merely ask, someone on the ship should give you a hand finding them."
And then he was offering his hand to Fiona.
"After you, my Lady."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian nods wordlessly. There was much talk of trust, but trust was
something earned, and not spoken. How could an imprompty ceremony have
such meaning to them?
Gripping his crooked staff, he turns and heads towards the door, and then pauses.
"Concerning loyalty," he begins slowly. "I agree it is
important that you can trust all of us; however, I feel words are just
words, and vows are broken more often than kept, at least where I come
from. My loyalty is with Amber, and thus it is with Fiona. Not only
because she serves Amber, and her loyalties are clear in this matter,
but because I am in her debt on a personal matter of great worth to me.
If Fiona says that I am to follow your word, then I follow your word.
That is all the assurance I can give. If you have any further questions
about my loyalty, perhaps you should ask Fiona and see if she trusts me
or not."
Without needing a reply, he turns and leaves the meeting room, his black cloak swirling in his wake.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
Relieved that his promise had been accepted in the spirit in which it
was offered, James merely shrugs as Dorian makes his way out of the
room. It's not that he had anything against the black-clad man,
it's just that they had completely different ways of operating.
James walks to a corner of the room that isn't already occupied with
furniture or equipment, something not always easy to find on a ship. "This'll do me fine." He sits down, arranges his scabbard so it's not digging into his hip and leans his head back. "I'll be here if you need me."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn watches Aaron but time will prove whether he has mettle. "You
are givig the orders at the moment." There is the implication that this
could change if he screws up.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack sat in the chair across the room from
most of the others, his cloak pulled around him as he quietly worked in
the back ground on the task. After Kaelyn’s comment he
glanced to a bowl of apples on a table at the far end of the room,
reaching out from under his cloak with a hand.
A flash of unseen psychic energy bust from
him and he held the meat of an apple in his outstretched hand, just the
meat of the fruit. On the table one of the Apples slowly collapsed in
upon it’s self, the skin now left perfect and empty except for the
core. Silently he broke the skinless coreless fruit in half and
offered half to Cyan with a smile.
Turning his attention to James and Asked “So why I work and we wait,
let’s pass the time by swapping stories. What’s your story Amber Man?
For that matter what Are all of your stories? Jonnee? . . Andrej? . . .
Kaelyn???”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Indeed, Cyan thinks. The air must be cleared, one way
or another. And it is a wise decision that he invites Andrej
along - now we will see how much Aaron has changed.
She has a good feeling. But good feelings are only that - Aaron
has a few things to explain. Fiona has appointed him, and that is
enough to make him leader. But before Cyan is willing to
completely trust him, despite her hopeful outlook, they're going to
have a talk.
His instruction to all of them, and evidently to Kaelyn, about how to
deal with problems within the group is another good decision. Bad
feelings fester, like a boil. They must be lanced, and opened to
air, in order for them to heal. True, it may leave a scar, but
better a scar than an infection that kills.
"We should wait here, Aaron, with James, while you escort the
Princess," Cyan notes, for obviously Fiona wishes to speak to him
alone. Dorian's comments come as no surprise, especially from his
description of where he grew up. For Cyan, coming from a place
where your word is your bond, things are different. For a man or
woman to break their word in her culture would hold serious
repercussions - ostracism, even exile to live, branded and outlawed, by
one's wits. And even bandits would avoid such scum, for who could
trust a stranger who broke their word? Only under the most
drastic of situations might it be considered 'acceptable', and even
then...well, exile would likely be the result for the oathbreaker,
without the brand. They would have to start again, elsewhere.
In her culture, words have power. What someone says can be a
harbinger of their future actions, their future behaviour. They
are not to be taken lightly.
Having walked the Worlds for some time, though, she does understand
that all Worlds are different, in many ways. Dorian has his own
ways, and she can respect that. So long as they do not cross
hers, or hers cross his. Well...should that be the case, we might find some way to meet in the middle.
But that phrase, that single, solitary description of where he grew
up...it sheds light on the darkness that is the mysterious man. Perhaps
he has good reason for being guarded, if that is where he struggled to
reach adulthood. Perhaps he has good reason to hold emotion in
disdain, for it would only be a handle his enemies could grip.
Perhaps he knows loss...loss of innocence, at an early age. Sorrow for the man, but not pity - pity would be something he could never, ever accept.
Nor would Cyan give it to one who had survived such a travail. Not pity, but a certain, guarded respect.
Kaelyn's comment has an eyebrow cocking above a ruby eye, but Cyan
keeps her silence. She takes the apple from Jack with a grin,
dropping to her haunches beside him. "I rather like the core,
Jack of Shadows. Bitter to some, but I have learned that in life,
the bitter makes the sweet that much richer." She bites into the
fruit with relish.
"Sometimes, though, it's best just to have the sweet." Smiling, the Bard, still crouching, leans on Kirilinde and waits to see what the others will say.
Berd shoots a look to Aaron...or rather, to a certain object on Aaron's body.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“I think we have earned a bit of sweet.”
Jack breaks his half in half again, offering a quarter up to Berd,
before reaching out and wiping away a bit of juice from the corner of
Cyan’s mouth. “I’ll remember that next time Cyan.” He couldn’t
help smiling and crinkling his nose at her. “Besides, sweets to
the sweet as they say. Even if the sweet can be as deadly as the
bitterest of bitter almond extract. ”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
Lenore snatched the last quarter
of apple spearing it with her beak and hopped down from Jack’s
shoulder with her stolen prize after pecking his ear. Wings
spreading out for an instant to control her landing. She dropped the
fruit to the floor and put a black claw on it to hold it in place,
before she started picking it apart she looked at he man through her
good eye, daring him to try and take it back. The she fell on it
greedily.
She knew the truth, the sweetest fruit was someone else’s , but only once you had taken it from them.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd stares at Lenore for a long moment, absently reaching out one claw
and depositing half his quarter back in Jack's hand (an eighth
each...though Berd's is a hair bigger). His glittering eyes study
the raven as he chews on the apple thoughtfully.
Evidently thinking better of any rash actions, he curls up in a ball, glittering eyes almost closing. Almost.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Kaelyn turns and leaves the room, making a point of not turning her
back to JAck as she leaves him and heads further into the ship to her
quarters. Once there she adds her 9th dagger and conceals a new arsenal
of shuriken about her person, more than one series of shots. She is
preparing for total war whether from the foul jack or more of these
shape changers.
One sure that her armaments are in place, she insures the door to the
cabin is locked and begins to focus on the pattern, to work on her
relationship with it and understand it more greatly and its touching
the world around her. She will take the time to learn and understand as
only a matching power will deal with that Jack. A dagger in the back
would work but she would prefer to defeat him with a greater power.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack notes how Kaelyn
dances and maneuvers herself to keep her front to him as she
leaves. After she has stepped out the door he shakes his head, a look
of pity crossing his face. “That one has some problems, doesn’t
she? Heck she’s down right afraid of me with no good reason.” He looked
to Cyan “Did you see the way she danced around to keep her front to me
as she was leaving., as if I would waste my attacking her from the
back.”
“Even without all of you here I have
no reason to attack her, even as vicious and tempered as she seems. I
take that back, with the treat of killing me I may be able to justify a
reason if I were that kind of person. I have no desire to kill her no
matter how ill behaved she has been so far.” He chewed his lip and
looked down “I hope and pray she grows up and rights herself before he
makes a bad mistake and forces someone to have no choice but to do
something they may regret.” With a last shake of his head he spoke in a
thoughtful whisper, “So afraid. . .”
He took the piece of apple from Berd “Thank you master Drake,” Jack
smiled but his heart was not quite in it, still feeling pity for the
woman that had retreated.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
With a final nod to Cyan, Aaron simply waited until Fiona was ready.
However, he did eye Kaelyn with a firm gaze, knowing she was paying
more attention to Jack than to him.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Fiona (NPC)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Fiona takes Aaron's arm and walks with him, out of the door. Her
guard follows at a discreet distance, and closes the door behind him
after a final glare around the room.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Okay! Now the Olds are out of the way, what say we have a party?"
Jonnee removes his leather jacket, exposing an intricately complex
geometric tattoo across the whole of his right upper arm, and drops it
on the floor. He slides down the wall to squat next to it and
starts toying with one of the bright steel rings in his left ear.
"I'll tell you my story. I don't care who knows I grew up on the wrong side of the tracks."
"Place where I lived, Las Angelos, weren't nothing like Amber, or
Cadiniagart. We had machines, cars, TVs, cel-phones, all that
crap. Me and my bro were in good with the toughest gang in the
whole city, so it was natural that we pledged to them. Man, those
were good times. We owned a big part of the West Side, and about
a mile of good beach. Party and rumble all night, catch waves all
day."
"One day, 'bout two years back, everything changed. My bro and me
were at my place, and this guy walks in, cool as you like, says he's
called Kessler, and he wants to hire us for a hit. At first we
told him no way, but we were young and full of it, and he talked us
round."
"Next thing we knew, we woke up in a car, with an envelope full of
green, two guns, and a map. Oh yeah, and we both had some fresh
ink."
Jonnee taps the tattoo on his arm. He fishes a tin out of his
jacket pocket, opens it, and starts rolling a cigarette.
"So we drove over there. It was way out of
town, and right aways I knew something was going on. The country
got real strange and wild, and folks didn't look right, and once there
was two moons. Now, my bro, Lil Bobbee, he was freaking out, but
I was cool with it. I used to watch that show with the pointy
eared dude, so I knew a bit about parallel dimensions and stuff like
that. I figured that I was having the biggest adventure of my
life. I mean, travelling to another world, what a rush."
The flare of a match, and he takes a long drag on the cigarette.
"Problem is we gets to the place it shows on the
map, and the hit, guy named Merlin, got the drop on us somehow.
Lil Bobbee wound up dead, and I woke up tied to a chair. Seems
Merlin was a sight tougher than we was told."
"So he's questioning me, and he has more visitors, but this time
they're buddies of his. Turned out that we weren't the first sent
to kill him. There was a war of some sort going on, and Merlin
was an important target for some reason."
"These friends of his talked me into leading them back to Las
Angelos. Well, I had no problem with that, I wanted to have a
talk with Kessler 'bout not warning us just what a badass Merlin is,
and they wanted to talk to him too. I said I'd take them home,
just so long as they let me have Kessler when they finished with him."
Jonnee reaches out and ruffles Hunter's fur with his left hand, "That's when I met you and Kalika, isn't it, Ol' Pup?"
"We gets back to Las Angelos, and it's all different. Seems I was
away for thirty years, or maybe more, in the four days it took me to do
that run for Kessler. Everybody I knew was likely dead, and the
turf where I used to run was under the sea. There'd been a big
quake, about a year after I left, hit at like 4:38 in the morning, so
lots of people killed in bed."
"I signed up for the war right then. I had nowhere else to go."
"Long story short, we caught up with Kessler, and his boss, some big
machine called Brand, and we dumped them both in the Abyss, but I got
to have some fun with Kessler first, so that was pretty cool."
"Then I came to Amber with some of the others, and 'cause I helped in
the war, one of the Princes, Cain, set me up with a crib. Now I
got a home again, and I get to do exciting stuff all the time."
He grinds the cigarette out in the palm of his hand and gives a slighty crazed grin, "And th-th-th-that's all folks."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack listened to Jonnee’s story with
a casual interest and curiosity that was real to the core. “You would
kill anyone or destroy anything that was in your eyes a threat to
Amber’s interest, wouldn’t you Jonnee?” There was no malicious intent
in the question, just Jack’s curiosity and desire to understand
people. “Would you destroy a country to protect their
interest? Would you cause an earthquake that sends a city into a sea?
What about kill an innocent?” There was nothing accusing in Jacks tone,
he was not grilling the shadow man, just trying to understand who he
was working with up front.
Jack was tempted to ask the man for a smoke, even after a century without it was a temptation.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan stares inquisitively after Kaelyn as she leaves. The woman
could not be more transparent if she tried. Turning, Cyan glances
at Jack as the man speaks. "Problems? I fear she is mad,
Jack. To think that you would toss a dagger at her back because
you stole her blade to keep her from harming Hunter...the only one who
has thrown a weapon was her. And on Fiona's ship, in front of
everyone else...." The Bard shakes her head, touching Jack on the
arm with a smile. "Her sense of...proportion is lacking.
Let it go."
With a shrug she turns back to Jonnee Kay, laughing with delight at his
opening, mercurical mood shifting as quickly as always. Someone who does not have to be cajoled and wheedled to give their own story!
Jonnee's story matches the man, though. As Berd studies the
tattoos with obvious fascination Cyan listens to Jonnee speak with
fascination in her emerald eyes. Just like him. Casual, even amusing...with an underlayer of darkness.
This man is dangerous, and for more reasons that the fact that he can
apparantly run faster than she can fall. Cyan feels, judging by
his movements, than unless he is hiding much of his skill and other
tricks, she could out-fight him. But there is a core of
lethality, of deadly purpose to the man that she lacks. Every
hint speaks of barely restrained violence, carefully leashed, like a
half-tamed wolf, ready to spring at Jonnee's command.
It is...impressive. And not a little frightening.
"Jonnee," she begins, "I'm glad to see that Hunter has found you.
Kalika was...dear to us. Very dear. The news was
crushing. In truth, she died as she lived, and made an enormous
difference - she found acceptance with her people at last, and a
purpose. But for us, that does not change the simple feeling of
loss at her death."
Cyan sighs. She doesn't know what she would do if Kalika returned
- how could she step aside, with regards to Jack? But had the
woman never left...well, this would never be. Jack would still be
with her, and likely happier.
For that, she would have had no regrets. Now, yes. Had
things not changed...it would have been enough to see both of them
happy together. Painful, but enough.
Then she rears back a little, and punches Jack (lightly) in the
arm. "Such serious questions! Leave them for late nights
and fires - we shall have that soon enough."
"So you are a regular...Agent of the Crown?" Cyan inquires of Jonnee,
raising one eyebrow. "And what of you others?" Cyan asks,
glancing around at James and Andrej.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“My sentiments exactly Cyan,” Jack reached
over and rested a hand on the bards shoulder. “She was expecting a
dagger in the back because she is the type to put one in other peoples
back.” Jack shook his head again in disbelief, it was hard for
him to truly understand people that were like that. His attention came
back to Jonnee as he reached out and massage Cyan’s shoulders.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee chuckles and shakes his head, "Not a regular agent, no. I have a few - problems - with bosses if I don't respect them."
"Cain asked me if I'd help out on this one though. Reckoned I had some skills that might be of use."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd yawns crackingly, and snaps his jaws closed. A moment later,
the Drake puffs a small cloud of purple smoke from his nose, which
slowly shifts into a tiny, purple version of Jonnee. The blades
suddenly pop into the image's hand, the little figure twists at the
waist...then blurs into a reasonable copy of Taz, the tasmanian devil
of Bugs Bunny fame, zipping around the room before uncoiling into a
green thread that slowly disappears. The little dragon winks at
Jonnee once, before settling back down.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej watches the group split up into various factions. Aaron and
Princess Fiona - conference; Kaelyn - storming off, more or less;
Dorian - mysterious. The latter two live by the tip of their tongues,
predictable, but forward, qualities both to be encouraged and
suppressed. Open resentment within a group was better than festering,
hidden hatred, but open animosity would also lead to a clash in the
furure. The situation would bear watching.
Jonnee is the first to launch his story. The wily young man had lived
an interesting life, as per the old saying from the Ch'ing Empire 'May
you live in interesting times' and had already taken part in the
Patternfall War, it seems. A slight surprise.
As the tattooed young man finishes, Andrej steps forward, closer to his
companions, listening to Cyan's explanations and question in his
direction
"Interesting background, Jonnee. As for me, I
am, as our esteemed Jack O'Shadows already mentioned, of the Blood of
Amber. My father removed me directly after birth from the - courtly
games and sent me to a small country within the Golden Circle to be
raised by foster parents there. It was a good life and my foster
brother and me were like real brothers, always getting into mischief
and dodging punishment. We fought, learned, hawked and hunted, but
something inside me felt missing. Then my father returned."
The big man walks over to the table, adjusting for the slight swaying the ship is doing , and sits down on the table's edge.
"He told me things, showed me others and
generally made a mess with my mind. I naturally had heard of Amber, but
to be of the Blood had never occurred to me. I resented him for the
intrusion, the secrecy and the break in my life he had created. He took
me to the pattern and had me walk it. For those of you who have not
done so, it is very hard work. Just walking makes you feel like lifting
mountains. In the end I used it to send myself 'home'. Not the home of
my fostering, but a world that became my home for the next years. I
went to Wandjina. There I lived among the cossacks, fought battles for the tsarevich and generally had a blast - until my father found me again and brought
me on this quest on Princess Fiona's behest. That's all there is to me,
that's worth recounting. Not as interesting as Jonnee's tale, but true."
He flexes his broad back to relieve some of the tension that had been
creeping in during his speech, then relaxes again, staying seated on
the table's adge.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack nodded, Andrej’s tale was as fitting as
Jonnee’s had been, both men had the had the feel of honesty to them. .
. Nothing to hide. “I had better tell my tale, and have it done with.”
Jack said with a smile “it seems I usually get to busy with this
little war to talk about myself. Always so many things to do, right now
I’m to busy to not have time.” a bit of wry laughter followed
“I was born a prince, but not of Amber- Like Jonnee my
home world is both a world of wondrous technology and even more awe
inspiring magic. We can travel to the worlds around us via magic
gates and highways.” Jack seemed to loose himself in it as he told his
tale. “Unlike Jonnee I was pretty much a spoiled rich kid, jet setting
on seemingly endless bank accounts. Every day a different adventure,
every night a different party.”
“I was a bit of a hunter, when I was in my early
twenties I went by myself to hunt the Avignon preserve a royal
wilderness refuge. While hunting on it I found a cave that had recently
been uncovered in a land slide. I have a terrible streak of curiosity
so I went in and found a giant cavern with a massive drawing on the
floor. As I walked to the center of the cavern I stepped on the artwork
that covered the floor. Sparks began to dance around my foot and I
found out the hard way there is no going back. I walked my worlds
pattern.”
“That damnable curiosity pressed me on to find out just
what I could do once I had walked it. So I went out into the worlds. .
. It took me over a century to master it and find my way home. A
century of traveling the worst places in the worst worlds there are. I
say this time and time again, but I suspect no one takes it seriously.
I have seen such horrors in that century. Not just the wars,
plague, death and human suffering. Also such strange and alien horrors
as to drive a man to the brink of madness. I am just no finding out
there are worse things then even those that hide in the breaks. Yet in
the worst the worlds could throw at me, I also found the best in people
no matter how strange they look. Hope, self sacrifice and love.
Unbreakable spirit that even the malignant cracks of the pattern could
not shatter. “
He shivered and continued on “After a
hundred years I found my way home again, and around a year had passed.
It was some reception, the lost prince returned. Though my two older
brothers had died in the past year, that was all the more reason to
celebrate my returns. I met a young Dutchess at the celebration, it was
a whirlwind romance, things went on as they do. . . We were leaving on
a world tour, I had to go back inside for something, the car exploded.”
Jack was glossing over thing more and more not wanting to talk about
it, not wanting to remember. “Angelique was dead in an assassination
attempt meant for me.”
“I started hunting her Killers and found out that
it was one of my younger brothers that set the assassins on me and
killed three of the people I loved. My older brothers and Angel.
. . The cloak and dagger war lasted a year and in the end I
myself murdered my own brother. After that I went into seclusion on the
mountain where I found the pattern, having a cabin up there. That is
one of the main reason I hate these cloak and dagger things. It ill
befits a person. . . Living the life of a recluse and avoiding all. I
couldn’t deal with any of it any more.
“One day I got fed up with it all and walked to the
center, I wanted to escape it all. From the center of the pattern I
teleported and awoke with a lump on my head, no memory what so ever of
who I was or where I was from. I woke to look into Kalika Wolfblades
amber eyes and feral smile, and so my adventure with Julian’s agents
began. So was born Jack of shadows, now I find that I am more Jack of
Shadows than the prince. Jack an every man, and I am a man of the wolds
you would probably call shadow. My little way of mocking those
that call them that.”
“If you don’t mind the rest of the tale gets even
more emotionally taxing , and I am at a delicate part of my work.
So I’ll pass the torch to the next in line and finish the rest of
my tale a little later.” With that Jack leaned back and
closed his eyes.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James sits up slightly.
"I guess that makes it my turn.
The world I come from is similar to Jonnee's, at least as far as technology is concerned, if that means anything to you.
I was born in the years between two of the biggest wars my world had
ever seen. I grew up during the second of these. It was
pretty exciting as a young boy, plus I was bigger, stronger, faster,
tougher than other kids my age so when a sort of follow-up war started
I faked my age and joined up.
I had a couple of close calls, but again I had that edge, it got me
through. It also got me promoted to sergeant pretty quickly.
After that all finished I quit the army took up various freelance jobs as a mercenary and bodyguard.
Then another war broke out. It was a pretty turbulent time.
I signed up again, this time in the SAS, an elite unit, deep
reconnaissance patrols, hit and run attacks, working behind enemy
lines, that kind of thing. That war was hell. The people on
my world had had years to perfect the science of killing people.
Weapons that would spit flame 100 metres, chemicals that would burn
your flesh from your bones, others that just made you wish you were
burning so that at least you had a chance of dying sometime soon, bombs
that when triggered would jump up to chest height before exploding just
so more people would get hit with shrapnel. And it was fought in
jungle. Where it hadn't been cleared for villages or bombed flat
it was so thick there were times you couldn't see the soldier in front
of you, and your point man, well you just prayed he was out there
somewhere.
But it wasn't the weapons really, or the terrain, it was the little
things. Some of the things the enemy did just weren't human, and to be
honest there were times when we weren't a lot better.
That was it for me. After the war ended I quit the service, quit the military for good.
It was a good time to go for another reason. It was becoming
apparent that I wasn't like other people. Most of the people I
had grown up had been aging over the years. I just didn't get
older. It didn't matter that much at the time, most of the people
who knew me where dead.
And I could do things that just weren't supposed to be possible.
I'd long ago stopped amateur boxing because I had to pull my punches
just for fear of killing someone accidentally. After the war I
figured I'd better do something to learn to fit in. People
fighting alongside you tend to look the other way when you do something
impossible, but in 'normal' society? I wasn't sure I could fit in
anymore and the last thing I wanted to do was end up in a science lab
or freak show.
For a while I studied martial arts. Not as a way of improving my
fighting but in order to better control my strength and give me the
mental framework to manage my experiences in the war. It
worked... to a point.
As the years passed and I still didn't get any older I realised that
some longer term planning was in order. I had made quite a lot of
money as a mercenary but I was burning it pretty quickly travelling
around searching for the next guru.
I went to university, studied accounting. The subject was boring
but I liked the lifestyle. It was laid back, fun...and
anonymous. I'd enrol at a uni study for 3 or 4 years as a
boarding student from out of town, then get a job 'overseas' and
disappear again. It was hard letting go of some of the friends I
made but I managed to keep in touch with a few of them without blowing
my cover.
Sorry, that's a bit long-winded. Anyway, I was in my freshman
year studying Philosophy, when this red-headed professor that I'm
talking to after one of his tutes asks if I want to continue the
discussion on the walk back to his car. As we walk across campus
I start seeing things where they're not supposed to be and I'm starting
to seriously consider backing out. I tell the professor I forgot
a book back in the classroom and I've got to go back and get it.
He just smiles and tells me I'm welcome to try. I turn around and
lo and behold, there's a whacking great boulder where the Zoology
building should have been and not another person in sight.
That freaks me out a bit and I leap at this guy on the principle that
sometimes it's better to knock them cold first and ask questions once
they're tied to a tree. And he knocks me flat. Nobody's
done that to me since I was 8.
He tells me I'm related to the royal family of this place called
Amber. He says I'm not his kid, he's not sure who I'm descended
from, but there's no doubting the family blood. He asks whether I
want to go for a drive. Sure enough, there in the middle of a
clearing nearby is his car.
That drive was one of the wierdest experiences since I did some bad
acid back in 'Nam, but I won't bore you with the details. After a
while the car konked out and he bought horses. I'd never really
ridden before so I was pretty sore by the time we arrived at this
castle, city really, on a mountain and this guy looks at me as if he's
saying, "Well, what does it feel like to be home?."
Over the next few weeks, we camped outside of the city on the edges of
a big forest. He filled me in on a bit of the family history,
which recently seems to have been a real tangle of family
infighting. He reckoned that might be why I'd been stashed away
on my world. It was quite a bit to take in, I can tell you.
He also taught me a lot about swordfighting. Seems being the best
darn shot on a continent didn't count for much here. I'd done a
bit of fencing before, but this was serious stuff. Anyway, when
he finally figures I'm ready I get introduced to some of the family and
taken to the Pattern that Andrej told you about. He isn't
kidding. It's bloody hard work. That final stretch feels
like you're towing a tractor behind you while trying to walk through a
chest-high bog.
This guy told me some of the things I'm supposed to be able to do now
that I've walked the Pattern, and I have to say it was quite an
experience teleporting out, but I haven't really worked out the details.
This guy congratulates me, says what I've done proves I'm family and presents me with this sword as a gift.
And since those of you who know the family will probably figure it out
anyway, the guy in question is Bleys, which is why I'm here."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan listens to Andrej's tale, nodding at the high points. An
easy life, but this man, like Jack, yearned for more. It speaks
highly of him. And from what Aaron says, simply walking the
Pattern is a feat in and of itself. Not one to discount - Aaron
chose wisely. This man is strong, I think, and not simply in body. To be dependable, from where Cyan hails, is not an insult; rather, it is a compliment of the highest order.
Reaching out, she puts a hand on Jack's shoulder. "Some of us
knew what places you have been," Cyan says quietly. "I have seen
into the Breaks, as you call them. I did not look deeply, but if
you Walked the Worlds with the power of your Pattern, I do not doubt
you have seen the worst the Myriad Worlds have to offer." She
purses her lips for a moment, considering. "And the worst has a
tendancy to bring out the best, as well. You say you have seen
that? I say that you have also become that, Jack of
Shadows." Suffered much, and gained little for his pains. And yet, he remains resolute. Letting him go, Cyan releases Jack to his work, turning to listen to James.
This one, for all of his former silence, holds the soul of a
storyteller. The Bard listens grimly as he speaks of the ugly war
- though the weapons are horrors, it is the minds of the men and women
behind that truly create the destruction, and that does not change from
World to World. But such weapons...they sound much as something
the Lord of Fetters would create. "I know not the Royal Family,"
she says when he finishes, "but I have heard both good and ill of
them. This man, Bleys, sounds like a fine man from your
experiences. I am sorry to hear his name unjustly slandered here,
in Cadiniagart." She frowns. James seems to hint that he
does not age, or if he does, it is slowly. Looking him over, Cyan
has to admit that he does not seem to be much older than she...is
that a function of their blood? Aaron has stated he is over a
century old. I have known such men, but they died of
aging...eventually.
Are the Princes and Princesses of Amber truly immortal?
"Well," the Bard continues, glancing around with topaz eyes, "I expect
that comes to me." She laughs once, struck by something.
"Each time we have met new people, I have been the first to
speak. This is a change."
Leaning back, the Bard stares at the ceiling for a long moment.
"I recall little of my life before I met Berd...no, nothing. I
was very, very young. Berd had it hard those few years...yes,
yes, I will admit, Berd has had it hard with me all of my life."
Cyan grins around the circle and taps the little dragon on the
head. "In any case, I lived in a cabin he made for me in the
woods until I was about nine. At that point, Berd began taking me
on short 'walks', as he called them. We shifted from World to
World around my own, returning to a different place in mine each
time. It enabled me to travel, to see other cities. What I
did not realize until much, much later, was that many of those cities
were in other worlds."
Reaching up, the bard begins to scratch the Drake on the head.
"My education comes from the Bardic College of Shasivae, at
Cattashford. Such names are meaningless to you, of course.
In my Journeyman's year, I was to go out on my own - walk the world,
gathering songs and music. As it so happens, Berd had other
ideas. I spent the next few years travelling back and forth from
my World to another, close to mine. The time difference between
the two was quite large - fortunately, many of the inhabitants were
possessed of extremely long lives. This world was locked in the
grip of an all-consuming war in which I found myself enmeshed."
The Bard pauses. "I cannot help but see that many of our lives
have been marked by war. An interesting congruence." A thin
smile touches her lips for an instant. "Is it a natural
consequence of being a Walker of Worlds? Are we drawn to such
things, Jack in particular from his own method of travel? Or...is
it merely that people, everywhere, are in some way the same, and
eventually, if one Walks far enough, one will find conflict?"
Berd bites her on the ear, lightly, and Cyan jumps.
"Beast!" The dragon ducks her finger flick, and sticks out his
tongue, eyes rolling wildly. Cyan sighs, and turns back to the
others.
"Enough philosophy. In any case, I became close friends with some
of the people there, and their land was my home away from home."
Her eyes darken. "Until treachery and lies destroyed it - those
who were considered nominally allies came and tore down its great
doors, slaughtering one of my closest friends at the gates, and slaying
many of the people within. Their army, itself, was shattered as
it marched homeward, 'victorious', but little help that gave to the
survivors of ruined Menengroth." Drawning a deep breath, Cyan
continues. "I returned less often, and always to battle against
the forces of the Lord of Fetters. But then the Lords of the West
finally had leave to enter the conflict. Their clash with the
forces of the Black Enemy shattered the land; it sank beneath the waves
as I watched the ending, standing high atop the mountains of Ered Luin,
with the refugees moving through the pass beneath me to populate the
southern lands."
Taking a moment to rub her forehead, Cyan gives Berd a sad smile.
"From then on, we never returned. I think on the graves of my
friends, buried under water...." Shaking her head, the Bard
pushes back the deep sorrow, rolling her shoulders to relax them.
"From there, I decided that I should see the fabled city of
Amber. As a World Walker, I had heard of it, and according to
himself, Berd had been a visitor, years ago." She stares at the
drake suspiciously. He rolls over on his back, returning her gaze
upside-down. "We began to Part the Veil between Worlds, finding
ourselves over and over in odd situations, strange adventures, and
bizarre occurances. Always making our meandering way closer and
closer to Amber, until we finally reached Candiniagart, not so long
ago." Cyan grins, broadly. "This is nearly the closest we have
achieved - when the quest began, we met two of the Royal Family, Prince
Julian and our own, esteemed hostess, in the Forest of Arden. I
have not yet seen the towers of Amber, but then I have found much with
which to occupy myself out in the Myriad Worlds."
Cyan pauses, then considering, then continues in a low voice. "I
must say, I am glad to hear your tales, and your words. From
where I hail, words hold great import. Andrej names Wandjina a
'world', as does James his homeland. Jonnee says nothing of
'Shadows'. I am one of these 'Shadows' of which those connected
to Amber and Chaos banter. I...dislike the term, shall we say,
and think highly that you use it not."
Her mood lightens, then, and she looks up. "But see, I have a request I would make of you. Might I fashion a palanquet of each of you? They are cards, used for communication and
transport over distances - Fiona names them Trump, as do others, but
Berd taught me the way of the palanquet and palanquet they remain to me."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack reached out again and massaged Cyan's
sholders after her tale. "It has amazed me since I found out about the
perfect pure pattern and figured out what it is. You Ambers could live
the perfect lives in paradise or what ever you liked. Yet to a point
many of you seem to choose death, struggle and war. Ares a cousin of
yours became a god of war. Aaron seemed obsessed with combat back when
madness held him in sway, Kaelyn seems so highly strung with combat
that she is about to shake herself apart. Though You Andrej and
you James, both seem to have more of Ares composure. Well Andrej you
say you had a blast while you lived with the cossacks, fought battles for the tsarevich . Not quite a calm peacful life."
"Even James one of the most peacful of you I think
I have seen, sounds like he felt more at home in combat then in the
normal peacful world. Why is it with every thing to choose from that
the worlds could offer. . . Ambers seem to choose war? Or is that an
unfair question."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 17:00, Mon 12 July 2004.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
A soft chuckle escapes Andrej's throat at Jack's question.
"According to my father, Amber and its blood has
always been pretty cantankerous. Maybe that comes with its background,
maybe with its status as one of creation's poles. Whatever it is, Amber
attracts enemies from the outside and breeds paranoia on the inside."
He stands up and takes an apple from the bowl, smilingly lifting the empty apple-skin and putting it back again.
"So, a solid education in fighting or anything that might help you in overt or covert battles is a must for one of the blood."
Taking the apple in both hands he breaks it effortlessly in two, keeping one half in either hand.
"In my case, I strongly resented my father's
intrusion into my life, but some of his words struck chords within me
and so I chose a wild world in which to practice warcraft. I guess I
did quite well, being alive and sound, still, after some twenty-odd
years."
He sits down on the table's edge again and starts to munch half of his apple.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
The chuckle returns from Jack, "I suppose I
can't blame you to much, especialy with my family problems. I guess I'm
just more worried about how the universes work that with beating or
killing people. Don't be to hard on your father, he is your father and
it sounds like he was at least trying to protect you." Jack smiled
guiltily at the empty apple skin. Don't you know that would have
smarted." he said softly without threat, more of bemused contemplation.
"And before you ask the answer is yes, I could."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Bravo! Bravo Jack!" Leonardo applauds, "Hahah.
Once more, I see, you manage to tell half of your own tale, while those
around you reveal their every secret. It is good to see that,
with all the Myriad Worlds about to be turned upside-down, there are some things that have not changed."
He starts to pace around the room, right hand deep in the pocket of his
coat left held high as he gestures to emphasise his comments.
"Always you seem to play the same game, Jack of
Shadows. You wheedle and cajole and demand and threaten, until
others give up their secrets. Yet seldom do you speak of anything
meaningful when it comes to your own oh-so-mysterious truths."
"Well I, for one, will not fall prey to your deceit again. I am
sorry that I chose to return to you. I have decided that I will
travel back to my home and conduct my own investigations into these
matters. Investigations which are intended to uncover the facts,
rather than feed your already-bloated ego."
He turns and walks towards the door, then wheels and points at Cyan, "You,
Cyan, I do not hold to blame for any of this. It is clear to me
that he has duped you as easily as he does others. For that
reason I will leave you with two gifts which may be of use to you."
"The first is a name. I have recalled where I heard the word Callisto before. The Priest in Escher, Tarquin, one of his aides mentioned
the word, shortly before they left the church in an extreme
hurry. So it seems that Tarquin may be connected with the
Archons, especially as I have two eye-witness accounts which describe
him talking to a burning wheel."
"As for the second... " Leonardo steps towards Cyan, and
brings his right hand out of his pocket, wrapped in a thin, silvery
glove. A smooth movement of the fingers, and a flick of the
wrist, and he fans out a hand of cards before her face.
"You have bemoaned the fact that you find little time to work on your palanquet images. While I was away from you, I found time to produce Trumps
of Aaron, Jack, Hunter, Berd, yourself and THX 1138. Also there
is a Trump for a jungle world, where Tarquin is using slaves to
construct a pyramid, and where he has been seen to meet with
Archons. Clearly these are of little use to me, since I would
rather not contact any of you again, so I freely offer them to you,
bard."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan stares silently at the man with curious, amber eyes as he rants,
filing away the information he gives without hesitation. The
veracity of it is questionable, but it could be useful. The man's
words are venom, his tone pure acid - hatred drips there, and Cyan can
only guess as to why.
But she has a fairly good idea.
As he moves towards her she stands, Berd rising on her shoulder and
hopping down to Jack's. No sensation of danger reaches her, but
Cyan's eyes narrow as Leonardo reaches into his pocket then snaps one
hand out, fanning the cards practically in her face. With the
colour leeching dangerously from her gaze, Cyan extends her hand,
accepting the cards with gloved fingers. The thin rectangles she
passes to Berd, who slowly begins examining them. "I thank you
for your information, Leonardo, and for these," the Bard says, "but
your insults to Jack might well be directed at a mirror. I will
not return your poison, only request very strongly that you leave us
be."
Her other hand produces a card of her own - one that holds an image of
a small message-box, nailed to a tree. She passes it across to
Leonardo without hesitation, eyes slowly flowing back to an amber shade
as a thin smile touches her lips.
"Goodbye, Leonardo. Best of luck on your own investigation."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej looks in slight surprise at the slim man whose words drip venom
and whose cynism burns like an inferno within his heart. His right
eyebrow slightly rises and he looks from Leonardo to Jack and to Cyan
as the cards change hands.
***Old hatreds, final stage. The bad bones inside
this group's body are breaking themselves off. Again, maybe bad, maybe
good.***
He listens to Cyan's retorts, then turns directly to Leonardo.
"So you are leaving this group to investigate on
your own. Do you think alone you have a better chance of helping your
world? I don't yet know what the Archons are and what happened before
on this quest, but are you sure you can do anything about them without
help or backup? We may not be angels or all-powerful creatures of good,
but we will do our utmost to uncover and stop this threat, be it to
your world or another. If you want to leave now, I won't stop you, but
if you need help in the future, since we are together in opposing these
Archon's at least if you contact me somehow, I will help."
Andrej's voice is deep and soft, serious and sombre. It holds no promise, just states his thoughts.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack sat there his fingers resting lightly
on Cyan’s shoulders, his expression neutral in the face of the venomous
show. He had never understood exactly why he set this man off so, or
even why he had set Jack’s teeth on edge the way he did.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Leonardo
-----------------------------------------------------------
"And so I must bid you all farewell. But
fear not for my safety, as I have a way to leave the ship without
disturbing the sharks. So I will not have to make an example of
one, like our young friend there. Hahah."
Leonardo turns away, deliberately showing his back to Jack, I, at least, am not afraid of you, Jack of Shadows. Exiting the room he pushes past the returning Aaron, without saying a word...
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
He tried to re-enter the room, but Leonardo nearly bowled him over. He stepped
to the side right quick, so the man couldn't do just that.
Those that knew him closely could see that there was a look of relief in his eye. Something had been done during his meeting with Fiona, and it had apparently lightened his spirits.
Then the determination and the focused gaze was back. He looked upon
each person in the room, and frowned when he saw that a couple were
missing. There was a small shake of the head before his gaze found Cyan
and Jack. A small half-smile returned to his face, though the scarring
and the stony gaze somewhat limited the expression.
"Did I hear stories being shared before Leonardo so graciously left your presence?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack couldn’t help but chuckle at
the artist exit. One has to prove something by watching him as she went
, the other had to prove something by not watching him.
Leon left like he had came, with something to prove.
Jacks smile grew as Aaron entered the room, after listing to the new
boss he smiled and gave him a wink. “Perfect timing to talk about your
favorite thing string bean, yourself. What’s your story Aaron, for the
benefit of our newer members.” His hands began to work on Cyan’s
shoulders again.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej shrugs as the departing Leonardo so blatantly ignores him.
***To each their own. If our paths ever cross again
I guess we will be on opposite sides. That's what I hate about family
business.***
He softly shakes his head and looks at Aaron as he enters.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
He seemed to consider Jack for a moment, or more appropriately, his relationship to Cyan.
Then there's the tired sigh, and a defeated sounding "Oh, I suppose."
Moving to the center of the group, Aaron sat down. Shifting about so he
could make sure everyone could pay attention to him, he removed
Ilsefranvir from his back and set her into his lap.
The man's brown-eyed gaze cast high towards the ceiling, searching for the starting point; a firm nod, and then he began.
"Allow me to tell you my story. What I'm going to speak of won't delve
into the extreme circumstances and surprising reasons as to why I'm in
my current position, but..." and the smile is back, "there will be some
interesting points, now that I can finally remember just about
everything that's true about my past."
Aaron let out a last, dying gasp before he collected himself, and his story truly started.
"I believe I was born in Amber. I certainly remember living there for a
good twenty or so years of my life. My half-brother, Jadus, our..." a
noticible pause, "'Father' and I acted as deckhands, muscle and general
assistants for a sea and reality-faring trader who traveled through the
Golden Circle."
Shaking his head, Aaron chuckled at old memories as they flooded back.
"Jadus and I, well, we both felt the same way eventually. We needed to
get out of the family business for a while. I'm sure everyone here has
felt the need to wander about, and it hit the both of us pretty hard."
A narrowing of the eye, a consideration of his next wording. "Jadus
experimented with the more... magical elements of reality. Me? I've
swung a blade since I could carry a dagger. I'll admit that I'm not as
good as some people," and here he glanced at Cyan with a grin, "...but I know what
I'm doing. It's because of this fact that I hired myself out as a
bodyguard to a visiting magistrate."
His hand sliding down the leather sheath of Ilsefranvir, Aaron sighed.
"This magistrate had a sorcerer with him who tried to carve his way
through the worlds to get to where they needed to be. Oh, we got far,
but we never reached our destination. It was way too messy and that
damn sorcerer just couldn't handle the load." His eye narrowed, and he
thumbed Ilsefranvir's hilt. "We were ambushed by a group of angry
barbarians who thought we were invading their land. The magistrate and
his exhausted sorcerer were cut down almost immediately. I too, nearly
got my arse worn as a hat."
Aaron's eye started to sparkle, and he heard Arianne chuckle slightly.
"Then this big, seething monster of a man just flowed into
the fray. I'll be totally honest, he was unlike anything I've ever
seen. In his hand was this weird sword. One minute it was a pretty
large broadsword, the next... well, it just shifted around, smiting offenders left and right. He didn't leave a single person standing. Hell, I wasn't even standing when he was done. I was too stunned."
He chuckled, and shook his head.
"Anyway, I found out that the world I was on was called San Anyn. I...
can't remember the man's name, though. I do however, know that he was a
Protector of San Anyn."
A sad laugh. "You'd think I'd be able to remember the name of the man
who taught me everything I know now about a sword. I found out the
sword's name, though. Her name was Ilsefranvir."
Wistfully gazing into the distance, Aaron seemed totally lost in history. He wasn't on the boat, now. He was somewhere else.
"I learned about San Anyn's history. It's ancient cultures and strange,
exotic powers. I focused on their ways with their shifting,
soul-powered weapons. Yes, Ilsefranvir actually has a human soul buried
into her sharp edge. Her name is actuallly Arianne den Ilsefranvir, and
she's older than I am by at least nine centuries." He shook his head
agian. "Anyway, after ten years or so, Ilse's old master died of
disease, and I inherited both his blade and eventually, the armor that
turned him into a powerful force. That is a story in and of itself, and I won't bother with Herzkrieg's tale."
Now Aaron's eye turned steely, and he gripped Ilse's hilt as if the sword would somehow disappear if he didn't.
"I fell in love with a woman named Aliha. We married, eventually." A
sad, questioning chuckle. "She even hid that we had a daughter, which,
upon reflection, may have been a good idea."
Here, Aaron reached into his jacket and removed a cigarette, which he
placed between his lips. It hung there, unlit, as he continued the
story.
"As I was training with Ilse one day, I heard a great scuffle. Before I
could leave my room, my door was smashed down by a group of
barbarians... the same type of barbarins who had attacked the
magistrate and myself so long ago."
His eye flamed, now, and a strange, misty blue glow began to drift up from between the handguard and the sheath of his blade.
"A woman was leading these barbarians, now, but my eyes were only upon
the figure who they held, nailed to a T-shaped cross that they carried
in their midst. I couldn't recognize who it was at first, for her eyes
had been forcefully removed." Did his left eye twitch, there?
Perhaps... "When I finally realized that it was my wife, well, Ilse got
a taste of much blood then."
Leaning his head down, he ran his hand through his long hair, scratching his head for a moment.
"The woman was named Jadelynn, and she was a powerful wielder of mental
potential. By using the mutilated body of my own wife to open my mind
to shock, she was able to basically whip it into whatever she wanted."
Now he looked to Jack and Cyan with a sort of sad regret. "So she
turned me into a sort of doll, forcing me to find a way off of San Anyn
so I could cause all kinds of strangeness and chaos. That went on for a
little over a century."
"Curiously, I actually found my way back to Amber. Not only that, but something led me to the Pattern. A... feeling. I'm going to be honest when I say
that I didn't know much of anything at that time, but I will say that
Jadelynn left my mind for a time, to keep her manipulations safe from
the purifying power of the Pattern, I believe. Once I walked it - and
I'll be damned if that wasn't a chore in and of itself - she settled
right back in."
Shaking his head, he chuckled.
"Well, she's old news anyway. Long story short, I asked the Pattern to
send me to where I was needed, and it dropped me right onto Jack. That
started a whole large ball of insanity that I'd rather not delve into,
but I will say that one of the results was that we were finally able to
purge Jadelynn's influence from my mind." A sigh, and another, smaller
smile.
"I'll also say that one of the other results of that meeting, and so
far the best, is that I'm able to be where I am right now, in the
position I'm in at this moment. Half blind, one handed... but still
stable. Still sane, and totally determined to accomplish what needs to
be done."
A nod, the cigarette bobbing up and down, Aaron looked to each person in turn.
"That's the long and the short of Aaron of Amber, Former Protector of San Anyn."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
There are soft footsteps outside, and then the door slowly creaks open.
Dorian, still wrapped in his black cloak stands in the doorway. "I
sensed a disturbance, so I returned. I was under the impression we were
done with our meetings, or is the a more personal gathering? If so, I
have more important tasks to attend to."
More to the point, why are they having conversations to which I
wasn't invited? They seemed to make a show of breaking for the evening,
and then I find I am the only one to leave. No, two others are missing.
He was not so much worried that they conspired against, as that they
were not trusted to be inlcuded in whatever these discussions were.
That was fair, but it still left some suspicion.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Come in Dorian, if you wish. We were trading stories, getting to
know one another. So from that point of view it is a personal
gathering, rather than a meeting. Aaron only just returned from meeting
Fiona."
"I'm sure we would all be interested in hearing your story Dorian, but
maybe you would feel more comfortable waiting until we can each fill
you in on what you missed?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Frowning, Cyan watches Leonardo go. With a sigh, she slowly sinks
back down to her seated position. Berd moves towards her shoulder
along Jack's arm, only to be thwarted by the man's sudden desire to rub
his usual perch. With a brief hiss of annoyance he settles back
down on Jack's shoulder, pausing to waggle his tongue at Lenore.
Cyan, for her part, closes her eyes for a moment, opening them to sweep
her ruby gaze across the room. For a moment, she locks eyes with
Aaron, eyes to eye, and cocks one eyebrow.
Then the man is off and running, into the story of his life.
The Bard listens with interest. She's heard it before, two
different ways. This time, Cyan thinks, she's getting something
far closer to the reality. It would seem no madness occludes the
eye of Aaron's memory, nor does suspicion. So she sits quietly,
tense shoulders slowly relaxing under Jack's fingers, and nods along
with the parts that clear up some questions.
Some questions.
Opening her mouth, Cyan is about to speak when the door creaks open and
Dorian enters. James answers the man's query, and the Bard nods
again, agreeing. "Regrettably we have no Brandy, but as James
says this is more of an informal meeting. Certainly you would be
welcome to join and tell us of yourself." She shrugs, shoulders
moving under Jack's hands, and breaks into a sunny smile towards the
dark man. "I believe no story was too long to be repeated in
full."
Her eyes flick back to Aaron's single orb. "But there are some
issues needing airing, and I am uncertain if Aaron wishes for us to
speak of them before others - they are personal. Perhaps they can
wait until we DO go to rest. In addition, we should at some point
speak of the events of the quest to disseminate the knowledge, but that
should wait until all can hear." Kaelyn is, after all, not there
at the moment.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Ilsefranvir
-----------------------------------------------------------
Raising a hand to Dorian, Aaron nods to the unfamiliar man.
"Please, take a seat. It surprised me just as much to find that
everyone else had actually decided to stick together." A small smile at
that man's posture. "You've nothing to worry about here, my friend.
Trust me when I say that any nearby danger already wanders the ship,
outside of this room."
Rubbing his temple (god, how fine it would be to rub them both), Aaron slowly nodded at Cyan's words.
"Also, Cyan is correct. While it will be good for us to hear your story
now, while we can, I believe rest should be our priority once we're
through."
A look to Cyan, and then Jack as if for confirmation. He didn't need it, as he was the leader, but then his gaze fastened on Andrej, and he nodded to the man as if to finalize the idea.
"Once the lot of us are coherent enough to continue on, then we'll get down to business."
He seemed to finish that sentence somewhat short, and his position on the floor took on a more considering state.
"Once I've heard your story, Dorian, I am going to look for Kaelyn and see if I can stop any future mistakes, once and for all."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Aaron," Jack says the Amber mans name softly "How about
letting me help you with your little problems." Jack stood a look
of regret crossing his face as his hands came away from Cyan's
shoulders. He brought hands together with a loud resounding clap and
started rubbing his hands together a wicked grin playing across his
face. "Do you trust me ?" he asked as he he stood carefully looking the
Amber man over with his lens as he moved towards there new leader.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd cocks an eyeridge at Jack, turning his head out to view the
man. He looks to Jack, then to Aaron, then sighs, head drooping
down to lie against Jack's chest.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian straightens, looking almost angry for a moment. "Where
I come from, we would rather kill a person than share so much personal
information. Please understand that this sharing of personal stories is
rather alien to me. However, I do understand that we are a team, as
loathsome as it may be, and a certain amount of trust and familiarity
is required. Since our goal is so important, I will comply, but I will
be brief...
"A very long ways from here, there is a world called Samhain. This
world is about as close to the Courts of Chaos as we are currently to
Amber. Well, that is a rough approximation, at least. It is not an
enjoyable world, not one you would visit on purpose; the cloud cover is
so thick that the sun is never seen. The face of the world constantly
changes, a storm covers the entire planet, so that the buildings can
only be made from the densest stone. What little vegetation exists is
short and stunted, clinging to the rocky surface in desperation, or
cowering in the cracks and cervices. The animal life is fierce and
large; our animals are what most worlds would call monsters.
"Yet, the world is rich in magic, and that is how the humans there
survive. The rules of Samhain society are simple. It is ruled through
domination, fear and terror. The strongest rule, while the weak are
enslaved.
"They told me a man appeared on the doorstep of a healer; healers are
somewhat exempt from domination, due to the services they provide. This
man was large, wore a black cloak with silver mail underneath. He
handed the healer an infant, wrapped in a black cloak and..." From within the folds of his cloak, he produces a brass compass on a
chain. It is rather plain, worn and beaten, with no obvious designs or
decoration. Dorian presses a button and the lid flips open, revealing a
compass needle the wanders the circumference aimlessly, instead of
pointing north. "...and this compass. He said, ‘His name is Dorian. When he is ready, the compass will take him home.
"And that is all; I don’t know if the man is my father or someone else.
I grew up on Samhain, and after half a century of intrigue and
backstabbing, I ruled the world. Through all that time, I tried to
understand the mystery of the Compass, but it was deceptively simple. I
merely had to think about what I desired. When I thought of home, it
began to lead me across new worlds on a long, strange journey. At
times, I thought I had no home, and so the compass merely led me
randomly across worlds without end. However, eventually, the path it
led me on took me to Amber.
"I did not remain in Amber long. I was used to the ways of Samhain,
even though I’d seen many worlds and many different ways. I tried to
find my family by force, and I found only speculation. With my power,
they said, I had to be one of the Royal Family. They assured me I had a
slight resemblance to a certain branch of the Family. Sadly, I was
forced to leave before I could learn more. One simply does not march up
to Castle Amber and demand to know who his father is, it seems. I am
Fortunate that the Elder who confronted me discerned the reasons for my
barbaric ways, and merely sent me away; it was not a pleasant
experience, I had never experienced such power before. I was instructed
to learn more civilized ways.
"So, I returned to walking the other worlds. I sensed that Amber was
very different from the other worlds, more real, but I did not know the
word ‘shadows’ then. I needed to learn more about this place called
Amber, and its Royal Family, and I needed to learn their ways.
"I have spent much time in these shadows, traveling and learning what I
could, and now I return to Amber. I am helping on this mission to learn
more about those who are associated with Amber, and in exchange for
information, if any can be found. Although I agreed to this mission for
the sake of Amber, and without compensation, Fiona has agreed to help
me find information about who my parents might be.
There, I have been brief; I hope it is informative. At this point, I am reluctant to go into more detail than that."
Dorian avoids any of the eyes of the other, still looking displeased and unconfortable.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan grows a shade paler during Dorian's speech on the place from
whence he hails - not from fear, but from a vague sense of creeping
horror. No
wonder - I knew there would be a reason, but to grow up in such a
place, to come to one's maturity in a hellish environment, where you
can trust no-one, not even your family...where domination replaces
loyalty, and terror replaces love.... She shudders, once, at the thought.
"Dorian," the Bard replies quietly, "I would not ask for more; indeed,
you should not be required to speak so about yourself. Your ways
are not ours - knowing yours will help us to understand you, just as
knowing ours would assist you in comprehending us. But they are
not required, though understanding might aid us in our travels. I
am gratified you think enough of this quest to honor us with your
story."
Glancing around with amethyst eyes, Cyan looks to the others for a long
moment. "It is only fitting that we, too, share our stories with
Dorian after this. I will begin, if there are no objections."
Then she launches into a concise version of her tale.*
Berd, for his part, listens silently and eyes the compass curiously.
*OOC - I won't repost, Dorian - just look above! :)
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack glanced over at Dorian about to tell him to not tell
his story if he didn't want to. Instead he wound up listening to the
Dark mans story. As he listened he reached down and took Aaron's stump
at the end of the arm and began to massage the scared flesh. "Hold
still." He said to Aaron softly as to not interupt Dorian's story.
Then Cyan began her story again and Jack held
Aaron's apendage between his hands, but it no longer could be seen in
the darkness that formed there. Jack big hand coverd what ever it was
what seemed like it might be forming, but that might also be darkness
forming.
Jack began his own story again for the benifit of Aaron 'who he
could nt remeber if he had ever told the man' and Dorian. As Jack
talked flashes of light and dark danced between his hands where he held
Aaron. Jack was turning so pale as his story and work contined, beads
of sweat forming on his brow. As the tale ended, Jack lifed a hand and
peaked under at the end results of his work.
OOC: Same thing, read the previously posted story.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej listens to Dorian's story impassively, silently. Such a world
made any of his experiences seem meaningless. And becoming the leader,
no, the 'dictator' of such a world really takes guts and willpower. At
the end of the story he nods in newfound respect for the pale sorcerer.
Not fondness, but respect.
Cyan's and Jack's stories retold find their way deeper into his
memories and Jack's actions helping Aaron clearly indicate more
interesting things to come.
As Jack finishes his tale, Andrej clears his throat twice.
"My turn again- As stated before I am of the Blood of Amber---", and he launches into a retelling of his life again.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Of course I trust you..." came his response to Jack.
And then they were off.
He said nothing through the effects. Not a wince, not a single tick of
recognition regarding pain or offense. He did, despite the occurence
before him, manage to listen to Dorian.
...which certainly led to some interesting thoughts.
Suddenly, he knew what Jack was doing. He had remembered,
back in the cave of the Broken Pattern, Ilsefranvir commenting to Cyan
about the healing of the wound he had given her so long ago...
His eye hadn't widened, per-se, but he was certainly paying attention.
"I swear to God, Jack, if the Dark Well suddenly sprouts from my
outstretched arm, I'm going to do very vile things to you when you're
through..."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
As Jack does something to Aaron's arm, there is a creaking sound from behind him, and the
snapping of metal, and a framed map falls from the wall, the glass
shattering as it hits the floor. Then all can feel it, a shudder
that runs through the whole ship, twisting timbers and tearing out
nails, only to stop a few moments later...
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
About to say something else, Dorian looks around the ship, arching an eyebrow. "What is this; is this supposed to happen?" He studies Jack and Aaron first, then furrows his brow in concentration.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
As the ship rends Jack lets go of
Aaron’s new pale hand, white right up to where it connects to the
tanned wrist. The joints are a little swollen like they are arthritic,
but it’s a hand, a working hand that will heal fairly quickly. . . He
hoped.
Jack looked around his eyes following the last of the
groaning shutter. “Oops!” escaped his lips “Did I do that?” he asked.
“I may have forgot to mention a few minor details. I guess the bigger
the healing the worse the price paid.” He looked at the Drake on his
shoulder “Ummmm Berd. . . How bad is it and can you fix it?”
After a moment more of looking around trying to figure
out if they are sinking, or more to the point how fast they were
sinking. He asked Aaron “So did you want me to try and do
something about that eye real quick like?” a maniacal grin spreading
despite how bad things were looking.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Berd
-----------------------------------------------------------
Berd yawns crackingly and looks down Jack's arm at Aaron's hand.
He rolls his head back to give Jack an upside-down, long-suffering
look, before slowly glancing around.
Twin, tiny pixies materialize in the air beside his head, buzz around
Jack's hair for a moment, then flit over to the map, pulling it back up
the wall and picking up the glass pieces.
At the same time, Berd's eyes grow distant.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Lenore
-----------------------------------------------------------
Lenore snapped at a fairy as it fluttered around
her humans head. Undaunted by the fact that they flew away she flapped
after them with a cawing laughter. So they may be sentient, they were
still the right size for a light snack and their movement made them
that much more appealing.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
The tremor running through the ship is enough to alert Kaelyn from her
concentrations and she immediately heads for the hold first and the up
to deck to check on the status and condition of the ship and insure
that they are not suddenly sinking.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
<Backpost>
James nods approvingly at Aaron's proposed course of action.
Somebody really needs to take the situation between Jack and Kaelyn in
hand and it should be Aaron, if he is to confirm his authority.
Listening to Dorian's tale, James tries in vain to imagine what it
would be like to grow up in such circumstances. It's certainly
easier to understand, now, why Dorian disdained his promise offered to
Aaron. In fact, it's amazing Dorian can bring himself to share
any of his personal history at all.
However, there's a warning bell ringing in the back of James's head. On a world like that, Dorian ruled. What does that make him?
</Backpost>
"What in blazes was that?!"
Still nestled in the corner of the room, James doesn't have to worry
about his balance, just the prospect of furniture crashing into him.
As the ship buckles, James considers his options. An impact like
that doesn't do much for the seaworthiness of a vessel. He can
lead the group through shadow and off the boat. He could also
alter the world around the ship so that they ran smoothly aground on an
island or sandbar. But would Fiona object to his messing with
'reality' on her ship? Did he have time to find her and ask?
His reverie is broken by the sight of Lenore chasing the fairies. "Excuse me, ah, raven. Please stop. I've got a feeling we might need those."
He heads for the door without waiting for a response. "I'll go check on the damage. If I find Kaelyn I'll send her here."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
At the first creaking sound and the shattering of glas, Andrej stops
talking and slides off the table's edge. Jack's admission, that it
might be his fault, surprises him. He is silent for a moment, trying to
get the feel for the ship's movements under his feet, then turns to
Jack.
"So, that is the price you pay for having that power? Better you, than me, priyatiel. If doing something would throw such a jack in my gears, I would have abandoned it long ago, pardon the pun."
He smiles and shakes his head in wry amusement, then heads for the door
and opens it with more force than necessary, perhaps assuming it had
warped. Cocking his head to the right he tries to hear what the crew or
anybody outside is shouting or doing in response to the incident.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dworkin (GM)
-----------------------------------------------------------
The ship, it seems, is in no immediate danger a warship of Amber is
made of sterner stuff than that. There are shouts from the crew,
reports of damage found and assessed, but nobody seems to be preparing
to abandon ship just yet...
Lenore flaps after the sprites, but they are fast and agile, and dart
out through a narrow gap where the door no longer quite fits the frame.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan watches in awed amazement as the hand returns. She had seen,
experienced such a thing, but a finger and a slice of a palm was quite
different from a whole hand!
Then the ship shakes.
Cyan stands, immediately, frowning. Keeping her footing, she
glances around as the map crashed to the ground, disregarding it as
harmless, and listens carefully, her feet on the deck telling her the
tale of the ship.
James, though, has headed out on deck, and she nods to him as he
leaves. <i>Perhaps he can give us a more detailed report on
the situation, and find Kaelyn at the same time,<?I> she
considers as the boat slowly ship itself to a halt.
"We must certainly consider the effects in the future," she says aloud, agreeing with Andrej.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Lenore!" Jack hissed a warning at the raven as he came back
over to Cyan. He leaned close and kissed her on the cheek as he moved
past only to turn and rest his hands on her soulders again.
"No all of us have the perfect Pattern." He answered
Andrej "Some of us must take what we can get. Many of the people in the
worlds can not regrow hands and die when sick, so the price is not to
great. When I see the suffering I feel compeled to help ease it." Still
Jacks head dipped to show his understanding "I'll try and be carefull
when and where I use it. Someone was using the Pattern and it effected
how the break manifested and jumped. Next time I will try and focus on
sending the darkness that I have to pull out of the person I heal
farther away. That should work better, forgive me I am still learing
this."
Jack was releived Leon and Kaelyn were not here at the time, both of
them would have seen this mistake as a weakness and ragged him for it
in the worst way. Instead of seeing the potential of being able to heal
across the worlds.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
Aaron raised his new hand, extending his whole arm out and slowly, very
slowly, spreading his fingers. He grit his teeth as the joints cracked,
and he felt that it would be a while - perhaps a few days - before he
could start using it in a more constant fashion.
Still, it was quite amazing. It was pale, numb... but it was his hand.
"Jack, I..." Aaron began, just before the ship shuddered.
"You know what? I think I'll forgoe your healing of my eye." came his answer, and he gazed about the room with consideration.
James bolted off to check the state of the ship, and to find Kaelyn.
The former was good, but the latter was only slightly better. Aaron
wasn't going to jump to conclusions about the woman, but if she wasn't
in his sight, he considered her a possible liability.
He reconsidered, and decided that it was good that Kaelyn got the hell back here. Better that he can keep an eye on her.
"Well, as soon as I'm sure that everyone else is safe, we can get some
rest." A look to each of them in turn, a smile creeping up onto his
face. "I don't know how many times I'm going to say that tonight."
Placing a hand on Jack's shoulder, he chuckled.
"You know, I should've considered that when you started manipulating the Broken Pattern. Someone would have to pull this ship through Reality in order for us to get to
where we're going, and we both know our Patterns don't like to mix
well." A shrug. "I'm just glad nothing worse happened. Just... be more
careful next time."
Slowly flexing his hand, Aaron nodded at it.
Don't forget how you lost it.
His eye narrowed for only a moment, before he smiled at Jack.
"Oh, and thanks. A few years ago, I wouldn't even have begun to think
that you'd help me like that." A laugh. "But that was a few years ago.
For me, at least."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Aaron I am ashamed of you," Jack chided
their new leader in a soft dramaticly wounded voice "You wound me.
Someone may be on my bad side but I would try to heal almost anyone in
need. Unless I was the one having to kill them." He flashed a innocent
smile that held a bit of the devil in it.
"Just don't make me regret my having an ol' soft heart
and doing this for you though." the chuckle that followed had a hint of
wickedness there. There was something that belayed the dramatic
wickness in the tired eyes, something that sead he would do what ever
was needed and heal the hurts of the worlds if he could.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
This time, Dorian was not going to leave until everyone else had, so he remained seated watching the others.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
Carefully taking in her evaluation of the condition of the ship, Kaelyn
moves to the rail of the ship to look around for the source of attack
or magical power. "I don't know what caused this but I will be ready."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Putting one hand on Jack's where it rested on her shoulder, Cyan looks
Aaron over as he walks up. "An improvement," she admits.
"You appear less...lopsided." Her wide smile gives testament to
her feelings on the matter. "It was a shock when Jack did the
same for my finger, Aaron. I know of what you speak - a talent
few possess, I think."
Glancing over at Andrej (standing out the door and checking to see if
anything is seriously amiss) Cyan raises her voice. "Is it well
out there, Andrej? Or are we to be assisting with a battle
against fire?" James has already sped out the door - it seems the
entire group will be together again, should he bring back Kaelyn.
Her hand squeezes Jack's again and the Bard turns her gaze to Dorian, still sitting silently on the ground. A very cool one indeed, and not simply in his heart. He suffers the potential danger with admirable aplomb.
Slowly, Cyan sits back down again. "So what is the plan now,
Aaron? I suspect that rest will be required, but will you be
speaking to us beforehand?" Cocking an eyebrow over a topaz eye,
Cyan regards their leader again. "And will it be a private
discussion, with Andrej? Or no?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
"Everything seems fine - at least we are not
sinking. There is some structural damage to the ship and some property
damage, but nothing really serious, as far as I can hear."
The big man turns back to the others, leaving the warped door as it is.
"I did not mean to cheapen your powers, Jack.
It's just, if I had these side effects whenever I use my powers, I
probably would have abandoned them for being too dangerous and
capricious and would have sought a different approach. You are a braver
man than me, it seems.
He smiles softly, then looks at Aaron.
"Congratulations, priyatiel. It's a hand."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Some of the tension flows out of Dorian at the announcement. Despite
having sensed nothing with his mind, it was good to have a physical
confirmation. It disturbed him that this was a mere side effect of
Jack's power. Such power should be controlled and understood, a side
effect like this was like a leak in a pipe. Jack had proven himself to
be respectably powerful, but such careless use of power was dangerous
to everyone.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack looked at Andrej evenly "You don't think I have tried Andrej?"
Jacks eyes took on an intensity "Did you really hear my story. I am
what your people would call a shadow man. Okay shadow prince. After I
originally walked the flaws of the fractured pattern, it took me over a
hundred years to learn enough to make it home. Then I was caught in a
family war, so I had no choice but to make use of everything I had no
matter the cost. After that I tried to give it up and walk away, but
power corrupts, it calls to you."
"Now I am caught up in this, having learned better how to use my power,
but my power has also grown and I am having to learn new things about
it. I am just now learning to Mend and dodge the breaks, but I know
soon I shall be able to dodge them in such a way as to cause them to
land exactly where I want them to. The more I practice the better
control I will have, until I can control the darkness of the well. Each
day that control grows a little more. None of us have total control
over who we are, or what we can do. So we must make the best of what we
have. We can not afford to abandon something just because it is not
perfect."
"Of course being as you are second I guess that if you determine me or
my powers to dangerous . . . Then you are free to tell me to leave."
Jack nodded meaning the last and that he would accept the seconds
Judgment.
"Could you Andrej, walk away from the tool of your pattern? Have you
never made mistakes when learning a new aspect of your Pattern?"
Jack bent down and pulled a few straws from a broom "Just because
something is different or even dark in nature, does not mean we should
fear it, just respect it. Because sometimes-- sometimes you can
go through the darkness to find yourself in the light on the other
side. And sometimes even side effects can prove to be useful
tools."
He took a straw in his hand and blew on it, there was a burst of psyche
and the straw was embedded in the bulkhead of the ship across the room
with part of it sticking out. "You would be amazed how you can use side
effects."
Through this all he did not sound like he was complaining, instead more
like am impassioned school teacher giving a lecture. There was no
intend threat in the straw n being embedded in the wall, just a school
masters example of side effect and how the darkness could be used. With
that he let it go and resumed his place by Cyan, Lenore landing on his
shoulder. He was not worried if they believed him or not, or even if
they understood. He had at least said his peace.
"No offence intended, I know you didn't mean it that way Andrej. I am
still learning control over certain aspect of my powers, despite
mastery over others. The control is coming to me quickly though, for I
am a master of what I do and what I use. What I have been forced to
use. . . You think I would have chosen this? But I am creative and can
make use of just about anything."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
A smile and a shake of the head is all the answer he gives both Andrej
and Cyan at the comments on his new hand. Then to Cyan, he spoke.
"Once I'm sure everyone is alright, and once I know where everyone will
be, then we all can adjourn to the meeting. And a little rest for the
four of us." There's a sigh, and another small smile. "I intend for
this meeting to be as casual and easygoing as possible. Trust me when I
say I will hide nothing of my prior journies."
His attentions fell on Jack just then, and he listened with curiosity
at the man's conversation with Andrej. Here and there he nodded, but
one particular line stuck with him.
Sometimes you can go through the darkness, to find yourself in the light on the other side.
Once he was finished, Aaron clapped Jack gently on the shoulder. "I
know very few people who can face the darkness that chooses to invade
their lives in one form or another. I know even fewer who can defeat
and control it."
Here, Aaron leaned back, on both hands this time (though with somewhat less weight on the left than on the right), and gazed up at the ceiling in retrospection.
"It's hardest to combat the darkness when you do it alone. Sometimes,
though, it's even tougher to combat that darkness with others watching."
And at that moment, he considered Kaelyn.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee had jumped to his feet when the tremor ran through the
ship. A natural reaction, considering he had been raised on a
fault line.
When it subsides, and Jack explains the cause of it though, he grins
from ear to ear. It looks like, for Jack at least, payback isn't
just a bitch, it's the bitch.
Wonder if that happens every time he tries to
do anything with that thing he has inside him? Must remember to
keep an eye on that one.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Kaelyn
-----------------------------------------------------------
After inspection of the ship and a short conversation with James,
Kaelyn returns to her quarters, a mercenary knows to get rest when she
can.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
“You are quite welcome Aaron,” Jack said
despite the fact that that the Amber man had not said exactly that,
still he knew that Aaron was thanking him in his own Aaron’ish
way. “Perhaps once I have rested and practiced a bit more,
you will change your mind on the eye. Then again perhaps you will allow
me to lead us through the worlds to our next destination.” Jack’s hand
started massaging Cyan’s shoulders again. “I promise with the route I
have in mind it would be an interesting journey, Jonnee would just love
it!” Jack smiled the knowing smirk.
Then he relaxed, “Seriously Aaron, how mush longer
until meeting time? I promised Berd I’d cook him a feast. I have other
promises to keep, that I will be happy to keep. Plus I still have a job
to finish here. I’m ready to see you take control on get everything
flowing in a direction junior. I guess I can’t wait to see you putting
those leadership skills to work.”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I too am axious to hear which direction we will go from here. I
have heard hints that there might be many of these things, and that
this one today was only a youth. I find it odd that a youth would be so
close to Amber; surely a superior would send a veteran so close to the
enemy stronghold. Nevertheless, my thought is that we cannot hope to
ferret out and destroy so many, perhaps there is a source or leadership
that we should destroy, instead.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack looked to Dorian, “Yes there are a lot
of them out there. . . Thousands, tens of thousands,” He shrugged
“Hundreds of thousands? You are right, probably to many to handle one
by one. Though I have my doubts about being so direct and taking on the
enemy head to head. There is another right here near Amber. . ."
"Seems the enemy likes back up plans and looks to be
targeting both the Amber’s and Chaos. Though I do have a few
ideas and recommendations, I will wait till Aaron there decides
to call the meeting to order and it’s my turn for a say.”
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan's head droops slightly as Jack's powerful hand massages her
shoulders. She shakes her head - Jack's demonstrations of his
abilities never cease to astound her, as he brings more and more out,
every day (or so it would seem!).
She glances up at Aaron, briefly. "As you wish, Aaron - I hope
that James returns with Kaelyn, soon enough. Then perhaps we
might be able to finally clear up a few mysteries."
"We HAVE fought the enemy head to head," the Bard notes as Jack
discusses that fact with Dorian. "I would not wish to do so again
- surprise was on our side - surprise and exceptional circumstances
which allowed us to free a world, a single world.
Sufficient at the time, but...no, Dorian, you and Jack are
correct. They are too many to defeat in detail. We must cut
the head from the snake, and hope it does not turn out to be a
Hydra. Our current tact, until we returned here, was to attempt
to discover more information, and trace the enemy to their lair.
Now that we are no longer alone, perhaps, with our conjoined abilities,
this will prove more easy than I expected...
"As for moving through the worlds, Jack," Cyan points out, "with so
many Lords of Order here, might it not be wiser to take the
less...exciting path?"
Aha...yes, movement. That was something. The Bard
turns to the young man who seems to be the only one in the current
group more high-strung than herself. "Jonnee...when you ran down
the stairs, you reached the bottom far, far more quickly than myself -
and I was falling straight. Granted," she admits, "Berd slowed my
fall considerably - I could not easily survive, no matter land
properly, from a fall of a hundred feet - but still, I did not travel
at the speed of a falling feather! How did you accomplish this?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian gazes at something far away, thinking as he speaks. "On
one world I visited, they had something they called gorilla tactics. A
small group would harass a larger group, by attacking supply lines and
communication lines; they would assissinate leaders, poison food,
liberate enemy horses, and generally do what they could to make life
hard, while they scattered and hid in the forest. The goal was not to
defeat the enemy, but to keep them from causing any harm long enough
for reinforcements to arrive. I don't suppose we have any
reinforcements, do we? Still, if we could discover away to break down
communication somehow, it could help. At the very least, perhaps we
could eliminate leaders to break down their heirarchy. Well, I should
not start such discussions early. The meeting for such talk is
tomorrow, and I am digressing."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James reappears in the doorway.
"We could get reinforcements, Dorian. I could
travel through shadow until I find a world where the entire population
were battle-hardened fighters who worshipped me as a god. It's
one of the beauties of infinity. Everything is in there
somewhere."
"But it would take time, I have never attempted such a thing
before. And there is no guarantee that the enemy is not mustering
forces more quickly than I could hope to achieve."
He shrugs,
"It's not a digression, we need to talk about it some time soon, but that's for Aaron to decide I guess."
He turns to Aaron,
"Speaking of which, Kaelyn is in her cabin. I told her you would
come and find her when we discussed where to go from here."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej looks at Jack, slowly nodding in comprehension and acceptance.
"No offense taken, Jack. I merely stated, that I would have abandoned it, probably losing myself in the process, but still - "
He nods at Jack again with a grin and falls silent, spreading his
hands. As the conversation turns to more pressing matters he listens to
the others first, not having any previous information about the enemy.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack's hands slipped down off of Cyans shoulders and
quietly he moved for the door. He gave a nod to each of them. Andrej,
Jonnee, James and Dorian. Casting a disapointed look at Aaron as he
went. "Call me when you have anything at all worked out and have shown
any Leadership what so ever Aaron." Jack said casualy as he slipped out
the door. "I'll be in the galley."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee chuckles at Cyan's question, "Oh,
you know, I ran down the stairs, just like anybody else would've
done. Unless, of course, they were totally mad and decided to
jump from like a hundred feet up."
He winks at the bardess, and then in a flurry of movement that's almost
too quick to follow, he is behind her, leaning close to murmur in her
ear, "Where I come from, I'm not even reckoned to be that fast."
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan stares with shocked, emerald eyes at Jonnee as he blurs in beside
her, jerking her head back with brilliantly quick reflexes.
"Slow? If that is slow, Jonnee Kay, I would like to meet one of
your sprinters. I have never seen the like of your speed-"
She pauses, then staring after Jack, one hand coming up towards him as
a look of confusion passes over her face. "Jack?" Casting a
look around at the others, she hurries after him, catching up to him at
the door.
"Jack, what are you doing?" she whispers, confused by the sudden shift in his emotions. By heaven, this man shifts moods quicker than I.
On Jack's shoulder, Berd merely opens one, quizzical eye, then goes back to sleep. People.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Stopping to glance back at Cyan with his own blue uncertain eyes. "I
don't know Cyan, but I'll be back in a bit. Why did you want to come
with?" he whispered back softly.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
"That," she returns quietly, "is up to Aaron. He has just been
appointed our leader, and we have things about which to speak. It
might be a good time to pause a moment, and consider."
Cyan's voice drops to a whisper, perfectly tuned for Jack's ears only.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I'm not at all certain what is up to
Aaron," Jack said clearly "he has changed his mind three times in
as many minuets. From it is time to Rest, to going himself to find and
talk to Kaelyn to it's time to wait for a meeting, but we must wait on
Kaelyn. Who it seems is not even comming and no one is going to get
her. I have as of yet to see him lead." Jacks words were sharp, if only
because it was a subject he was trying to avoid. Now that it was
breached he was hoping that a bit of a bite might push the Amber man to
action.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I'm quite sure I said that I would take care of Kaelyn once I had
conversed with yourself, Cyan and Andrej, Jack." Aaron responded, and
slowly stood, joints cracking as he did so.
"As for my leadership abilities," and here, he smiled somewhat. "you're
free to question them infront of everyone, if you believe I'm unworthy
of the position. You may also feel free to bring it up to Fiona, if you
believe her decision was unfitting of your personal preference."
Aaron looked to Jack with a considering gaze. He didn't seem perturbed
by Jack's words at all. More to the point, he actually seemed amused,
but that amusement merely underlined his attentions.
And he was paying considerable attention to Jack.
Yes. This is what I was looking for. Jack, despite his
tendency to be somewhat overbearing at times, is certainly a man of
action. He's one of the few I'd ever have watching my back.
As it does when he's being serious, his eye narrowed, and Aaron took a
step towards the door, gesturing with his chin out into the hallway.
"From this point on, unless I bring anyone else into the situation, anything involving Kaelyn is my business. Period. As of now, however, the four of us have things we
need to take care of. Whatever rest you three want can be had once
we're through."
Gesturing with his nice, new hand, he pointed to the door.
"Jack? Cyan?" Then a gaze to his second, "Andrej? Shall we?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jack
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jack was not worried in the slightest at the prospect of talking
to Fiona, especially since the thought had not crossed his mind.
He was worried about his old compadre Aaron. Both the possibility of
having offended the Amber man in his frustration. It was undeserved,
especially since Jack was more frustrated with himself then anyone.
“I’m sorry Aaron, Didn’t mean to go off like that,
okay so I probably did. But you certainly didn’t deserve it. I
said I’d follow you as a leader and I meant it, even without Fiona as
your back up. We just need direction here and I was getting ansy,
especially since were all looking to you for that direction now.” Jack
“Seriously if you don’t keep a direction and keep everyone appraised of
at least what you went them to know for short term plans. Well people
tend to imagine worse things then if you just lay it out.”
Jack nods to Aaron happy to have simple direction
again if nothing else “Kaelyn is yours Amber man, and I’m right behind
you.” Jack said stepping out the door first and holding it open since
he was closest.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Cyan
-----------------------------------------------------------
Cyan seems to crumble, suddenly looking suddenly lost and bereft.
Odd, for the conversation touches on nothing that might cause her to
feel so. For a long moment she stares at Jack with dull, jade
eyes, then nods.
"Yes. Best we talk, now," the Bard returns to Aaron.
Looking past him, she smiles wanly at James and Jonnee. "I hope
we can continue that conversation, sometime soon. For now, duty
calls." A feeble attempt, and her attempt at a grin is ghastly.
The Bard slips out of the room through the door Jack holds, and waits
for the others in the hall. Once they are all out, she falls into
step behind them, face carefully neutral.
Berd for his part, rouses himself enough to give a long, considering
look...at Jack's ear, of all places. Finally, with a disgusted
snort, he coils himself into a ball and pushes his head under his wing.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James takes Aaron's parting remark about Kaelyn as directed at him, which is reasonable in the circumstances, "Damn, I knew I was pushing my luck talking to Kaelyn before Aaron. Oh well."
Studying the departing quartet, "I think those guys will take a little while to settle into their new roles."
Then, "While we wait, I might as well retell my story for Dorian, unless you guys have something better to do?"
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
"I can spare a few more moments; proceed."
Dorian watches the retreating members of the so-called team, wondering
how any sort of cohesiveness is to be achieved when they wander off for
unknown reasons without explanation. It is obvious they don't consider
all members of the team to be equal.
Survival instincts begin to sink in, dominate or be dominated, the
first rule of life that he learned. His eyes narrow as his mind begins
to work.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Andrej
-----------------------------------------------------------
Andrej nods softly and follows Aaron, taking up the rear of the troupe.
His thoughts revolve around the tactival situation they are in, but
soon drops the subject as he does not have enough information to finish
the thoughts.
***This is by far the most complex enemy action I
have witnessed or heard about. Much more complicated than the plots and
battles in Wandjina.***
He shakes his head ruefully, continuing his 'sheperd duty'.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Aaron
-----------------------------------------------------------
As his three comrades left the room, Aaron paused before he followed
them. Looking to the remainder he'd leave behind, he didn't pause on
any one of them, but he made sure he had their attention before he
spoke.
"Just so you all know, we'll be back shortly. Just cool your heels here
and relax for a while while I explain my recent history to Jack and
Cyan, and get any information on the movements of our enemies that I
haven't yet heard. Once we're done, I'll get Kaelyn, and we can all get
down to business. If she returns before I do, just tell her to sit
tight."
With that final word, he departed.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Dorian
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dorian nodded slowly. He was tempted to not even be here when they
returned after that feeble attempt to act as if they weren't up to
anything. Cool your heel,
indeed! What a contemptous way to speak to fellows in arms. Cathing up
on enemy movements without sharing such knowledge; it was clear the
position he was placed in, despite whatever impressions had been given
of this mission. They were lucky only in the fact that he needed
Fiona's help.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James is quite content with this turn of events. His time in the
military has taught him that: a) your CO doesn't always tell you
everything: and b) get your rest whenever you can. It must be a
bit of a culture shock to Dorian though, going from planetary leader to
grunt.
He relaxes back into his spot by the wall and launches into his tale again...
OOC: original post is on page 10, this thread, about a quarter of the way down.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by Jonnee
-----------------------------------------------------------
Jonnee lights up another cigarette, then strolls towards the door, "I'll
head along to the galley, see if I can't get some food sent over to
us. Amber really needs to catch on to the idea of pizza delivery
services some day."
Then he's gone.
===========================================================
Re: Part 27 - Nine against the darkness (all characters) by James
-----------------------------------------------------------
James looks up as Jonnee heads for the door, briefly interrupting his story to say, "Good idea, I'll have mine with pepperoni thanks." His grin suggests his just kidding, well, mostly.
===========================================================
|
|
