Zaphiel started slowly, saying, "You must forgive me, I know not how much you know about this land or its history. Also, our records don't speak much of the war, except to say how horrible and destructive magic was. The war of magic depopulated the world, and those who one supposedly formed "The Order" and swore off all magic except for healing. Te strongest and best of "The Chosen" sacrificed their lives for victory, while those of us of weaker nature were left to tend the people, the other races, and help them prosper in the new world."
He paused again. "I believe it's almost all lies." He sighed and paused again for a moment. "The chosen, who lead the towns as Arkanel does, are not born on the continent. At least I don't believe so. Lafiel calls me her father, but she is not my biological daughter, I just raised her when the monks brought her to Glendale." He looked fondly at Lafiel.
"I escaped my right of adulthood," he frowned. "Escaped is the wrong word. I resisted my trial. The current chosen, Arkanel, myself, others on this continent are the weakest of the race of magic users that won the war. They once ruled openly, but still rule today. In response to the war, they set up the people as breeding stock. Breeding for experiments, breeding for their powers, and cattle for the magic that keeps this continent perpetually subjugated to them, without knowing. I somehow resisted the compulsion to believe this way of things is right. I shuddered as I participated in the rites of decay, where those over forty, and not of the chosen, are sent to fulfill their real purpose, as guinea pigs and cattle."
"That's horrible!" Miaka cried out, blanching. She hadn't seen anyone over forty in Arkanel's town, now that she thought of it, but she never gave it a second thought before.
Zaphiel nodded. "That they would set up a world for their 'cattle' speaks ill of my brethren. I know. I started training in secret, finding those who would fight with me. I intend to first destroy the means by which they control us, and prevent the people from using magic. Once this is accomplished, if it can be accomplished, I have no doubt their wrath will be severe. That is what we are training for, that is what this small force is intended for. Arkanel fears our success, he fears the reprisals it will cause, but I think he most of all fears the loss of his way of life."
"How did you manage to resist your rite of adulthood?" Miaka asked curiously.
"I was always a bit of a troublemaker, and extremely curious when I was growing up. Through trial and error, I learned to impose my will upon others, but more importantly to shield myself from such effects. There are technigues that can be used to harden the mind, and more importantly, clear the mind of ill effects after they've been imposed. I used some of those techniques before the rites, hoping that would be enough. Unfortunately, they weren't, but I had a back-up plan for just such an occurrence."
Miaka noticed a self-satisfied smirk play over Zaphiel's face as he spoke.
"I had left myself a note, a set of instructions for clearing the mind. I had hoped that enough of my old self would still exist, and it did. I was able to remove the compulsions they had placed upon me, allowing me to remember most of what I had seen, and more importantly, what I truly believed about the situation."
Miaka nodded thoughtfully, having had intimate experience with such compulsions. "Could you describe what happened in more detail? How the compulsion was made, and what were the steps you took to shrug it off?"
Zaphiel looked at the girl intently, "How much do you know about the mind? It's workings? And most importantly placing magic upon the mind?"
"Not much." Miaka shrugged. "Yui-chan's the bright one." Shifting uncomfortably in her seat, she said, "The ultimate compulsion that exists in Konan is done with a magical seed. They feed it to someone, and his personality changes completely... it even locks away his memories." Miaka shrugged. "That might be why it works so well, in part."
"It sounds similar to what we undergo. I thought I could hide part of my mind from their probes, overwriting their orders and keeping my memories in tact, but they were ready for my attempts. I don't know how they bypassed the magic I had cast on myself. Had they found the spells, hidden as I thought I had, or had they just destroyed them in their processing. I doubt I'll ever know." He sighed and took a drink.
"I was young, headstrong, and believed myself invincible. Years later I started this movement. Arkanel, knew of it, but called me a fool, and eventually cast me out, which is when I took up residence here." He smiled as he gestured to the hall. "Camelot, and the secrets it protects. I'm ready to start, and I think you're here because Arkanel knows this."
"Camelot, and its secrets," Miaka repeated quietly. "Like the pillar of fire beneath the main keep?"
"Pillar of Fire?" Zaphiel asked.
"Arkanel mentioned it," Miaka offered in way of an explanation. "If you don't understand what I'm talking about, it might be a good idea to check the lower levels for it, wouldn't it?"
Zaphiel nodded, "I'll have to do that."
"You haven't mentioned the exact way you've managed to break the compulsion put on you," Miaka reminded him. "After all, wouldn't we be able to release more Chosen from the prisons of their minds that way?"
"A spell. One I had researched and practiced upon a friend of mine in my youth. It clears the mind of compulsions and other altering effects. I don't believe in doing so without the person's leave. Some of those here, I could persuade, but most here were brought before their time," Zaphiel responded.
There are more Chosen here? Miaka thought in surprise. "How many people do you have with you Zaphiel?"
Zaphiel thought for a moment before responding, "We make up a mere two hundred strong. Twenty five are chosen, while the others were persuaded to believe in our cause."
"I see." Miaka cocked her head, asking, "What about the secrets you've managed to unlock? Were you talking about new magical spells, some items from ancient times or historical texts with information?"
Zaphiel looked at the young girl. "Secrets are secrets, my fair lady. You tell them to those you trust. I have determined that there are one or two devices that are run somehow by the souls of those taken. One, oppresses the killer instincts of the populace, the other, renders those to believe magic causes illness. I also know that Camelot is shielded from both these devices by its builders. It was built in a time of magic, to defend against magic."
"A girl's got to try and ask, anyway," Miaka said with a smile. It soon faded, replaced by a frown. "Why haven't you tried to destroy those devices here?"
Zaphiel frowned. "They aren't here, specifically. I believe I know where they are, or at least a way to find them. The war starts soon, are you willing to lend me your aid?" He looked at her critically, eyes peering intently at her.
"I believe what you've said," Miaka replied immediately. Her frown deepened, as she added, "Unfortunately, I also believe that you will fail, as you are now." She sighed. "It's a shame, really. I might as well try to help... but how much are you willing to trust me? How much control and freedom will you give me?"
They were interrupted by return of the soldier, bearing a basket and bag. Miaka instantly recognized them as hers. Zaphiel nodded, and the soldier placed them upon the table, in front of her. "Your things are restored to you. Your freedom depends on what you intend to do with it."
Miaka took the basket, idly grabbing a banana from it and eating it. "I forgot to ask you earlier. Why haven't you done what Arkanel had, and asked for help from people on other worlds?"
Zaphiel chuckled, and responded wryly, "It never occurred to me to burden others of the problems of my lands."
"Well, it's been done now. Why not ask some of those who Arkanel called for to help save this land?" Miaka asked.
Zaphiel smiled. "Am I not starting with you? Do you know where the others are? Would you be my representative to them?"
"Yes, no and yes." The red-head gulped down her last banana. "If you have a way of allowing those not Chosen to use their magic, even if in a limited way, that might go a great deal to show good faith to some of them."
Zaphiel nodded to one of the soldiers. The sandy blond haired young man nodded in return, before raising his hand. The table shook then lurched slightly as it rose slowly off the ground. A few moments later, it settled back in place. Zaphiel spoke then. "As you can see, the castle's enchantment protects those of us here from its effects. I have come up with a way to duplicate the effects, outside of Camelot. I would be willing to share these with you and your comrades."
"Cool!" Miaka exclaimed. Might as well give this a second try, she thought, trying to sense magic again, this time in Zaphiel.
Miaka detected magic within Zaphiel, though it was classified as neither good nor evil.
Emboldened by feeling no cramps, Miaka repeated the process for Lafiel, then the soldier who had used the neat levitation trick.
While Miaka detected neutral magic within Lafiel, she detected none in the soldier.
Miaka tried to shift her focus on Camelot itself. She especially tried to sense for the feel of the place, and where the strongest concentrations of magic lay.
Miaka detected magic all around her, but distant, the strongest concentration coming from the norhtwest.
Gotta check that out later, Miaka decided. She reached into her backpack, and searched it for the two bracers and wards she had on her person before, putting them to their rightful place. "Do you have a spell that would inhance someone's image to make them appear really big and imposing?" she asked Zaphiel after her preparations.
Zaphiel responded, "There are spells that will create illusions, though the caster must craft what the desired effect is."
"Then here's the effect," Miaka continued. "Create a large, fifty meters tall Marshmallow Man!" She gestured with her hands, her eyes glittering. "Ask Mr. Marshmallow to defend Camelot, and he will smite anyone trying to get inside!"
"Marshmallow?" he whispered incredulously.
"Besides the fact that I don't think the plan will work as is -- submitting people is never a good way to gain allies, especially in the short term -- what you ask isn't an illusion, it's actually creating something. Something very large, and sufficiently stable to win a fight if it comes to that."
"But--" Miaka's lower lip trembled. "It's Mr. Marshmallow! He's strong!" She shrugged. "And he doesn't need to win anything, just be there as a show of power and post-negotiations snack. Something to distract everyone long enough for you to offer them to join you."
Zaphiel sighed, "Strong? Marshmallow? I find it hard to believe that your comrades would capitulate in that scenario. No... We shall see how they do in coming here. If they are two weak to make it to me, they are of no help. And if they would submit so easily to a marshmallow, how easily will they submit to my enemies."
As Zaphiel finished speaking, a page came into the room. He stopped behind Lafiel, and whispered something into her ear.
Nodding slighlty, she stood. "Our guest is awake. I'm going to speak with her."
Zaphiel spoke as she turned to leave. "Remember, she only did what she thought was right. No harm came to Hitomi, and from your story, none was promised."
Lafiel left without a word.
Miaka became downcast at Zaphiel's words. He underestimates the power of marshmallow, she thought sadly, shaking her head.
"Mr. Marshmallow doesn't have to be made from actual marshmallow," Miaka lectured. "It's enough that he looks real. And it can even be a scary-looking picture of a wizard instead, if you have a weird allergy to gelatin and suger. That way," she continued eagerly, "you can both demonstrate how strong you are and start negotiations without actually harming anyone. Haven't you seen The Wizard of Oz? That trick always works!"
"The Wizard of Oz?? I've never heard of such a production." He sat back and considered for a moment.
"Even if the plan had magic, we would need to find them. I'm sure they've left Arkanel's now, I can't imagine he'd want to entertain them that long. If we did find them, getting them to listen is the key. Which means either a parley flag they would honor, or trap them into listening. Their's also the problem of what would entice them. How well do you know them?"
"Enough from their reactions to believe that should this illusion offer them power and money, few wouldn't at least listen." Miaka shrugged. "Some of them rely on magic. Why would they risk their lives by fighting on the wrong side, when they could just join you and be able to use their abilities to their utmost, again?"
Miaka shook her head. "I believe that all you need is to get them to stop and listen. And while we don't know where they are now, we know where they are going. I could also try to find them, but I'd need Arkanel's teleporter rod and some means of communicating with you over distances for that."
Zaphiel considered for a moment.
"I don't have any means of communicating over large distances. And the rod is only good if you have a reason to go to the base. If they left Arkanel's, are you intending to follow them here? Wouldn't it be easier to simply walk out the fron and head to town to try and meet them?"
"Those, what are those?" Zaphiel asked.
"Just payment," Miaka replied with a shrug. "I can't really accept it now, since I would no longer work for him."
"bwahahah..." Zaphiel laughed out loud. "That's a wonderful sentiment, my dear. I'm sure I can arrange for it to be sent back to him, or you can do it at your leisure."
"Okay, then I'll take care of that later, I guess." Miaka shrugged, and put the pouch back into the backpack, before lifting if over her right shoulder. "Mind if I go and explore the castle for a bit?"
"I'll have Martin show you around," Zaphiel answered, indicating the soldier who had reteived her belongings.
Miaka nodded, and walked over to the soldier. "Let's go, Martin!" she exclaimed, grabbing his arm. "Why don't we start with a tour of the kitchen?"
The guard nodded, and led Miaka to through the door one of the serving boys had seen before. She saw a large kitchen with tables, ovens, sinks, utensils held overhead, and quite a few people who looked to be in the process of doing kitchen type things.
Miaka let her nose guide her towards the sweets.
Miaka glided through the room, unerringly towards the confection table. The table had a few crumb cakes and a coffee cake upon it,being attended by a plump lady with rosy cheeks.
"Hi," she said when Miaka presented herself. Martin had dutifly followed her.
"These cakes smell really good," Miaka said with a smile. "I bet they are delicious. Can I have some?"
The woman chuckled, "Most people eat elsewhere, but sure." She turned around and removed a plate and some silverware from a cupboard behind her, placing them down in front of Miaka.
"Enjoy," she said rosily.
Miaka did. She wasn't disappointed, nor did she expect to be, with a nose like hers. After a light snack, she turned to the nice lady and asked, "Can I take a piece with me for the road?"
'If you enjoy it that much, SURE!" The lady responded happily.
Miaka happily wrapped up two slices of the cake in wrapping paper she saw in the kitchen, and put them in her basket o' snacks.
Her hunger sated for the moment, Miaka proceeded to drag Martin towards the strong concentration of magic she had felt earlier, trying to sense for it every once in a while to make sure she was on the right track.
Miaka turned from the sweet table and headed back through the kitchen, and then through the dining hall. Stopping in the main hall, she reoriented herself and felt again for magic. The feeling was still all around her, but their was a single spot where it seemed more condensed.
Turning to her right, she went under the stairs towards the large double doors that were guarded. The guards looked at her, and then at Martin, who was still following her.
"It's okay. Zaphiel said she could look around," Martin said.
The guards nodded, curtly, and then opened the twin doors. Looking in Miaka could see a large throne room. A red velvet carpet led from the doorsteps to the actual throne, which was built of solid gold, with red trimmings and padding, and jewel encrusted legs and sides. The back was high and arched at the top, a single crystal spire rose from it, and a large diamond topped it. Miaka could tell that concentration of magic was emanating from there.
Miaka whistled, admiring the opulence. "What's the deal with that diamond, Martin?" she asked the soldier accompanying her.
"I'm not completely sure. You should ask Zaphiel," he replied.
Miaka nodded. "Okay, I'll do that." Glancing back at Martin, she asked, "Feel like giving me a tour of the grounds?"
OOC:
Miaka will check for magic upon entering every room/corridor during the tour, assuming she's given one, k?
"It would be my pleasure," Martin beamed. "This way."
He turned around and led Miaka out of the throne room, down the grand hall they had entered. Stepping through a doorway, they were outside.
The sun shone down on Miaka as they entered a small enclosed area, another gate in front them, and looking up, the ten foot walls on either side.
Continuing through the gate, Miaka found herself in a lush, but not manicured front lawn. A road led from the two steps she was descending forward till they went through a gate in a wall a little ways ahead.
"This is the inner grounds," Martin said.
As Miaka walked, she scanned throughout the way, and determined that the walls were all faintly magical. The outerwalls that surrounded her had a stronger sense of magic.
Martin nodded, and said, "Let's continue."
Miaka nodded and followed him to the right, through a small path as they headed towards the towering Mountain wall which was extremely close to the young girl.
As the castle slipped away to their right, Miaka noted that the land was broken up into segments, probably for gardens that had overgrown each other. Finally they turned around the side of the castle, 100 yards seperated the castle walls from the mountains at this point.
They continued on towards the back, the sound of falling water coming to her ears as they finally reached the rear.
Her sight was taken by the spectactular waterfall that came down in back of the castle. Martin continued to lead her around the castle. Their were about ten soldiers mulling around in back, near a small gate into the castle. As Miaka approached she noted some of them had magical properties. She also noted a set of stairs that went down into an underground tunnel.
Walking past the soldiers, they walked on a small stone road, that was built inbetween the castle and the collecting pool. Miaka could feel the fine mist from the falls lightly coating her face as they walked.
The other side of the castle was almost identical to it's twin and they returned to where they had started.
Continuing on, Martin led her through the gates in the wall and into a huge yard. Miaka could see another massive wall in the distance, as the mountians widened from each other at a percipitous rate.
The road continued forwards toward the other wall, and ended in a small pool of water before the gates.
Two large buildings were erected in this area, both two stories high and built of stone.
In front of both buildings there were two large dirt areas, both featured about thirty people. The set to the left were going through training manuvers. The set to the right were looking at each other, before Miaka could see a falsh of light as an object in the middle of them was destroyed.
Miaka detected a myriad of magics, good, bad, neutral, all over the groups.
Miaka stopped, and glanced at the soldier accompanying her quizzically. "Martin, why am I sensing evil magic around us? After all, didn't Zaphiel say that he was the one saving the world from Arkanel and others like him?" She frowned. "How can evil magic be used by the forces of good?"
As she spoke, Miaka attempted to isolate the sources of evil magic around her, to use as examples in case Martin tried to claim ignorance.
"Magic is magic, or so I'm told. I didn't know it had evil or good associations with it," he replied, sounding completely confused.
Miaka noted that most of the evil magics she felt came from the training set on the right.
"Well, it does. Evil magic feels icky." Miaka shivered. She then tried to come closer to the two large dirt areas where people were practicing. Pointing at them, she asked Martin, "Can you tell me more about what those people are doing over there?"
OOC:
It'd be nice if Miaka got a bit more of a description of the magic that's being performed on the two sets, from her own observations and from Martin.
"Those people are practicing," Martin replied. He shrugged and walked with Miaka. As she saw the people on the right conferring with each other and the people on the left going through what appeared to be sword forms.
OOC: the more specific the action or question the more specific the answer. All she saw was what I said, an object being destroyed.
Pointing at the set to the right, she asked, "I think I saw something being destroyed over there with magic. Do you know how it was done, Martin?"
"An explosion spell, it looked liked. I nonly did the basic training in magic, it's not something I particularly enjoyed," the soldier responded.
Miaka nodded. "Okay, I guess it can't be helped, then." Looking at the people training at the two sets, she asked, "How strong of an opposition do you expect when we make a move against the Ancients? How many wizards, how many brainwashed soldiers?" Shrugging apologetically, she added, "I wanted to ask Zaphiel that, but then he made me the offer, and, well... it was more important than asking for these details."
Martin looked into the sky. "More than we have, a lot more... Zaphiel is hoping to destroy their means of control, rather than risk an all out fight. I don't think there will be any mind controlled soldiers. It's very difficult and risky to relly on that type of magic for exented periods of time for that many."
"Ah." Miaka nodded to herself. "It sounds true enough. After all, the Ancients wouldn't risk letting too many of this world's normal citizens near their fancy toys, especially with the possible complications of mind control on that level."
"If we have about two hundred," she asked after a short pause, which Miaka used to recall Zaphiel's figures, "then how many are there on the other side to be 'a lot more'? Do you have any estimates of the ratio between us and the bad guys?"
"I know Zaphiel has been trying to determine that. But he has no hard numbers. We're not sure how many there are in total, and more importantly, we have no idea what the capabilities of omst of them are. How many are soldiers? How many who aren't soldiers know enough magic to be dangerous. What kind of devices, or traps are set around their untis..." He grimaced as he looked into the girl's eyes.
"Are all those estimates for the Ancients on this continent, or only for those at our target, the magical compulsion device? And speaking of that device, what does it look like? Where is it?" Blushing slightly, Miaka added, "Sorry. I just got so excited...." She spread her arms wide helplessly.
"That's okay." Martin smiled gently. "Zaphiel's one hope, is that the majority of the ancients aren't on this continent. Where they are? I don't know. Where are the devices? Underground, or the rather the roots of them are. The transmitters are above ground for the most part."
"In that case, Zaphiel must be planning to attack very soon," Miaka said with a frown. "Arkanel had sent word to his superiors about this uprising, and they would send reinforcements to crush the rebellion and take Camelot. You would probably know about this from the little side-stabbing bitch, Lafiel," Miaka scowled at the name, "so Zaphiel would know that he can't afford to wait."
Stretching out with her arms behind her back, Miaka muttered, "Too bad I didn't ask more specific questions about Zaphiel's plan. Do you know the details, Martin, or should I ask Zaphiel himself about them?"
"It would be best if you ask Zaphiel if you had any specific inquiries," Martin responded, a scowl on his face.
"Can we go and see him, then?" Miaka asked, oblivious to Martin's scowl.
Martin nodded, and turned towards the keep. He then proceeded to lead Miaka back into the castle. He walked into the center of the main hall and then paused for a second. A serving girl was passing in front of them and he called to her. "Leslie!"
The girl stopped and walked up to him.
"Will you tell Master Zaphiel that his guest," he indicated Miaka with a wave of his hand," wishes to speak to him."
The young woman nodded and left, walking to a door on the left.
After the woman left, Miaka stood doing nothing. Deciding to try and do another magic search, she extended her sense and felt the copious amounts of magic in the area. She noted one difference from eariler. There seemed to be a pin prick of magic from a couple feet behind her. Like almost all the other magic, it seemed to be neutral in character.
As she considered this for a moment, a soldier entered from the door on the left. He walked up to the two and spoke. "Zaphiel will meet you both in the conference room."
Martin nodded and turned towards Miaka. "Shall we?" he asked. He turned and walked forward.
"Sure," Miaka agreed. As she followed Martin, she continued to monitor that unexplained pinprick anomality she sensed.
Martin led Miaka down the main hall until they came close to the two soldiers guarding the throne room. Turning right he walked up to a small door opening it. He held it open for a moment as Miaka started to walk through it.
Miaka, had been more focused on the presence of magic that seemed to follow her, it seemed to move closer as she approached the door and then rapidly moved into the hallway behind her as she stepped through.
Martin closed the door behind him and moved to the first door on the left. Opening it, he made way for Miaka to follow him.
She entered a large room with a large table in the middle of it. Martin indicated for her take a seat at the table while Miaka felt the magic continue to follow her, although she had trouble distinguishing it when it moved close to the walls.
Miaka took the proffered seat, awaiting Zaphiel's arrival. She marked the spot of the magic she had been following, and decided to stop monitoring it for the time being.
The door Miaka had entered through opened, and she turned as Zaphiel walked through. He was trailed by Areal and two guards.
Areal had beed brought to talk with Miaka and Zaphiel. The leader of the castle told both woman, and the eavesdropping Devon, that the people of the valley, and supposedlyt hose in the plains, were all cattle. No one lived over the age of 40, and they were all taken away to be used as experiments and such.
Lafiel was leading a small group into enemy territory in the morning, and both woman had agreed to help. Miaka's returned to her room, thinking of the weird goings on. Areal, a bit less sure of things followed to her own room to digest the information as well.
Devon followed the Miaka, entering her room and revealing himself. Areal came to speak as well and the three decided to give their support to the castle Camelot.
Zaphiel was summoned and another conversation took place.
Devonh had listened to Zaphiel and told him he would help, and try to convince the other party memebers to help. But he needed incentive to help the others switch.
Zaphiel said, "I do have some small wealth stored. Are you in a position to talk for your comrades?"
"I wouldn't presume to negotiate for them," Devon said with a grin. "But the possibility of payment along with a promise of more than just minor logistical support may be enough to sway them to your side."
Miaka coughs
Zaphiel looks at Miaka
Miaka waved her hand. "Sorry," she apologized. "Must be dust."
Zaphiel smiles tolerantly and returns his attention to Devon. "Since you can only speak for yourself? What would be your price?"
"I'm not too sure what you can offer, so I'll have to think about it for a bit," Devon shrugged. "Whatever it is, I can promise it will be reasonable."
"What type of skills do you possess? I'm already impressed with your ability to enter the castle," Zaphiel said.
"Well, I'm something of a woodsman, and I also posses some skill with a blade," Devon smirked. "The woods where I come from can be rather dangerous."
"A blade will be most usefull. How is your proficiency with magic. Also, your ability to resist magic. The foe is very clever and verse in its use of the magic arts."
"I've not much skill the magic but I'm rather adept at avoiding it when need be," Devon shrugged. "I've also some small skill piercing illusions and invisibility."
"Hmm... I should be able to provide you with some items to augment your abilities. I think it will help augment the cost of your services? A ring to help augment your evasiveness, and resistences. If you had an area or two you most needed help with, they would be?"
"Hmm, I've found that spells that prey upon the mind and will can be a bit tricky to deal with. It's simple enough to avoid something like a fireball, but more insidious spells are a bit harder to avoid."
"Those are the hardest. I have an amulet, which will increase greatly your resistence to mind altering spells. They were the most important piece of wizardry created when my ancestors conquered this continent. Your choice is wise, and I'll have one brought to later."
"Very well."
"Do you have more of them?" Miaka asked suddenly, interrupting the two. "I bet all of us could benefit from this."
"I have but a few. Enough that I can part with one for each of you three. Although, they aren't identical, they serve the same overall purpose."
"Great!" Miaka chirped
"In what other way may I be of assistence to you three?" Zaphiel asked.
"I think that's about it for the moment," Devon said.
"Well, you could always tell us about the other rings and amulets you have," Miaka said thoughtfully. "You can never be too prepared!" she lectured, waving her finger in front of her face.
Devon gives Miaka a speculative look, "Good idea."
"Isn't it?" she agreed, smiling
Zaphile looked away. "Hmm... A complete inventory would be difficult. Items depend on the proficiency and ability of the user. Simple protection rings work with all. Some of the items that we have catalouged would take much training in their safe use. Swords and polearms are also generic, being lighter and improving the aim of the user. But they are the only ones I'd allow you have without first testing. If you wish to test, the simpler items, fireballs and illusions are practiced in the yard."
"Well, for starters, is there a limit to the number of rings a person can use?" Miaka asked. "And are there any rings that conflict with each other, like protection from fire and ice?"
"My understanding is that those two specific protections won't conflict with each other if they're passive spells -- reacting only when the wearer initiallizes them. but active spells could be troublesome. I haven't gotten that far in my studies, but I'd be wary of them."
Miaka nodded thoughtfully. "You mentioned fire and illusion. Which other types of magic do you have equipment for?"
Zaphiel smirked, "there are as many as you can imagine. The study of my ancestors was quite extensive, and this was their citadel." His face turned somber. "I can only imagine what was left here was too simple or weak for them to bother moving."
"Anything that augments holy magic, then?" she asked, looking hopeful
Zaphiel forwned. "Holy magic, as I understand it comes from the beings that you worship. I wouldn't trust anything to help in terms of that. Although, your diety might be able to help you use certain items. Or other items could be used to fortify yourself, even your magic spirit which could increase your ability to use some of your spells. It would be something to study had we more time."
Miaka looked downcast for a moment. "Then could you tell me about any items used for protection or healing, Zaphiel? And more information on illusions would be nice, too."
"Illusions are magics created directly in the mind of the target. A powerful illusionist can make the person think they are burning to death, with such realism the person's heart eventually stops. They could also create something as mundane as a solid floor when in reality one is about to step into a pit of cobras."
"Do you think I could be able to do this?" Miaka asked with interest
"Have you been trained in the arts of an illusionist? If not, I couldn't say unless you were subjected to the basic training, and then your aptitude and ability may prevent you from using all but the simplest illusions."
"I see," Miaka drawled out. "I guess there aren't any free lunches." Pouting at the uncomfortable thought, she wondered out loud, "What about items amplifying other magical items? Like the ones I have?"
"What items do you have? I don't have many, if any that amplify. Although, I might have an item that will will compliment something, or recharge."
"Well, for example, my armbands--" she showed them to everyone present "--can protect me from any weapon, both normal or magical, including ranged attacks. They can also boost my strength." Frowning, Miaka added, "Of course, there's a time limit to their use. It would be nice if you had anything to compliment them, of course."
"The few items I have that have similar uses aren't as complete in their protection as what you said. Altough, I could offer them anyway."
"Neat!"
Zaphiel smiled benevelantly.
Gathering her thoughts, Miaka said, "I suppose the best I can do for now is load up on whatever protective amulets you have and believe in Suzaku!" Turning towards Devon, the red-head asked, "Do you want me to come with you to convince everyone to join our righteous quest?"
Devon nodded. "It might help."
Miaka grinned. "It's settled, then! Let's bring them cookies as a treat!"
Devon nodded.
Zaphiel turns to one of the soldiers. "Pack a sack of 'cookies.'" He then turns to Lafiel "Bring them the three amulets, so they can use them when they leave here. They should prove enlightening to the young ladies."
Lafiel, looking bored, nodded and padded out of the room.
"Ah, yes," Miaka spoke suddenly. "Arael mentioned getting a ring from you that allows her to do magic everywhere. It was kinda cute. Could I get one, too? And anything against psionics and the elements, if you have them?"
"The Amulet I spoke of will do that as well, it protects from more than that single spell though. Which is why I offered it instead."
Zaphiel blinked. "Ah. I think I miunderstood. The amulet will protect you against the spell which inhibits your use of magic outside this castle. The other items I can auire for you."
Miaka smiles. "Thanks!"
"Could I get a few items to take back to the others, as a guesture of good will?" Devon asked.
"That would depend on the items. I had promised the three amulets, and those are given. I wasn't planning on giving you the others, util the morning. I could give one or two more items as a token of goodwill, but that would be it."
Devon nods, "Perhaps an item to allow one to see in the dark. A simple magical item would probably be thequickest way to establish your sincerity to the others."
"I could easily part with one of those. I'll send Lafiel to fetch it when she returns," he said quietly.
"Umm." Miaka shuffled her feet. "Could I talk to Lafiel once she gets back? Alone?"
"If she allows it. I can send another for the item, then."
Miaka nodded, blushing
They stood quietly, Areal adding nothing as for now the simple amulet was enough. Lafiel returned, and handed out the three amulets. Zaphile left, after sending another soldier to fetch something. Areal and Devon were led to Areal's room while Miaka and Lafiel were left in the room alone.
Miaka shuffles her feet, sending nervous glances at Lafiel.
Lafiel looks at the other girl critically. "You're upset with me."
"Well, kinda. I mean, I was," Miaka blurts out. "But it's wrong to be angry with people for long, right?"
Lafiel starts to speaks but stops. She purses her lips and sighs. "Anger is a fine emotion. There's nothing wrong with being angry. But their must be a constant reason for such anger. Staying angry when the catalyst for such anger is gone is useless. Unless you mean to take revenge, or be mean for something that was done in the past."
Miaka nods eagerly. "I think so too! I wish Yui-chan understood this...."
"Yui-chan? Does he stay angry often?" Lafiel asked.
"It's a she," Miaka corrects her. "And, well... something bad happened to her, which was kinda my fault, and now she won't listen to me."
Miaka pulls out a picture of the two of them, and shows it to Lafiel. "We were so happy back then...."
Lafiel looks at the picture. "You two look happy together. It's a shame a rift has grown."
Miaka nods sadly. "But, you know, I bet I can change her mind! She'll come around, if only she gives me a chance!"
Lafiel smiles at the infectious cheer of the priestess. "If anyone can, I'm sure you can."
"Thanks! And that's why I think we should be friends again!" She shrugs, and smiles back at Lafiel. "If I can't forgive a friend for doing something to me, how can I ask for forgiveness from another friend?"
Remorse flashes across the young girl's face. An emotion that is quickly replaced by defiance as she looks solemnly at the other woman. Finally a grin spreads on her face. "Friends sounds nice." Lafiel extends her hand to the other girl.
Miaka grabs the hand and shakes it enthusiastically.
"Oh. Were you going to meet the others with your two friends?" Lafiel asked.
"Friends?" Miaka thinks for a moment. "Oh, them. Yeah, I'm going to meet the others and ask them to help!"
"Maybe I should take you to them. It's not that dangerous at night, but you should be indoors before nightfall."
"Okay," Miaka readily agrees. "Lead the way, then, Lafiel-chan!"
Lafiel giggles and leads Miaka out into the hallway and down to Areal's room. Where she opens the door and says, "My father asked me to pick up a few items for you. If you ask the guard, he'll lead you to the courtyard where I'll meet you."
"Okay, I'll do that," Miaka assures her.
Lafiel nods and walks off.
One of the guards comes up to the group and escorts them through the castle towards the entrance just outside.
They wait for a few moments before Lafiel appears. She greets the three and holds out her hand. Three rings are present there.
Indicating each ring as she speaks, she says, "The Azure one here circumvents the power of gravity. The wearer will float off the ground when walking, allowing for large descents to be made without injury. This golden one will increase the amount of light you eyes process. I must caution you, it's indiscriminate in its application. Put it on and look upon the sun is a sure way to cause blindness. This green one is a true treasure. I will speed the bodies regeneration process. It won't cure injuries instantaniously, and it won't cure anything the body couldn't fix with time, but it can and has sped the recovery of soldiers during war."
"Decide which each of you would like." She waits patiently for the party to react.
"Floating will be fun!" Miaka chirps. "Can I have that one?"
Lafiel hands the enthuisastic young woman the ring. "Have fun."
Miaka accepts it happily, and puts it on.
Miaka suddenly feels light on her feet, as if she were weightless.
“I’ll take the golden one,” Areal said, pointing at the light amplifying ring.
Lafiel quickly hands the ring to Areal. Looking at the only male in the group, she hands him the remaining ring. "Use them well."
Miaka takes a few steps, trying to get used to the feeling of weightlessness. Then, she smiles, and she runs back towards the group and Lafiel, her arms spread to the sides as she imitates a small but energetic airplane.
Lafiel's eyes widen as she steps out of the way. The energetic girl finds her momentum has taken control as she fly's past the girl only to be stopped dead in her tracks. Turning and lokking, she finds that Lafiel has grabbed ahold of her dress. "You should be careful with that." She smiles as she releases the other woman.
"I was right!" Miaka exclaims. "It is fun!" Giving Lafiel a quick hug, she says, "Thanks for helping me!"
Lafiel smiles as she disentangles herself. "You should be off now." She hands Miaka a red flag with a silver chalice emplem in the center of it. "If you return late, wave this so we'll know it's you. Good luck with the others."
She turns to return to the castle.
A guard walks up to them and escorts the trio past the two walls into the valley before retreating into to the citadel.
“Well, let’s get going,” Areal says cheerfully, levitating, thanking the goddess for the use of her powers once more.
“Anyone remember how to get back?”
"It shouldn't be too hard to go back the same way we leave," Miaka replies. "But where are we going?" She turns to look at Devon expectantly.
Areal gets a foot off the ground then collapses in a heap rethcing violently.
Slipping the ring he'd been fiddling with into his pocket, Devon glanced at Miaka.
"That way," he indicated the northern cliffs with a nod of his head.
Seeing Areal collapse, he looked at her, "Are you ok?" he asked concernedly.
Areal struggles to her feet.
“Right, amulet. Forgot,” she grouses, putting the magical artifact on.
“Nothing hurt but my pride. Let’s go already.” Having missed the hand signaling the direction she waits expectantly for one of the others to lead the way..
Miaka glances worriedly at Arael, but seeing that she is okay, follows Devon's directions, setting off for the northern cliffs.
After a short uneventful track, the three companions reach the base of the cliff.
Devon examined the cliff-face, looking to see how difficult it would be for him to climb, and how tall the cliff was.
The cliff went up for quite a while, at least a half-mile. In Devon's estimation, he could ascend it in time.
Turning to Areal, Devon gave her a thoughtful look.
"You can levitate yourself. Do you think you can make it to the top of the cliff?"
“Only one way to find out.” Areal attempts to levitate.
Areal lifts lightly off the ground.
“Guess that answers that question.” Arael floats around Devon a bit. “Need a lift?”
"Well, I was thinking that you could give Miaka a lift," Devon shrugged then turned to Miaka. "Unless you want to try out that ring."
Miaka slips on the ring, lifting a bit off the ground. "I'd still appreciate some help, just in case," she tells Arael.
Arael grabs Miaka’s hand.
“Don’t worry, you get used to it pretty quickly.” Turning back to Devon she asks once more, “You sure you don’t want a lift?”
"If you think you can carry me while helping Miaka, then I'll take a lift," Devon replied.
Arael concentrates, attempting to lift Devon.
“Shouldn’t be too hard. I’m not lifting her myself, just guiding her.”
Areal lifts Devon and then herself, slowly off the ground slowly. Looking up the side of the mountain, she realized it will take some time to make it to the top.
Miaka takes a hold of the levitating trio and scrambles up besides them. The process proves lengthy, and extremely tiresome to Areal who is exhausted when they reach the plateau.
Arael alights softly on the ground before dropping to her knees. Her breathing is a bit ragged, and she takes the time to get her wind back.
“See, n-nothing to it. Now which way are the others?”
OOC: Sorry KP. The thread didn’t flag for some reason.
Miaka makes sure she's safely away from the cliff, before taking off the ring she used to float and storing it in a shirt pocket.
The group sees some sparse trees and small hills away from the cliff. There is also the remains of what appears to be a camp site nearbye.
Arael pokes around a bit, looking for signs that this sight was made by the other off worlders.
“Was this where you were suppose to meet, Devon?”
Devon nods imperceptibly while he appears to be in some sort of trance.
Miaka makes her way towards the other group, smiling happily.
Miaka walks unheaded for a few feet before she notices the others notice her.
OOC:: This thread is closed for the time being. Use the main one to respond in from now on.