[19:02] <GM|JonB> *** LOG START ***
[19:03] <GM|JonB> ((I'm assuming you did all your shopping between
sessions.))
[19:03] <Kuleno> (( I think I did. <.< ))
[19:03] <Raoul> ((I do believe I did.))
[19:04] <Nikolai> ((moi aussi))
[19:04] <GM|JonB> The party arrives at the train station, escorted by
guards detached from the Airship Project.  It's mid morning, so
there's a bit of a crowd.  The seargent of the guard askes you if you
require their services any more.
[19:05] * Yuki` shakes her head slightly.
[19:05] <Raoul> "I believe we will be well from here on out - but
thank you nonetheless."
[19:06] <GM|JonB> Saluting, the seargent leads his men back to the
facility, mission completed.
[19:06] * Nikolai nods distractedly, looking around the area.
[19:07] * Kuleno says nothing but watches and waits.
[19:07] <GM|JonB> *The train station is not that busy yet, but it
looks like it soon will be.  The ticket booths are open, and it seems
like some trains are already starting to leave for distant parts of
the realm.
[19:09] <Raoul> ((Hm. Exactly where are we going, now? I remember the
general plan was, get to Azrag Biet.))
[19:09] <GM|JonB> ((Faangar, then via boat.))
[19:09] <Raoul> ((Aha.))
[19:10] <GM|JonB> *The trains going to the recently conquered nation
are slightly seperate from the others, if only because the tracks
were laid later.
[19:10] * Raoul sees no one else moving to the ticket booths, and as
such makes the first move towards them. "Excuse me. Have you any
trains headed to Fangaar?"
[19:11] * Nikolai follows Raoul, thinking about security on the
upcoming ride.
[19:12] <GM|JonB> *The operator of the ticket boot in question, a
Moogle, nods.  "Kupo!  We do!  It's leaving in about a quarter of an
hour, there was a small delay due to mechanical difficulties. Do you
wish to purchase tickets?
[19:12] <GM|JonB> "
[19:13] <GM|JonB> *The Moogle looks at the party lining up behind
Raoul.  "Are you all together?"
[19:13] * Raoul thinks. "Are there any other trains leaving today
that are not suffering mechanical difficulties?"
[19:14] <Raoul> "Ah. Yes."
[19:14] <GM|JonB> "Not until this evening, an overnight run."
[19:14] <GM|JonB> "Kupo."
[19:14] <Nikolai> "What is the nature of these difficulties?"
[19:15] <GM|JonB> "Nothing serious, just something to do with the
engine, I was told."
[19:16] <Raoul> "Hm."
[19:16] <Nikolai> "..."
[19:17] <GM|JonB> "There is not a lot of overland travel to the new
province.  So there is only the morning and night runs, Kupo."
[19:17] * Raoul nods, and turns to the party, walking a few steps
away from the ticket counter. "Now or later? The early train leaves
presently, but I am concerned with its mechanics."
[19:17] <Nikolai> "Very well. I think we should take tickets for the
morning run."
[19:18] <GM|JonB> "Oh, don't be!  It was a kupo problem, one that we
deal with evey week!"
[19:18] * Yuki` thinks a bit. "Can we afford to wait?"
[19:18] <Nikolai> "I don't think so."
[19:19] <Raoul> "Then we leave now, and hope this is but coincidence."
[19:20] <GM|JonB> ((You'll purchase the tickets for the early train
then?))
[19:20] * Raoul returns to the counter. "A ticket for us all on the
early run, please."
[19:20] * Kuleno growls but says nothing. He's clearly unhappy either
way.
[19:20] <GM|JonB> "Kupo!  Here you are!"
[19:21] <GM|JonB> ((And you have tickets!))
[19:21] * Nikolai looks to Kuleno. "Objections, Kuleno?"
[19:21] * Yuki` takes a ticket.
[19:22] <GM|JonB> "The train is boarding now, Kupo, and should be
leaving soon, kupo."
[19:22] <Raoul> ((do I owe much, or is this coming out of the plot-
wallet?))
[19:22] * Raoul nods, distributes the tickets if need be, and starts
towards the train. No sense dilly-dallying.
[19:22] <GM|JonB> ((Plot wallet.))
[19:23] * Nikolai follows, paranoia a-blazing.
[19:23] * Kuleno follows along, the dutiful Yeti guard.
[19:23] * Yuki` also follows.
[19:24] <GM|JonB> *The train is actually fairly new, but not that
big.  More cargo than passenger.  It doesn't look like there's
anything wrong with the train from the outside.
[19:25] <GM|JonB> *The passenger cars are at the back, as usual, and
the conductor is ready to check your tickets as you board.
[19:26] * Kuleno makes sure he's eaten before the train leaves.
[19:27] * Nikolai hands his ticket to the conductor. "Is there anyone
else aboard this train?"
[19:27] * Raoul keeps his sword on him, if it's not an issue.
[19:28] <GM|JonB> The conductor checks Nikolai's ticket as he does
so.  "Of course, but we're mostly cargo on this run.  What with the
problems and all down south."
[19:29] * Nikolai nods knowingly
[19:29] <GM|JonB> *The conductor checks all yout tickets, and makes
sure you are all aboard before making a last call for passangers.  No
one comes, and soon the train is underway.
[19:30] <Nikolai> "Well, that's one less problem to deal with."
[19:31] <GM|JonB> *The train picks up speed, and is soon headed out
of Anshan, in a generally South-East direction.
[19:31] * Nikolai turns to the group. "I, for one, don't think we can
afford to rest until we've ensured the safety of this train. I think
we should search it."
[19:31] <Raoul> "I submit that, given our recent events, it is merely
one more problem unobserved."
[19:31] <Raoul> "...Heh. Agreed."
[19:32] <Raoul> ((meant for my line to go after Nik's first, not
second there... But hey, cool.))
[19:32] <Yuki`> "Assuming we can.  And that we can do it without
drawing too much suspicion."
[19:32] <GM|JonB> ((Searching then?  How will you do it?))
[19:33] <Raoul> ((I presume I can't hack my Vehicles to give a bonus
to my Awareness, even if I do manage to get somewhere where it might
matter more than turning over cushions.))
[19:33] <Raoul> ((Since ships != trains. <,<))
[19:33] <Nikolai> "We should start by checking the rest of passenger
car for stowaways, and then the rest of the train."
[19:34] <GM|JonB> ((Nah, you're a boat person.))
[19:34] <Raoul> ((Figured, but had to ask.))
[19:34] * Yuki` raises an eyebrow. "...how exactly will we be able to
check that, that the conducters haven't already checked?"
[19:35] <Raoul> "They may not know what to look for. Or they may
know, and choose not to. In any case, better to try to check than to
not check."
[19:35] <Nikolai> "They aren't expecting to find attackers. And even
if we don't find them before they attack, we may be able to press
them into an attack with less preparation."
[19:36] <Nikolai> "Seeing as last time, I only missed decapitation by
a fraction of a second."
[19:37] <GM|JonB> ((Alright, so, you want a general layout of the
train then?
[19:37] <GM|JonB> ))
[19:37] <Raoul> ((We will take such help! Also, I'm gonna get ice
cream and brownies, so BRB.))
[19:38] <Nikolai> ((yuss preeze))
[19:39] <GM|JonB> ((Engine Car, followed by a pair of coal cars for
the long haul.  7 box cars, you don't know what's in them, then three
passenger cars, the first has a kitchen and facilities, the next one
is the 'cheap seats' car, then the private cabins car, then the
Conductors Car.))
[19:39] <Nikolai> ((Are we in cheap seats, or private cabins?))
[19:40] <GM|JonB> ((Your choice))
[19:41] <Nikolai> ((Private cabins, likely))
[19:41] <Kuleno> (( I don't sit in cheap seats. ))
[19:41] <Raoul> ((no, you stand and glower at them.))
[19:42] <Raoul> ((^_^))
[19:43] <Nikolai> "So. Shall we split up, or remain in one group?"
[19:44] <Raoul> "I suggest two groups: one working from front to
back, one back to front."
[19:46] * Kuleno makes a motion for the not splitting up part.
[19:47] <Yuki`> "...whatever you think would work.  I haven't done
sweeps for people or things before."
[19:47] * Nikolai smiles. "Me neither. I'm running on hunches,
basically."
[19:48] * Raoul is as new to this as anyone else - he's lucky enough
to never have had a stowaway that he needed to search hard for.
[19:49] <Nikolai> "Alright. I think we should stay together,
personally, to minimize the effect of a surprise attack."
[19:50] * Nikolai heads out towards the conductor's car, checking
each and every room between here and there.
[19:50] * Raoul seems outvoted, then, and follows.
[19:51] <GM|JonB> *The conductor's car is locked, obviously, for the
privacy of the people who actually run the train.  There is a ladder
up to the roof.
[19:52] * Nikolai ponders... "Raoul, how's your balance?"
[19:52] * Yuki` blinks. "You're not seriously thinking that?"
[19:52] * Raoul grins. "My balance is a point of honor. You wish to
test it?"
[19:53] <Nikolai> "Well, if you could look down both ends. I'm not
asking you to train-walk... unless you feel it necessary."
[19:53] <Nikolai> "Actually, this being the back end allows for a
full view of the train."
[19:54] * Raoul hops on the first run, looks back. "I will take a
look. I almost hope I am required to walk the roof!"
[19:54] * Raoul climbs up. Anything of interest up here? Assuming a
tunnel isn't comign at his forehead, of course.
[19:55] * Nikolai shrugs at Yuki. "He seemed eager enough to do it."
[19:55] <GM|JonB> ((It's open air.  And the roofs appear to be in
excellent condition.))
[19:56] * Yuki` sighs to herself.
[19:56] * Raoul breathes the quick-moving air, enjoying the speed and
the sheer power of the machine. Truly intoxicating! But: "I see
nothing obviously dangerous!"
[19:57] <Nikolai> "Alright, thank you Raoul. We'll check all else
normally down here."
[19:57] * Raoul climbs back down.. after a second or two, one last
breath of powerful, speedy, real air.
[19:59] <Nikolai> ((brb))
[19:59] <GM|JonB> *The next car forward has a half dozen private
cabins, including the one you secured for yourselves.
[20:02] * Nikolai gives each a perfunctory look- he doesn't suspect
his imaginary assailants are in here. Too obvious.
[20:02] <Raoul> ((brb))
[20:04] <Kuleno> (( brb as well, need a drink ))
[20:04] <Raoul> ((back))
[20:05] <GM|JonB> *Nope, nothing new.  There seems to be a family
with children playing games in one room, but nothing suspiscious in
that car.  The next car is the cheaper seats, rows of seats that are
about half full of a broad selection of species.
[20:05] <Raoul> ((*curious to know just what game. >.>))
[20:06] <GM|JonB> ((A childs game, for teaching language.  You know
the type.))
[20:06] * Raoul walks low to the ground, checking under the sheap
seats.
[20:06] <Raoul> ((Aw. But yes, I do, and some of them are fun.))
[20:07] * Nikolai walks slowly down the aisles, heading for the cargo
holds, generally keeping an eye out for anything.
[20:07] <GM|JonB> *Some passangers look at this group of people who
look like they're missing something.
[20:08] * Yuki` stays back a bit, casually looking around like she's
a tourist.
[20:09] * Raoul grins sheepishly. "Sorry, do excuse me..." Though
it's starting to look like it isn't here, whatever 'it' may be. He
moves on.
[20:09] * Kuleno would try and blend in, but instead he just stomps
behind. Stom stomp stomp, he isn't going to fit in here.
[20:12] <GM|JonB> *The next car is has a kitchen, as well as overflow
cargo for the passengers.
[20:14] * Nikolai looks back to the group. "Well, so far, so good."
[20:15] <Raoul> "Indeed. I do not know whether I am overly concerned,
or horrendously uninformed about what the threats may be."
[20:16] <GM|JonB> *There are a couple workers here, who don't
appreciate thier space being intruded upon.
[20:17] <Nikolai> ((In the kitchen, or in cargo?))
[20:17] <GM|JonB> ((Kitchen))
[20:18] * Nikolai smiles disarmingly at the kitchen workers. "Sorry,
we won't be but a minute." He then proceeds to the cargo cars.
[20:19] <GM|JonB> *The next cars are less pretty, but well built.  A
central walkway between rows of stacked cargo boxes, trucks, and the
like.  You've seen a western, you know the type.
[20:21] * Nikolai walks down the rows, trying if possible to mask the
sound of his footsteps.
[20:22] <Raoul> ((How much of the train is left to check?))
[20:22] <GM|JonB> (Cargo cars, the coal and engine.)
[20:22] <Nikolai> ((coal and engine after cargo. Yeah.))
[20:23] <Raoul> ((Okay. Making sure!))
[20:23] <GM|JonB> *The cargo cars are depressingly similar.
[20:23] * Raoul listens closely, trying to hear anything out of the
normal for the cargo car.
[20:24] * Nikolai sighs. "Well, I think we should return to our
seats. I don't think we'll be uncovering any assailants this way."
[20:25] * Yuki` nods, and immediately starts heading back.
[20:25] <Kuleno> (( Whee, fruitless searches. ))
[20:25] <GM|JonB> (( It was practice for your paranoia.  ))
[20:25] <GM|JonB> ((And so, you all go back to your cabin then?))
[20:25] <Nikolai> ((Establish a protocol, I suppose.))
[20:25] <Raoul> "I suppose. Yet I am still glad that we looked."
[20:25] <Nikolai> "Indeed."
[20:25] <Raoul> ((Better than not checking, and suddenly car bomb!))
[20:26] <GM|JonB> ((Nah, I gotta better one.))
[20:27] <Raoul> ((ninjas? thousands of them?))
[20:27] <GM|JonB> *The party returns to their room, when...
[20:27] <Nikolai> ((Alligators))
[20:27] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|AedeKeirley
[20:27] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Where have you been?"
[20:27] * GM|AedeKeirley is sitting in the room, looking very annoyed
and impatient.
[20:28] * Nikolai sits, looking relaxed. "Just having a look around."
[20:28] * Kuleno grunts and points at the intellect in the bunch.
[20:28] * Raoul blinks. But he won't ask.
[20:28] <Raoul> "We... yes."
[20:28] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Right.  Now, would you care to explain to
be JUST WHAT YOU DID in Anshan?!?!?"
[20:29] * Nikolai sighs.
[20:29] <GM|AedeKeirley> "All I ask is that you deliver some
blueprints, and I find out you burned down the entire facility!"
[20:29] <Yuki`> "Barely escaped with our lives."
[20:29] <Nikolai> "WE didn't burn anything. It was the work of
outside aggressors."
[20:30] <Nikolai> "Did you, perchance, speak witha  Mr. Markius?"
[20:30] * GM|AedeKeirley sighs. "Alright. Come in. I want to hear
this one myself. Getting this though the Earthsiders doesn't make for
good information, it seems."
[20:31] * Yuki` goes in and sits down, then.
[20:31] <Nikolai> "Earthsiders... you've spoken with them?"
[20:31] * Raoul takes a few moments to get his brain back together,
but comes in.
[20:31] * Nikolai sits down.
[20:32] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Not willingly, but yes.  Lord Raoul, you
look out of place here."
[20:32] <Raoul> "Do forgive me. We were concerned with further
attacks, given recent events."
[20:34] <Raoul> "That the only surprise on this train is you has,
well, taken me by surprise."
[20:34] * GM|AedeKeirley shakes her head. "You know, what is it about
the Demon that attracts explosions and fire?"
[20:34] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Oh, you mean me on this train?"
[20:35] * Nikolai shrugs, looking impassive. "It does seem implicit
in the name, doesn't it?"
[20:35] <Yuki`> ((BRB.))
[20:36] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Well...  Enought distractions!  What
happened in Anshan?"
[20:37] <Raoul> "A mob."
[20:37] <GM|AedeKeirley> "I got that, but did you find out about what
they want?  Aside from generally setting things on fire?"
[20:37] * Nikolai lets the others explain.
[20:38] <Yuki`> ((Back.))
[20:38] <Raoul> "That seemed to be their primary objective, yes. They
were well armed and combat trained."
[20:39] <Yuki`> "My guess?  They knew about the zepplins, and wanted
them gone.  That, or they wanted the air crystal collection."
[20:39] * GM|AedeKeirley snaps to look at Yuki. "*WHAT* Air Crystal
Collection?"
[20:40] * Yuki` shrugs. "The one that they've been getting to fly the
things... and apparently the same one I'm not supposed to know about,
based on your reaction."
[20:40] * Raoul glances over. That wasn't something he was hot to
share.
[20:40] <Raoul> ((brb))
[20:41] * GM|AedeKeirley stares blankly at Yuki. "Air Crystals? How
many? I mean... What the abyss?"
[20:42] <Yuki`> "Lots and lots... too many for me to count."
[20:42] * Yuki` mutters to herself under her breath "So the secrets
are still going on... great."
[20:42] <GM|AedeKeirley> "That...  Is news..:
[20:42] <GM|AedeKeirley> "
[20:44] <Raoul> ((back))
[20:44] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Alright...  This needs to be dealt with.
If Reufelgo is stockpiling Air crystals.  Oh, this is just a
headache."
[20:44] <Yuki`> "It was news to us, too.  Although I'm guessing
that's to be expected."
[20:45] <Raoul> "I am, at least, glad that these crystals are a
concern."
[20:45] * Kuleno wonders why humans deal with such silly things.
[20:45] * Nikolai blinks. He's wondering where exactly the Earthside
governments fit in here.
[20:46] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Alright, something needs to be done about
this.  You guys keep what you're doing.  I'll contact you after
you're done for your next mission."
[20:47] * GM|AedeKeirley gets up, and goes for the door. "Anything
else, I should know about before I scream bloody murder at people?"
[20:48] <Nikolai> "This train, based on an amateur search, is clear
of hostiles."
[20:48] <Nikolai> "Or at least, ones we can detect."
[20:49] * Nikolai resets his glasses.
[20:49] * Raoul can't think of anything. But he's forming his own,
private worries.
[20:49] * GM|AedeKeirley grins. "Are you asking me to stay, in case
you hear a bump in the night?"
[20:50] <Nikolai> "No. But it wouldn't hurt to be careful for your
own sake."
[20:50] <GM|AedeKeirley> "I can handle myself, thank you."
[20:51] <Raoul> "Mmhm. Let us hope 'they' cannot."
[20:52] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Very funny.  Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm
not all that welcome in Fanngar, ever since then, and I would like to
be off the train before it crosses the border.  Bye!"
[20:52] * GM|AedeKeirley cheerily shuts the door behind her.
[20:52] * GM|AedeKeirley is now known as GM|JonB
[20:52] * Nikolai waves off that rather cryptic comment.
[20:53] <Yuki`> "...well that was unexpected."
[20:53] <Raoul> "I suspect we should expect it from now on."
[20:54] <Raoul> "Obviously, she is staying aware of our efforts."
[20:55] * Kuleno grunts. "Strage woman."
[20:55] * Nikolai sighs and relaxes. "You said it, Kuleno."
[20:56] * Yuki` shrugs. "Pretty obviously tough, though." A
pause. "She'd have to be."
[20:56] <GM|JonB> (( :) ))
[20:57] <Raoul> ((A GM NPC that can end up pretty much whever she
wants to be, and has connections with at least two governments, plus
several non-governmental agents. Yeah, let's go ahead and not screw
iwth her.))
[20:57] <Raoul> ((^_^))
[20:58] <Nikolai> "Eh. So far, I've seen no evidence that she is more
than a high-stakes errand girl."
[20:58] <GM|JonB> ((BRB, keep talking!))
[20:59] <Raoul> "She... has a history greater than that, I believe.
But I have never heard the details."
[20:59] <Raoul> "Or even terribly much at all."
[21:00] * Nikolai shrugs. "Rumors are rumors."
[21:00] <Yuki`> "I doubt we'll hear much either way until we need to."
[21:00] * Yuki` coughs.
[21:01] * Nikolai looks up. "Feeling ok, Ms. Yuki?"
[21:02] * Yuki` coughs some more, but eventually responds. "Same...
as usual, unfortunately."
[21:02] <GM|JonB> ((back))
[21:03] <Nikolai> ((Will there be combat tonight?))
[21:03] <GM|JonB> ((no))
[21:04] <GM|JonB> *The train reaches the Faangar border in the late
afternoon, and is checked quite thoroughly by the Reufelgan military
types.  Something about checking for subversive elements, but they
quickly overlook you when they find out who you are.
[21:04] * Nikolai walks out casually.
[21:05] <GM|JonB> ((You're leaving the train at the border, not at
its destination?))
[21:05] <Nikolai> ((Oh sorry))
[21:06] <GM|JonB> ((n/p  RetCon!))
[21:06] <GM|JonB> *The train is soon cleared to enter the newest
province of the greater nation of Reufelgo, and you are on your way
southwards to the former capital.
[21:08] <GM|JonB> *Faangar, while technically conquered by Reufelgo,
still has an active resistence movement, backed up by members of the
internal Reufelgan Resistence of some years back who weren't happy
with the outcome of thier revolution.
[21:09] <GM|JonB> *To that end, the province is in something of a
state of turmoil, with random attacks on the government, and whatnot.
[21:10] <GM|JonB> ((Think Ireland before it got nice.  Not Sunday
Massacare bad, but you get the gist.))
[21:10] * Nikolai draws mental comparisons to such Earthside
equivalents.
[21:10] <Raoul> ((Yes. Whatever you do, don't talk about religion.))
[21:11] <Raoul> ((Or, well, whatever they're angry about today.))
[21:12] <Raoul> ((Er, shutting up.))
[21:12] <GM|JonB> *Progress is slower, as the rail roads seemed
recently patched in some places.  A casual conversation from other
passengers reveals that there was a series of bombings last month,
the perps still at large.
[21:13] * Nikolai has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[21:13] <GM|JonB> ((...))
[21:14] <GM|JonB> ((Hrm, all things considered, I need to do some
plotting for next session.  As such, I'm calling it here.))
[21:14] * Kuleno keeps an eye out for suicide bombers, then.
[21:14] <GM|JonB> *** Log END ***

[19:11] <GM|JonB> *** LOG START ***
[19:11] <GM|JonB> *When last we left our band of intrepid heroes, the
aricraft facility was burning merrily, and those responsible were
running away.
[19:12] <GM|JonB> *You had just finished up a big fight, with the
leader of the attacking group choosing discretion over valor.
[19:13] <GM|JonB> *In the back ground, you can hear people coming up
from behind you, fast and heavy.  The sounds of people ready to fight
a fire.
[19:13] * Yuki` frowns, and coughs.
[19:13] * Nikolai sighs. "Well, that's some good news at least."
[19:14] <Raoul> "Yes. Best that the damage be contained, little as
that may mean now..."
[19:14] * Kuleno keeps silent, watching the chaos around him.
[19:15] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|Firefighter
[19:15] <Yuki`> "Will any of it even be left by the time we're done?"
[19:15] <Yuki`> ((*they're done))
[19:15] * GM|Firefighter starts giving orders to contain the fire, to
protect the warehouses, then sees you guys just standing there.
[19:15] <GM|Firefighter> "WHO DID THIS?"
[19:16] * Nikolai blinks, but maintains an air of respect. "Outside
agressors. We're not sure who they were."
[19:16] * GM|Firefighter looks at the party, knowing who you
are. "Are any of you hurt?"
[19:17] * Yuki` coughs some more. "I'll... be alright. Don't need
medical help."
[19:17] * Kuleno looks around. He thinks he kept them pretty well-
healed.
[19:17] * Anika watches Yuki with concern.
[19:17] * Nikolai nods, surveying the rest of the team. Especially
Yuki.
[19:17] <GM|Firefighter> "Then get back.  Go to the guardhouse at the
end of the road there."  I point down the way I came.  "We'll handle
the rest of this."
[19:18] * Yuki` nods, and slowly walks to said guardhouse.
[19:18] * Nikolai obeys after mentally caluclating how useless he
would be in fighting fires.
[19:18] * Raoul is perfectly inclined to do so - a fire of this
magnitude is best left to professionals. He enjoys the air becoming
more palatable as he walks away.
[19:19] * GM|Firefighter is now known as GM|Markius
[19:19] * GM|Markius meets you, coming from the warehouses. "What
happened!?!?" I look like I'm going to break into tears at any moment.
[19:20] <Nikolai> ((1st person narration? weeeeird))
[19:20] <Nikolai> ((Also inconsistent?))
[19:20] <GM|Markius> ((Oops))
[19:21] * GM|Markius looks like he's about to cry.
[19:21] <Anika> (( Yeah, that is weird. >.> ))
[19:21] <Raoul> ((grammar hammar!))
[19:21] * Anika just follows along, unusually quiet.
[19:21] <Yuki`> "What happened... is something damned close to an
army with fire came in and wrecked the place."
[19:21] <Nikolai> "... I would guess there were some people who
weren't as excited about the development as you were."
[19:22] * Raoul thinks they were plenty excited.
[19:22] <GM|Markius> "Did you see who?  Was anyone hurt?  Is it just
the fire?"
[19:22] <Kuleno> "We hurt them," he grunts.
[19:23] <Yuki`> "As for who... lots and lots of them.  Beyond that,
no clue."
[19:24] <Nikolai> "Beyond armed thugs, some of which had magic, I
don't think we can say."
[19:24] * Raoul is thinking. Would the Magic Knight be a thug? He
seemed well-trained in combat...
[19:24] * GM|Markius takes a deep breath to calm himself. "I... We...
Oh Gods..."
[19:26] <GM|Markius> "this is a disaster."
[19:26] <GM|Markius> "Without the facility, we can't build anything.
At least they didn't ge the warehouses...  Has anyone checked the
storage?"
[19:27] <Nikolai> "As far as we know, no. Up until just now, we've
had our hands full with survival."
[19:28] * GM|Markius goes to an adjacent storage unit, full of
cloth. "We have to make sure.."
[19:28] * Yuki` raises an eyebrow.
[19:28] <Nikolai> "What are we checking, Mr. Markius?"
[19:29] <GM|Markius> "To see if there's any more damage!"
[19:29] * Kuleno keeps a close eye on this man.
[19:29] * GM|Markius rushes to the next building, and checks that as
well. He's close to panicking.
[19:29] <Raoul> ((brb, roomie rehooking router))
[19:30] <Yuki`> "...what exactly did you hide?"
[19:30] * Nikolai puts a hand on Markius' shoulder. "Please, you need
to remain calm. We can't be sure this area is totally safe yet."
[19:30] * GM|Markius looks around, wide eyed. "But if the fire goes
further..."
[19:32] * Raoul has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[19:32] <Nikolai> "What exactly are you looking for? Perhaps we can
help you."
[19:32] <GM|Markius> *In the distance, you can see the flames start
to die down.
[19:32] <GM|Markius> "Anything!  Everything!"
[19:33] <Nikolai> "That's... something of a tall order, Mr. Markius.
The fire is out of our hands, we should leave it to the
professionals."
[19:34] <GM|Markius> "then...  then..."
[19:34] <Kuleno> "We professionals," he grunts.  "Or should be."
[19:35] * GM|Markius slumps to the ground. "I don't want it to
burn..."
[19:35] * ElementalKnight has joined #I-DEMON
[19:35] * ChanServ sets mode: +o ElementalKnight
[19:35] * Nikolai smiles at Kuleno. "I'm not sure about you, Kuleno,
but I have no experience in fighting fires, nor much general
strength."
[19:36] * ElementalKnight is now known as Raoul
[19:36] <Raoul> ((Sorry about that.))
[19:36] <Anika> "I don't have anything to put out a fire with."
[19:37] * Yuki` looks at Markius. "What do you need to save from
those flames? And what is it that you think can be saved?"
[19:37] * Yuki` suppresses a cough.
[19:38] <GM|Markius> "Everything in the Warehouses is valuable. It's
not just the construction yard..."
[19:38] * Anika looks to Kuleno. "Can you help?"
[19:39] * Nikolai sighs. "Pick one thing. The single most valuable
thing there."
[19:39] <GM|Markius> "Eveything is needed!  Cloth for the ballon,
metals for the skeleton and engines, the crystals!
[19:39] <GM|Markius> "The wind Crystals!"
[19:39] <Kuleno> (( ... Hey, can I start IMing Shiva? :D :D :D :D ))
[19:40] * Yuki` immediately looks up, and there's a sudden hardness
in her voice. "The Wind Crystal? Where?"
[19:40] <Anika> (( That's why I was hoping for! ))
[19:40] * GM|Markius makes for his feet, and dashes off in a
direction, perpendicular to the fire.
[19:40] <Anika> (( *what ))
[19:40] * Yuki` starts running right behind Markius.
[19:40] * Nikolai follows after him. That sounds fairly significant.
[19:40] * Kuleno follows, getting ready to summon the lady if
necessary.
[19:40] * Anika figures she should follow and starts running, too.
[19:41] * Raoul follows, dazed by this mission. Out of the fire, into
the... well, fire.
[19:42] * GM|Markius leads you in a merry chase around the edge of
the fire, eventually emerging into a small clear area, in which a
bunker stands. He runns up to the door, checking it over.
[19:42] <Kuleno> (( Mr. GM dude? :P ))
[19:42] <GM|Markius> ((Yes?))
[19:42] <Kuleno> (( IM Shiva for hax firefighting? ))
[19:43] <GM|Markius> ((Sure.  If you wanna leave the party.))
[19:43] <GM|Markius> ((Fire is over thataway.  You're a bit of a ways
away.))
[19:43] <Kuleno> (( ... I thought the party was... oh, ok. ))
[19:44] * Kuleno grunts. "Kuleno can help fight fire if man wants,"
he says, gesturing to Markius.
[19:45] * GM|Markius looks up from the door. "No! No. They have it in
hand. Might need you here."
[19:45] * GM|Markius does .. something with the door, and it opens
up, silently. "Come on then."
[19:45] * Nikolai nods. A thorough questioning can wait.
[19:46] * Raoul keeps his ears open for any straggling arsonists,
keeping up with the rest of the party.
[19:46] * Kuleno follows the rest, in that case.
[19:46] * Yuki` follows closely behind, hand near her knife.
[19:46] * GM|Markius leads the party inwards and downwards. You can
see this place wasn't built pretty, but to keep people out, and you
presume, stuff in.
[19:47] <GM|Markius> "We don't actually have an elemental crystal
here, you see.  We tried, but the Paladin's Order as well as the
Ronso kept it from us.  For good reason, I suppose."
[19:47] * Anika is toward the front of the group, looking around
curiously.
[19:48] * Nikolai recalls those names and their signifigance. "Quite
reasonable."
[19:48] <Yuki`> "ver-"  Yuki remembers herself and covers up what she
said with a series of coughs.
[19:48] <GM|Markius> "What we have are the naturally forming ones,
like the impure stones of this type can mimic certain spells."
[19:49] <GM|Markius> "It's the biggest concentration of them
anywhere, that I know of."
[19:49] * GM|Markius reaches another set of doors, after a long,
windy path. "Door looks secure."
[19:50] * GM|Markius reaches down, and pulls out a very complicated
key. "You shouldn't be down here, but I'll risk it. Don't touch
anything."
[19:50] <Yuki`> "Got it."
[19:50] * Kuleno has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[19:51] * GM|Markius uses the key, and the door swings open silently.
He steps in, and looks around. In the small room, at least 30 feet
underground, lay over a thousand Air elemental crystals.
[19:51] * Nikolai raises his eyebrows.
[19:52] <Yuki`> "..."
[19:52] <Raoul> "Oh my."
[19:52] <GM|Markius> *They are all sizes, from slivers and shards to
at least three the size of Kuleno's bunched fists.  The power here is
palpable.
[19:52] * GM|Markius sighs. "All here."
[19:52] <Yuki`> "...so that's how you were going to get those things
into the air."
[19:53] * Anika stares around in awe. "Oooh..."
[19:53] <Nikolai> "Hmm. I must say I'm a bit saddened you felt the
need to keep these a secret from us."
[19:53] * Raoul is awed, but also confused. "...That Refulgo would
house such power in her soil..."
[19:54] <GM|Markius> "We have to.  We don't have the ability to make
this 'Helium' substance that Earth uses.  And this represents all
such crystals in the nation, and some from beyond."
[19:54] * GM|Markius looks at Raoul. "Not power. Not in the way you
think. We use these to help lift the ships and make them move. We had
theory before, but Earth gave us the last clues."
[19:55] * Kuleno has joined #i-demon
[19:55] * Nikolai puts a finger to his brow as he grits his teeth and
mutters. "...simple chemistry..."
[19:55] <GM|Markius> "Not so simple, Nikolai.  The rules of reality
are different here.  Never forget that."
[19:55] <Raoul> "Mm. Do forgive me if I am incredulous; this much
wind could tip many sails."
[19:55] <Yuki`> "So... if it's safe, we should probably go to help
keep it that way."
[19:56] <GM|Markius> "Here is the strength to send Refelgo to the
skies.  And yes, we should leave.  See if there were any others
injured."
[19:56] * Anika raises an eyebrow. "You don't have Helium here?"
[19:56] * Nikolai readjusts his glasses. "Well, I'd appreciate it if
you could be more forthcoming in the future. My constituents are not
great fans of duplicity, Mr. Markius."
[19:57] * GM|Markius glares. "We never lied. We just can't wait the
years your plans required."
[19:57] <GM|Markius> "So, we used our own way, that Earth never
could."
[19:57] * Yuki` coughs. "We can talk after locking the doors to here."
[19:58] * GM|Markius waits by the doors. "Come on."
[19:58] * Nikolai adopts a negotiatory tone. "I am not accusing you
of lying, Mr. Markius. I only regret that our dialogue could not have
been more honest. I hope we can change this in the future."
[19:58] * Yuki` starts to leave, then.
[19:58] <Nikolai> ((Negotiation, if applicable.))
[19:58] * Kuleno will be the last to leave, per usual.
[19:58] <Nikolai> ((Or Seduction, as it were.))
[19:58] * Anika has difficulty picturing a world in which the Earth
elements do not exist.
[19:58] <GM|Markius> ((Not at this point.  Sorry))
[19:59] <Kuleno> (( Smooth Talk! ))
[20:00] <Anika> (( Why not? ))
[20:00] * GM|Markius waits for all of you to exit the room, and takes
one last look around before closing and locking the door. "Honesty
goes for both sides. We know you have more powerful devices to fly
with, Nikolai. You choose no tto share those, we don't share all our
plans either."
[20:00] <GM|Markius> ((Because that would cut out the fun of
exposition.))
[20:01] <Raoul> ((Oooh, exposition.))
[20:02] <Kuleno> (( I could live with cut exposition. Not like I say
much. :P ))
[20:02] * GM|Markius follows the rest of you outside, and closes the
door behind him. He looks over at the smoke rising from the
construction yard. "I think that's been put out by now. There isn't a
lot of flammable stuff in there just yet."
[20:02] <Nikolai> "Ahh. Well, I apologize for that. However, the
other methods we have are of a much riskier nature, and we'd rather
your first venture into aereonautics be a sucess."
[20:03] * GM|Markius sighs. "Success or no, we need this."
[20:05] <GM|Markius> *There is a couple armed guards coming at you.
They Markius and salute.  "We don't know how they got in sir, but one
of our Runics" the guard nearly spits this out, "found where they
used some sort of time magic to get out."
[20:05] * Nikolai blinks "Ahh, that does make sense."
[20:06] * GM|Markius kicks at the ground. "And that's another thing.
You don't have to worry about somone teleporting in or out."
[20:07] <Kuleno> "... man just said they did that."
[20:07] <GM|Markius> "And no where near enough Runics to provide
cover, what with Ferrum in exile, Abyss knows where."
[20:07] * Raoul raises an eyebrow. "Any indication of how many?"
[20:07] * GM|Markius smiles. "He's probably dead, lucky bastard."
[20:08] * Anika blinks at all this talk of magic.
[20:08] <GM|Markius> *The guard looks at Raoul, and stiffens even
further.  "Over 50.  Mostly fighters of some sort or another, a
couple mages.  That many, they couldn't have gone far."
[20:09] <GM|Markius> "We did find some Warp Stones, or the like, and
packed them away for analysis later."
[20:10] * GM|Markius looks at the party. "There you have it. Hit and
Run."
[20:10] * Raoul nods. "Good. Any clue as to their direction, and are
there mounted units available to track them?"
[20:11] <GM|Markius> *The guard shakes his head.  "Not in the city.
Nearest 'bo cavalry is a half hour away.  They got us good."  He
doesn't look happy with this fact.
[20:11] <GM|Markius> ((BRB.  Keep talking))
[20:11] <Yuki`> "...how could they get you in the first place?  I
didn't think this place was supposed to be that well known."
[20:12] <Raoul> "Understood." *sigh* "The warp stones will have to be
our guide, then, to ensure this happens only once. We have little
choice, now."
[20:13] <GM|Markius> "Ma'am, things happen.  Not my area."
[20:13] <Nikolai> "Is there any chance I can have a look at those
Warp Stones? I'm something of a Time Magic specialist."
[20:14] * GM|Markius looks at Nikolai. "Can't hurt. It'll be an hour
before the specialists come in, for the area to be 'secure'." He
looks at the guards. "Lead on."
[20:15] <GM|Markius> *The guards snap to attention, and lead the
party to the outskirts of the compund, to what seems like barracks.
They're empty at the moment, but look like there were a few people in
there a short time ago.
[20:16] <GM|Markius> *they take you to a back room, and nod to a few
small dull black stones on the table.  "Here."
[20:16] <Nikolai> "Hmm. Thank you."
[20:17] * Nikolai approaches the stones, trying to sense any residual
Time Magic signatures.
[20:17] <GM|Markius> ((You have Lore; Time Magic?))
[20:18] <Nikolai> ((Yeah.))
[20:18] <GM|Markius> ((Roll it, -20.))
[20:18] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[20:18] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 1d100: 15 ( Total: 15 )
[20:18] <GM|Markius> ((Success by?))
[20:18] <Nikolai> ((Pass by 29, after mod))
[20:20] <GM|Markius> *Nikolai passes his hands over the stones.  They
were used recently, thier powers gone for the most part.  They were
moderately powerful.  But you can't get a trace on where they went.
If you found the arrival point, you would know it.  Between 3 and 400
meters from the start.
[20:21] <Nikolai> "Hrm. Interesting, but not very useful..."
[20:22] <GM|Markius> "How do you mean?"
[20:23] <Nikolai> "Or at least, nothing that I can detect. I'm sure
your specialists can uncover more. As for me, I can't get a read on
their arrival point."
[20:23] * GM|Markius curses. "Nothing, then?"
[20:25] * GM|Markius slumps in an available chair. "We'll have to
wait then. Get some sleep, if you can, all of you. I would like your
help in the morning, when there's light to go through the dock for
salvage."
[20:26] * Kuleno grunts. He'll be keeping watch, not sleeping - he's
had enough of that.
[20:26] * Yuki` nods slightly. "Alright..."
[20:27] <Raoul> ((brb))
[20:27] * GM|Markius nods off, right there in the chair, leaving the
rest of you to talk about what just happened, and what you saw.
[20:27] <Nikolai> "Very well. Let us know if there is anything else
we can do."
[20:27] * Nikolai departs.
[20:30] <GM|Markius> ((no player discussions?))
[20:31] <Kuleno> (( Because Kuleno is the most talkative person
evar :P ))
[20:31] * Yuki` doesn't have much else to say, no.
[20:31] <Raoul> ((back))
[20:31] * Raoul has little more to add - unless they've taken to the
sea, he can't track them until he knows which way they went.
[20:31] <Anika> (( I'm not *quite* sure what's going on. I'm not sure
if that's the amount of time it's been since I've played or the
drugs. o.O ))
[20:31] <Nikolai> "Hmm. I have to wonder how much time and effort
goes into accumulating that many crystals..."
[20:32] <GM|Markius> (( I blame the meds, Melo. ))
[20:33] <Anika> (( Could be. >.> ))
[20:33] <Kuleno> (( So... FF to morning? ))
[20:33] <GM|Markius> ((Then I'll just play the 'Sleep' music..))
[20:33] <Yuki`> "My guess?  Years, and lots.  A nation can afford to
be patient."
[20:34] <GM|Markius> *Morning comes, and the sun is just rising in
the sky.  Someone brings you all breakfast.  It's not bad, all things
considered.  But definately soldier's food.
[20:34] * Yuki` is fine with that. She's had to eat a lot worse.
[20:34] * Anika grew up in an orphanage. This is gourmet.
[20:35] * Nikolai is too polite to complain, but only just.
[20:35] * Mischa has joined #i-demon
[20:35] * Raoul is used to it. It's not home, but the simplicity is
comforting.
[20:35] * GM|Markius comes in, looking tired. "I took a quick walk
before you guys woke up. The damage from the outside isn't as bad as
I was expecting."
[20:36] <GM|Markius> "Walls are still standing, but I didn't go
inside.  The marshall wouldn't let me in before sunup."
[20:38] <GM|Markius> "Did you want to help me look around for
evidence, or I know you guys had other places to go.  I know Raoul
here has his own delivery to make."
[20:38] <Yuki`> "There are some things I need to do... but I don't
think it's possible right now."
[20:38] <Nikolai> "That's true."
[20:39] * Kuleno has nothing else to do.
[20:39] <Raoul> "Yes, and given this event, haste may be in order."
[20:41] * GM|Markius nods. "I can understand. And having amateurs
underfoot for the recovery of material may not be appreciated."
[20:41] <Raoul> ((I'm not sure I'm qualified to say, hey, let's go
hit Azure now. But that's what Raoul needs to do. <.<))
[20:42] <GM|Markius> ((Azure Isles then?))
[20:42] <Nikolai> "My current priority is to accompany Mr. Raoul
here."
[20:43] <Yuki`> ((I guess.))
[20:43] <Nikolai> "I certainly hope that you and your people can
rebound quickly from this unfortunate occurence, Mr. Markius."
[20:43] * GM|Markius nods. "Thank you. We shall." He offers to shake
the hands of those who wish. "Do you need an escort back to the train
station?"
[20:46] <GM|Markius> "I mean, I know you can handle yourselves, but
just in case...
[20:46] <GM|Markius> "
[20:46] * Yuki` shrugs. "Okay."
[20:47] <Raoul> "Caution feels wise today."
[20:47] <Nikolai> "So far, our paranoia has not been misplaced."
[20:47] * Kuleno nods his agreement.
[20:48] * GM|Markius nods. "Alright." He goes outside, and tells
someone to get a half dozen men to walk you to the station.
[20:48] <GM|Markius> ((I'm running out of steam here.  I want to call
it here, and prep for your trip down south.  Is this OK with you
guys?))
[20:49] <Anika> (( Fine by me. ))
[20:49] <Yuki`> ((Yeah.))
[20:49] <Kuleno> (( Shoa thang. ))
[20:49] <GM|Markius> ((2000 XP, 750 Gil, Shopping available.))
[20:49] * GM|Markius is now known as JonB
[20:49] <JonB> *** LOG END ***

[19:08] * GM|JonB changes topic to 'SESSION IN PROGRESS | FFRPG I-
DEMON Campaign http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/demoncampaign/ |
Current Status: Session 4(cont); 9PM EST, Feb 10 (get ready to
rumble.  No RP, just battle)| Session #4a rewards: 2000 XP'
[19:08] <GM|JonB> You all settle in for the night, paranoia not
withstanding.  It's epic quiet out in the construction dock itself,
the so called deafining silence.
[19:08] <GM|JonB> It's after midnight, and that's when the first
explosion rings out ont he far side of the structure.
[19:09] <GM|JonB> *BOOOOM*
[19:09] * Yuki` is woken up with a start and grabs her knife by
instinct. "What happened?"
[19:09] * Nikolai snaps immediately to attention.
[19:09] * Raoul sits up. "Odd alarm clocks in Refulgo."
[19:10] <GM|JonB> There is the sounds of alarms in the background,
but it seems to few fo *BOOM* r what's going on outside.
[19:11] * Nikolai dons his coat, and steps into the common room,
looking for anyone alse awake.
[19:11] <GM|JonB> If any one you cares to look outside, there are
quite a large number of people you don't think are supposed to be
there, and some are carrying torches, other large barrels.  Sone are
just pointing, and flame comes form thier fingers.
[19:11] <Yuki`> "..."  She immediately gets her stuff together and
runs down to look outside.
[19:11] <Yuki`> "We... are in deep, deep shit right now."
[19:11] * Raoul gets his sword on his back. "I presume that is as bad
as it sounds."
[19:12] <GM|JonB> More alarms, and, for the first time, screams.
Some are cut rather short.
[19:12] * Nikolai walks outside, heedless.
[19:12] <Yuki`> "People with torches, people with barrels, fire
mages - we need to get everyone together, and get out while we can!"
[19:13] * Kuleno stands at the door, staff in hand, watching the
explosions.
[19:13] <GM|JonB> Some of the intruders see Nikolai, and a few break
off towards him.
[19:13] * Yuki` looks for Anika.
[19:14] * Anika shoots up in bed. "What was that?"
[19:14] <GM|JonB> Yep.  Looks like the guys heading towards you are
out for blood.  A couple come closer, not seeing Kuleno, only Nikolai.
[19:14] * Kuleno stands behind Nikolai, doing his best to be
intimidating.
[19:14] <GM|JonB> ((tunnel vision FTW!))
[19:14] <Kuleno> (( I wasn't aware I was easy to miss lol ))
[19:14] <Anika> (( Sorry. >.> ))
[19:14] * Nikolai wordlessly tosses a Meteorite into the chest of the
one closest.
[19:14] <GM|JonB> ROUND 1!
[19:14] * Yuki` yells out to Anika. "Get your weapons, now! We're
under attack!"
[19:15] <GM|JonB> ((Everyone 'cept Anika, who's busy getting geared
up.))
[19:15] * Anika reaches for her pack, which never leaves her side,
and pulls out her crossbow.
[19:15] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Knight1:15 Yuki:15 Knight2:10
Nikolai:10 Raoul:9 Kuleno:6
[19:15] * Raoul does. "So much for a bloodless retreat."
[19:16] <GM|JonB> The first chraging night draws his sword as he
charges Nikolai, only to see Kuleno behind him.  New target!
[19:16] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100
[19:16] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 65 ( Total: 65 )
[19:16] * Anika dashes over to join the rest of the group.
[19:16] <GM|JonB> !roll 30+1d12
[19:16] <Highwind> Error: Use a spellchecker and try again. -
   '30+1d12'
[19:16] <Kuleno> (( Your other 1d12+30 :P ))
[19:16] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d12+30
[19:16] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d12+30: 8 ( Total: 38 )
[19:16] <GM|JonB> ((Unless otherwise specified, Arm damage))
[19:17] <Kuleno> (( 138/163 HP ))
[19:17] <GM|JonB> Yuki!
[19:17] * Kuleno grunts.
[19:17] * Yuki` takes that momentary distraction to slash at Knight2.
((Normal attack))
[19:17] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[19:17] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 99 ( Total: 99 )
[19:17] <Yuki`> ((That's a bad sign.))
[19:17] <GM|JonB> ((Ouch.))
[19:17] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d6
[19:17] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d6: 2 ( Total: 2 )
[19:18] <GM|JonB> Yuki catches her knife on her clothes, and totally
misses!
[19:18] <GM|JonB> The other attacker decides Nikolai is rather
squishy, and makes him more so!
[19:18] * Ablogqwer has quit IRC (Read error: Connection reset by
peer)
[19:18] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100
[19:18] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 71 ( Total: 71 )
[19:18] <GM|JonB> Only to fail, as his attempt to rend Nikoali's
armor fails!
[19:19] <GM|JonB> Nikolai!  Raoul!  Kuleno!
[19:19] * Nikolai dodges the rather unusual strike, and takes the
opportunity to send that aforementioned Meteorite into the Knight's
chest!
[19:19] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[19:19] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 1d100: 36 ( Total: 36 )
[19:20] <GM|JonB> ((hit))
[19:20] <Nikolai> !roll 2d8+96
[19:20] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 2d8+96: 4, 2 ( Total: 102 )
[19:20] <Nikolai> ((No MArm Yay))
[19:20] <GM|JonB> The Meteorite punches a hole into the Knight, and
he goes down.  Hard.
[19:21] <Kuleno> (( Isn't Meteorite a random target? <.< ))
[19:21] <GM|JonB> ((No difference))
[19:21] <Nikolai> ((Naw, thats Meteor))
[19:21] <Raoul> ((may I? >.>))
[19:21] <GM|JonB> ((Go!))
[19:21] * Raoul brings his blade up quickly, and hits the unharmed
Knight square upside the head with the flat of his blade, channeling
the Ram Dao's spirit to stun his foe.
[19:22] <Raoul> ((stun, then exhaustion))
[19:22] <Raoul> !roll 2d100
[19:22] <Highwind>  Raoul - 2d100: 65, 95 ( Total: 160 )
[19:22] <GM|JonB> ((Meteorite was changed to random in exchange for
being ignoring M.Arm, last I checked))
[19:22] <Raoul> ((Dex of 79. No exhaustion, I do believe.))
[19:22] <GM|JonB> The Knight is stunned!
[19:23] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno!))
[19:23] <Raoul> ((I always wanted to try this move - I just don't see
it used terribly often.))
[19:24] * Raoul exhales. That went better than he'd hoped.
[19:24] <GM|JonB> ((Stun is vastly underrated.))
[19:25] <GM|JonB> ((KUUuu~~Len~OOOOHHHHH~~~~!))
[19:25] * Kuleno growls and then howls at the sky. A few seconds
pass, and then a cold mist settles around the Yeti, and when it
disperses, a beautiful woman is standing beside him. She looks to
Kuleno, who looks to the Knight he marked earlier. Without a word
exchanged, she sends a blast of ice at the poor soul!
[19:25] <Kuleno> (( Hey, it's my first Summon, let me have my fun. ))
[19:25] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[19:25] <Nikolai> "..."
[19:25] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 1d100: 93 ( Total: 93 )
[19:25] <Kuleno> (( Oh wait, auto-hit. ))
[19:25] <Nikolai> "... The Hell..."
[19:25] * Yuki` looks closely at what Kuleno did, then mutters to
herself "So that's what that looks like..."
[19:25] <Kuleno> !roll 2d10+78,125%
[19:25] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2d10+78,125%: 3, 3 ( Total: 105.0 )
[19:25] <Kuleno> (( Ice, M.ARM damage. ))
[19:25] <GM|JonB> ((Ladies and Gentelbeings, may I present SHIVA!))
[19:26] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[19:26] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 1d100: 50 ( Total: 50 )
[19:26] <Kuleno> (( 86, M.EVA% CoS to reduce the init by 50%, too. ))
[19:26] <Kuleno> (( Er, 25% ))
[19:26] * Raoul blinks, and stares. "That's... most impressive."
[19:26] <GM|JonB> The Knight is stunned, then frozen solid by the
power of the summon.  He falls over, cracking his form through and
through.
[19:27] <GM|JonB> ((Run/Fight/Other?))
[19:27] <Kuleno> (( Up to the group. Kuleno's gonna follow. ))
[19:27] * Kuleno grunts, his eyes having returned to the woman.
[19:28] * Yuki` looks at the mob running about, then to the
party. "We need to keep moving!"
[19:28] <Raoul> "While we charge further into this 'deep shit': Do we
have a specific plan? Or will we just run for our lives?"
[19:28] <Nikolai> "Yeah. Something's going on, and we need to find
out what."
[19:28] * Yuki` looks around for exits and/or survivors.
[19:29] * Nikolai looks about for the source of this disturbance.
[19:30] <GM|JonB> The only exit you see is the lack of enemies in the
general direction of where you came in earlier.  Otherwise, it's a
crowd of people whom you wouldn't invite for supper.
[19:30] * Raoul keeps his eye on the most immediate threat. Mages,
Knights - anyone look like a leader?
[19:31] <GM|JonB> ((Not that you can see.  But this is a target rich
environment, so to speak.))
[19:31] * Yuki` makes a gesture to the area with less enemies. "There-
  let's try to keep to the walls, so we don't get stabbed in the back."
[19:31] * Kuleno looks around, picking out targets. "End the threat,"
he grunts. The woman nods.
[19:32] * Anika sticks close to Kuleno.
[19:32] * Nikolai nods, and follows Yuki, eyes on the lookout for
something that may clue him in on what the fudge is going on.
[19:32] * Yuki` is just outside the door now, looking for some
thinner areas to break through if needed. She's heading a bit --->
that way, staying slose to the walls.
[19:32] * Raoul backs up to the wall. "I see no general in their
ranks, so to speak. I doubt we can rout them easily.
[19:32] <Raoul> *"
[19:33] <Kuleno> "Enough die, they stop."
[19:33] <GM|JonB> ((There are a *LOT* of them))
[19:33] <Nikolai> "Very true, Kuleno, but that may be a bit out of
our league."
[19:33] <Kuleno> (( Yea, but they're all one-shottable and I have a
healing Summon. :P ))
[19:34] <GM|JonB> The party moves towards one of the exits, a door
set into the wall that leads out into the warehouse field.
[19:34] * Ablogqwer has joined #i-demon
[19:34] <Yuki`> "One if us dies, then we're stopped too.  If they
start burning the place down, we're stopped.  We just need to keep
moving."
[19:35] <Raoul> ((Yes, but this is a mob. Do we really have enough
resources to survive about a hundred one-shots? Couple-a lucky hits,
we're significantly more boned than before.))
[19:35] * Kuleno keeps close to Nikolai. Apparently the knights are
attracted to him, so he's going to make sure they don't get to him.
[19:35] <GM|JonB> ((Party leaving then?))
[19:35] * Anika moves herself behind Kuleno.
[19:35] <Nikolai> "I agree. Its a bit early for last stands."
[19:35] * Yuki` is very much planning to leave, yes.
[19:36] <Anika> "Could we distract them somehow, and make a run for
it?"
[19:36] <GM|JonB> As you get closer to the door, you can see it begin
to open a crack, from the outside.
[19:36] <GM|JonB> "... it open?"
[19:37] * Nikolai makes a hasty "Shush" motion to the others.
[19:37] * Raoul looks at Kuleno. "I submit that our resident Summoner
can put on a light sh... hrm?"
[19:37] * Anika hmphs. She doesn't like being shushed.
[19:37] * Yuki` nods to Nikolai.
[19:37] <GM|JonB> The door opens, and a slew of more people move in,
most to join the mob.
[19:37] <Kuleno> (( I wasn't aware Summoners were common. But then,
my memory on those things is fuzzy. ))
[19:37] <GM|JonB> ((They're not.  Really not common.))
[19:38] <Kuleno> (( Remind me to smack Raoul later, then. <.< ))
[19:38] * Kuleno nods to the woman, who disappears into a mist. Best
to keep a low profile for now.
[19:38] <Raoul> ((My bad. >.>))
[19:38] <Nikolai> ((Do they notice us?))
[19:39] * Yuki` tries to keep hidden from the new people joining the
mob.
[19:40] <GM|JonB> But, as luck would have it, two of the newcomers
see you.  They gesture, and some of thir followers, as well as them,
move to attack!  "Hey!  Maybe a challenge!" one says as he draws his
sword.
[19:40] <Nikolai> "... Idiots."
[19:40] * Yuki` grumbles.
[19:40] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Yuki:22 Anika:19 Raoul:16 Kuleno:15
Knight2:11 MagicÿKnight:10 BlackÿCaller:10 Knight1:10 Nikolai:9
[19:40] * Kuleno grunts, unwilling to call on the woman so soon again.
[19:41] * Raoul sighs, but brings his weapon to bear.
[19:41] <GM|JonB> Yuki!
[19:41] * Yuki` decides to try taking out that Caller-type person
first. ((Normal attack))
[19:41] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[19:41] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 86 ( Total: 86 )
[19:41] <Yuki`> ((Holy hell.))
[19:42] <Yuki`> ((Does it hit?))
[19:42] <GM|JonB> ACC?))
[19:42] <Yuki`> ((125.))
[19:42] <GM|JonB> ((Hit!))
[19:42] <Yuki`> !roll 1d6+60
[19:42] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d6+60: 3 ( Total: 63 )
[19:43] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[19:43] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 8 ( Total: 8 )
[19:43] <Yuki`> ((Silence Touch hits.))
[19:43] <GM|JonB> ((Noted))
[19:43] <GM|JonB> ((Anika!))
[19:43] * Yuki` manages to give the Black Caller a bit of a slash
around the throat.
[19:44] * Anika readies her crossbow and takes a shot at the Caller.
[19:44] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[19:44] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 52 ( Total: 52 )
[19:44] <GM|JonB> ((hit!))
[19:45] <Anika> !roll 2d8+80
[19:45] <Highwind>  Anika - 2d8+80: 8, 5 ( Total: 93 )
[19:45] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[19:45] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 47 ( Total: 47 )
[19:46] <Yuki`> ((Oh, Crap, forgot Sensor on Yuki's weapon. >_<))
[19:46] <Anika> (( Oh, nevermind that. ))
[19:46] <GM|JonB> ((Raoul!  Kuleno!))
[19:46] <Raoul> ((>.>))
[19:46] * Raoul smacks the Magic Knight upside the head with the flat
of his blade, channeling the Ram Dao's spirit through the metal and
into his foe's nervous system.
[19:46] <Raoul> ((stun, exhaustion.))
[19:46] <Raoul> !roll 2d100
[19:46] <Highwind>  Raoul - 2d100: 34, 95 ( Total: 129 )
[19:46] <Raoul> ((schwing!))
[19:46] <Kuleno> (( What's stun do? ))
[19:47] <Raoul> ((Nulls their next action entirely.))
[19:47] <GM|JonB> ((Miss next action))
[19:47] <Raoul> ((Makes 'em stand there and take it like a straw man.
^_^))
[19:47] * Kuleno growls low in his throat and, though he doesn't wish
to, calls upon the strange woman again. As she appears, a gust of icy
wind strikes at the second knight!
[19:47] <GM|JonB> ((You Exausted?))
[19:47] <Kuleno> (( Knight2, to be clear. ))
[19:48] <Raoul> ((Nope. 17 or below.))
[19:48] <Kuleno> !roll 2d10+78,125%
[19:48] <GM|JonB> ((noted))
[19:48] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2d10+78,125%: 1, 4 ( Total: 103.75 )
[19:48] <GM|JonB> The Knight goes down!
[19:48] * Yuki` blinks as she finds something out. "The Black... mage-
like guy is pretty tough, and has a lot of MP, but hates Ice!"
((192/320 HP, 180 MP))
[19:50] <GM|JonB> The Black Caller looks very annoyed, and is really
annoyed at the Ice Woman.  He reaches for the sky and roars
out; "Fire to scour the soil!  Ifrit!"
[19:50] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100
[19:50] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 76 ( Total: 76 )
[19:51] <GM|JonB> From the sky, a demonic fire monster appears (you
know who!), and slams to the ground infront of Kuleno/Shiva, and
takes a massive swipe with his burning claws!
[19:51] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d8+60
[19:51] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d8+60: 8 ( Total: 68 )
[19:51] <Yuki`> "...son of a... he's a caller?"
[19:51] <Kuleno> (( ... Did Silence not stick? ))
[19:51] <GM|JonB> ((Nope))
[19:51] <Kuleno> (( God dammit, I would not have Summoned if I had
known that. ))
[19:51] <Kuleno> (( >.< ))
[19:51] <Yuki`> ((I guess there's immunity.))
[19:51] * Anika looks in awe at the two Aeons.
[19:51] <Kuleno> (( TELL US THESE THINGS. ))
[19:51] <Kuleno> (( Also, Calls have a 6 CT. ))
[19:52] <Raoul> ((I'd have stunned 'em if I'd known that. But oh
well. On with the carnage!))
[19:52] <GM|JonB> ((This isn't a Call.  That would be pwnage.  It's a
Power-Strike d8, Fire elemental))
[19:52] <Kuleno> (( ... Ah. ))
[19:52] <Nikolai> ((Yes please, information would be nice.))
[19:52] <GM|JonB> ((I'm the GM!  I'm not supposed to give extra
info!))
[19:53] <Kuleno> (( ... I thought Silence stuck. Even in the e-games,
you'd know if an enemy were Immune to an attack. ))
[19:53] <GM|JonB> ((mea culpa.  In return, don't calculate the W:Fire
Shiva has for this attack.))
[19:54] <Kuleno> (( I'll take the damage, 'cause lord knows I have
enough HP. But damn boy, is the Caller getting his ass beat next
round. ))
[19:54] <Raoul> ((I'll get the mop if you cause the stain.))
[19:54] <GM|JonB> The last Knight takes heart at the sight of Ifrit,
and charges at Raoul!
[19:55] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 1d12+30
[19:55] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 91 ( Total: 91 )
[19:55] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d12+30: 9 ( Total: 39 )
[19:55] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 130
[19:55] <GM|JonB> ((Whiff!))
[19:55] <Raoul> ((EVA 17. That enough to dodge?))
[19:55] <Kuleno> (( 224/326 HP, 111/141 MP ))
[19:55] <Raoul> ((whoo!))
[19:55] <GM|JonB> ((barely))
[19:55] * Raoul parries. "No."
[19:55] <GM|JonB> (Nikoali!))
[19:56] * Nikolai holds his hands out towards the Caller, trying to
make the air denser around him in the hope of slowing him down. YAWN!
[19:56] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[19:56] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 1d100: 41 ( Total: 41 )
[19:56] <Nikolai> ((84% CoS))
[19:56] <Nikolai> ((Agi Down (6)))
[19:57] <GM|JonB> ((Not immune to that!))
[19:57] <GM|JonB> With a quick break in the battle, one the fallen
knight is replaced by a similar person!
[19:58] <GM|JonB> ROUND 2!
[19:58] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Yuki:21 Anika:21 BlackCaller:16
Knight2:15 Raoul:15 Nikolai:14 Magic_Knight:12 Knight1:12 Kuleno:9
[19:58] <GM|JonB> ((Yuki!  Anika!))
[19:58] * Yuki` is going to try a slice at the Magic Knight's throat,
this time. ((Normal attack))
[19:58] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[19:58] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 58 ( Total: 58 )
[19:58] <GM|JonB> ((hit!))
[19:59] <Yuki`> !roll 1d6+60
[19:59] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d6+60: 5 ( Total: 65 )
[19:59] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[19:59] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 73 ( Total: 73 )
[19:59] <Yuki`> ((Silence Touch misses))
[20:00] <GM|JonB> ((Anika!))
[20:00] * Yuki` looks uncertain. "That Magic knight is tough, really
tough!"
[20:00] * Anika reaches into her pack, and pulls out a strange
looking contraption. She pulls a lever, and it fires a poison-infused
dart at each of the enemies in rapid succession.
[20:00] <Yuki`> (( 1008/1056HP, 126 MP))
[20:00] <Anika> !roll 3d100
[20:00] <Highwind>  Anika - 3d100: 83, 13, 94 ( Total: 190 )
[20:00] <GM|JonB> ((There's 4 enemies))
[20:01] <Anika> (( 60, EVA CoS of Poison (U). ))
[20:01] <Kuleno> (( Did I not KO Knight 2? ))
[20:01] <GM|JonB> "Little pinprick like that?  Ain't gonna feel that."
[20:01] <Nikolai> ((... 1056 HP?))
[20:01] <GM|JonB> ((You did.  He got replaced.))
[20:01] <Raoul> ((Impressive that.))
[20:01] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:01] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 49 ( Total: 49 )
[20:01] <GM|JonB> ((Call your target order next time, Anika, so I
know who got hot with what.))
[20:02] <Anika> (( In order of init, I suppose. ))
[20:02] <GM|JonB> ((Check))
[20:02] <Anika> (( Immune? ))
[20:02] <GM|JonB> ((Nope))
[20:03] <GM|JonB> Both knights feel the sting of needles, and turn
quite green.
[20:03] <Kuleno> (( ... Is that HP correct? 1,008? ))
[20:03] <GM|JonB> ((Yep.))
[20:03] * Anika looks quite smug. "Ha."
[20:03] <GM|JonB> (( 1008/1056))
[20:04] <Kuleno> (( ... I suggest we run. ))
[20:04] <Kuleno> (( Or keep his ass stunned. ))
[20:04] <GM|JonB> The Caller doesn't look to good, and tries to
return the favour to Anika!  "Poison!"
[20:04] <Yuki`> ((Sounds like a pretty decent plan I think.))
[20:04] <Raoul> ((Working on it, or something quite similar.))
[20:04] <GM|JonB> !roll 2d100 d8+40
[20:04] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 2d100: 23, 35 ( Total: 58 )
[20:04] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - d8+40: 8 ( Total: 48 )
[20:04] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 106
[20:05] <GM|JonB> Sorry, That was supposed to be D8+30
[20:05] <GM|JonB> ((You only take 38, M.Arm damage))
[20:05] <GM|JonB> ((And Anika is Poisoned, if she isn't immune.))
[20:05] <Anika> (( She is not. ))
[20:05] <Anika> "Ugh...I don't feel too good."
[20:06] <GM|JonB> The new Knight, groggy, tries to make a large dent
in Raoul's armor.
[20:06] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100
[20:06] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 21 ( Total: 21 )
[20:06] <Anika> (( 124/129 HP. ))
[20:06] <GM|JonB> ((Raoul is Armor Break(4)!))
[20:07] <GM|JonB> ((Raoul!  Nikolai!))
[20:07] * Yuki` looks at that hit, then glances at the exit.
[20:07] * Raoul was busy preparing to channel his Ram Dao's spirit in
a stronger form, and was unable to parry that blow to his armor. He
refuses to let his concentration fade, though, as he draws out the
Azragi symbol for 'sleep' between himself and the Magic Knight.
[20:07] <Raoul> ((sleep, exhaust.))
[20:07] <Raoul> !roll 2d100
[20:07] <Highwind>  Raoul - 2d100: 97, 91 ( Total: 188 )
[20:08] <GM|JonB> ((Miss, No Exaustion.))
[20:08] <Raoul> ((Okay, that didn't do anything at all.))
[20:08] <GM|JonB> ((Nikolai!))
[20:08] * Raoul 's concentration was screwed up by the attack. Really.
[20:08] * Nikolai decides that he rather dislikes the Caller, and
hits him with a Meteorite.
[20:08] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[20:08] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 1d100: 76 ( Total: 76 )
[20:08] <GM|JonB> ((Hit))
[20:08] <Nikolai> !roll 2d8+96
[20:08] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 2d8+96: 5, 5 ( Total: 106 )
[20:09] <GM|JonB> The Caller takes it hard, but doesn't go down!
[20:10] <GM|JonB> The Magic Knight seeing Raoul's tricks, gathers
powere about his sword.  "Not so fast!" he cries as he attempts to
hit the native of Biet!
[20:10] <Raoul> ((This is going to suck.))
[20:10] <GM|JonB> !roll 2d100 d10+48
[20:10] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 2d100: 8, 87 ( Total: 95 )
[20:10] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - d10+48: 10 ( Total: 58 )
[20:10] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 153
[20:10] <GM|JonB> ((Be so very glad he can't Crit.))
[20:11] <Raoul> ((Like a gaping chest wound, if - ohthankyoujebus))
[20:11] <GM|JonB> The hit is solid, and true, but the magic fails to
connect!
[20:11] <GM|JonB> The other Knight takes a simple swing at Shiva!
[20:12] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 1d10+30
[20:12] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 4 ( Total: 4 )
[20:12] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d10+30: 10 ( Total: 40 )
[20:12] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 44
[20:12] <GM|JonB> ((*blink*)))
[20:12] <Raoul> ((...))
[20:12] <GM|JonB> ((WHY DIDN'T I GIVE YOU GUYS THE ABILITY TO
CRIT!?!?!?!?!?!?))
[20:12] <Anika> (( STOP TAKING ALL THE GOOD ROLLS. ))
[20:13] <GM|JonB> ((Double Crits for max damage...  Never
happened....  Your GM starts sobbing))
[20:13] <Raoul> ((114/155 HP, by your mercy, m'lord.))
[20:13] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno))
[20:14] * Kuleno frowns and nods to the lady, pointing to the Caller.
[Heavenly Strike]
[20:14] <Kuleno> (( W: Ice? ))
[20:14] <GM|JonB> ((Yep))
[20:14] <Kuleno> !roll 2d10+78,175%
[20:14] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2d10+78,175%: 9, 3 ( Total: 157.5 )
[20:15] <GM|JonB> And tha Caller is frozen solid, before he has the
chance to react.
[20:15] <GM|JonB> ((Statusses!))
[20:16] <Anika> (( 109/129 HP. ))
[20:16] <GM|JonB> The Knights, and Anika each take poison Damage, and
The Arm Break goes to 3.
[20:17] <GM|JonB> ROUND 3!
[20:17] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Yuki:19 Anika:19 Magic_Knight:15
Knight1:13 Nikolai:13 Raoul:9 Kuleno:8
[20:17] <GM|JonB> ((Yuki and Anika first!  Again.))
[20:17] * Yuki` will try stabbing that Knight1 now. ((Normal attack))
[20:17] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[20:17] <Nikolai> ((Those girls are fast.))
[20:17] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 56 ( Total: 56 )
[20:17] <GM|JonB> ((hit))
[20:17] <Yuki`> !roll 1d6+60
[20:17] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d6+60: 6 ( Total: 66 )
[20:17] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[20:17] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 12 ( Total: 12 )
[20:18] <Yuki`> ((Silence hits, and Sensor.))
[20:18] <GM|JonB> ((Not immune))
[20:18] * Ablogqwer has quit IRC (Read error: Connection reset by
peer)
[20:19] * Anika pulls out a Sleep Bolt, and aims her crossbow at the
Magic Knight.
[20:19] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:19] <Yuki`> "The knight's hurt badly!"
[20:19] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 21 ( Total: 21 )
[20:19] <Yuki`> ((28/80 HP))
[20:19] <GM|JonB> ((I really need to take the party's abilities into
account next time.))
[20:19] <GM|JonB> ((Hit!))
[20:19] <Anika> !roll 2d8+80 1d100
[20:19] <Highwind>  Anika - 2d8+80: 2, 5 ( Total: 87 )
[20:19] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 44 ( Total: 44 )
[20:19] <Highwind> Anika - Total: 131
[20:19] <Anika> (( Sleep misses. :( ))
[20:20] <GM|JonB> The Magic Knight catches the bolt in the meat of on
of his arms.  "That hurt!  Darkness take you!"
[20:21] <GM|JonB> !roll 2d100 1d10+48
[20:21] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 2d100: 2, 81 ( Total: 83 )
[20:21] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d10+48: 2 ( Total: 50 )
[20:21] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 133
[20:21] <GM|JonB> ((...  ANOTHER CRIT?))
[20:21] <GM|JonB> He Hits Anika, Hard, but once again, the Magic
fails to take.
[20:22] <Anika> (( 92/129. ))
[20:22] <GM|JonB> The remaining Knight doesn't look like he want's to
hit an old woman like Yuki, but she has been trying to cut throats
lately.
[20:22] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 30+1d12
[20:22] <Highwind> Error: Use a spellchecker and try again. -
   '30+1d12'
[20:22] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 1d12+30
[20:22] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 69 ( Total: 69 )
[20:22] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d12+30: 2 ( Total: 32 )
[20:23] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 101
[20:23] <GM|JonB> ((hits))
[20:23] <Yuki`> ((HP: 107/119, SoS: 29))
[20:23] * Yuki` gets a pretty nasty hit. "Ow!"
[20:23] <GM|JonB> *As this happens, the second Knight grabs the body
of the frozen caller, and makes a break for it, depending on the
others to cover.
[20:23] <GM|JonB> ((Nikolai!  Raoul!  Kuleno!))
[20:24] <Kuleno> (( I am so gonna blast the Knight. I got him
covered. ))
[20:24] <Kuleno> (( Kill other things. ))
[20:24] <Raoul> ((If by 'kill' you mean 'attempt to sleep again',
sure.))
[20:24] <Kuleno> (( Unless the GM says he's gone, in which case >:O ))
[20:24] <GM|JonB> ((No can target the running Knight.  He's outta
there, that's why I didn't roll an Init))
[20:24] * Nikolai casts Speed on Yuki. He's enjoying her propensity
to cut throats.
[20:24] <Nikolai> ((Agi Up 6))
[20:25] <Kuleno> (( ... But he did have an init. Of 13, to be
precise. o.o ))
[20:25] <Raoul> ((...although, if the MK is gonna be the last one
around, sleeping him may not be so great...))
[20:25] <GM|JonB> ((I tagged him for 'as stuff happens'))
[20:25] <GM|JonB> ((moving along, Yuki is faster!  Raoul!  Kuleno!))
[20:26] * Raoul brings his blade to bear on the Magic Knight
again. "If you refuse to sleep, then I suggest you simply pause!" *ka-
thwang!*
[20:26] <Raoul> ((stun, exhaust))
[20:26] <Raoul> !roll 2d100
[20:26] <Highwind>  Raoul - 2d100: 14, 75 ( Total: 89 )
[20:26] <Raoul> ((schwing.))
[20:27] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno!))
[20:28] * Kuleno growls, and the woman sends a blast of chilly air at
the remaining Knight. She did not seem pleased the Caller got away.
[Blizzard]
[20:28] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[20:28] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 1d100: 16 ( Total: 16 )
[20:28] <Kuleno> (( W: Ice? ))
[20:28] <GM|JonB> ((Nope.  Knight, or Magic Knight?))
[20:28] <Kuleno> !roll 1d8+52,125%
[20:28] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 1d8+52,125%: 3 ( Total: 68.75 )
[20:28] <Kuleno> (( I thought only the Magic Knight was left. ))
[20:28] <Kuleno> (( Since the only Knight on the init ran like a
mofo. ))
[20:28] <GM|JonB> ((Nope.  Still one in there.  The runnign Knight, I
didn't roll for.))
[20:29] <Kuleno> (( Retcon that to kill the ever-loving crap out of
the remaining Knight, then. Things are confusing here. ))
[20:29] <Kuleno> !roll 2d10+78,125%
[20:29] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2d10+78,125%: 9, 2 ( Total: 111.25 )
[20:29] <GM|JonB> ((There are two knights, refreshed on each status
phase if one or both are dead.))
[20:30] <Kuleno> ... That's a helluva lotta HP.
[20:30] <Kuleno> (( ... Even OOC, for that matter. ))
[20:30] <Kuleno> (( I'd suggest we make Escape checks, but the CoS
for those are beyond balls. ))
[20:30] <GM|JonB> Another lull in the action, and another pair of
knights moves in to replace the one who ran away, and dead.  You can
also see the Administration building on fire!
[20:30] <GM|JonB> Round 4!
[20:31] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Yuki:18 Anika:16 Knight2:15
Nikolai:15 Raoul:15 Magic_Knight:13 Knight1:13 Kuleno:6
[20:31] <Raoul> ((I did it once. And I still think we can take the
magic knight. The question is, is it a good idea to?))
[20:31] <Kuleno> (( I'm already down to 81 MP. Those Heavenly Strikes
take a lot of MP. And the Knights do a fair amount of damage. ))
[20:31] <GM|JonB> ((Oops, Statuses!))
[20:31] * Yuki` grimaces. "More knights."
[20:31] <Kuleno> (( Dismiss Shiva in the Status Phase. ))
[20:31] <GM|JonB> ((I'm not gonna kill you.  This is like 300,
without the TPK))
[20:32] * Yuki` looks towards the exit, just to make sure its clear,
then tries to knife the Magic Knight.
[20:32] <GM|JonB> ((Anika takes poison damage))
[20:32] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[20:32] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 51 ( Total: 51 )
[20:32] <Yuki`> !roll 1d6+60
[20:32] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d6+60: 5 ( Total: 65 )
[20:32] <Anika> (( 83/129 HP. ))
[20:32] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[20:32] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 44 ( Total: 44 )
[20:33] <Raoul> ((brb))
[20:33] <GM|JonB> ((Yuki Hits, and Silence goes off?))
[20:33] <Yuki`> ((Misses. Only Silence Touch.))
[20:34] <GM|JonB> ((*nod*  Anika!))
[20:34] * Anika fires her crossbow at the Magic Knight.
[20:34] <Anika> (( Sleep Bolt. ))
[20:34] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:34] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 89 ( Total: 89 )
[20:34] <GM|JonB> ((hit))
[20:34] <Anika> !roll 2d8+80 1d100
[20:34] <Highwind>  Anika - 2d8+80: 4, 5 ( Total: 89 )
[20:35] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 48 ( Total: 48 )
[20:35] <Highwind> Anika - Total: 137
[20:35] <Raoul> ((back))
[20:35] <Anika> (( GF that roll. ))
[20:35] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:35] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 46 ( Total: 46 )
[20:35] <Anika> (( DAMMIT. ))
[20:36] <GM|JonB> Knight2 attempts to batter down Yuki's Defenses!
[20:36] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100
[20:36] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 58 ( Total: 58 )
[20:36] <GM|JonB> ((And barely gives her Armor Break (4!) ))
[20:36] <Yuki`> "Damn it!"
[20:36] <GM|JonB> ((Nikolai!  Raoul!))
[20:37] * Nikolai decides that he's had enough of a certain Magic
Knight. Meteorite!
[20:37] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[20:37] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 1d100: 35 ( Total: 35 )
[20:37] <GM|JonB> ((hit))
[20:37] <Nikolai> !roll 2d8+96
[20:37] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 2d8+96: 7, 1 ( Total: 104 )
[20:37] <Nikolai> ((Do remember my CoM))
[20:38] <GM|JonB> (( One.  Thousand.  HP.  This is a bruise.))
[20:38] <GM|JonB> ((Raoul!))
[20:38] <Raoul> ((before I act: can I get a confirmation that the
MK's next action is not going to happen, thanks to last round's Naom
Dao to the head?))
[20:38] <GM|JonB> ((Yep))
[20:38] <Raoul> ((groovy.))
[20:38] * Raoul finally uses his sword for actualy swording!
[20:38] <Raoul> ((against the MK))
[20:39] <Raoul> !roll 1d100
[20:39] <Highwind>  Raoul - 1d100: 31 ( Total: 31 )
[20:39] <Raoul> !roll 2d10+66
[20:39] <Highwind>  Raoul - 2d10+66: 5, 7 ( Total: 78 )
[20:39] <GM|JonB> The other Knight takes a stab at Nikolai!
[20:39] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 1d12+30
[20:39] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 76 ( Total: 76 )
[20:40] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d12+30: 8 ( Total: 38 )
[20:40] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 114
[20:40] <GM|JonB> ((Hit!))
[20:40] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno!))
[20:40] * Kuleno frowns and once again calls upon the power of Shiva.
He was hoping there'd be no more of the Knights. [Heavenly Strike]
[20:41] <Kuleno> !roll 2d10+78,125%
[20:41] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2d10+78,125%: 1, 7 ( Total: 107.5 )
[20:41] <GM|JonB> ((Against whom?))
[20:42] <Kuleno> (( Knight 1, I guess. Not that it matters. ))
[20:42] <GM|JonB> He goes down!
[20:42] <GM|JonB> ((Statuses!))
[20:43] <Raoul> ((How's the world looking? Still on fire?))
[20:43] <Anika> (( 75/129 HP. ))
[20:43] <Yuki`> ((I think Yuki's AGI Up is at... (4), right?))
[20:44] <GM|JonB> ((Yep.  Armor Breajk for you is at 3, and for
Raoul, 1))
[20:44] <Raoul> ((mmhm.))
[20:44] <GM|JonB> Another lull, and you can see there's only a couple
more knight hanging in the back, waiting for thier chance to join the
fray.
[20:44] <GM|JonB> Round 5!
[20:44] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Yuki:20 Anika:17 Nikolai:16 Kuleno:14
Magic_Knight:13 Raoul:12 Knight2:11
[20:44] * Yuki` throws an antidote to Anika, to get rid of that
poison on her.
[20:44] <Raoul> ((Oh dear, he'll get a turn in.))
[20:45] <Anika> "Thanks!"
[20:45] * Anika returns to a normal color.
[20:45] <GM|JonB> ((Unless Anika Sleeps him.))
[20:45] * Yuki` nods and goes back to looking for a chance to attack.
[20:46] <GM|JonB> ((Anika!))
[20:46] <Kuleno> (( I can delay his init, possibly. ))
[20:46] * Anika fires another Sleep Bolt at the Magic Knight.
[20:46] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:46] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 96 ( Total: 96 )
[20:46] <GM|JonB> ((Miss!))
[20:46] <GM|JonB> The Magic Knight grabs the bolt in mid flight, and
drops it, grinning!
[20:47] <GM|JonB> Nikolai!
[20:47] * Nikolai casts Speed on Raoul!
[20:47] <Raoul> ((...Is that AGI-Up?))
[20:47] <SolarGM_Django|Aidric> ((Yes.))
[20:48] <Raoul> ((And if so, would that +2 Init kick in instantly, or
next round?))
[20:48] <Yuki`> ((It should be next round, like Haste and Slow.))
[20:48] <GM|JonB> ((Next round))
[20:48] <Raoul> ((Aw.))
[20:48] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno!))
[20:48] <Raoul> (('cause +2 is all I need here to stun the MK again.
Poo.))
[20:48] <Nikolai> ((It buffs Dex, if I recall!))
[20:48] <Yuki`> ((Indeed it does.))
[20:49] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno goes for the Delay?))
[20:49] * Kuleno growls and turns his attention - andd the lady's -
to the Magic Knight. [Heavenly Strike]
[20:50] <Kuleno> !roll 2d10+78,125%
[20:50] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2d10+78,125%: 3, 1 ( Total: 102.5 )
[20:50] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[20:50] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 1d100: 69 ( Total: 69 )
[20:50] <Kuleno> (( 86, M.EVA% ))
[20:50] <Raoul> ((Oooh. E'en better then!))
[20:50] <GM|JonB> ((Delay misses!))
[20:51] <GM|JonB> The Magic Knight looks like he really wants to do
something harmful to you, but has to settle for swinging his sword at
Shiva.
[20:51] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 1d10+48
[20:51] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 43 ( Total: 43 )
[20:51] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d10+48: 9 ( Total: 57 )
[20:51] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 100
[20:51] <GM|JonB> ((Hit!  Raoul!))
[20:51] <Raoul> ((w/AGI-Up, Dex is at 98.))
[20:51] <Kuleno> The woman smiles grimly at the blow, making no sound.
[20:51] <Kuleno> (( 167/326 HP ))
[20:52] * Raoul swings his blade again, flat-first, at the Magic
Knight. "When will you learn - will it require brain damage first?"
[20:52] <Raoul> !roll 2d100
[20:52] <Highwind>  Raoul - 2d100: 97, 56 ( Total: 153 )
[20:52] <Raoul> ((gr.))
[20:52] <GM|JonB> ((Doesn't stop a botch!))
[20:53] <Raoul> ((I'unno if Minuechi can botch, but unless he has no
EVA whatsoever, whiff.))
[20:53] <Kuleno> (( Can't botch on that, I believe. However, I think
he has more than 1 EVA. <.< ))
[20:53] <Raoul> ((but no exhaustion yet!))
[20:53] <GM|JonB> The last Knight takes a swing at Shiva, being all
big and scary looking!
[20:53] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 1d12+30
[20:53] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 96 ( Total: 96 )
[20:53] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d12+30: 4 ( Total: 34 )
[20:53] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 130
[20:53] <GM|JonB> ((And he botches as well.))
[20:53] <GM|JonB> Statuses tick down!
[20:53] <Kuleno> The lady simply stands there as the blade passes
through her.
[20:54] <GM|JonB> ((Arm Break on Raoul wears off, and on Yuki goes
down to 2.))
[20:55] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Yuki:20 Anika:17 Magic_Knight:16
Raoul:16 Knight2:12 Kuleno:12 Nikolai:9
[20:55] <GM|JonB> ROUND 6!
[20:55] * Yuki` is going to try attacking Knight2.
[20:55] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[20:55] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 53 ( Total: 53 )
[20:55] <GM|JonB> hit
[20:55] <Yuki`> !roll 1d6+60
[20:55] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d6+60: 6 ( Total: 66 )
[20:55] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[20:55] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 85 ( Total: 85 )
[20:55] <Yuki`> ((Silence misses.))
[20:56] <GM|JonB> Anika!
[20:56] <Yuki`> "Now this night is badly wounded, too."
[20:56] * Anika continues her efforts to put the Magic Knight to sleep
[20:56] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:56] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 100 ( Total: 100 )
[20:56] <Anika> (( WTH. ))
[20:56] <GM|JonB> ((Roll 1d100 again))
[20:57] <GM|JonB> ((You botch this second roll, you shoot yourself.))
[20:57] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:57] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 85 ( Total: 85 )
[20:57] <GM|JonB> That bolt goes nowhere!
[20:57] * Newbie_X has joined #I-DEMON
[20:57] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Newbie_X
[20:57] <GM|JonB> The Magic knight takes pity on the poor girl who
can't shoot straight, and takes a swing at Raoul!
[20:58] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 1d10+48
[20:58] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 96 ( Total: 96 )
[20:58] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d10+48: 7 ( Total: 55 )
[20:58] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 151
[20:58] <GM|JonB> ((And he blows it too!))
[20:58] <Raoul> ((whiff?))
[20:58] * Yuki` has quit IRC (Killed (NickServ (GHOST command used by
Newbie_X)))
[20:58] * Newbie_X is now known as Yuki`
[20:59] * Raoul blocks the attack with his own blade, and grins. "If
you wish to continue dancing, then I accept. But you haven't been
able to take many steps tonight."
[20:59] <GM|JonB> "Prove it!" he sneers
[20:59] <Raoul> ((Shall I continue stunning him?))
[20:59] <Raoul> ((Or does anyone have any brighter ideas?))
[20:59] <GM|JonB> ((Are you the stunning kind of guy?))
[21:00] <Nikolai> ((Apparently!))
[21:00] <Anika> (( Kill him ded! ))
[21:00] <Yuki`> ((All I can do right now is attack, so Stunning is
probably the better move.))
[21:00] <Kuleno> (( Stun him. ))
[21:00] * Raoul clocks the Knight upside the head with the hilt of
his blade in a complex twisting maneuver, channeling the spirits down
through the pommel.
[21:00] <Raoul> !roll 2d100
[21:00] <Highwind>  Raoul - 2d100: 37, 100 ( Total: 137 )
[21:01] <Raoul> ((schwing!))
[21:01] <GM|JonB> ((Stunned!))
[21:01] * Raoul 's grin remains, wider than ever. "Proven."
[21:01] <GM|JonB> The other Knight tries to hack at Shiva!
[21:01] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100 1d12+30
[21:01] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 46 ( Total: 46 )
[21:01] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d12+30: 12 ( Total: 42 )
[21:01] <Highwind> GM|JonB - Total: 88
[21:01] <GM|JonB> ((Hit!))
[21:02] * Kuleno growls and Shiva envelops the Knight within her,
letting him pass through before he falls out behind her, frozen to
death. [Heavenly Strike]
[21:02] <Kuleno> !roll 2d10+78,125%
[21:02] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2d10+78,125%: 6, 1 ( Total: 106.25 )
[21:02] <Kuleno> (( 'cause we all know it's coming. ))
[21:02] <GM|JonB> ((dead.))
[21:02] <GM|JonB> *The other background Knights all break and run!
[21:02] <GM|JonB> ((brb.  Bathroom!))
[21:02] * Nikolai sighs.
[21:03] <Raoul> ((So... Now we just have the Magic Knight to worry
about? Plus the fire and destruction.))
[21:04] <Yuki`> ((I believe so, yes.))
[21:04] <GM|JonB> ((Statuses!))
[21:05] <GM|JonB> ((Arm Break on Yuki rolls down, as does the MK's
silence.))
[21:05] <GM|JonB> ((Round 7!))
[21:05] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Yuki:25 Raoul:20 Nikolai:18 Anika:16
Magic_Knight:10 Kuleno:8
[21:05] <Kuleno> (( Dismiss Shiva. ))
[21:05] <GM|JonB> ((Check))
[21:05] * Yuki` keeps with the stabbity, having few other options.
[21:06] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[21:06] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 89 ( Total: 89 )
[21:06] <Yuki`> ((Hit?))
[21:06] <GM|JonB> ((yep))
[21:06] <Yuki`> !roll 1d6+60
[21:06] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d6+60: 6 ( Total: 66 )
[21:06] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[21:06] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 19 ( Total: 19 )
[21:06] <Yuki`> ((Silence hits.))
[21:06] <Yuki`> ((Also, Sensor.))
[21:07] <Raoul> ((hrm.))
[21:07] * Yuki` frowns. "He still has a lot left in him." ((604 HP,
106 MP.))
[21:08] <Raoul> ((I'm debating throwing Regen up, but I guess it's
worth it more to stabify. Unless someone'd really benefit from
Regen?))
[21:08] <Kuleno> (( Stabify or Stun. ))
[21:08] <Raoul> ((Ah, Namakura' Regen is Single-target. nvm.))
[21:08] <Yuki`> ((Agreed with Kuleno.))
[21:09] * Raoul stabs the helpless Magic Knight - he has no qualms
fighting an opponent who, literally, asked for it.
[21:09] <Raoul> !roll 1d100
[21:09] <Highwind>  Raoul - 1d100: 91 ( Total: 91 )
[21:09] <GM|JonB> ((Hit!))
[21:09] <Raoul> !roll 2d10+66
[21:09] <Highwind>  Raoul - 2d10+66: 8, 7 ( Total: 81 )
[21:09] <Raoul> ((if that hits.))
[21:09] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno!  Nikolai!))
[21:09] <GM|JonB> ((If should.  Agi-Up, remember?))
[21:09] <Anika> (( ? ))
[21:09] <Anika> (( Nikolai, Anika. ))
[21:10] <GM|JonB> ((roght, right.  But the MK is stunned anyways, and
can't do anything!
[21:10] * Nikolai Meteorites the MK.
[21:10] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[21:10] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 1d100: 93 ( Total: 93 )
[21:10] <GM|JonB> ((Macc?))
[21:11] <GM|JonB> ((n/m.  HIT!))
[21:11] <Kuleno> (( I can't wait to see the sheet on this guy. ))
[21:11] <Nikolai> !roll 2d8+96
[21:11] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 2d8+96: 7, 6 ( Total: 109 )
[21:11] <GM|JonB> ((It's not that impressive.  I just wanted a tank.))
[21:12] <GM|JonB> Anika!  Kuleno!
[21:12] <Raoul> ((You got a brick wall.))
[21:12] <Raoul> ((^_^))
[21:12] * Anika once again powers up her invention, firing a dart at
the Magic Knight.
[21:12] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[21:12] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 65 ( Total: 65 )
[21:12] <Anika> (( ...Dammit. ))
[21:12] <GM|JonB> The dart bounces harmlessly off his armor!
[21:13] * Kuleno sends out a small shockwave from his staff at the
Magic Knight!
[21:13] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[21:13] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 1d100: 82 ( Total: 82 )
[21:13] <GM|JonB> ((Acc?))
[21:13] <Kuleno> (( 99 ))
[21:13] <GM|JonB> ((miss!))
[21:14] <GM|JonB> As you all pile drive onto the Magic Knight, who is
all that stands between you and the door, you hear a thunderous
explosion from behind you!  It seeld
[21:14] <GM|JonB> *It seems as though someone has set off explosives
in the middle of the Cradle, and you can see the ribs sway and fall
into the fire!
[21:15] <GM|JonB> ((Statusses tick down!))
[21:15] <Yuki`> "..."
[21:15] <Yuki`> "Oh, HELL."
[21:15] <Kuleno> "It can be rebuilt.  We cannot."
[21:15] <Nikolai> "Hmm."
[21:16] <GM|JonB> ((/me stuffs the 6 Million Dollar Man quote back
down his throat.))
[21:16] * Raoul looks over. "Indeed. But I suggest we rethink our
strategy towards that end - the mob seems to have evaporated."
[21:16] <Raoul> ((I assume it's evaporated, at least, since the last
few Knights are gone.))
[21:16] <GM|JonB> ((Oh no, it's still there.  Just not here.))
[21:16] <GM|JonB> ((They're all busy with the looting and the mayhem,
and not over here swarming you all!))
[21:17] * Anika is quite used to the sound of explosions, having made
many herself, and appears largely unfazed.
[21:17] <GM|JonB> Battle order: Yuki:23 Nikolai:15 Kuleno:15 Anika:12
Magic_Knight:11 Raoul:11
[21:17] * Yuki` attacks. Again. Yeah.
[21:17] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[21:17] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 100 ( Total: 100 )
[21:17] <Raoul> ((Well, that's nice of them, taking the stuff instead
of throwing themselves on our swords.))
[21:17] <Kuleno> (( It's at 500 HP or so. We'll take it down in a
round or two. ))
[21:17] * Yuki` also botches horribly.
[21:17] <GM|JonB> ((Roll again.  Botch to hit self.))
[21:18] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[21:18] <Highwind>  Yuki` - 1d100: 54 ( Total: 54 )
[21:18] <GM|JonB> Yuki cuts open her tunic!
[21:18] <GM|JonB> Nikolai!
[21:18] * Yuki` swears a bit in Hino.
[21:19] * Kuleno wouldn't know what a female looks like naked.
Perhaps this is a good thing.
[21:19] * Nikolai attacks the Magic Knight!
[21:19] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[21:19] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 1d100: 56 ( Total: 56 )
[21:20] <GM|JonB> ((hit!))
[21:20] <Nikolai> !roll 2d6+45 1d100
[21:20] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 2d6+45: 2, 5 ( Total: 52 )
[21:20] <Highwind>  Nikolai - 1d100: 3 ( Total: 3 )
[21:20] <Highwind> Nikolai - Total: 55
[21:20] <Nikolai> ((Silence))
[21:20] * Yuki` makes sure what's left of the tunic won't fall off of
her.
[21:20] <GM|JonB> ((It's not that bad.  Very tasteful for a woman 40
years younger.))
[21:21] <GM|JonB> He takes the yit!
[21:21] <GM|JonB> *hit!
[21:21] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno!))
[21:21] * Kuleno takes aim with the shockwave again.
[21:21] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[21:21] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 1d100: 60 ( Total: 60 )
[21:21] <GM|JonB> ((hit))
[21:21] <Kuleno> !roll 1d8+39
[21:21] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 1d8+39: 3 ( Total: 42 )
[21:21] <Kuleno> (( Go massive damage, go! ))
[21:22] <GM|JonB> ((Anika!))
[21:22] * Anika loads another Sleep Bolt and takes aim.
[21:22] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[21:22] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 27 ( Total: 27 )
[21:22] <GM|JonB> ((Hit!))
[21:22] <Anika> !roll 2d8+80 1d100
[21:22] <Highwind>  Anika - 2d8+80: 5, 5 ( Total: 90 )
[21:22] <Highwind>  Anika - 1d100: 85 ( Total: 85 )
[21:22] <Highwind> Anika - Total: 175
[21:24] <GM|JonB> *He drops to one knee with that, and coughs up
blood.  He pulls out a whistle, and blows hard into it, sending a
clear note across the building.  He then attempts to escape behind a
flash-bomb!
[21:24] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100.
[21:24] <Highwind> Error: Use a spellchecker and try again. -
   '1d100.'
[21:24] <GM|JonB> !roll 1d100
[21:24] <Highwind>  GM|JonB - 1d100: 18 ( Total: 18 )
[21:24] <GM|JonB> And when the smoke clears, he's gone.  like a Ninja.
[21:24] <GM|JonB> ((Victory Music!))
[21:25] <Nikolai> "...Fantastic."
[21:25] <Kuleno> (( So I have this skill called Poach... <.< ))
[21:25] * Yuki` swears a bit more in Hino, but then sees the exit is
clear and goes right through the thing.
[21:25] * Nikolai chugs an Ether.
[21:25] <Raoul> ((Dude, grab the smoke bomb. We can fix it up, good
as new! Just put the smoke back in...))
[21:25] <Raoul> ((<.<))
[21:25] <GM|JonB> ((Roll 2 poaches then.  you don't have time for
more.))
[21:26] <Kuleno> !roll 2#1d100
[21:26] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2#1d100(1): 5 ( Total: 5 )
[21:26] <Highwind>  Kuleno - 2#1d100(2): 6 ( Total: 6 )
[21:26] <Highwind> Kuleno - Total: 11
[21:26] <GM|JonB> ...
[21:26] <Kuleno> (( Crit and... crit lulz ))
[21:26] <Kuleno> (( Gimme mah items, and make 'em good. :P ))
[21:26] <Yuki`> ((Holy hell.))
[21:26] <GM|JonB> ((You just broke my brain.  Gimme a second to see
what I wrote down.  And XPV/GV
[21:26] <GM|JonB> ))
[21:26] <Nikolai> ((Gott in Himmel))
[21:27] <Raoul> ((We get two Knights, with wind-up Armor Break
action!))
[21:27] <Anika> "Yuki! Wait for me!"
[21:27] * Anika scurries after her.
[21:27] * Nikolai follows after, turning to Raoul and Kuleno. "I
think we're leaving."
[21:28] * Raoul nods, and sheathes his sword. "Considering the
circumstances, leaving appears to be wise!"
[21:28] <GM|JonB> ((5268XP Each, 1161 Each))
[21:28] * Kuleno checks the surrounding area. Doesn't look like the
guy that ran the Cradle will be happy.
[21:29] <GM|JonB> ((Kuleno; Staff or Rod as your weapon?))
[21:29] <Kuleno> (( Staff. ))
[21:29] <GM|JonB> ((You have which one, right now?))
[21:30] <Kuleno> (( +1 MAG one. Tier 2, I believe it is. ))
[21:31] <GM|JonB> ((Right.  You just poached yourself a Mithral Staff
from the Black Caller, and a High-Ether))
[21:31] <GM|JonB> ((Also, 4 Hi-Potions, and a Poison Dagger in
general lootz))
[21:32] <GM|JonB> ((You all running away now?))
[21:32] <Raoul> ((I think so, yeah. And I'll grab a Hi-Potion, I
think.))
[21:32] * Anika grabs a Hi-Potion as she runs away.
[21:33] * Yuki` will probably get a Hi-Potion, too. They can always
sell the Poison Dagger.
[21:35] <GM|JonB> *As the party leaves, they can see various
attackers streaming away as well.  But it doesn't look like any of
the warehouses are on fire, thank goodness.
[21:35] * Nikolai grabs one of the Hi-Potions
[21:36] <GM|JonB> The construction facility is merilly burning away
into the night...
[21:38] <GM|JonB> ((Shall I call it here, and pick up next time?))
[21:38] * Yuki` takes a moment to cough and catch her breath when
they're out of harm's way. "*cough* *cough* So... now what?"
[21:38] <Nikolai> ((That may be nice.))
[21:38] <Yuki`> ((I'd be okay with that, I think.))
[21:38] <Raoul> ((Yeah. That's a good endline, too.))

[19:04] <GM|JonB> *Anshan is a major city, for those from earth, you
are reminded of Industrial London.  For those from Thera, this is
perhaps the most technologically advanced city on teh planet.
[19:05] <GM|JonB> *Markius leads you through a small market,
encouraging you to browse for a while (shopping happens here, moving
on).  After an hour or so, he collects you and says that he's made
the arrangements for you all to spend the night at the facility.
[19:06] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|Markius
[19:06] <Nikolai> "How quaint."
[19:06] * Yuki` coughs slightly. "Good to hear..." She looks at
Nikolai. "Bit more than quaint, here."
[19:07] * Kuleno looks thoroughly unimpressed.
[19:07] * GM|Markius is very proud as he leads you through the
city. "We've built the hanger, as you call it, large. It's like an
artificial cave, and building it alone was a feat!"
[19:07] * ElementalKnight has joined #I-DEMON
[19:07] * ChanServ sets mode: +o ElementalKnight
[19:07] * Nikolai smiles diplomatically. "I look forward to seeing
it."
[19:08] <GM|Markius> "It's only a little way to the facility, and
once you've settled in, I'll give you a tour!"
[19:08] <ElementalKnight> * Raoul is a little wide-eyed - he's never
seen a place quite so... bustling. Advanced. Technologically
impressive.
[19:08] <Highwind> ElementalKnight, please look a bit closer at the
memberlist of this channel.
[19:08] <Kuleno> (( ... lol ))
[19:08] * GM|Markius is practically giddy with the prospect of
showing off 'his' place.
[19:08] <GM|Markius> ((haha))
[19:08] <ElementalKnight> ((*looks closer*))
[19:08] * Raoul was kicked by ElementalKnight (ElementalKnight)
[19:09] <ElementalKnight> ((I don't see anything.))
[19:09] <GM|Markius> ((There is nothing to see here, Citizen.  Move
on.))
[19:10] * Nikolai follows closely, looking to Raoul to guage his
reaction.
[19:10] * ElementalKnight is now known as Raoul
[19:11] * GM|Markius takes the five of you along a ring around the
city, making his way past the core of Anshan towards the built-up
area that just screams 'factories' and new and old buildings standing
side by side in the progress of science, and magic.
[19:12] * Yuki` mainly tries to keep a close eye on everything going
on, rather than focusing on anything.
[19:12] * Raoul is looking over each building, inwardly trying to
guess their purpose. If there's an honest-to-goodness shipyard,
that'll catch his attention fast.
[19:13] <GM|Markius> "Anshan is a wonderful city, the likes of which
has never existed before.  And with the building of the shipyard,
although something of a secret, we'll take to the skies as well!"
[19:13] * GM|Markius is very giddy.
[19:13] <Yuki`> "I see..."
[19:13] * Kuleno grunts noncomittally.
[19:14] <Raoul> "Intriguing. How long until such a ship sets sail, as
it may be?"
[19:14] <Nikolai> "Its all very impressive. My superiors and I
couldn't be more excited to be involved in your grand city, Mr.
Markius."
[19:15] * GM|Markius leads the party upto a gate in a simple stone
wall. He flashes... something to the guards, and announces that
you're all with him. "Well, Master Raoul, the first ship will be a
prototype, so perhaps a few months. After that, maybe a new ship
every month per facility."
[19:16] * Raoul nods. That sounds to be a fair pace, outdone only in
times of war.
[19:17] <GM|Markius> "This is the outside of the facility.
Officially, it's called the Aerodrome, as suggested by our friends
here."  He indicates Nikolai with this.  "Of course, I'm told that as
part of the deal, there will also be such places built in the Islands
as well, is that not right?"
[19:17] * Nikolai bows slightly at being mentioned.
[19:17] <GM|Markius> "Now come on!  Come on!  I'll show you to the
barracks you'll be put in tonite."
[19:18] * Raoul nods again, though he declines to say more on it than
that.
[19:18] * Yuki` follows Markius. Not much to say right now.
[19:19] * Kuleno follows silently.
[19:19] * Nikolai is looking around as much as Raoul is, but perhaps
with a different attitude.
[19:20] * GM|Markius shows you all past the gate, and leads you
inside. On the other side lay large warehouses that ring an empty
space easilly 50 meters deep. In the middle of this ring is a very
large, single edifice. It boggles the ming how big, and at first
glance, seems to be over 200 meters to a side.
[19:20] <Raoul> ((brb))
[19:20] <Nikolai> "My..."
[19:20] * Yuki` blinks. "I see what you mean by big."
[19:21] <Raoul> ((back))
[19:22] <GM|Markius> "This is the primary construction site.  The
warehouses have the raw materials we've been stockpiling."  He points
to a large door facing you, which is slowly opening.  "I'll show you
inside!"
[19:22] * Raoul blinks at the size of it. "And I presume the size is
accurate to that of the vehicle itself?"
[19:23] <Yuki`> "And you built all this?  Or at least your employees
did?"
[19:23] * GM|Markius leads you all in, walking past a set of workers
who avert thier faces from you. Inside, is caverous space that takes
up about 3/4 the floor. It's... open.
[19:23] * Nikolai wonders at the reactions of the workers...
[19:23] <GM|Markius> ((If you guys have seen the inside of a zepplin
hanger before, it's like that.  Wide open.))
[19:24] <GM|Markius> "The biggest problems were keeping the walls
upright, as well as installing the sliding roof.  Those, we had some,
*cough* external, help on."
[19:24] <Raoul> ((*imagines the airplane hangar that the Mythbusters
love so much*))
[19:24] <Yuki`> "...oh."
[19:25] <Nikolai> "Oh? From whom?"
[19:25] * GM|Markius snapps his fingers. "Ah, yes. Quarters. Right
this way. We're going to be putting the pilots into these rooms, but
as we don't have a ship, no pilots yet."
[19:26] * GM|Markius shrugs off Nikolai's question. "Someone." he
leads you along the inside wall a small building inside the building.
It was two stories tall, and was quite obviously a small apartment
block.
[19:26] <Nikolai> "..."
[19:27] * Kuleno distrusts everything a little more.
[19:28] * Nikolai decides to let it slide for now.
[19:28] * GM|Markius shows you up to the building. "There's a kitchen
a living room on the bottom floor, as with other amenities. The
actual rooms are on the second floor."
[19:28] * Raoul wonders a little, but... The plans themselves are
from Earth. Perhaps the insulation is as well - and if this is the
case, he has little reason to complain.
[19:29] <GM|Markius> "If you want to leave your stuff here, and
freshen up, go right ahead.  When you're ready, I'll show you the
rest of the Areodrome."
[19:29] * Nikolai nods. "Thank you, Mr. Markius."
[19:29] * Kuleno goes to find his room. He doubt they expected him.
[19:29] * Yuki` nods slightly.
[19:30] <GM|Markius> *The rooms are sparse, but the beds are large
enough for even Kuleno.  Closets and private washrooms.
[19:31] * Nikolai smiles sincerely at this welcome sight.
[19:31] * Raoul sits on a bed, and lets his pack slide off; he leans
his sword, still sheathed, on the bed, though he won't leave it
there. "We finally begin to see the fruit of our own slight efforts!
I find it heartening."
[19:31] * Kuleno goes back to the common area and waits for the
others, in that case.
[19:32] * GM|Markius waits in the common area, and finds Kuleno
already there. How did he do that?
[19:33] * Yuki` is going to get something to drink, and otherwise
stay in the common area.
[19:33] * Nikolai leaves nothing in his room- he keeps pretty much
every aarticle of importance in his long trenchcoat.
[19:33] * Kuleno doesn't have belongings - just his staff.
[19:34] <GM|Markius> ((/me really wishes Melo was here.  He had a
wonderful RP moment all set up for this moment, and now it's past. ))
[19:34] <Nikolai> ((Wheres she at?))
[19:34] * Raoul enjoys a moment away from everyone. Not a moment of
privacy since the train; he will quietly relish this one.
[19:34] <GM|Markius> ((Indisposed at the moment.  I'll live.))
[19:35] <GM|Markius> "Well, while we wait for Raoul to come down,
does anyone have any questions?"
[19:35] <Kuleno> "Nikolai asked."
[19:35] * Kuleno is not one for diplomacy.
[19:36] <Nikolai> "Yes, I did. Thank you, Kuleno."
[19:36] <Nikolai> "I was hoping to learn more about the... how did
you phrase it? 'External help?'"
[19:36] <GM|Markius> "Just some contractors.  I wasn't involved with
that."
[19:37] <Kuleno> "You didn't answer before.  Tell why."
[19:37] <Nikolai> "I see. Would I be able to speak to the person who
was?"
[19:37] * Nikolai winces a bit at Kuleno's directness.
[19:38] * Yuki` just stands around, and takes a long drink to hide
the hint of a smile.
[19:38] * GM|Markius shrugs. He was hoping they would be asking
questions that he could use to show off! "Probably one of the
Administrators, Breen, I think his name was."
[19:38] <Nikolai> "Breen. Thank you."
[19:39] <GM|Markius> "But that's in the past.  The building is ready,
and tommorow, we shall lay the keel, or somthing like that."
[19:39] <Nikolai> "So. What else had you intended to show us?"
[19:39] * Raoul comes down, sword on his back and pack on his
shoulder, unaware of the conversation currently taking place. He
looks a little refreshed. "My apologies for the delay. Are we
continuing the tour?"
[19:41] <GM|Markius> "Well, we are goi...  Ah, speak of a person!
Master Raoul, we were waiting for you."
[19:41] <GM|Markius> "Now that we all ready, I'll show you the rest
of the building."
[19:41] <Raoul> "Again, my apologies - I did not mean to keep you
overly long."
[19:41] * GM|Markius goes to the door, and opens it, waiting for all
of you to file out.
[19:42] * Nikolai does so.
[19:42] * Kuleno takes up the rear, as always.
[19:43] * Raoul is in the middle, then - he'll see things when he
sees them, no hurry.
[19:43] * Yuki` quickly finishes her drink, then notices that she and
Kuleno are still the last two in, and heads out.
[19:43] * GM|Markius indicates a larger building that rests against
the outside wall. "That is the builidng for the support staff, like
the engineers and the stuff."
[19:45] * GM|Markius begins to walk in a clockwise manner around the
outside. "Next is the administration building, although they've
closed for the night. They are throwing a party in town, getting
ready for the morning."
[19:46] * Kuleno shakes his head. Party after the hunt, always after.
[19:47] * Yuki` silently follows.
[19:48] <GM|Markius> *There is a large gap after that building, and
you can see heavy tracks leading to another set of massive doors in
the wall.  "We'll be bringing in material through here, and can set
up a tow line, on the suggestion of our contractors.  I think you
would call it a 'harbor boat' or a similar function."
[19:49] * Nikolai falls into a steady routine of smile, nod, smile,
nod.
[19:49] * GM|Markius shows you past the foundries, where they'll make
the frames, the specialized looms to make the cloth to cover the
lighter-than-air craft, as well as the (empty) storage containers for
the gass to keep it afloat.
[19:49] * Raoul nods, mentally comparing it to building a proper
waterborne sailing vessel. Sails, stores, drydock...
[19:51] <GM|Markius> *On the far side of the hanger from your rooms
is the machine shop where they will be construct the engines.  "We
don't have the 'combustion' engines of Earth, or at least, no where
near as powerful, we're building a new style of propellor, one that
uses powerful wind magic to pus the ship through the air."
[19:51] <GM|Markius> "And to think, 5 years ago, this would have been
impossible with the anti-magic bias."
[19:51] <Yuki`> "Very true."
[19:52] <Raoul> "May the dying breath of that bias be the wind in
your sails and ours."
[19:53] <Nikolai> "Indeed."
[19:54] <Raoul> ((Also... Five years ago, you'd have a really nice
view of a giant fireball here. <.<))
[19:54] <GM|Markius> "Along that side are the mechanisms to control
the roof.  As you can imagine, we can't build the ship in the open,
what with the weather, so you can understand."
[19:54] <GM|Markius> ((EK!  Stop bragging!))
[19:55] <Raoul> ((Sorry, sorry. Hushing now.))
[19:56] * GM|Markius leads you back across the middle of the
Areodrome, where you pass what he calls 'The Cradle'. It looks like
metal ribs sticking up into the air. "This is where we'll build the
hulls of the ships, before mounting the balloons atop."
[19:57] <Raoul> "Ah. This is most like the drydock, then?"
[19:57] <GM|Markius> *It's taken about an hour to walk this length,
and it seems that night is falling outside.
[19:57] <GM|Markius> "If that's the ship building term, yes.  But we
want new words for the new indusdries!"
[19:58] <GM|Markius> "Well, that's the tour.  I'll show you back to
your rooms, and then meet you again in the morning?"
[19:59] <Nikolai> "That sounds fine. Thank you very much for the
informative tour, Mr. Markius."
[19:59] * Yuki` nods, and stifles a yawn. "Sounds good - starting to
feel tired."
[19:59] * GM|Markius leads you all back to your quarters, and wishes
you a good night before retiring to his own building.
[20:00] * Yuki` starts looking for a little bit of food in the
kitchen once Markius leaves. "Well. He's... enthusiastic."
[20:01] <Nikolai> "Indeed."
[20:01] <GM|Markius> ((I really don't want to start this EPIK fight
without Melo.  So, talk amongst yourselves, while I see if I need to
make adjustments to account for her lack.))
[20:01] * Raoul plops down on his bed, and lets his equipment
lay. "Indeed. I found it difficult to stay abreast of that
enthusiasm."
[20:02] <Nikolai> ((I wish Anika was here, Nikolai wants a Science
Buddy))
[20:02] * Yuki` looks around. "To be honest, I tuned out after the
bit of talking about how Refulgo once was."
[20:03] <Nikolai> "I'd actually like to hear more about that if I
could, Ms. Yuki. What I've learned about that time is limited to
secondhand reports."
[20:04] * Kuleno doesn't really have much to say here. He's just
watching.
[20:04] * Yuki` shakes her head. "I wasn't around her for most of it,
either. But from what I heard, it was bad. The Rune Knights as the
special police of the regime, snuffing out any and every form of
magic that they could on the leadership's orders. There were some
real fanatics in that group..."
[20:05] <GM|Markius> ((Miles Ferrum))
[20:05] <Nikolai> "Where were you while this went on, Ms. Yuki?"
[20:06] <Yuki`> "I was in the area for a short time, near the end.
Most of the rest of it, I was back in Hinodeumei."
[20:07] <Nikolai> "Hmm. So I take it these Rune Knights were
eventually deposed?"
[20:07] <Yuki`> "It didn't go that far.  Hinodeumei had its own
problems... has its own problems."
[20:08] <Yuki`> "And those who controlled them, yes.  I heard that a
few are still around, but not many.  For obvious reasons."
[20:08] <Nikolai> "I see. I think we may be dealing with leftovers
from that movement."
[20:09] <Nikolai> "The thug on the train... the one who nearly took
my head off..."
[20:10] <Nikolai> "He said something like, 'Ther's a reason you
people were persecuted.'"
[20:10] * Yuki` raises an eyebrow. "I'm not so sure about that...
they had a mage with them, too."
[20:11] * Nikolai sighs. "Thats true... I'm likely grasping at
straws."
[20:11] <Yuki`> "Well, the world makes for strange bedfellows...
maybe not that strange, but who knows?"
[20:11] <Nikolai> "But the idea of a totally unexpected assassination
attempt still has me on edge."
[20:12] * Yuki` frowns and takes a bite of whatever food she
got. "Yeah... it would be nice to not have to deal with those
anymore."
[20:12] <GM|Markius> ((I've done the math a bit, and realized this
fight would be hard with only 4/5.  Shall we wait for Melo next week
before I open the can of Epic?))
[20:13] <Nikolai> ((Sounds good.))
[20:13] <Raoul> ((Aww. But I can wait.))
[20:13] <Yuki`> ((Unfortunate, but I don't know if we have much
choice.))
[20:14] <GM|Markius> ((Kuleno?))
[20:15] <Kuleno> (( I'd rather smash some face, but that's just me. ))
[20:15] <GM|Markius> ((Well, I can start the fight now, and pick it
up to finish next week.))
[20:17] <Raoul> ((Bleh. Much as I would also like to whomp something
good, I dislike popping out mid-battle. 'sides, it's a nice place to
step back in next time.))
[20:18] <GM|Markius> ((Make the next session wall-to wall battle?))
[20:20] <GM|Markius> ((Last call.  Go or No Go?))
[20:20] <Nikolai> ((no go here.))
[20:20] <Raoul> ((No go, I guess.))
[20:21] <Yuki`> ((No go. I'd rather not have only part of a battle
and then suddenly stop.))
[20:21] <Kuleno> (( I'm outvoted, then. ))
[20:21] <GM|Markius> ((Majority rules.))
[20:21] <GM|Markius> 2000 XP each.

[19:05] <GM|JonB> *It's still the train.  The smoke is clearing from
the smoke bomb, and all you have is a hole blasted in one wall, a
dead thief, and suddently, the sound of feet rumbling towards the
commotion!
[19:05] <GM|JonB> ((Cue Kuleno!))
[19:06] * Nikolai looks up with a snap. "Kuleno."
[19:06] * Kuleno muscles his way through the crowd and pushes them
back, keeping them away from the carnage until he knows what's going
on. He didn't get his meat.
[19:07] * Nikolai steps out of the cab and looks to the club car.
[19:07] * Anika coughs.
[19:07] * Yuki` quickly hides her knife before getting out of the now-
ruined room. >_>
[19:07] * Raoul is relatively passive, still standing over his kill.
A quick thought as to his opponent's skill, and a step back.
[19:08] <GM|JonB> "WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?  EVERYONE STEP BACK!"
Looks like the conductor is arriving from the front of the train.
[19:08] * Anika pulls herself to her feet, waving away the remaining
smoke.
[19:09] * Yuki` frowns, and tries to meet the conductor.
[19:09] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|Conductor
[19:09] * Nikolai looks to the conductor after visually confirming
Kuleno's safety and presence. He assumes a look of total calm.
[19:09] <GM|Conductor> "What happened here?  Are you responsible?
Are..  You..?"
[19:10] * GM|Conductor gets a little nervous looking at Kuleno
[19:10] * Yuki` shakes her head. "No, we didn't do this. We were the
victims, here."
[19:10] <Nikolai> "We were atatcked by a group of thieves."
[19:10] <Yuki`> "Literally out of nowhere."
[19:10] <Yuki`> ((Were they all human?))
[19:10] * Kuleno crosses his arms and focuses on keeping the crowd at
bay.
[19:11] <GM|Conductor> "Hold on.  EVERYONE BACK UP!  CLEAR BACK TO
THE PREVIOUS CAR!"
[19:11] <GM|Conductor> ((Yuki; Yes.))
[19:11] <Nikolai> "We reacted in self-defense. One was killed, and
the rest disappeared."
[19:11] * Anika scowls at the conductor. Must he keep yelling?
[19:11] * Raoul sighs, and speaks. "My apologies for the homicide. It
was, in the moment's heat, necessary for our survival."
[19:11] <Yuki`> "Four humans:  one mage, one hand-to-hand fighter,
and two standard thieves."
[19:12] <GM|Conductor> *The crowd, 'encouraged' by Kuleno, start to
clear away.
[19:12] <Nikolai> "The Yeti is with us, by the way."
[19:13] * Nikolai pushes his glasses back
[19:13] <GM|Conductor> "Alright.  A dead body.  Haven't had one of
those in a while.  You four.  Err, Five, step out of the room, and
move down to an empty one."
[19:13] * Yuki` nods, and steps aside for the conductor. "Hopefully,
this will be the end of it."
[19:13] * GM|Conductor reaches up, and presses a hidden button beside
one of the windows. Nothing happens that you see.
[19:14] * Nikolai moves obediently to the next room along, adjacent
to the only other occupied room in the cab.
[19:14] * GM|Conductor goes down, and checks all the rooms, and nods
to myself, apparently satisfied.
[19:14] * Raoul nods, and follows; when in a foreign country, it's
better to co-operate with the authorities until it isn't in your best
interest anymore.
[19:16] * Kuleno goes with the group, still silent.
[19:16] * Yuki` holds back for a little longer and lets the others go
into the room. "Will we need to do anything else for now, besides
keep an eye out for the people we saw?"
[19:16] * Nikolai enters, and sits down heavily. He places his face
in his hands, and sighs raggedly. After a few moments, and looks back
up.
[19:16] <GM|Conductor> "I need to take all of your statements.  There
will be others along shorty.
[19:16] * Yuki` bows to the conductor. "I see. Then I'll wait with
the others."
[19:16] <Raoul> "Of course."
[19:16] * Anika enters before Yuki, taking a seat.
[19:16] * Nikolai assumes a smile.
[19:17] * Yuki` heads into the room to do exactly that.
[19:17] <GM|Conductor> *About then, three more people arrive,
including a rather large Galka, all wearing conductors uniforms.
They take one look at the damage, and they begin to investigate the
room.
[19:18] * GM|Conductor walks to the door of the room, and makes sure
everyone is seated, or comfortable.
[19:18] * Kuleno continues to not say anything.
[19:19] * Yuki` is indeed seated.
[19:19] * GM|Conductor sighs, and takes of his cap, rubbing his
head. "Alright then. Your names, and which station you got on, and
where you're gonna get off."
[19:20] <Nikolai> "Nikolai Cadmus."
[19:21] <Anika> "Anika Roeschen."
[19:21] <Nikolai> "We all got on in Leaftown."
[19:21] <Raoul> "Raoul al-Zeid. We boarded in Leaftown, and I believe
we are scheduled to disembark in Anshan."
[19:21] * Yuki` bows slightly. "Yuki Matsumoto."
[19:21] * GM|Conductor looks at Kuleno. "And you?"
[19:22] <Kuleno> "Kuleno," he grunts after a minute.
[19:23] <GM|Conductor> "Alright then.  Explain to me what happened
here.  And know that as this Rail is owned and operated by the
Government, I am an authorized Governemtn agent."
[19:24] * Nikolai looks to the assembled group.
[19:24] * Kuleno holds up a hand. "Outside. Kuleno handle."
[19:24] * Raoul raises an eyebrow, but declines to play
the 'government agent' card at this point.
[19:24] * Nikolai turns back to the conductor.
[19:25] * Anika hears 'government' and clams up.
[19:25] * Yuki` stands up. "We were sitting in the other car when
those four people we mentioned tried to attack and kill us. Kuleno
was getting food for us at the time- they probably wanted to wait
until he left. We fought back in self-defense, and they ran off."
[19:26] * Anika nods.
[19:27] <GM|Conductor> "Descriptions?"  He beckons one of his co-
workers to come over.
[19:27] <Nikolai> "That is indeed the situation."
[19:27] <Nikolai> "There were four. Human."
[19:27] <GM|Conductor> ((You can generalize.  Can I assume you give
them fairly accurate depictions?))
[19:27] * Yuki` nods, and repeats what bits about their features that
Yuki would remember, but her player does not. >_>
[19:28] * Nikolai corroborates as necessary.
[19:28] <Yuki`> ((Yeah, generally accurate here. Also: BRB.))
[19:28] * Kuleno proves to be useless.
[19:28] <GM|Conductor> ((If you're giving a description, roll
Awareness.))
[19:28] <GM|Conductor> ((I'll roll for Yuki))
[19:28] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[19:28] <Highwind> Nikolai - 1d100: 86 ( Total: 86 )
[19:29] <GM|Conductor> !roll 1d100
[19:29] <Highwind> GM|Conductor - 1d100: 60 ( Total: 60 )
[19:29] <Nikolai> ((FAILYA))
[19:29] * Anika remains silent, not trusting herself to speak.
[19:30] <GM|Conductor> *Yuki gives a decent description, including
some things Nikolai was apparently wrong on.  The other conductor who
was listening, nods, and moves away.  You figure he's gonna start a
search.
[19:30] * Raoul deigns not to, but he doesn't quite remember them
like that. But it was the heat of battle...
[19:30] <GM|Conductor> "Allright then.  Did you know of, or recognize
any of your attackers?"
[19:30] <Nikolai> "No."
[19:31] * Yuki` shakes her head.
[19:31] <GM|Conductor> "You, Mr Raoul?"
[19:32] * Anika shakes her head silently.
[19:32] <Raoul> "I am afraid not. Had we known them beforehand,
perhaps this tragedy could never have begun."
[19:33] <GM|Conductor> "Alright then, you say they attacked you.  Did
they say anthing during the attack, or do anything?"
[19:34] <Nikolai> "Hmm. One of them expressed contempt for magic
users."
[19:35] <GM|Conductor> "A common sentiment, go on."
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[19:35] * Anika leans over to Yuki and whispers as quietly as
possible. "Should we tell him about the weird old man?"
[19:35] * Raoul has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[19:36] * ElementalKnight_ is now known as Raoul
[19:36] <Raoul> ((ugh. Connection looks like it's gonna try to be
dumb again.))
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[19:36] <Yuki`> "The thieves did try to take some of our stuff.  ...I
didn't think we looked like we were rich people.  Maybe my clothes
are in fashion?"  She subtly gives a look to Anika, as if to say no.
[19:37] <Raoul> "We certainly could not have looked like easy
targets..."
[19:38] * ElementalKnight has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[19:38] <Nikolai> "Well, I'm guessing we looked considerably easier
without our Yeti bodyguard."
[19:39] * GM|Conductor scowls, then mutters. "A random attack?
Doesn't seem right. Although he is right, and with that old woman,
only three real possible fighters, certainly that Islander man."
[19:39] * Raoul isn't entirely sure that's a compliment.
[19:39] * Yuki` frowns. "I wish I could have helped more... but I
think those days are behind me."
[19:41] * Nikolai smiles. "Well, just because they were thieves, they
aren't necessarily intelligent."
[19:42] <Raoul> "Indeed. There must be more well-off passengers for
them to strike at, yet they struck at our company."
[19:42] <GM|Conductor> "Don't assume things.  They may have thought
you had somthing valuble."
[19:42] <GM|Conductor> "Do you?"
[19:43] * Nikolai shrugs. "I'm afraid we can only speculate as to
their motives, sir."
[19:43] * Yuki` looks to the side. "Well... I might."
[19:43] <Nikolai> "My own effects are valuable only in the
sentimental sense, sir."
[19:44] * Yuki` takes the Rusted Equipment out of her bag. "I was
told that put together, this could make for a nice device of some
sort."
[19:44] <Raoul> "My finances are simple enough; many are richer than
I where I come from. I know not of your own economy, however."
[19:44] <Yuki`> "It may not look good, but I was told that it could
work with the right technician."
[19:45] <Yuki`> ((Ah, the joys of the misdirecting lie. >_>))
[19:45] <GM|Conductor> "Allright then.  Did you buy these tickets
from a legitimate source?"
[19:46] * Yuki` puts that rusted equipment away.
[19:46] * Nikolai lifts an eyebrow.
[19:46] <Nikolai> "We didn't buy them from scalpers, if thats what
you're asking."
[19:47] * Anika remains silent at Yuki's look.
[19:47] <Nikolai> ((Is there something I can roll to make that a
satisfactory answer?))
[19:48] <Anika> (( Intimidation! ))
[19:48] <GM|Conductor> ((No!  Lemme check.))
[19:48] <Raoul> ((Smooth Talk might do it.))
[19:49] <Nikolai> ((Since I'd rather not bring up Ms. Kierley.
[19:49] <GM|Conductor> ((Huh.  No 'Lie through your teeth' skill.))
[19:49] <Kuleno> (( Negotiation can often work. ))
[19:49] <Yuki`> ((Negotiation, eh? >_>))
[19:49] <Anika> (( Acting. ))
[19:50] <Yuki`> ((Oh, only Acting of 20 here.))
[19:50] <GM|Conductor> ((Negotiation, then))
[19:50] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[19:50] <Highwind> Nikolai - 1d100: 9 ( Total: 9 )
[19:50] <Nikolai> ((pass by 51 :P))
[19:51] <Yuki`> ((I can try it too i- oh, okay then.))
[19:51] <Raoul> ((Nikolai can be the group's mouthpiece now. <.<))
[19:51] <Yuki`> ((...aw crap. then what will Yuki do? ;_;))
[19:51] * GM|Conductor nods at his answer. "All right then. Can't be
to safe."
[19:51] <Nikolai> ((She can help when I botch!))
[19:52] <GM|Conductor> ((Crouching Normal, Hidden Badass?))
[19:52] <Yuki`> ((And Yuki has the higher Negotiation, too. -_-))
[19:53] <Yuki`> ((Anyway, sorry for the self-pity. :p Go on.))
[19:53] <Raoul> ((brb))
[19:53] <GM|Conductor> "Alright.  Is there anything you want to add?"
[19:53] * Yuki` shakes her head.
[19:54] <Nikolai> "That seems to sum it up, sir."
[19:54] * Anika smiles cutely. "We're very sorry to inconvenience
you, sir."
[19:54] <GM|Conductor> "Allright then, stay here for a moment.  Be
quiet."
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[19:55] * ElementalKnight has quit IRC (Read error: Connection reset
by peer)
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[19:55] * GM|Conductor goes to talk to his co-workers, and they talk
in fairly hushed tones.
[19:55] * ChanServ sets mode: +o ElementalKnight
[19:55] * Nikolai blinks at the conductor's brusque tone.
[19:56] * Raoul has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[19:57] * Anika frowns, crossing her arms.
[19:57] * ElementalKnight is now known as Raoul
[19:57] * Nikolai gives Anika a smile, as if to say; Nice touch.
[19:58] * Kuleno looks at Anika. One might think she's copying him.
[19:58] * Yuki` sits back down.
[19:58] * GM|Conductor returns in a few moments. "Alright. I'll have
to seal off this car for the meanwhile. We apologize for the
inconvenience, and ask that you move towards one the rear cars. If
you left anything in your cabin, please tell us, and we will get it
for you."
[19:59] <Kuleno> "Staff," he grunts.
[19:59] * GM|Conductor nods. "Anything else?"
[19:59] <Raoul> "My sword, if you would."
[19:59] * Yuki` looks down at her bag. "I think I have everything of
mine in this."
[19:59] <Nikolai> "I have everything."
[20:00] * Nikolai stands.
[20:00] * Anika clutches her pack. Everything she owns is contained
within.
[20:00] <Anika> "No thank you, sir."
[20:00] * GM|Conductor steps aside, and waits for all of you to move
back to another car.
[20:01] * Yuki` takes her bag and starts heading back.
[20:02] * Raoul goes, suddenly a tiny bit apprehensive that, for
politeness' sake, he didn't take his deadly weapon with him himself.
[20:02] * Kuleno is, as always, at the end of the lin.
[20:02] <Kuleno> (( line* ))
[20:02] * Anika hoists her bag over her shoulder and follows Yuki
that-a-way.
[20:02] * GM|Conductor waits for everyone to leave, before going back
to the destroyed cabin.
[20:03] * Nikolai walks out with the others, towards the rear cabs.
[20:04] <GM|Conductor> *Once you've settled down, the same conductor
returns, with all your items.  "It seems as though you are telling us
the truth of being attacked.  Once again, we apologize for this, and
wonder what we can do to make the rest of your trip enjoyable."
[20:04] <Kuleno> "Meat," he says simply, disgruntled.
[20:05] <Nikolai> "... a meal would not be amiss."
[20:05] * GM|Conductor nods, and produces a notepad and pencil. "I'll
take your orders myself then."
[20:05] * Kuleno was clear enough the first time.
[20:05] <Yuki`> "Only water for me, please."
[20:06] * Nikolai tries to remember if pizza, or some equivalent,
exists in Thera.
[20:06] * Raoul thinks. "I suppose it would be too much to ask for
pita and hummus?"
[20:06] <GM|Conductor> ((I'll let you guys talk amongst yourselves
for a few minutes while I catch up on my laundry.))
[20:06] <GM|Conductor> ((He'll take all your orders, then leave))
[20:06] <Raoul> ((In that case, I'll BRB again. Stepmom just got home
fro ma trip.))
[20:06] <Anika> "I'll have a sandwich, please. Hold the tomato."
[20:07] * Nikolai orders a turkey sandwhich, with bacon.
[20:07] * Anika nods. "That sounds good. What he's having."
[20:09] * Nikolai waits for the conductor to leave before facing the
group.
[20:10] * Yuki` leans back in her seat a little.
[20:11] <Nikolai> "So. I was surprised to see the variety of
abilities you all posess."
[20:11] <Nikolai> "Anika. Where did you get that... device?"
[20:12] <Anika> "Oh, that piece of junk? I built it."
[20:13] * Nikolai 's eyes widen. "Really? So you're mechanically
inclined?"
[20:13] <Raoul> ((back. Carrying luggage for the win.))
[20:13] * Anika shrugs. "You could say that, I guess."
[20:14] * Raoul leans in a little now, since it looks like they do in
fact have hummus (hooray!). Machines, much as magic, have always
escaped him, but not his curiosity.
[20:14] <Nikolai> "Have you built any other interesting things?"
[20:15] <Anika> "Oh, I tinker with things all the time. I did build
my own p-"
[20:16] * Anika stops herself in time, clamping her mouth tightly
shut.
[20:16] * Yuki` blinks, but shrugs. "The device is impressive."
[20:16] * Nikolai raises an eyebrow. "Beg pardon?"
[20:17] <Anika> "P...Pizza...maker! Yes. I love pizza."
[20:18] <Anika> "Pizza and poison. I do it all!"
[20:18] <Nikolai> "Oh! So it automates the pizza-assembly process?
Impressive!"
[20:18] <Yuki`> "...what's pizza, again?"
[20:19] <Nikolai> "Its tomato sauce, cheese, and other toppings over
bread."
[20:20] <Yuki`> "Oh."
[20:20] * GM|Conductor is now known as GM|
[20:20] <GM|> ((Keep going!))
[20:21] <Yuki`> "Doesn't sound that great."
[20:21] <Anika> "I can do more serious things, though. I can
construct weapons, armor..."
[20:21] <Nikolai> "My description does not do it justice, Yuki."
[20:22] <Yuki`> "I'll take your word for that, Nikolai."
[20:22] <Nikolai> "Thats good to know, Anika. Its nice to know that
there's someone else of a scientific mind."
[20:23] * Anika looks excited. "You like science, too?"
[20:23] * Nikolai sets his glasses up his nose.
[20:23] <Nikolai> "Well, if I were in school, I'd be majoring in
Physics."
[20:24] <GM|> *There is a knock on the door.
[20:25] * Kuleno opens the door.
[20:25] <GM|> *The conductor is standing there, with a pair of
carts.  Lunch is served!
[20:26] * Yuki` takes her drink.
[20:26] * Nikolai takes his sandwhich, the one WITH tomato.
[20:27] * Anika pulls a piece of bacon off her sandwich and chomps on
it.
[20:29] * Kuleno examines the meat.
[20:29] <Kuleno> (( What's the verdict, Jimmy? ))
[20:29] <GM|> ((It's fresh, and raw))
[20:30] * Kuleno thoroughly relishes the raw meat. Mm, blood.
[20:30] * Anika holds out a piece to Kuleno. "Bacon?"
[20:31] * Kuleno eyes the offered meat suspiciously and takes it,
eating it in one bite. He holds out a piece of his meat in return.
[20:32] * Nikolai eats his sandwhich, not put off by Kuleno's
voracity.
[20:32] * Anika holds out her hand. "No thank you. I much prefer my
meat cooked."
[20:32] <Anika> (( *up ))
[20:32] * Yuki` just sits and drinks her water.
[20:32] * Kuleno makes a disgusted face before finishing his meal.
[20:34] <GM|> ((Not gonna talk about what just happened?))
[20:35] <Kuleno> (( Don't be looking at me. ))
[20:35] <Nikolai> "...So."
[20:35] <Anika> (( Food first. :P ))
[20:35] * Anika takes a bite of her sandwich. Mmm.
[20:36] <Nikolai> "So where in the hell did those guys come from?"
[20:36] <Yuki`> "Good question."
[20:38] <Raoul> ((dangit. Sorry - got dragged out to help sis' iPod
stuff. Back again. _-_))
[20:38] <Yuki`> "They obviously knew what they wanted, but beyond
that..."
[20:38] * Anika takes another bite. "What would they want wif us?"
[20:38] <Nikolai> "They tried to get the blueprints."
[20:39] * Raoul opens his eyes, revere over. "Beyond that - we are
certainly a unique group. Motivations may have run deeper than that."
[20:40] <Nikolai> "I disagree."
[20:40] <Anika> "Blueprints?"
[20:40] <Yuki`> "So that's what was in there..."
[20:41] <Nikolai> "They were on a purposeful mission."
[20:42] <Anika> "Blueprints for what?"
[20:43] <Nikolai> "Its a gift to the Refulgan government."
[20:43] <Anika> "That doesn't answer my question."
[20:43] <Nikolai> "A zeppelin."
[20:44] <Raoul> "A machine capable of flight."
[20:44] * Yuki` looks surprised. "What?"
[20:44] * Anika gets wide-eyed. "Can I see?"
[20:45] * Nikolai shakes his head, sadly.
[20:45] <Nikolai> "I'd rather not take them off of my person if I
have to."
[20:45] * Anika looks disappointed.
[20:46] * Nikolai looks bashful. "Sorry."
[20:46] <Anika> "I understand."
[20:47] * Raoul decides not to mention that he *has* seen it, and
that he didn't really 'get' it. >.>
[20:47] * Yuki` looks to Anita. "Maybe you'll get a chance to see it
later."
[20:47] <GM|> *The train starts to slow down, a stop coming up.
[20:48] <GM|> ((It's not Anshan, just a random stop))
[20:49] <Nikolai> "Hmm. Kuleno?"
[20:49] <Nikolai> "Could you please watch to see if anyone is
entering this car?"
[20:52] * Kuleno watches.
[20:53] * Yuki` coughs quietly a dn drinks some more water.
[20:54] <Yuki`> ((*and drinks))
[20:54] <GM|> *Some people get one, Kuleno can see the Galkan
conductor watching people as well.
[20:54] <GM|> ((Awareness from all?))
[20:54] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[20:54] <Highwind> Nikolai - 1d100: 11 ( Total: 11 )
[20:54] <Nikolai> ((pass by 49))
[20:54] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[20:55] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d100: 21 ( Total: 21 )
[20:55] <Yuki`> ((Pass by 14.))
[20:55] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:55] <Highwind> Anika - 1d100: 66 ( Total: 66 )
[20:55] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[20:55] <Highwind> Kuleno - 1d100: 30 ( Total: 30 )
[20:55] <Kuleno> (( Pass by some amount. ))
[20:55] <Anika> (( Fail by 16. ))
[20:56] <Raoul> !roll 1d100
[20:56] <Highwind> Raoul - 1d100: 18 ( Total: 18 )
[20:56] <Raoul> ((Whee, there's your pass.))
[20:56] <GM|> *Nikolai, Yuki, Raoul and Kuleno all see a body being
carted off the train.  You can guess whose.
[20:56] <GM|> ((Way to use those low rolls guys!))
[20:57] * Raoul bows his head a moment. He respects the dead, even if
respect was not given in life.
[20:57] <Nikolai> ((Silence>_<))
[20:57] <Yuki`> "...looks like they're cleaning up."
[20:57] <Nikolai> "Indeed."
[20:58] <GM|> *The Conductor walks by the cabin, announcing to all
that there will be a slight delay as one of the cars is removed for
maintainence(sp)
[20:59] <Kuleno> (( Maintenance. ))
[20:59] * Anika groans.
[20:59] <Kuleno> (( I think. I didn't see when I typed. ))
[21:00] * Raoul looks over. "Something the matter?"
[21:01] <GM|> *Over the next few minutes, the train moves back and
forth.
[21:01] * Anika mutters, "Bored."
[21:02] <GM|> ((Fast forward?))
[21:02] * Kuleno is used to far more waiting. "Wait."
[21:02] <Kuleno> (( Well, to Anika, not to you. :P ))
[21:02] <Nikolai> ((sure))
[21:02] * Anika makes a face at Kuleno.
[21:02] <Anika> (( Sure. ))
[21:02] <GM|> (( >p ))
[21:02] <Yuki`> ((I'm okay with the fast-forward.))
[21:02] <Raoul> ((I won't stop you. But I keep being thrown in and
out of the game, who knows?))
[21:03] <GM|> *Welcome to Anshan!  The rest of the trip was quite
uneventful.  No mention was made of the 'incident'.
[21:04] * Nikolai is glad to get off the train. He hasn't really been
able to get comfortable since having a hole punched where his head
had been.
[21:05] * Raoul is glad to be able to smell a hint of sea air, to
stretch his legs. He takes a deep breath, tries to hold it, but the
scent of Anshan makes this nigh impossible. It just isn't like home.
[21:06] * GM| is now known as GM|Markius
[21:06] * Yuki` stays silent and follows the others. She's been here
before, but a lot has changed, and it's not like she'd be able to do
much else besides follow the others.
[21:06] * Anika has been fidgeting the whole trip, and is glad for
the chance to stretch her legs and move about.
[21:07] * Kuleno silently gets off the train, watching the others.
[21:07] * GM|Markius stands on a pile of boxes, looking around. He
sees Raoul, and Nikolai... And the others.
[21:07] <GM|Markius> "Um!  Hello!"
[21:08] * Nikolai blinks. "Hello there."
[21:08] * Kuleno eyes the man on the crates.
[21:09] * GM|Markius gets down off the crates, and come close. "Um,
hello. You must be Mr. Cadmus and Lord Raoul. I wasn't informed that
you would be bringing... guests."
[21:09] * Raoul bows. "Our apologies. You are...?"
[21:09] * Nikolai smiles. "Plans changed. They are quite trustworthy."
[21:10] * Nikolai extends his hand to the guy.
[21:10] * Yuki` bows to this guy as well, staying silent until
introduced.
[21:10] <GM|Markius> "I'm Markius.  I'm with the Anshan Advanced
Veheicles Research Facility."  He produces some identification.
[21:12] * Raoul glances over the provided papers.
[21:12] <GM|Markius> "You have the package?"
[21:12] * Kuleno grunts in acknowledgmenr.
[21:12] <Kuleno> (( acknowledgement* ))
[21:12] <Nikolai> "I do, Mr. Markius."
[21:13] * Nikolai produces the metal tube from within his coat.
[21:13] <GM|Markius> "Ah good."
[21:13] <GM|Markius> *Party gains 5000XP!
[21:13] <Nikolai> "You know, we had to kill to get this to you..."
[21:13] * GM|Markius isn't listening as he snatches the tube, and
begins to open it up.
[21:14] <Raoul> ((FallOut style EXP? Nice.))
[21:14] <GM|Markius> ((Why not?))
[21:14] <Raoul> ((*repeatedly pickpockets one coin back and forth.))
[21:14] <GM|Markius> ((Wrong XP.))
[21:15] * GM|Markius produces the bluprints, and looks them
over. "Excellent! Excellent!"
[21:15] <Kuleno> (( 5,000 XP? >.> ))
[21:15] <GM|Markius> "Say, are you fellows busy?  I know it's coming
on night time, and if you don't have a place to stay, we have plenty
of room at the facility for you.
[21:15] <Yuki`> ((Total, or per PC?))
[21:15] <GM|Markius> ((Each))
[21:15] <Yuki`> ((Oh, good.))
[21:16] <Nikolai> "Mr. Markius... would it be possible for one of our
teammates to have a look at those blueprints?"
[21:16] <GM|Markius> "You have technical training?  They sent an
expert?"
[21:16] <Raoul> "We have found out the hard way that we have one of
everything."
[21:17] <Nikolai> "Of sorts, yes."
[21:17] * Nikolai motions toward Anika.
[21:17] * GM|Markius looks at Anika. "Really?"
[21:17] * Anika nods and extends her hand. "Anika Roeschen, Engineer
Extroadanaire."
[21:18] * GM|Markius shakes her hand quite vigerously. "Excellent! I
wasn't informed about you, but all's the better! Come on all of you,
I'll take you to the facility. You must be tired after your journey!"
[21:19] <Nikolai> "Well, it has been a long day..."
[21:19] * Anika nods.
[21:19] <GM|Markius> "Oh, that's right.  I was told by a Ms. Keirley
to give you this, she said something about not knowing if you had any
or not..."
[21:19] * Yuki` shrugs and follows. Full introductions will come
later, apparently.
[21:19] <GM|Markius> *He hands Raoul a large pouch that contians 2000
gil for each of you.
[21:19] <Nikolai> "Ooh..."
[21:20] * Raoul takes a coin, flips it.
[21:20] <Raoul> !roll 1d2
[21:20] <Highwind> Raoul - 1d2: 1 ( Total: 1 )
[21:20] <Raoul> "Heads. Good for us."
[21:21] * Raoul passes the cash out equally.
[21:21] * Nikolai smiles. "Every little bit helps."
[21:21] * Anika shoves it in her bag. "Thanks."
[21:22] * Yuki` takes a quick check of the money, and her eyes
widen. "...I haven't seen that much money in years..."
[21:23] * Nikolai turns with a bright expression to Anika. "So,
Anika! What sort of sciences have you studied?"
[21:23] * Yuki` quickly puts the money away safely.
[21:24] * GM|Markius looks around. "Well, if it's not a big deal, I
figured you could use a little more. Ms. Keirley only wanted to give
you half of that."
[21:24] * Anika still looks a little stunned from the amount of money
handed to her. She's //never// seen that kind of money on her
life. "Sciences? Oh, umm. Just what they taught in school."
[21:26] <Anika> (( *in ))
[21:27] <GM|Markius> "Well, if that's everything, I would love to
show you where we'll be putting this together, and you guys can spend
the night."
[21:28] <Nikolai> "That sounds excellent, Mr. Markius."
[21:28] * ElementalKnight has joined #I-DEMON
[21:28] * ChanServ sets mode: +o ElementalKnight
[21:29] * ElementalKnight_ has joined #I-DEMON
[21:29] <GM|Markius> ((/me watched EK multiply))
[21:29] <ElementalKnight_> ((Gr.))
[21:30] <ElementalKnight_> <Raoul> "We would appreciate the
accomidations; and I, for one, will appreciate seeing this marvel
rise and be sailed."
[21:30] * Raoul has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[21:30] * Yuki` nods to Markius. "It would be be interesting to see
that."
[21:31] * Anika gets that same excited look. "That would be
incredible."
[21:31] <GM|Markius> "Excellent!  Now, if you'll all follow me, I'll
take you through the market and on to the facility!"
[21:31] * ElementalKnight has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[21:32] * Nikolai follows Markius, while looking to strike up a
conversation with Anika.
[21:32] <GM|Markius> ((I'd like to call it here.  I need to do some
serious plotting for the next couple sessions.  Is that allright with
you guys?))

[19:04] <GM|JonB> *The next day dawns, bright and cheerful.  The
birds are singing, the chocobos are...  'bo-ing.  Time for breakfast!
[19:04] * Chele has joined #I-DEMON
[19:05] * Nikolai looks at a menu, eagerly comparing Theran fare with
Earth standards.
[19:05] * Yuki` wakes up a bit early, taking a couple nice deep
breaths... then coughing for a bit. Least it's only some slight
coughing as she gets herself cleaned up somewhat.
[19:05] * Kuleno is still angry over the lack of raw meat. He knows
they eat it cooked, but he shouldn't have to suffer like they do.
[19:06] * Raoul sniffs at the air, wondering at the different spices.
He looks forward to a new meal on a new day!
[19:06] * Anika yawns, stretching.
[19:06] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|Aede
[19:06] * Yuki` is ready soon enough, but she waits for Anika to get
ready before heading downstairs for the food.
[19:07] * GM|Aede comes down the stairs, yawning as she
does. "Morn.." she manages to mutter as she stumble-walks to the bar.
[19:07] * Anika doesn't take long to get ready, and is soon wide
awake and ready for breakfast.
[19:08] * Yuki` heads down with Anika, then.
[19:08] * Nikolai smiles politely at Aeda. "Good morning." He then
turns to Raoul.
[19:08] * Kuleno grunts in acknowledgement of the others.
[19:08] * Raoul nods, sits, opens a menu. You can see the gears shake
off the night's rust as he switches from thinking in Azragi to Common.
[19:08] <Nikolai> "So, since I told you most of what I know about
televisons, would you mind if I asked you a few things about magic
here in Thera?"
[19:09] <Kuleno> (( BRB ))
[19:09] * Yuki` gives a slight nod to the others, then gets right
into ordering something light and lots of water to go with it.
[19:09] * Raoul blinks. "I... can attempt. But be forewarned: my
knowledge of magic is lacking, compared to a true mage."
[19:10] * Nikolai smiles. "That's quite alright. I only have a few
basic questions."
[19:10] <GM|Aede> "You O.K. Yuki?  I know a healing mage in town who
ows me a few favours.  They can take a look at you."
[19:11] * Anika listens to the conversation curiously, while
preparing to order a big, hearty breakfast. High metabolism, y'know.
[19:11] <Raoul> "Then ask, and I will answer to the best of my
ability. And I will attempt a foray against one of these 'omelettes'.
Their composition intrigues me."
[19:11] * Yuki` shakes her head. "If you want... I tried that before,
they found nothing."
[19:12] * GM|Aede pauses, mouth open. "... Ah. O.K. then."
[19:12] <Nikolai> "Mainly, how common is it for one to show aptitude
in Magic? Is it a random talent, or can anyone be trained to some
extent?"
[19:13] * Yuki` goes back to drinking her water and listening in.
[19:13] * Kuleno probably couldn't tell these strangers any of what
he knew about his tribal magic. Not that he'd really want to.
[19:14] <GM|Aede> "Hey, Raoul!  Don't forget to confuse the poor guy
with pseudo-magic, like mine!"
[19:14] <Raoul> "It is much like swimming in that regard. Anyone can
learn the absolute basics - staying afloat on one's back, the hound-
stroke - but truly advanced magic, like truly beautiful or powerful
swimming, can only be achieved by one with both great skill and
inborn talent."
[19:15] * Raoul glances at the interruption, and laughs. "Very well,
Ms. Kierly!"
[19:15] * Nikolai nods, smiling calmly- but not quite able to
completely conceal a look of hunger at this information.
[19:16] * Anika smiles brightly at Kuleno. "Good morning!" she greets
him cheerfully. She is definitely a morning person..
[19:16] <Raoul> "But it is not quite so straightforward as all that;
as in swimming, there are different styles, used to different ends.
With only a modicum of training, one with some minor magical talent
may develop their own method of swimming, uncomfortable for one truly
trained in the art.
[19:16] <Raoul> *"
[19:16] * Kuleno isn't a person, but that doesn't stop him from being
aware. Being a hunter will do that.
[19:17] <Nikolai> "Ahh. Interesting."
[19:18] * Nikolai looks satisfied. "Then it looks like my theory,
shaky as may be, isn't entirely impossible."
[19:18] * Anika 's smile falters slightly at the lack of response.
[19:18] <Raoul> ((I try to use 'person' as 'humans plus...'. But
English doesn't quite allow for the distinctions in nouns and
pronouns that this requires. Trust me, I tried, and 'anthropocity' is
a mouthful.))
[19:18] <GM|Aede> ((sentients?))
[19:19] <Kuleno> (( Don't worry, I use 'person' to include non-humans
too. I just felt like being a jerk. >.> ))
[19:19] <Raoul> ((This lesson in semantics brought to you by the
letter & and the concept tangent!))
[19:19] <Anika> (( Anika was referring to herself. >.> ))
[19:20] <Yuki`> "Sorry to interrupt, but... theory?"
[19:20] * Nikolai seems to only now notice the presence of the two
ladies they had met last night at Yuki's question.
[19:22] <Nikolai> "Oh!" Nikolai pushes his glasses up his nose. "Just
something I've been thinking about since I learned about Thera."
[19:23] <Raoul> "If this theory involves magic, Nikolai, I suggest
you do not go swimming very far out in your first forays."
[19:23] * Yuki` blinks and stays silent for a moment... "Oh, Earth,
yes. Anyway, please go on."
[19:23] * GM|Aede mutters. "Some of us get tossed in the deepend with
no warning."
[19:25] <Nikolai> "Well, I'm wondering just what the differences are
between Earth and Thera. Initially, the obvious answer is the
presence of Magic."
[19:25] * Raoul nods to Aede again, without the smile this
time. "Yes. And for those that do get so thrown, they learn to swim
very quickly and uniquely."
[19:26] * Anika doesn't need magic. She has science!
[19:26] <GM|Aede> "Then I'll tell you a story sometime, Raoul.  But
not today.  Today is work."
[19:26] <Nikolai> "It occured to me that despite my being from Earth,
a slight exposure to magical energies resulted in my being able to
manipulate them."
[19:26] * Nikolai is on a bit of a roll.
[19:27] * Raoul leans forward. "I was unaware Earth had magic -
though, if I may stretch the analogy, it is difficult for me to
imagine a desert completely void of water."
[19:27] <Nikolai> "The relative speed of this development, coupled
with the relative ease of my using these abilities, suggested to me
that its use was not always alien to humankind."
[19:27] * Kuleno grunts. "Magic everywhere."
[19:28] <Nikolai> "Actually, Raoul, I only gained said exposure due
to my proximity to the Earthside portal in White Sands."
[19:28] <GM|Aede> "An oaisis then, to keep up the analogy>
[19:28] <GM|Aede> ?"
[19:28] * Anika is happily stuffing her face while she listens to the
conversation.
[19:29] <Nikolai> "More like a pipeline."
[19:29] <Raoul> "Indeed... Or, perhaps, a river."
[19:29] * Raoul and Nikolai, apparently, share brainwaves.
[19:29] * Kuleno wonders why they're still talking about his. His
statement explained everything there was to know on it.
[19:30] <Nikolai> "In any case, I'm not about to leap to conclusions
just yet. Conjecture is useful, but its no Philosophy."
[19:30] * GM|Aede thuds down the last of her drink. "This is fun, and
interesting, but we do have stuff to do. The train will be arriving
soon, and I'd rather not try to exaplin to people why you missed it."
[19:31] <Yuki`> "...I don't know if this 'river' works for everyone
on both worlds."
[19:31] * Kuleno stands up and holds his staff in one hand. "Then go."
[19:32] <Yuki`> "But yes, Aede has a point."  Yuki stands up and
takes one last bite.
[19:32] * GM|Aede walks over to the door. "Don't worry about tickets,
or that. I've got you all covered."
[19:32] * Nikolai stands, having eaten a croissant at some point
during his little speech.
[19:32] * Raoul hurredly - and most un-princedly - gobbles down his
breakfast.
[19:32] * Anika shoves a big bite in her mouth and stands up,
brushing crumbs off her front.
[19:33] * Kuleno takes the first step outside. He thinks it's safe to
say he's the most intimidating one of the bunch.
[19:33] <GM|Aede> ((No arguments))
[19:33] <Raoul> ((Indeed. <.<))
[19:33] * GM|Aede waits for everyone to get ready, before leading the
way to the train station.
[19:34] * Yuki` is pretty much ready now, so she follows.
[19:34] * Nikolai follows, trying to take in everything without
looking too tourist-y.
[19:34] * Raoul grabs his sword, and jogs out the door. It takes
practice to do that without cutting your calves!
[19:35] * GM|Aede nudges Raoul. "Watch out for Nikolai. He talks
faster than he thinks."
[19:36] * Raoul resists the urge to nudge back. "I know I have been
guilty of that very sin before. Do you think he needs much watchign
after?"
[19:36] * Nikolai pretends not to hear that comment, quietly filing
it away.
[19:36] <GM|Aede> "Until he stops dropping the word Earth every
second sentence, yes."
[19:37] <Raoul> "...Ah."
[19:38] * Raoul says no more, and jogs a bit more to keep up on the
way to the train.
[19:38] <GM|Aede> *The Trainstation is new.  Built in the past couple
years to service the Portal, and ancilliary services, it still has
that 'fresh' feeling to it.  There is no train currently in the
station, but a quick look will reveal one is due today, and very soon.
[19:38] * Kuleno runs one large, furred paw over his staff, gently
scoring it with one claw as he does so.
[19:40] * Nikolai takes some time to observes Kuleno, quietly
wondering at the nature of this rather large erstwhile teammate, and
what boot camp churned HIM out.
[19:41] * GM|Aede produces five tickets from a pocket. She hands one
to each of you. "Allright. I'll see you off, as I have other things
to do myself." Again she reaches into her pockets, and comes up with
a small, technical device. "Here's a Radio-Demon for you, Nikolai.
You can use it to call your friends back on Earth. Use only in
emergencies. Is. That. Understood?"
[19:41] * Kuleno makes no visible notice of Nikolai's observation,
but instead continues his scoring.
[19:41] * Yuki` looks at the ticket for a bit, but tries to sneak a
look at the Radio-Demon.
[19:42] * Nikolai smiles at Aede. "Of course, Ms. Keirley."
[19:42] * Raoul examines the ticket, mostly. The script is much less
florid than any similar document back home - and, of course, the
Azure Islands don't do much in the way of trains.
[19:43] * Nikolai pockets the Radio somewhere on the inside of his
long coat.
[19:43] <GM|Aede> *In the distance, a plume of smoke appears.  The
train is early, it seems.
[19:44] * Anika has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[19:45] <GM|Aede> ((Ack!))
[19:46] <Raoul> ((?))
[19:47] <Kuleno> (( Her battery died. She'll be right on. ))
[19:47] * Anika has joined #i-demon
[19:47] <GM|Aede> ((Ahh.  There you are!))
[19:47] * Anika is now known as Melo
[19:47] * Melo is now known as Anika
[19:47] <Anika> (( Battery died suddenly. ))
[19:47] <GM|Aede> ((Plug it in!))
[19:48] * Nikolai extends a hand to Aede, still smiling
earnestly. "Thank you very much for your help, Ms. Keirley. I'm sure
we'll do just fine."
[19:48] <Kuleno> (( brb again >.< ))
[19:48] <Anika> (( I did. Died will I was looking for the charger.
>.> ))
[19:49] <GM|Aede> "I hope so."  She shakes the hand cooly.
[19:50] <GM|Aede> *The train slowly pulls up, and your passenger car
is about 2/3 the way to the back.  It'll leave in about 20 minutes.
[19:50] * Nikolai walks on, ticket in hand.
[19:51] * Raoul begins to walk in, but pauses for a moment, and bows
to Aede. "Fare well, Ms. Kierly. I appreciate the assistance you have
provided."
[19:51] * Kuleno has nothing to do in this town. On the train he goes.
[19:52] * GM|Aede bows in return. "Of course. I hope to see you well
in the future."
[19:53] * Anika trails behind Yuki, wherever she goes.
[19:53] * Yuki` gives a slight bow to Aede, then gets on the train
herself. When she gets on and Aede is out of sight, she relazes just
a little bit.
[19:53] <Yuki`> ((*relaxes ))
[19:54] * GM|Aede sees the group get on the train, and relaxes a bit
herself. She turns, and finds a place to sit, while waiting for the
train to leave.
[19:55] * GM|Aede is now known as GM|JonB
[19:56] <GM|JonB> *The train car is oddly standard.  A single
corridor runs the length of the car on one side, with private rooms
on the other side.  Only one of the four is occupied, the door locked.
[19:57] * Kuleno opts to lean on his staff rather than take a seat.
[19:58] * Yuki` takes a deep breath. "Which room?"
[19:58] * Raoul checks his ticket. "I presume we are again segregated
by gender."
[19:58] <Nikolai> ((How long is the train ride supposed to be?))
[19:58] * Kuleno has chosen no room. He's apparently appointed
himself protector of the group.
[19:58] <GM|JonB> ((ABout 7 hours.  There are a few stops to make, as
it's not an express train.))
[19:59] <Kuleno> (( Better question: how many people to a room? ))
[19:59] * Nikolai shrugs, and walks into the room at the far end of
the corridor.
[20:00] <GM|JonB> ((It could seat 6.))
[20:01] * Kuleno motions to the one Nikolai entered. "In."
[20:02] * Raoul blinks. "If you insist."
[20:02] <Yuki`> "Alright."  Yuki walks into that room and takes a far
seat, by the window,
[20:03] * Nikolai takes a seat, and looks around the room.
[20:03] * Anika doesn't sit by next to Yuki, but instead takes
another window seat.
[20:04] <GM|JonB> *Oddly enough, you can see Aede out the window.
She appears to be taking a nap.
[20:04] <Nikolai> "So. If I recall correctly... Yuki, and Anika,
right?"
[20:04] * Nikolai points to each in turn.
[20:04] <Anika> "That's us."
[20:04] * Yuki` takes a very wuick look outside, then back into the
cabin. "Yes, I'm Yuki. And you?"
[20:05] <Nikolai> "Nikolai Cadmus, at your service."
[20:06] * Yuki` bows slightly. "Yes, a pleasure." She suppresses a
cough. >_>
[20:07] * Anika does not bother with such formalities.
[20:07] * Kuleno waits until the cabin fills up, or the train to
start moving, whichever comes first. He makes note of each person
that came in, then enters the room with the others.
[20:08] <GM|JonB> *The train starts moving before anyone else enters
your car.
[20:08] * Kuleno makes note of no one. Good, makes things easier.
[20:08] * Kuleno does not take a seat, however. His staff is enough.
[20:10] * Raoul settles in, sheathed sword stuffed between seat and
wall so he can actually sit down.
[20:10] <GM|JonB> *The train picks up speed, and slowly pulls out of
the station.  It'll be about 7 hours, give or take, to reach Anshan.
[20:12] <GM|JonB> *A few minutes later, you hear the conductor come
along, asking for tickets.
[20:13] * Nikolai has his ready, and hands it to the conductor when
he comes by.
[20:13] * Raoul examines his again, and hands it over when asked.
[20:13] * Yuki` quietly takes out her ticket for the conductor, only
taking a look at the conductor himself when he asks for it.
[20:14] <GM|JonB> *The conductor is a non-descript Elvann, who stamps
the tickets and moves on.
[20:14] * Anika begins checking her pockets, forgetting which one she
shoved it in. It takes a minute, but she eventually produces it.
[20:17] <Raoul> ((An accurate simulation of the quiet of a
trainride...))
[20:17] <GM|JonB> ((I'm working on it!))
[20:17] <Kuleno> (( I was about to nod off, it was so life-like. ;) ))
[20:18] <GM|JonB> *The train pulls up to speed, the sound of the
distant engine is fairly quiet.  So, make your awareness checks!
[20:18] <Raoul> !roll 1d100
[20:18] <Highwind> Raoul - 1d100: 1 ( Total: 1 )
[20:18] * Raoul is aware of the universe, and all things therein.
[20:18] <Yuki`> !sugar
[20:19] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[20:19] <Nikolai> !sugar
[20:19] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d100: 42 ( Total: 42 )
[20:19] <GM|JonB> ((No Sugarlips))
[20:19] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[20:19] <Highwind> Kuleno - 1d100: 51 ( Total: 51 )
[20:19] <Yuki`> ((Whoops. No Sugralips. -_-))
[20:19] <Kuleno> (( Harsh mistress. ))
[20:19] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[20:19] <Highwind> Nikolai - 1d100: 98 ( Total: 98 )
[20:19] <Nikolai> ((sweeeeet))
[20:19] <Yuki`> ((Fail by 7.))
[20:19] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[20:19] <Highwind> Anika - 1d100: 88 ( Total: 88 )
[20:19] <Kuleno> (( Pass by 26. ))
[20:19] <Anika> (( That's a fail by 33. ))
[20:20] * Anika is staring out the window at the passing scenery, and
is aware of nothing else.
[20:20] <GM|JonB> *Allright, those of you who passed by 10 or more
notice that every so often, somone walks by your room.  Very regular
like.
[20:21] * Raoul raises an eyebrow, but says nothing. Instead, he just
nods sideways at the door very obviously.
[20:21] * Chele has left #I-DEMON
[20:21] * Kuleno notices. He waits until the next time the person
walks by, then opens the door to catch him walking away. Just an
observational look.
[20:22] * Nikolai wonders at Raoul's sudden neck problem, and looks
to the door.
[20:22] * Anika is totally oblivious to what's going on, and
continues staring out the window.
[20:22] <GM|JonB> A very startled old man looks back at the towering
Yeti.  "Ah...  Problem?"
[20:23] <Kuleno> "Not food," he grunts.
[20:23] * Yuki` doesn't notice either. She's feeling a touch ill, but
nothing serious at all.
[20:23] * Yuki` coughs a couple times.
[20:23] * Raoul stands up. "No problem, good sir - only a question:
Is something on your mind? For you have quite the regular pace."
[20:24] * Kuleno wants to smack Raoul. He restrains himself... for
the time being.
[20:24] <Raoul> ((^_^))
[20:24] <GM|JonB> "Ah, yes.  Well, um, you see, my phsyician requires
me to get some exercise, and, well, on a train...  Well, I am sorry
if my pacng has bothered you in any way..."
[20:24] * Raoul says this in a tone between 'totally inquisitive'
and 'prince looking for someone to scold'. He doesn't scold much, so
take of it what you will.
[20:25] * Anika hears the conversation, and finally turns her
attention to her companions.
[20:26] <GM|JonB> *The old man turns and walks away, back to the
other occupied room in the car.  He knocks, and it opens for him.
[20:26] <Raoul> "I... see. But could you, perhaps, pace elsewhere?"
[20:27] * Kuleno closes the door and shoves Raoul back into his seat.
[20:27] <Nikolai> "Hmm."
[20:27] <Nikolai> "Does anyone else find it odd that we are the only
passengers on this train, aside from those in the other room?"
[20:28] * Raoul is shoved, and lands with quite the thump. He
rebounds immediately. "I beg your pardon!"
[20:28] <Kuleno> "Raoul stupid.  Raoul will not talk."
[20:28] * Anika giggles.
[20:29] * Raoul 's eyes narrow. "I am no scholar, but I am no fool
either. I suggest you rescind your statement with *haste*."
[20:29] <Nikolai> "Kuleno... could you please cut Raoul some slack?"
[20:30] * Nikolai stands between Raoul and Kuleno, perhaps foolishly.
[20:30] * Yuki` looks up. "I think I missed something."
[20:31] * Kuleno growls. He repeats his previous statement, adding
on "Raoul wants everyone to die."
[20:31] <Nikolai> "Kuleno. Raoul may have acted hastily, but thats a
bit much to heap on him."
[20:32] * Nikolai looks up at the Yeti, his eyes even and calm.
[20:33] * Raoul refrains from continuing the conversation. He thought
he acted with some modicum of honor.
[20:33] <Nikolai> "Now. If I understand you correctly, do you detect
a threat from those other passengers?"
[20:34] * Kuleno narrows his eyes and says no more. Raoul has
retreated from the battle.
[20:34] * Nikolai sighs.
[20:35] <GM|JonB> ((What?  No party infighting?  You guys....  ;) ))
[20:35] * Raoul lowers his voice, then, if the argument is changing
direction. "Yes. I suspect that fellow of being a spy - no simple
passenger would pace with such regularity."
[20:35] * Yuki` sighs as well, and mutters in Hino "This short, and
we're already at each other's throats. I hope Ms. Kierley knows what
she's doing..."
[20:35] <Nikolai> "Alright. If nobody has any objections, I propose
we quickly and quietly move to the next room over."
[20:36] <Nikolai> ((are there rooms on the other side of the hall, or
just one row?))
[20:37] <GM|JonB> ((Just the one row.))
[20:37] * Nikolai looks across the assembled faces, trying to discern
said objections.
[20:38] * Yuki` nods slightly to Nikolai.
[20:38] * Anika shrugs.
[20:38] * Kuleno steps out first. He's the one closest to the door,
after all.
[20:38] <Raoul> "Acceptable."
[20:38] * Nikolai follows closely after Kuleno.
[20:39] <GM|JonB> ((So, the party is moving down one room?))
[20:39] <Nikolai> ((Seems so.))
[20:39] <Raoul> ((Indeed.))
[20:39] <GM|JonB> ((huh))
[20:39] <Nikolai> ((Assuming the next one isn't the locked one. In
which case we'd prolly go to the next.))
[20:40] <GM|JonB> ((Nah, it was the first one that was locked up.))
[20:40] <Kuleno> (( So what's the 'huh' for? ))
[20:41] <GM|JonB> ((/me scribbles notes on his GM notepad of DOOM))
[20:41] * Kuleno keeps an eye out for the other door to open.
[20:42] * Nikolai stands upon entering the next room, and waits for
the others to enter as well.
[20:42] * Yuki` heads to the other room, taking a look out the window
behind her as she leaves.
[20:43] * Anika hops up and follows behind Yuki.
[20:43] * Raoul takes his sword, and brings up the rear.
[20:43] * Nikolai speaks in a quiet, calm voice.
[20:44] <Nikolai> "Alright. I think we can act on the assumption that
that old man was a spy. Which could mean a few things."
[20:45] <Anika> "...Maybe he was just an old man taking a walk. Why
should we jump to that conclusion?"
[20:45] <Kuleno> "Caution saves lives," he grunts.
[20:45] <Yuki`> "He does have a point."
[20:46] <Raoul> "I submit we have more reason to be cautious than the
average band of travelers."
[20:46] <Nikolai> "If he doesn't leave his room again, fine. But if
he does, I think Kuleno should... invite him in here, where we can
ask him a few pointed questions."
[20:47] <GM|JonB> ((Good lord.  This party is planning on mugging an
old man for doing calesthetics...))
[20:47] <Kuleno> (( I've done no such thing. <.< ))
[20:47] <Anika> (( I told them they were being too paranoid. <.< ))
[20:47] <Yuki`> "Even if he is a spy, that'll just bring on more
attention we don't need."
[20:48] <Nikolai> "Otherwise, we wait and watch. If he doesn't come
back out, then we may need to try and listen in on that room."
[20:48] <Anika> "I don't see how him walking by does any harm, even
if he is a spy. It's not like we were //talking// about anything."
[20:48] * Kuleno isn't particularly paying attention. He's listening
towards the door.
[20:48] <Nikolai> "Attention from whom, Yuki? The only ones aboard
besides staff are us and them."
[20:48] <Raoul> ((To be fair, we're not plannign on murdering him
yet! And as long as we're acting better than Luthien, we're good.))
[20:49] <GM|JonB> ((Low blow.  You do know he might be reading this
later on.))
[20:49] <Yuki`> "If there's one spy, there could be more we haven't
seen.  Or the staff might take an interest, and tell authorities.  We
can't assume anything."
[20:50] <Raoul> ((I do, but I've given him crap about it before.
Also: Hey AA!))
[20:50] * Yuki` shrugs. "If we can, we just keep our heads down and
not reveal we're anything but normal."
[20:51] <Anika> "We are assuming something, though. We're assuming he
was a spy because he was //walking//."
[20:51] * Anika is probably too naive for her own good.
[20:51] <GM|JonB> ((Yay voice of reason!))
[20:51] <Nikolai> "That would be nice, but if they are spies, the
already know we aren't normal. Which indicates a breach of security."
[20:52] <Raoul> "Yes, but the regularity is unnerving."
[20:52] <Nikolai> "And in that case, we'd be better off learning of
its nature sooner rather than later."
[20:52] * Raoul will continue to harp that point. <.<
[20:52] <Nikolai> "But you are correct, Anika. We are assuming, for
now."
[20:52] * Kuleno looks around. "Too much Earth," he grunts.
[20:52] <Nikolai> "What will decide our course of action will be
whether that old man comes back outside after saying he wouldn't."
[20:53] <Nikolai> ((brb))
[20:53] * Anika crosses her arms and watches the door.
[20:54] * Yuki` focuses back on the window to outside.
[20:55] <GM|JonB> ((Where are you all in the room?))
[20:56] <Kuleno> (( Still by the door. ))
[20:56] <Anika> (( Further in, by a window. ))
[20:56] <Yuki`> ((By the window.))
[20:56] <Nikolai> ((back))
[20:56] * Raoul sits in the middle, since the window's taken.
[20:56] <GM|JonB> (Nikolai is in the middle then?))
[20:56] <Nikolai> ((near the entrance, opposite from Kuleno.))
[20:57] <GM|JonB> ((*nod))
[20:58] <GM|JonB> ((Alright.  Do you guys want me to start the action
now, which will spill over into next week, or call it for now, and
open with a bang for Session #3?))
[20:58] <Nikolai> ((START NOW))
[20:58] <Nikolai> ((Tha night is young))
[20:58] <Raoul> ((I'm in, I suppose. I might make a snack, though.))
[20:59] <Anika> (( Either or. I'm exhausted from my trip, but I can
stay up a little longer. ))
[20:59] <Yuki`> ((I can go for another hour, potentially 2 if
necessary.))
[20:59] <Kuleno> (( Whatever. s'all good. ))
[20:59] <GM|JonB> ((So, go for it then?))
[20:59] <Nikolai> ((seems so.))
[21:00] <Anika> (( Sure. ))
[21:00] <GM|JonB> ((*ahem*))
[21:00] <Raoul> ((brb, you go ahead and set up. Gonna put puppy in
his cage for the night.))
[21:03] <GM|JonB> *A couple hours into the ride, and a couple stops
later, it doesn't seem like anyone else gets onto this car.  You're
on a long stretch of rail, running through endless plains, when the
door at the far end, the old man's room, opens.  Kuleno, being
paranoid, hears some people converse quietly, then start to walk in
your direction...
[21:03] <Kuleno> (( -paranoid +cautious (I'm a hunter, dammit. :P) ))
[21:03] * Nikolai looks purposefully at Kuleno.
[21:03] * Anika has her head back against the seat, and is snoring
quietly.
[21:04] <GM|JonB> *It is coming on lunch, so if he does decide to
take a peek, he sees the old man, along with a middle-aged woman
coming down the hall.  They appear to be talking about getting
something to eat, and pass by your room.
[21:04] * Yuki` is awake, and looking around now and again. She's
passing the time by studying the landscape.
[21:04] <Nikolai> "..."
[21:04] * Kuleno goes down the other way and returns with food for
all.
[21:05] <GM|JonB> ((you left to go to the dining car?))
[21:05] <Kuleno> (( Sure. ))
[21:05] <GM|JonB> ((blink))
[21:05] <Nikolai> "Alright. I may have been off on this one."
[21:06] * Anika zZzZz.
[21:06] <GM|JonB> *Kuleno leaves for the dining car, leaving the
other four in the cabin.  I'll assume he knows what to get the rest
of you?
[21:06] <Yuki`> "Paranoia can be a good thing.  You just need to know
when to act on it."
[21:07] <Kuleno> (( He's seen them eat two meals two. <.< ))
[21:07] <Kuleno> (( -two +now ))
[21:07] * Yuki` just wants some water right now, mainly. Maybe with a
bit of fruit in it for her throat, but that's it.
[21:07] <Nikolai> "Hmm. The reaction I was looking for was for him to
reach our old room, and for his demeanor to change."
[21:07] <GM|JonB> *Awareness people.
[21:08] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[21:08] <Kuleno> !roll 1d100
[21:08] <Highwind> Nikolai - 1d100: 1 ( Total: 1 )
[21:08] <Highwind> Kuleno - 1d100: 84 ( Total: 84 )
[21:08] <Kuleno> (( Fail by 16. ))
[21:08] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[21:08] <Raoul> ((back))
[21:08] <Highwind> Anika - 1d100: 12 ( Total: 12 )
[21:08] <Nikolai> ((yay))
[21:08] <Anika> (( Pass by 38. ))
[21:08] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[21:08] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d100: 59 ( Total: 59 )
[21:08] <Yuki`> ((Failed by 24.))
[21:08] <Nikolai> ((CritPass by 53))
[21:08] <GM|JonB> ((EK, Awareness?))
[21:09] <Raoul> !roll 1d100
[21:09] <Highwind> Raoul - 1d100: 46 ( Total: 46 )
[21:09] <Raoul> ((sorry. Back, but with sandwhich. But that's a
fail.))
[21:10] <GM|JonB> *Kuleno, in the dining car, finds himself in line.
He doesn't see the old man, but does see a small selection of raw
meat available.
[21:10] <Anika> (( I should probably get negative mods for being
asleep. >.> ))
[21:11] <GM|JonB> Back in the passenger cabin, Nikolai can hear
something coming from behind him, through the wall...
[21:11] <GM|JonB> ((3))
[21:11] <GM|JonB> ((2))
[21:11] <GM|JonB> ((1))
[21:11] * Kuleno grunts and waits patiently.
[21:12] * Nikolai , acting on impulse, lunges forward.
[21:12] * Yuki` looks confused.
[21:12] * Anika snores loudly.
[21:12] <GM|JonB> *The wall behind Nikola crumples loudly, sending
dust flying through the air.  He's lucky, as a hand reaches through
and grabs nothing but air.
[21:13] <Kuleno> (( Do I hear anything? ))
[21:13] * Nikolai whips around, a knife clutched in one hand.
[21:13] * Yuki` jumps up and immediately takes out a knife she hid on
her body.
[21:13] <GM|JonB> ((To far away.  Sorry, you're not in this fight))
[21:13] <Raoul> ((Aw. ><))
[21:14] <Kuleno> (( Some protector I am. ))
[21:14] <GM|JonB> ((You went away.  I squealed in joy.))
[21:14] <Raoul> ((Indeed.))
[21:14] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|BadGuys
[21:14] * Anika is startled awake by the commotion. She rubs one eye
sleepily.
[21:14] <Kuleno> (( So am I totally out of the fight, or just delayed
by some rounds? ))
[21:15] <GM|BadGuys> ((Out.  Sorry.  Dining car is 3 cars back.))
[21:15] <Kuleno> (( Right, I'll just dick around in the gen. Hope
y'all don't die. ))
[21:15] * Nikolai keeps an eye on the sudden hole in the wall, and
yells about as loud as he can. "AMBUSH!"
[21:15] <GM|BadGuys> ((Hey, at least you get raw meat!))
[21:15] <GM|BadGuys> "Well damn.  Well, plan B it is."
[21:15] * Yuki` curses under her breath. "Not paranoid enough..."
[21:16] * Anika opens her pack, pulling out her crossbow, as well as
her latest invention.
[21:16] <GM|BadGuys> ((Speeds all?))
[21:16] <GM|BadGuys> !tracker
[21:16] <Raoul> ((Shall I presume I'm too far away, having not
established myself in the scene before bedding the puppy?))
[21:16] <Yuki`> ((SPD 14.))
[21:16] <Anika> (( SPD 11. ))
[21:16] <Nikolai> ((SPD 8))
[21:16] <GM|BadGuys> ((I think you're in, Raoul, as you never said
you left.  Or did I miss that?))
[21:17] <Raoul> ((No, no you didn't. SPD 8.))
[21:18] <GM|BadGuys> ((Allright, inits in a moment.  That was the
preemptive round right there.))
[21:19] <Nikolai> ((Combat Reflexes yay.))
[21:19] <GM|BadGuys> *The door to your room gets thrown open, and you
can see two people standing in the hall.  Through the new hole in the
wall, there are another pair.  Oddly enough, no old man.
[21:19] <GM|BadGuys> Battle order: Yuki:21 Mage:15 Thief A:15
Nikolai:14 Monk:12 Anika:12 Thief B:12 Raoul:12
[21:20] <GM|BadGuys> ((The Monk and a Thief are behind the wall, the
Mage and the other thief are out the door.))
[21:20] <Raoul> ((Oh good.))
[21:21] <Nikolai> ((Can we target things through the wall?))
[21:21] <GM|BadGuys> ((There is a nice hole))
[21:21] <Yuki`> ((Okay, then.))
[21:21] * Yuki` runs in for a quick slice on Thief A, if that's the
one that's behind the wall. ((Normal attack))
[21:21] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[21:21] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d100: 65 ( Total: 65 )
[21:22] <GM|BadGuys> ((hit))
[21:22] <Yuki`> !roll 1d6+36
[21:22] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d6+36: 6 ( Total: 42 )
[21:22] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[21:22] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d100: 86 ( Total: 86 )
[21:22] <Yuki`> ((And Sensor data.))
[21:22] <GM|BadGuys> ((Isn't sensor automatic?))
[21:22] <Yuki`> ((I have to hit something to get the data.))
[21:23] <Yuki`> ((But yeah, other than that it's automatic. I was
rolling for Poison.))
[21:23] <GM|BadGuys> ((Thief-A; 124/144HP, 0MP, I:Poison, R:Ice))
[21:23] <GM|BadGuys> ((Level 9, Normal Hunaoid))
[21:24] * Yuki` frowns as that magical device attached to her knife
does its thing. "Resists ice attacks, immune to poison. Pretty tough,
too."
[21:25] <GM|BadGuys> *The Mage, takes a look in the room, and sees
two men and two women.  He doesn't see a Yeti, which causes him to
grin.  "Fire!"
[21:25] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d100
[21:25] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d100: 38 ( Total: 38 )
[21:25] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d10+40
[21:25] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d10+40: 10 ( Total: 50 )
[21:26] <GM|BadGuys> *Raoul gets roasted!
[21:26] <Raoul> ((back again. Had to get out of puppy line of sight
so he'd sleep, too.))
[21:27] <GM|BadGuys> ((Burnt))
[21:27] <Raoul> ((I saw.  Yay lacking in MArm.))
[21:27] <Kuleno> (( Don't know it. Soft Target over here ))
[21:27] <Kuleno> (( knock* ))
[21:27] * Raoul takes the burn - it's not pretty, but it's not nearly
life threatening. He grabs his blade and readies for his chance.
[21:28] <GM|BadGuys> *The thief, scratched up by Yuki, shoves past
her as he reaches for Nikolai...
[21:28] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d100
[21:28] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d100: 66 ( Total: 66 )
[21:28] <GM|BadGuys> ((Is your EVA less than 13?))
[21:28] <Nikolai> ((no))
[21:29] <GM|BadGuys> The thief misses, and rocks back, trying to get
behind the larger martial artist.
[21:30] <GM|BadGuys> ((Nikolai!)
[21:31] * Nikolai eyes the Martial Artist coldly as he conjures a
chunk of burning astral metal, and sends it dirctly through the hole
said Monk so nicely made for him. Meteorite!
[21:31] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[21:31] <Highwind> Nikolai - 1d100: 45 ( Total: 45 )
[21:31] <GM|BadGuys> ((Hit!))
[21:32] <Nikolai> !roll 2d8+96
[21:32] <Highwind> Nikolai - 2d8+96: 7, 4 ( Total: 107 )
[21:32] * Ablogqwer has left #i-demon
[21:32] <Nikolai> ((No M.Arm))
[21:32] * Ablogqwer has joined #i-demon
[21:33] <GM|BadGuys> *The Monk takes the hit square in the
face.  "Oh, that's nice."
[21:34] <GM|BadGuys> He steps up to Nikolai, and stares down at the
time mage.  "There's a reason why people like you were hunted."
[21:34] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 2d100
[21:34] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 2d100: 38, 33 ( Total: 71 )
[21:34] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 2#1d6+36
[21:34] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 2#1d6+36(1): 6 ( Total: 42 )
[21:34] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 2#1d6+36(2): 4 ( Total: 40 )
[21:34] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - Total: 82
[21:34] <Raoul> ((osnap))
[21:34] <GM|BadGuys> ((Two attacks, on the Armor))
[21:35] <GM|BadGuys> ((Anika is up))
[21:35] * Anika readies her crossbow, and takes aim at the Monk.
[21:35] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[21:35] <Highwind> Anika - 1d100: 26 ( Total: 26 )
[21:36] <GM|BadGuys> ((Hit))
[21:36] <Anika> !roll 1d8+45 1d100
[21:36] <Highwind> Anika - 1d8+45: 5 ( Total: 50 )
[21:36] <Highwind> Anika - 1d100: 64 ( Total: 64 )
[21:36] <Highwind> Anika - Total: 114
[21:37] <Anika> (( GF the second roll, for Sleep Touch? ))
[21:37] <GM|BadGuys> *The monk catches the bolt, midflight, only
scratching the palm of his hand.  ((Tink!  go ahead))
[21:37] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[21:37] <Highwind> Anika - 1d100: 3 ( Total: 3 )
[21:37] <Anika> (( Nighty night! ))
[21:38] <Raoul> ((Sleep touch plus GF is made of win.))
[21:38] <Anika> (( Sadly, I only get one GF. :( ))
[21:38] <Raoul> ((Aw.))
[21:39] <GM|BadGuys> *The other thief looks at Anika.  "Ah, Abyss.
WAKE UP!"  He kicks the monk in the side, waking him before he
dropped all over one of the seats.  Raoul!
[21:39] <Anika> (( I'll go for T: Group Poison next round. ))
[21:40] <Anika> (( ...Wait. Immune. And that was a waste of a GF... ))
[21:40] * Raoul lets a little magic surround his blade, bringing
forth the barest of its essence to bear against the Mage: "Besoraa
Zulfiquar: Kotetsu!"
[21:40] <Raoul> ((to-hit with Confuse, then Curse.))
[21:40] <Raoul> !roll 2d100
[21:40] <Highwind> Raoul - 2d100: 65, 95 ( Total: 160 )
[21:41] <GM|BadGuys> ((MACC-50, MEVA?))
[21:41] <Raoul> ((Mind 74, MEva.))
[21:41] <Raoul> ((And no curse, whoo!))
[21:42] <GM|BadGuys> ((Confuse misses as well))
[21:42] <GM|BadGuys> *The mage blinks at the weird effect. "What
the...?"
[21:42] * Raoul releases a banshee's howl around the mage's head, but
it seems to pass with no effect.
[21:42] * Raoul sighs. "Rusty."
[21:42] <GM|BadGuys> End Round 1, No statuses.
[21:43] <GM|BadGuys> Battle order: Thief A:20 Anika:19 Yuki:17 Thief
B:17 Nikolai:15 Raoul:14 Monk:9 Mage:8
[21:43] <GM|BadGuys> *The Thief recovers quickly, and lunges for
Nikolai again, hands open!
[21:43] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d100
[21:43] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d100: 25 ( Total: 25 )
[21:43] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d100
[21:43] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d100: 53 ( Total: 53 )
[21:44] <GM|BadGuys> *And come back with one of Nikolai's Ethers in
his hand.  The thief curses, and tosses it to the side...
[21:45] <GM|BadGuys> ((Yay for !Steal))
[21:45] <GM|BadGuys> ((Anika, then Yuki))
[21:45] * Anika tosses her crossbow to the side and picks up the
Klapperschlange, which launches poison darts at each of the enemies
in turn.
[21:46] <Anika> !roll 4d100
[21:46] <Highwind> Anika - 4d100: 45, 65, 74, 42 ( Total: 226 )
[21:46] <Anika> (( Yeah, unless any have an evasion of 13 or lower,
those all miss. ))
[21:46] <Nikolai> "... The hell is that thing?"
[21:46] <GM|BadGuys> ((Missed!))
[21:46] * Anika shrugs. "Just something I put together."
[21:47] <Yuki`> "Works pretty well."  A pause.  "Normally."
[21:47] * Yuki` looks at what the thief did, and has a bit of an
idea. She lunges towards the Mage, and manages to get some sort of
random object from his pockets. ((Capture))
[21:47] <GM|BadGuys> *The Monk looks quite shocked.  "Good Lords, who
are you people?!?!"
[21:47] <Anika> "The darts are toxic."
[21:48] <Raoul> "We... I think the best summary would
be 'complicated'."
[21:48] <Anika> (( I am totally and completely ineffective. ))
[21:49] <Nikolai> ((ENG's walk a tough road, initially.))
[21:49] <Anika> (( I just took a lot of skills so they're all still
really low. <.< ))
[21:50] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[21:50] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d100: 97 ( Total: 97 )
[21:50] <GM|BadGuys> *The other Thief, steps in and takes a stab at
Raoul!
[21:50] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d100
[21:50] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d100: 27 ( Total: 27 )
[21:51] <Raoul> ((Oh boy.))
[21:51] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d8+24
[21:51] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d8+24: 2 ( Total: 26 )
[21:51] <GM|BadGuys> ((On the Arm))
[21:51] * Raoul knows he felt the Thief charge him. But he didn't
feel anything sharp or pointy.
[21:52] <GM|BadGuys> ((Nikolai!  Raoul!))
[21:52] * Nikolai waits a beat, waiting to see what Raoul does. That
attack looked interesting... (til' 13)
[21:53] * Raoul readies his blade, and tries the same thing again -
this time, with the Monk.
[21:53] <Raoul> ((confuse, then curse.))
[21:53] <Raoul> !roll 2d100
[21:53] * Yuki` frowns. It looks like she got next to noting from
that, basically.
[21:53] <Highwind> Raoul - 2d100: 1, 3 ( Total: 4 )
[21:53] <Raoul> ((Well then.))
[21:53] <GM|BadGuys> ((Holeee....))
[21:54] * Raoul releases a howl from his blade, and it surrounds the
Monk's head in a confusing cacaphony! But the effort drains both him
and his Ram Dao, and he looks visibly paler.
[21:54] <Raoul> ((I think I ate up everyone's criticals there.
Sorry.))
[21:54] <Raoul> ((Please tell me the Monk it's I: Confuse.))
[21:54] <Raoul> ((*isn't))
[21:55] <GM|BadGuys> ((Nope.  Just looking up the status right noe.))
[21:55] * Nikolai observes this carefully before turning his full
attention to hurling another Meteorite at the Mage.
[21:55] <Nikolai> !roll 1d100
[21:55] <Highwind> Nikolai - 1d100: 69 ( Total: 69 )
[21:55] <GM|BadGuys> ((Hit!))
[21:55] <Nikolai> !roll 2d8+96
[21:55] <Highwind> Nikolai - 2d8+96: 8, 6 ( Total: 110 )
[21:56] <GM|BadGuys> The Mage takes the shot right to the chest, and
is blown back out of the room and across the hall.  Nice shatter
pattern on the glass he hit though...
[21:56] <Nikolai> ((Please note CoH))
[21:57] <GM|BadGuys> ((Noted.  Not down.  SoS))
[21:57] <GM|BadGuys> The Monk looks very confused...
[21:57] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d8
[21:57] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d8: 7 ( Total: 7 )
[21:57] <Nikolai> ((Or, CoM. Always get those confused.))
[21:57] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d8
[21:57] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d8: 2 ( Total: 2 )
[21:58] <GM|BadGuys> ((Stop rolling Recover _Blank_))
[21:58] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d8
[21:58] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d8: 6 ( Total: 6 )
[21:58] <GM|BadGuys> The monk takes a swing at...
[21:58] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d4
[21:58] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d4: 4 ( Total: 4 )
[21:58] <GM|BadGuys> The second thief!
[21:58] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 2d100
[21:58] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 2d100: 20, 67 ( Total: 87 )
[21:58] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 2#1d6+36
[21:58] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 2#1d6+36(1): 3 ( Total: 39 )
[21:59] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 2#1d6+36(2): 6 ( Total: 42 )
[21:59] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - Total: 81
[21:59] <GM|BadGuys> *Who takes it, but still stands.
[21:59] <GM|BadGuys> The mage, stands up, and gasps out 'Cura!', as
his wounds recover.
[22:00] <Kuleno> (( ... What the... Alright, I'm glad I'm not in this
fight. ))
[22:01] <GM|BadGuys> End of Round 2.  Confuse ticks to 3.
[22:01] <GM|BadGuys> ((And time for the session is over.  Shall we
keep going?))
[22:01] <Anika> (( Yeah. Finish combat. ))
[22:01] <Yuki`> ((I can go for a little longer.))
[22:01] <Kuleno> (( I have some serious issues here. ))
[22:01] <Raoul> ((I think we should at least finish the fight... But
I haven't much to do tomorrow.))
[22:01] <Kuleno> (( But I don't matter, since I'm not there. ))
[22:02] <GM|BadGuys> ((Alright, I'll try and make this fast.))
[22:02] <GM|BadGuys> Battle order: Yuki:22 Thief B:17 Anika:14
Raoul:13 Mage:12 Thief A:12 Monk:10 Nikolai:9
[22:02] * Yuki` looks at that mage. "Crap... healer." She tries to
slice at the mage. (Normal attack)
[22:02] <Yuki`> !roll 1d100
[22:02] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d100: 70 ( Total: 70 )
[22:03] <Yuki`> ((-_-))
[22:03] <Yuki`> ((Hit, I hope?))
[22:03] <GM|BadGuys> ((Yep))
[22:03] <Yuki`> !roll 1d6+36 1d100
[22:03] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d6+36: 5 ( Total: 41 )
[22:03] <Highwind> Yuki` - 1d100: 47 ( Total: 47 )
[22:03] <Highwind> Yuki` - Total: 88
[22:03] <Yuki`> ((Poison misses. Sensor data?))
[22:04] <GM|BadGuys> ((Red Mage, Level 10, Normal Human, 42/120 HP,
85/120 MP  No immunities))
[22:05] <Yuki`> "The mage is injured, but still has a lot of magic
left.  Not immune or resistant to a thing."
[22:06] <GM|BadGuys> The thief pushes past Raoul, and goes for
Nikolai!
[22:06] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d100
[22:06] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d100: 41 ( Total: 41 )
[22:06] <GM|BadGuys> !roll 1d100
[22:06] <Highwind> GM|BadGuys - 1d100: 46 ( Total: 46 )
[22:07] <GM|BadGuys> The Thief grabs Nikolai, and rips away...  The
metal tube that contains the airship blueprints.  "I HAVE IT RUN!"
[22:07] <GM|BadGuys> ((Anika, Raoul))
[22:07] <Yuki`> "..."
[22:07] <Yuki`> "Never mind, get the thief!"
[22:07] <Raoul> Agreed/
[22:07] <Raoul> *""
[22:07] * Raoul brings his sword around, lunging at the thief!
[22:08] <Raoul> !roll 1d100
[22:08] <Highwind> Raoul - 1d100: 16 ( Total: 16 )
[22:08] <Anika> (( Uhh... ))
[22:08] <GM|BadGuys> ((Anika first!))
[22:08] * Anika fires a Sleep Bolt at the thief!
[22:08] <Raoul> ((Of course, after you. Sorry. <.<))
[22:08] <Anika> !roll 1d100
[22:08] <Raoul> ((But I'm keeping that crit.))
[22:08] <Highwind> Anika - 1d100: 55 ( Total: 55 )
[22:09] <GM|BadGuys> ((/me notes he doesn't have Anika's sheet.
ACC?))
[22:09] <Anika> (( 90. ))
[22:09] <GM|BadGuys> ((Hit.  Roll for status))
[22:09] <Anika> !roll 1d8+45 1d100
[22:09] <Highwind> Anika - 1d8+45: 8 ( Total: 53 )
[22:09] <Highwind> Anika - 1d100: 76 ( Total: 76 )
[22:09] <Highwind> Anika - Total: 129
[22:10] <Anika> (( Status misses. ))
[22:10] <GM|BadGuys> ((Roll that damage, Raoul!))
[22:10] <Raoul> !roll 1d10+44,200%
[22:10] <Highwind> Raoul - 1d10+44,200%: 8 ( Total: 104.0 )
[22:10] <Raoul> ((^_^))
[22:11] <GM|BadGuys> And the Thief drops, his spine severed by the
blow!  ((It also leaves a nice trail of blood...))
[22:11] <GM|BadGuys> The Mage sees this go down, and snarls.  "We're
leaving!"  Out of a pocket, he tosses a small device into the room...
[22:12] * Raoul flicks the blood off. "I suggest you do."
[22:12] * Anika immediately inspects said device.
[22:12] <GM|BadGuys> And the Flash-Bang goes off.
[22:13] * Anika does not, apparently.
[22:13] <GM|BadGuys> When the smoke clears, the remaining three have
vanished, leaving you with a ruined room, and a dead body on the
floor.
[22:13] <Anika> (( Once again, I'm useless. ))
[22:13] <GM|BadGuys> ((I want to call it here guys, and pick up next
week.))
[22:13] * Yuki` tries looking away from the flash-bang. And misses
their escape.
[22:13] <Yuki`> "..."
[22:13] <Kuleno> (( Not as useless as the large, intimidating Yeti
hunter with no hearing, apparently. ))
[22:13] <Yuki`> "Damn it."
[22:13] * Nikolai immediately searches the unlucky thief for the tube.
[22:14] * Anika plops down on the floor, sitting with her legs
crossed, and sighing.
[22:14] <GM|BadGuys> *You find it.  It's got a large rent in it, but
it still looks O.K.
[22:14] * Raoul sheathes his blade, and breathes a sigh of relief as
the color comes back to his skin.
[22:13] * Nikolai sighs, and pockets it. "Well. Glad thats over with."
[22:13] * Yuki` looks around. "We need to get away from this car,
now."
[22:14] <GM|BadGuys> ((That's it for tonite.  XP and GV in a moment.))
[22:14] * Anika picks herself up, tossing her things back into her
pack.
[22:15] <GM|BadGuys> ((800 XP for everyone, Kuleno included.  548Gil
for each as well.))
[22:15] * GM|BadGuys is now known as GM|JonB
[22:15] <Anika> (( ... ))
[22:16] * Nikolai is now known as Django
[22:16] <Anika> (( We don't even come close to levelling? ...How did
we get more last session, with no combat? ))
[22:16] <Kuleno> (( Do tell when the logging stops. ))
[22:16] <GM|JonB> ((Sorry.  Youre' right.  I forgot to multiply...))
[22:17] <Raoul> ((Oh good.))
[22:17] <GM|JonB> ((2000 XP, and 767 Gil))
[22:17] <GM|JonB> ((Logging off.))

[19:03] <GM|JonB> * Welcome to Leaftown.  5 years ago, it wasn't very
important, save for being the headquarters of the local Resistence Cell.
Today, it's a different story.  Almost a small city, Leaftown is known to the
highest levels of power as the Theran side of the Earth/Thera portal.
[19:04] <GM|JonB> Some people are here as official representatives of thier
government.  Others are here because of a chance encounter with the powers of
the I-DEMON.  Some have no business being here, except it's thier business.
[19:05] <GM|JonB> On the outskirts of town, hidden from direct view of the town
itself, is the portal itself.  Most of the time, it is inactive, but today is
different.
[19:05] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|AedeKeirley
[19:06] * GM|AedeKeirley paces back and forth just on her side of the threshold
of the portal. A woman shy her middle ages, she radiates annoyance quite
clearly. She looks over at the man standing just behind her, one Raoul, of the
Beit Islands.
[19:07] <GM|AedeKeirley> "You guys just had to do this while I was in town,
didn't you?  You know I don't like being around active portals anymore.  Too
many headaches."
[19:07] * Raoul bows his head slightly; no sense in agitating the agitated
Earth-lady any more than she is. "My apologies. I think."
[19:07] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((I'll get around to the rest of you in due course.
Hold your horses and applause please.
[19:07] <Raoul> ((Oh. My bad!))
[19:08] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((THWACK!  Aede still isn't know as being from Earth.))
[19:08] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((Lady of the Earth would be acceptable, her being a
Geomancer and all.))
[19:09] <GM|AedeKeirley> "No.  You're right.  I won't blame you.  I'll blame
Dias.  Apparently he's sending some kid over by the name of Nikolai with the
agreed stuff.  Not that he'd tell me what it is."
[19:09] <Raoul> ((Don't mind me, mixing up secrets old and new. Feel free to
retcon to interpret as Geomancer; Raoul has a healthy respect for magic.))
[19:10] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((So RetConned!  Move on!))
[19:10] <Raoul> "Ah. Secrecy for its own sake?"
[19:12] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Right.  Aside from the fact that I just spent three
months chansing down a Portal-Ghost for him, while these negotiations were
taking place.  He had better send strawberries as well, or the next time I see
him..."
[19:12] <GM|AedeKeirley> *She lets the threat hang in the air as the world
begins to ripple in place.
[19:13] <GM|AedeKeirley> * On the other side of some invisible line, the world
beigns to collapse in on itself, folding out and being replaced seamlessly with
a vision from another world.  Earth.
[19:14] <GM|AedeKeirley> * On the otherside, another young man waits.  At some
unseen or unheard command, he begins to walk across the threshold of the
portal, slipping out of one reality, and into another.
[19:14] * GM|AedeKeirley glares at the new arrival. "Nikolai. Right?"
[19:16] <Raoul> ((...))
[19:17] * Nikolai smiles pleasantly, holding his cargo under one arm. "Indeed.
Nikolai Cadmus. And you?" Nikolai extends a hand to this apparently
authoratative woman.
[19:17] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Aede Keirley.  This is Lord...  Or is it His Grace?
Whatever.  He's Raoul."
[19:18] <Raoul> "Please, titles are cumbersome, and too malable
besides. 'Raoul' will do fine."
[19:19] * Nikolai extends a hand similarly to Raoul, smile affixed to his
face. "Pleased to meet you, sir."
[19:20] * GM|AedeKeirley looks at the portal as it snaps shut, returning
reality, such as it is, to normal. She then takes the moment to rub her
temples. "O.K. then. You're here. You have whatever it is that's so important,
and I want to be away from here, and back in the town proper sooner, rather
than later."
[19:20] * Raoul accepts, and returns with a firm grasp. He would reply with a
diplomatic compliment or two, but Aede interrupts. >.>
[19:20] <Nikolai> "I do have several things to deliver..."
[19:20] * Nikolai pulls a vial from the inside of his long coat.
[19:21] * Raoul raises an eyebrow. Earth technology? But it looks like a plain
vial, perhaps for Potions...
[19:22] * GM|AedeKeirley looks at the thing suspiciously. "What?"
[19:22] <Nikolai> "For you, Miss Keirley. And, I beleive, this box is yours as
well."
[19:24] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Box?  She takes it from the offered hand, and
carefully opens it up.  He expression quickly turns to bliss as she pulls out a
fruit not easilly found on this world.  A strawberry.
[19:24] * Nikolai blinks at the vial in his hand.
[19:24] <Nikolai> "Oh, beg pardon..."
[19:25] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Hrm?"
[19:25] * Nikolai returns the vial, and pulls out a small metal tube.
[19:25] <Nikolai> "THIS has the blueprints."
[19:25] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Blue.. wha?"
[19:26] * Raoul looks at the tube, and takes it. "I believe this is for me."
[19:27] * Raoul pops open the top, and carefully slides out a large set of
rolled-up papers - blueprints, white drawings of incredible detail. He can't
make much of them, but that's a good sign, actually.
[19:28] <Nikolai> ((Oh, I thought both tubes had the same content. is that so?))
[19:28] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((Yep.  One was for Raoul.  The other you have to
deliver in person.))
[19:29] * Raoul rolls the papers back up, slides them back in. "Interesting,
and confounding for myself. I shall take great care of it, mister Nikolai."
[19:29] * GM|AedeKeirley swallows the rest of the fruit in her mouth before
closing the box and putting it safely away in one of her pockets. "Allrigthy
then. I have no idea what Dias is trying to pull, but I'll forgive him. This
time. Now, shall we get going into town? I don't fancy fighting off Barghests."
[19:29] * Nikolai nods to Raoul. "Glad to hear it, Mr. Raoul."
[19:31] * Raoul nods to the lady. "Agreed. I've heard they can be nasty in
groups."
[19:32] * Nikolai follows the others, taking in his surroundings.
[19:32] <GM|AedeKeirley> *SCENE CHANGE*
[19:34] <GM|AedeKeirley> * Leaftown itself is still fairly small.  Only a few
hundred people call this place home.  Most of the research concerning the I-D
is done at the nearby city of Anshan.
[19:34] <GM|AedeKeirley> *Here is basically a travelers stop, and its
importance is not openly displayed to the world.
[19:35] <GM|AedeKeirley> * There is only one major inn/tavern in town, and it
is here that two human women and a Yeti, among others, find themselves.
[19:35] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((Yuki, Anika, Kuleno!))
[19:35] * GM|AedeKeirley is now known as GM|JonB
[19:36] * Yuki` is sitting down, looking a bit better than she was back in
Hinodeumei. But just a little. "...this place has grown." *cough*
[19:36] <Anika> "You've been here before?"
[19:37] * Yuki` nods. "Once or twice. It was just a tiny, sleepy town when I
was here last time."
[19:37] * Kuleno dominates his own table somewhere near the bar. He nurses an
absurdly small cup of drink while he disheartedly eats a large plate of meat.
[19:38] * Anika allows her eyes to roam the inn, and they widen upon spotting
the Yeti. "What's that?!"
[19:39] * Yuki` takes a big drink of water- she immediately puts it down and
looks over. "..."
[19:39] * Yuki` thinks, and says somewhat calmly. "Yeti, I think."
[19:40] <Yuki`> "You really don't see them often, from what I hear."
[19:40] * Anika tries not to stare, but fails as she is fascinated by the
strange creature.
[19:40] * Kuleno makes no visible note of the staring girl as he finishes his
plate, obviously dissatisfied with the food - it's cooked.
[19:41] * Anika thinks aloud, "Wonder what it's doing here?"
[19:41] * Yuki` says to Anika in a low voice. "Probably shouldn't stare if you
can- you'll draw attention."
[19:42] <Yuki`> "...good question.  I heard they stick to the mountains mostly,
and especially nowhere near this region."
[19:42] * Yuki` shrugs. "Could be wrong though."
[19:42] * Anika forces her attention back to Yuki, only occassionaly allowing
herself to glance over at the Yeti.
[19:43] * Kuleno abruptly stands up, almost knocking over his table. He makes a
straight line to the girls' table. "Keirley."
[19:43] * Yuki` blinks in very sudden surprise, and tenses up a bit. "What?"
[19:43] * Anika jawdrops, staring at the creature in awe. "It talks?!"
[19:43] * Kuleno points to the other girl, the one that was staring. "You.
Keirley. Kuleno work."
[19:44] * Anika never fails to be amazed by the variety of creatures on Thera
and their speech.
[19:45] * Anika then realizes what it is actually saying. "Oh, no. I'm not
Keirley."
[19:45] <Kuleno> "You.  Keirley.  Project."
[19:46] <Kuleno> "You look.  You know Kuleno."
[19:46] * Anika frowns. "No. Me ANIKA. Not Keirley."
[19:46] <Yuki`> "I... I, uh, have no clue what you're talking about.  I don't
think either of us do."
[19:47] <Yuki`> "We don't know a miss Keirley."
[19:47] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|AedeKeirley
[19:47] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((A little bit more...))
[19:48] * Kuleno grunts and stomps the ground before crashing through the door
to the outside. He takes a deep stance before bellowing, "KEIR-LEEEEEEY!"
[19:48] <Kuleno> (( Go go Yeti customs. ))
[19:48] * Yuki` facepalms. "...check out early, Anika?"
[19:48] * Anika looks thoughtful. "I don't think we have to worry about
attracting attention anymore."
[19:48] <Kuleno> (( And yes, this is epic Yeti yelling, designed to travel
across mountaintops. It's *loud.* ))
[19:48] <Raoul> ((Owies. *cleans ears*))
[19:49] * GM|AedeKeirley stops. About 500 meters from the inn. "Oh Abyss! Now
what?" She breaks into a run.
[19:49] * Raoul blinks, shoulders the tube, and jogs behind her. He nods at
Nikolai in a "I guess it's time to keep up" motion.
[19:49] * Kuleno waits outside the door. He's bound to be found. It's not like
he's subtle.
[19:50] <Yuki`> "No, now we have to worry about him attracting attention."
[19:50] * GM|AedeKeirley runs up to the inn. There are new cracks in some of
the windows, and it looks like the building is resettling.
[19:50] * Nikolai hustles along after her.
[19:50] * GM|AedeKeirley looks at the Yeti. "What?"
[19:51] * Kuleno looks extremely angry at the real Keirley. "You. Keirley.
Kuleno work."
[19:51] * Yuki` drinks down the rest of her water and stands up. Then pauses
when she hears Aede.
[19:52] <GM|AedeKeirley> "And who in the name of all that's holy are you?  And
why are you here?"
[19:52] * Anika stands up as well, boldly strolling over to the Yeti.
[19:52] * Nikolai reaches into his pockets. "Is there a problem here?"
[19:52] * Kuleno bristles at the questions, looking as if he's barely able to
restrain himself from batting the woman aside. "Government," is all he grunts
after a minute.
[19:53] * Yuki` follows a bit behind Anika, trying to keep her face slightly
hidden.
[19:53] * GM|AedeKeirley blinks, looking up at the Yeti, trying to work things
out. "Gov...? Wait. Reufelgan, right? They sent someone to watch on the
delivery. AND NO ONE TELLS ME?!?!?"
[19:54] * Yuki` winces slightly.
[19:54] * Nikolai notes the older woman and young girl near the... large animal?
[19:54] * Raoul takes a half-step forward. "Madam, perhaps a moment of calm? If
you are competing with this man in a yelling contest, the situation will only
become more stressful."
[19:55] * Kuleno crosses his arms and stares down the woman. He grunts in
response to her question.
[19:55] * Anika ponders that statement. "I think he wins."
[19:56] * GM|AedeKeirley humphs once, then looks around, thinking at a furious
pace. Or just furious. "Fine. Inside. All of you. No sense in making a bigger
scene."
[19:56] * Kuleno waits for everyone else to enter first. Go ahead, try and make
him move first.
[19:56] * Yuki` steps aside, and watches the others enter. Especially Aede.
[19:57] <Yuki`> ((...wasn't he in the doorframe?))
[19:57] * Anika does as instructed, leading the group back inside.
[19:57] * Nikolai follows, still generally observing things.
[19:57] <Kuleno> (( Nope, he stepped outside. ))
[19:57] * Raoul enters last, and closes the door behind him. "Interesting
times..."
[19:57] <Yuki`> ((Oh, okay.))
[19:58] * GM|AedeKeirley doesn't really note the other two women who were at
the ... scene. Instead she points at an empty table. "Sit."
[19:58] * Kuleno opens the shut door and shoves Raoul from behind.
[19:58] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Nikolai.  Raoul.  Could wait for me for a bit, I
gotta get this straightened out.
[19:58] * Kuleno then closes the door and stands at the table. He's not fitting
in with everyone else sitting.
[19:59] <Nikolai> "Sure you can handle this on your own?"
[19:59] * GM|AedeKeirley smiles. "I have some friends." It's not a nice smile.
[20:00] * Raoul isn't entirely sure how to take this latest bit of disrespect,
but he recovers quickly enough. "She did just try to stand a yeti down." He
steps outside, next to the door. With an ear open.
[20:00] * Nikolai steps out with Raoul.
[20:00] * Yuki` waits by the door, looking a touch uncomfortable. She looks at
what Anika is doing.
[20:01] * Anika is watching the Yeti with rapt attention.
[20:02] * GM|AedeKeirley looks at the Yeti. "There are better ways of getting
my attention than screaming my name. Now," she cocks her head slightly. "What's
your name?"
[20:02] * Kuleno looks at Keirley as if she's stupid. "Kuleno."
[20:03] <GM|AedeKeirley> "See!  Much more polite.  Now, you're here to make
sure the package is delivered right?  I can understand a little caution, but
you just set a whole new standard."
[20:04] <Kuleno> "Government sent Kuleno," he grunts.
[20:05] <Kuleno> "Kuleno..." he stops talking, clearly angry at
something.  "... work for Keirley."
[20:05] * GM|AedeKeirley thinks hard. "Fine. I can see why you're here then.
Come on over." She moves to Nikolai and Raoul.
[20:06] * Raoul peeks in. "I presume we may join the conversation now?"
[20:07] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Yes."  She indicates the Yeti.  "This is Kuleno.
He's been sent to provide muscle for this trip."
[20:07] * Anika whispers to Yuki. "What are they talking about?"
[20:07] * Nikolai looks at Kuleno with guarded astonishment.
[20:08] <Raoul> "Then I praise whoever chose him; he appears more than adequate
for that task."
[20:08] * Yuki` whispers back. "Some sort of mission... I think..."
[20:08] <Nikolai> "...Indeed."
[20:08] <Yuki`> "Looks like more things are happening here than I thought."
[20:09] * GM|AedeKeirley finally notices the two women looking at them. She
leans out a little bit and smiles. "Sorry about that. No one tells me anything
on a regular basis, thinking someone else told me."
[20:09] <Nikolai> "...I know the feeling."
[20:10] * Kuleno promptly stops talking. He's said enough.
[20:10] * Yuki` looks away and nods slightly. She switches to a slight Hino
accent. "I've... known that before, miss."
[20:11] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Alright then.  Train back to Ashan doesn't leave
until tommorow morning.  So we have the rest of the evening and tonite to rest
up for the trip.  Thankfully the railhead service is regular for hte most part."
[20:11] * GM|AedeKeirley indicates the three males. "You guys get to know
eachother, as you'll be with working together until this is done."
[20:12] <GM|AedeKeirley> "I'm going to get some supper."
[20:13] * Nikolai looks between Kuleno and Raoul, then back to Aede. "Are those
two going to be joining us?"
[20:13] * Nikolai is indicating Anika and Yuki at that.
[20:14] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Us?  NoNoNo.  I'm not going with you guys.  I have my
own work to do."  She seems a little distracted by this.  "Unless there are
more suprises, it's just you, Kuleno and Raoul."
[20:14] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Those two?  I'll handle that."
[20:14] * Yuki` whispers back to Anika. "So, they'll be leaving tomorrow...
good, we can start looking then."
[20:14] <Anika> "Looking?"
[20:15] * Yuki` nods. "For that person I mentioned on the ship."
[20:15] <Nikolai> "Alright then."
[20:15] <Anika> "Oh. Right."
[20:15] * GM|AedeKeirley walks up to Yuki and Anika. "Hey, sorry about that.
Things are rought for me at the moment. I think I should blame it on it being
that time of month for me."
[20:15] * Raoul leans back to his now-fellows, "I hope we have had enough
surprises for now - at the least, that what surprises follow will be quieter."
[20:15] <Kuleno> (( ... and there's Jon breaking the TMI barrier early in the
game. Bravo, my good sir. ))
[20:15] <Nikolai> ((Good to know.))
[20:16] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((Women on women talk.  Guys but out.))
[20:16] * Kuleno looks to the other men. "Kuleno hunt."
[20:16] * Yuki` blinks. "I... do not think I needed to know that, miss, but I
do understand." And yes, back to the slight hino accent.
[20:16] <Raoul> ((*notes Aede's ToM for future reference. Is it auto-berserk?))
[20:16] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((You wish.  >< ))
[20:17] * Nikolai nods to Kuleno. "I was a student, prior to joining the
military."
[20:17] * GM|AedeKeirley blushes slightly. "Sorry. Didn't mean to say that. I'm
Aede, by the way. Aede Keirley."
[20:18] * Anika rolls her eyes. "Oh, c'mon, we're all girls here."
[20:19] <Yuki`> "It... is good to meet you, Mis- Aede.  I am Yuki."  Yuki gives
a look to Anika, and her accent slips for a split second.  "I still believe in
some decorum."
[20:19] * Raoul nods to the both of them. "I am a prince, but also a sailor at
heart."
[20:19] * GM|AedeKeirley looks Anika up and down. Some moreso than others.
[20:20] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Yuki, huh?  Hino, I would say.  Haven't been there
myself.  Been meaning to go one of these years."
[20:20] * Anika makes a face.
[20:20] <Nikolai> "A prince? Of where?"
[20:21] * Yuki` nods. "Yes."
[20:21] <Raoul> "The Azure Islands, to the south. But I am only 138th in line;
it is only an obligation. Tell me, what did you study?"
[20:21] <GM|AedeKeirley> "And your friend, I assume isn't from there either?"
[20:21] * Raoul looks at the Yeti. Then up at the Yeti. "And what did you hunt?
I wonder if it could stand up to you."
[20:22] * Yuki` nods and looks to Anika to explain.
[20:23] <Kuleno> "Food," he grunts.
[20:23] <Anika> "My name is Anika. I'm from Earth."
[20:23] <Yuki`> "..."
[20:23] <Nikolai> "Hmm. Concise."
[20:23] <Yuki`> "..."
[20:24] * GM|AedeKeirley jawdrops.
[20:24] * Anika looks back and forth from Aede to Yuki. Was she not supposed to
say that?
[20:24] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Abyss."
[20:24] * Yuki` frowns a bit and thinks to herself . o O (She actually said
that? Is she crazy?)
[20:24] * GM|AedeKeirley grabs Anika, and for good measure, Yuki as well. "Come
with ME." SHe starts to drag the two of them upstairs, where she has a room.
[20:25] * Yuki` is dragged quite readily.
[20:25] * Anika is dragged, confused.
[20:25] * Yuki` shoots a quick look at Anika.
[20:25] * Kuleno makes note of this and crosses the room. "Kuleno work." He
gestures to the two women Keirley was speaking with.
[20:25] * Nikolai watches the girls go. "So... Any cause for concern?"
[20:26] * Anika has the good grace to look ashamed.
[20:26] <Raoul> "Beyond the actions of Aede and the secrets she seems unaware
of?"
[20:26] <GM|AedeKeirley> *Upstairs, Aede practically tosses Anika into her
room, Yuki is handled far more carefully, as befitting her age.
[20:26] <Nikolai> "Of course."
[20:27] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Alright.  Earth.  Where.  When.  And you, Yuki, did
you know about this?"
[20:27] * Yuki` is very glad for the careful handling. Her back has been
feeling annoyed lately. -_-
[20:27] * Kuleno apparently is ignored. That suits him just fine. He sits at a
table and orders another round of unappetizing cooked meat.
[20:27] * Anika looks disgruntled.
[20:27] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((You can order uncooked))
[20:27] <Raoul> "I believe we will handle any physical threats adequately,
between myself and - I presume here - Kuleno... Hm."
[20:28] <Kuleno> (( Yea, but it gives me more reason to be pissed. <.< ))
[20:28] * Yuki` shakes her head and starts with the accent. "Of Earth?" She
thinks for a moment and just decides to drop it. "Rumors, that's all. Nothing
really credible."
[20:29] <Raoul> "No, I believe 'secrets' will be our concern; primarily, that
they do not result in our being torn to pieces."
[20:29] <Nikolai> "Ideally."
[20:29] * Anika crosses her arms.
[20:29] * GM|AedeKeirley looks at Yuki, fairly carefully. "I'm sorry. Have we
met before? You look familair."
[20:30] * Yuki` shakes her head. "I seriously doubt it."
[20:30] <Raoul> "Goals are important... Tell me - if it is not a horrible
imposition - are you from Earth, Nikolai?"
[20:30] <Yuki`> "The accent is fake, but I'm still from Hinodeumei, not here."
[20:31] * GM|AedeKeirley looks at Yuki a little more before dropping it. "And
you. Girl. Where are earth are you from, and when did you get here?"
[20:31] <Nikolai> "I am, Raoul."
[20:31] * Yuki` listens carefully herself.
[20:31] * Anika frowns. "What's the big deal? I'm sure a lot of people around
here are from Earth..."
[20:32] * Raoul 's face brightens. "Ah! I visited your great city 'Washington'
not long ago. It was most intriguing!"
[20:32] * GM|AedeKeirley goes a very nice shade of crimson.
[20:32] <GM|AedeKeirley> "What.  Is.  Your.  Name."
[20:32] <Nikolai> "Ah, well, I've only been there once before, when I was 14."
[20:33] <Anika> "I've told you. It's ANIKA. Anika Roeschen."
[20:33] * Anika stares at Aede defiantly.
[20:33] * GM|AedeKeirley reaches into a pocket, and whips out a small
technological device, one that has seen a lot of battering and bumping over the
years. She turns it on, and waits for a moment.
[20:34] <Anika> "What's that?"
[20:34] <Raoul> "Then I may ask many questions of you. First, something that
troubled me when I returned to Azrag Biet - How does your 'television' operate?
I learned much from it during my stay on your world."
[20:34] <GM|AedeKeirley> <Johann> *His voice comes tiny from the ID-
Radio.  "Aede.  You call..."
[20:34] <Yuki`> "...good question."
[20:34] * Anika looks at Yuki, alarmed. "What is she doing?"
[20:34] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Anika Roeschen.  She says she's from earth.  is she
one of yours?"
[20:35] <Nikolai> "Well, I'm no electrician, but I know a bit."
[20:35] <Yuki`> "...asking about you?  I'm not sure how that... thing works."
Yuki coughs a bit.
[20:35] <GM|AedeKeirley> <Johann> "Umm...  Hold on."
[20:36] * GM|AedeKeirley glares hard at Anika. "And who do you work for?"
[20:36] <Anika> "I don't work for anyone."
[20:36] <Nikolai> "Basically, a camera encodes an image into a signal."
[20:36] * Raoul nods, excitedly; he's trying to keep it composed, but it's like
a kid in a video game and unicorn store, about to learn the secrets to how
those two things are made.
[20:37] <GM|AedeKeirley> <Johann> He signs back on a few minutes later.  "Not
ours, Aede.  She went missing around the same time as an unauthorized I-D point
here on Earth.  We figured there may have been a connection, based on things we
found in her room."
[20:38] <Nikolai> "That signal is transmitted over a frequency into an
antennae, or via a satellite projector."
[20:38] * Anika goes white.
[20:38] <GM|AedeKeirley> <Johann> "Um, the rules says she's yours now.  You're
the authority on scene.  I'm gonna tell Dias that you found her."
[20:39] <Yuki`> "..."
[20:39] * Yuki` coughs some more.
[20:39] * GM|AedeKeirley claps the ID-Radio off. "O.K. These things happen. It
was an accident. Really. She's not a spy. Not from a rouge state."
[20:39] <GM|AedeKeirley> "You O.K., Yuki?  You look like you could use a drink,
and a good night's sleep."
[20:39] <Nikolai> "The television set then decodes the signal into a visible
image."
[20:40] <Yuki`> "/me coughs once or twice more.  "I'll be okay... it happens."
[20:40] * Nikolai wonders how much Raoul understands of this.
[20:40] <Anika> "Are you with the government?"
[20:41] <Raoul> "...I believe I understand. One device writes the moment and
sound down, but... not on a record. Then this written-down sound-and-movement
is mailed to the television through other devices, like chocobo-drawn mail-
carts, but that work in not-a-records."
[20:41] * Kuleno really isn't going to try and decipher what the other two are
talking about. He has disgusting meat to work through.
[20:41] <Nikolai> "...In a matter of speech."
[20:41] * Raoul blinks, and then sighs. "I do not think I fully understood your
explanation. My apologies."
[20:42] <Nikolai> "That's alright, its a bit much to grasp at once."
[20:42] <GM|AedeKeirley> "And as for you, Anika.  Here's the deal.  You work
for me now.  And I'm sorry, Yuki, that you got dragged into this as well.  I'll
keep it easy for you.  Anika.  I need another person on this group going to
Ashan to deliver some stuff, then down to Beit.  You can either go with them,
or I can send you back to earth, and deal with them.  And they will keep you
under lock and key for coming here."
[20:43] * Anika bites her lip, and looks to Yuki uncertainly.
[20:43] <Kuleno> (( brb ))
[20:43] * Yuki` sighs slightly. "I don't think we have much of a choice here,
Anika."
[20:43] * Nikolai has an idea. "You know about music boxes, right?"
[20:44] <GM|AedeKeirley> "As for you, Yuki.  Sorry.  But I'm afraid that
your ... association with Anika here is going to cause you to come along."
[20:44] * Yuki` looks to Aede. "and after that mission?"
[20:44] <Anika> "Why can't they just let me be?"
[20:44] <Yuki`> "...for how long?"
[20:45] <GM|AedeKeirley> "For this trip.  Look.  I'd love to let you go, but
there are people above me who would have my head for it.:
[20:45] <Raoul> "Yes! I have listened to many, though they never match the
richness of a true orchestra."
[20:45] * Anika sighs. "The whole reason I found my own way here was so I
didn't have to work for the government."
[20:46] <Yuki`> "Governments have a way of finding you, even if you don't want
them to."
[20:46] * GM|AedeKeirley rubs her temples again. "O.K. We got off to a bad
start with this. I need some people to even the numbers out."
[20:46] <Nikolai> "Ok! So you've seen how sound is converted to a series of
dots on a strip of metal, right?"
[20:47] <GM|AedeKeirley> "There are two Therans and a Earther downstairs, only
one of whom I actually know.  I need somone to even things up.  That would be
you."
[20:47] * Anika shrugs halfheartedly. "It'll be an adventure, I suppose."
[20:48] <Nikolai> "A camera does a similar thing to images."
[20:48] * Raoul nods. "They strike the strings in the box, and it is that
striking that produces the sound... So a 'camera' makes a metal roll that
strikes both sound-strings and picture-strings?"
[20:48] <Yuki`> ((Aede talking to Anika?))
[20:48] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((I think so))
[20:48] * Raoul makes hand-motions on the table while saying this out loud.
[20:49] <GM|AedeKeirley> "You do good things here, and we can arrange a working
parole of sorts."
[20:49] <Nikolai> "Essentially, but there's no metal roll. It is converted into
an electrical signal."
[20:49] * Anika sighs. "Alright."
[20:50] <Nikolai> "The electrical signal, and the pattern in which it is
organized, act as the dots."
[20:50] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Good.  Now, Yuki.  I have to apologize again.  I've
been told that overreaction is a bad habit of mine."
[20:50] * Raoul thinks about this for a moment, nodding his head as Nikolai
continues.
[20:51] * Anika mutters, "No kidding."
[20:51] <Yuki`> "..."  Yuki nods.  "I don't think your bosses would let me off
easily either, now that I heard of this Earth."
[20:52] <Yuki`> "...will they be keeping an eye on me after this mission, too?"
[20:52] * GM|AedeKeirley shakes her head. "I'm really sorry. But the people in
charge of this are very touchy about secrecy.
[20:52] <Nikolai> "Now, this signal is fed into a transmitter."
[20:52] <GM|AedeKeirley> "They don't like loose ends.  At all."
[20:52] * Anika scowls. "The people in charge didn't have to know anything."
[20:52] <Raoul> "Which acts as... the postman, yes? For the written
electricity."
[20:53] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Right.  You told a random stranger that you're from
Earth.  Odds of you telling the wrong person goes up quite a bit."
[20:53] <Anika> "Well, I didn't know it was such a big deal..."
[20:54] <Nikolai> "Essentially."
[20:54] * Nikolai wonders whether to broach the subject of waves travelling
through the air.
[20:54] <GM|AedeKeirley> "I think I can get away with hiding you in plain
sight, Yuki.  I got corraled into this by being hired as a guide for some of
these people from Earth quite a while ago.  If my report says you were kept in
the dark, well, they won't know better, will they?"
[20:55] <Raoul> ((So many secrets. All of them, of ourse, for everyone's
benefit.))
[20:55] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((I love this!))
[20:56] * Yuki` holds off a cough. "So keep my head down, stay with Anika, and
don't ask questions."
[20:56] <Raoul> ((Heady draught, ain't it?))
[20:57] * GM|AedeKeirley nods. "That's about it. I don't like getting more
people involved, but it'll have to do. And I'll have to ask you to be fairly
matronly towards Anika. She may need someone to keep her tounge in check."
[20:57] * Yuki` sighs. "I understand."
[20:57] * Anika glares.
[20:58] * Nikolai cracks his knuckles, for some reason. "Raoul... have you
heard about waves? Such as radio waves, and the like?"
[20:58] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Alright then.  Let's go back downstairs, and
introduce you two to the men.  For some reason, I feel better having a woman on
this."
[20:59] * Raoul grins. "I know much about waves. I sail between the islands of
my nation frequently, and have seen magic enough to watch them crash down on
foes."
[20:59] * Yuki` lets Anika go first.
[21:00] <Anika> "//A// woman?"
[21:00] * Anika begins walking out the door.
[21:01] <Nikolai> "Alright. So, much like ocean waves, there are waves
travelling through the air."
[21:01] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Don't start on that.  How old are you, anyways?  16?
18?"
[21:01] <Raoul> "Wind, yes."
[21:01] * Yuki` shrugs a bit, and follows. "I'm not offended about not being
counted."
[21:03] <Nikolai> "Not quite."
[21:04] <Anika> "Nineteen."
[21:05] <Nikolai> "Transmitters send electrical waves through the air, sort of
like ripples through a pond."
[21:05] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Lovely."
[21:05] * Raoul nods slowly, processing this. He's actually enjoying this, even
though it may make him look a little slow on the uptake. "Hm... But these
ripples are unlike those of wind, you said - does this mean you cannot feel
them?"
[21:07] <GM|AedeKeirley> *The three women walk back downstairs
[21:07] <Nikolai> "Not typically. Radiowaves and the like travel through the
body with no effect."
[21:08] <Raoul> "Ah! Much like a 'Cura' spell, then - it moves through
everything, but only for a set distance."
[21:09] <Raoul> "And for those foes in its range, it does nothing at all."
[21:09] <Nikolai> "Yes! These waves only target receivers."
[21:09] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Hey guys.  Got things sorted out.  This is Anika and
Yuki.  They'll be going with you through to Beit."
[21:10] <Raoul> "I think I begin to see. These ray-dyo waves, when they- oh."
[21:10] * Nikolai is drawing a diagram summarizing the process on the pencil
and notepad he keeps on his person.
[21:10] * Raoul stands, with a quick little nod to Nikolai, and bows to the
ladies. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance. I trust all is in order?"
[21:10] * Anika gives a small wave.
[21:11] * Yuki` bows in return.
[21:11] * Nikolai looks up, resets his glasses on his nose, and stands. "How do
you do?"
[21:11] <GM|AedeKeirley> "Anikia, Yuki, Kuleno, Nikolai, and Raoul.  You all
play nice now!"
[21:13] <Nikolai> "I see. Thank you for the help, Miss Keirley."
[21:13] * Kuleno grunts, but says nothing intelligible.
[21:14] * Yuki` nods slightly to Aede.
[21:16] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((.me looks at the time.  Anything else, or should I
call it for the night?))
[21:17] <Raoul> ((I think that'll work for now. I had fun. ^_^ Wanna get into a
scrap now, see the crud hit the fan.))
[21:17] <Nikolai> ((Nothing I gotta do, unless you count introductions.))
[21:17] <Kuleno> (( I'm just gonna sit here and look intimidating, natch. ))
[21:17] <Yuki`> ((Nothing else here really, since they've pretty much have
gotten everyone's names already.))
[21:18] <GM|AedeKeirley> ((Alrighty then.  See you next week, same ID-Time,
same ID-Channel!))

[19:26] <GM|JonB> :Palace, Beit Islands.  Coming home from a most interesting
journey into a foreign land is Raoul, one of the many princes of this land.  He
is escorted into the chambers of a senior diplomat, there to give his report
about this 'America'
[19:27] * GM|JonB is now known as GM|ibn-Mull
[19:28] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Welcome home, Prince Raoul."
[19:28] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "It is good to be welcomed back. Has anything
of note occurred while I was away?"
[19:29] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Nothing of note.  One of our cousins got married.  But
that is not why we are here.  Gossip can occur later, over supper."
[19:30] <GM|ibn-Mull> "So, tell me your impressions of this 'America' that our
northern neighbours have tried to ally themselves with.  You were taken to
thier capital, a city called 'Washington', were you not?"
[19:31] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Indeed, and a most interesting city it was.
The first reports were quite correct - technology much greater than ours, with
no magic to speak of. They have horseless carriages that move many times faster
than a chocobo, machines that carry men above the ground, and monuments
comparable - though somewhat lacking - to our own."
[19:32] <GM|ibn-Mull> "No magic?  This worries some.  For if they are capable
of such feats through science alone...?  No, that is a discussion for another
time.  Please, continnue."
[19:33] <ElementalKnight> * Raoul nods - there is much to discuss along those
lines, of a strategic nature. But for now...
[19:34] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Their weapons, what I saw of them, were as
worrisome as you already conceive. They are able to use their flying machines
to drop bombs, which - I have heard, though cannot confirm - can wipe out an
entire city with one blow."
[19:35] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Meteor, Ultima.  Those truly nighmarish spells.  But did
they only show you thier military prowess?"
[19:36] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Did they try to show you thier culture, thier history as
well?"
[19:36] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "In fact, they allowed me access to a
marvelous side-branch of their technology, the 'television'. It shows much of
their culture, through entertainment and educational plays."
[19:38] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "I have seen their chefs cook dishes favored
by America - with much enthusiasm - and what they see of their own history
as 'interesting'. Much was made of their own mythology and tales, as well as
their military history and religions."
[19:38] <GM|ibn-Mull> "They value the culinary arts?  That was not mentioned
before."
[19:39] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "I believe it is a small portion of their
population. For any obsession, there appears to be some information about it
available on the 'television'."
[19:40] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Interesting.  We must speak more of this later, about
who controls this device.  Did you meet with their leaders?  A 'Bush', his name
is?"
[19:41] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Briefly. He is... I hesitate to speak so
disparaging a thought, but he is *disturbingly* akin to Refulgans. In language,
appearance, and in outlook."
[19:42] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "To win him wholly over to our cause would
be, at best, an uphill battle."
[19:42] <GM|ibn-Mull> "This is unconfortable news, I must distress.  Perhaps
this is the reason for thier alleigance?"
[19:44] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Among others - according to the television,
their world's equivalent to us - somehow more backwards than even we may be to
America - have attacked their nation in the past. That we look and speak much
like the 'Iraq' nation may be an unfortunate twist of fate, maligning us in
their eyes."
[19:44] <GM|ibn-Mull> "I have also heard that this 'Bush' will be retiring from
his positon in the next year, this process called 'Democracy'.  Did you learn
more of it?  Our papers written by the Geomancer, Keriley, does not describe it
in detail.  Perhaps his successor may be more leiniant towards us?"
[19:44] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Patience may yet be rewarded."
[19:45] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((I thought this was India, not the Middle-East))
[19:45] <ElementalKnight> (It was more the latter than the former in my
original conception, actually.)
[19:46] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((Ah.  Cross-breed then, and say more like the ancient
Persians?))
[19:46] <ElementalKnight> (Exactly!)
[19:47] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((Coolness.  On with the politics!))
[19:48] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "The Democracy process was much confusing,
though I believe I have the basic idea understood: Every citizen is allowed to
say who they wish to lead them, from a pool of a number of candidates. The
candidates are already politically important, much like princes and princesses.
Whichever candidate has the largest number of people on his or her side wins,
and reigns for four years, when the process repeats."
[19:49] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Beyond that, it makes my head swim. There
are many exceptions and inconsistencies, and even the television could not give
a straight answer much beyond a school-child's level of understanding."
[19:49] <GM|ibn-Mull> "No familial dynasty?  Our Lord was hoping to marry one
of his neices into the ruling family of America, but this now seems impossible."
[19:51] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Ah! Bush himself is, in fact, the son of a
previous ruler. There was also some mention of a 'Kennedy' dynasty. Though
their rules are not more than a decade, they do seem to cycle in and out of
power regularly - so it may simply take a few more nieces than previously
planned."
[19:51] <ElementalKnight> (^_^)
[19:51] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Good.  Not all hope is lost then."
[19:53] <ElementalKnight> * Raoul smiles. "Indeed - as I said, it may be an
uphill struggle to gain their allegiance, though I think it not impossible at
all."
[19:53] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Tell me, on this new world, does America herself have
allies?  We know of others who have reached to Thera with the Americans,
like 'Kanada' or 'Gapan'.  Did you learn more of them?"
[19:56] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "A small amount; I was unable to visit Gapan,
but was able to speak to a Kanadian - he called himself a 'Kanuk', oddly
enough. According to him, the nations of Kanada and America are very much
aligned with one another, though they have some minor differences in
their 'democracy', and use different currencies."
[19:56] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "As he was only a citizen, I refrained from
asking him about Kanada's military prowess. I thought it might seem rude."
[19:57] <GM|ibn-Mull> "So, do not expect much of this 'Kanada' then, as they
are too close with America?  A pity.  Any representatives of other powers?"
[19:58] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "America seemed little concerned with the
current actions of is neighbors; from what I could read of their current war
efforts, many of their allies are countries much smaller and weaker than
themselves; those countries of comparable strength have backed off from their
alliance, though they remain outwardly friendly. If America will not ally with
us, I do not doubt that at least a few other countries will - their Ru
[19:58] <ElementalKnight> icular, seems a likely candidate."
[19:59] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((Cut on 'thier Ru...))
[19:59] <ElementalKnight> * their Russia, in particular, seems a likely
candidate."
[20:00] <ElementalKnight> (Sorry 'bout the long responses. It's hard not to
cram it all in!)
[20:00] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((Yay RP!))
[20:01] <ElementalKnight> (^_^ There're worse curses to be under.)
[20:01] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Russia. Yes.  We would like more information about
them.  Another time then."
[20:01] <GM|ibn-Mull> "What did they ask of you?  What did they wish to learn
of us, through your person?"
[20:02] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "They were most interested in magic;
understandibly so."
[20:02] <ElementalKnight> (brb, dog wants out.)
[20:05] <ElementalKnight> (Sorry about that - dog decided to bolt when I opened
the door.)
[20:06] <ElementalKnight> (Anyway.)
[20:06] <GM|ibn-Mull> "For a world without any sort of real magic, that is
quite understandable."
[20:06] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "As such, I gave a demonstration of my own
meager abilities, much to their amazement. They demanded a number of repeat
performances, which I obliged - to a point."
[20:08] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "They were also eager to hear of our own
resources - our farms, our fishing, our mines. Less so of our technology; they
seemed to have already concluded - rightly so - that we were behind their
mechanical prowess by 'as much as a century'."
[20:08] <GM|ibn-Mull> "We have reports that they are trying to get as much
information about magic as possible.  That the exile, Ferrum, is among them, is
also cause for concern."
[20:09] <GM|ibn-Mull> "I hope you portrayed is in an exmplary fashion there?"
[20:10] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "I performed to the best of my capabilities.
I gave as much respect as I could be expected to, as a Prince; when not on an
official tour, I kept myself from debauchery and other embarasment, even to the
detriment of my research."
[20:12] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Quite understandable.  We have been praparing a larger
contingent for embassy.  Did they express intrest in further visits from us?"
[20:14] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Indeed, though more as a matter of
understanding our world as a whole. Despite their eagerness to ally with
Refulgo, they have not fully comitted themselves to their cause yet, and will
not do so without some further study. At the very least, they were much
intrigued by my tales of the Sikkiyn; they will have a guaranteed audience on
any return visit."
[20:15] <GM|ibn-Mull> "That is good to hear, cousin."
[20:16] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "I am only pleased to have served Azrag Biet.
However, I admit a personal desire to return to America if circumstances ever
permit - I wish to see their sailing ships, among other minor interests."
[20:18] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Ah, yes.  Your hobby.  Ever a small indulgance, although
one well suited for our nation.  Tell me, I know that one of our ambassadors at
the Leaftown Portal has inquired about a 'show of good faith' gift from the
Americans.  Had you heard any news of this?"
[20:19] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((Drigible))
[20:19] <ElementalKnight> (Ah.)
[20:19] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((Setting up the first mission here.  Sorry to leave you
hanging.))
[20:19] <ElementalKnight> (Beyond the fact that it's what you're supposed to
do? No worries - I'm already hangin'.)
[20:21] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((Goody.))
[20:21] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Whispers, growing louder by the day. They
seem inclined to give us a sample of technology that, to them, is worthless,
but to us is somewhat advanced. A 'flying machine'."
[20:21] <ElementalKnight> ((Sorry. Dad distracted me there with talk of the
toothbrush he got me for christmas. <.<)
[20:22] <GM|ibn-Mull> ((heh.  I got a Rolling Alarm Clock))
[20:22] <ElementalKnight> ((Clocky!))
[20:22] <GM|ibn-Mull> "We have heard much of this.  But a flying machine?  How
is that worthless?"
[20:23] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "As best as I can decipher, they have
machines much improved over what they plan to give us. What they offer moves,
perhaps, as fast as a locomotive; what they already have, can move faster than
sound itself."
[20:24] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Even if we were to improve upon their 'gift'
immensely, it would still not be a threat; as such, they are safe to give it to
us. I did not refuse, though as always, the final acceptance is not mine."
[20:25] <GM|ibn-Mull> "So, they offer us somthing of no value to them, as a
show of good faith.  I begin to be more concerned with their motives every
moment."
[20:27] <ElementalKnight> <Raoul> "Remember, though, that we can act in much
the same manner - we can teach them the spell of Cure, for example, or the
manufacture of Potions. We may be behind, but we are not hopelessly outmatched."
[20:28] <GM|ibn-Mull> "True.  But we must ask ourselves.  Are we as behind
them, in the realm of science, as they are in the realm of magic?  Perhaps
while we may lag in this area, our advances in the other would make us greater
overall.  But ah!  Such talk is for later."
[20:29] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Have you anything else to say, before we adjourn for the
day?"
[20:30] <ElementalKnight> * Raoul nods, glad that his report has gone over
well. "Only that I hope to see a prosperous union of worlds in the future, even
when a less than fortunate outcome seems so possible."
[20:32] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Ah, such is the desires of all who seek peace.  But
alas, there are those who would seek power instead.  Most unfortunate, but it
is the duty of the good man to oppose such."
[20:34] <GM|ibn-Mull> "Very well, then.  We shall adjurn for the evening.  It
seems our King has decided to make you our agent-at-large in dealing with the
Earth people.  To that end, you will be returned to Leaftown soon.  Perhaps
your desire to return to America will occur sooner, rather than later."

[19:35] * Yuki` is at the docks, in her standard peasant-level clothes,
apparently trying to look everywhere at once judging by the shifting eyes.
She's at least decent at hiding it, though. It slows down when she sees a few
of the ships, though. "We might be able to get something here."
[19:36] * Anika is adjusting one of the straps on her overalls. "Hmm? Get
something?"
[19:37] <Yuki`> "...well, not 'get'.  More..."  Yuki lowers her
voice. "...sneak on."
[19:38] <GM|JonB> *There aren't a lot of ships.  Most of them don't look like
deep-water vessels.
[19:38] <Anika> "Oh!" Anika's eyes light up. "I get it!"
[19:39] * Yuki` nods, and pauses to cough. "I'd rather not bargain this time -
too many people I know have been dying, lately. Don't want to leave a trail by
talking too much."
[19:41] * Anika finally looks up at Yuki, frowning slightly. "That's //so//
morbid."
[19:42] * Yuki` coughs some more. "...true, though." A pause. "You see any deep-
water boats? It's going to be a long trip."
[19:43] * Anika puts a hand up to shield her eyes, scanning the waterline for
signs of a large vessel.
[19:44] <GM|JonB> *There are only two boats that look even remotely deep-water
capable.  One seems to be a large noble's ship, with fine sails, and guards.
The other is a foreign vessel, offloading cargo at the moment.
[19:45] * Anika points to the foreign vessel. "There. I don't see any guards,
do you?"
[19:45] <GM|JonB> *There aren't any obvious guards, but then again, neither are
many sailors trying to get on it either.
[19:46] * Yuki` looks at the boat. ((It look Refulgan, GM?)) "Not out in the
open, at least."
[19:46] <Anika> "They look distracted. Maybe we could get by without them
noticing."
[19:47] <GM|JonB> ((Etoile))
[19:48] <Anika> "That one," she points to the noble's ship, "looks more
dangerous."
[19:48] <Yuki`> "Not to mention it may just be there to look pretty.  At least
that ship will get us on the right continent."
[19:49] <Yuki`> "...how good are you at being sneaky, Anika?"
[19:49] * Anika shrugs. "I snuck out of the orphanage, and ditched class plenty
of times..."
[19:50] * Anika sounds as though she fancies herself quite the rebel for this
accomplishment.
[19:50] <GM|JonB> *As neither of you seem to have any money, nor are you
seeming to be looking to make some, you're pretty much ignored for now.
[19:51] <Yuki`> "Well, hopefully that'll be enough- I'm not very good at it
myself."  Yuki looks at the offloading for an opening to sneak onto the ship.
[19:51] * Django has joined #i-demon
[19:52] <GM|JonB> *It doesn't seem to be much of an opening really.  As you get
closer, you can hear some of the men working the boat grumbling.
[19:52] <GM|JonB> ((Either of you know French/Etoile?))
[19:52] <Anika> (( German. >.> ))
[19:52] <Yuki`> ((Yuki does, at 44.))
[19:53] * Yuki` tries listening to the grumbling.
[19:53] <GM|JonB> *Yuki, as she gets closer, can hear them complain about how
poorly this run has been lately.  They aren't making lots of money.
[19:54] * Anika leans closer to Yuki, whispering. "What are they saying?"
[19:54] * Yuki` whispers back to Anika. "They're complaining about not getting
much money on this trip. It's been a poor run."
[19:55] * Yuki` continues whispering. "Too bad I'm broke- bribery would be a
good option here."
[19:55] * Anika turns her empty pockets inside-out, shrugging.
[19:55] <Anika> (( I literally have 0 gil. <.< ))
[19:55] <GM|JonB> ((BRB  Keep talking.))
[19:56] * Anika ponders. "We could distract them."
[19:57] <Yuki`> "True... but with what, exactly?"
[19:57] * Anika grins. "An explosion?"
[19:57] * Yuki` looks a bit nonplussed. "An explosion, you say."
[19:57] <Anika> "I'm good at those."
[19:58] <GM|JonB> *There's not a lot of cargo to unload, and it seems like work
is wraping up on the off-loading.
[19:59] <Yuki`> "...can you do it in the next minute?  If not, we'll miss our
shot."
[19:59] <Anika> (( Between Bottomless Pockets and Explosives...I might be able
to pull this off. :P ))
[19:59] <GM|JonB> *As if on que, a trio of Guardsmen ride out past you, and
approach the ship.  They look pleased with themselves.
[20:00] * Yuki` looks at the guardsmen. "Or it could be a moot point. When they
atart talking, we move."
[20:00] <Yuki`> ((*start))
[20:01] * Anika looks slightly disappointed. "Or that."
[20:01] <GM|JonB> *They get to the gangplank, and without dismounting, start
shouting at the ship.  A man on the ship responds.  The shouting gets louder
when both sides realize there's no one there who speaks the others language.
[20:02] <Yuki`> ((I'm guessing the gangplank is the only way on?))
[20:03] <GM|JonB> *Unless you want to swim to the other side, or climb up the
anchor chain...))
[20:03] * Anika ducks down behind some of the newly-unloaded cargo, and begins
making her way toward the ship as quietly as she can manage.
[20:03] <GM|JonB> ((Does Anika know Hino?))
[20:04] * Yuki` follows behind Anika and whispers. "Looks like they have the
only way on is on the gangplank."
[20:05] * Yuki` curses under her breath. "Maybe I can translate to pay our way
on."
[20:05] <Anika> (( She has the Lore. Not the Lang. ))
[20:05] <Anika> "Maybe they won't see us."
[20:05] <GM|JonB> *As Yuki gets closer, she can tell that the Guardsmen are
trying to give some sort of order to the ship, and the Etolian is demanding
they speak a real language.
[20:06] * Yuki` shrugs. "I can act as the distraction."
[20:06] <GM|JonB> *To be sepcific, the Guardsmen are trying to order the ship
to take them on.
[20:06] <Anika> "What happened to talking too much?"
[20:07] <Yuki`> "It vanished when the guardsmen blocked the way on the ship."
[20:07] * Anika shrugs. "Fair enough. You do the talking, then."
[20:09] * Yuki` walks towards the ship in plain sight, and says to the sailors
in Etoile "If you're willing to have me and another on board, I can translate
for you so everyone can work this out."
[20:09] <GM|JonB> *Both sides stop arguing for a moment, and look at Yuki.
[20:10] * Anika pops her head up just enough to see over the top of a crate,
watching the scene before her unfold with interest.
[20:10] <GM|JonB> *The man on the boat leans over the rail, and calls out "You
actually talk a real language?  Good.  What to do these fools want?"
[20:10] * Yuki` then says the same thing in Hino. She continues saying the
following in one language, then the other. "I'm a freelance negotiator. You can
call me Miss Snow."
[20:11] * Yuki` says to the sailor "The guards want you to take them on board
the ship."
[20:11] <GM|JonB> *The Guardsmen blink, but none of them look on you as more
than a minorly useful peasent.
[20:11] * Yuki` then turns to the guards. "Why did you need to see the ship,
sir guardsmen?"
[20:12] <GM|JonB> *The sailor laughs.  "Ha!  And why would they want that?"
[20:13] <GM|JonB> *He continues.  "It's not like they can pay, can they?"
[20:13] * Anika looks back and forth, as though a watching a tennis match, not
understanding a word of what is being said.
[20:14] * Yuki` listens, then talks to the guards. "Sir guardsmen, if I may,
why do you need to board the ship? They would normally prefer money for someone
who needs to travel with them."
[20:15] * Yuki` bows as a sign of respect to the guards.
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[20:15] <GM|JonB> *The apparent leader of the guards looks down at Yuki.  "You
can tell this foreigner that we will board now, or we will impound his ship!"
[20:16] <GM|JonB> *He brings his sword around to easy reach by means of
emphasis.
[20:16] * Yuki` turns to the sailors. "They are threatening to impound the ship
if they are not allowed to board."
[20:16] * Anika hoists herself up to sit cross-legged on top of the crate,
watching with her chin resting in her hands.
[20:17] <GM|JonB> *The sailor looks down, his face turning dark.  "Tell them to
stay put.  I'm gonna get the Captain."
[20:17] * ChanServ sets mode: +o ElementalKnight
[20:18] <GM|JonB> *He vanishes away from the rail.  You can see that many of
the sailors have stopped what they're doing, and seem to be waiting, tensely.
[20:19] <Yuki`> To the guards:  "The sailor is going to find the captain and
bring him to the deck."  A pause.  "If I may be so bold, sir guardsman, is this
visit part of a matter of official business outside of the nation?"
[20:19] <GM|JonB> *The guard spits at Yuki.  "No business of yours, hag."
[20:20] * Anika makes a face at the offending guard.
[20:21] * Yuki` frowns slightly and easily avoids the spit. She says to herself
in English "Well, doesn't look like much chance of negotiation here..." She
then switches back to Hino. "It is not for me, Sir guardsman, but to inform the
sailors and their captain of your intentions."
[20:21] <GM|JonB> *Soon enough, the sailor returns, this time flanked by a
large, and obviously physically powerful man.  This new man steps up to the top
of the gangplank, and speaks in Etoile.  "And who are you to demand passage on
my ship?
[20:23] * Yuki` listens to the captain, then speaks to the guard. "He asks for
what reason you demand passage on his ship, and under what authority."
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[20:24] <GM|JonB> The guard looks angry at Yuki, and shoves her out of the way
with the flank of his chocobo as he tries to guide the animal up the
gangplank.  "That foreigner has no right to question me!  He will take me!"
[20:25] <GM|JonB> *Right behind him, his two fellows make thier own weapons
available but not out, and get in line behind their leader.
[20:25] * Yuki` now looks actually pissed, and puts her hand on a dagger hidden
in her clothes.
[20:26] * ElementalKnight has quit IRC (Ping timeout)
[20:26] * Anika may not be able to understand them, but knows that this can't
be good. She jumps down from her crate, running over to Yuki.
[20:27] <Yuki`> "I think that such bloodshed would reflect badly on the
temprament of the Hino guards, especially in the presence of a noble's ship.
It is unnecessary to force a violent confrontation."
[20:27] * Yuki` looks back at the other, noble ship at the dock.
[20:28] <Anika> "Maybe they'll be too preoccupied to notice us."
[20:28] <GM|JonB> *The captain scowls and raises his hand...
[20:30] <GM|JonB> *Half a dozen sailors pop over the railing each leveling a
crossbow.  Armed and pointed at the guards.
[20:30] * Yuki` looks to Anika and whispers in English "This could get very
ugly very fast." A pause while the people with crossbows appear. "Like right
now."
[20:31] * Anika now looks slightly alarmed. "What do we do?"
[20:32] <GM|JonB> *The guards don't take kindly to being threated, or think
that they're facing amatuers.  The lead guard draws his sword and yells....
[20:32] * Yuki` then talks to the guard. "As I said. This is becoming
dangrously close to the no-win situation. If you wish, I again offer to
mediate, rather than have violence."
[20:32] * Yuki` says the same to the captain.
[20:32] <GM|JonB> *No one is listening to you at the moment...
[20:33] <GM|JonB> * The captain then roars in Hino.  "GET AWAY FROM MY SHIP!"
[20:33] * Yuki` sighs. "Right now, Anika, we stand back and hope to make a deal
with the winners."
[20:33] <GM|JonB> ((Sorry.  Action sequence comming up.  Hold your applause.))
[20:36] <GM|JonB> * The guard snarls in rage, and move to drive his mount
forward.  At this, the captain lowers his hand, and the crossbow bolts leave
thier weapons, and impale themselves in the leader and the man right behind
him.  The third, being in the back, is lucky, as the bolt skitters off his
armor, rather than punching through.  Taking the moment offered as the sailors
begin to reload, he twists his 'bo around, and dashes past Anika, anger on his
face.
[20:36] <Yuki`> ((Cut at 'anger on his'))
[20:37] <GM|JonB> +face.
[20:37] <Yuki`> ((Hm. Any time to respond to that?))
[20:37] <GM|JonB> ((Not really.  It was a professional ambush.))
[20:37] <GM|JonB> *On the boat, the captain scowls even further, and leans over
the railing.  In Etoile, he looks at Yuki.
[20:38] <GM|JonB> * "Madame.  I apologize for that bloodshed."
[20:39] <GM|JonB> * This is the third port where some petty noble, or man of
power has tried to force thier way on my ship."
[20:39] * Yuki` draws her dagger and tries slicing off the strap holding the
harness for the chocobo, so the other guard falls off. ((Is that doable?))
[20:39] <GM|JonB> ((Done.))
[20:39] <GM|JonB> * "So, it would seem that this has been my final port of call
in this land.  And I don't think that remaining guard will take to kindly to
you either."
[20:40] * Yuki` does that, then responds in kind to the captain. "Indeed.
Unfortunately, with petty tyrants, the only true negotiation is with action."
[20:41] <Yuki`> "If I may, I would ask for passage for myself and my companion
with you.  We have little money, but I can offer my service as translater or
negotiator as needed."
[20:41] * Anika just tries to look amiable.
[20:42] <GM|JonB> * "Quite correct.  However, I am not a compassionless man."
He gestures out at some of the local sailors who were attracted by the
scuffle.  "You speak a real language.  You know numbers?"
[20:43] <Yuki`> "The basics.  My companion is much better with advanced
numbers, and mechanics if needed."
[20:44] * Anika gathers by Yuki's body language that she's talking about her.
She smiles and waves.
[20:45] <GM|JonB> *The captain scowls.  "Alright then.  I don't see any reason
to leave a matron such as yourself in this hole.  If you and your friend want
on, you'll have to work.  Cooking, cleaning, and helping our quartermaster,
who's needing some help with his math."
[20:45] * Yuki` nods, and talks to Anika in English. "We can get on, if we help
cook, clean, and help the quartermaster with math."
[20:46] <GM|JonB> * "And tell these men here," He indicates the group of local
sailors standing nearby, that I'll extend the offer to them as well, assuming
they can pull thier weight.  They don't, and I toss them overboard."
[20:46] * Yuki` pauses, then continues to talk to Anika. "No way I can handle
the last one, unfortunately."
[20:47] * Yuki` nods to the captain, and turns to the other waiting sailors,
translating ford for word.
[20:47] <Yuki`> ((*word for word))
[20:47] <Anika> "I can do math. Not much good at the other two...But if their
weapons need maintenance, I'm their girl."
[20:48] * Yuki` smiles a bit, and turns back to the captain. "My companion just
offered to help with maintaining your weapons, as well."
[20:48] <GM|JonB> *There's a murmer among the sailors, then a few break ranks,
headed for the ship.  Of the dozen or so there, about 2/3 eventually line up at
the gangplank.
[20:49] <GM|JonB> * "An armorer as well?  I can see why you'd want to leave.
Mate Ricardo!  Use this lady to talk to the new recruits, get thier names and
skills.  And what, Goddess tell, are your names again?"
[20:50] * Yuki` looks to Anika. "What do you want them to call you?"
[20:52] * Anika looks puzzled. "Should I not give them my real name?"
[20:52] * Yuki` shrugs. "It's your choice." She whispers "To be honest, I
haven't used my real name in years."
[20:53] <GM|JonB> * "Time's wasting, woman.  That guard may be back sooner,
rather than later."
[20:54] * Anika shrugs. "No one knows me here. Anika is fine."
[20:54] * Yuki` turns to the guard. "Yes, of course. My apologies. My name is
Yuki, but you may call me Jeanne for the sake of the crew. Hino names can be
annoying. And my companion is Anika."
[20:55] <GM|JonB> * "Fine then.  Ricardo will add your names to the roll.
Jeanne, you help Ricardo with your counrtymen.  Anika, you wait on deck."
[20:55] <GM|JonB> *To the rest of the crew; "Ready to loose the ropes.  Hoist
anchor, we leave when these men are aboard!"
[20:56] * Yuki` translates for Anika, then lets her go first before following
to help with the other new crew.
[20:56] * Anika salutes. "Aye!"
[20:56] * Yuki` nods. "Understood, Captain."
[20:56] * Yuki` bows to him a bit. >_> Then gets to work.
[20:57] * Anika boards the ship, heading for the deck as ordered. There, she
looks out to sea.
[20:58] <GM|JonB> * Very quickly, the new crew is aboard, and working the
sails.  Somethings transcend language.  As the ship pulls away, you can see a
dozen heavilly armed guards race towards the ship, yelling for it to stop.
[20:58] * Yuki` turns away from the docks, pretending like she can't understand
the guards.
[21:00] <GM|JonB> *Once the ship is away from the harbor, and no pursuit has
been given, the Captain comes to the two of you.  "I apologize.  Normally, we
don't take women on board, being a cargo ship.  But I figure this being our
last run now, and working crew can be hard to find.  I'm headed back to Etoile,
and I'm going to tell the company no more trade here.  Not worth it.
[21:01] * Yuki` can be presumed to translate for aniks from her on in, for ease
of conversation.
[21:01] <Yuki`> *Anika
[21:01] * Anika nods along as Yuki translates.
[21:02] <Yuki`> "I understand, Captain.  The depression has made people
desperate."
[21:03] * Yuki` sighs, and coughs a little. She quickly adds "Don't worry, it's
a personal health problem, not illness."
[21:04] <GM|JonB> * "Quite.  So, were you looking for a way out yourself?  I
can't promise Etoile will treat you any bet...  I'll be generous, and say
that's you getting your sea legs, and due to your age.  But If you really are
sick..."
[21:05] <Yuki`> "Then we can always leave once we reach Etoile.  I need to get
to Refulgo, in any case."
[21:05] <GM|JonB> * The captain makes a non-commital gesture.  "Fine.  It'll be
a couple weeks before we get back to port.  And good riddance."
[21:06] * Yuki` nods. "In any case, I won't let any illness stop me from
earning my keep, so no need to worry."
[21:07] * Anika fidgets, eager to start her work.
[21:07] <GM|JonB> ((I think that's it.  Wanna keep going?))
[21:08] <Yuki`> ((Well, if Melo is up to it, we could have a bit of RP tacked
onto the end.))
[21:08] <Anika> (( Sure. If you want. ))
[21:08] <Yuki`> ((I'm good until about midnight.))
[21:09] <GM|JonB> ((Well, I can leave you two to simple chatting then.))
[21:09] * Yuki` does get an eventual break from work, and takes that moment to
get as much rest as she can. She'll wait for Anika to get off her shift of
work, too - nobody else for her to talk to.
[21:11] * Anika finishes with her mathematical duties, welcoming the break for
her mind.
[21:11] <Anika> "You look tired."
[21:12] <Yuki`> "Yeah... it's getting more and more common lately."
[21:13] * Anika sits down, swinging her legs back and forth. "What's wrong?"
[21:13] * Yuki` sighs. "My illness. It's been getting worse these past few
months, I can feel it."
[21:16] * Anika furrows her brow, concerned. "You should rest."
[21:16] * Yuki` nods. "I'll try a little. But I don't have time with luxury."
[21:18] * Yuki` pauses for a minute. "I... probably shouldn't tell you this.
You might end up in danger yourself. But if you've gone this far with me, you
deserve to know some more, at least."
[21:18] * Anika nods. "I'm listening."
[21:19] <Yuki`> "Well, first my real name isn't Yuki.  You've probably figured
that out from what I said on the docks, but I should still say it."
[21:20] <Anika> "Why aren't you using your real name?"
[21:21] * Yuki` looks down. "My real name isn't really important anymore. I was
forced out of that life long ago, and there's no returning to it now. At first,
I didn't use it because I wanted to keep it secret. Now... there's no point to
that name anymore, really."
[21:22] <Yuki`> "So I'm just using Yuki from now on.  It seems to fit as well
as any other name."
[21:22] <Anika> "Are you hiding from someone?"
[21:24] * Yuki` nods. "Yes, but not because of my old life. Something that
happened almost a year ago... and the same reason why people I know have been
dying."
[21:26] * Anika looks at Yuki curiously, but manages to refrain from asking too
many questions.
[21:28] * Yuki` does notice, but she continues. "I was looking into something
for a client, and I found something I shouldn't have. When they found out that
I knew, it all started up. I've been trying to keep a low profile since. It's
just a shame you ran into me when I'm in this state. From what I could tell,
you were starting to make a decent life in Hinodeumei. Well, as decent as you
can get there without being a noble."
[21:31] * Anika shrugs, her eyes lighting up momentarily. "I really want to see
the rest of the world!"
[21:33] * Yuki` nods. "Well, this isn't the best start, but at least you'll be
able to see a lot more in Refulgo. From what I've heard, it's still in a pretty
unstable spot after the collapse."
[21:33] <Yuki`> "You'll be able to meet of all sorts of people there."
[21:34] <Anika> "You'll have to teach me all about this world."
[21:36] <Yuki`> "Not sure how much I can help, there.  I've been to Refulgo
before, but not for horribly long.  It's like you- I know more about Hinodeumei
than anything."
[21:37] * Anika nods.
[21:39] <Yuki`> "But if I can meet this one person around Leaftown and get
things moving, I'll definitely help you where I can."
[21:40] <Anika> "Who's that?"
[21:42] * Yuki` looks down. "Not really sure. I'm chasing rumors right now, but
it's better than staying in one place. If it doesn't pan out, I keep looking
there."
[21:43] * Anika tilts her head to the side. "What have you heard?"
[21:45] * Yuki` shrugs. "I heard about a powerful man who was taking a big
interest in some of the goings on in Hinodeumei. Someone who isn't connected to
the rulers there. And hopefully, if he is there, I can find a way to talk to
him about what I saw, and get something done about it."
[21:46] <Anika> "That would be good."
[21:47] * Yuki` nods.
[21:47] <Anika> (( Well, I'm getting tired/hungry. ))
[21:48] <Yuki`> ((Okay. I'll put in a finishing line, and we can stop there.))
[21:49] <Yuki`> "...thanks for the talk."  Yuki smiles just a tiny bit.  "But I
should take your advice and rest for a while."  She stands up.  "I'll see you
tomorrow, Anika."
[21:50] * Anika smiles broadly in return. "Goodnight!"

I intend to post all logs here to the thread, to keep those who can't attend
the sessions in the loop.  Starting out;

[17:55] <JonBGM> * Sitting in a small, sparse room in the middle of the White
Sands military facility, two men sit.  One is the director of the project,
Johann, the other, a relative newcomer.
[17:56] <JonBGM> <Johann> "May I call you Nikolai, or would you prefer your
family name?"
[17:56] * JonBGM is now known as GM|Johann
[17:56] * Nikolai pushes his glasses higher up the bridge of his nose. "Nikolai
will do just fine, Mr... Johann?"
[17:57] * GM|Johann smiles. "That will do. I've had a chance to look over your
file, and I can say that I'm quite pleased with what you have."
[17:57] <GM|Johann> "You, are, of course, knowing what I am talking about?"
[17:58] * Nikolai blinks, and he is standing in the corner of the room, arms
folded with a relaxed posture.
[17:58] <Nikolai> "Probably that."
[17:59] <GM|Johann> "Excellent.  Quite a few people who come to this room are
in denail about their ability, or simply don't know about it yet."
[17:59] * GM|Johann shuffles some papers. "Have a seat, please."
[18:00] * Nikolai takes his seat again, forgoing instant movement for the few
steps.
[18:00] <GM|Johann> "I can see that you've signed the non-disclosure agreement,
good.  And you've had a chance to review the material you were given?"
[18:01] <Nikolai> "I've looked it over a few times. Quite interesting."
[18:02] <GM|Johann> "Good, good.  Now, would you be interested in learning
more.  That is to say, working for the I-D project, and assisting us?"
[18:03] <Nikolai> "Hmm. I suppose I'd have to ask what I have to gain from the
venture."
[18:04] * Chris| is now known as N_X[Games]
[18:04] <GM|Johann> "Better understanding and experience with your abilities,
meeting people with similar capcities and views, travel to new and interesting
places, and other benifits as well.|
[18:05] <Nikolai> "I see. And the risks?"
[18:06] <GM|Johann> "Life, limb.  Nothing completly out of the ordinary for a
military operation."
[18:06] * LordSaanjun has quit IRC (Quit: Into the Aether...)
[18:07] <GM|Johann> "That is not to say that we are unable to help you out,
should the need arise, but that with this project, due to its very nature, we
can't guarentee anything."
[18:08] <Azimov> "I see. Well, I must tell you that I'm quite interested in
this project."
[18:08] * GM|Johann smiles warmly. "Great!"
[18:08] <Nikolai> ((sorry))
[18:08] <Nikolai> ((running GP as well.))
[18:09] <GM|Johann> ((n/p))
[18:10] <Nikolai> "I am, however, going to need some things from you, Mr.
Johann."
[18:10] <GM|Johann> "Oh?  Like what?"
[18:11] * Nikolai smiles, and starts extending his fingers as he lists.
[18:11] <Nikolai> "Full access to any and all files and information pertaining
to Thera."
[18:12] * GM|Johann nods, and lets him keep going.
[18:12] <Nikolai> "Complete dossiers for any and all people I'll be working
with."
[18:13] <Nikolai> "Some amount of arms training."
[18:14] <GM|Johann> "Anything else?"
[18:16] * Nikolai puts a finger to his chin speculatively.
[18:17] <Nikolai> "Provided that I am a sufficient guinea pig, I'd like to be
financially taken care of after all of this has been resolved.
[18:17] * GM|Johann nods, and look sover his papers. "Is that all?"
[18:18] <Nikolai> "Specifically, I'd like to count on the government to send me
an amount of money on a regular basis. Such that I can live comfortably- though
certainly not extravagantly- and continue my work."
[18:20] <GM|Johann> "I see."
[18:20] * Nikolai steeples his fingers, smiling pleasantly. "Well, thats all
that I can think of at the moment."
[18:20] <Nikolai> "Otherwise, my only concern is developing something to tell
my parents."
[18:22] <GM|Johann> "Very well then, your answers are as such; Certainly,
Theran history, geography and society are all part of the training course.
Second, we shall see.  We do not know whom all our operatives are working with
until they actually get there."
[18:23] <GM|Johann> "Thirdly, it's a requirement.  Fourth, retirement packages
are standard.  Fifth.  That's something we can work on."
[18:24] <Nikolai> "Hmm. Do you have any idea who I'm working with on this
admittedly life-risking mission?"
[18:25] <GM|Johann> "At this point?  No.  Assuming you pass our training
regimine, then such things will be decided.  We no longer simply drop people
into Thera with no support or backup."
[18:26] <Nikolai> "Ahh. Thats good news then."
[18:27] <GM|Johann> "Good to hear.  Do I have your tenative agreement then?"
[18:27] <Nikolai> "Yes. I think you do."

Well, I promised today, and here they are.

First, I would like to thank everyone who submitted characters, and
while I would have loved to have had you all in, that would have been
too many to properly handle with only 1 GM.

So, without further ado, here are the final selections for active
players;

Yuki - Human Mediator - NewbieX
Raoul al-Zeid - Human Samurai - Elemental Knight
Anika - Human Engineer - Melo
Kuleno - Yeti Summoner - Cala
Nikolai Cadmus - Human Time Mage - Django


Once again, thanks to all of you who put forth thier character
ideas.  We may need replacements in the future, so don't toss away
those PCs yet.

Those whom I have chosen, please make sure your character sheet is
uploaded to the Yahoo-groups, and contact me through #i-demon to
arrange a suitable time for everyone, as well as for personal session
#0s.

Thank you all.

--
Jon Berry
GM, I-D3

Quoting Alex <Angelalex242@...>:

> I dunno what's up with the wiki. It's for some reason deader then a
> doornail every time I try to look stuff up. But you might have to give
> an extension of the wiki's broken.

I have made it a habit of manually backing up the wiki every so often, and so
if anyone needs a certain file, I can provide.

--- In demoncampaign@yahoogroups.com, "Jon Berry" <berryjon@...> wrote:
>
> I am now announcing a 7 day deadline on further submissions.
>
> I will only accept characters until midnight, Saturday December 8th.
>
> I will then have my final selections within a week after that.
>
> Latest submissions also include a Yeti Summoner and a Hume Samurai.
>
> That is all.
>
I dunno what's up with the wiki. It's for some reason deader then a
doornail every time I try to look stuff up. But you might have to give
an extension of the wiki's broken.

I am now announcing a 7 day deadline on further submissions.

I will only accept characters until midnight, Saturday December 8th.

I will then have my final selections within a week after that.

Latest submissions also include a Yeti Summoner and a Hume Samurai.

That is all.

Hello,

This email message is a notification to let you know that
a file has been uploaded to the Files area of the demoncampaign
group.

   File        : /Possible Characters/Kuleno.txt
   Uploaded by : phoerret <phoerret@...>
   Description : Kuleno, Yeti Summoner by Cala

You can access this file at the URL:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/demoncampaign/files/Possible%20Characters/Kuleno.t\
xt

To learn more about file sharing for your group, please visit:
http://help.yahoo.com/help/us/groups/files

Regards,

phoerret <phoerret@...>

I finally I have three submissions so far.  I'll keep the exact details
secret for now, but here's who I have;

Yuki, a Theran Human Mediator, Newbie-X
Anika, a Earthen Human Engineer, Melo
John Auber, a Earthen Human Thief, Ablogqwer

Still looking for more submissions, as I have at least another 5 people
interested, but no submission from them yet.

Quoting Alex <Angelalex242@...>:

> Submit him where? Did you make a new characters file on the boards?

Straight to me.

--- In demoncampaign@yahoogroups.com, berryjon@... wrote:
>
> Quoting Alex <Angelalex242@...>:
>
> > Oh, drat. Level 10 means we can't import our old characters. We'd have
> > to start level 25 or so for that.
>
> While starting at a higher level was considered, I chose 10 for
reason.  It low
> enough to represent new people to Thera, and high enough to avoid
the early
> doldrums.  It gives people options in combat, and skills to do the
things that
> may be required without making it too easy.
>
> You are still welcome to create a new character, and submit him, Alex.
>
Submit him where? Did you make a new characters file on the boards?

Quoting Alex <Angelalex242@...>:

> Oh, drat. Level 10 means we can't import our old characters. We'd have
> to start level 25 or so for that.

While starting at a higher level was considered, I chose 10 for reason.  It low
enough to represent new people to Thera, and high enough to avoid the early
doldrums.  It gives people options in combat, and skills to do the things that
may be required without making it too easy.

You are still welcome to create a new character, and submit him, Alex.

--- In demoncampaign@yahoogroups.com, berryjon@... wrote:
>
> Quoting Alex <Angelalex242@...>:
>
> > What level will we be starting at? And tell me the answer isn't '1.'
>
> Level 10, standard Gil and availablity.
>
Oh, drat. Level 10 means we can't import our old characters. We'd have
to start level 25 or so for that.

Quoting Alex <Angelalex242@...>:

> What level will we be starting at? And tell me the answer isn't '1.'

Level 10, standard Gil and availablity.

--- In demoncampaign@yahoogroups.com, "Jon Berry" <berryjon@...> wrote:
>
> With ID2 now officialy finished, I just wanted to let all the people on
> this list that I will retain the YahooGroups as the primary resource
> for players and non-players alike.
>
> To that end, I'm still looking for more players, so if any member of
> the penny-gallery wants to join, e-mail me or contact me on the boards,
> or on the irc channel (#i-demon on esper.net).
>
> I plan to post the IRC sessions here for all to see, as well as keep
> the character sheets here as well.
>
> Speaking of characters, Newbie-X is back with Yuki, EK has a character
> in the works, and I have a couple other bites.
>
> So please, submit!  Make things interesting for me!
>
What level will we be starting at? And tell me the answer isn't '1.'

With ID2 now officialy finished, I just wanted to let all the people on
this list that I will retain the YahooGroups as the primary resource
for players and non-players alike.

To that end, I'm still looking for more players, so if any member of
the penny-gallery wants to join, e-mail me or contact me on the boards,
or on the irc channel (#i-demon on esper.net).

I plan to post the IRC sessions here for all to see, as well as keep
the character sheets here as well.

Speaking of characters, Newbie-X is back with Yuki, EK has a character
in the works, and I have a couple other bites.

So please, submit!  Make things interesting for me!

About two weeks ago, Senator Leona Barrington was part of the team
that attempted to destroy the madness that was gripping some of the
Crystals.  Unfortunately, when the Man in Brown had to create a
dimensional bubble to contain the Madness, he had to take an I-DEMON
device to finish the job, and sucked Leona in with it.

The incident quickly reached the word of the Project DEMON team and
its Oversight Committee, and they immediately made plans to attempt a
search and rescue mission for Leona.  The nature of the dimensional
warping made finding an exact location impossible, but a party already
on Thera was reassigned to start a search.  After several months of
looking across Thera, however, no trace of Leona was found, and the
search eventually had to be called off.

Publicly, Senator Barrington had been in a private hospital due to
dioxin poisoning.  Once the search on Thera was called off, the press
was informed that Ms. Barrington had finally succumbed to her illness.
  Due to her final wishes and the condition of her body, she was given
a closed-casket funeral, with the casket cremated and the remains
buried at her ancestral home in Alaska.  Later that year, her open
seat was filled in a special election, and with no heirs, her family
fortune was placed into a special trust.  That trust still acts as one
of the secret funding sources for UN I-DEMON projects.

As of 2007, Leona Barrington remains missing, presumed dead.

After the fight with Madness, Aede spends a couple weeks on Earth, filing three
years of back reports, and being a guinnea pig for all sorts of medical tests.
She doesn't try to get back in touch with her family after that disasterous
call from the hotel, and as time goes by, longs more to return to Thera.

Eventually, she convinces the higher up to allow her to return, with Ferrum's
help (who still thinks she's Theran).  Ferrum does charge her with delivering a
letter to his family, and upon her return the Thera as a 'long-term observer',
she discharges her promise.

She spends most of her time getting to know the new world ordr around her, not
really helping the new government, or those who oppose them.  Rather, she walks
around the rural areas, helping them with their problems in ways that don't
require magic.

With the reactivation of the I-DEMON project in 2005, she was contacted, and
tapped to return to the project.  She stayed on Thera, and was insinuated into
the Theran side of the project as a minor double agent.

Not that she likes her new position, but it's the only way she can see to keep
the forces of Earth from overrunning the less prepared Therans.

Today she lives in Leaftown as an Orienteer, a person assigned to groups of
Earthers to help them adjust to Thera, and she finds herself in the trust of
both sides, a spot she really doesn't want to be in.

Luthien's deeds become known throughout the Order of Paladins.

With the fall of the antimage laws, the Order of Paladins once again
comes into prominence as the go to guys whenever evil threatens. The
Order doesn't work for any one nation or any one army, but rather move
as an organized unit to fight evil wherever they find it. The Order,
once welcomed in every nation in the world, becomes welcomed again.

Unlike others, the Paladinic Order does not make Rune Knights feel
unwelcome. For one, Rune Knight powers don't work on Paladins anyway,
and for two, every man and woman is judged by his or her actions, not
one's profession. Some Rune Knights seek shelter with the Order,
though seeking shelter with the Order sort of firmly encourages them
to adopt the rigid code of the Holy Knights.

Luthien becomes a Captain in the Order, with his own squadron to
command. It is perhaps not an accident Rufia is part of that squadron.

Also, there's Mierle. The thief comes to be a large part of his life
as time goes on. Being an example to the Order, of course, means
honorable courting practices must be adhered to.

Due to Mierle's prodding and Luthien's new rank, the Order moves as a
unit to secure the last 3 crystals. Realizing the Holy Crystal must
surely be in a Dark Knight stronghold, they save looking for that one
last, instead seeking out the Crystals of Earth and Lightning first.

(Whether or not they're found is up to Jon. Though it's feasible the
order might've found one or two of the remaining crystals, I doubt
they'd have been able to assault the Dark Knight stronghold to get the
last one. That's for PCs to do.)

The Order has also researched what to do with the Crystals once all of
them are recovered. There is apparently an ancient tower somewhere
that all the crystals can be taken to to keep them safe.

Now all that remains is to gather the last Crystals, and then, using
Luthien's connections with both Earth and Terran forces, bring in the
rest to place them all in safekeeping.

Over the years, all the ancient Paladin temples are reopened and
reclaimed by the Order, and they operate openly.

The Order also guards the tower that is to be the resting place of the
Crystals.

Luthien, though, is really quite happy with what he's done what he
continues to do for the world.

(The Order will have collected the Crystals and asked Rollan to keep
watch over them, if he wants to. I figure most nations of the world
would trust the Order to watch over them until they can be put safely
in the Tower. This is, again, up to Jon)

(Dias's epilogue. Sorry for the delay. Tell me if anything's
impractical/out of bounds.)

Having left the matter of the crystals in the hands of the Theran
members of the group, Dias spends the next four years constantly at
work, much to his dismay. He manages to formalize and maintain some
degree of influence over the US's future excursions into Thera, using
his experience there as leverage. Between keeping an eye on the
situation and working his way towards a stronger position, he writes
out his experiences, finally fulfilling a long-neglected part of the
mission. The world-wide pause in I-DEMON activity is a success, as is
the landing of the blame for Refulgo on America's shoulders, though
the real trick of the latter was conveying that impression while
avoiding any consequences from the chain of command afterwards.

(Dias is less than impressed when they censure America for their part
in the revolution and then fail to draw his carefully pre-packaged
conclusion regarding Earth interference. Agility Break is discovered
that evening, at roughly the same moment that Dias realizes he needs a
new sword; the tiny glowing metal shards give him a night-light until
he manages to pry the last of them out of his bedroom wall. He
recreates the effect with lighting, however, as he feels it adds a
nice touch to the decor.)

The turn of the tide, however, is the 2006 creation of the permanent
Earth-Thera link, and the beginnings of talks between the nations of
the different worlds. Dias knows now that his ultimate goal, drawing
down interdimensional contact, is far away and not coming any closer,
but is determined to fight for it every step of the way.

(This is the same as the Timeline document in the Files section - but
I'm posting it to the group for two reasons:

* So it can remain as it is, even if events in the future of the game
world change how this game should be interpreted.
* So that people who aren't actually members of the group can see it.
It's an important enough file that it shouldn't be restricted to
members-only (dang it, Yahoo, you and your bandwidth-conserving measures.)

So, this is the official Timeline of the I-DEMON Mk. 2 campaign. It's
just a quick summary of events; it doesn't contain all the details,
and some stuff may have been left out for various reasons, including
my own forgetfulness. But it's a good reference.

SPOLIER WARNING: If you're reading through the archives for fun, then
this document will totally spoil pretty much everything big and epic
about the game. The fun little moments, and the dialogue and stuff,
though, should remain unspoiled.

Enjoy!)

...

I-DEMON TIMELINE
Because no one can remember what all's happened.
No one... except a plain-text file.

Day 0: Dias Black, Yakato Misura, and Gary Lambert are briefed on the
I-DEMON, their mission, and the world that awaits. They are sent
through the I-DEMON's portal for the first time.

Day 1: Dias, Yakato and Gary land on top of the train. They meet Edgar
Vercingetorix, are introduced to he Resistors and the Rune Knights,
and, in particular, Alex Renshield and Miles Ferrum. Ferrum stabs a
student who goes out of line, Alex retaliates, and joins D, Y and G.
They, in turn, fight alongside Edgar, eventually besting the students
and hopping off the train a small distance outside of Leaftown. They
find the Inn, and the first true day of the adventure ends.

Day 2: The group reconvienes in the Inn's main dining hall, but the
day's beginning is short. A pack of Bargheists attack the outskirts of
town,temporarily held off by Luthien, a paladin in Edgar's cell of
Resistors. While taking down the hounds, the Leaftown Guard, under
Drake Tailwhip, take severe losses, and Dias goes unconcious for a
time. Also, a young boy by the
name of Rembrandt Debeque is found amidst the battlefield, and is
taken in by Edgar - yat again, it seems. Luthien and Edgar bring Alex
to the Resistors that night, and a plan to take on a large research
facility in Anshan is formed.

Day 3: In the early morning, D, Y, G, Remy, Alex, and Edgar board a
train from Leaftown to Anshan. Dias and Remy meet a mysterious, gruff
Okami, and Luthien meets Merle Fainleglan. Otherwise, the trip is
uneventful.

Day 4-5: Train ride.

Day 6: In the late afternoon, the train stops in Anshan, and the party
hops out. Edgar finds a three-story Inn for them to stay in, Remy
meets a mysterious man in an alley, Yakato explores the town's main
square, and Alex, Dias and Gary explore a settlement of foreigners in
the southwestern part of town. There, they meet a salesman, who
directs them to an ancient man who, according to children, will burst
into flames at the very touch of sunlight. The man does not burst into
flames, but does give Alex the means to translate their own language
in the form of a book. He asks that the party deliver him news of
other places and
their languages as payment, and the matter is settled. Alex first
hears of plans for Refulgo to attack a chain of islands slightly
southwest of Anshan (and south of Refulgo in general), to gain control
over a group in a similar fashion as they did the Rune Knights from
Fangaar.

Day 7: The Infiltration begins. Edgar and Remy go off to form a riot
in the mini-town of foreigners, while Luthien is 'brought to justice'
by D, G, Y, and A. The four meet with one Lawrence, who is the master
of the compound and a veteran of the Fangaaran wars. Soon after,
Meirle, Laoch and Tairis, the swordsman from the train, attack in an
attempt to steal a green crystal on Lawrence's necklace. Gary calms
them down after a minute or two fo combat, and eventually gets the
green crystal himself. Meirle explains about the Crystals, using her
own orange-red one as an example, and the three are taken in. D, Y, G
and A nap in Lawrence's home as Luthien, Meirle, Tairis and Laoch
escape from within the facility. After some exploring, Luthien and
Meirle find a young boy, the Summoner (and one of two targets), who
changes into Valefor and chases them up the stairs and outside, where
a riot - courtesy of Edgar and Remy - stis up the trouble to which A,
Y, G and D wake to. They, Luthien, Edgar and Remy fight Valefor for
several minutes after guards fail to subdue it, and suceed with much
bloodshed on both sides. A few minutes later, the compound explodes,
and the
team runs off, with Luthien heading his own way to help draw off some
attention. He catches up with a pack of Chocobos, hitches a ride on
them, and skeddadles before the main party moves too far off from Anshan.

Day 8: The groups are heading their opposite ways. Luthien heads east
by Chocobo, and the main party heads north. Gary performs surgery on
the stranger's arm.

Day 9: More travelling. Luthien encounters the Chocobo Forest, plays a
minigame, and heads off north with a friendly Moogle with a bad map.
The main party heads north, catching a ride with some sandy fellows
the stranger summons.

Day 10: More travelling for Luthien. The main group - Dias, Gary,
Yakato, Alex, Remy, and the as-yet unknown boy - arrive at the base of
a mountain range, and attempt to decide whether to take the high or
low road on their borrowed Chocobos. This process is interrupted by a
call via the I-DEMON. Yakato returns
to Earth, and shortly after Tesseracts assault the heroes on both
sides of the portal. Alex, Dias and Gary speak with the owner of the
Tesseracts, and continue on their journey across the mountains.

Day 11: Luthien arrives in Vir Luminarium, and begins to sign up for
the tournament. His sword is stolen by two old men, who he summarily
kills; he is then captured by Rune Knights. He attempts to seduce his
captor, Kasia, finding out afterwards that she is married. Ferrum
arrives, the three have a chat, and once Ferrum leaves Luthien manages
to break free. Crinis, a Dark Knight who was also signing up for the
tournament, 'borrows' Luthien's Chocobo and saves him. Ferrum chases
after with a Chocobo commandeered from the paddywagon; a high-speed
fight ensues. Ferrum barely eeks out a win, captures the two
fugatives, and retires to a nearby forest to relax and recover before
returning to town. One Rollan Khan appears and helps Luthien escape,
and Ferrum confronts Luthien, Rollan and Crinis. They barely win the
confrontation, and eventually stumble upon a weapons merchant in a
hole on the ground. There, they meet Kumark Moggleston III, Esq., and
the three travel until dusk, finding a clearing with a stone marker
similar to what Luthien found two days earlier. Atop a mountain in the
distance, Alex, Gary and Dias find themselves in sight of some ruins
resting on a ledge above the clearing, barely illuminated by the sying
sunlight. They investigate, finding the ruins mostly surrounded by a
wall of air, which Gary (using the Crystal) and Alex (using her runes)
form a hole through. They explore the ruins, as detailed in the
chat-logs, and find the first Rune Knight, Theodore. He explains some
and leaves much unanswered.

Day 12: Luthien, Crinis, Rollan and Kumark make their way up the
mountain come dawn, using the ever-so-fun technique of a
Moogle-Rocket. They, too, come upon the ruins. Yakato teleports in
from Somewhere Else, after talking with the Man In Brown, finding
himself sitting in the stony ruins. Dias, Alex and Gary teleport up
from underneath the ruins, the Wind Crystal in hand. The new, larger
party ventures down from the mountain and into a peaceful farming town
on the plains, where they spend the night.

Day 13: The party awakes from a good night's rest, while the town
awakes to the remnants of an unnoticed fight in the street. Meanwhile,
someone sneaks into the party's rooms and attempts to make off with
the Green Crystal - but slips, falls, and as such alerts everyone. The
person's voice is familiar... It's Meirle, come to steal the Green
crystal. Caught, she explains the situation - while trying to obtain
another crystal (Ice), she was caught and counter-steal'd. The party
decides to head after Fire and Ice.

Day 14-16: Travel. The party eventually finds a cave, where numerous
traps are set. Meirle disarms them all as the progress, and they find
a living space with a laptop computer, apparently once owned by four
college-aged men. At the cave's exit, Gary dissapears, and a
middle-aged man with a cigarette appears from the darkness. The
cigarette-smoking man waxes eloquent for a moment, before Shayne and
his troops - members of the ASIS (Australian Secret Intelligence
Service) - burst into the cavern. A fight ensues, involving many
explosions and much asskick-fu. The Smoking Man dissapears after
attempting to blow up the entire cavern, and Shayne sends his
casualties home. The team, having recovered the two Crystals the
Smoking Man held, rests at the cave's enterance.

Day 17: The team, having rested, talks with Shayne, who heads off to a
large city to the west. The party decides to head north, to the
border, and avoid dities until crossing it.

Day 18: The party finds a traveling merchant (Dalia), purchases some
equipment, and keeps heading northeast to the mountainous border.
There, at nightfall, they find a monastary for monks of The Way.

Day 19-20: Luthien trains at the monastary and learns to Brawl in The
Way. Everyone else idles around.

Day 21: The party leaves the monastary. not too long thereafter, they
come upon a precipice with a stone, overlooking the land to the north,
and naming the city on the coast as Aquamarine (technically,
Vert-Bleue). They enter the city and split up, looking for
information. Kumark fights some brigands and saves an aristocratic
Moogle lass named Katherine; Luthien talks to a captain of a
less-than-reputable ship about passage to the Azure Islands. Dias gets
his pockets picked at a world-record pace.

Day 22-30: The party sails aboard the Colichemarde, captained by Estoc
Cochrane, passing the Refulgan Fleet in the midst of a storm and
landing on the southern shores of the Azure Islands, near the fishing
village Ruce. They hop on a ferry and go north, to Asrag Biet, capital
of the Azure Islands. Once there, they're
captured by the local guards, questioned by an official, and let loose
to resupply and prepare for war.

Day 31: Resupplying and putzing around.

Day 32: WAR. Rune Knights and Refulgan footsoldiers invade the city of
Azrag Biet, meeting little resistance at the city limits. As they
enter the city, the resistance mounts, and geurilla warfare breaks
out. Dias, Rollan, and Kumark ambush a group of Rune Knights by
jumping off the rooftops, and easily begin to rout them. Luthien,
leading a small group of Paladins, shows up to help, but the Refulgans
have help of their own - Miles Ferrum, dragging Cain Renshield. Cain
lets spells loose as ferrum fights against increasingly bad odds,
finally being beaten and held at swordpoint by Kumark. He feigns
surrender, and injects Cain with an unknown substance, which akes the
addled Time Mage create an odd Black Hole / X-Zone hybrid spell. This
spell transports the entire battlefield's worth of occupants to far
reaches of the hemisphere...

Dias is transported to Leaftown, where he is quickly met by Leona.
They talk, and split up before bed. Leona meets Aede, Dias meets
Sarah, and the Sikkiyn and the Azragi soldiers who came along for the
ride hit the sack.

Luthien and Kumark stay in Azrag Biet. There, they meet Sri, a ninja
working for the Sikkiyn who are working for the Holy Order. They raid
a Refulgan camp, generally pwn, and return to fanfare from the other
successful raids.

Rollan lands in a muddy, unpopulated village, along with a few new
faces (Naoka amoung them). Soon encountered by Adonne, and accompanied
by a Paladin who fought alongside Luthien in the Battle for Biet, they
explore the town to find it empty - but not for long: Laoch and Tairis
enter town, claiming they know where the Crystal of Water is. Much is
discussed.

Day 33: Dias, Leona, and Aede discuss their plans, and Leona
communicates with various off-world people. Apparently, the anomaly
the day previous spat stuff out over almost a third of the world, and,
if it's not too much trouble, it'd be nice to find it all again. Aede
gets chocobos from Edgar ("Eddie"), while Leona and Dias discuss their
plans. Eventually, the three leave Leaftown, and head for the Cain
drop-point outside of Anshan.

Kumark and Luthien stay in the Royal Palace. Kumark goes to a secret
underground library, trying to find out as much as possible about his
heritage. Luthien, meanwhile, hits on the lovely blonde Paladin,
Rufia. Kumark researched the past of the Blue Mages, and learns much;
then, by chance, meets Estoc Cochrane in a bar. Sri bounces around the
town, causing chaos.

Adonne, Rollan, Tairis and Laoch arrive at New Falcarragh, where they
look into the existence of a Crystal off the shores of Fangaar.
Meteoroligical data from the past century reveals a 40-year pattern of
intense storms and placid waters, and a children's book relates the
tale of ancient warriors who threw a crystal into the sea.

Day 34: Dias, Leona, and Aede meet a stranger outside of Anshan,
examining some ruins that simply appeared a few days ago. The stranger
in purple and white introduces himself as Anis Amir, working for the
freedom of Azragi in Refulgo.

Laoch, Tairis, Rollan and Adonne wake up from a rest at a local
overcharging Inn. Rollan and Tairis go to investigate some more at the
local library, but are attacked by two zombified female ninjas who
want Rollan's Crystal of Ice. Barely defeated, they hint that they are
not alone.

Meanwhile, Adonne and Laoch find an old cargo-runner at the docks;
after talking with Fredrick, the owner and captain, they hop aboard to
check it out - only to discover that they've been tricked. Handily
beating Fredrick and his two shipmates, Adonne receives the Key to the
SS Hyugens.

Later that same day, Adonne, Rollan, Tairis and Laoch board the SS
Hyugens, and with the two dockhands, set sail. A short while later,
they are magically dragged down to an abandoned, ancient city, where
the Water Crystal resides - though the Crystal has been broken
somewhat, and as a result, is rather insane. Rollan manages to
retrieve the Crystal and to begin the healing.

Day 35: Dias, Leona, and Aede meet an illicit supplier of magical
items on the Refulgo-Fangaar border, who wears a baroque red hat and
has a grudge against the Azragi of Anshan. the three, plus Amir,
narrowly negotiate their way out of a battle with him. Shortly
thereafter, Amir heads northeast for Leaftown, and the
three Earthers go south, towards Old Falcarragh.

Day 36: Aede, Leona, and Dias ride south through Fangaar, seeing
little of interest beyond mountains and plains. In the evening,
however, they find an abandoned village, blackened and shrouded in the
fog.

Day 37: Everyone meets up, including Meirle, Tairis, and Laoch -
bringing the merry group to 11 strong. However, based on recent events
- Refulgo's incredibly speedy decline into chaos, the discovery of the
possible location of two new crystals, and even tensions within the
party, they decide to split up again. Luthien and Aede will go on
their own to discover the resting place of the First Paladin (probably
buried deep under Ocassus), and hopefully the Holy Crystal as well.
Meirle, Tairis, and Laoch go off on their own as well. Dias, Leona,
Rollan, Kumark, Martinette, and Adonne go to Ocassus, Refulgo's
capital city, to hopefully swing the country away from its cycle of
war and conquest, both within and without.

Day 38: The three seperate parties begin to set off on their ways. MTL
is already gone by the time anyone else has awoken. Luthien and Aede
go towards Ocassus, while everyone else swings by Kumark's familial
home in northern Fangaar. (Travel times: Post 3720)

Day 39: Travel by Chocobo.

Day 40: Dias, Leona, Kumark, Rollan, Adonne, and Martinette find
Kumark's estate in the forests on the northern Fangaar border.

...Skipping these entries for lack of anything to write in them.

Day 44: Thanks to Aede's amazing Navigational abilities, Luthien and
Aede arrive at Occassus early and easily, to find it a state of
schizophrenia. They easily make their way to, and through, the
ex-Paladin temple where a Crystal is being kept, and at the bottom,
find the First Paladin, who calls himself "Godseeker".
There, Luthien receives the Shadow Crystal, along with a few artefacts
from Godseeker's life. But Dias and his team are right behind them,
and the Mysterious Smoking Man is even closer. After an intense, blody
fight, the Smoking Man damages the Water Crystal and escapes through
an interdimensional portal, with the Water Crystal chasing right
behind. The party is sucked through the wormhole, are told a few minor
details by the Man in Brown, and deposited on Earth, in a
sci-fi/fantasy convention. Leona and the Therans rent a hotel room,
but quickly leave it in favor of a military base outside of D.C. Aede
and Dias share a hospital room at the local medical university, and
are treated for their injuries sustained during the Smoking Man fight.

Day 45: Downtime. Rollan contacts Life, Wind, and Water via Shadow,
while others learn skills or buy supplies. Life is somewhere in the
American Midwest, interacting with a sample of Elixre provided the
government by Luthien. Wind is somewhere near southern Japan, in
mid-air, flying under some non-magical power. Water is in extreme
pain, somewhere in northern Russia.

Day 46: Planning. The team flies off for Oymyakon, Russia. There, the
team encounters the Smoking Man, pursued by Alex and Shayne. Following
the three, they end up in an small, abandoned underground military
complex, full of tools that seem designed to torture elemental
entities such as the Crystals. Here, a battle goes down, resulting in
the madness in the crystals combining, taking over Shadow and most of
Water, and taking on the appearance of Rollan. Before this faux-Rollan
can get too dangerous, it is sealed in a dimensional rift made of
stolen moments and points by the Man in Brown, who encourages all
present to not destroy the crystals, but to try and free them of their
madness.

Days 47-55: Side-quests. Dias, Rollan, Aede and Luthien get the Life
crystal from Gary, who was studying the Elixre sample provided by
Luthien earlier via the US Gov't in Columbia, Missouri. They defeat a
monster borne of Life's need to find its fellow crystals in a suburban
neighborhood there.

Day 56: Return to Oymyakon to confront faux-Rollan. The party, plus
Ferrum, Alex, Meirle, Tairis, Laoch, Shayne and Zvezda enters the
rift, and travels through a few 'frozen in time' locales, before
finally finding the Madness incarnate in the frozen lab in Oymyakon -
which turns into an ancient castle, then the facility in Anshan, then,
finally, an abandoned and burned village somewhere. The group finally
defeats the Madness, through prayer to the Firsts, taking advantage of
the Madness' grip on the Shadow crystal, and hijacking its own magic
against it. The entire party returns to Oymyakon, and walks into the
sunset.

> (If there's anything I forgot to mention - person, place, or thing -
> do say so. But I think that should cover plenty.
>
> So... I think that's it.
>
> JonB, ball's in your court.)

((Then, as my first official dictum, I would encourage each of you players to
write your own personal epilouge describing your character into the present day.

((This also buys me some time to finalize things on my own end.))

The worlds are saved from the brink, but there is no permanence in
such security. Everything moves forward; we can only hope to steer,
and stay above the edge.

...

Ferrum wanders his new home world, quickly learning just how different
it is. He contemplates his abilities, awoken by Alex, and how that
fits in with his Runic Knight training: How do you prevent magic from
getting out-of-hand, when those who police it must also partake?

With this in mind, he begins to look for a way to train new Rune
Knights, mindful of their potential, more willing to seek solutions
beyond the sheer violence that caused his exile and his country's
ruin. He opens a school in North Dakota, where much of what he teaches
is mistaken for meditation and karate. But a small number of people
pay attention to his teachings: Most of them are, in one form or
another, in the employ of the US Government.

As of 2007, Ferrum still lives in North Dakota, and is still adjusting
to life on Earth. He no longer speaks of Mages.

...

Alex, a Rune Knight on a world that no longer wanted them, traveled
also. She wandered Thera, especially the small towns of Refulgo, and
taught her story to anyone who asked. She was one of the only Rune
Knights not hated by both government and man, though she was strongly
encouraged not to practice her craft.

She visited her father in Azrag Biet several times; still insane, but
no longer drugged. She brought both him and his work, such as could be
recovered, to the attention of Edgar Vercingetorix.

Eventually, she traveled on. As of 2007, no one knows her exact
whereabouts.

...

Meirle, Tairis and Laoch continue to seek out the remaining three
crystals. Though confident that the Madness will not return any time
soon, they cannot help but worry about 'next time', nor can they rest
until they know that no other crystals are wounded as Water was.

When not exploring ancient ruins or the lost treasures of some
Refulgan noble, they live in Fangaar, funding efforts to improve its
economy with their gains, hoping to give it enough financial strength
to break away from the revolution to their north.

As of 2007, they own a mansion in Falcarragh, which they use as a
home-base when not traveling the world. Laoch is looking for an elvin
girl from back when. Tairis routinely rides the trains, talking with
swordsmen such as he can find; he plans to have a big meeting of them
within a year. Meirle still has a thing for knights in shining armor,
one in particular.

...

Many others touched the lives of those who fought the Madness: Cale,
Crinis, Sarah, Drake, Adonne, Kumark, Estoc Cochrane, the Firsts, Cain
Renshield, and many more. Their lives were full and important, but
touched the events of the four years intervening then and now only in
subtle, untraceable ways.

...

The countries of Thera begin to come to grips with the new political
order of their world.

Refulgo continues to move towards a brighter future, but it's not an
easy road. There is lots of internal turmoil, the occasional
counter-revolutionary movement by old nobles against the now in-power
Resistors, and all the problems inherent in a new democracy. Beyond
the debates about the fate of Fangaar - liberate, incorporate, or
partnership? - Refulgo struggles to integrate magic into its daily
life, despite lingering anti-Mage sentiment in the populace, and to
accept that it is no longer the great world power it once was. Basic
White Mage training is offered to any citizen who wants it, as are
passports. Rune Knights are kept from assembling, and now suffer much
as Mages once did: publicly shunned, but often, privately accepted.

Azrag Biet, after rebuilding from its brief war with Refulgo, becomes
a new center for culture, learning, and magic, and it makes strides
towards becoming more technologically adept. Despite the unrestrained
economic and social growth, a lot of anti-Refulgo sentiment remains.
The Azrag Sikkiyn are flourishing, their numbers having doubled since
the war's beginning.

Fangaar attempts to finds its place in the new world, with offers from
both Azrag Biet and Refulgo to 'partner' with either. None of these
offers are accepted. Rune Knights, however, are, as well as anyone who
has two strong hands and more desire to build than destroy: Fangaar is
hoping that, with their oppression no longer maintained, they can
garner enough momentum to break free at last.

...

On Earth, the I-DEMON project is temporarily brought to a halt as
matters both physical and political are dealt with.

Australia is severely pounded in the political arena for hiding its
activities from the other I-D-capable countries. Everyone is angry at
Russia for much the same reason as they are at Australia, plus their
continued refusal to admit any connection to Zvezda. The US is blamed
for the revolution in Refulgo, and allowing a potentially dangerous
space/time rift to appear in Oymyakon and, earlier, in White Sands. In
short, it's a mess, and everyone is pissed.

The claims of the Man in Brown are investigated, and found to be at
least plausible: That with the current methods, inter-dimensional
travel is not as safe as once believed. Johann continues working on
methods of making it safer; in 2006, he manages to create a stable,
moderately safe (for worlds and people) two-way wormhole between White
Sands and Leaftown - in part, due to the assistance of Edgar
Vercingetorix, using much of the work of one Cain Renshield.

With travel again possible in a very limited form, the UN calls for
all I-D projects in its member nations to be combined, with some
success: Any travel off-world must be authorized by the Security
Council, though individual countries continue to develop their own
projects. Refulgo, Azrag Biet, and Etoile contact Earth on their own
terms, and become aware of how technologically behind - and magically
advanced - they actually are. Both sides want some of what the other has.

No one is entirely sure ho to handle this.

...

By the end of 2007, some 4.3 years after Dias, Yakato, and Gary
stepped through the portal and into history, the game has changed.

The countries of Thera (though not their populaces) are now cognizant
of Earth and its technology. Earth (though not its population) is now
aware of Thera and its magic. There's a lot of political turmoil, both
annoyingly piddly and dangerously important, to deal with; it's a
balancing act in more dimensions than most people can think in. The
people who saved the worlds have now, largely, left them to their own
devices.

(If there's anything I forgot to mention - person, place, or thing -
do say so. But I think that should cover plenty.

So... I think that's it.

JonB, ball's in your court.)