Lunar: Middleground IRC RPG Session 13
Session Start: Saturday, 31 August, 1996, 19:45:50
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Cast of Characters:
Hahn as "Gamemaster, Magic Guard, Mia, Lemia, Rimzol, Franco, Kara,
Ramus, Salty Sailor, Master Mel, Mr. Markin, Hag, Priest,
Sailor, Captain, Tavern Dude, Barkeep, Mr. Okita, Diana,
Caravan Dude, Guardian, Villager, Tam, Rand, Danyen,
Janise, Citrine, Boy, Sebastian, Shaman, Woman, Old Woman"
Luna as "Isis"
Vecna as "Eomar"
Kenshiro as "Thesian"
Ronfar as "Davis"
Nall as "Bulix"
Dragonmaster Blake as "Ebony"
Dragonmaster Lou as "Lou" (Hahn as ~Lou)
Iceberg as "Iceberg, Girlie"
Miko as "Miko"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Magic Guard: "Ahem... Miss Mia? There's a girl here at the door. She
says she belongs here. Should I let her in?"
Mia: "Who... who is it?"
* Miko walks through the doors into the great hall.
Mia: "Oh, it's here. Welcome. Your seat is still waiting, miss Miko."
Lemia: "Welcome, miss Miko. Please make yourself comfortable."
Ebony: "Miko! There you are!"
* Miko heads over and sits down with Ebony and Davis. "Thank you," she
says to Mia.
* Ebony leaves his plate, which has been empty for a while anyway, and
scoots over near Miko.
* Thesian looks relieved to see attention turning to Miko. Maybe a
little *too* relieved...
* Rimzol still eyes Thesian suspiciously...
* Iceberg appears in the middle of the Hall with his clothes ripped off
by some kind of animal... Maybe a tigress...
~~~There is a plate of steaming venison and vegetables awaiting Miko
near the head of the table among the rest of the group.~~~
* Bulix throws one last glare at Nash and waves to Miko.
* Miko waves back at Bulix and begins to fill her plate with food.
* Ebony steals food from Lou's plate...
* Iceberg eats silently, trying to think slowly...
Rimzol: "As I was saying earlier, I think Davis and Eomar have some
considerable latent magical talent. The academies here would be
perfect to settle you all down! Just look what it's done for Iceberg
and this girl here! Say, girl, I forgot to ask. Which academy are you
from again? If any academy other than my own is turning out gems like
you, I'm in trouble! I have to stay competitive, you know!"
Iceberg: "Rizmol, you have the best student... Don't worry..."
* Bulix snickers at Iceberg's comment, then quickly composes himself.
Rimzol: "I know that, Iceberg. You are my brightest! I hope you
haven't been sharing my teaching secrets with her. She better not be
a product of Elisa's academy. No! I bet it's that darn Sharna!"
Ebony: "Miko's not from Vane."
Iceberg: "But, she's still pretty damn good! Even better she has a gold
heart..."
* Miko looks up at Rimzol, chewing a mouth full of food and wondering
what's going on. "Are... are you talking to me?"
* Rimzol turns to Miko. "Yes, girl. Which academy were you educated at?
I think I need to do some re-evaluating of my competitors! Ha ha ha!"
Miko: "Academy..? What do you mean?"
Ebony: "He wants to know who here in Vane taught you magic."
Rimzol: "Wow. Such magical knowledge, and all those academy years
hasn't killed her sense of humor one bit! I love it!"
Miko: "I've never been in an 'academy'... At least I don't think so...
And I don't know those people you just mentioned."
Rimzol: "Of course you're kidding, lass. No one could have such an
awakened and living aura of magic like yours without years and years
of formal magic education and practice."
Bulix: "Rimzol.. I don't think anyone here _did_ teach her magic. She's
serious!"
Ebony: "Hey, Miko wouldn't lie! Tell what's-his-name, Points!"
* Miko looks around uncomfortably and continues eating, hanging her
head and trying to avoid further notice.
Iceberg: "Miko, don't be shy, Rizmol is one of the best magicians after
Mia and Nash. He taught me the most I know now..."
* Nash seems slightly alarmed by Iceberg's comment, then realizes he
placed Rimzol *below* Nash, then relaxes back in his seat.
* Bulix glances at Nash, then gets a slightly evil grin on his face.
"Nah.. I'd say Rimzol is better than Nash."
* Nash's gaze instantly turns to Bulix.
* Iceberg eyes Bulix. "We can read your mind... So don't be a heretic.
He isn't Guild Premier for nothing..."
* Bulix glares at Iceberg at the mind reading comment, and starts
thinking some decidedly profane and/or obscene things, just to see
who turns bright red first.
* Iceberg sends a little headache spell over Bulix, only if he
continues thinking about the girls in the party totally naked...
* Isis looks at Bulix. "What?" She gives Bulix the 'evil eye'...
Nash: "Speaking of magic, how much resistance to lightning do you
people have?"
* Thesian turns his gaze from Miko to Nash.
Ebony: "I dunno, I don't get hit with it much."
* Ebony looks at Nash "And I'd like to keep it that way."
* Isis looks up to Bulix and Nash and giggles. "*Resistance* to
lightning?"
Iceberg: "G.P. Nash, as I'm an Ice Shadow wizard, not much 'cause of
my ice dedication..."
* Thesian plays with a coin as he watches Nash with interest.
* Nash harumphs at Bulix and folds his arms.
* Bulix laughs.
* Ebony peeks up from the edge of the table, looking for unprotected
plates of food.
* Miko continues to display quite a voracious appetite and poor table
manners. She has obviously never been in a formal situation such as
this.
* Isis doesn't really much care for formal manners..
* Miko clears her plate and looks toward Davis. "Davis, are you going
to eat all of yours..?"
* Davis notes that his plate is empty.
* Thesian chews on a piece of food, and watches Miko thoughtfully.
* Miko eventually looks up at Rimzol. "Sir, I... I don't know what to
say... Thank you, but I have never been... 'educated' in... magic...
and I don't even practice."
Iceberg: "Rizmol, let's be serious. Miko is an auto-didact, she
learned all she knows in battle, and in her *supersecret* town."
Rimzol: "She... I'm almost ready to think she's not kidding! Where on
Lunar are you from, girl?"
* Miko looks uncomfortable and looks back at the doors from which she
entered, as if she is thinking of leaving again. "Sir, I... I'm
from... well, It's near Meribia, right, Davis?"
Davis: "Yes, it is. I never found out the name of the town, though."
Miko: "Yes, near Meribia, sir. It's just a small village. You wouldn't
have heard of it."
Mia: "Miko, is this... small village where you are headed after the
banquet?"
* Miko looks up at Mia. "Yes. I'm going home to see my brother. I
haven't decided what I'm going to do after that."
Mia: "I see."
Ebony: "I wish I could go with you, Miko..."
Miko: "Ebony, why can't you go with me? I don't understand. I thought
you really wanted to. Did something happen while I was outside?"
Ebony: "Miko... I was told that Lou and I must find Alex... that the
fate of everyone depends on it."
Miko: "But Ebony, why YOU? Why do you have to go? Can't Lou take...
... I don't know... Someone else besides you?"
* Ebony sighs. "Because I'm the black dragon. It was my father. He said
it had to be me and Lou."
* Miko looks at Ebony and then continues eating. "Oh. Okay... Well, I
guess if you promised your father..."
* Ebony looks down. "I wish I wasn't a requirement for this Alex
thing..."
* Bulix leans back and just glares at Nash, not certain as to what
he's going to do.
* Ebony whispers, "Father? I will do as you asked me, father... I just
won't like it..."
Rimzol: "Iceberg, my student. Have you decided where your destiny
lies?"
Iceberg: "Rizmol, I only can say that Madame Costalotta said that one
word from mine will save the world..."
* Miko looks at Iceberg at his mention of Madame Costalotta. "She was
right about all the women, Iceberg."
Ebony: "Lou and I could use your help, Points."
* Iceberg would like see the Cat begging for help... "If the Cat asks
me saying please and he flies on one wing I'll think about it."
Ebony: "Points... I would hope that 'saving the world' would be a
better decider than humiliating me."
Iceberg: "Well, Ebony, I'm sorry... I will show more respect in the
future to the Black Dragon, maybe in two years time."
* Lemia eyes the conversation with interest. "If you are... then...
How remarkable! Ebony, if you are planning on going to Caldor, then
perhaps you could meet your uncle!"
Ebony: "Uncle?"
Lemia: "Ahh... I don't mean to get your hopes up. I'm not sure
exactly what you are, but if you are what I think you might be..."
* Rimzol looks very pained at Iceberg. "My pupil. I must know. What do
you plan to do? I have to know if you will be safe. I feel I'm
responsible for your life."
Iceberg: "Ébano, I guess I'll go with ya... A Cat and a Dragonmaster
wanna-be, it's not enough to find Alex. You'll need someone
intelligent, brave, handsome, and... er... humble."
Ebony: "We'll welcome your help... even if you have been hanging around
Nash too long."
Rimzol: "So you're going to Caldor... . Alright. Then perhaps
the time has come for you to go out on your own. It just pains me to
let you out of my sight. And Bulix, I certainly hope you're planning on
protecting him, right?"
Ebony: "Sure Bulix, you can come, too."
Iceberg: "Rizmol, my Heal at seven would make Naviria proud of me..."
Rimzol: "Heal at... Seven? What are you talking about? I'm not familiar
with this leveling system you seem to have devised."
* Miko looks at Davis and whispers, "Davis, can we go now... This is
kind of... well, boring... I want to go home now."
Davis: "Miko, well, not until Bulix has made his decision."
* Bulix looks at Rimzol. "I probably should keep an eye on Iceberg, at
least for a while.. and I feel kinda responsible for Ebony's safety,
too.."
Iceberg: "Ebony, we better go only three. Miko and Davis will need
someone strong, like Bulix...."
Ebony: "Well... I want Miko to be safe, but it's not my decision."
* Miko looks at Iceberg. "No! I... I mean... no, that's okay. We'll be
fine."
* Ebony says quietly to Miko, "It's taking saving the world to make me
leave you... Miko... I... You're my... well, I really like being
with you."
Miko: "Ebony, I like being with you, too. I wish you were coming home
with me now. I wanted you to meet everybody."
Ebony: "I'll get to see your town sometime... if not with this
adventure... when it's all over..."
* Rimzol breathes a sigh of relief. "Ahh... then Iceberg will be safe
after all. And who knows? Perhaps getting out of Vane is just what
Iceberg needs. And Bulix, I don't believe you've ever been to Caldor
Isle. It's good to get out and see things you aren't used to from time
to time."
* Bulix glances toward Iceberg and Ebony. "If you'd rather have me stay
with Miko..."
* Miko looks at Bulix. "Bulix, that's okay. You really don't want to
see my village. There's nothing much to do or anything... Thanks,
anyway."
* Bulix nods to Miko. "Then I'll stick with Ice."
* Miko looks somewhat relieved and smiles at Bulix.
Rimzol: "Bulix, I hate to see you talking like this! Stop obeying
others and trying to find out what other people want of you! Take a
stand and make your own choices!"
* Bulix looks back to Rimzol. "Rimzol, Rimzol. I don't really care
where I go. Besides, if I were in that habit of doing things
impulsively, certain people would be spleen-less."
* Mia seems slightly turned off by Bulix's mention of spleens at
dinner...
* Bulix glances apolegetically at Mia. "Sorry."
* Mia clears her throat. "Well, it seems that the banquet is starting
to draw to a close. Is there anything any of you need?"
Ebony: "An army?"
Bulix: "A cool million silver?"
* Isis just hopes she figures all of this magic stuff out..
Iceberg: "Well, Mia, we just want to go to Vane's shops..."
Davis: "Iceberg, that does sound like a good idea. I'm up for it."
Mia: "Well, none of the shops are operational yet. The rehabitation
still has a ways to go, Iceberg."
* Miko looks at Iceberg. "That's true... When I was outside looking
around, I didn't see anything for sale. All the buildings looked
empty. It was really... boring."
Mia: "Then I bid farewell to all of you. I know you each have your own
individual dreams and aspirations to follow now. I wish all of you
luck in whatever you pursue."
* Iceberg thinks quietly... "Maybe if I return full of glory, I will
become Guild Premier..."
* Nash seems *very* alarmed at Iceberg's comment. "What? No! I have not
been told of this possibility! Where does it state in the Guild Law
that he can become premier? Show me!"
* Iceberg shows Nash some of History... "Ghaleon was, why not me?"
Nash: "Your magic is nothing compared to mine. I have studied long
and hard for my awesome power."
* Iceberg looks to Nash. "Yes, yes, and Mia's Bromide was an
aspirin..."
* Davis will ignore any comments that follow Iceberg's. He really
hates heated debates.
* Bulix rolls his eyes, and mutters, "Well, he certainly practiced
bragging a lot."
Iceberg: "Nash, talking about your magic, you *do* have Thunder, too,
as Thesian and Isis... where did you learn it?"
* Nash huffs at Iceberg and looks away.
* Bulix looks back at Nash, and laughs again.
* Thesian excuses himself and goes to look for the facilities.
* Miko wanders away from the table and looks out the window.
* Ebony slowly follows Miko. "Miko... please be careful..."
Miko: "Ebony, I'll be fine. Don't worry. I'm just going home. I know
Sebastian can't be sick anymore."
Ebony: "Yeah... He'll be fine... I'm sure..."
Mia: "Yes, nearly all of the patients have recovered now. Semila is
well on her way to recovery with a little healing magic."
* Miko smiles at Mia. "I'm so glad."
Iceberg: "Miko, just look for us when you return... Please? We'll miss
ya..."
Ebony: "We'll find Alex... then we can meet again."
Bulix: "Cheer up, Ebony. How much trouble could Miko get into on her
way home? Besides, Davis'll be with her.. she'll be fine."
Davis: "Bulix, yeah, nothing should go wrong."
Ebony: "Yeah..."
* Miko looks back at Mia. "Thank you for dinner. It was nice meeting
all of you."
Ebony: "I wish I could hug you, Miko..."
* Miko smiles at Ebony. "Ebony, this isn't like goodbye or anything, I
guess... It's not like we're not going to see each other or
anything... But... okay..."
* Miko hugs Ebony.
* Ebony smiles. "It's not goodbye..."
Miko: "Just hurry up and fix whatever's wrong so you and Azura and me
can be together again. Then we can travel and do all the fun stuff
we wanted."
Ebony: "We are both heading towards Meribia... Maybe we will be
together a little longer..."
* Thesian finally wanders back. "So what's up, people?"
* Miko says to Thesian, "I think we were just leaving..."
Isis: "Well, shall we, Thesian and Eomar?"
Mia: "Good luck, you all. I wish you nothing but the best of luck."
Iceberg: "Rizmol, I'm sure I will return. Just take care of Estyo. I
don't want to see him in trouble, and give a look to GalForD. He is
getting on my nerves..."
Rimzol: "Don't worry, Iceberg. Your friends will be fine until you get
back."
Ebony: "Sure you don't wanna come Nash? Show us all just how great
you are?"
Nash: "Well, I'm sure finding a single person is one of the few things
within your power, so I'll put myself to good use here, somewhere
important."
* Bulix nods. "I agree completely Nash, and when we find Alex, I'll be
sure to tell him that you mentioned that he wasn't important."
Ebony: "Uh huh... right... Finding something that took out a
Dragonmaster, no big deal..."
Davis: "Took out? What do you mean? I thought you were just going to
find Alex?"
Ebony: "We're going to find him because something happened to him.
Somehow, I don't think its as simple as his phone being off the hook."
Mia: "Phone...?"
Davis: "Ebony, I kinda agree with you there, except for the 'phone'
part... What in Lunar is a 'phone'?"
Ebony: "If you have to ask you'll never know..."
Iceberg: "Don't say it, Ebano. It just came to your mind..."
Davis: "Is it a fishing stick or something? You did mention a hook."
Bulix: "Maybe it's like a coat, fell off of where it was hanging?"
Ebony: "Okay, okay, enough with the phone!"
Davis: "I guess he's not gonna tell us..."
* Ebony wonders if anyone tried E-mailing Alex.
Iceberg: "His host is down. I tried to..."
* Davis isn't even gonna bother asking.
~~~The guild leaders and academy heads stand up and wish all you a
solemn farewell.~~~
Iceberg: "A farewell? Not cute dancers or presents? Nah..."
* Davis waves back.
* Miko wanders outside for a last look around the flying city...
* Iceberg goes finding his parents, Antera and Friero... And he returns
with tears in his eyes..
* Bulix glances to the door, glares at Nash, glances to the door.
* Nash holds his spleen protectively.
* Iceberg hugs all the companions and goes to the teleport pad...
* Bulix looks _very_ uncomfortable when Iceberg hugs him. "Umm.. er..
*gag*"
Iceberg: "Bulix, you come with me... I don't need to hug you!"
* Bulix glares at Nash one last time, and heads out the door, glad to
be leaving Vane, and hoping that he never has to return.
Iceberg: "Vane, I will miss you. I'll return..."
* Thesian finally leaves the hall, following Isis and Eomar. "Well, I
guess this is it, guys... splitsville."
* Bulix nods to everyone as they leave.
Isis: "Goodbye, friends.. Where are we going to meet up at?"
Iceberg: "What about Meribia? Mel would accept us as guests!"
* Eomar has an incredibly low affinity for geography and maps.
"Uh... is Tamur near Azura's cave?"
* Thesian shrugs. "Well, the caravan is heading in that general
direction...."
Eomar: "Well, I suppose we should take it then. Of course, that would
mean we have to head to Lann first."
Thesian: "So our quest begins... Okay, let's hit the road!"
Eomar: "Okay, off to Lann!!"
* Isis instinctively leads the group.
~~~The transfer pad lies before them...~~~
* Eomar heads through the transfer pad.
* Thesian follows, and steps into the transfer area.
* Ebony catches Miko before she goes. "Until we meet again, Miko."
Miko: "Ebony..."
Davis: "Well, shall we be moving along?"
* Miko turns to Davis and smiles. "Yes, I'm all ready. Let's go."
Davis: "Yes, let's."
* Franco awaits Davis and Miko at the transfer pad. "Oh, you two. Are
we all set to go?"
Davis: "Yes, we're ready to go."
* Miko follows Davis and Franco, but continues to look back at Ebony.
* Davis, Miko, and Franco leave Vane using the transportation pad.
* Ebony sighs and trudges back to his group. "Well? Who knows how to
get to Meribia?"
Bulix: "I do.. We head north, then west, then south."
Iceberg: "Ebano, according to Vane's maps, we should find the Goddess'
shrine first... then west and south."
Ebony: "Shouldn't we get started so we can get this over with?"
Iceberg: "We can begin walking."
Ebony: "You walk... I'll ride."
* Iceberg looks the last time Vane with nostalgia... and continues
walking with the black cat fluttering around Lou's head...
* Bulix walks along, whistling, glad to be out of that blasted flying
city.
~~~The natural surroundings seem much more pleasant than they did when
you first arrived during the occupation. The birds are singing and
the daylight seems much brighter. ~~~
* Bulix makes sure he's walking at the back of the group, turns, gives
Vane the one fingered salute, laughs, and turns, walking on.
Ebony: "I wonder what Lemia meant about meeting my 'uncle'..."
Iceberg: "Maybe your father has a brother."
Ebony: "I thought all the old dragons died."
~~~The road seems fairly easy to navigate, and you can see Meribia
across the plains... near the sea.~~~
Ebony: "Wow... It's a big town."
* Bulix nods. "Agreed."
Ebony: "At least its right side up."
* Iceberg puts his cap on and begins saying, "Meribia, great city near
the sea, known in all Lunar 'cause his port and the jewelers shops,
Master Mel's mansion, and Black Rose Street."
* Bulix laughs. "Yeah.. but every time I've been here, I've stayed
away from that street.
Ebony: "Bet you no place sells anything for me..."
* Bulix nods. "Probably, Ebony.."
Iceberg: "It was even respected by Magic Emperor's Grindery. That
didn't destroy it... The Great Hero Ramus lives there, and hot
babes in his shop!"
Ebony: "Hot babes? He doesn't have air conditioning?"
* Bulix shakes his head. "Nope.. No air conditioning in Meribia."
Iceberg: "The breeze is just what Meribia has against hot..."
* Bulix takes a moment to wonder just what air conditioning is.
Ebony: "Hey, its my job as the official flying cat to make comments
about present day Earth."
* Bulix rolls his eyes. "Okay, okay.. I'll keep that in mind,
Puffy-puff."
Ebony: "People who dress like Santa Claus shouldn't make fun."
Iceberg: "True, Ebano, by the way, who in Lunar is Fabio?!?!?"
* Ebony tosses his head and flexes his muscles. "Why... me of,
course."
* Iceberg thinks that if the Larpa girl liked someone like Ebony, she
has a bad taste in men...
* Bulix was unaware that Santa Claus wore armor made of a Buffalo's
hide. Ah well.
Ebony: "Sure. Santa needs protection."
~~~The smell of sea water becomes detectable as the group winds its way
around the bay south of Meribia...~~~
* Ebony climbs into Lou's backpack and rests.
* ~Lou instinctively leads on.
* Ebony snoozes a tad on a blanket in Lou's bacpack.
~~~The group passes by the mountains north of Meribia, and eventually
sees Meribia over the horizon and the road leading up to it.~~~
Iceberg: "Look! The Grindery is still here!"
* Bulix immediately loses his sunny disposition. "Great. The Grindery."
Ebony: "That thing that made those tracks we saw in the frontier?"
~~~The awesome remains of the Grindery seem to be already covered in
vines and plantlife since the decade when it was disabled. The vines
and plants covering the grindery seem to show how life can overcome
whatever electric power and technology those who seek destruction
use.~~~
* Ebony snaps a photo.
* Iceberg looks in awe the metal and hopes the pixies would be still
in 'The Secret Garden'.
* Bulix isn't going in _there_.
Ebony: "How would you know, Ice? It's 'secret' for a reason."
Iceberg: "I know, because I studied 'Ghaleon's Memories' by Meire the
Pixie... Favorite pixie from Ghaleon.." (Iceberg remarks he said
'Meire' not 'L...' Ack..)
Ebony: "Pixies write novels?"
Iceberg: "Yes, they even put in order ABBA discs!"
Ebony: "Oh, is that what Ghaleon did to those who wouldn't submit to
his evil rule? Sing them to death?"
Iceberg: "Pixies served him as friends. He liked pixies, and pixies
liked Ghaleon. I don't know why... It's not that clear...
Mystery..."
Ebony: "Maybe he didn't have friends when he was a kid."
Iceberg: "At least Dyne was..."
* Ebony pulls out a map. "Darn! We're supposed to be going to
Meribia..."
~~~The group eventually passes the Grindery and approaches scenic
Meribia... Before the group even approaches Meribia, the loud
noises and sounds of a busy port city can be heard.~~~
Iceberg: "Meribia! Good Heavens! Not compared to Vane, but still
a great city!"
* Bulix snorts. "I'd take Meribia over Vane any day."
Ebony: "What's wrong with Vane? It has a nice view."
Iceberg: "I wonder if Ramus will make us special prices as he did with
Alex..."
* Ebony writes in his journal, "Day something... I can't write... Oh
well, end log..."
~~~Meribia seems to be its usual busy self from afar and you wonder
if anyone even noticed Vane's occupation with their busy
lives.~~~
Ebony: "You know, I wonder if anyone even noticed Vane's occupation
with their busy lives."
* Bulix hehs.
* Iceberg is happy, because the ship is called 'La Hispaniola'.
* Ebony takes this moment to note that no one on Lunar speaks Spanish.
Iceberg: "Bueno, yo estoy en Lunar y hablo Español!"
Ebony: "Oh, cut it out, Points! You're not impressing anyone... and
you're confusing poor Bulix!"
* Bulix glances at Iceberg. "You been drinking?"
Iceberg: "No, Bulix, sorry, I don't drink alcohol... It's critical
for magic... Magic has a 'Critical Weakness' against alcohol! Even
children know that!"
Ebony: "Hey, Lou... Why are you so quiet?"
* Ebony digs through his Magic: The Gathering deck, finds card
'Dragonmaster Wannabe', taps 2 forests, and summons Lou.
~~~The gates to the wonderful port city of Meribia eventually meet
you.~~~
Ebony: "Wow, this is the biggest town I've ever seen!"
~~~The group enters Meribia and is greeted with a wave of crowded
people going to and fro in this busy city.~~~
* Iceberg enters the city, looking for the port and Black Rose
Street...
Ebony: "So now what..? Wanna stop by a shop first?"
Bulix: "Sure."
Iceberg: "Okay, I guess Ramus' is near!"
Ebony: "Well then, let's see this great place!"
~~~The two predominant shops are near the front gate, across the
street from each other in almost a confrontational manner.~~~
Iceberg: "I didn't know there was two shops... Let's find the one from
Ramus..."
Ebony: "Lead on, Points."
~~~The north shop is advertised as 'Ramus' Store of Wonders'. The south
shop is labeled 'Markin's Family Shoppe'. But this is far from the
wonders that the city can offer.~~~
Iceberg: "I guess the one in the right entering Vane was the correct
one.."
Ebony: "Then go! Too much talk!"
* Iceberg goes in the north shop and looks at Ramus. "Hi, blue-haired.
We come from Vane"
* Bulix watches Iceberg walk into Ramus's shop, and sighs.
~~~The shop is packed with eager customers and scantily clad
assistants.~~~
Iceberg: "Woohoo!"
* Ebony climbs out of Lou's backpack and takes position on Lou's
shoulder. "So where's this Ramus guy?"
Iceberg: "We are friends of Mia Ausa and Nash. We're looking for
Alex.."
Kara: "Well, I don't know any Mia or Nash. Alex? I think he's a friend
of the boss."
Iceberg: "Where's your boss? I wanna talk with 'im."
Kara: "Ramus is in back. Why?"
* Ebony talks slow so she can understand. "Because we want to find
Alex and he knows him."
Kara: "Alex? Um... Okay. I'll go get him."
Iceberg: "And maybe he would want to know about his friends in
Vane..."
~~~Kara disappears behind some purple curtains.~~~
* Iceberg waits for Ramus, losing his concentration looking to the
babes with little clothes fluttering around the shop...
Girlie: "Giggle..."
* Ebony isn't interested in scantily clad women, looks around to see
what they sell here.
~~~There seems to be charming trinkets of jewelry and other fine
crafts. The shop seems to sell a variety of all sorts of stuff.
Whether any of it is of any use in anyone's guess.~~~
* Ebony looks at stuff while waiting.
* Iceberg looks for SilverLights, Althena Herbs, Dover Nuts, Althena's
robes and stuff...
Ebony: "Yeah right. As if."
* Bulix looks for a holy diamond blazing firey claw weapon.
~~~Kara returns with Ramus.~~~
* Ebony notes that the great Ramus is a tad on the porky side.
Ramus: "Ah! What a suspicous bunch you are! You're probably those dumb
kids of the Markin family! No, I will not divulge my prices! To
paying customers only!"
* Bulix glares at Ramus. "We aren't.."
Ebony: "Hey, we're just looking for Alex!"
Iceberg: "No, Great Ramus, we're travellers from Vane that are looking
for Dragonmaster Alex, your friend Alex!"
Ramus: "So you can use him to divulge my sales secrets no doubt!"
Iceberg: "Didn't you know that Vane crashed and we saved everyone..?"
Ebony: "Ahem... Take a second and look at me... Do *I* look like a
dumb kid of the Markin family'?"
Ramus: "Well, their dumb pet anyway!"
Ebony: "Dumb pet?"
* Iceberg stands between Ramus and Ebony, trying to calm the flying
cat... "You know, Ramus, flying cats are very sensitive..."
Ramus: "I will not talk to you any more unless you purchase something."
Ebony: "Then let's look at your jun... stuff. And you'd better not call
me a pet again!"
Iceberg: "What could you offer us?"
Ramus: "Well, I do have some wares here, but my crowning achievement
is my lapidary craft. I can work wonders on any kind of precious
metal object. But here are my regular items:"
Safety Pendant 250S
Luck Ring 250S
Flex Belt 250S
Shell Bracelet 500S
Mirror Shield 500S
Iceberg: "What could anyone use?"
* Ebony smacks Bulix, points to the Saftey Pendant. "Hey look! That is
one of those things that makes magic hurt you less! I figure you
could use that."
Ramus: "Ah... if you're interested in the Safety Pendant, might I
suggest the nicely crafted Shell Bracelet? The rubies on it are more
pure, and the general workmanship is better. Plus, it has more
practical use than the simple Safety Pendant."
Ebony: "It's also more expensive!"
Iceberg: "Ramus, what things could a wizard use? A Dark Ice Wizard..."
Ramus: "Well, I think anyone could wear anything here, 'cept the
wonderful Mirror Shield. It's a bit tall and heavy."
Iceberg: "My choice is clear, one Shell Bracelet..."
Ebony: "What did you say you could do with precious metals?"
Ramus: "Ah, yes. I learned my technique from an old adversary named
Dross."
Ebony: "Yeah... We've met. He did my collar... See? Do you think you
can anything with my Opal stuff?"
Iceberg: "I vote for the Opal work..."
Ramus: "We've been obsessed with rare 'dragon metals', like Onyx and
Diamond. Dross thinks he's cool because he can turn Onyx to Opal, but
*I* am cooler because I can turn Opal into Diamond. However, we have
a bad relationship because while Diamond is harder, I can't make it
from pure Onyx, so he has to convert it to Opal first..."
Iceberg: "Opal into diamond..? Never heard about that! You're really
great, Ramus!"
Ebony: "Neato! I've got Opal stuff! How much, pal?"
Ramus: "Opal?! You've been dealing with that Dross crook?!"
Iceberg: "No, we cheated him... He was so gullible."
Ebony: "Does it matter? We've got silver!"
Ramus: "Hmm... Silver, my principles, silver, my principles,
silver..."
Iceberg: "Silver, a cat with your eyes in the paws, silver... er...
And your spleen..."
Ebony: "Hey... I'm a dragon, remember?"
Iceberg: "But let's keep that info as 'top-secret'..."
Ebony: "Oh sure, and let's go around calling you a monkey!"
Iceberg: "Well, I surrender. I'm an elf, and you're a dragon..."
Ebony: "Well, Ramus... If you do it, I'll be sure to tell everyone
who asks where I got them... Think of the publicity!"
Ramus: "Hmm..."
Iceberg: "Yeah, tell the SpitterBat, "It was Ramus who made my weapon!"
Ramus: "Well, all right. As long as I get a cute black kitty for
advertising. Conversion goes at 1000 silver per item."
* Ebony blinks. "That's robbery!"
* Bulix looks at Ramus in disbelief. "1000 silver? What kind of crook
are you, anyway? Dross dealt with us more fairly than this!"
Iceberg: "How many it would be?!?!?"
Ebony: "I have 3 items."
Iceberg: "3000 Silver! Well as Ebony doesn't have much chances to
improve his weapons..."
Ebony: "How about 500... and I let you put 'made by Ramus' on them?"
Ramus: "They already have 'made by Ramus' on them!"
* Bulix shakes his head, muttering, "I don't believe it.."
Iceberg: "750 and it's our last offer!"
Ebony: "You would take advantage of a poor little kitty? I mean, we're
going to save the world and Alex and.... everyone and stuff!"
Iceberg: "Ha! He's a kitty when he needs to!"
Ramus: "Of course I would take advantage of a kitty! Wait... save Alex?"
Ebony: "Yeah, you see, my pop, the old black dragon, told me he's in
trouble, so we're going to try and find hin... and save him. It's
kinda one of those 'fate of the world on your shoulders' bit."
Iceberg: "Oh, no! The nut man is going to come with us!"
Ramus: "Don't try to play with me! There's no way he can be in trouble.
My buddy's a Dragonmaster!"
Bulix: "So? Didn't Ghaleon capture the Goddess? Anything can happen."
Ebony: "Haven't you been paying attention? Vane was taken over by the
Vile Tribe! If not for us and our friends it still would be! Something
bad is going on around here!"
Ramus: "Well, I couldn't bear it if anything happened to my friend Alex,
but I still think you're just making up a story! 1000 silver per
item!"
* Bulix cracks his knuckles, and mumbles to himself. "We _could_ just
pay him, then rob him afterwards.. sometimes being good sucks."
Iceberg: "I agree secretly with Bulix. I can't understand this
piggy-diggy man!"
Ebony: "Hey listen... Don't I look like um... whats his name, Nall?
And wasn't Nall important?"
Ramus: "Nall, I know Nall very well. I grew up playing with him, and
Alex, and Luna. You look nothing like Nall! You're black instead of
white!"
* Iceberg uses some flour over Ebano.. "See? White as snow!"
Ebony: "Because I'm a black dragon! How many other flying, talking
cats have you seen?"
Ramus: "Actually, two."
Ebony: "What...? Tell me!"
Iceberg: "Two? Nall and... who else?"
Bulix: "Azura?"
Ebony: "Azura was with the blue haired girl. It couldn't be her."
Bulix: "A.. red one then? Or was it Blue?"
Ramus: "There was Nall, and then a really obnoxious black one that came
in today. I'm losing business! Either buy something or get to the
back of the line."
Iceberg: "Another black one?"
* Bulix huhs, and points at Ebony. "Him?"
Ebony: "A...another black... or are you talking about me?"
Ramus: "Of course I'm talking about you! Are you going to buy anything
AT ALL?"
Bulix: "Say.. Ramus. If we buy one of those shell braclets, can we get
a discount on the diamond bit?"
Lou: "Hey, Ramus, come on! Give us a deal for a fellow Caldorian!"
Ramus: "My prices are already too low to deal with Markin's discount
store. Any less and I would lose money."
Bulix: "Oh, come on. How expensive is it to do the conversion? Dross
did it dirt-cheap. Are you telling me that you're not as good as
_Dross_?"
* Ebony wonders when Bulix got so sly.
Iceberg: "No, you're just way too expensive than Dross..."
* Ebony looks at his friends. "I can't just take most of our money...
You decide."
Iceberg: "Ebano, I repeat what I said. Do it! It's your chance! We can
kill any other monster and take his treasure out."
Ebony: "Thank you, Ice."
* Iceberg hopes he returns the money when we will come with Alex.
* Bulix nods to Ebony. "Sure, do it. Of course, we'll be sure to spread
the word about how Ramus cheated us.."
* Ebony slips off his collar, talons, and fangs and drops them on
the counter, grumbling.
Ramus: "Are you certain? All three items? That kid with you doesn't
mind?"
Ebony: "Hey, Lou, do YOU mind if we spend 3000 silver getting my
items betterized? There's nothing else here except a shield you might
like for 500."
Iceberg: "He could use everything, Ebano..."
Lou: "Spend a bunch if you want, but I may want the shield."
Ramus: "You sure? 3000 Silver? I'd feel bad unless you all agreed on
this..."
* Iceberg agrees... "Take it... Lladre!"
Bulix: "Sure, get it... and Ebony, upgrade your stuff."
* Ebony mutters, "The crook..."
Bulix: "So, Ramus.. Spend a lot of time in Reza?"
Ramus: "If you want to complain about merchants, go visit those creeps
at Markins' family store! Their family line has been holding the
market of this city for generations!
Ebony: "Fine, take our money!"
Bulix: "Okay.. Ramus.. You know.. my voice carries well. You could have
it praising your wonderful store, or telling horror stories about it.
Think, man!"
Lou: "Guys, mind if I get that mirror shield then?"
Iceberg: "Get it."
Ebony: "Sure, then we will be down to 1000 silver..."
Lou: "Ramus, one mirror shield, please."
* Ramus hands Lou a Mirror Shield. "Here you go! Enjoy!"
* Lou checks out his new shield.
Ramus: "I can take that old Carapace Shield of yours for 30 silver."
Lou: "Go ahead, Ramus."
~~~Carapace Shield sold.~~~
Lou: "Thanks, Ramus! By the way, I'm heading off to Caldor and
eventually Burg. can I say 'hi' to anyone there for you?
Ebony: "He doesn't believe we are going to save Alex."
Lou: "What does he think we're going to do? Go on a camping trip?"
Ramus: "So you really are heading to Caldor? Just say 'hi' to Alex and
Luna. And maybe Nall if you feel like it."
Lou: "Sure. We will, Ramus."
Ramus: "All right then... I'll be back. Kara, entertain these gentlemen
while I'm working."
Iceberg: "Yes, Kara, introduce us to any girlie..."
~~~Ramus goes into the back room with Ebony's stuff. Kara gets up on
the counter and does a cute little dance.~~~
* Ebony says too quietly for Ramus to hear, "We're not gonna have a lot
of cash left to try the other store."
Lou: "Ebony, I'm friends with the storekeepers in Saith. Maybe they'll
cut us a deal."
* Bulix sighs. "If I get the same hospitality in Saith, I swear I'll
burn it to the ground."
Lou: "I'll be sure you guys get the same hospitality in Saith you gave
us in your home town of Vane. Well, once we saved it anyway. Okay,
better hospitality then Bulix. I think you know what I mean, and of
course, all the fish you can eat, Ebony!"
* Bulix nods, then grins. "As long as I don't meet any arrogant
wizzards.."
Bulix: "Well, present company excepted, Ice."
Iceberg: "Arrogant me? Nooo... I'm humble!"
Lou: "Nash on the other hand... Hehehe, he wouldn't even look at me
when he was in Saith... Alex was much more friendly! Of course,
maybe that's because I didn't know magic yet at the time, but Bulix,
there haven't been any there since Nash and Ghaleon visited."
Ebony: "I just wanna finish this trip quick..."
* Ebony mutters, "And get back to Miko..."
Lou: "Don't worry, Ebony. Hopefully, it won't take too long."
Iceberg: "Saith, sigh, Nash met Alex there..."
Lou: "I met Alex and Nash there, too, myself, way back when I was just
a little kid... The memories.."
* Lou whistles... Hoping his home is okay...
* Ebony drums his claws on the counter.
Lou: "By the way, Bulix and Ice, thanks for coming with us on this
trip."
Ebony: "Yes, that, you guys.. You're real friends."
* Bulix shrugs. "No problem, Lou."
Iceberg: "No problem, Lou. You needed some heal magic here!"
Ebony: "What say after this we check the store across the street?"
Lou: "Sure, Ebony. by the way, did you guys book tickets on the boat
yet?
~~~Ramus returns with his goggles on.~~~
Ramus: "Finished! 3000 silver please."
Lou: "Ebony, you got the cash, right?"
Ebony: "Me?"
* Bulix hands Ramus 3 silver, and hopes that he can't count.
* Ebony checks his pockets, which doesn't take long because he doesn't
have any.
'Diamond Talons' acquired.
'Diamond Collar' acquired.
'Diamond Fangs' acquired.
* Ebony slips his stuff on.
~~~The items glitter with a clear black brilliance. The cleavages
inside the stone refract the light in all directions.~~~
Lou: "Looking sharp there, kitty kat, or dragon, or whatever you wanna
be called, Ebony!"
Ebony: "Wow, thanks! I look spiffy!"
Lou: "Okay, shall we hit the next store now?"
Iceberg: "Okay, but first let's ask how much is the ticket to go to
Saith..."
Lou: "So guys, you did book tickets, huh?"
Ebony: "No..."
Bulix: "Err.. no. This store was kinda near the entrance..."
Lou: "Gotcha... Well, I think the boat doesn't need tix, but I wanted to
check just in case..."
* Bulix throws a glare at Ramus. "Ten to one we don't have enough cash
now."
Ebony: "Maybe we can ask Mel..."
Lou: "Did you guys see him yet?"
Bulix: "No. Like we said, this is the first place we went."
Lou: "Oh, okay."
Ebony: "Let's look at the boat and see what's up."
Iceberg: "Come on to the dock."
Lou: "Wait, Ice. I think we want to see the other shops. Shall we hit
the road guys?""
Ebony: "Later Ramus. Thanks. You do nice work, even if exspensive."
Ramus: "Yes, anytime! But you did get quality work. Never doubt that!"
Lou: "Well, he is one of Caldor's best businessmen."
Bulix: "Even though he's a cheat, and.."
* Bulix raises his voice. "Far inferior to Dross!"
Ramus: "What the...? Get out of my shop, you big puke!"
* Ebony re-alights on Lou's shoulder.
Lou: "Guys, let's get outta here. I hear Ramus has nasty security."
* Bulix chuckles. "I'd like to see this 'security', but fine, let's
go."
Lou: "See ya, Ramus!"
Ebony: "So, what? The docks, check the ships?"
Lou: "Sure, why not the docks?"
Ebony: "But we shouldn't leave without looking in the other store...
and getting Mel's autograph."
Lou: "Hehehehehe, and maybe some advice, too!"
Iceberg: "First the docks, and then the other shop."
Lou: "Sounds like a plan to me."
Ebony: "So where are the docks...? Wait... I bet they are... by the
water!"
Bulix: "That's you, Mister Obvious."
* Ebony hums a song to kimself which seems to be composed of the
words, "I got some diamond stu-uff"
* Bulix hums a song to kimself which seems to be composed of the
words, "We got ripped oo-off"
* Lou just worries a bit about Saith... and someone there...
Salty Sailor: "Aar! What do yee kiddies want?"
* Bulix looks at the sodium-overdosed sea-man, and wonders what this
'kiddies' bit is all about.
Ebony: "We wanna go to Caldor island."
Lou: "We'd like a boat to Saith, please."
Ebony: "What he said... Aye matey and all that lingo. Avast me
harties!"
Salty Sailor: "Aye, all these boats can't be leavin without a writ
from Mel himself. He's still watching the possibility of sea storms."
Lou: "You heard the man. Let's hit the shop and then Mel's place. Got
that, guys?"
Ebony: "And let's say we get a writ... What about cash? We have to know
if we should save money first."
Lou: "Oh yeah, silly me."
Iceberg: "Salty, how much are the passages?"
Salty Sailor: "I do not know what Mel has decided for yee."
Lou: "So what Mel says goes then, right?"
Iceberg: "I guess we're going to wash the plates in Mel's to pay the
travel..."
Ebony: "Okay, so Mel's mansion, the store, then back here. Let's go,
guys... Onward... to victory!"
Bulix: "Yuppers, Eb."
Lou: "You got it, Eb. Let's go, team!"
Salty: "I know better than to mess with master Mel!"
Lou: "Hehe, don't we all? See ya, Sailor!"
~~~Mel's mansion isn't too hard to spot in this city. It's a tall,
regal structure, and no one seems to mind that he gets to live
there.~~~
Lou: "It's only about half the city.. Let's head on in... The door's
open... or it looks open anyway."
Ebony: "The doors are always open! Every door on the planet is open!
Except for a couple of buildings in Burg and some docks here in
Meribia..."
Iceberg: "We'll meet Jessica!!"
~~~A strange furry butler meets you.~~~
Butler: "Are you heah to see Mastuh Mel?"
Ebony: "We suh nuff ah!"
* Ebony gets his kicks mocking others.
Iceberg: "Tell your mastah, that hier hi hath sam hiros from Vein."
* Bulix grabs a burlap bag, and slips it over Ebony.
Ebony: "Mph huph frumph!"
Iceberg: "Wan taim aim usin' his language..."
* Bulix then shoves the bag over Ice's head. "Shaddup!"
Ebony: "Hi Points, fancy meeting you here!"
Iceberg: "Take your paw out from my mouth, Ebano..."
* Ebony slices his way out of the sack, returns to Lou's shoulder,
sticks his tounge out at Bulix.
* Bulix walks around, whistling _very_ innocently.
* Lou is too outta it right now to notice what's going on.
* Bulix nods to the butler. "Yes, we are."
Lou: "Yes, please, if you don't mind. It's urgent. We need to get to
Caldor Isle."
Butler: "Right this way, gentlemen..."
Lou: "Thank you, mister."
~~~The bulter leads the group through the fancy halls of Mel's estate.
Lanterns and paintings adorn the walls.~~~
Lou: "Wow, this place is so cool!"
~~~The group eventually arrives at a well-decorated office. A tall
majestic figure looks out the window towards the sea...~~~
Ebony: "Wow, that tall majestic figure must be
Master Mel!"
Iceberg: "Cut me my ears if he's not Master Mel!"
* Ebony scratches off on his 'legendary heroes met' card. "Let's see...
Mia, Nash, Ramus, Mel..."
* Lou turns to the group. "Looks like he's kinda lost in thought...
Excuse me, Master Mel?"
~~~The huge figure turns around, his red cape flapping.~~~
Mel: "Yes? And you might you young upstarts be?"
Lou: "Umm, just some adventurers trying to get to Saith, and we heard
you can help us get there, sir."
Bulix: "We came from Vane.. Nash, Mia, and Lemia sent us.. we need to
go to Caldor to look for Alex."
* Ebony thinks Mel's ears are bigger than Ice's.
Mel: "Ah... I bet you kiddies are here to get a ship!"
* Lou tries to be extra polite to Mel. "You guessed right, sir."
Mel: "Alright, explain in detail what you need. I'm only sending out
ships for necessity reasons."
Iceberg: "We fear that maybe Dragonmaster Alex is in great danger...
sir.."
Bulix: "Mel.. sir.. Basically, there's something seriously wrong in
this world. The vile tribe had taken over Vane and whatnot, and we
feel that Alex may be in danger, and failing that, maybe he can help
set things right."
Lou: "We need a ride to Saith. Ebony here has led us to believe that
Alex is in trouble, and as you haven't heard much from him, we're on
a mission to try to see what's wrong with him."
Ebony: "We have it on a good source that Dragonmaster Alex is in
trouble. We were instructed that we much find him."
* Lou whispers to Ebony "Your dad is a good source, right? He did go
cuckoo a while back... He's all okay now, though, right?"
* Ebony whispers back, "Don't ask me. He sounded right to me..."
* Lou whispers back, "Thanks anyway. Your word is enough for me."
Mel: "Hah! What an altruistic bunch you all are! Why, I haven't seen
such youthful enthusiasm in quite a long time!"
Lou: "Thanks, sir. Does that mean you'll give us a writ?"
Mel: "Ok, so if you're looking for Alex, perhaps you could take over
for the sailors that got seasick in those storms. They're all a bunch
of pansies who won't sail again! It would mean a free ship ride at
least!"
Ebony: "Free? Works for me!"
Lou: "Free? I like the idea!"
Iceberg: "Free! He said free!!"
Bulix: "You want us to work on the ship for our passage? Sure, no
problem here."
Lou: "Sounds like a deal, sir."
* Ebony figures he won't have to do any work because... Hey, he's a
cat.
Bulix: "We could stick Ebony here in the Crow's nest.. Hmm.."
Ebony: "Just because I'm black and fly doesn't mean I'm a crow!"
Lou: "Naaa, I think he likes my shoulder more. At least, I think that's
why he's there now..."
Ebony: "Well Lou, your shoulder isn't bad, but I prefer another...
No offense."
Lou: "None taken, Ebony."
Iceberg: "I'll try to use my heal skills to take care of the Sailors...
No matter who... Some people get sick in Vane 'cause the highness...
I guess it would be similar..."
Lou: "If not, don't you know anti-nausea magic, Ice? Either that, or we
need to stock up on dramamine herbs."
Iceberg: "Not magic, but treatment against seasickness... Naviria
taught me!"
Lou: "Works for me! C'mon guys, we got a dragonmaster to save!"
Mel: "So, you guys up for it?"
Lou: "Mel, we're up for it sir!"
Mel: "All I need is some response from Dragonmaster Alex returned here
and you fellas get free transportation."
Ebony: "Sure pal, we'll let you know when we find him. We need a writ,
and we'll get out of your hair."
Mel: "All right! I'll write up a note for the sailors at the dock
right away."
Lou: "Thank you very much, sir!"
* Bulix wears a plainly confused look on his face. "Whooa.. hold on,
Mel. You need a response from Alex _before_ we go?"
Ebony: "No Bulix, he means when we find Alex, he gets to know about it."
Bulix: "Oooooh.. I see, Eb."
* Ebony thinks if we ever find Alex, Lou is going to have a corinary...
Lou: "What makes you think that, Ebony? Hehehehe..."
Ebony: "I'm gonna take that ring back if you keep doing that!"
Lou: "The mind reading thing? Oooohhhh, I see... I guess I'll drop it
at that, then."
* Lou is actually fairly comfortable around Alex. He grew up near him,
remember?
~~~Mel sits down in his desk and gets out a dangerously long pen.~~~
Bulter: "Could I interest the gentlemen in any complimentary
refreshments?"
Lou: "Umm, sure, why not? Water, please."
Iceberg: "Red wine with marjoram, please..."
* Ebony refuses.
~~~The Bulter returns with some cold water and extremely bland
looking cookies.~~~
* Bulix thanks the butler and takes a glass of cold water, downing it.
* Iceberg will take anything... Cold water is fine.
* Bulix gives into temptation and takes a cookie, munching on it
contentedly.
Ebony: "Wasn't he a pirate?"
~~~Mel looks up at Ebony with a curled brow at Ebony's statement.~~~
Lou: "Umm, he WAS. 'Was' is the term. Besides, I don't think you'd
wanna cross anyone that can swing that big of an axe.
* Lou points to the huge axe in the corner.
* Ebony blinks. "Wow..."
Lou: "You can say that again, Ebony."
Ebony: "Wow..."
* Iceberg asks Mel about the Tombo... er, Jessica.
Mel: "Oh, Jess? The sweetie's at the Shrine right now. I heard from
her just last week."
* Iceberg thinks "Yes, in the shrine... hmmm... in Nanza with Kyle, I'm
sure!"
Lou: "How's she doing, sir?"
Mel: "Well, she's faithfully executing the duties of
ArchBishop well enough... but..."
Lou: "Yes sir?"
Mel: "She keeps finding excuses to take "vacations" into her secret
retreat with 'Master Kyle'. I pour my heart out to that girl! I gave
her the best upbringing a girl could ask for and she runs away with
some rogueish bandit!"
Iceberg: "But, sir, you chose Kyle as guardian of Nanza..."
Lou: "Mel, didn't you yourself put him in charge of the Nanza Barrier?"
Mel: "I approve of Kyle, mind you. He's a great leader and guarded the
Barrier well in his time, but he's just not right for my delicate
flower!"
Ebony: "Delicate flower..."
Iceberg: "Flower... yes..."
Lou: "Ahh, I understand, sir."
* Bulix shrugs. "You can't stop love, sir. Heck, maybe he's the strong,
rich soil that a flower could florish in..."
Lou: "Interesting way of putting it, Bulix."
Ebony: "Great... First Bulix is sly... Now he's profound..."
Mel: "Actually, I think Kyle would make a good husband, but my Jessica
is just so much more fragile and precious than most girls. She needs
someone equally delicate."
Lou: "Like a lawyer? Just kidding, sir."
Iceberg: "Delicate... geez... Does he look for a man or another
flower?"
Bulix: Well, maybe Mel.. but most 'delicate' guys are.. well... 'odd.'
If you know what I mean.."
* Ebony is beginning to look bored.
* Lou wonders how long it takes to write a simple writ up...
Ebony: "What's going on? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
Lou: "Well guys, we all set here?"
Ebony: "Once Mr. Mel gives us his letter thingy!"
Mel: "Ah... whatever. I'm done with your writ. You can get a free ride
to Caldor with this slip of paper. Take it to the docks once you're
done sightseeing. I hear there's some sort of crazy days sale going on
in Black Rose Street and in Markin's family store."
Lou: "Thank you very much, sir. Crazy days sale? Guys, I smell a
bargain. Let's go!"
Ebony: "Oh... Black Rose street. Let's check there, but let's stop at
the Markin store on the way."
Lou: "Yeah, I hear it's a really cool place!"
* Iceberg would want to go to the Street... "Maybe they could awake
Bulix's magic there!"
Lou: "Ice, hey, maybe you got something there."
Bulix: "What? I have magic? I doubt it..."
Ebony: "Bulix's magic is awake... It's just drowsy."
Lou: "Maybe they can give it some caffeine then."
Iceberg: "Lou, I need caffeine quick!"
Ebony: "Well, let's stop talking about it and do it!"
Lou: "I agree with Ebony. Goodbye Master Mel, and thanks for all the
help! Okay, guys, on the road again."
Ebony: "Bye, Master Mel!"
Iceberg: "¡Adios, Master Mel!"
* Bulix nods to Mel. "We'll come back with word from Alex."
~~~Mel wishes you farewell and good luck.~~~
* Bulix heads out.. only to discover that he has no clue which way out
is.
Lou: "Well, we have 1000 or so silver to play with. Hopefully I can
upgrade this rusty razor blade I'm fighting with now."
Iceberg: "Markin's first and then Black Rose Street."
~~~Moving through Meribia is quite slow what with the crowds of people
going from place to place.~~~
Lou: "I wonder why everyone is here..."
~~~Eventually you arrive at Markin's store. This store seems to be a
collection of strange elixirs and tonics from around the world, or
at least from some place far away.~~~
Lou: "Hmm, okay, anyone see any neat stuff?"
* Iceberg enters Markin's and asks the boss about the items...
~~~A middle aged man sitting at the counter evaluating inventory
reports doesn't notice you.~~~
* Iceberg shouts, "Are you deaf?"
Mr. Markin: "Yeah? Oh, you would like to see our items?"
Lou: "Sure."
Bulix: "Yep.."
Ebony: "That would be the general idea."
Iceberg: "Yes, please, or we will go to Ramus'."
Markin: "Ah! Not Ramus! That stupid merchant is almost as treacherous as
that stupid kid of mine."
Lou: "Umm, can we leave the personal stuff out of this and just get down
to business?"
Iceberg: "So, we want cheap prices. You know, bussiness is bussiness..."
Markin: "I'd be glad to sell you my things as long as you have no
business with that evil Ramus!"
* Bulix nods. "Ramus is a cheating little freak."
Iceberg: "Ebano, keep those diamonds far from his view..."
* Lou crosses his fingers. "Don't worry, we won't. Looks to me you don't
even carry the same stuff anyway."
Ebony: "So, whatcha got?"
Markin: "Oh, blazes. Most of this stuff isn't even unpacked yet. You
see, we just got back from the last shipment and my stupid idiot son
isn't here to help."
Lou: "Sorry to hear that."
~~~Markin bends over and starts taking things out of crates and
stocking shelves.~~~
* Lou whistles.
* Ebony drums his claws on Lou's armor. "So is that an 'I can't help
you'?"
Markin: "No! It will be just a minute. I'll get this ready for you..."
* Lou stops whistling when he gets an odd feeling in the pit of his
stomach... "Thanks..."
~~~Mr. Markin starts talking to himself.~~~
Marken: "Grumble grumble. No, dad! I don't want to be just go back and
forth to Lann and be a merchant like you. I'm so much *better* than you,
dad. Grumble grumble.... Okay, here's my current selection."
Herb 50S
Eye Salve 25S
Vocal Salve 25S
Purity Herb 25S
Sanity Dust 25S
Spring Water 25S
Golden Sand 100S
Angel Tears 250S.
Lou: "What the..?"
Ebony: "What's golden sand do?"
Lou: "Hmm, should we buy any of these things?"
Ebony: "Well... I think we should look for more... weapony things
first... unless someone wants something... and we really should buy
that Shell thing for Bulix..."
Lou: "I agree, Ebony. He needs it desperately! Shall we head for Black
Rose Street.?"
* Bulix shakes his head. "Nah, that's okay, Ebony.. Shells aren't my
thing."
Ebony: "Bulix... magic endurance isn't your thing, either. Listen,
after we look at Black Rose street, we'll see."
Iceberg: "Nothing to do, Black Rose Street awaits us!
* Lou turns to the shopkeep. "Thanks, sir. We don't need any of your
stuff yet, but we'll stop back when we do, okay? Later!"
Ebony: "And our cash is low..."
Mr. Markin: "But my herbs are fresh! Just smell the aroma!"
Lou: "I'm sure they are sir, just that we have quite a few already.
Don't worry, you'll be the first place we go when we need more
herbs!"
Ebony: "Wanna sniff it?"
* Iceberg thinks its aroma is sickening...
Mr. Markin: "And before you leave, just promise to come back to me for
all your herbal needs! And if you see some idiot named Davis Markin
walking around anywhere acting useless, be sure to slap him upside the
head for me!"
Lou: "No problem, Mr. Markin!"
* Ebony flies out the store and looks around.
* Lou follows Ebony and points to the west. "I think Black Rose
Street is that way."
Iceberg: "Go West!"
Lou: "Go West, young man!
Iceberg: "I'm not a man. I'm an elf."
Lou: "Wait a sec... I am a young man!"
Ebony: "It's down near the docks to the west."
* Ebony points at a sign that says, "Black Rose street, down near the
docks and to the west".
Lou: "That could explain it."
~~~Black Rose Street lies down the path.~~~
* Ebony flutters off ahead
* Lou follows Ebony
* Iceberg walks firmly to the Street...
~~~The group walks toward Black Rose Street...~~~
Lou: "Whoa, this place is pretty cool, too! Almost as many wizards as
in Vane."
* Iceberg looks at the street with kinda love as it's the first place
he ever remembers... "No more simpletons' roads..."
* Bulix snarls a Iceberg. "Simpleton this, and simpleton that.. Geez."
Lou: "Bulix, don't take it personally. Look at me. I can use magic and I
still worked on my swordsmanship instead. It's not the only thing in
the world."
Ebony: "Yeah, and I work of my... um... clawsmanship..."
* Bulix nods. "Exactly. These blasted wizards all seem to think that,
though."
Lou: "Ahh, well, that's their loss."
* Iceberg remembers the house Rizmol used to have here...
~~~Black Rose Street definitely caters to a different crowd. Mysterious
robed figures walk up and down the sidewalks.~~~
* Iceberg feels like a fish in the water. "Welcome the Black Rose Street,
where Meribia is confused in Vane..."
Ebony: "Look, everyone dresses like Points! It's a convention of the
style impared!"
* Bulix laughs.
* Iceberg is pleased that many mages look at him, feeling his power!
Ebony: "So where's the black rose at? Or is it just a catchy name?"
Bulix: "Look down, Ebony.. Road's black, ya know."
Ebony: "So where does the rose part come in?"
Lou: "I guess it's just a magician's thing. Perhaps they just like
roses?"
* Bulix shrugs. "Maybe if you walk on it barefoot, you get thorns in
your feet.. or paws."
Iceberg: "The Black Rose is kept in Vane as a gift from Althena to
magic."
~~~Most of the bulidings here are shut tight and do not look very
welcoming. One shop appears to be open, though.~~~
Lou: "I think this is it, Ebony. Everything is closed except that one
shop though. Wanna check it out guys?"
* Ebony heads towards the shop.
* Lou follows Ebony.
* Iceberg 3Dlemmings...
* Lou still has that weird feeling in the pit of his stomach...
* Ebony flutters into the shop.
~~~A red robed figure stands behind the counter with its face down.~~~
Ebony: "Hello?"
Lou: "Hi there, shopkeep, what do you have?"
Iceberg: "Pardon, sir, could you help us?"
Bulix: "I don't think so..."
~~~The figure looks up to reveal an old hag's face.~~~
Hag: "Waahhh! Fresh kitty for my stew!"
* Bulix steps protectively between Ebony and the hag. "No chance. None.
Nada,"
Lou: "I don't think so. Lou don't play that... Ebony, get behind me!"
Iceberg: "Red-robed, it won't work, I tried that some sessions ago,
and nothing worked, even he fears me."
Hag: "Aw... drat! Why do all these yummy kitties have to be friends
with strong young men?!"
Lou: "It's in our contract."
* Ebony sticks his tounge out.
* Lou laughs.
Hag: "Oh, well. Here's my stuff."
Battle Cane 500S
Shadow Cane 500S
Hood 50S
Heavy Robe 250S
Bracelet 100S
Star Light 100S
Lou: "Nothing I can use here."
Ebony: "Looks like stuff for Points."
Lou: "Well, this is a magic shop."
Ebony: "Some star lights might be helpful."
Iceberg: "I would ask about the Hood, Heavy robe, Bracelet, and Star
Light..."
Lou: "I agree, but save 500 for Bulix though, or try to anyway."
Ebony: "Well Points, choose... but choose wisely."
Lou: "Umm, can we just stop the bickering, buy the stuff, and head for
the boat? I got a really bad feeling about something back in Saith."
Hag: "You want to see my goodies?"
Lou: "Umm, no, just the stuff you have for sale, thank you."
Ebony: "Lou... I'll just ignore that."
Iceberg: "Again, she's deaf... I'll try the hood, the bracelet, and one
star light. I like my Glacier robe too much to change it.."
Lou: "Gotcha, Iceman."
Ebony: "Can I have a sta light, too?"
Iceberg: "Okay, Ebano!"
Lou: "Sure, Eb."
Hag: "All right. That'll still be 350 Silver."
Lou: "Here you go, uhhh... Miss..."
* Ebony takes his Star Light, puts it... wherever he carries stuff...
It's better you don't ask...
Lou: "Shall we hit the road, guys?"
Ebony: "I think we should buy that Shell Bracelet for Bulix..."
Lou: "Okay, let's get back to Ramus', grab the gizmo, and head for the
docks!"
Iceberg: "I agree with Ebony. Wear it you, Lou, until next week..."
Lou: "I'm not sure if I can wear it, but I will until Bulix gets
back."
~~~Shell Bracelet acquired.~~~
Ebony: "This 'bad feeling' thing bugs me... Makes it feel like impending
battle..."
Lou: "I'm not sure if it's battle or disaster though..."
* Ebony lands on Lou's shoulder, looking bored and tired.
Lou: "You okay, there, Eb?"
Ebony: "Uh huh, yeah."
Lou: "Okay, no prob."
~~~The salty sailors at the docks look bored.~~~
Lou: "Hey guys, we got your writ."
Salty Sailor: "Aye, yee sher do!"
Lou: "Thank you very much. Off we go, guys! Saith is just a short trip
across the sea."
Salty Sailor: "Well, it's getting a tad dark now. Ye don't mind an
overnight sail, do ya, lads?"
Lou: "Not at all, at least I don't think we do. The lighthouse is still
shining, right?"
~~~About three sailors get on the small boat and usher the group to
board. One lifts up the anchor, another unties a thick rope, and the
third barks at the other two telling them they're not doing it well
enough.~~~
Iceberg: "Board 'La Hispaniola'!"
* Lou moves up to the front of the ship and tries to see Saith's
lighthouse.
* Ebony finds one of those piles of rope that are always on ships, lies
on it, and falls asleep... has had a zillion battle since the last
time he rested and is tired.
* Iceberg prepares his prays to goddess Althena against seasickness...
Lou: "Good idea, Ice."
Lou: "So Bulix, you ever sailed before?"
Iceberg: "Bulix looks affected by the sea... Uh, oh..."
Lou: "Get praying, Iceman!"
~~~With a Loud thud, the boat drops and begins to head toward far-off
Caldor Isle...~~~
* Lou smells the salt air and is reminded of home.
* Ebony either has 'Z's floating up or a bubble coming out of his nose
in the tradition of sleeping RPG people
* Lou hums an old familiar tune... "Laaa, la la la la, la la la la la
la la la..."
* Iceberg keeps praying... "Dale a tu cuerp.. er... Goddess Althena,
May this ship would be blessed with your light."
~~~The Blue Star eventually becomes bright as the blue backdrop around
it slowly fades to black...~~~
* Lou looks up to the Blue Star, almost entranced in its
beauty. "Goddess, what a beautiful night this is!"
* Iceberg knows the Blue Star in the sky is protecting us.
* Lou whispers to himself, "I hope everyone's alright, especially..."
Ebony: "zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz......"
~~~The gentle rocking motions of the small boat can be perceived as
either relaxing or nauseating...~~~
* Lou has sailed since he was a small child, living in a port town after
all, and is relaxed
~~~Several hours pass as the icy mountains on Caldor Isle grow closer
and closer.~~~
Iceberg: "Icy, Icy!!"
Lou: "Ice, you love those mountains, huh?"
Iceberg: "I *love* everything related to ice! That is to say, me."
* Lou loves the sight of home. "Caldor is a rather chilly part of this
world, but it's home, and I love it anyway."
* Ebony is asleep and really has no home.
~~~Hours and hours pass...~~~
* Ebony thinks if the others were smart they would get some rest.
Lou: "Well, it's still a ways off. I guess I'll take a nap."
Iceberg: "That remembers... We haven't gone to the toilet since...
we first left Vane!!!!"
* Lou lies down near the front of the ship and falls fast asleep.
* Iceberg runs to the toilet!!!
~~~More hours and hours...~~~
Sailor: "Land ho!"
~~~The loud shout and the sliver of sunlight coming over the horizon
are a sudden jolt.~~~
* Lou is awakened from a strange dream. "Wha, wha... we there already?"
* Iceberg hadn't dreamt... He was praying...
* Ebony raises his head and looks around. "Wha...?"
Lou: "Ebony, we're almost there!"
Ebony: "But I wanna sleep more..."
Lou: "It's still a bit away, I'd figure about another hour at least."
* Lou lies back down and tries to rest.
* Ebony misses Miko...
* Lou falls asleep again and starts having the same strange dream.
* Ebony walks to the side and looks at the water, sighs.
~~~The port gets closer and closer.~~~
* Lou twitches in his sleep like he was having some sort of nightmare.
* Ebony says quietly, "Why do WE have to save the world? I just wanna
find some nice place... and have a nice simple life... No monsters,
no circus..."
* Lou wakes up again, remembering almost nothing of the dream, and
walks up to the Captain. "How much longer to the island do you
think?"
Captain: "Aye... another 10 mintues or so. You'll know when we're
there. The impact will bowl you over if you're standing up like that,
lad."
Lou: "Okay, I'll get back from the end of the ship then. Thanks."
* Ebony walks away from the edge.
* Iceberg levitated a bit...
~~~The sailors get up and start munching on tins of fresh sardines.~~~
Iceberg: "Ebano... fish!"
Ebony: "Nah... I'm not hungry..."
Iceberg: "You deceive me!"
Lou: "You feeling okay, Eb?"
Ebony: "Yeah... fine..."
Lou: "Worried about Miko or something?"
Ebony: "I don't really wanna do all this..."
Lou: "Save Alex and all that, Ebony?"
Ebony: "Well sure, it's a good cause... but why ME?"
Lou: "Ebony, you're a black dragon? That's a pretty good reason, but
I can almost understand how you feel, Eb..."
Ebony: "Well, after this I am going to settle down with Miko. No caves
for me."
Lou: "Hey, it's your perogative."
~~~The ship crashes up against the port.~~~
* Ebony sinks his claws into the deck.
* Lou is jostled, but keeps his balance. "Hhh, we're home!!!!"
Sailor: "We're heer! Now get the hell offa me boat, lads!"
Lou: "Guys, let's go! We're back in Saith!"
Iceberg: "Well, Saith,... Do you have a house heer?"
Lou: "Yeah, it's in the northern side of town."
Iceberg: "Should we ask the villagers? Or right to Burg?"
Lou: "Well, there is someone I wanted to see here first, Ice. Hmm, I
wonder if she's home..."
Iceberg: "She...? Hmmm..."
Lou: "Yes, Ice?"
Iceberg: "Oh, nothing, any old love in ev'ry port?"
Lou: "No, only here."
~~~Saith appears to be in normal operation. Everyone here seems to be
uninterrupted from the recent events. The hot steam from the local
blacksmith shop can be seen from blocks away.~~~
Lou: "At least the town looks all in order."
* Ebony yawns and climbs up Lou like a tree with his claws.
Lou: "Ouch! Hehe."
* Ebony doesn't penetrate the cloth, finally reaches his shoulder.
* Lou grimmaces a bit, but bears with it.
* Iceberg tells Ebano not to do that in his Glacier robe...
* Ebony stretches his wings, isn't a morning person.
Lou: "Sleep well, Ebony?"
Ebony: "Not long enough."
Lou: "Guys, shall we stop by my place? We can get some breakfast
before heading to Burg."
Iceberg: "Breakfast, yes, good time to have it."
Ebony: "Maybe asking someone here if Alex got on a boat would be
smart."
Lou: "True... Let's hit the tavern first. Oh, the blacksmith knows a
lot about here, too, and he's an old friend of mine."
* Lou walks into the tavern.
* Iceberg follows Lou.
* Ebony looks for girls in bunny suits.
Lou: "Hello, everyone!"
Tavern Dude: "No pets or kids!"
Ebony: "I... am... NOT... a... PET!"
Lou: "Settle down Ebony... The Tavern owner is a bit gruff. Hey, it's
me, Lou, and these are friends, okay? Don't you remember?"
Tavern Dude: "Lou? Really? Well, I usually don't open this early. What
do you need?"
* Ebony grumbles to himself.
Lou: "Yes, it's me. Been a long trip. Just wondering if you know if
Alex has taken a boat to the mainland recently. Also, have you seen
Diana around?"
Ebony: "Girlfriend?"
* Lou blushes redder than an apple. "Ebony, well, sorta. Long story..."
Barkeep: "Now, Lou. You know Diana's parents would never let her come
in a place like this."
Lou: "I know, I know... but I figured you may have seen her around
town while on your errands or something..."
Barkeep: "Yeah, I did see her picking flowers the other day across
the street. I hope the old lady doesn't find out."
Barkeep: "And I haven't seen Alex, either. He's probably too busy
expecting the baby with Luna."
Lou: "Luna's going to have a baby?"
Iceberg: "Baby?!? Good news!!! A demi-GoD!!"
Ebony: "Well, let's move on then."
Lou: "Okay, let's head for the blacksmith shop. It's next to that flower
patch. Thanks, Mr. Julian. See ya later."
Barkeep: "No problem, Lou!"
* Iceberg is lost in his thoughts... a DemiGod here... hmmm...
* Lou exits the store. "You guys with me?"
Iceberg: "Yes, Lou, just thinking..."
Ebony: "I'm on your shoulder Mr. Perceptive."
* Lou looks towards the flower patch.
~~~There are indeed some flowers missing.~~~
Lou: "I wonder if Diana is near the back of the patch... Can't see her..
Let's try the blacksmith shop."
Iceberg: "Steam, steam!"
Ebony: "My fur will get fluffy..."
~~~The armorer is banging something on his anvil.~~~
Lou: "Hi there, Mr. Okita!"
~~~He stops and takes off his goggles.~~~
Okita: "Lou? Zat you?"
Lou: "Yes it is, Mr. Okita. How you been?"
Okita: "Pretty great! And yourself? How was your trip?"
Lou: "It was quite full of adventure, but we got back safely enough."
* Ebony mutters to Lou, "If you think your 'trip' is over, I'm afraid
you're deluding yourself."
* Lou mutters back to Ebony, "I never said it was over."
Lou: "Lemme introduce you to my friends. This is Ebony, Iceberg, and
Bulix."
* Iceberg thinks we should begin opening some spelling schools around
Lunar... The language is screwed...
Iceberg: "Hi, Mr. Okita, nice to meet a blacksmith..."
~~~Okita politely shakes everyone's hand.~~~
Lou: "Mr. Okita, have you seen Diana?"
Okita: "Yes, Diana comes by every day to see if I've heard from you. I
hate to break her heart, but she should be delighted today!"
Lou: "Where is she then? I saw some flowers missing in the patch, but
she wasn't there."
Okita: "Yes, she loves to take the flowers that the old woman above my
shop plants. I hope she doesn't get in trouble."
Lou: "Me, too, Mr. Okita, but do you have any idea where she went after
picking the flowers, and have you got any specials today?"
Okita: "I do have plenty in stock, but it's high-grade stuff. I don't
know if you could afford any of it on your allowance."
Lou: "Well, we made some nice cash on the mainland. Mind if I at least
check it out?"
Iceberg: "We have 300 silver, Mr. Okita. What could we buy?"
* Okita looks painfully at the young wizard. "Not much. Here's a run
down on what I have so far."
Long Sword 500s
Scimitar 2500s
Flame Sword 1000s
Steel Mace 750s
Iron Axe 500s
Steel Knuckle 500s
Long Bow 500s
* Lou is disheartened at the high prices...
Okita: "I also have some armor..."
Tinplate Armor 300s
Chain Cowl 75s
Tin Shield 250s
Kenji Sleeve 250s
Wolf Wrap 250s
Ebony: "Nothing for me."
* Iceberg doesn't see anything for him...
Lou: "Hmm, you're right Mr. Okita, I don't think we can afford much
of this stuff. Can you hold some for us until we save up enough?"
Okita: "Lou, for you, I'll hold on to anything. You've been such a
devoted apprentice!"
Lou: "Thanks, Mr. Okita. See you later! Guys, let's head for my place
and have some breakfast. Perhaps Diana will be there, too."
* Ebony rides Lou, still looking tired.
* Lou exits the store and heads for his house
* Iceberg likes this city... the smell of sea, salt, and fish...
* Lou is glad Ice likes his home.
~~~Diana is talking with Mrs. Lou.~~~
Diana: "And you *still* haven't heard from him? Okay, thanks. Stay in
touch, okay?"
Lou: "Diana, Mom, that you????"
* Lou runs towards his house.
* Ebony falls off Lou, mutters, and flies along after him.
* Lou picks up Ebony, apologizes, and runs again.
* Iceberg without undestanding anything, runs too...
* Diana turns around slowly. "Huh...?"
Lou: "Diana, it's me, Lou!"
Diana: "Lou!"
Lou: "Diana! It's great to see you!!!"
* Ebony finds a flat surface and curls up on it.
* Diana's eyes turn into liquid pools of rapture as she runs and
tackles Lou to the ground. "Miss me?"
* Lou smiles at Diana. "You bet I did! How are you?"
* Iceberg watches silently... "My heart is cold as ice..."
* Ebony lets the humans do their mating ritual and falls asleep again.
He has a one track mind, dreams about Miko...
Diana: "You idiot! I've been worried sick, but I see you're still
alive. How was the decade anniversary festival?"
Lou: "Diana, it was a disaster! Vane was attacked by the Vile Tribe!
We got transported to the Frontier and had to fight our way back!
That's why it took so long for me to get here!"
Diana: "Wow! Really? You're not just making that up to impress me?
I'm still writing a comic book about you, you know."
Lou: "Awwwwww *blush* thanks, Diana, and it's true. Ask my friends. We
even got to save Vane from the Viles! Oh, by the way, that's Ebony
sleeping over there, and this is Iceberg and Bulix."
Iceberg: "True, female Diana. Your Lou is a brave one... Keep it
near you!"
Lou: Thanks Ice, hehe."
Diana: "Well you still had no right staying away that long without so
much as a letter!"
* Iceberg smiles... "Ah, l'amour..."
Lou: "Diana, I'm sorry. I promise I'll never do it again, okay? I don't
think a letter would have gotten here, though. No boats were leaving
Meribia since the disaster... So, Diana, how's the planning for the
Saith/Burg festival going?"
Diana: "Well, the festival will be in Burg, as this is an odd year.
It's actually tomorrow, but I wasn't going to go since you weren't
here, but now we can! Apparently it'll be really fancy since Luna's
baby is almost here."
Lou: "No kidding Diana! I gotta congratulate her then when I see her!
I'm going to Burg anyway as part of a mission. Care to join us? I'd
like it a lot if you came along, Diana!"
Iceberg: "The festival, the birth... Let's go to Burg!"
Diana: "You bet! What's this mission you're talking about? Who did you
meet?"
Lou: "Oh, we met all the big guys. Mel, Nash, Mia, Lemia, you name it!
As for this mission, we need to find Alex to help save the world from
the Viles..."
* Lou blushes again. "...and thanks for coming along Diana..."
Diana: "So you just need to talk to Alex? This should be easy. I'll
need to stop by my house first, though."
Lou: "Sure, no problem. We'll meet you at the entrance to town. Okay,
Diana?"
Diana: "Sure. I'm ready to roll!"
Lou: "See ya then!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~Elsewhere, Thesian, Isis, and Eomar are heading toward Lann.~~~
* Isis keeps on walking by herself kicking sticks on the ground as
she walks..
* Eomar somewhat walks away from Isis, and talks to Thesian.
* Thesian seems a bit cheerier at the idea of going home again. "It's
been a long time since I've been home... 4 years."
* Eomar thinks back... "Lessee, Thes, have we done anything in Lann to
get us in trouble?"
* Thesian scratches his head. "I don't think so. That sure was a close
call in Vane, though!"
Eomar: "By the way Thes, just what are we gonna do about the situation
in Vane?"
Thesian: "Beats me...I'm sure we'll find a way to pay them back,
somehow. After all, saving the city wasn't exactly a small favor."
* Eomar nods. "I suppose we could always just tell them the truth.
The worse that would happen is... Well, uh, actually, I'd prefer
not to think about that."
~~~You can see Lann coming nearer and nearer across the horizon... The
smell of fresh water lakes and salted fish become faintly present as
the group approaches.
* Thesian chuckles a little. "Ebony would have loved to come here
again..."
~~~Eventually the group arrives in Lann. The caravan is visible and
seems that it's preparing to go!~~~
Eomar: "We'd better hurry to the Caravan!"
* Thesian nods. "Let's go!"
~~~A bored caravan master stands by the head carriage.~~~
Caravan Dude: "Huh?"
Eomar: "Uh, well, we'd like to get on the caravan."
Caravan Dude: "Really? We have most of the cars vacant. No one wants
to go to Tamur. Too scared by the stories of evil water..."
Eomar: "Evil water??!"
* Thesian looks concerned.
Caravan Master: "Yeah, apparently the rivers and waterfalls turned
black and sticky. By the time news gets to us, though, it's pretty
dated."
Isis: "Shouldn't that have been fixed since we made Vane right side
up?"
* Eomar hmmms. "Well, all the more reason to go! We should
investigate!"
Caravan Master: "Cars are going for 100 Silver a piece. How many do
you need? Any cargo?"
Eomar: "Uh... just the three of us, no cargo..."
* Thesian looks as if he is choking.
* Eomar performs the Heimlich manuever.
Thesian: "100 silver?? That's practically robbery! Can't we just...
umm... ride in a cargo car, or something."
* Eomar reminds Thesian that the last car was 1000 silver.
Thesian: "Well, I agree that we need to see what's happening. I can't
just let Tamur be overrun by demons!"
Caravan Master: "Well, we can leave as soon as you're ready."
Eomar: "We're ready now. Well... do you think weapons are better here
or in Tamur?"
* Thesian starts. "That reminds me, I need to look into getting a better
blade." He eyes his little ceremonial sword thoughtfully.
Caravan Master: "Weapons? Here? Hah! No, they have crappy stuff in
Tamur, but they have NO stuff here."
Eomar: "Oh. Well, then we can leave now, I suppose. Do we want to buy
some calm herbs or something?"
Thesian: "Well, if the caravan is leaving now, perhaps we should wait
until Tamur."
Eomar: "Thesian.. yes, I just have a certain feeling That we may
not make it to Tamur entirely peacefully."
~~~The Caravan Master seems anxious to leave.~~~
Caravan Master: "That will be 300S, unless you folks want to share a
car and clip toenails together. "
Thesian: "I can't bear to give him the silver... You give it to him,
Eomar."
Eomar: "Do we just want to share a car? Would it be crowded in one
car?"
* Thesian shrugs. "It's fine with me..."
* Eomar hands the man 100s.
* Thesian climbs into the car.
* Eomar and Isis follow Thesian.
~~~The caravan swiftly leaves. It goes quite a bit faster due to the
lack of passengers. It seems you arrive in Nanza in no time and
enter the dark Barrier without delay.~~~
Eomar: "Wow, hope I have time to finish clipping my toenails!"
* Thesian looks around. "This place sure doesn't look very cheery..."
~~~The dark stone walls seem forboding, but you are reassured by the
gang of Guardians that flank the caravan. They seem annoyed to have
to protect so few passengers.~~~
Thesian: "Everything okay here? We heard the news about the black
water..."
~~~A slightly-less-than-mentally-gifted guardian looks up and picks his
nose.~~~
Guardian: "Huh?"
Isis: "You gonna eat that?"
* Thesian stares at the Guardian, not able to help his look of open
disgust. "We heard there was trouble in Tamur, and in this area..."
Guardian: "Nah... the water's fine in Stadius since those fancy
shmancy wizards did something. I dunno..."
* Eomar seems relieved, but he'll still ask some people about it when
he gets there.
Thesian: "Huh? What wizards?"
Guardian: "You know. The Vane wizards. They fixed it."
* Thesian nods absently.
* Eomar pulls out his Game Gear and plays PS1. "This comes in handy
for long trips, you know."
* Thesian watches over Eomar's shoulder with interest. "Hey! Get
that guy! Over there!! No, not that one!"
~~~The passage through the barrier is otherwise uneventful, and the
bright southern exit can be seen. Eventually the caravan arrives
on the other side of the barrier and the group is assaulted with
a wave of bright sunlight.~~~
* Thesian holds his arm in front of his eyes until they adjust to
the light.
* Eomar's eyes adjust quickly.
~~~The guardians return to their posts at the cavern entrance and the
caravan continues swiftly along the Marius plains. The caravan speeds
briskly beneath the beautiful sky above. A brilliant blue, with just
the right amount of cloud cover.~~~
Eomar: "Just right so that the sun's not in our eyes?"
~~~The caravan swiftly dashes past Reza, avoiding it entirely, and
heads quickly for Meryod, seemingly free of bandit attacks. After
cruising through Meryod, the caravan speeds towards Tamur...~~~
* Eomar looks back distastefully at all those hicks in Meryod.
* Thesian shudders.
~~~The waterfalls and rivers of the north seem free from any
affliction now. They flow steadily, and are clear and
unstagnated.~~~
* Thesian breathes a sight of relief. "Whew! It seems those dorks
really *did* get their news late. I was worried..."
~~~The caravan turns around some mountains, and the watery city of
Tamur is seen over the horizon...~~~
* Thesian watches the town grow near eagerly.
~~~Eventually the caravan slows down as it approaches Tamur. The
ride was quite swift due to the light caravan. The caravan
eventually comes to a stop and passengers empty the caravan.~~~
* Thesian rushes out of the car, grateful to be away from Eomar's
toenails.
Eomar: "Don't worry, Thes. I throw my clippings out the window when
I'm done with them."
* Thesian breathes in deeply. "Home!"
Eomar: "Okay! So, now.. the question is, where is Azura's cave in
relation to Tamur?"
* Thesian scratches the stubble on his chin. "Good question..."
Eomar: "Um.. Isis is the map person.."
~~~The town seems rather quiet. A few houses have quaint campfires going
on. Thesian recognizes most buildings here.~~~
* Thesian looks around. "This place sure hasn't changed much..."
* Eomar asks some people around town to describe the water, and if
they saw anything out of the ordinary happen near the waterfall.
Villager: "Um.. yeah, the water was pretty bad a while ago. I think
it got polluted by something, but apparently it recovered itself."
* Thesian waves Isis and Eomar along. "My cousin's farm is back this
way. Come on!"
* Eomar looks around a bit nervously.... "Does your cousin have
a restroom?"
* Thesian winds his way through to the edge of town, to a wide, open
field and a small cottage.
* Eomar stops by the outhouse.
Tam: "Why if it isn't... Thesian? You've come home, boy?"
* Thesian smiles. "Uncle...it's been a long time, hasn't it?"
Isis "Thesian, you lived here? Wow.. I totally haven't been paying
attention to you guys..."
Thesian: "No problem. Isis, Eomar, this is my uncle, Tam.
* Isis shakes Tam's hand.
Thesian: "Tam, this is Isis, and Eomar, my partner."
* Eomar nods to Tam. "Nice to meet you, sir."
Tam: "Is this that treasure hunter friend you were telling me
about?"
* Thesian nods. "Yes, this is the one who I worked with on that
amulet job last year."
Tam: "Amulet... Amulet... Thesian! Where is the amulet?! You still
have it?"
* Thesian shakes his head. "No, as a matter of fact, this person...
well, creature, actually...that we need to find is the one who
convinced me to give it up. I believe she has answers to a lot of
other questions as well, including some from Isis, here."
* Tam seems very uneasy: "You... you gave the pendant to a creature?!"
* Thesian takes a breath. "Tam, you know that magic power that the
pendant has? Well, I found out that it isn't really coming from the
pendant after all..."
Isis: "Both Thesian and I have it! It's really neat.. but it's weird.."
Tam: "Thesian... I... why are you here? We need to talk about this
sometime, but I don't want to rush you."
* Thesian looks at the floor.
Thesian: "Tam, I think we need to find this creature again. Her name
is Azura. In the meantime, I think we could use a good night's
sleep."
~~~A young man comes outside and puts his hand on Tam's shoulder.~~~
Rand: "Well, welcome back, Thesian! Found any ancient lost fortunes
yet?"
* Thesian winks. "Oh, a few. That rich girl in Meribia... Lanear, I
think -- who offered a fortune for the return of that trinket she
lost."
Rand: "Yeah, cousin. You don't seem to be doing too bad!"
* Thesian claps Rand on the shoulder. "How's things around here,
cousin?"
Rand: "Not too shabby. We've been getting good crops year after year,
although I'm sure that's nothing exciting compared to what you've
been doing!"
Thesian: "Is Danyen still taking students these days?"
Rand: "No, he's settled down a bit. The world being at peace and all.
He stopped that about a year ago after people started losing their
interest in war."
* Thesian turns a little serious. "Speaking of peace, we heard about
the waters turning black around here...is everything all right, now?"
Eomar: "Tam, did you notice anything weird at the waterfall?"
Tam: "Yes. It was a short scare. They were polluted for a few days, but
it cleared up just a while ago. I wonder why it happened though..."
Rand: "Good thing we're far enough away from the waterfalls so my crops
didn't get polluted!"
Thesian: "Well Tam, there was upset in Vane recently...and literally!
Hordes of creatures actually turned the city upside down."
Rand: "Wow. You sure have interesting stories from afar!"
Thesian: "It's all right now, though...everything's back to normal. We
do need to find a traveling companion of ours, though...there's a
cave near here that we need to visit."
Tam: "Thesian, this creature you speak of... Describe it for me. What
does it look like?"
Isis: "Well, she's a little blue flying cat creature.. I don't think
she's a *real* flying cat, but... I dunno.. she's like Ebony.. who
is this other flying cat, but he's really a Black dragonette, so I
guess Azura is one, too.."
Tam: "Dragonette?!"
Isis: "Yeah.. but I'm not sure.. I've never seen one before. I don't
really know.."
Tam: "Thesian, it is very important you track down this... creature.
It might... No, you must remember that letter your mother wrote for
you!"
Thesian: "Yes, of course. The pendant is now being carried by a
powerful young warrior, who is looking for Dragonmaster Alex as we
speak. I'm sure he'll take good care of it, until I find its owner."
Rand: "Wow, you lead such an exciting life, Thesian!"
* Eomar looks at Thesian curiously... "A letter from your mother...?"
Thesian: "Eomar, the letter explained that my father... He wanted me to
return this pendant to its rightful master. He died before I was born,
though...and never told my mother who it belonged to."
* Thesian mumbles, looking sad and confused, "Of course, he never
explained what this strange power is, either."
Tam: "And now you've dragged these two others into it? And a lady?! I
thought you had other uses for women, Thesian."
* Thesian smiles. "Well, Eomar's in this to help, but Isis has a strange
power too... I don't know if it's like mine, or not. It...feels
strange..."
Eomar: "I am Thesian's partner. I would help him anyway."
Isis: "Tam, I have a strange power brewing in me. I need to go with
Thesian to figure it out,
Tam: "Strange power...?"
Isis: "...And by the way, need I have a penis to travel and fight?"
* Eomar looks at Isis disparingly and says, "Yeah! What are you
thinking???"
* Thesian gets the sense that the evil monster 'Sexism' must be lurking
in a corner...
* Isis quickcuts sexism! Critical hit!
* Eomar grunts, "I have such a politically correct girlfriend!"
Thesian: "Seems so.."
Isis: "I'm not politically correct. I just don't think one needs a
penis to do any certain task."
Eomar: "Even tho penis is a neato word!"
Thesian: "It is?"
Rand: "I'm gonna go check on the fields again. See you later,
Thesian! I look forward to hearing about some of your daring
exploits!"
Thesian: "Tam, Rand, is it all right if we spend the night here, so we
can get an early start in the morning?"
Tam: "Well, I suppose so. You might want to go see Danyen before he
closes up for the night, though."
* Thesian nods. "Good idea. I need to see about getting a new blade."
He turns to Isis and Eomar. "Let's run over to the weapons store."
* Eomar heads off to the weapons store.
* Isis goes, too.
* Thesian heads out. "We'll be right back, Tam."
~~~The weapons store lies on a raised bridge over the river that runs
through Tamur. Danyen is shining a small dagger and whistling to
himself.~~~
* Thesian heads over to the store.
* Eomar checks out the cheeky babes in Tamur.
* Thesian grimaces. "Not many, I'm afraid... which is one of the
reasons I left."
* Eomar chuckles. "I have a travelling cheeky babe!"
* Thesian decides to surprise Danyen. "Hey, Danyen. How about a few
lessons?"
Danyen: "Nope. I don't do that anymore. You should have... huh...
Thesian?!"
* Thesian chuckles. "How's things, Danyen?"
Danyen: "Pretty damn good! Yourself? What brought you back here to
this little town?"
Thesian: "Oh, we're just looking for a friend of ours, and I wanted to
check up on this old place! Say, Danyen, I'm looking for a new
blade..."
Danyen: "Really? I finished a few this week, but no one's picked them
up yet. Looks like you get first dibs. I'm also carrying all the
armor that comes in now since the old man closed down his armor shop.
Wanna see my stuff? I can take you and your friends into the back
room."
Thesian: "Sure Danyen, that sounds great."
Danyen: "Well, here's the crap I've been working on. I practice with
most of it, so don't be surprised if it's a bit worn."
Thesian: "Crap?"
~~~Danyen shows you his wares.~~~
Long Sword 500S
Scimitar 2500S
Lightning Sword 1000S
Long Bow 500S
Nightshade Dagger 500S
Steel Mace 750S
Tinplate Vest 250S
Iron Headgear 200S
Iron Crown 150S
Tin Armbrace 150S
Tin Buckler 200S.
* Thesian stares at the swords in amazement. "Wow..."
* Eomar eyes the long bow, drooling..
Danyen: "I also have some of this stuff that the caravans bring in."
Herb 50S
Spring Water 25S
Thesian: "Hmmm...let's see... Eomar, Isis, why don't you pick out some
stuff?"
* Isis knows what she wants. "Lightning sword, steel mace, tinplate
vest, tin buckler."
* Eomar says, "Hey! what about the rest of us?"
Thesian: "Isis, sword and a mace? Do you have 3 arms?"
Isis: "Thesian, I can swtich between them."
* Eomar would like to have the long bow and a tin buckler.
Thesian: "I wonder what that Nightshade Dagger does...
* Danyen shows Thesian the dagger.
* Thesian turns the dagger over in his hand. "Interesting..."
* Thesian taps his foot and waits for Eomar to buy something.
* Isis would like a tinplate vest
~~~Carapace vest sold for 25 silver.~~~
* Eomar would like a tinplate vest, also.
~~~Chain Shirt sold for 50 silver.~~~
* Eomar would like the Long Bow.
~~~Light x-bow sold for 20 silver.~~~
* Isis would like the lightning sword, please, and to sell her Saber.
~~~Saber sold for 50 silver.~~~
* Isis needs a tinplate buckler, and sell her carapace buckler,
please.
~~~Carapace Buckler sold for 25 silver~~~
* Eomar needs a tinplate buckler, too. Sell his old one, also.
~~~Eomar buys Tin Buckler. Leather Buckler sold for 10.~~~
Isis: "He's all yours, Thesian.."
* Thesian opens his pack and takes out a Leather Armbrace and a Short
Sword.. "I have a couple things to sell..."
* Danyen looks over the objects: "Hmm... ok, I'll give you 20 silver
for them."
Thesian: "I'll take a TinPlate vest."
~~~Hardleather vest sold for 10.~~~
* Thesian picks up the Lightning Sword. "This weapon is the one I must
take."
Danyen: "Alright, then. It's yours. Let me just take it down for you."
~~~Bolt Edge sold for 55 silver.~~~
Danyen: "Well, I won't have to do any work for a while! Hah! Anything
else, Thes?"
Thesian: "Not unless you're bartending now, too, Danyen."
Isis: "I don't think we could afford much else.."
Danyen: "Hey, if you want good drinks, I'll go there with you right
now! With all this silver, I think I can afford to close up
early!"
* Thesian turns to Eomar and Isis. "Care for a drink?"
Isis: "Sure!"
Thesian: "That's if your buying, Danyen!"
Danyen: "Hah! Nice try, Thesian! Anyway, let's get there and get a good
table!"
* Thesian shrugs and nods. "Shall we go?"
* Isis would like a tall glass of grape juice.
* Eomar wants a super large Dr. Pepper!
* Danyen looks at Isis and Eomar strangely... "You kids ever had a
*real* drink...?"
Isis: "They at least have to have Orange soda here!"
Thesian: "Hey, everyplace has orange soda! It's important!"
* Thesian heads out.
* Isis lemmings.
* Danyen steps into the small, dim tavern of Tamur and everyone stands
up and yells, "Danyen!"
* Eomar raises an eyebrow
* Isis glances over the strangers.
* Thesian blinks, his eyes adjusting to the darkness.
~~~A scantily clad woman suddenly tackles Thesian out of nowhere.~~~
Eomar: "Scantily clad!? Woo-hoo!"
Isis: "Scantily clad?!! Woo-hoo!!!"
Janise: "Thesian! You're back!"
* Thesian tries hard not to suffocate, and hugs her back. "Hey, Janise!
Long time, no?"
Janise: "Yep! I've been lonely here without you! What the hell have
you been doing? You better have found a big ancient treasure for
me!"
Thesian: "Well, it's not so ancient..."
Janise: "Bruno! A round of your hardest!"
* Thesian winks at Isis and Eomar. "Janise can drink a lot of men under
the table."
Isis: "I bet!"
* Thesian whispers to Eomar. "One sniff usually does the trick for
her."
Eomar: "One sniff of what? Eh?"
* Janise fetches four glasses of a strange iridescent purple liquid.
"This is a new one, Thes. You might be able to handle it."
* Thesian looks at the strange, glowing drink. "Bet this stuff shines
on your insides."
* Janise takes the liberty to sit on top of Thesian. "So introduce me
to your friends, stupid."
* Thesian waves at his comrades. "This is Eomar, my partner, and his
cheeky babe, Isis."
* Eomar elbows Isis and whispers to her, "Wow, Thesian has quite the
cheeky babe himself.."
Isis: "Hi, I'm Isis. Nice to meet you, Janise."
* Eomar nods to Janise and says, "Nice to meet you."
* Janise looks over Isis. "So what are you doing with Thesian? And who
the hell does your hair?"
Isis: "I was born with my hair like this."
* Thesian takes his drink and tips it back.
* Isis suddenly tackles Eomar and tickles him!
* Eomar gives Isis the pooper of her life. "AHHH!! unprovocked tickle
fight!"
Isis: "AAYEEEEEEEEEEEE"
* Thesian sets the empty glass on the table. "Ahh! That's got a
helluva kick!" He feels the drink setting in fast, as it is far more
potent than he expected.
* Janise looks at Thesian. "Pff... I have to drink half a dozen of
those before I even see colors. Wuss..."
Thesian: "Oh yeah?"
Janise: "Ooo! Tough guy!"
* Thesian orders another round.
Janise: "So watcha up to, Thesian? Are you gonna stick around for a
while this time?"
Thesian: "Nah, duty calls, ya know? Eomar and I gotta get back to work
soon. We hit it pretty big with a job we had a year ago."
* Eomar nods.
* Thesian starts feeling a little bolder than is good for him. "We just
finished saving Vane's butt, too. Keeping bishee, you shee."
Eomar: "Uh-oh."
Janise: "Aww... you big dummy. What is it this time? My god, you better
not be with those freaks going to the Prairie tunnel!"
* Eomar hmms... "Who's going to the prairie tunnel?
Janise: "It seems everyone here has got a hunch of some secret caves or
something. No one's found an entrance yet, but apparently there's
some ancient treasure in the bottom that grants eternal life to the
first person that finds it. A bunch of flippin' weirdos that live in
this town..."
* Thesian finishes off his second drink.
Eomar: "Interesting. I wonder what started these rumors. Thesian, I
think we should see Azura first thing tommorow."
Thesian: "Hmmm, that seems like a good idea. Maybe she can shed some
light on the subject."
Janise: "I just hope you don't get messed up with them. Seriously, to
think that eternal life could be gained by digging in some
god-forsaken hole... That's *no* life if you ask me!"
* Eomar says to Janise, "No... but there's usually some half-truth to
each such myth. I wonder what's behind it, and if it has anything to
do with the other weird things that have been going on lately."
Janise: "And just who is Azura? Name's ending in A usually mean
female. Another traveling tramp like this Isis of yours?"
* Eomar will let Thesian handle that one.
Thesian: "Why do you wanna know, Janise? You're not jeaLous, are you?"
Eomar: "Heh..."
Janise: "Why, Thesian? Do I have a reason to be jeaLous?!"
Eomar: "Uh-oh..."
Thesian: "Oh, I'm not saying you do. I just know that you're looking
for any excuse to get out of here right now."
* Janise suddenly gives Thesian the pouty look. "Oh... That's not true.
What I really need is you to stay here..."
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