In the halls of Nerv, a young man fell prey to a vicious trap.... a talented young mage had his body ravaged and soul torn... but this is not the full tale... traveling to the lands of Russia, Aibari finds a pale hope for the power he needs... Following it, he is soon lost in a world of elves and wizards... a pawn in game of chess beyond his power...
But a pawn who reaches the end of the board...
http://dracos.anifics.com/COR/Aibari/
Fearless Leader
OOC: EVIL
IC: "Weeeeee! Time to play follow the leader! La la la laa~"
With that, Tadar shot forward at an impressive speed, using various branches as spingboards to gain even more speed.
The blue cloud hurriedly flew over to Aibari, Tadar on his tail.
Fearless Leader
"You can talk now." ^_^;;;
Aibari glanced up as he finished tying a rag around his wound, eye twitching at Tadar's apparent cheer despite the battle.
"~Ahem... right... shall we go on now...?~" he asked calmly, standing up.
Tadar poked the freshly bandaged wound a couple of times, marveling at the rag.
"Wow, you managed to do this by yourself? Hey, does it hurt? Does it? I'm sorry I forgot to warn you about the extra hobgoblins, but we got out of that pretty easily, right?"
Tadar beams. ^_^
Aibari winced, "Yes, it still hurts... just not as bad as it was before."
Sighing, "Well, Tadar? Shall we be off now before those hobgoblins realize we left them behind?" he asked, walking off briskly, a slight limp in his step. He paused a bit, just long enough to see if his traveling companion would follow or not.
What did Aibari see when he check if his companion was following? To quote:
'Tadar beams. ^_^'
And he was still beaming, only 2 inches from Aibari's face, dispite any movement on the part of Aibari.
"Tee hee." ^_^
Sweatdropping, Aibari backed away a bit, staring in confusion before walking ahead, mumbling every now and then.
As the duo crested yet another woody hill they came before the towering city of Palanthas... it's beautiful ivory walls shining white, a beacon of hope in the wilderness. Tucked in and built into a mountain it provided a difficult city to attack and it's army of knights ensured the protection of the city. It's golden gate, signifying the vast wealth of the trade city was open as a steady line of traders entered from the main road through the knight overseen pass.
Fearless Leader
Aibari whistled as the city came into view, "~Very impressive,~" he said.
As he gazed longer at the ivory city though, he began to feel a slight pang of homesickness. Sighing, he looked at Tadar, as if asking if he wished to continue following as he headed off to finish his errand.
IC: "It is, isn't it. Such a nice big city, full of people and objects to discover and play with! Ne, what are you suppose to do here, again?"
Aibari shrugged, "~Suppose to deliver a message to a knight. I think it was suppose to be Sir Gunthar...~" he answered, suddenly wondering how he was suppose to find anyone in this city.
"A knight eh? We should check the barracks. They have lots of shiny weapons and armor and little throwing darts and rats among the hidden grog celler and maybe even some sword-chucks! We can ask random people on the street where the knight barracks are! Short people, fat people, thin people, tall people! The kind of people that eat Armour hot dogs! Or hows about the animals? You like animals, Aibari? I use to have this pet squirrel that liked to hide in my left pouch, except one day he left an interesting surprise in there, so I sold him to a nice but thin looking old man for his only daughter. Funny thing is, her daughter turned out to be a boy, but thats only after I sold him to some house full of women in underwear. I dunno what kind of house that was, but they were really appalled at it. It's ok though, cause I got to play hide and seek with the city guards! Though, they never got a turn to hide. I wonder why... Anyways, I found this really cool bleeding squirrel prophet, that decided to hide, while I tried to find it. I think it's brothers were trying to get the townsfolk to play, as they were all hopping all over them and using their teeth to beg them into playing. I never did find out where that squirrel went. I followed some dog down the road after that. Anyways... isn't this yours?"
Tadar holds up the parchment that contained the message, still neatly rolled up.
"Man, you sure loose stuff quickly. Good thing I had it for safekeeping, eh? So what do you want to do first? Wanna get something to eat? Are ya hungry? I've been eating waybread and honeywater for a day and a half now. I sure could use something to eat. Good thing that nice man in the mayor's robes decided to give me a reward after I found his money for him. I swear, if people didn't loose stuff so much, I won't be needed on this world at all, ne?"
Tadar beams. ^_^
Walking through the gates, Aibari facepalmed, twitching a bit. 'Study the Kender, Khalafi... You'll never know when you'll need it, Khalafi... I am such an idiot...' he thought morosely. Originally, he wrote off the Kender as playful but relatively harmless.
Of course, he'd had to run into one who seemed determined to destroy what little control he had left over himself. His luck ranked.
"All right..." Aibari grumbled, snatching back the parchment, "We'll stop somewhere for food first..."
"HALT! You there, with the kender. How dare ye bring one of those into our city. Don't you know they were outlawed in Palanthas, ten years ago?!" A burly knight shouted at Aibari, his hand on his hilt as he barred Aibari's entrance to the city..
Fearless Leader
Aibari groaned mentally, barely into the city and already he was in trouble. Sighing, he put on his best confused expression.
"Oh I is sorry, sir! Is doing something wrong?" he asked in his 'I'm just a lost tourist' voice. Already, he could feel his ancestors rolling in their graves for using such cheesy dialogue.
"Yes, you are. Bringing a thieving kender into the holy city of Palanthas. Those wretched swine are banned here. Now begone with the both of you before I toss ye in the locks."
Fearless Leader
"Hey! I'm not a thief! It's not my fault that you people keep loosing things. Honestly, you people are so difficult some times. Why we kender have a proud heritage, and now to be banned? Perposterous!"
Sighing, Tadar resigned himself to fate.
"Its ok Mr. Aibari, you go take care of what you have to do, and I'll wait out here, I guess."
Aibari winced, at a crossroads. Either he could leave the kender behind and finish his mission without anymore headaches, or he could stick with his new companion and possibly face some time in the local jails.
Sometimes, he felt like he should hate himself.
"Oh no no! Is not right to leave Nice if Crazy friend stand alone here," he continued the charade, wincing internally. He really hated this. "I is sure you can behave for today, yes?"
Forget rolling. His ancestors were probably doing somersaults that trapeze artists would envy.
The guard blinked for a moment, attempting to decipher Aibari's horrible speaking patterns.
"Okay.... you seem to be pretty stupid. I'll say this slowly. "N-O K-E-N-D-E-R I-N P-A-L-A-N-T-H-A-S!" None, not a single one allowed. No exceptions. Now move your country bum and your kender out of my sights before I toss you both in jail for a night."
Fearless Leader
"Its not like you're one to talk, Mr. Guard. I mean, you have one of the most basic jobs. Guarding the gate. Any monkey can do you're job at about your same efficiancy. Now you bully weary travelers to make yourself feel big? What, you suffer from a small penis or something? Can't get chicks? Were you so ugly as a child that your mom sent you away to guard school?"
OOC: There are times to use the kender taunt... and then there are times to get killed.
oh well.... it's ic at least.
IC:
"Why....YOU!" Drawing a glowing purple sword the guard nearly slashed at the kender before he was restrained by a fellow guard. Two more came up beside him, drawing similarily glowing blades. One of them stated, "Leave now."
Fearless Leader
Aibari sighed in annoyance. Try to be nice and this is what happens. "All right, sirs..." he reluctantly bowed an apology and walked out of sight.
Sighing once again, he noted that his five minutes of humiliation was about to get worse.
Tadar followed behind, a moment of silence (odd for a kender).
"I'm... sorry about that, I know you have to get into the city and deliver your message... I know! You can throw spells, right? If you got one that hides you, you can use that. I can find my own way in later, or just stick out here for a while. What do you say?"
A soft chuckle emanated from Aibari's position, completely out of place from what had just happened. "Oh, don't worry about me Tadar. I got a plan for this," he said calmly, an evil grin spreading across his face.
He smiled towards his traveling companion. "By the way, thanks for that help you gave back during that ambush... don't think I'm ungrateful or anything, but I think it would be better if you go home now," sighing, he added, "Besides, I have to finish this myself."
"Home is... far away. It'd be inconvinient to go home right now, and besides, I still want to continue my adventure... besides, I wanna see what you'll do."
Sweatdropping, Aibari casually waved it off, "Oh, it's nothing of importance. Besides, I'm sure there are plenty of other adventurers that can use your skills to find lost things, Tadar." he said, smiling.
"Oh I'm sure there are, but thoes aren't that improtant right now. Come on, I wanna see what you'll do, to get into the city."
"But Tadar! How could you even think such a thing when millions of lives out there depend on you!" Aibari lamented in mock shock.
"Here I am, simply delivering a letter, when some poor, old widow has to struggle to raise her children since the father ran away with their savings! When kingdoms are collasping because a thief stole the royal treasures! How can you think that those aren't important?" dabbing a tear from his eye, he asked sadly, "Are you truly that heartless?"
"Just cause I'm a kender doesn't mean I'm stupid. Jeez, the total lack of respect you have for me is rather appalling, Mr. Aibari. I'd have though that you of all people would be above the racism, but I guess I'm wrong. In any case, I'm still curious to see what you do, so here I stay."
"...you're right, Tadar. And I appologize," Aibari said, bowing his head. "I guess I'm still a bit nervous about messing up since that ambush."
"And now there's this business with the guards stopping travellers, despite the fact they should be especting a messenger soon..."
He narrowed his eyes, glancing up to the sky, "It's obvious someone doesn't want this delivered... but who...?" he asked, quietly mulling over the puzzle.
"Probably someone that holds quite a bit of sway in city affairs. So, do you wanna try to sneak in? Or do you have some magi-zard techno sorcerous plan to get us in?"
"Well Tadar, this plan requires us to split up a bit," Aibari explained. "What I need you to do is to distract as many of those guards as you can so they are forced to change shifts. Then I can try to go through the gates again when new guards come in that have not seen me yet."
OOC: O_o
IC: "No problem! I gotcha covered!"
Scurrying down to where the guardpost was, Tadar non-chanlantly picked up a rock, put in in his hoopak, and slung it right between a guard's eyes. (Guard from earlier)
Given that as previously described there was little 'cover' within shooting distance, the guards at the top of the battlements promptly trained their crossbows on Tadar's head and fired, sending him down dead to the floor. Crossbow bolts easily penetrating his unshielded head.
Two other guards quickly took their unconscious but alive brethern, saved by his steel helmet, to the infirmary.
Tadar lay, a bloody mess on the floor, as the merchants cheered the fall of an obvious brigand.
Fearless Leader
Aibari smacked his head, not believing that Tadar would rush out like that...
...then flinched as he watched his late comrade fall before the arrows. "..."
Sighing, Aibari spared a moment to pray for the departed. When he finished, he noted wryly that it seems a plan "c" was required.
Moments later...
A young, thin, pale looking girl stumbled into sight, trying to adjust her oversized travelling clothes. Brushing a stray lock of blue hair out of her eyes, she smiled nervously to the guards.
"Uhm... hello? Is this Palanthas?" Reiko asked, readjusting her belt.
A burly blond man in armor stepped up to the young Reiko, towering well above her. "Yes it is m'am. State your business."
Fearless Leader
Looking up at the taller man, Reiko gulped, then tried to give her friendliest smile. "Uhm... I have a message for Sir Gunthur from my Shalafi, Ramzour," she explained.
"Hum... wait... Let me get my captain." The tall man ran off and returned leading a broader chested older man who was slightly shorter than him. The captain's brown eyes shone seriously as he stalked out towards Reiko.
"Madam, I am told you bear a message for Sir Gunthar? From the archmagus Ramzour? May I see any proof of your claim?"
Fearless Leader
Nodding, Reiko brought out the parchment holding the message, Ramzours seal still intact despite the rough journey it has been through.
OOC: There comes a tyme...^_^*hops around*
IC:
"This is indeed the seal of Archmagus Ramzour of the silvery city. Your words must be true. I apologize for any harsh greetings you may have received." The guard captain bowed before young girl. "I will see you to the waiting area and have Lord Gunthar contacted immediately.... if you will please follow me."
Gesturing to a retinue of men, which quickly formed a protective formation around Reiko, the guard captain prepared to lead her off.
Fearless leader
Reiko smiled and thanked him, then followed closely, not wanting to get lost.
The guards lead her through the vast and lively city. children played in the streets as vendors hawked their wares all over the place. Passing the simple ivory temple of Paladine, a sense of peace filled the air.
Passing that they came to the towering center of government, home of Lord Palanthas, the heridery lord of the city. Talking with the butler swiftly, the guard captain turned to Reiko, "Madam mage, if it pleases you, you may wait here while I send a runner to go get Lord Gunthar. Lord Palanthas also should likely hear whatever news this is."
Fearless Leader
"Okay," Reiko nodded, watching the captain walk off before turning her attention to the butler.
"Welcome Lady Magus, If you will follow me." The butler opened the door and lead her through the ostentatious lower floors, to the stairway curling up to the higher floors. Occassionally stunning scenes of Palanthas can be seen through windows. Reaching one of the top floors, the butler opened a fine oak door to a beautiful waiting room. Several fancy carved wood seats sat around a medium sized ivory table. A beautiful couch sat alongside it. From every side beautiful views of Palanthas could be seen.... but one that was covered by a thick silk covering drew the eyes by it's.....well, inappropriateness.
"if you will wait here, I am certain the Lords will arrive shortly."
Fearless Leader
Reiko nodded, smiling serenly as she took a seat in one of the many wooden seats, and waited patiently.
a few minutes later a door opened from the other end revealing a portly balding black haired man dressed in fine silks. He strode into the room proudly.
Fearless Leader
Reiko stood up, "Are you Lord Palanthas?" she asked, bowing slightly in respect.
OOC: I blur with speed
IC:
"That I am. And who are you Lady magus who comes with the seal of the Archmagus Ramzour?"
Fearless Leader
"Well, my friends call me Reiko," she answered, smiling serenely. "Do you know when Sir Gunthur will arrive? I have to give this to him directly."
OOC: GO Byayayayaya ^_^
IC:
"He should be here shortly, Lady Reiko. Would you like some wine while we wait?" Sitting Lord Palanthas gestured to a well dressed servant who brought out a crystal vase filled with with what appeared to be fine wine. "It's a fine elven brew, bought from Silvenesti."
Fearless Leader
"I'm sorry," Reiko blushed, though bowed graciously at the offer, "But I don't like to drink."
"Ah... such a pity. Some water then? or juice?"
The servant filled a small crystal cup with the wine he'd brought in for the lord as he sat down.
Fearless Leader
"Juice would be nice," Reiko agreed.
OOC: must type faster
IC:
The servant poured some juice into another crystal cup for Reiko. "So Lady Reiko, while we wait, why not tell me a bit about yourself. Is this your first time to our fine city?"
Fearless Leader
Taking a sip, Reiko nodded in response. "Oh yes. I haven't been out much since I arrived and I have to say, you have a wonderful city."
The door which Reiko had come through opened, revealing a pair of powerful young men who stepped to the side of the door revealing...
A powerfully built older man, his hands callused from years of warfare. His brown hair flecked with grey and a proud mustache grooming his noble face. Bright green eyes shone with intelligence. Dressed in fine armor he entered the room as his guards announced him. "Lord Gunthar, Lord Knight of the Knights of Solomania"
Fearless Leader
Reiko glanced at the new commer, sipping her juice before responding. "Oh hello. So you are Sir Gunthar then?" she asked, blinking curiously.
"Aye and you must be Lady Reiko who has a missive from the Archmagus Ramzour?"
Fearless Leader
"Yes. Here you go." Handing him the message, Reiko bowed respectfully to the knight.
OOC: keep yourself..
IC:
Opening the missive, Gunthar's face quickly grew grim as he read. "This is very fell news indeed. Lord Palanthas, I declare a state of emergency, I will need your full support. According to this missive a massive army of orcs has been ammassing in the mountains to the west of here, cloaked by various anti-scrying magic. We can expect an attack within the next couple of days."
"My lord Paladine... this is horrible. It is the peak of the trading season. You have my full support Lord Gunthar."
Fearless Leader
Reaction post go!
"Oh dear. Orcs?" Reiko fretted a bit, "Do you think they might have something to do with the hobgoblins I ran into on my way here? They did seem determined to stop me for some reason."
"Hobgoblins? This far afield already? Indeed it's worse than I suspected. We are much indebted to you for bringing this to us." Lord Gunthar bellowed.
Fearless Leader
Curious, she wondered, "Well, if the hobgoblins and orcs are somehow connected, then do you think they're following someone's orders as well?"
"Yes, it would have to be that fiend Toede. I must go immediately to request more supplies." Gunthar all but flew from the room.
"By Paladine, it must be bad to get Lord Gunthar in such a huff... This is terrible... absolutely terrible."
Fearless Leader
"Well I'm sure it will turn out okay," Reiko tried to reassure Palanthas, "He IS the captain of the knights after all."
OOC: Another one bites the...
IC:
"Yes....you're right. Lord Gunthar is the most talented general outside of Silverymoon. But what of you Lady Reiko? What will you do?'
Fearless Leader
"Well, I'm not too sure," Reiko admitted. "I should go back, but with what's going to happen soon, I -- Ooh! I don't know what to do."
Looking concerned, she asked, "Do you want me to stay and help?"
OOC: Can the forum overheat?
IC:
"Would you indeed lend us your powers Lady Reiko? The student of Ramzour would certainly be a moral booster for the people."
Fearless Leader
Reiko smiled and nodded. "Sure. It'll probably take a day at most for them to reach the city. Plenty of time for me to prepare."
OOC:Let's live for today
IC:
"Thank you, we will provide you with housing and food. Reingard, please lead Lady Reiko to our finest guest house." Lord Palanthas smiled congenially.
"If you will Madam." the butler reappeared near the door.
Fearless Leader
Reiko blushed, thanked Palanthas, then followed the butler.
Leading Reiko down the stairs, the butler left the house and came to a magnificiant smaller house nearby. Stopping he opened the door to the dwelling.....
Fearless Leader
Chance to react
"Wow! This -- this is too much for me!" she tried to politely refuse. "I'm sure I don't deserve all of this."
"Madam, this is what the Lord of Palanthas ordered."
Fearless leader
Fretting a bit, Reiko reluctantly nodded. "Okay, I like to thank you and Palanthas for the hospitality then."
"I am at your service Madam." The butler bowed, waiting for her to enter.
Fearless Leader
Reiko entered the house, slightly embarrassed at all this.
Inside a few maids waited to serve Reiko's whims.
Elsewhere....
Gishas overlooked his spell components. With the assistance of the master that toad's troops should take Palanthas, but the master wanted to be sure this bastion fell. The price for failure would be harsh.
Outside the hobgoblins and orcs slept, hidden by the powerful weaves of the master.
Fearless Leader
Reiko blinked, "Uhm... err... would you mind, that is if it isn't too much trouble, if I have a bit of time to myself?" she asked politely.
OOC:ouch, few minute explanation of all of BoF hurt head
IC:
Blinking in surprise, the maids froze for a second looking to an older maid for guidance. "Certainly, Lady Reiko."
Quickly the maids left the room.
Fearless Leader
Waiting until the last maid left, Reiko sighed and slumped down in a chair. "Alone at last," she said.
"Well it's about bloody time," she complained in a distinctly male voice. "I hope you remembered to tell them?"
"..."
"You didn't tell them, did you?" another female voice asked.
"...I forgot," Reiko said, sighing.
"...great... now what?" Aibari voice asked.
"We sleep. I ain't dealing with this mess," Rei affirmed. Aibari grumbled something unintelligible as Reiko agreed with Rei that resting would be for the best.
The sun set and gradually began to rise... sleepily the population of Palanthas arose from their beds. Unaware at large of the coming conflict.
fearless Leader
Yawning, Reiko stretched and got out of bed. "Well today's the day. Oh, I hope we're ready for this," she fretted as she got cleaned up and left to meet with Palanthas and Gunthar.
OOC: my poor head -.-
IC:
Near the door, the butler awaited Lady Reiko.
Fearless Leader
Smiling as she exited, Reiko greeted the butler. "Do you know where Palanthas and Gunthar are meeting this morning?"
"Yes madam, I have orders to lead you there after breakfast."
heading towards a reception room, the butler revealed a flamboyant Palanthian breakfast.
Fearless Leader
Reiko's eyes widened in awe, not quite use to having so much food available. "Where are Palanthas and the others?" she asked, assuming the group would join in soon.
ooc;I move at GM speed
IC:
"Lord Palanthas ordered that you receive the utmost courtesy. He regrets he cannot join you as he is meeting with the merchant guilds this morning."
Fearless Leader
"Oh. Well will anybody be joining?" she asked curiously.
"No Lady Reiko, all of this is for you."
Fearless Leader
Reiko blinked, looked back at the table, and blinked again. "Uhm... err... ... okay then," she said, sitting down and eating reluctantly. Even if she was eating for three, can she possibly finish it all?
Finishing what she could of the meal, she looked at the butler and asked where the meeting would be.
"It will be a few hours until Lord Palanthas is done with his meeting. You can meet Lord Gunthar if you wish, or I could show you around our city."
Fearless leader
"Well... I suppose there's enough time for a tour," Reiko conceded.
"Certainly Lady Reiko." Holding the door open for Reiko, the butler waited for her to exit the house.
Fearless Leader
Reiko stepped out and glanced around, wondering what she'll be shown today.
Walking towards the bazaar, the butler proceeded to point out various places around Palanthas...
"And here.....to your left....Oh...didn't realize we'd gone this far east. Sorry Lady Reiko." Hurriedly the butler tried to usher Lady Reiko away from the street he was pointing down.
Fearless Leader
Reiko blinked, glancing curiously at the street as she was pushed away, and making a note to check it out when she had free time.
Guiding Reiko around the bazaar, the butler stopped for a moment. "Would you like to go to Higon's Tower now and meet Lord Gunthar?"
Fearless Leader
Reiko, glancing back to the butler, nodded and motioned to lead the way.
OOC: Inspiration lackin -.-
IC:
Leading towards the east side of the city, the butler lead her to a giant tower.
"State your business."
"I am the butler Reinhart, leading Lady Reiko to meet with Lord Gunthar."
"Proceed."
Leading the way inside, the two soon came to a room with Lord Gunthar pouring over maps surrounded by a few high ranking knights.
Fearless Leader
Walking into the room, Reiko winced as Aibari released another pang of hopesickness. The war room apparently reminding him of the old days. Though she had never actually been there, the memories they shared, tainted as they were, usually remained vivid enough to let her know how he felt sometimes. Sighing as she pressed down the negative emotions for later, she peered over some maps to see what was being planned.
"Ah, Lady Reiko, welcome. I presume you are willing to directly add your magic to the cause of defending Palanthas?" Lord Gunthar turned and questioned.
Fearless Leader
Reiko nodded, "I don't know how much help I can provide, but I'll give you all the help I can."
OOC: I am not doing Major General song....nope.
IC:
"Thank you for you aid. I will have that unit hand picked for you." Lord Gunthar finished.
"Lady Reiko, Lord Palanthas did wish to speak with you today if you have the time." Reinhart made himself once more noticiable from the back of the room.
Fearless Leader
"Okay," Reiko acknowledged, then followed Reinhart.
OOC: Skipping the walk
IC:
Opening the door, Reinhart led Lady Reiko to the same room as yesterday. Notably the window that had been covered before was still covered despite it being a different time of day.
"I will go personally inform Lord Palanthas of your arrival. By your will..." Reinhart swiftly left the room.
Fearless leader
Reiko sighed boredly, and plopped down into a seat and sat there, waiting patiently.
OOC: "Son can you play me a melody. I'm not really sure how it goes, but it's sad and it's sweet and I knew it complete...when I wore a younger man's clothes." ^_^
IC:
The door opened beside her, revealing Lord Palanthas. "Good day, Lady Reiko."
Fearless leader
Reiko bowed from her seat. "G'day, Lord Palanthas. What will you be needing from me today?"
"It is a pleasure Lady Reiko. I trust that my butler, Reinhart, showed you around our pleasant city?"
Fearless Leader
"Oh yes." Reiko nodded. "You have a very nice city."
"Excellent Madam. And I trust your quarters were adequate?"
Fearless Leader
"Yes they were, thank you." Reiko smiled, then said, "So what will you be needing me to do today then?"
"If I may be blunt Lady Reiko, your presence at the next meeting of the guildsmasters would go far towards both calming spirits and affirming the validility of the threat."
Fearless Leader
Reiko blinked in confusion. "But -- that is to say -- I'm not sure I can. I'm not a good speech giver, I'm afraid," she explained in embarrassment.
"Just the presence of Archmagus Ramzour's protege would go far towards smoothing out the preparations."
Fearless Leader
"Well -- all right." Reiko nodded relunctantly, then firmed herself so she didn't seem too underconfident.
"Thank you Lady Reiko. This is much appriciated."
Fearless Leader
"Pardon, Lord Palanthas, but -- Would you mind telling me where the meeting will take place?" asked Reiko.
OOC: First thing I remember.....
IC:
"It will be held in the grand hall by the bazaar. It is where all important meetings concerning the entire city are held."
Fearless Leader
"All right." Reiko sat up and bowed politely to Palanthas. "I'll be there first thing tomorrow morning," she said. "I hope you don't find me rude, but I think I'll return to the guest house now."
"Oh.....of course Lady Reiko. Reinhart, show the lady out."
Fearless Leader
Making sure that they were alone, Reiko sighed and relax as her hand came up to massage a headache.
"You still didn't tell them, did you," accused Aibari in annoyance.
"What did you expect? 'Hi! I'm really the idiot that was here earlier with that kender and I'm only pretending to be a girl because I already humiliated myself,'" retorted Rei.
Aibari growled in return, but didn't dispute what was said.
"So what should we do now?" asked Reiko, trying to diffuse the tension.
Aibari sighed. "Well how about that street they made us avoid? Seemed rather suspicious, it did."
"What's so suspicious? THey could have been fixing the road or something," countered Rei.
"...yeah right. It was a walking path. Do you think people are going to complain about a little dirt?" Aibari rolled his eyes, and added. "Besides, looked more like their hiding something to me."
"You're just paranoid, Aibari," inputted Reiko, sensing another conflict.
Aibari shrugged. "It's how I lived to be as old as I am."
Rei sighed. "You're not going to drop it, are you?"
"Nope."
With great reluctance, the others agreed to check out the area, just in case.
Retracing her steps that morning, Reiko felt a perverting cold filling her bones as she arrived at where the butler had stopped her before. The night air was particularly cold in Palanthas at this time of year. Most the shops around here were curiously abandoned. Well maintained, but they showed no other signs of being lived in.
The cold bit beyond the skin, chilling the bone and soul. Almost supernatural.
Fearless Leader
"Okay, we checked," said Reiko, nervously glancing down the deserted street. "Nothing here. Can we go back now?"
Her eye twitched, signally a slight change. "Are you sure we're the same person?" asked Aibari, feeling slightly annoyed at all the latest twists in life. "Look, if you prefer, I'll check things out myself."
Feeling a nod, Aibari took over and entered the street, a feral grin on her face. The feel of andrenaline while facing unknown foes, going against the odds, living on the edge. Yes, it's great to be back in the element.
As Aibari walked in female form down the empty streets, it became even more vivid. The freezing cold. The lack of any life. Death reigned here. He was not welcome. Not Welcome at all.
Not even a rat was seen. The place was completely devoid of life. Turning a corner it was visible. A beautiful groove of black trees standing as if silent guardians to something beyond them. A rusted gate could just barely be seen deep within the forest, something clad in black hanging from the top of it's spiked gate. The cold fear was overpowering. Tearing at the soul. Draining the will to live.
Magic was here... and it was angry.
Rising from the very center of the grove was a magnificant tower. It's stones the darkest night, only visible against the backdrop of the stars by the opaque nature of it's being.
Fearless Leader
A cold breeze wafted along the area, as Aibari rubbed her arms together to fight the biting cold. "Cheery little place," she muttered sarcastically, gazing up at the dark tower.
Strangely enough, she was almost expecting something like this. A city this perfect? No way in hades that it could be real.
Feeling her curiousity sated for the moment, Aibari left the area, making a note to ask about it, as she headed back to the guest house.
After going to sleep, Aibari awakened to a knocking on her door. Light streamed impacting against the fancy curtains in the room.
Fearless Leader
Reiko took over, rubbing the sleep from her eyes after the groups excursion the night before, and answered the door.
The butler, Reinhart, stood at attention outside. "Your morning meal is ready milady. Additionally, milord Palanthas has provided garments for you to choose from for meeting with the guild heads."
Fearless Leader
Reiko nodded in thanks. "I'll be right with you," she said, stiffling a small yawn. She waited until he left (and politely decided it best not to wake Aibari yet), and got dressed. Afterwards, she ate the provided meal as the others groggily awakened.
Finished, she followed Reinhart to Palanthas's quarters.
"Greetings Lady Reiko, I hope you slept well?" Lord Palanthas met her at the door of his house.
Fearless Leader
"Oh yes, very well. Thank you." Reiko smiled and bowed in greeting.
"You've arrived just in time. My carriage will take us to the meeting hall." Climbing aboard a luxurious black carriage, Lord Palanthas extended his hand to Lady Reiko to assist her.
Fearless Leader
Reiko took his hand and entered the carraige nervously, hoping that she didn't have to say much.
Silently the two traveled to the bazaar, the silent morning beckoning ominiously.
The carriage slowly came to a stop outside a large building towards the center of the bazaar. Reinhart opened the door and stood to the side, waiting for the two to disembark.
Fearless Leader
Leaving the carraige, Reiko gazed up at the grand bazaar in complete awe, though she politely kept herself from gaping. Leaving her mouth open like that might have been rude.
Moments later, Reiko found herself facing what was an odd assortment of guildmasters. All older men, they bickered angrily about what should be done. The presiding voice was clear, despite Lord Palanthas' attempts to garner order.
"This is the middle of the trading season, you are blocking trade on the word of some girl?"
Fearless Leader
"Because there really is an assault happening soon," interupted Reiko, bowing to Palanthas in apology. "And I am not 'some girl' as you eloquently put it."
"Really? And where's your proof lass? For all we know you forged that letter from the Arch mage. We haven't seen even as much as a goblin in months. And even if they did attack, no force has ever taken Palanthas."
Fearless Leader
"Well I'll have you know I was attacked by those goblins in the woods on my way here," Reiko said, though she knew she was lacking any real evidence. "And what reason would I have in forging my Shalafi's handwritting?"
Another wrinkled face retorted with sarcastic ignorance, "Industrial SABOTOGE that's what! You are trying to weaken the city by ruining the prime trading season, leaving it poorer afterwards!"
Fearless Leader
Reiko stared at the old man, spittle flying from his face as he yelled at her. "Interesting theory, but, for what purpose do I have to do such a thing?"
"Bah, redirected traffic would take their goods to other trading cities. Any number of them would gladly hire an spy to create such turmoil. I tell you Lord Palanthas, jail her for the good of us all!"
Fearless Leader
Reiko blinked, silently listening and nodding her head to a voice that only she could hear. Suddenly, she sniffled at the accusasion, tears welling in her eyes as she turned on the "charm" as advised by the others. "Do you really think I could do something like that?" she asked sadly, looking ready to burst into crying fit.
OOC: Charm spells and you ^_^
IC:
Several of the faces suddenly looked contrite, the resistance fading slightly as the spell effected them. But a few glared, unwavering. "Of course. Lord Palanthas, I call for her immediate jailing", one particularly irate fellow retorted.
Fearless Leader
"Why are you so mean?" Reiko asked, her lower lip trembling slightly. "Why can't you believe that I'm only trying to help you out?"
"Um...um..." Lord Palanthas was torn, he trusted the girl but... he did have a responsibility to his people...but...
"No, I can't. Where is your proof? You claim to be the apprentice of the great archmage. You might be good at conning peoples hearts but that won't save you saboteur!"
Fearless Leader
Reiko blinked, cocking her head slightly as she regarded the irritable old man. "Is this sufficient evidence, sir?" she asked politely, holding her palm up. A small, glowing sphere hovering over her hand.
"Er...n.."
"That's enough of that." Lord Palanthas thundered. "What more proof could you want? She bears a message with his seal and has demonstrated magical prowess. A wizardress wouldn't be able to hide if she dared forge an Archmagus' sigil."
"Grrr...I don't trust her... but you have a point. Alright "Lady Reiko"... I'll keep my eye on you." The pudgy merchant managed to look menacing.
Fearless Leader
Reiko nodded, giving her best, friendly smile before turning to Palanthas. "Is there any news yet from Sir Gunthar's scouting party?"
OOC: there is something to be said for dramatic timing.
And working in class
IC:
"I-" Lord Palanthas began
Suddenly the doorway was flung open, the merchants promptly rising in anger at the disturbance. A tall soldier with penetrating blue eyes and a cropped black hair, clothed in polished chainmail, the knights symbol on his breast, stalked towards Palanthas purposely. Whispering to Lord Palanthas, whose face grew grave and pale, he nodded and stood back, allowing the Lord to announce the grim news.
"That fiends forces are on the warmarch, outnumbering us nearly two to one. I will need your full support in this matter. Lady Reiko, Knight Darius request that you accompany him to Lord Gunthar's war chambers immediately."
Fearless Leader
Reiko looked at Palanthas, a bit surprised at the sudden, grim news. "Of course, I'll be glad to help in any way." She nodded at him and left to the war chambers as instructed.
Sir Darius set a swift pace as he traveled through the city. The citizens quickly getting out of his way at the intent gaze in his eyes and the sight of the large man moving towards them. Arriving at the knight's stronghold, Sir Darius opened the door, awaiting the shorter strides of Lady Reiko.
Fearless Leader
Reiko followed in at a brisk pace, a little tired since she had tried to keep up with Sir Darius. She smiled in thanks since he was patient enough to wait for here and went inside the stronghold.
Stepping after Lady Reiko, Sir Darius lead them further, all the way to Lord Gunthar's side.
"I have brought the Magus as you ordered. What are your commands Lord Gunthar."
Fearless leader
this is just to give you a chance to act wen if you want to
OOC: You have 30 knights, Sir Darius, and yourself.
IC:
"Thank you for coming. As Sir Darius informed you we are facing significant forces. I have no doubt in our victory though over these forces as my knights are better trained and it would take at least thrice again these numbers to take Palanthas. I know this. And... as squelmish as Toede can be... that fat puck faced excuse for a general wouldn't waste his troops without some plan. I want you to be ready for whatever trick he may have up his sleeve. Sir Darius will be commanding the knights in your unit. He's one of my most trustworthy commanders."
Fearless Leader
Reiko acknowledged Gunthar, then turned to Darius, bowing slightly. "I know I don't look like much, but I'll be honored to fight along side you and your men."
Sir Darius grimaced. "I...do not like magic. But it is the order of my lord that I protect you. And therefore my sword is at your service."
Fearless leader
Reiko acknowledged this, though seemed a bit disappointed none-the-less. "Well, in any case, we should get to our places soon and wait for them."
"We are actually to wait here with Lord Gunthar, until we figure out where we are needed. It wouldn't do for us to be swamped at the front lines when Lord Toede's real plan is revealed."
Fearless Leader
Reiko looked a bit embarrassed at her blunder, but nodded, waiting quietly for their orders.
The sounds of battle grew outside, war machines being brought to the fore as the knights met their foes at the battlements. The sounds of screaming and death reached even the War Room in the Knight's tower. Suddenly a runner rushed in with news. Hurrying to Lord Gunther he quickly relayed his message. Gunthar nodded, responding swiftly in low tones and sending the runner off again.
He turned to Lady Reiko, a grim look on his face, "It appears my premonition was correct..."
Fearless leader
will continue tom...later today after I sleep
Gunthar continued...
"Behind the city, in the mountains there are several passageways that were sealed off from when the dwarves lived in this land. It appears a small squadron is attempting to use an unsealed one to attack us from behind. I need you to go eliminate that avenue of attack, Lady Reiko."
Fearless Leader
Reiko nodded, her features firming slightly. "I won't let you down," she promised, turning to Darius and asking him to lead the way.
Sir Darius nodded, turning as he gestured to his troops which formed a loose formation around the lady magus.
Moving out into the streets, they moved hastily towards the north end of the city, to the old dwarven mines which were mainly sealed off. Coming to the blocked main passageway, Sir Darius ordered his men to begin making an opening.
Fearless Leader
Almost ten minutes later, the men at arms had managed to clear the passageway. Their ceaseless work had proceeded in almost complete silence as they sweated for their city. Before them was opened a gaping cavern, almost a wall of darkness accented against the bright city to their backs.
Fearless Leader
opportunity to act if you wish
As the soldiers cleared the last of the debris, Reiko finished casting her Light spell, illuminating the dark tunnels. "I hope this helps." Wouldn't do for them to busy themselves with holding torches instead of fighting enemies.
Sir Darius' eyes narrowed at the usage of magic. Turning he gestured his men forward into the now lit cavern...
Fearless Leader
Work work work.dammit
The small kobold sniffed. There was magic afoot. Dressed in all grey, the short goblinkin blended in well with the stone around him. The goblins ahead of him knowing better than to question why they were being lead by a kobold. The city shouldn't be much more than ten minutes further.
Catching them between a pincher from behind was a brilliant idea. The little kobold smiled cruelly having suggested it to Lord Toede himself.
Gishas narrowed his cruel black eyes. He would bring glory to the dark god Nezreal, the many faced. The human scum who had populated this realm for so long would finally be driven out and crushed like the pink-skinned pigs they were.
But... a mage in Palanthas? His senses did not lead him wrong. Ahead further in the caverns someone was using magic. Weak magic...but magic none the less.
Gesturing to the walls, his silently moving minions appeared. The stupid goblins flinched in fear. They knew true power those cowardly cousins of his. But they would serve his purpose.
In a squeaky voice the kobold gestured them forward again. He would be sufficient for whatever magical might Palanthas might have up it's sleeve.
Fearless Leader
Reiko frowned as a feeling of anticipation settled on her. Much like she, or rather Aibari, used to get before a fight. She knew that Darius disliked her use of magic, but it was all that she had to help him with. Sighing, she secretly casted "See Invisible", maintaining it for as long as it took them to search for the enemy.
Despite her precaution, the feeling still persisted, leading her to believe that perhaps there was more out there then she suspected. Frowning, she casted "Detect Magic" to get a better idea of what they would be facing.
Reiko sensed magic further away in the cavern, heading towards them.
Fearless Leader
Reiko frowned, signalling Darius to stop. "There's something wrong here," she warned. "Whatever's coming this way is using... magic."
Sir Darius blinked, gesturing to his men to stop, encircling where they were in a defensive organization. "Toede's employed black magic against us?" He barked in distaste.
Fearless Leader
Reiko pondered, trying to think of what can be done with this new information. "Darius?" she asked. "Was there any specific reason these caves were shut down?"
"They were mined out and became relatively unprofitable. We could have gone deeper but there was no reason to."
Fearless Leader
"There were no accidents or legends attributed to these mines?"
"There are a few legends tied to the city of Palanthas. None with these mines though. Many though with mages." Darius looks unhappy.
Fearless Leader
Reiko sighed, So much for that idea.
"This formerly was a mine, so -- are there alternate paths through here?"
"Yes, of course. Though most are deeper into the mine. Why do you ask?"
Fearless Leader
"Well, I don't know if it would be possible, but do you think we can split the troops and have one of the groups go around for a pincer manuver? That way, we can trap them and catch the enemies' undefended backs?"
"An interesting idea, but neither myself nor my men know this cavern well enough to know which of the many sidetrails would lead around best."
Fearless Leader
"A pity then," sighed Reiko, then she glanced up at the ceiling in thought.
"Is this tunnel the only exit to Palanthas? Or do all the tunnels lead to their own to Palanthas?"
"Only the major tunnels do. This one is by far the most direct."
Fearless Leader
"Well, if this is the most direct, then would completely sealing this tunnel force them to go a more roundabout route and weaken them or even delay them?"
"Indeed but it would take weeks to completely block off this cavern."
Fearless Leader
"Perhaps," Reiko admitted, still lost in thought. "Darius? If it were possible to seal off this tunnel, how long do you think it would stall the enemy?"
"Provided we were able to seal the tunnel, then it would take roughly an extra hour of travel to backtrack to a new tunnel and come around."
Fearless Leader
Reiko nodded. "It'll do. Darius, please take your men back to the entrance. I'll rejoin you as soon as I finish the preparations."
Darius raises an eyebrow at that, but, he was told to follow orders. "Yes, Lady Reiko." Turning he gestured to his men, retreating back to the outside of the cavern.
In the distance the advance of the goblin troop continued unrestrained. Nothing barred their path. The feeling of the magic getting close could be sensed by Reiko.
Fearless Leader