Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Feb 25, 2016 23:36:19 GMT -6
[Added this on Pitman's request] It has been several weeks since the group's bizarre journey at sea, where they encounter undead from the grave, figures from history, and gods from poems. They took great effect in solving the problem on the ship, and managed to do so without alarming anyone else around the world, which is good if they want to keep their new abilities a secret. With their new knowledge in their arsenal, it is likely that they are able to do much more than they have before, with both their magic and being more alert towards super natural happenings. Now we bring the story to Egypt, one of the most ancient state in history along with China, India, and Mesopotamia. The summer sun delivering enough heat to easily cook an egg, definitely not a pleasant place to be in during this time of the year. However several days ago both Dieter and Gedeon had received a letter from someone claiming to be James' secretary, asking them for help in a certain matter concerning her employer. As it may contain sensitive information, the detail was not enclosed in the letter, and ask that they meet her at a local hotel. Two air tickets are contained inside each envelopes, in case they decide to not come alone. The letter itself briefly mention that there might possibly be danger, however they would be well paid for their help. As Egypt has not been a stable place in recent years, it would be better if in the case that they come to this nation, to prepare themselves for any danger that might be expected. Recently there had been reports of a large grave digging group causing problems among the locals, even to the point where the military were sent to exchange fire with them, so any travelers might want to be careful in the rural areas that's out of the eyes of the public. Egypt itself is a place with great history and culture, for the magic users this could be an opportunity to find more information about the two worlds. Like Aion have said, travel the world and learn from your seniors, what better place than to journey to one of the major ancient nations? Surely the birth place of gods and pharaoh, the land of conflict between the religions of the old and those of Sinai, would be a more than interesting location to look at. Perhaps that was the reason why the professor had came in the first place, but that'll have to wait until they meet him or his secretary. - The sun has always been worshiped by many cultures, and Egypt takes it to the limits, after it's pretty much over their heads all year round. Only those that are indoor in modern constructions can avoid its scorching heat, such locations became more and more popular in modern times as places to rest ones body, and enjoy a nice drink without being roasted by sunlight. Sitting inside the cafeteria in one of the local hotels, is a young woman with light blonde hair, clearly not someone from around here. She is just sitting there, reading a local newspaper, and enjoying a nice glass of fruit juice fresh from the hotel. Sitting nearby is a man in suits, wearing a pair of sunglasses to cover his eyes, seemingly a bodyguard for the woman. The two seems to be waiting for someone, and likely to be the ones that had sent the letters to call for their assistance.
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Feb 26, 2016 0:29:32 GMT -6
Dieter Gerhardt had left his contact information with the people from the cruise that helped him to get through the difficulties. Though he knew the professor beforehand they hadn't corresponded in awhile prior to that occasion. So, it was a surprise to the man when he received word from a supposed associate of his to meet up with them. In Egypt, no less.
The choice of locale was less of a surprise given the professor's work, and what they now knew about the world. Egypt was always said to be a place of magic, and now with magic being a more powerful force than ever, it stood to reason that the area would become a hotspot of arcane activity as the two realms merged. The word of large scale grave robbing in the area hadn't avoided his notice either, his group watched news the world over for strange activity. Overall, he doubted it was a coincidence. Very likely other people had been making the same discovery they had on their own, or perhaps also remembered the cruise, and were now hoping to capitalize on it.
Suffice to say, he would probably end up there whether or not the doctor had asked. But since he had, Dieter elevated the importance of the task to the front of his queue and decided to go personally. Though he did not take a plane, as it were. Dieter's group had many contacts in Egypt, particularly amongst the religious and ethnic minorities. The Coptic Christians and Greeks in specific were parties that he funded and supplied equipment to, and thus had significant inroads with. The government as well was hardly the most stable and virtuous, more so with the instability of the region and crisis of refugees. So, he managed to get himself into the desert nation easily enough via an unmarked boat using falsified credentials.
He didn't come alone, but the people who came with him would probably be doing other things while he was meeting with Gransela's assistant, so it would be better served to leave their story to side. Mostly boring work like public relations and clandestine trade. Well, boring compared to what the Spear Bearer would be doing...
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Speaking of him, he was dropped off at a plaza adjacent to the hotel he was to meet the secretary at by a local cab. Dieter sported thick aviator sunglasses to keep out the worst of the midday sun, and this was augmented by a brimmed hat with a drooping curtain at the back to cover his neck and prevent burns. Shorts, combat boots, and something of a flowing tunic gave him a look of dated belonging. Like a colonial citizen rather than a true foreigner. Indeed, it wasn't his first time in this country, not even the third, so he knew what to expect from people and environment. Suffice to say he didn't travel unarmed, but his piece was surreptitiously concealed somewhere in the folds of his clothing where the bulge wouldn't be readily seen. Just a pistol, no need to break out the big guns when it wasn't clear anything bad would even happen.
He walked around the building leisurely, stretching his legs after being seated for a long time and enjoying the sun and dry air while he did. Too long had he been in the wet heat of the jungles, this was a very welcome change compared to dripping humidity. Of course he was also scoping the place out for ambushes or traps. As was said, the Arab world was far from stable in the current era. It all looked to be clear, so he eventually broke from his circuit and moved over to the table the woman and her bodyguard were seated at. According to the letter, this was the place to meet. He assumed this woman was the person in question.
Mr. Gerhardt approached at a measured pace, making sure they'd see him before he got there. He opened, "Good afternoon, miss. I'm here to meet with a Doctor Gransela's secretary. I don't suppose you're the person I'm looking for?"
He had numerous ways of coming to that conclusion. The fact she was foreign was one, the fact she appeared to be waiting another. Combined with the location, it made for a good guess. He pulled out the chair across from her and set himself down into it, taking off his hat and placing it on the table to be polite. Similarly, he pushed the shades up to his hairline and out of the way. "I'm Dieter Gerhardt, it's a pleasure to meet you."
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Post by Pitman on Feb 26, 2016 1:49:24 GMT -6
"HEY I SAID STOP!!", Gedeon shouted as he followed a man who was hooded figure. Chasing him through the streets of New York was what one could call quite troublesome. The crowds, the smog, actually Gedeon didn't like how dirty these cities were compared to others form his world. Where was the magic to automatically cleans the streets? Where was the magical teleporters that you can skip part of the city? Alas Gedeon's current job was to investigate a certain place and well it was going well until the man pulled out his fully automatic weapon and fired at him. Good thing his magic was working now and he was trying to not use it.
"Stay away you fucking monster!!", The man screamed.
"Hey its not my fault you went and stalked the Baker's daughter!! Also more you run the more you only going to cause trouble!!", Gedeon yells back.
"Fuck no!! Stay away!!", He screamed ash e fired his sub machine gun at him which Gedeon quickly suddenly jumped up through the alley way toward a nearby fire escape.
"That is a dangerous weapon!! Come on just surrender already!!", Gedeon yells back.
"HELL NO!! You monsters jus-", the man shouted only to be hit by a foot landing on his face from Gedeon as he suddenly jumped and landed on him.
The man suddenly fell to the ground, as Gedeon moved to undo the gun and broke it down into pieces.
"Seriously, these people...", Gedeon soon stated as he picked his phone to call the police.
Once done he soon left the alley way as he tied the man up which the police would fine a letter on the crime he done. As he walked away he would soon report his finding to the Baker and call it a day.
Some PI Office
Gedeon soon unlocked the door to his office and home as he held a bag of bread with him. Looking around he would soon notice Tamara was on the cough Playing some thing what us called a video game console on the large screen on the wall. She was busy shooting something up as Gedeon soon says, "What you doing?"
"Nothing, something called uhhh Call of Duty: Future War Middle East. Its quite addicting, but the plot lines make so fucking sense.", Tamara soon stated as she blew some guy's face off.
"Oh? Anyways I got food for dinner, time to eat.", Gedeon soon mentioned until Tamara soon says, "Oh some letter came in for you. I didn't open it but it didn't say from whom."
Gedeon soon turned to today's pile of mail and began to sort through them as finally found a letter for him. He would soon open it up and began to read.
Tamara would soon finish playing and get up stretching her body which almost would distract Gedeon if she bothered to even put pants on. Seriously, why would that teenage girl always wear nothing but a shirt and be in her underwear all the time. She soon walks up asking, "So What is it?"
Gedeon soon hands her the letter then says, "Pack your things we are heading off to the middle east, and for real."
"Huh?", Tamara managed to say which she noticed two tickets Egypt.
_______________________________________________________________
Egypt, Airport
'We continue to fight against the Muslim Brotherhood who continue to attack our people. Ever since the Arab Spring-', a tv screen stated off to the distance as two totally foreigners arrived at the airport.
"So this is Egypt.", Gedeon soon stated as he was carrying his bags with him, Tamara who was right behind was in short shorts and well lets say she was sweating all over.
"Its too hot...", Tamara complained as her sun glasses were on her head.
"Stop complaining, lets see, where was this place to go again?", Gedeon managed to say as he looked over a paper then soon saw a cab playing some instrumental music.
Noticing the Cab and in service he soon walks up to it with soon asking, "Sir... sir!!"
The man who was chilling to his music soon turned to Gedeon and soon asks in broken English, "You ride? American?"
Gedeon soon nods, "Yes we need a ride to this hotel can you take us there?"
The man soon says, "Yes Yes, I know hotel. Inside get."
Gedeon soon turns to Tamara then waves her over who soon came in like a struggle with the heat. Soon the bags inside the trunk of the cab soon went off towards the hotel at a high speed. As the cab zigged zag through the traffic Gedeon and Tamara were holding on for dear life in the back of the cab.
"Can you please slow down?!!", Gedeon soon shouts.
"What? You want Faster?!", the cab driver stated as he accelerated even faster.
"What? No SLOWER SLOWER!!", Gedeon soon shouted as it moved through the traffic at a faster rate.
Some Time Later at Hotel Entrance
Both Gedeon and Tamara maanaged to dragged themselves into the Hotel that they had to meet.
"Slower.... slower.... slower...", Gedeon muttered as he was kissing the ground.
Tamara soon managed to drag herself next to him muttering, "Finally air conditioning... air conditioning..."
They would both dragged themselves towards the nearby cafeteria and both soon shout, "WATER PLEASE!!"
As they both grabbed a bottle of water and it within seconds, to the cafeteria staff looked sort of weirded out by the two new guests.
"FINALLY!!", Gedeon managed to say.
"AH PARADISE!", Tamara soon added as they both suddenly changed their mood.
As they both were finished they both soon turned to see Dieter talking to a blonde woman.
"Dieter?", they both asked at the same time as they would walk towards him.
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Rabite
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Emperor of H
Hey, look over here.
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Post by Rabite on Feb 26, 2016 2:38:12 GMT -6
The woman looks up towards the newly arrived group, and places the newspaper aside before standing up to give them a light bow. Afterwards, she reach out for a handshake, and introduces herself.
"I'm very happy to see that you have accepted my request, my name is Kate Casimir, and I currently work as James' assistant and co-writer. I'm honor to meet you, Mr. Gerhardt. James have told me many stories about you. And you two are... Mr. Salvator, and Ms. Ashborne? Please, have a seat."
She seems quite young to be able to co-write along with James, but it's clear she's not someone that you'll meet everyday, if you haven't guess so from the existence of a bodyguard beside her. She speaks in a way that draws in the attention of others, but in a different way from how James does it. James draws in people using his vase knowledge and passion for life, with lively words that seems to create a rich movie that brings others into his world. The woman, who had introduced herself as Kate, speaks so in an alluring manner. Although she haven't done anything special yet, one would feel comfortable, feel at home just from listening to her. She's well educated from the sparkle of wisdom in her eyes, but unlike her employer she does not use them for calculation of others, so she feels less sharp towards others. Not much is known about her yet, but at least she's not a vase, not something just for her looks.
"Feel free to order anything if you wish, all expenses would be paid by our company while we are here in Egypt so there's no need to worry."
A waitress comes over and give a menu to each one of them, it's got English in them, understanding that Arabic is not a common language for foreigners not from the Arabic world. Kate lets everyone get a chance to order before starting to explain why she asked for them.
"Two weeks ago, James had received an invitation to come here in Egypt by someone known as Mr. Rashidi, a name that is unfamiliar to myself or to James. It mentioned a curse was laid on a village, Southwest from the town of El-Rashda. Reading this, he had decided to head over to take a look, and was scheduled to return within a few days. Before he left, he had given me a few contacts, and asked me to communicate with them if he had not returned after ten days... and sadly, I have not heard from him since."
She looks a bit worried, and she should be. James had records of traveling to all sort of exotic places and returning without losing a limb yet, however he tends to maintain contact while doing so, it was quite rare for him to suddenly lose all communication even during explorations.
"But I'm glad that you have accepted my invitation, or else I won't know what I could do!"
Looking slightly more glad and happy that not just one, but all three of them had come to help, she had a bit more confidence than she started with. Her other choice was to ask her family for help, but their choice is probably send in an army of mercenaries, possibly starting international diplomatic problems in the progress.
"I don't know what I can do to persuade all of you to help me, but I have no where else to turn. James had placed his trust in you, and I believe it is the best to do so myself, will you help me find him?"
After seeing that they have agreed to help, she sighs in relieve before thanking them, before taking out the letter that she had mentioned. Handing it over to the group for them to each take a look, it seems like any regular piece of paper, written in Arabic. Another set of paper follows the letter, which is the translated version of the letter. Judging from the writing, James was not the one that did the translation, if it was then it would only be slightly more readable than a doctor's writing as shown by the scroll he had given them several months back.
The letter was as she had explained, talking about a curse that's causing scratch like wounds. After futile attempts to find the source of the problem, the village leader had decided to find outside help, and James was one of the many that have been invited to solve this mystery. The paper seems to be quite aged, on further inspection, those with knowledge of Egyptian history would notice that this is actually not paper but papyrus. It's quite rare for regular people to use such materials, however it is still used in some rural areas around the world.
The letter had explained very little about the curse, other than the scratch like wounds and that no one has seen the cause of these wounds, it is like they have suddenly appeared out of thin air. Perhaps more explanation could be obtained if they ask around at the village, which could be reached by the attached map.
"Is there any questions? Feel free to ask anything you want to know, I'll be happy to answer."
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Feb 26, 2016 3:13:20 GMT -6
The German took her hand and gave it a firm shake, and indeed, as he spoke she wouldn't be able to miss his accent. He spoke English well, but there were some remnants that hinted of origin and added a unique flare to his method of speech. Interestingly, it seemed to add power and personality rather than detracting as it sometimes did. He shook Gedeon and Tamara's hands as well upon seeing that they arrived.
"Ah, good to see you both again. I trust you're well?" He said to them in brief to not distract either party from greeting one another.
Dieter orders himself something to drink and a cut of meat to chew on while they talk. Something light. Filling the stomach in this heat could make one sick easily, just one hazard of the climate. He mostly helped himself to that while she relayed the information leading up to them being invited, finishing it at about the same moment Kate had ran them through the works. Even though he used utensils, he wiped his hands on a napkin first to be sure, and then donned his gloves before taking the letters. That way, no oils or other detritus from his skin would get on and smudge the letters. A simple thing to do, but it showed that he was familiar with working with fragile items himself.
He knew Arabic, so he compared the two letters as best he could to see if there were any discrepancies. In fact, he knew a lot of languages...but that was neither here nor there. "I would be happy to help, Miss. Dr. Gransela is a renowned scholar, the world wouldn't be the same with his loss. Along with that, he has helped me before, it wouldn't be right to not return the favor. Don't you think?" He mentioned while going over the notes and attached map.
That said, he did have some questions. He went ahead and voiced them now in order.
"This letter says that James was hired two weeks ago, but was he informed of how long ago the curse itself began? Furthermore, are there any other documents of his correspondences with this Mr. Rashidi, or anyone else associated with the village? Second question: This letter mentions that other parties were also invited, do you know who they were? Was there a reward offered for the help, or was it a purely scientific venture?"
Dieter reasoned that perhaps one of the other parties could have tried to get rid of him to claim the glory, or perhaps reward if there was one. Even if not, solving a crisis would be great publicity. Men had fought over less before. The Orchid Wars coming to mind quite puissantly. Academia wasn't always fought with just papers and refutations.
"For the moment, my final question is about the political climate of the village. What is the demographic, religiously and otherwise? Has there been rebel activity around it, or other conflict? Those sorts of groups often try to take hostages to fund their war efforts. I do not recognize the village by name, you see."
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Post by Pitman on Feb 26, 2016 17:09:41 GMT -6
Both taking their seats Gedeon soon replies, "Egypt has crazy drivers..."
Of course they could of simply been purely unlucky, or lucky? Well whatever the case both would seat down with their own luggage next to them and soon looks at the woman before him. She didn't look much in terms of marshal abilities so understood she was obviously an office worker in a way. When the menu was given thankfully they gave them english ones he looked at it but he was not hungry. After after such a crazy drive he simply requested some water and some fruits to keep his stomach calm. Meanwhile Tamara ordered anything that was cold on the menu which Gedeon noticed as they piled various deserts and other icey things.
"What, its fucking hot...", Tamara muttered as she ate like a pig, which Gedeon soon just sighs.
"You wonder why I am always working too.", Gedeon then mutters as they discussion soon began.
On hearing about a curse and being hired for it the more he wondered if it could be another portal. After all most things are always a portal or something from his world causing the super natural. When hearing of scratches and then about a curse he soon sighs, "Great... this could only be one thing then."
This made Tamara head turn to Gedeon as she continued to stuff her mouth with ice cream then says, "What we dealing with some ancient curse from Egyptian Myth?"
Gedeon soon answers, "The situation sounds errily like our last trip. As you know anything like this probably means another portal, and if another portal means more trouble. Please I hope its not Hathor, she hates me."
Tamara eye brow soon raises at this then asks, "May I ask why Hathor hates you Gedeon?"
"Uhh you do not want to know, being in Egypt once was bad but when you piss off a goddess you simply never return if your life depended on you. Regardless whatever this curse is I say we better get going and deal with it before other issues start.", Gedeon soon stated meaning they better get moving.
"What, what else could happen?", Tamara then asked.
"Do you not know the various plagues and curses Egypt can go through? No matter what it is, if its Egyptian its best to deal with it asap. I mean didn't you even pay attention to class about this?", Gedeon then stated which Tamara replies, "Since when did you pay attention?"
"Since the day I pissed off Hathor.", Gedeon soon answered.
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Feb 26, 2016 22:47:22 GMT -6
Kate takes a look at some data in a folder when asked about the details of the curse, flipping to the right page about some research James had done before he had left.
"The curse according to the letter, had began about three months ago, it had came suddenly and without a warning. Mr. Rashidi does not seem to be anyone of interest, at least not someone famous enough to be known. Their village is fairly small, but judging from its location they might have relations to local religious locations, which is decently common here in Egypt where they have preserved historic sites."
A few names are written down as a few members that was mentioned in the letter, and was invited by the Mr. Rashidi. They mostly seem to be medical practitioners with some fame, a few researchers, and there was even a miracle worker on the list. However none of them seems to specifically stand out. As the letter has explained, Mr. Rashidi offers ancient artifacts for anyone that is able to find and deal with the source of the curse, which caught James' interest. He himself was also interested in this 'curse', which could be related to magic, however he did not seem to have mentioned this to his assistant.
"As I have mentioned, there are little information about the village. The village is so small and of little importance that even local rebels do not try to take it, judging it to be a waste of time. It's not even marked on a regular map, and took us a bit of time before we could find it. However the area is known to have several temples and ruins, which draws many type of people, including criminals so we might want to be careful about that."
She answered the questions brought up by Dieter, and answered them to the best of her abilities. However it is likely that there are things that James did not left behind, so they would not be able to get his judgment about this case before they could find him. It should also be pointed out that Egypt is not exactly a lawful place, especially when you are far away from the major cities, so Dieter's guesses of rebels or other armed groups could possibly operate near their destination.
"Is that all the question we have? If so then lets go, I have prepared a vehicle for us, we can take that to our destination. A four seat vehicle, so... Kevin, you can stay here and watch the luggage."
"But ma'am, the old sir has asked me to keep you safe... as you wish."
She look at him without saying anything, and eventually he gives up and do as she wishes, handing her the keys to the vehicle that's parked outside before leaving. Kate juggles the key in her hand, looking at the others to see if they would like to drive instead. She puts on an explorer hat, a pair of sunglasses, and a thin long cape to protect her from the sun along with some suntan lotion. Without these protections they would get fried by the burning sun out in the desert, better to be safe than sorry.
"I was told it's a German vehicle, and should do well even in the sand. Do anyone of you want to drive instead?"
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It would take quite some effort to find their destination, even with the help of the map. It's at a fairly remote place, and not everyone knows about its existence. After doing a bit of digging they finally found the right direction, but on the way there they are stopped by some local guards.
"Where are you going? It's a desert out there."
"We are archaeologists hired by the government to investigate the condition of the structures nearby, here are our documents."
She explains their reasons for being here, and produce actual legal documents about their identities. The guards seems a bit suspicious of them, as half of them seems to be of other professions. However they produced legit documents, so it's not something that a bottom level guard like him should worry about. The guard hands them back the documents, before saluting them and allowing them to pass.
"Please be careful out there. There are news of several grave digging groups being active in the area, if possible please report to the local police if you spot them. Thank you and have a nice day."
Leaving the borders of the city, now they're in the area that's far from the protection of civilization. Out here, steel and lead do the talking, if you don't have a big enough gun with you then you could be in danger. All they could see when they look out the windows are sand, lots and lots of them, and some are being kicked up by the vehicle's tires. It gets worse when they realize that there's no paving that leads to the village itself, so they're forced to actually drive into the desert and make a path for themselves.
After avoiding over a dozen cactus in total, and having some wild runs over some steep sand dunes, they finally reach their destination. The village is small indeed, one can see all of their houses just by looking around. A half broken stone statue stands in the middle of the village, with the head damaged and broken off by something. Several villagers that are around looks at the new arrivals, but turns away without making any conversations on their own. They seem civilized enough, at least they're wearing modern clothing and not acting like some isolated tribe. One of the houses are larger than the others, which seems to belong to the village leader.
"From what I guessed, Mr. Rashidi might be the village leader, or at least we might be able to find him there. Perhaps he might tell us more about where James have disappeared off to?"
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Mr. Rashidi was a man who sounds like he is in his mid-30s, holding a bronze ankh in his hand. Much of his face and head is covered by a head cloth, so the group could not see his face. He was sitting before a wooden desk, reading about something when he noticed the visitors and looks up.
"Can I help you?"
Noticing that the visitors seems to be foreigners, the man uses English to communicate with them, wondering what they might want from a small village like this. He had sent invitations out to others, but this group was not one that he expected. If you need information from someone in the village, this man is probably their best bet, being the one responsible for the invitations in the first place. That said, the others in the village are avoiding strangers, and might not even know English, so communication with them might be a problem.
Along with the man in the room is an old man in his later 70s, sitting on a large chair at the back of the room. The man does not seem to show any care about the group, nor does he seem to be doing anything other than just sit there. He seems to be mumbling about something, but far too lightly to be heard by anyone of them.
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Feb 27, 2016 0:54:04 GMT -6
Dieter took a small notepad out of a breast pocket and wrote down everything that he was told, keeping a tidy record for future reference. After he handed back all of the documents to the girl, of course. He looked at the pair with him expectantly to see if they had any questions, but apparently they did not. That surprised him.
"Let's hope we don't anger any goddesses here today, shall we? One curse is evidently enough for an entire village, I don't think we need to be adding more to the equation." He said to the pair from another dimension to lighten the mood again. He made a brief note about that in his book as well before tucking it back into a pocket. After finishing his water, he stood.
"No further questions for the moment, miss. I believe that the sooner we're on the site, the sooner the real work can begin. I find that getting one's hands dirty is the best way to learn, rather than burying your nose in books from afar. Not that it doesn't have it's uses." The man said, underlining his own philosophy. He held up a finger before going on. "One second, if you'd be so kind. I need to fetch my things as well."
Gerhardt had gotten a room at another establishment close by, since he wasn't sure what this meeting would entail. Private nature and all. So he had to run quickly and close out of that, along with getting his things for the trip. Likely, they'd be operating out of the village, or that's what he'd like to do. He had a suitcase and a backpack to his name, along with an almanac produced by the government for reference on the region later. He'd picked it up ahead of time on a whim, apparently a good hunch. The explorer moved fast and didn't keep them waiting long before rejoining them in the parking lot.
Dieter gave an impressed whistle upon seeing what they would be driving, and he ran a finger along the tanned paint appreciably. "A VW kubelwagon. A fine vehicle. I haven't seen one of these in a very long time. You have impeccable taste, Miss Casimir. Impeccable connections as well, if I might be so bold as to guess. They're quite rare these days."
The man smiled as he took the keys from her, taking the offer to drive with actions rather than words as he slid into the driver's seat. "I believe I'm up to the task. One of you, pass me the map if you would."
He took a moment to stow his luggage under his seat, getting comfortable before starting the engine. Of course, he waited for Gedeon and Tamara to get in as well. "Let's see what awaits us, shall we?" The spear bearer asked as they pulled out into the road and off towards their destination...
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Dieter proves himself to be a very capable driver, even when going off road, and a good navigator as well. Compared to jungles, the desert was easy. Not nearly as often did he have to do it with vehicles, that added another level of complexity. Fortunately they had dressed fairly well for the occasion, even though the other two people Kate invited didn't seem particularly hardened to the desert. Dieter hoped they were smart enough to bring canteens with plenty of water, they'd need it, even while driving.
With his sunglasses, the driver was easily able to see the approaching village when their drive was at its end. The presence of people did not bother him, nor did their xenophobia. It was to be expected out here in the deserts, they likely didn't get visitors much. A cursory glance didn't reveal any surface water sources, so he had to guess that they survived off of springs. Perhaps backed up by cisterns filled during the short rainy period. Along with that he observed the broken statues and the tallest building in the city.
"Let's start there." Dieter agreed with Kate. He slowed down as they moved down the hamlet's dirt roads, so as to not bother the people or any animals they kept too badly. On the way by he nodded his head to the statues. "I wonder what the story there is, religious iconoclasm perhaps? Popular with Muslims of the late."
The kubelwagon was brought to a stop in the yard before the village leader's house, and he killed the engine summarily. He pulled himself out first and then got the doors for the two ladies, or just Kate if Gedeon was enough of a gentleman to do so for Tamara. Whatever the order of departure, he was the first to head to the door and knock. On it, or the wall beside it if it lacked an actual door.
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"Good afternoon. Mr. Rashidi, I presume?" Dieter said in opening. "My name is Dieter Gerhardt. My associates and I here are friends of a Professor James Granesla. I understand that you hired him somewhere in the neighborhood of two weeks ago to assist you in a problem of yours? We were wondering if you knew where he was? He was supposed to be in contact with his assistant here, Miss Casimir while on the case. Suffice to say that hasn't happened, and so we've came to see if we can offer assistance. To him or perhaps yourself, if the problem is still ongoing?"
Dieter wasn't sure how to open with this, so he kept things need-to-know. Who they were, why they were here, and what they could do for this man. Ideally, if he thought they could help, he'd be more willing to offer information. Similarly, knowing they're with James might get him talking as well if he was fond of the professor, or make him worried if he had done something to him. All good avenues of approach, played with a few words. He didn't want to talk too much for the girl either, so he kept that part brief enough that she could add in if desired. The subject of the curse was something he also left out for now, tactfully. It might be a secret of sorts, so he didn't want to come off knowing more than he should and risk offending. They'd see how he reacted first before moving onto that.
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Post by Pitman on Feb 27, 2016 2:58:32 GMT -6
"Let's hope, because she can be very mean.", Gedeon soon added as a reply to Dieter.
As Tamara finished her food soon they heard of a vehicle to head to the site which was now was good as any. Before heading off Tamara and Gedeon got a few Water Canteen's three each and Gedeon grabbed one specifically, an explorer tactical cross bag as he put it on. Inside the contents were unknown but he didn't wish to bring it out to scare anyone. As he saw the vehicle Gedeon comments, "How many of this trucks you guys love to make?"
Of course he meant too many cars which so many styles felt like it was just too many. As he entered he put his cross bag down on the floor as well Tamara put her Tactical Backpack on the floor as well as they were ready to go. Driving both of them continued to sit, as both looked around to enjoy the view. That is until Gedeon saw a pyramid and soon went lower in his seat.
"What its not like Hathor is there.", Tamara soon commented as she was looking through her bag.
"Not the point... even if she is not there she MIGHT be able to see us still. Ever heard of an all seeing eye? Those are literally able to see everything.", Gedeon replied back.
"Whatever floats your boat.", Tamara soon commented.
As they arrived at the checkpoint both notice the guards and how they were low grade compared to the checkpoints they saw in the actual cities. It was obvious the US government still supplied the Egyptian military gear but it seems it was only being used by their more important roles. These looked like they were still using gear from the early 2010s or late 2000s. As the guard looked over Tamara felt uneasy as his eye gave her a good look, specifically her legs which she felt really uncomfortable. As soon as they began talking of grave diggers Gedeon's head soon perked up at the notion. As they began to move passed the checkpoint Gedeon put up his hand up to his chin in thought.
"Did you see that? He was getting a look that was creepy.", Tamara commented.
"Right..", Gedeon simply replied as he was still thinking.
"Gedeon you listening?", Tamara then looked a bit pissed.
"Oh I was... just thinking..", Gedeon soon thought as his own mind went back to the grave diggers.
'Gravediggers, and a curse that started three months ago. It has to be connected, after all many Egyptian curses should happen when you disturbed the dead. Only need proof, but for now we got nothing but heresay.', Gedeon would continue to ponder as they would soon arrive at the village.
Finally being poked from his thoughts Gedeon soon head went up as Tamara was being helped out by Dieter. Only thing that almost stopped him was Tamara's ass was in his face as she got up which he almost was surprised.
"We are here you know.", Tamara soon stated as she turned around as Gedeon's head turned quickly away.
"I can see, I am not blind.", Gedeon managed to say as he got his cross bag out as he put it on himself.
Looking around he noticed the village was quite small as stated, and looked like a small little civilization in the middle of a bunch of dirt. As soon as they went a good 360 around to see everything he turned to see the who they needed to talk to. Soon after Dieter soon finished his own introduction Gedeon replies, "Gedeon Salvator and this is my bratty assistant Tamara Asheborne."
Of course that got Tamara a look as she glared of Gedeon which he soon simply chuckled. Though if anyone in the town would notice she was completely out of place. With short shorts on and well showing so much leg it would look bad to any conservative within the village. So she was given looks of disgust as she simply ignored them and continue to give Gedeon a Death Glare.
"His assistant who knows more then him.", Tamara soon added with a huff.
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Feb 27, 2016 3:28:43 GMT -6
"Ah, so you are associates of the Professor, it's a pleasure to meet you all."
After a quite exchange of greetings and handshakes they begin to exchange information, although the others in the village seems to be weary of strangers, the leader seems to have quite some experience on dealing with outsiders. Which is a good thing, so they could actually have someone to talk to, rather than blindly looking for clues.
"Professor Gransela was very helpful to us, when no other experts could suggest a reason for the curse, he had a theory on what had caused it."
He looked at a wall calendar, checking today's date and at some notes that is stick on it.
"It was around five days ago, the Professor had mentioned that the curse are caused by an angry deity, perhaps as punishment for the losses of the heirloom that we are suppose guard. We asked for his help in asking for the deity's forgiveness, and to retrieve the heirloom. The professor had agreed to do so, and had head out towards a ruin that was uncovered near our village several years ago. Of course we did not just let him go alone, but several of our men who work as tour guides in the cities have went with him, none of them had returned since."
He briefly explained the happenings, about the reason why James had disappeared, and a possible reason for the curse. He also pointed out the general direction to the ruin, in case the group wishes to search for the Professor.
"As much as we would like to help, we already lost many adult men, and can't afford to lose anymore. If the curse couldn't be cured soon then we would have no choice but to leave our homeland, in hopes of avoiding further problems."
If the explorers would want more clue, they could try asking different problems to see what else they could get from the tribe leader. There is also James' luggage and the room that he stayed in if they want to check that out. Talking to the locals might be challenging, but it could be done with some efforts by the members that can speak the local language. There might also be things that they would like to check out in the village, perhaps there would be useful clues for the future.
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Feb 27, 2016 3:48:18 GMT -6
It turned out that this man was much more personable than his kin, and that was excellent. Dieter shook his hand eagerly and was more than willing to exchange pleasantries. It could never hurt to have more friends, and setting a good example in the area was crucial. After all, he was a leader himself. Perhaps it would also calm the rest of the village to see that they got on well with one of their number. It was a hope, anyway.
"I'm glad to hear that not only was he in the area, but that he was working a solution. He is indeed a clever man, I can say, having worked with him myself." The German began, and then moved into more inquiry based on what was being relayed. "You say his theory was that a deity placed the curse? Might I ask what deity that is? I dare say that is the point zero for any solutions we'll be coming across. That is to say the beginning, if my expression isn't clear."
There were a lot of ethnic religions in this area, who closely guarded their secrets. Hopefully this wasn't one of them, or even if so, they'd be willing to share on a low level. If only so they could get help. It stood to reason they probably told James, and possibly others, for that same reason; but that wasn't a 100% guarantee. Either way, the adventurer noted the location of the ruins on his map for future reference. It was likely that they would be heading there.
"You needn't worry about risking more of your people, I've no doubt we'll be able to find the area you speak of. Ideally, we return everyone intact and not just the professor, depending on what happened. Can you tell me anything more about this curse, before we go on? We have a copy of your letter explaining the symptoms at a glance, scratches I believe? How deep, do they heal, do they happen at routine times...that sort of information could be crucial. Ideally, I would like to see someone so afflicted for myself, but I suspect that isn't particularly an option." It was evident he was hinting at the wariness of Rashidi's followers with that last line. His hinting at it was subtle, but he hoped the man would bite and elaborate more with that prodding. Namely, if they were always like this or if it was because of the curse.
He gave the man time to think while turning to Kate. "Do you suppose that you could go and collect the professor's luggage while I chat with this man here? Being his assistant, I suppose you'd be the one he would want to root through his things. As it were, I think the case warrants the invasion of privacy."
It would probably be best to split up a little bit and collect what they could. Dieter wasn't sure he wanted them to go too far until they knew for sure the village was safe, but just collecting some bags ought to be safe enough for now. It was at this point that he really began to look the man he was talking to over, eying that ankh in particular. "That's an interesting piece of jewelry you carry there. The ankh, symbol of life, I believe? Is that a badge of office or an icon of religious importance, if I may?"
This would answer his earlier question on what these people worshiped.
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Post by Pitman on Feb 27, 2016 4:05:15 GMT -6
Hearing about the current situation Gedeon looked around the area to see if anything looked out of place. So far everything looked like it should or so he thought. As he was hearing Dieter go on his greeting and saw Kate who moved to get James Luggage Gedeon soon says, "Tamara go help Miss Kate, who knows what exactly how much things he has."
Tamara soon perked up at seeing the things of an author she was a fan of, but Gedeon wanted her out of open as she was not dressed correctly to the people around who would see from a distance at the foreigners. He soon turned to hear about Dieter's question on the ankh as well hearing about the questions of when the curse began and everything about it. Once hearing everything he also knew that symbol was in fact quite used by Mages who worked in Egypt, it was a standard thing to carry. Though if the people here knew that except what they believed, they would think him crazy. Once Dieter finished his question Gedeon finally went to action.
"On that note, I do got a question for you. When coming over we heard one of the security check points talk about recent activities about grave robbers. They are rumors of course but they may have some credit on when they occurred. Did they begin around same time as this curse began? Or is it all just a bunch of baloney and it never occured?"
Of course Gedeon was asking an very important question, if it happened around same time Gedeon's theory on what might of started these curses becomes more clear. If there was a portal nearby as well could of had the curses active in this world from his own. Gedeon had to make sure on everything waited for the answer and see if there was connection.
Meanwhile Tamara walked with Kate towards the room, she was next to her which she soon asks, "So, how long have you known Mr. Gransela?"
A innocent question but something to talk about as they made their way towards the room with James' luggage.
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Feb 27, 2016 4:58:06 GMT -6
"Alright, lets go Ms. Ashborne."
Seeing that Dieter and Gedeon each had their own question to ask Rashidi, Kate decides it would be better to do as she was asked, and take a look at James' luggage instead. It wasn't a long distance to the house that James stayed at, but it will require them to head outside back into the sun. On the way there she was asked about when did she know James, so she tells Tamara after remembering the events.
"I have known him for a few years, when I was still a student he had came to my university to talk to several interest groups of writers of religion and mythology. He seemed like an interesting person at the time, passionate about his ideals and beliefs, and drawn many people to study with him. But it wasn't until a party held by my family when I had a long discussion with him, he reminded me that I should be like my ancestors, take challenges towards things that I'm interested in. So I became a writer just like him, deciding that it's better to create stories rather than crunching numbers all day."
James had stayed in a different house in the village, but most of the houses had the same design anyways. The inside seems decently clean, designed to offer some degree of relieve from the sun. There are a small table with a chair in the room, and an old but clean bed. It doesn't seem to have been used for the past few days, showing the absence of its user. A luggage bag was placed beside the bed, while there are a few notes on the table, neither of them seems to have been used or moved recently.
Both items were owned by James, and was left here when he went to check out the ruins, not expecting to be gone for so many days. The bags contained some items important for traveling, such as sets for personal hygiene, passport and other identifications, and a decently filled wallet. Looks like the locals are quite honest, and did not touch his belongings. The only thing useful to them inside the bag was his cellphone, the batteries are out from being on for days, which could explain why James did not send any calls back since he had arrived here... there's no power plugs here to recharge it. There is also some half eaten packs of jerkies, possibly leftover rations?
The notes on the table contains writings by James, his writing recognized by Kate, which is a good thing since they may as well be considered magical runes with his level of handwriting. It is a miracle that someone can actually read it, good thing his assistant is around to do it, being used to reading all sorts of language to figure out that this is actually English. The notes mentioned the connection between the curse, a certain unidentified deity, and the need to recover the heirlooms that were stolen. The ruins might contain some clue on the deity, as the locals seems to worship an unrelated deity which should not cause such curses to happen. He also noted that he spotted groups of people near the ruins, and would have to consider dealing with them if they come in his way.
She organizes the notes left by James, and packs them away in folders that are in the luggage, before turning to head back outside.
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The man doesn't seem to mind being asked about their religion, at least if he did he have not shown any on his face.
"We have traditionally worshiped Anubis, the god of funerals and death. Believing that he will watch over us when our time comes, and guide us to the world of the dead. However according to the professor, it does not match the curses that we had suffered from."
He hand the two a few photos of the cursed victims, there are several kind of wounds on them, more than what he had mentioned in the letter to James.
"Originally there were only the wounds that seems to be caused by something sharp, perhaps blades or claws, but then small holes seems to be forming. The wounds would begin at the bottom of the victim, usually the legs, before slowly moving upwards. By the fourth day the wounds would appear on the victim's neck, and that would be the end of their life. The wounds do not heal, and any efforts we have tried do not stop them from appearing. The victims seems to be random, but some of the villagers believe that animals could help keep them away... this was not proven to be true or false yet. It is impossible for us to keep our eyes on everyone at all times, but the professor had mentioned that the blade like wounds seems to appear during the day, and the holes during the night."
When asked about the timing of the curse, and the existence of the grave robbers, Rashidi gave it some thoughts before answering it. He seems a bit reluctant to talk about them, but decide to speak up in the end.
"It is true, they have appeared around the same time. We have consider them to be a cause of the curse, or at least the ones responsible for the theft of the heirloom. They believe there are riches hidden nearby in the ruins, and had threaten us to help them enter it. They might be the ones that damaged the statue inside the village, but we have no proof of it, otherwise we could have gone to the police."
The two that went to check up on James' luggage might be back soon, but there's still a bit of time if the two wants to ask Rashidi a bit more questions to follow up.
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Feb 27, 2016 5:28:40 GMT -6
Photos were the next best thing, and again, Dieter took them with a short interdiction of 'danke' in thanks as he took and glance them over. He did this while listening to the details. It made sense that he wouldn't have written everything in the letter, both for the sake of brevity and also to not alarm anyone. This sounded a lot worse than he had first thought. 'Scratches', after all, sounds fairly benign. It wouldn't be the first time he heard about particularly violent ghosts managing to inflict physical harm on the living. Like that, they often couldn't inflict deep wounds without resorting to using material objects. Hence poltergeist legends. Similar for spirits as a form of warning. But this was clearly something much worse than that if people were dying over it, and these markings looked a lot deeper than mere flesh wounds.
"Blade wounds... Hmm, I can see that. It appears to be much worse than I thought." The punctures interested him as well. It appeared they had something to 'equate' the slashes too, but those holes were a lot stranger. "About how wide would you say these punctures are, and how deep do they go? A final question on this front, do those wounds bleed and otherwise behave as normal despite their supernatural appearance? I'd heard of stigmatics before, men who bear lacerations that only sometimes draw blood or cause pain, usually during auspicious occasions. Still, it is interesting that the two types happen at different times."
There was an important matter here that he now wanted to address. "I bring that up because I'm interested in knowing what exactly is happening when they appear. I trust it wouldn't be out of place for me to say that, in this sun, many people don't sleep in the daytime? Or do they? I suppose that might be an important clue if it does, in fact, only happen during slumber. If they just appear out of thin air in the middle of someone's routine, however, that would be significantly stranger."
A rough theory there could be some kind of dream deity taking out displeasure via nightmares. The Romans had a few gods that covered that kind of thing, and they did share many gods with the Egyptians. Right now that was just very early conjecture, so he didn't voice it to give false hope. Their own god was Anubis, so he continued to try and fit the pieces. The protector of graves and judge of souls. He could very well be angry at them for failing in their task to carry out that same role. As he understood it, Anubis had a very nasty animal at his side that would eat the hearts of the sinful. Supposing the claws cause the slashes, and teeth the punctures, it could well be something like that. Or, perhaps, a spirit of an animal being used to carry out some punishment. Guiding one's soul to the afterlife surely meant that he could bring them back.
Grisly stuff.
He let Gedeon keep following up on the grave robber angle, so as to not muddy both parties' trains of thought, but he did interject once again. "What was this heirloom, precisely? If getting it back is the current best-guess solution, we'll need to know what to keep an eye out for."
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Post by Pitman on Feb 27, 2016 21:31:38 GMT -6
"So he has always been into this kinda of stuff then.", Tamara commented as they moved toward the place James stayed in the village.
When entering Tamara noticed a lot of things and even how clean everything looked. As Kate moved off to the side Tamara began to look around to see if anything looked misplaced. Well she was looking she wondered if any other clues could of been left. Closing her eyes and soon tried to see if she could sense anything off within the room. With her magical powers back though quite weaker then from her own world she secretly been retraining herself without telling Gedeon. Due to she being considered a genius she in fact managed to slowly regain herself compared to Gedeon, and managed to now sense magical energy if its close by. If it worked she might find something if not, well it meant nothing magical was here.
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Gedeon soon heard about the different times he soon comments, "Hrmm the day belongs to Horus and the night belongs to Set I believe."
Which could also help if he remembered his history of Egypt correctly. This of course can just be something else completely but it could even help Dieter a bit if he had all options.
When hearing the answer for the grave robbers Gedeon soon says, "So we got grave robbers begin messing with the dead and this curse starts around the same time. They also believe in Anubis which then leaves..."
Gedeon soon stated as he soon turns to Dieter, "I believe we may have at least figured out something here. With the graves upturn whatever these robbers did take it might of been what started this curse and if there was some type of portal around."
Gedeon hoped Dieter got his way of thinking which could explain something but it didn't explain where James went or if these Robbers would even be close by now. There was many more questions and the biggest of them left would only be a few choices.
"Where was these ruins exactly? It might be best to check it out though I got a feeling its not going to be easy.", Gedeon then asked the elder before him.
The other option of course would be try to find the robbers themselves but they needed to figure out where would they even go.
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