Lunar: A Story Forgotten Session 8 Log Session Start: Sun Mar 16 20:03:12 1997 =============================================================================== Cast of Characters: Dragonmaster Lou as "Gamemaster, Teal, Tourist, Ruby, Ramus, Hiro, Armor Clerk, Weapons Clerk, Magic Clerk, Marie, Vane Citizen, Marina Ausa" Mia Ausa as "Callie" Ghaleon Dragonstar as "Zigfried" Ryouga Hibiki as "Kyoko" Scott Kroush as "Scott" Captain Blake as "Ebony, Nina" Danny Capote as "Danny" =============================================================================== * Zigfried looks grimly at the Water Dragon. "It just has to be something like this, didn't it?" Ebony: "Like I said before... IT'S THE WATER DRAGON!" --The group confronts another Water Dragon in the bowels of the Meribian Sewer. The dragon stands between them and the hapless tourists Ramus sent them to save!-- Nina: "I heard you last time, Cutie." ===COMBAT=== Kyoko: "Lovely..." * Kyoko pulls out her staff. Scott: "This oughta be fun. It's TTKB!" Nina: "You all talk too much during battle, you know that?" * Callie looks at Nina. Ebony: "Hey... I haven't talked this much in thousands of years!" * Ebony shuts up, just to spite Nina Scott: "Nina, ain't you ever heard of talking trash to your opponent? It's a very old practice." Nina: "I prefer to concentrate on my fighting." * Nina extends her wings Callie: "Well... You certainly are not at the moment..." * Zigfried remains silent, staying out of this argument. Teal attacks! Water Dragon is hit with a spark of lightning for 3 damage! Ebony attacks! Water Dragon is hit with a stream of acid for 3 damage! Scott: "You never thought of the psychological aspect of fighting then. Extremes of emotion causes mistakes, and makes victory all that much easier." Zigfried casts Owl's Strength! Zigfried: "Great predator of the night, grant me your strength so that I may strike my prey as swiftly as thee." Nina: "And being distracted by talking causes you to make mistakes." Zigfried feels himself acquire a new vigor! Zigfried attacks! First attack... Critical hit! 82 damage! Scott: "Go Get em, Zig!" Second attack... 53 damage! Third attack... Critical hit! 95 damage! * Nina readies her new whip... Too bad she has a bad reaction. Fourth attack... 56 damage! Scott: "Totally cool, Zig! This dragon will be no problem with that spell of yours." * Zigfried smirks. "I hope so!" Ebony: "Dragon? Ha... This thing is just a dragon wanna-be." Callie casts Quicker! Ebony: "There are only four REAL Dragons..." Scott: "Then what do you call this thing, Ebony? It looks like a dragon to me." Callie's reaction is up by 8! Ebony: "I told you... It's a dragon wanna-be." Scott casts Fastcut! Scott: "Take this! FASTCUT!" Scott slashes the Water Dragon for 58 damage! Water Dragon casts Blaze Breath! The front row is immersed in flame spewed from its mouth! Scott: "I think I'll go in for a normal attack next round. One shot won't do the job." * Zigfried grimaces. Scott: "Oh, boy." Nina: "Ahh." * Ebony deftly avoids the flame Callie suffers 18 damage. Scott suffers 26. Zigfried suffers 31. Nina suffers 18. Scott: "Damn, that hurt." Kyoko casts Hypersonic! * Kyoko inhales deeply, stares at Water Dragon. Kyoko begins singing, pleasant at first, then turning shrill 'til the song forms waves of sound impacting into Water Dragon! * Scott gets ready to heal. "I guess my healing magic will come into play today" The Water Dragon is hit with waves of sound for 46 damage! * Nina bats her wings out; turns around pissed Nina: "YOU SINGED MY WINGS!" Zigfried: "I don't suppose anyone knows any group healing spells yet..." Nina casts Quicklash! Nina can counterattack! * Scott looks at his hat. "You scorched my hat? Now you die!" ===ROUND 2=== Teal attacks! Water Dragon is hit with a spark of lightning for 3 damage! Ebony attacks! Water Dragon is hit with a stream of acid for 3 damage! Callie attacks! First attack... 34 damage! Second attack... Critical hit! 71 damage! Zigfried casts Owl's Strength! Zigfried: "Great predator of the night, grant me your strength so that I may strike my prey as swiftly as thee." Ebony: "Why do you all have to be so... verbal in your attacks?" First attack... 49 damage! Ebony: "What ever happened to the days where you just do it!" Callie: "So the owl will listen... Or something." Second attack... Critical hit! 87 damage! * Callie fehs. Third attack... Critical hit! 78 damage! Scott: "You got it, Zig. You the man!" * Zigfried smirks. "This is pretty easy." Fourth attack... 51 damage! Scott attacks! Callie: "Dammit! Ditto to Scott!" Kyoko: "This one is tough!" First attack... 65 damage! Scott: "Now it's my turn!" Second attack... 63 damage! Scott: "Not bad if I do say so myself." * Nina holds her whip Ebony: "And of course... You do say so." Water Dragon attacks Nina! Scott: "Shut up, Ebony!" * Nina narrows her eyes The Water Dragon whacks Nina with his long neck for 3 damage. Nina counterattacks! Kyoko: "I really don't like this, guys." Water Dragon suffers 72 damage! Scott: "Really, Ky? I'm loving it." Kyoko casts Recovery Litany on Zigfried! All HP recovered! Zigfried: "As long as I don't pass out I'm doing fine." Zigfried: "Thanks, Kyoko." Nina attacks! First attack... 65 damage! Second attack... 63 damage! * Kyoko starts chanting... "In the name of Althena, calm this soul and heal their wounds..." Zigfried is suddenly engulfed in a blue light and starts healing... ===ROUND 3=== Nina: "For a dragon it doesn't hit very hard." Ebony: "I told you its not a dragon... I'm a dragon." * Nina gives Ebony the "Yeah... Uh huh." look * Callie looks at Ebony. Scott: "Nina, you look like warmed over death. Consider yourself healed." Teal attacks! Water Dragon is hit with a spark of electricity for 3 damage! Callie: "Heh... Actually it's hitting as hard as Ebony." Ebony attacks! Water Dragon is hit with a stream of acid for 3 damage! Callie attacks! Kyoko: "I'll take care of you, Scott." Scott: "Thanks, Ky." Ebony: "...But I had all my power drained!" First attack... 43 damage! Second attack... 34 damage! Zigfried casts Owl's Strength! Scott: "I'll take care of Nina's wounds too." Zigfried: "Great predator of the night, grant me your strength so that I may strike my prey as swiftly as thee." * Scott begins working on his incantation. First attack... 49 damage! Ebony: "Heard it before Zig..." Second attack... 49 damage! * Zigfried glares at Ebony. * Ebony holds up his paws "Hey... Um... Be as repetitive as you want." Third attack... Critical hit! 82 damage! Fourth attack... Critical hit! 81 damage! * Zigfried takes a moment to catch his breath and appreciate his work. Scott casts Recovery Litany on Nina! Scott: "Goddess Althena, hear my call. Heal this should that she may continue in the ways of bravery and honor for your glorious cause!" Nina recovers 23 HP! Water Dragon casts Fire Breath! Zigfried: "Uh oh..." Kyoko is engulfed in a tremendous flame spewed from the beast's mouth! Nina: "Not after my wings were just healed..." Kyoko: "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!" Scott: "KYOKO!" Kyoko suffers 10 damage. * Kyoko tosses off her robes. Kyoko casts Recovery Litany on Scott! All HP recovered! Scott: "Now you die beast! Forget healing anyone else now." Nina attacks... First attack... Nina misses... * Kyoko starts chanting... "In the name of Althena, calm this soul and heal their wounds..." Scott is suddenly engulfed in a blue light and starts healing... Second attack... Critical hit! 114 damage! Great hit, Nina! The Water Dragon falls over limply on its side... VICTORY! * Nina holds her whip and smiles Scott: "YEEEE HAAAAWWWW!" Zigfried: "Good work, Nina." --All gain 130 XP. 70 S and 20 MXP gained.-- Nina: "Thank you... Zig." * Nina hits Ebony for stealing ANOTHER line --The dead body of the Water Dragon makes a perfect bridge to cross to the tour group...-- * Callie looks at the terrified people. Zigfried: "You're welcome." Zigfried: "Now how are we going to get across the water?" Callie: "On our way, then." * Nina hops across the dragon, her feet not touching it Teal: "I think we can safely cross on the back of that dead Water Dragon..." * Scott walks over the body of the Water Dragon and extends his hand to one of the civilians. "We'll help you out, folks." * Callie goes on the carcass. * Zigfried climbs across the dragon's corpse. Tourist: *waking up* "Thank you... That thing captured us and brought us here, probably to eat us!" * Ebony lands on Zig's shoulder. "Not bad work there... I used to fight with claws you know." Zigfried: "How come you don't now?" Scott: "No problem. Now, is there another way outta here?" Ebony: "How about showing your appreciation by showering us with silver?" Scott: "By the way, I gotta talk to Ramus about shutting this little attraction down." Zigfried: "We probably can just go back the way we came from Ramus's shop." Callie: "Right, Scott... We won't always be here." Kyoko: "OK, come with us." Ebony: "Well... It's kinda embarrassing Zig... But my physical strength is gone as well as my magical." Scott: "I guess I'll use my usual powers of persuasion." * Scott looks at his sword. Callie: "Feh!" Zigfried: "I see. Well, we'll get it back sometime." Ebony: "Even though I'm small, I used to be strong." Ebony: "Even in this form." Zigfried: "Well, you're a Dragon. There's no reason you shouldn't be." Ebony: "Yea... But the way these things go, I'll get my power back and won't be able to help you with it." Kyoko: "We'll get you to a statue soon." Zigfried: "Why do you think that?" Scott: "Right, Zig, Ebony. Ky, let's try to heal some of the more seriously wounded here." Kyoko: "OK." * Ebony smiles slightly, looks at Zig. "In all the stories you've heard, has the Dragon ever helped the group?" Nina: "I have no healing abilities" Callie: "In case we get intercepted later..." Kyoko: "OK. Let's heal." * Zigfried smiles. "Well, if not in direct intervention in combat, there have been other more indirect ways." Ebony: "Anyone got a Heal Aura on them?" * Kyoko helps heal the injured. Ebony: "Sure, we never get to have fun... Squishing bad guys and stuff." * Scott looks to the wounded. "Who's more seriously wounded here? We'll get you healed real quick." * Callie sits on the head of the dragon and re-applies her lipstick. ;) * Zigfried pets Ebony to mollify him. Callie: "I'm right as rain as of now." * Scott performs some minor first aid on a few of the injured. "This should help a little." --Callie has reached Level 5! HP up 7, MP up 5, ATK up 4, Def up 3, Wis up 5, MgE up 5, Hit% up 4, Dod% up 3, Rea up 3. Next at 490.-- Nina: "You all are better fighters than I thought." Scott: "You're not so bad yourself, Nina." Kyoko: "Heh, all I'm good for is healing!" Callie: "But good you are at that, Kyoko." Nina: "Kyoko... Your magic is what defeated me." Zigfried: "Healing's important though, Kyoko." Nina: "Or did you forget?" Kyoko: "Yea, Nina, Then I healed you." *smiles* Nina: "Yes... I think it's the first time anyone's done something like that for me." * Scott puts his first aid kit away after healing the last of the wounded. "What do you say we get outta here?" Kyoko: "I knew you weren't really out to kill us." Callie: "Just a bloomin' moment!" Ebony: "Bloomin'?" Callie: "BLOOMIN'!!!" Scott: "Now that's a term that hasn't been used in a while." * Ebony falls over backwards at the three "!" * Ebony rights himself Ebony: "OK... All you... Rescued type people, stand up, let's get moving." --Kyoko has reached Level 5! HP up 5, MP up 8, ATK up 3, Def up 3, Wis up 8, MgE up 8, rest up 3. Next at 470.-- Ebony: "Anyone wanna see my art work!?" Nina: "Artwork?" * Callie has her orange-pinkish lipstick to match her hair applied to perfection! ;) * Zigfried wonders where a little flying cat keeps his artwork. Callie: "What have y done now, Ebony?" * Scott wonders the same thing. --Scott has reached Level 5! HP up 7, rest up 3. Next at 466.-- * Ebony pulls a little statuette out of... nowhere Ebony: "This is Dragonmaster Alex... The first." Nina: "How did you do that?" Ebony: "Oh... Netherspace." Scott: "Don't ask. It's better you don't know." * Callie can't help but snicker at Scott's remark. * Ebony puts it away * Ebony pulls out another, "This is Miko." Scott: "This is the person you made the memorial to?" * Ebony nods --Nina has reached Level 5! HP up 9, MP up 5. ATK, Def, Wis, MgE up 5, rest up 2. Next at 490.-- * Callie fiddles with her earrings. Ebony: "I loved her... Still do I suppose." * Scott looks at the statuette. "Not that bad looking a person. How long ago did you know her?" Kyoko: "Tell us about her." Ebony: "What do you want to know?" --Danny has reached level 5, but as he is not here right now I won't read his stats out. :)-- Scott: "Everything, Eb. Tell us while we walk." Ebony: "I miss her... Our time together was so short..." Ebony: "She, Azura and... Teal are the ones I've loved most in life." * Callie sighs. Scott: "Let's get outta here while the small Dragon talks. Whadda say?" * Nina seems sad at this talk * Zigfried shrugs, forgetting for a moment that Ebony is sitting on his shoulder. * Ebony sinks his claws in Callie: "I... Suppose..." * Zigfried winces. "Physical strength not withstanding, your claws at still sharp, Ebony!" Callie: "I wish I had stories to tell you all... I suppose I have a few... No childhood ones, though." Nina: "My story doesn't have a happy ending." Scott: "Folks, now you know the meaning of stench. A sewer plus a monster with Rigor Mortis setting in. Now that's the true meaning of a foul stench." * Kyoko pets Ebony. Zigfried: "You don't know that, Nina. It's not over yet." Kyoko: "I feel sorry for you, Ebony." --Zigfried has reached Level 5! HP up 5, MP up 3, ATK up 4, Def up 1, Wis up 3, MgE up 3, Hit% up 6, rest up 3. Next at 465-- * Nina looks at Zig, "My life so far hasn't been very good, I suppose now is some of the best times... Sad isn't it?" * Ebony smiles a little at Kyoko, "Outliving everyone you love shouldn't happen." Scott: "Well, I know this. All of our stories have been tragic, but we've come together and formed a great team, and a great friendship. Let's keep it up." Ebony: "At least I still have Teal." * Callie sighs, fehs, then gets up and stands next to Scott. "I guess we should go soon... The smell is getting to me, too. Zigfried: "Perhaps. It's how you look at it. I won't judge my life until it's over though." Kyoko: "I only loved one person in my life... And they don't even know it..." *giggle* Callie: "Heheh... Ditto, Kyoko." Ruby: "Can we just get out of this creepy sewer?" Zigfried: "Agreed." Ebony: "I'm waiting for you all to walk." Teal: "Let's blow this joint then!" * Scott walks toward the exit of the sewer. * Zigfried starts heading out of the sewers. * Callie follows. * Nina follows them quietly. "Zig?" --The group heads back along the path they came, again following the underwater river of waste water towards Ramus's store.-- Zigfried: "Yes?" Nina: "What have I to look forward to?" * Kyoko blushes as they walk back. Ebony: "Life Nina... I mean... You don't HAVE to wander around killing stuff." Callie: "Your face looks flushed, Kyoko... Is there a problem?" * Nina lifts her head to look at Ebony Zigfried: "Whatever you want to, I suppose. I wish I had something wiser to say. But I don't look forward much myself." Nina: "It's all I know... All I ever knew was my life with my mother." * Scott walks on, thinking about what he'll say to Ramus about his little "attraction". Kyoko: "No, it's OK." * Kyoko giggles. Ebony: "Why did you leave your mother?" Nina: "I didn't... The Vile Tribe killed her." Teal: "Why?" Zigfried: "My life in the past has little to do with my present. Perhaps you can make that break as well." Scott: "What do you think, Teal? Should I try to be subtle with Ramus or just get to the point." Nina: "Can I change what I am?" Kyoko: "Be nice to Ramus!" Teal: "Go easy on Ramus. This thing has been going on for thousands of years. Ramus had no idea a new Water Dragon moved in until it was too late..." Zigfried: "I'm not saying that you have to change." Callie: "Hmmm... Don't try to bargain with him." Nina: "It wasn't that hard a monster." Zigfried: "But you sometimes have to learn to let go." * Nina smiles a little. "Having friends is a change for me." Ruby: "I bet it would have been for Ramus, tee hee..." Scott: "I have to get the point across that this thing has to be shut down. You don't know when a stronger monster will shack up in there." Ebony: "Geeze you guys can be depressing." --Suddenly, the water in the underground river begins to bubble...-- * Kyoko looks at Scott. Kyoko: "BE NICE TO RAMUS!" Callie: "Ummm... What's that noise...?" Ebony: "Eh... Monsters." Scott: "I didn't say I was going to kill him. Wait... What's that over there?" Zigfried: "Uh oh..." --Five creatures emerge from the grimy depths... Some crocodilian, some turtle-like...-- Scott: "Dammit! What now!" Kyoko: "Uh... What's that?!." Ebony: "Told ya." Ebony: "Guess you guys wanna know what they are called huh?" ===COMBAT=== Scott: "Ky, folks, it's TTKB!" * Nina leaps forward Ebony: "Well, there's three Sewer Gators in front, two Mutant Turtles in back." * Zigfried takes his battle stance. * Scott assumes his usual fighting stance. --The creatures snap at the group and the tourists they protect...-- Scott: "Kyoko, Nina, Zig, keep the tourists behind you." Zigfried: "Don't worry, we will." * Scott gets ready to Wide Slash the enemy front. Teal attacks! Sewer Gator A is hit with a spark of lightning for 3 damage! Ebony attacks! Sewer Gator A is hit with a stream of acid for 3 damage! Zigfried casts Winged Owl from the back row! Zigfried can attack regardless of row! Zigfried: "Eule, spirit of the owls, I call on your strength to aid me. Lend me your wings and give me flight!" * Ebony flies up above the battle Callie attacks Sewer Gator A! First attack... Critical hit! 73 damage! Second attack... 45 damage! Scott casts Wide Slash! Scott rakes his blade across the front row of Sewer Gators! Scott: "Goddess Althena, bless my blade!" Sewer Gator A suffers 61, B suffers 61, C suffers 61. Sewer Gator A casts Feral Instinct! Sewer Gator A can counterattack! Sewer Gator B casts Feral Instinct! Sewer Gator B can counterattack! Sewer Gator C attacks Nina! Nina suffers 1 damage Scott: "Looks like Althena's with us today, folks." * Ebony doesn't mention Althena's dead * Ebony also doesn't get into his "I knew Althena" story Mutant Turtle A hides in his shell. * Zigfried shrugs. Scott: "Can't stop us now. Get ready to die, monsters." Mutant Turtle B casts Slacken on Callie! Callie resists the effects of the spell... Kyoko casts Hypersonic on Mutant Turtle A! Scott: "Go get 'em, Ky!" * Kyoko inhales deeply, stares at Mutant Turtle A. Kyoko begins singing, pleasant at first, then turning shrill 'til the song forms waves of sound impacting into Mutant Turtle A! Mutant Turtle A is assaulted by sound waves for 56 damage! Scott: "Now that's what I call a set of Pipes. Linda McCartney has nothing on her when it comes to shrill sounds." Nina casts Quicklash! Nina can counterattack! ===ROUND 2=== Teal attacks! Sewer Gator A is hit with a spark of lightning for 3 damage! Ebony attacks! Sewer Gator A is hit with a stream of acid for 3 damage! Zigfried attacks Sewer Gator C! * Zigfried flies over the front row to attack. First attack... 61 damage! Second attack... Critical hit! 81 damage! Third attack... 55 damage! Callie casts Wide Slash! Callie sweeps her blade across the row of Sewer Gators! Sewer Gator A suffers 39. B suffers 39. C suffers 39. Scott: "Nice shot, Callie!" * Callie smirks at Scott then fehs. Scott casts Wide Slash! Scott sweeps his blade across the row of Sewer Gators! Scott: "Goddess Althena bless my blade!" Sewer Gator A suffers 61. B suffers 61. C suffers 61. Sewer Gator C is luggage! Scott: "Anyone need a pair off boots?" Callie: "Boots?" Sewer Gator A attacks Zigfried! Scott: "Or maybe a nice suitcase?" Scott: "I hear Sewer Gator luggage is a hot item this year." Callie: "I'm not that good at tanning hides... Well, to make luggage and such. ;)" Sewer Gator A changes his mind and attacks Callie Scott: "Get ready, Cals." * Callie nods to Scott. Callie suffers 17 damage. * Zigfried hovers in the back row wondering what got into that gator's head. Sewer Gator B attacks Callie! Scott: "Maybe mine and Callie's blades." Callie: "What the bloody---" Callie suffers 13 damage. * Zigfried chuckles. "Perhaps they did." Scott: "Ky, I think Callie can use a heal." Mutant Turtle A defends... Mutant Turtle B defends... Scott: "COWARD!" Kyoko casts Hypersonic on Mutant Turtle B! * Kyoko inhales deeply, stares at Mutant Turtle B. Kyoko begins singing, pleasant at first, then turning shrill 'til the song forms waves of sound impacting into Mutant Turtle B ! * Ebony casts Poe Claw! Mutant Turtle B suffers 56 damage. Nina attacks Sewer Gator A! Kyoko: "Callie, I'll take care of you!" Callie: "Thanks, Kyoko!" Kyoko: "That's the last of it, guys." Sewer Gator A suffers 65 damage and is a pair of boots! Second attack on Sewer Gator B... Kyoko: "After this, I either use my Starlight or it's no more healing." Sewer Gator B suffers 80 damage! Sewer Gator B counterattacks! Scott: "Not a bad shot, Nina. Not bad at all." Nina suffers 1 damage. Nina counterattacks! Kyoko: "Should I cough my Starlight or not?" Sewer Gator B suffers 66 damage Zigfried: "Save it, Kyoko. Those things are expensive and we're almost outside." Sewer Gator B can't counterattack anymore this round against Nina... Scott: "Besides, I have a few herbs." Ruby attacks! Sewer Gator B is hit by a blast of flame for 3 damage! Sewer Gator B is a jacket! ===ROUND 3=== * Nina is slightly depressed she was within 3 HPs of killing that thing Scott: "Zig, you take the luggage. The boots are mine. The others can fight over the jacket." * Callie grabs the jacket. ;) Callie: "Nah, it doesn't go with my shirt." * Scott grabs the boots. "I can wear them to the new Denim and Diamonds in Dragon City when this is over." Teal attacks! Mutant Turtle A is hit with a spark of electricity for 3 damage! Ebony attacks! Mutant Turtle A is hit with a stream of acid for 3 damage! Callie: "I suppose I could save it... But what would I wear with gatorskin?" * Zigfried just flaps his wings in the back row, not really interested in gator skin stuff. Callie: "This is too bloody complicated!!! @#$%*!@#@#$%!#$!@#" Zigfried attacks Mutant Turtle B! First attack... 55 damage! * Zigfried dives at the turtle, raking his claws at it. Scott: "You won't get a gator bag cheaper, Zig." Second attack... 55 damage! Third attack... 49 damage! Zigfried: "That may be true! But money is not a concern of mine in my private life!" Callie casts Wide Slash! Nina: "Singers rarely have to buy weapons and armor." Callie sweeps her blade across the Mutant Turtles! Mutant Turtle A suffers 39. B suffers 39. Scott attacks Mutant Turtle A! First attack... 74 damage! Scott: "Take this, turtle!" Second attack... 68 damage! Mutant Turtle A casts Slacken! Zigfried is hit by the spell and can only attack every other round... * Ebony thinks mid-battle isn't the place for fashion discussions Mutant Turtle B casts Slacken! * Zigfried blinks as he slows down. Zigfried: "Oof..." Callie is hit by the spell but resists its effects... Kyoko casts Recovery Litany on Callie! All HP recovered! Callie: "Ha! Nice try!" * Zigfried discovers it's hard to keep flying while being slowed and temporarily lands in the back row. * Nina can't believe TURTLES have a higher reaction rate than her! Scott: "Not bad, Cals." * Kyoko starts chanting... "In the name of Althena, calm this soul and heal their wounds..." Callie is suddenly engulfed in a blue light and starts healing... * Kyoko looks drained. Nina attacks Mutant Turtle A! * Kyoko pulls out her wand. First attack... 70 damage! Mutant Turtle A is pizza topping! Second attack on Mutant Turtle B... 71 damage! Mutant Turtle B is a shell of his former self... VICTORY! * Zigfried groans, returning to normal speed. * Nina smiles and holds up two fingers "Two for two." Kyoko: "Hhmmm. Tonight we dine on turtle soup!" Callie: "Llllll..." * Nina attaches her whip to her belt * Scott sheaths his sword. --All get 48 XP. 350 S, 83 MXP acquired.-- Scott: "Let's get on outta here, folks." Ebony: "We have a roundtound store owner to see!" * Scott starts to walk out of the sewers. * Zigfried nods and hurries along. * Ebony lands on Kyoko's head * Kyoko pets Ebony. --Finally the group sees light up ahead...-- * Ebony hums to himself * Kyoko offers Ebony a fish. * Ebony grabs the fish. "Hey, thanks!" * Kyoko smiles. "My pleasure." * Ebony snacks on fish --The party and their tourist companions finally emerge in Ramus's store.-- Ramus: "You made it! Thank Goddess you're still alive! What happened down there?" Scott: "Ramus, old buddy. We have to talk." *snickers* Nina: "We came, we saw, we killed." Ramus: "What is it, Scott?" * Callie snickers as she watches Scott. Zigfried: "How true." Scott: "That little attraction of yours? Shut it down." Ebony: "Ffm ufff." * Ebony talks with fish in his mouth Ramus: "Why? It's been in operation for thousands of years! It's the most popular tourist trap in Meribia!" Callie: "Yea... Trap..." Scott: "Well, it's also a major safety hazard." Zigfried: "Just finish your food first, Ebony." Ramus: "How was I supposed those old monsters came back. By the way, what did you guys see down there?" Nina: "A water dragon-wanna-be, turtles, crocodiles..." Zigfried: "Water Dragons, Sewer Gators, Mutant Turtles..." Scott: "These people almost died. Why am I not surprised, knowing the way you set me up five years ago." * Ebony nods at Nina * Kyoko smiles at Ramus and blushes. Ramus: "I swear, it was an accident!" * Ramus notices and blushes himself Nina: "How about paying us? I have my eye on some armor." Scott: "My trust is not easily earned, Ramus. Now, has there been any news from Black Rose Street lately?" Ramus: "Oh yeah, I almost forgot..." * Zigfried looks at Kyoko and back at Ramus and decides to say nothing. Ramus: "Here's the silver!" Kyoko: "Be nice to Ranu-chan!" Ramus: "No news from Black Rose St. Nothing new has come out of Vane since you entered the sewers." Ebony: "Man... Too bad I don't have any black diamonds in netherspace." Kyoko: "Any news from the Shrine?" Ramus: "Well, they are preparing for the annual Goddess Festival there. That's all I've heard. One of the priestesses stopped by here earlier for some supplies." Scott: "Well, it's been fun, Ramus. Guys, let's book." Ramus: "I'm really sorry Scott about what happened before. I promise you I will make it up to you one day!" Ramus: "Feel free to purchase anything you want from my store!" Ebony: "At a discount?" Scott: "We need armor and Callie needs a new sword. Can you set us up?" Ramus: "The shop bunnies will be glad to serve you. No discount, yet... Unless. You there with the shades!" Ramus: "Sorry, my inventory only has items right now. :(" Zigfried: "Um... Yes?" * Zigfried doesn't like the sound of this. Ramus: "I know who you are! I've had my eyes on you since you cut your first album! You're Zigfried Brandl!" Kyoko: "Uh... Ramus..." *gulp* * Ebony whispers to Zig. "He's going to try and use you to promote his business." * Zigfried gets an anime sweat drop. Ramus: "I'll give you guys a discount if Zigfried signs on to my record label..." * Zigfried whispers to Ebony. "No duh!" Ebony: "All the Ramuses... Ramusi? Are like that." Zigfried: "Um..." Scott: "And here I thought you owned just about every record label on the Blue Star and Lunar." Ramus: "Fat Boy Records needs a big star like you to really rake in the silver!" * Zigfried can believe that, but would rather not. He already has a contract. * Kyoko stares at Ramus starry-eyed. * Ramus blushes at Kyoko Zigfried: "Um, no thanks, Ramus." Ramus: "Well, please consider it another time then. The offer still stands! Later!" Zigfried: "Um... Yeah, I'll do that." Hiro: "OK, so what do you humans want to do now?" * Scott gets a big anime sweat drop. Scott: "Armor. We need armor." Callie: "I'm in dire need of a sword." Ruby: "To the armor store then! Da daa da daa da daa! Charge!" * Zigfried gets another sweat drop. Scott: "He really got you good on that one, Zig." Zigfried: "Maybe I should start wearing a hood instead..." Kyoko: "Yea... Armor... Hehee." Teal: "I got one for you!" * Teal pulls a bluish hood from her netherspace. Teal: "Here you go Zig!" * Zigfried would get another sweat drop, but hasn't lost the previous two yet. Zigfried: "Um... Thanks, Teal." --The group exits Ramus's store and soon approach the weapons and armor stores.-- Hiro: "Where to first?" Scott: "Armor." * Kyoko on the way out kisses Ramus on the cheek. * Hiro enters the armor store * Zigfried puts the hood on and gets rid of the sweat drops. * Ramus turns redder than a tomato * Scott follows Hiro. "A dragon after my own heart." Callie: "OK... To armor if you want to, Scott." * Kyoko follows the party. * Zigfried enters the armor store. * Ebony hums merrily --The party enters the Armor Store-- Armor Clerk: "Welcome back. How may I help you?" Scott: "Let's see an inventory and quickly." ---Armor Store Inventory--- Metal Armor (Def + 50) [350 S] Polymer Suit (Def + 46) [200 S] Titanium Helmet (Def + 15) [75 S] Tin Gear (Def + 10) [65 S] Ceramic Shield (Dod% + 17) [95 S] Bronze Guard (Dod% + 15) [80 S] Nina: "I would like some Metal Armor." Armor Clerk: "One sec..." * Nina pulls off her Fiber Armor, plunks it on the counter Nina: "And I'll sell this." -Nina buys and equips Metal Armor (Def + 50) Scott: "I need Metal Armor." Scott: "I need the Metal Armor." -Fiber Armor sold for 63 S Armor Clerk: "Lemme grab that for you..." * Scott puts his Fiber Armor on the counter. "And I want to sell this." -Scott acquires and equips Metal Armor (Def + 50) -Fiber Armor sold for 63 S Scott: "Titanium Helmet please." Nina: "Well, we should let everyone get armor before buying more than one thing each." Armor Clerk: "Just gotta get it from the back room..." * Nina nudges Zig and Callie Scott: "After you two." -Scott acquires and equips Titanium Helmet (Def + 15) * Ebony yawns, hops into Zig's backpack Armor Clerk: "Wanna sell your old helmet?" Nina: "Why does he always do that when we start buying stuff?" Scott: "Yep." Zigfried: "Probably gets bored." Teal: "He hates shopping. Typical male..." * Scott gives the shop owner his old helmet. * Nina puts a hand to her mouth and giggles slightly at Teal -Steel Helmet sold for 20 S Scott: "Here we go with the snoring cat again." * Kyoko pets Ebony. Zigfried: "I'd like to get the Polymer Suit." Ebony: "I do NOT snore!" * Kyoko hands Ebony another fish. * Zigfried just knows his backpack is gonna smell like fish breath now. * Ebony grabs fish and retreats to Zig's backpack... Fish in his backpack, the perfect air freshener. Armor Clerk: "One sec..." Scott: "Callie?" Callie: "What?" Scott: "Your turn for armor." Callie: "I want to get my sword." -Zigfried acquires and equips Polymer Suit (Def + 46) Nina: "We have enough to get you a sword as well... Callie." Callie: "OK." Armor Clerk: "Sell your old suit?" Callie: "What's cheapest? =b" * Zigfried sells his Leather Suit. Callie: "I'll buy the Metal Armor." -Leather Suit sold for 58 S * Ebony tosses a fish bone out of Zig's backpack and pulls the flap shut * Zigfried notes the fish bone and hopes that all of the leftovers went out with it. Scott: "Now, Cals you need a shield and helmet. I need the shield and Zig the guard. Who's first." -Callie acquires and equips Metal Armor (Def + 50) Nina: "Helmet." Armor Clerk: "You there who just got the armor. You have lots of old stuff there too. Same applies to you with the claws." Callie: "Ah. OK. I'll sell." * Nina tosses her old helmet on the counter -Nina acquires and equips Titanium Helmet (Def + 15) Scott: "Ceramic Shield." -Steel Helmet sold for 20 S -Scott acquires and equips Ceramic Shield (Dod% + 17) Scott: "I'd like to sell my old shield." * Scott hands it to the shop owner. -Titanium Shield sold for 30 S Zigfried: "The Bronze Guard, please." * Nina looks at Callie "Does this helmet mess up my hair too much?" -Zigfried acquires and equips Bronze Guard (Dod% + 15) * Zigfried sells his old Tin Guard. Scott: "Your turn, Callie." -Tin Guard sold for 23 S Callie: "I'd like to sell my old stuff." -Callie's old stuff that she isn't wearing sold for 155 S Scott: "Good deal there." Callie: "Now might I buy something?" Armor Clerk: "Anything else?" Scott: "Do you want a new helmet and shield Cals?" Callie: "Umm... The helm." Callie: "Oh, if you'll let me both." * Kyoko looks thoughtful. -Callie acquires and equips Titanium Helmet (Def + 15) Kyoko: "You know, guys. We could sell our herbs and buy a ton of Silver Lights and I could heal us for less than we buy herbs... Armor Clerk: "Want the shield too?" Nina: "I would like a shield." -Nina acquires and equips Ceramic Shield (Dod% + 17) * Ebony drops Nina's old shield on the counter Armor Clerk: "Anything else?" Nina: "Hey... Where did you get my shield?" * Ebony shrugs and goes back to sleep -Titanium Shield sold for 30 S I'd like the Tin Gear. -Zigfried acquires and equips Tin Gear (Def + 10) * Zigfried will sell all his old stuff in his inventory barring his Pistol and the Ancient Lunar Map. Kyoko: "So, what do you guys think of my idea?" Scott: "Let's do. I can use a Starlight or two anyway." -Zigfried's old stuff sold for 155 S * Kyoko smiles. Armor Clerk: "Next?" Scott: "I think I've already sold all my old stuff except my hat which has a bit of sentimental value." * Nina assembles her new stuff comfortable about her person -Callie acquires and equips Ceramic Shield (Dod% + 17) Scott: "I have to find my best sword. Let me at those Neos." Armor Clerk: "All set?" Nina: "Weapons store?" Scott: "I guess so. Let's book it to the weapons shop." Teal: "Sounds good to me!" --The party exits the armor store and enters the neighboring weapons store.-- Weapons Clerk: "Howdy! What brings you here?" Scott: "It's all yours Callie." * Nina folds her arms and leans against the back wall Callie: "Yes. I'd like the best sword y got." Weapons Clerk: "Here's all we got..." ---Weapons Store Inventory--- Steel Sword (ATK + 60) [300 S] Steel Knife (ATK + 42) [100 S] Bronze Mallet (ATK + 55) [150 S] Nail Claw (ATK + 40, DEF + 9, Dod% + 3, # + 1) [200 S] Bull Whip (ATK + 55, Range Atk) [200 S] Weapons Clerk: "What'll it be?" * Nina pulls off a loose feather from her wings and toys with it Callie: "I'll take the Steel Sword." * Zigfried chills with Nina, but doesn't lean against the wall or he'll crush Ebony. Nina: "Want a feather?" * Nina smiles slightly a Zig Callie: "....." -Callie buys and equips Steel Sword (ATK + 60) Nina: "It's supposed to be a good omen." * Scott leans against the back wall with Zig and Nina. "Let's let Callie have a bit of fun." Callie: "Not particularly..." Weapons Clerk: "Anything else?" * Zigfried shrugs and smiles in return. Callie: "Mmm... Anyone else? I'll sell my old weapon." Zigfried: "Sure, Nina." Callie: "Sword." Nina: "I certainly have enough of them..." Nina: "No cloning me now." -Bronze Saber sold for 100 S * Zigfried chuckles. "I won't." Callie: "Feh. Cloning machines... Don't get me started on those..." Teal: "And to think it was all started by a Scottish goofball in the 20th century..." * Nina smoothes her feather, which are un-burned now thanks to a nice healing spell Scott: "Guys, we can get better magic devices in Vane." -Leather Whip sold for 18 S -Callie buys but does not equip Bull Whip (ATK + 55, Range Atk) Weapons Clerk: "All set?" Scott: "Are you, Callie?" Callie: "Yes, I am." Teal: "Kyoko, still wanna hit the Magic Store back on Black Rose St.?" Scott: "Let's go to Black Rose St." Kyoko: "Yea, that wand is calling my name, and we need to implement my Starlight plan." Kyoko: "OK, let's head to the magic shop." --The party exits the weapons store and makes haste for Black Rose St., where they enter the Magic Store.-- Kyoko: "Divide the money in half, Buy Starlights with half and keep the rest in pot." Magic Clerk: "How may I help you?" Kyoko: "First, I'd like that wand." Scott: "Inventory and news from Vane." ---Magic Store Inventory--- Gold Amulet (Dod% + 14) [100 S] Tiara (Def +8) [60 S] Wisdom Robe (Def + 38) [150 S] Fire Cane (ATK + 8, Wis + 8) [100 S] Sapphire Light [90000 S] Magic Clerk: "No news from Vane since you last came here I'm afraid." Kyoko: "Um. Problem." * Nina looks around. "Funny... No one has insulted my wings once since I've been with you all." Scott: "Dammit. I've got a bad feeling about this situation in Vane. I've got to get over there now." Zigfried: "Don't worry about it, Kyoko. There'll be another time." Kyoko: "Yea, Vane." Kyoko: "But I want that wand." Kyoko: "Pleaaaaaaaaaaase?" Scott: "Go ahead. I'll confirm." * Ebony peeks his head out. "I saw Vane fly!" Zigfried: [to Nina] "Don't question it, just be grateful." Magic Clerk: "Let me unpack one for you." Nina: "I'm not sure I trust it..." * Nina grins. "But then maybe you all are distracting people from me." * Kyoko hands her old wand to the clerk. -Kyoko buys and equips Fire Cane (ATK + 8, Wis + 8) -Water Cane sold for 23 S Zigfried: "I know I have been. That stupid deal Ramus was trying to cut..." Scott: "Could be worse, Zig. He could have wanted you to do a concert." Magic Clerk: "Anything else?" Teal: "Still, I can't see you cutting albums on the 'Fat Boy Records' label Zig..." Zigfried: "Actually that wouldn't be too bad. I like performing. But I wouldn't want to record for him." Scott: "Guys, let's buy one Starlight a piece and save the rest of our money." Teal: "All they have at this shop is Sapphire Lights though." Scott: "Good point. Let's book." Teal: "Kyoko, plan to stop by your shrine on the way to Vane?" Kyoko: "Yea, let's see what's going on at home." Nina: "Shall we move then?" Scott: "I'm game. I haven't been by the shrine in three years." Scott: "Let's book." Kyoko: "Let's go." Ruby: "We're outta here!" --The group exits the Magic Store, leaves Black Rose St. and notices an Althena's Statue just before they leave Meribia.-- * Zigfried nods and heads out of the shop. * Kyoko touches the statue. * Scott touches the statue. * Callie does, too. --Everyone's HP/MP restored-- * Scott leaves Meribia and heads to the New Althena's Shrine. * Callie follows Scott. Teal: "Look, it's the shrine right up ahead!" * Nina walks along behind everyone Kyoko: "Home!" Callie: "Well, Scott... Are you from Vane? Is that why you're always checking on it?" * Kyoko runs up to the shrine! --When Kyoko arrives at the shrine, she is greeted warmly by Marie, a fellow priestess.-- Marie: "Kyoko! How good to see you again!" * Ebony yawns, looks out backpack. "Where are we?" Scott: "I was here about five years ago. Marina Ausa saved my ass big time when I was hired by Ramus to exterminate a pack of monsters. I owe her." Kyoko: "Marie!!!!!!!!!" * Callie looks around the shrine and feels oddly comfortable here... Zigfried: "We're at the Althena's Shrine." Marie: "Where have you been!? We were so worried after we heard about what happened at the concert!" Ebony: "THE? That big one?" Scott: "She's been in good company, Marie." Teal: "Yes Uncle!" Zigfried: "Yeah, *the*." * Callie smiles. Kyoko: "Marie, I'd like to introduce my friends, Callie, Nina, Scott, Ebony, Teal, Hiro, Ruby, and Zigfried Brandl." --The group enters the beautiful New Althena's Shrine. It's holy beauty is a marked contrast to the various Neo Pharosian strongholds they had visited before.-- * Ebony climbs to Zig's shoulder Marie: "You mean *the* Zigfried?!" Ebony: "Pretty..." Kyoko: "Yep!" Ebony: "Reminds me of my shrine... Just more... White." Marie: "Wow, I'm amazed! Can I have your autograph!?" Zigfried: "Um... Certainly." --There is a chest in a corner of the shrine. It appears unopened...-- Marie: "Thanks! Here's a pen and my autograph book!" Kyoko: "Marie, oh boy!" Kyoko: "The world has gone to heck and back." * Scott looks at the chest. "Marie, do you have any idea what's in that chest?" * Zigfried removed his hood so he can see better and signs Marie's autograph book. Kyoko: "What do you know about Nephar?" Marie: "Nope... It's been here a long time but no one knows who owns it." Marie: "Kyoko, I only know what's been in the news." Nina: "And no one's ever opened it?" Scott: "Let's check it out." * Scott opens the chest. --Scott finds the Mizuno Ring (*enables Aqua Blast - 3 MP) Kyoko: "Man, Pharos is back, all these things going wrong and... SCOTT!!!!!!!!" Callie: "What a lovely looking ring!" Nina: "A ring huh?" -Scott equips the Mizuno Ring Kyoko: "Scott, who said you could take that?!" Zigfried: "Good point, Kyoko." Scott: "Well, Marie just said that no one knows who owns it and it's been here for some time." Scott: "They snooze, they lose." Zigfried: "Shouldn't the shrine own it then?" Callie: "I know!" Marie: "Well, you guys are out fighting Nephar, aren't you?" Callie: "Marie, may we use this in our quest?" Scott: "Yes, we are." Marie: "Take it then if you feel it may help you!" Nina: "How kind." Callie: "Thank you, miss." Kyoko: "Marie, you're letting them take the treasure? Wow!" Scott: "I'll leave something with you that I've carried with me for twelve years, to show that I will return the ring." Marie: "Just promise to bring it back when you're done, OK?" Marie: "What is it?" * Scott hands Marie the hat and an old volume of short stories. Scott: "This book is very old. Take good care of it." * Kyoko gets a classic anime sweat drop. Marie: "Thank you..." Scott: "Oh, don't read one of the stories. It'll give you nightmares." Ebony: "I could fix this place up nice..." * Callie looks at Scott. "I've always wondered what color your hair was... Scott: "OK." Ebony: "Some nice carvings..." Marie: "I understand..." Ebony: "A few statues..." Scott: "The story is 'The Cask of Amontillado.'" Zigfried: "Carvings are a nice form of art..." Marie: "I think my penpal on the Blue Star told me about that one... It does sound scary!" * Scott's hair is reddish brown. Scott: "Edgar Allen Poe was one of the best writers on the Blue Star." Kyoko: "Marie, I'm real concerned about Nephar and this temple." Ebony: "Never liked him much myself..." Ebony: "Not enough dragon stories." Kyoko: "These are the Four Dragons of Althena." Kyoko: "They already have their Auras." * Ebony takes a bow Marie: "Don't worry Kyoko... This temple was built with the assistance of Dragonmaster Alex II just after the Unification War. Legend has it that he will return to defend it if it should be attacked." Kyoko: "And the Demonmasters are getting stronger." Marie: "What? The Four Dragons lost their Auras!?" * Callie solemnly nods. Zigfried: "Unfortunately so." Kyoko: "Yes, Pharos and Nephar took them." Scott: "We'll defend this place and the two worlds, Marie. Don't you worry about a thing." Marie: "This is not good... Not good at all. Have you found any of the Heroes' Crests yet?" Marie: "With the Dragons Auraless, they may be our last hope..." Zigfried: "Not yet. We're on our way to get them." Ebony: "Oh gee... Make us sound totally useless." Marie: "Good luck then. I heard the trials to earn them are really difficult..." Callie: "Marie, do YOU know what the sixth is called?" Scott: "I'm up to it." Marie: "Sorry little black one... Ebony is it?" * Nina isn't sure she believes all this Dragon stuff Ebony: "Ahhh, you've heard of me?" Marie: "All I know is that the sixth one is the Crest of Justice." Scott: "What of the White Trial?" Kyoko: "Guys, the task set before us is great." Marie: "Yes... The builders of the shrine mentioned you and your name is contained in the sacred texts..." Marie: "That is the Trial of Courage. White Knight Alexis is the keeper of that crest." Callie: "Ah! The ever sacred Ebony!" Ebony: "He he..." Ebony: "I kinda like that." Scott: "This sounds like fun." Teal: "As if his head wasn't big enough Callie..." Marie: "The keeper of the Crest of Justice is unknown however... At least by me. Maybe in Vane you'll find more information." Callie: "Haha! Any bigger and he'll have trouble flying..." Scott: "Now you go and give him a real ego trip. Way to go, Cals." Ebony: "No respect..." Ruby: "Don't worry, I'll keep his ego down!" Hiro: "Mom, ever so predictable..." * Ebony shows his maturity by sticking his tongue out at everyone Ruby: "Did you say something Hiro!?" Hiro: "No mom..." * Zigfried smirks and pets Ebony. Callie: "That intrigues me... I wonder whatever it could be held by..." Hiro: "Anyway, should we get over to Vane soon then?" Marie: "Well, one theory does claim Ghaleon holds the sixth crest, but no one knows for sure." Kyoko: "I guess." Zigfried: "Yeah, we'd better." Scott: "Let's get going to Vane, folks. If we wait any longer, Nephar himself will be breathing down the backs of our necks." Kyoko: "GHALEON!!!!!!!??????????" Marie: "Promise you'll take care of yourself Kyoko!" Marie: "Yes, Ghaleon. He assisted the Five Heroes of Lucia." Ebony: "Hasn't Ghaleon been used enough?" Kyoko: "Oh, the good Ghaleon." Marie: "Of course... Not his dark side that arose from his madness over the loss of Dyne..." * Scott starts to walk off toward Vane. * Zigfried pulls his hood up and waits by the exit to the shrine. * Kyoko smiles. Callie: "Ghaleon... He's... That emperor guy..." Nina: "He once lead the Vile Tribe." Marie: "Farewell and good luck! I'll pray constantly for your success!" Ebony: "No duh Nina." Kyoko: "I'll take care of myself and these guys. Keep the prayers coming, and keep the resistance going!" * Callie notices Scott leave and follows. Kyoko: "We need all we can get." * Nina glances at Ebony. "I like you... But you do get annoying sometimes." --The group exits the shrine and makes tracks for Vane.-- Ebony: "I do?" * Ebony looks at Zig. "Do I?" * Zigfried smiles and shrugs. "Annoying is a matter of opinion, Ebony." Scott: "Now I get to see if I can calm Marina down a little." Ebony: "A roundabout answer... So what's YOUR opinion?" Kyoko: "Man, home looks good." Kyoko: "Scott, you take care of that ring now!" --As the group approaches Vane, they see a large crowd of people gathered outside the city in the distance.-- Callie: "Yea... Calm her down by telling her Nephar is coming to haunt us." Zigfried: "I don't usually form many. But you're not annoying." Scott: "I was glad to see the place, Ky. Haven't been there in three years." Ebony: "Gee... Thanks... What do you think Kyoko?" Scott: "What is this?" --Soon, the party arrives at the outskirts of Vane, wondering why all these people are gathered outside the city.-- Callie: "Is Vane usually this crowded?" * Scott races to find out what's going on. Kyoko: "I think Ebony is nice." *handing him another fish* Vane Citizen: "I wonder how much longer before it rises..." Ebony: "I think I like you." Scott: "Not usually. What the hell's going on?" Callie: "Rises??" Vane Citizen: "You don't know? Vane's returning to the skies any minute now!" Kyoko: "THIS IS A MISTAKE!" * Scott looks at the city. Ebony: "This should be entertaining..." * Zigfried nods. Nina: "Or disappointing." Vane Citizen: "Yeah... Marina is still angry about it. She's over there...." Kyoko: "M-I-S-T-A-K-E!" Scott: "This can't be. How are they gong to do this?" Kyoko: "LEAVE VANE ALONE!" --The Vane Citizen points towards a young woman with medium-length light brown hair-- * Kyoko runs over to Marina. Vane Citizen: "Only the Guild and Marina Ausa know for sure..." * Scott races toward Marina Ausa. "Marina, how is the Guild going to raise Vane?" Kyoko: "Marina..." Marina Ausa: "Who in the name of Althena are you!?" * Zigfried follows Scott and Kyoko to Marina. Marina Ausa: "Wait a sec... Is that you Scott? Is she a friend of yours?" Scott: "Yes, she is." Scott: "Now what the hell's going on?" Kyoko: "I am Kyoko Ayukawa, priestess to Althena, ma'am, and opposer to Vane's rise to the skies again." Marina Ausa: "Sorry for my rude greeting then... I've been under a lot of stress lately..." Ebony: "Hiya miss Ausa." Marina Ausa: "Vane's rising back to the sky soon, and I agree with you fully miss priestess..." Marina Ausa: "Well hello there, umm, talking kitty..." Scott: "Marina, how?" Kyoko: "Althena wished Vane to fall, and it only made it better!" Marina Ausa: "Some goofball arrived at Vane claiming that he could make it return to the sky via some sort of machine. Naturally I was against this..." Kyoko: "Vane now allows all creeds to enter." Ebony: "Talking kitty... You'd think everyone would know what flying kitties are by now." Kyoko: "Returning it to the skies is a BIG mistake." Callie: "A MACHINE IS DOING THIS!!" Scott: "Through technology? This city won't be in the skies. It'll be in ORBIT!" Ebony: "Ick... Technology." Zigfried: "What sort of machine is doing this?" Kyoko: "PHAROS!!!!!!!!!!!" Callie: "Then I'm yet more opposed! A machine should not make a MAGIC city float!" Marina Ausa: "Well, Vane will be the same, just in the air. I HATE how they are accomplishing this though... However, that guy sold the guild on the idea..." Kyoko: "I knew I smelled his Pharaoh butt all over this!" Scott: "Who is this guy?" Marina Ausa: "Pharos? I don't think he was involved..." * Nina stands quietly, having no opinion about raising Vane Marina Ausa: "I don't know. He did seem to walk with a very stiff gait..." Callie: "Yes! Who is it!! I'll slash him in two!!" * Callie tries to sustain herself. ;) Scott: "I don't like this, folks. I smell Nephar all over this." Zigfried: "Mechanotron?" * Ebony snickers, extends his wings. "If cities were meant to fly they'd have wings?" Scott: "Mechanotron. I knew it." Marina Ausa: "Well, whoever he is, he is an articulate talker, even if he is a bit too formal. He convinced the Magic Guild that 'any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.' Baloney!" Callie: "OOOOO!!!!" Kyoko: "Indeed!" Kyoko: "Technology will never replace Magic!" Marina Ausa: "Anyway... If I have the time right... Vane should be lifting off... Now!" Scott: "That's a load of crap, Marina, and you know it as well as I do." Callie: "I'm not particularly fond of magic but it is MUCH better than infernal machinery!!" * Zigfried looks at the city. * Scott looks at Vane. --The entire ground starts to shake as Vane begins to free itself from the "earth."-- * Nina watches Marina Ausa: "Oh well..." Scott: "Dammit." Callie: "Oh dear..." * Zigfried sighs. --Within minutes, Vane hovers, seemingly peacefully in the skies above Katarina.-- Scott: "That city won't just be in the skies. It'll wind up in orbit. I know it." Marina Ausa: "So far nothing's bad has happened..." * Ebony watches the moving description of Vane's liftoff --A large cheer can be heard from the crowd now that Vane is back in the sky-- Ebony: "C'mon Marina... It's dangerous to say things like that." Kyoko: "It's all over..." Zigfried: "We'll see." --Suddenly, Vane ends its stationary hover and begins to accelerate towards the east.-- * Nina looks impressed Marina Ausa: "What the..." Scott: "Do what?" Zigfried: "As I said..." Callie: "DAMMIT!!! ......#%$@##@$%!@#@# MACHINES!! @#^&$%@#$%^&@#^" Marina Ausa: "Wait a minute... In that direction..." Kyoko: "PHAROS!!!!!!!!!!!" Scott: "Marina, can you use transfer magic?" Ebony: "Told you so." Callie: "#$%^@#?@$()^#@$%Q#$??@?@#@#^#$!!@%@$@!?!?!!?!?" Marina Ausa: "By Althena herself! I think Vane's going to crash into the Star Tower if it keeps that course!" Scott: "We've got to get up there and NOW!" Kyoko: "We gotta stop it... NOW!" Ebony: "Hey, that's our only way back to the Blue Star!" * Zigfried wonders what's so important about having a flying Vane motor off somewhere. Callie: "Is there any way to stop it??" Zigfried: "Oh shoot!" Marina Ausa: "No, I can't... However, the Fountain of Transfer still works!" Kyoko: "The fountain!" Scott: "Let's get there, folks." Kyoko: "NOW!" Ebony: "Um... What about the Cave of Trial?" Marina Ausa: "The controls to the machine that makes Vane fly are in the Cave of Trial." Kyoko: "We need to be at the fountain, like yesterday!" * Scott races to the Fountain of Transfer. Zigfried: "Great. We'd better hurry up." Marina Ausa: "It was mostly cleaned out to make room for the machines. However, some of the creatures and exterminator robots may still be there." Callie: "GOOD!!! I'LL TEAR THEM APART WITH MY BARE HANDS!!" * Kyoko runs to the fountain. * Callie races along * Zigfried chases after everyone. Marina Ausa: "Scott... Thanks for doing this! I have to stay here and watch over the citizens of Vane... Good luck..." Kyoko: "Come along, Marina." Scott: "Let's go, go, go!!!!" Scott: "leave it to us, Marina!" * Kyoko races ahead of all. Marina Ausa: "I can't! I need to protect my people!" Kyoko: "OK!" --Finally the party converges at the Fountain of Transfer.-- Nina: "Hey... Wait!" * Nina runs after them Callie: "But... If we wreck it or mess it up at all... won't it crash to the ground?" * Kyoko runs into the transfer pad. * Zigfried slows a little so Nina can catch up with him. Scott: "Then we'll find a way to change it's course." Teal: "Let me handle it... I think I may be able to fly that thing. I learned a bit about machines when I lived with Lou." * Scott gets onto the transfer pad. Kyoko: "We're not going to crash it, we're going to move it." * Zigfried gets to the transfer pad. --The group steps onto the transfer pad and materializes in the center of Vane, not in the trial cave. They can feel the wind rush by as Vane zooms towards the Star Tower.-- Ebony: "I don't like machines." Ebony: "This isn't right..." Teal: "I agree with you Uncle... Vane should stay magical...>> Scott: "There's a way into the cave here. Follow me." * Zigfried nods. * Zigfried runs along after Scott. * Scott runs toward the Trial Cave entrance. * Kyoko runs to the Trial Cave. * Ebony points Zig towards the Trial Cave entrance... "Scott isn't the only one who's been here before." * Callie races along. * Nina follows... as usual --As the party enters the Trial Cave, they find it has been turned into a high tech dungeon not unlike those used by the Neo Pharosians...-- Callie: "OOOOOOO!! I *HATE* this!!" Scott: "Dammit. Let's find these controls." Teal: "We need to get to the bottom of this!" Scott: "And quickly, Teal." Callie: "Look at the metal walls! Pure evil, I tell you!" * Zigfried sighs. "This isn't going to be easy." Scott: "It never is, Zig." --As the group descends into the cave, the way looks empty... So far...-- * Scott runs through the dungeon, looking for the controls to the city. Callie: "I hear a noise!" Teal: "What is it?" Callie: "It... Sounds like..." * Zigfried listens carefully and straps his claws on. Callie: "Electricity!!" * Scott has his sword out. Callie: "Good thing I have these big ears! =D" --Just then, a wall panel bursts open and several monsters can be seen chewing on wires...-- Ebony: "Monsters..." Callie: "AH!" Zigfried: "Scheisse!" Scott: "S***. Let's get them!" --The monsters view the party and prepare to attack!--- Kyoko: "DIE! * Callie draws her sword in a Junon stance. ;) ===SESSION END===