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Post by Carlos on Oct 2, 2012 3:00:46 GMT -6
Celebrating the Imperial Holiday of All Hallows Eve representing many different beliefs throughout the planets and cultures of the Empire. Every noble in the Academia Supremus is in attendance. Only those without the financial clout to arrive in the most fanciful, exotic, and expensive outfits, would miss this event.
Small events during the day lead up to this night. Second biggest ball of the year. Held in the Academia Ballroom. Primarily built from marble and carved by artists from all over the Empire. Massive multipane windows framed with engraved gold. Inside is a massive ballroom floor. The outer parts of it lined with table after table. A second floor has several balconies that look over the festivities inside. And balconies that hang over the outside overlooking the gardens which are adorned with a variety of wondrous lights. At the center of it. Suspended above on a platform an band with all manner of instruments plays.
Patriel had made his return to the Academy two days before the ball. Despite having been told not to assign people form his House to security. He did so, though only three men, another three from House Sassanid, and a final three that Femyeal put forth. They were dotted about the grounds and the ballroom. A surveillance room setup on the second floor in secure location. The man there helping to coordinate everyone's movements.
"1, all clear," Patriel said seemingly to himself. He was dressed in a fine suit that fit the even, but didn't stand out too much. His hair was slicked back. In his right hand he carried a cane.
"You took it seriously." Came Cirenia's voice from behind him. He jumped inside, but didn't show it. How the devil had she snuck up on him so easily. Upon turning he was further surprised. She was wearing a very beautiful silver and black gown. A black flower over her ear.
"Of course," Patriel said, looking off in the distance. "My House has done this sort of thing before."
"Well," She started with a nod and then started to walk away, looking over her shoulder as she said "I hope that you will save yourself some time, perhaps for a dance?"
Patriel eyes moved from one thing to another. He seemed genuinely confused. But then went about business as usual.
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Post by Pitman on Oct 2, 2012 3:50:58 GMT -6
Karlinsia Barbosa
Karli was in an elegant but simple brown dress though others would never show up in such garments she didn't really care about other thoughts. As she noticed the area of the ball it seemed like it was only yesterday she was on her home planet where they would go hunting for ghosts as a child. Sadly now 18 she simply was by herself as many of the other Nobles enjoyed themselves. It was all a farce but she still came as a member of the student council. As she drank wine from a glass she noticed William Ralgos looked more smug then usual which was odd. Which really it all started when Ven disappeared about a week ago after that attack on the Academia. She had suspicions but no proof, it was likely all William Ralgos doing. She continued to drink hoping Ven was alright where ever he was.
William Ralgos
William was trilled as he joined the Student Council under Treasure James Gransela he felt more respect for the man then ever before. Now was his time to show his metal but more precisely he was more overjoyed. Overjoyed by the disappearance of Ven Avenor so far no word since then but the longer he stayed away the more likely he was dead. As he talked with many others noblesse within the ball he was very generous giving many dances with many highborn ladies and simply was having a good time. Maybe too much on the wine but he didn't care this alone showed victory to likely Ven Avenor's death.
Esmeralda Darcy
Again Esmeralda was alone without her knight which by most was not odd. There was times when Dame Felicia Quinlann would disappear weeks on end but not uncommon. Esmeralda was in an very expensive but very revealing green dress that would make any man or woman drool. Regardless she only kept friendly with other nobles but kept her distance an completely odd behavior for someone who did get around. No she was still worried in her mind about Felicia and Ven still no word for the last three days from Felicia. Most of the time she would know once a day on her search but as she found a lead she suddenly went off the grid. Now she was extremely worried about her knight she may not look it but she did have a caring side to her.
She was literally known the knight since childhood being her shadow and being brought up as the one who will forever be by your side for the rest of your life from birth to old age. She had her pendant that she always wore regardless where she went and was holding it tightly. She had plans and losing both Felicia and Ven to a Bounty Hunter is out of the question. Her plans must succeed she cannot and will not fail.
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Oct 2, 2012 22:11:35 GMT -6
Among the crowd is James and his two followers, each one of them dressed in their own style. James himself was in a simple dark suit that seems completely unmatched for his title and position. Elena seems a bit nervous, not too used to attending a party as a guest rather than a guard. She's dressed in a white dress decorated with gold threads, given to her by James when she tried to use that as a reason to not join. Lastly, we have Reimu in a black dress. Compared to Elena, she seems to have more experienced being in a party, being the one that usually goes with James to these situations.
"Relax and enjoy the party more Elena, after all I worked hard in getting the funding for this."
"Um... but my duty..."
"Your duty is to serve me, so enjoy yourself, that's an order!"
James himself is quite happy to see that the party seems to be doing fine, but then frowns a bit when he remember the amount of money that he had to gather for this one event. But then he remember he'll have to put on his act, and William standing nearby, might be a good assistant for his act.
"Reimu, go over and invite our useful friend over here for a talk."
"He looks like he's got a few extra drink down tonight, you sure he can say anything more than his name?"
"Won't hurt, he'll be more likely to reveal things in this state... but watch his hands, he's not getting anything from me, certainly not an excellent partner like you."
"You watch out, if you leave me alone for too long I may consider it."
"Haha, we'll see about that."
-
A few moments later Reimu walk up to William to introduces herself, and to pass the message.
"Mr. Ralgos, am I correct?"
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Post by Carlos on Oct 2, 2012 23:37:13 GMT -6
It seemed the latest fad among the nobles is not dressing as extravagant as nobles normally do. It made the less wealthy nobles feel suddenly with the "in" crowd. At least among the more superficial circles. In any case the ball was getting well underway. The band was playing the latest music, what was popular among the new generation, as well as a few classic tunes that even dated back to Lost Terra.
The dance floor teeming with life. While others partook of delicacies or strolled about the decorated gardens. Everyone seemed to be having a fairly good time and at least for the time being the outer politics were forgotten. However a parting in the crowds quickly drew attention.
At the center of it stood a Rialeen. Light purple skin with a bit of white blemishing. Black strands of hair so thick they resembled dreadlocks, it's possible they weren't hair at all. Narrow cheekbones, with two long horns that bent back and over the head, ending behind the head. His clothing resembled strangely the cavalry uniforms of Lost Terra's early ages. A purple sash with gold trimmings about the waste. He also wore gold earrings that seemed to have segments to it. They reached all the way down to his shoulders Accompanied by another Rialeen with a similar outfit and silver earrings.
However, at their side, a human. White spikey hair and a wiry body frame. He was squatting next to him with each hand resting on a knee. Scowling at the people around them. Mica didn't like being around so many uppity nobles.
"Mica, won't you try to be civil, these are your people after all," Da'ya Reya'lin said off handily with a grin.
"Not my people," Mica retorted rising to his feet. All the nobles gathered around were gawking at the sight.
Meanwhile. Patriel had quickly received word of the disturbance and ordered two others to make sure it didn't turn into a problem. He himself continued his patrol of the outer perimeter.
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Post by Pitman on Oct 3, 2012 1:45:28 GMT -6
Karlinsia Barbosa
Karli noticed many of the nobles were gathering around one point within the ball room and choose to instead investigate from an distance. As she saw to her surprise two Rialeen's and a human. She seen them before in history sections but never in person. This was turning into an interesting night.
Esmeralda Darcy
Esmeralda simply choose to ignore the Rialeen's knowing full well they were be attending tonight's ball. Being informed and well connected she saw it as a rarity but not surprising. No she saw one of James Gransela's servants move toward William Ralgos which stroke as odd even more so.
Interesting.... maybe I should listen in...
She simply stayed her distance but her ear rings were special they enhanced all her hearing and using her own mind able to specifically target people to listen in on their saying.
William Ralgos
William was drunk but he was used to the drink so not completely understandable. He saw many leave toward to see some big new guests that had people in shock or spreading like wildfire. But to him it didn't matter he will win's tomorrow's tournament and didn't have to worry about Ven Avenor. So in his world he didn't notice a nice looking woman come up to him who asked.
Still drunk but understandable he soon replies, "Yes Darling I am William Ralgos."
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Oct 3, 2012 2:28:59 GMT -6
"Good evening Mr Ralgos, the treasurer saw you enjoying yourself, and invites you to join him in a conversation."
Reimu chose her words carefully. Just like her master, she's very careful of her own well being. And you need to watch what you say in front of a drunk, who knows if they'll go nuts over something you said.
She points at James, who nod and wave in return. James wondered what's going on when the crowd formed, but ignored it once he figured out that it's not something that will interest him. Elena however watches the group with interest, after all it's not a common sight.
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Post by Carlos on Oct 3, 2012 13:55:47 GMT -6
After being informed that the disturbance was a Rialeen Prince, Patriel made his way inside, he actually wanted to meet a Rialeen face to face. Within his family they spoke respectfully and with a bit of praise at their war making skills. Not to be confused with simple one on one fighting. They made use of a variety of tactics to achieve objectives on the battlefield.
As he neared the group, he startled, the human that had been reported to be standing with them.
"Mica," Patriel called out a few paces away. The other man turned to walk away. "Brother!"
Mica turned slowly to regard Patriel with the same scowl he gave everyone else. "Don't go getting confused. I'm not here for you. I just had to hitch a ride."
"Nonsense. The only reason you are alive, is because you claimed to be a member of House Sarcanus." Prince Da'ya said interceding on their conversation.
Patriel turned to regard him and did so with a bow of his head and his fist over his chest. "Then you have the thanks of House Sarcanus." He said respectfully. "My family speaks highly of your Warrior Caste's battle prowess."
"In my homeland they still speak of the 20th Sarcanus Marine company, they held the Fe'yan Outpost for 28 days against overwhelming odds, fighting to a man." Prince Da'ya replied in the same respectful manner.
Meanwhile, Mica moved away as they shared their little stories, he was surprised his brother would engage in such pointless conversation. Looking around he spotted Princess Cirenia standing near one of the tables watching the dance floor. Of course he wasn't aware of who she was. Confidently he walked over to her and looked down at her intently.
"Waiting for a dance?" Mica inquired with a grin. Cirenia regarded him for a moment and then nodded, extending her hand out for him to take. He led her out onto the dance floor, placing a hand on her side, the other holding her other hand up.
"You are a Sarcanus, are you not? I'm surprised you know how to formal dance," Cirenia taunted softly.
"I've had many dance partners over the years," Mica replied with a mischievous grin, his eyes looking down into her cleavage.
Cirenia looked down, as if she were blushing, but before he knew her hand was about his throat. Slowly it squeezed on his windpipe. She leaned into his ear. "A man like you could never have me," whispered Cirenia before suddenly letting him go. Walking away without another word.
Mica coughed repeatedly as he rubbed his throat and stumbled toward a table. For a moment he grabbed a knife from it, but when he looked to where the Princess had been, a woman he hadn't seen before was standing there. The look in her eyes spoke of a life of assassination. Hesitantly he dropped the knife and wondered off.
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Post by Pitman on Oct 3, 2012 15:53:57 GMT -6
Karlinsia Barbosa
Karli continued to look at the Rialeen guest and noticed that Patriel Sarcanus soon came into view. Looking like all the tension lowered a bit with his showing, but the human with the Rialeen soon left towards the Princess. After watching all that transpired she soon had the opinion of the man as an arrogant idiot. Karli continued to watch all the Nobles continue their dancing and talking as she stayed away from most of them.
William Ralgos
"Of course one of my favorite nobles in all this Academia!! I will come and converse with him.", William soon said though still drunk.
He soon at anyone watching amazement managed to walk towards James without actually messing up but anyone would note he WAS drunk.
As he walked up to James Gransela he soon says, "Marquis Gransela an honor again to talk with you. Enjoying today's festivities eh, you did manage to make this all possible!"
Esmeralda Darcy
Was sitting on a table drinking wine as she heard all that William was saying and chuckled at the idiocy. Though she maybe paying attention to him she soon noted a young man who was the younger brother of Patriel Sarcanus walk toward the Princess.
'Oh so there is one Sarcanus is so bold and stupid? I never thought I see the day.'
After what transpired she chuckled at his own arrogant stupidity not realizing who that was.
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Oct 3, 2012 17:20:41 GMT -6
"Good to see that you are enjoying the party, and that my efforts did not gone to waste. After all, by the President's orders, I... we spent much resources in this event... Say, you seem pretty happy today, care to share the joy?"
James seems to have shown a friendly attitude towards William, but if you listen carefully, you'll noticed that not once have he called William by his name or any sort of title. It is as if he is just talking to any random person rather than William Ralgos. Not only that, though James, Elena, and Reimu are all standing near William, they're standing near him, not by him. A small action that would allow the clear minded to noticed that the three of them is actually keeping their distance away from William.
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Post by Carlos on Oct 3, 2012 18:29:05 GMT -6
Patriel had to dismiss himself from the Rialeen Prince. Wanting to speak to his brother privately, but found he lost lost track of him. Going outside, he made inquires if anyone from the discipline committee had seen him, no one had. His searches brought him to noted something moving within a shadow on the ballroom, it was very faint. Casually bring up a monocle over his eyes for a moment, it didn't register heat.. So he put the monocle away and retrieved something else from his pocket. It read back nothing.
Cracking his neck to either side. "Kavadh, I may need your assistance," He said seemingly to no one.
"Where?" Came back the response.
"The roof," Patriel said before he started toward the nearest section of wall, keeping his pace and composure casual, so as to not draw suspicion. Waiting till others were out of sight, he began scaling it, deftly taking hold of the engraved marble in places that would support his weight. This sort of thing they did in elementary school and kept doing throughout a lifetime. In military training you learn how to make effective use of a center of balance in as many aspects of life as possible. So it wasn't long before he was half way up the side of the domed marble ceiling. Though there were four window panes about the top to let the stars show from places below.
Finally reaching high enough that he could stand, he reached into his pocket, pulling a different device. He waved it across the landscape of the dome. The device was emitting a particle that was of use for one particular purpose. Coating the surface of something, the particles were easily detectable, though only lasted a few minutes. Placing his contacts in, they could see the particles, and as such see if the particles were moving. And they were. A distinct pattern was moving across the surface and it was nearly naked to the human eye. In day light the stealth wouldn't be too hard for a keen eye like his, but at night it was another matter, especially in the shadows of marble work.
Quickly on his feet, he drew his father's combat knife, going into an uphill sprint. Leaping over into a flip that came down at the invisible target. A silent fight ensued. The opponent bearing his own set of knives that did not use particle accelerated edges. As they would give off light when activated. The assassin proved be more lithe and agile then Patriel expected. This wasn't merely balance training. The assailant's movements were very fluid and even confusing.
As they fought the speed of the opponents strikes only seemed to increase. Patriel found himself losing ground to the sheer speed and the fact that their were two of the blades. Realizing this, with a quick flick of his wrist, he retrieved what one would expect to be just a handkerchief. It flew at the opponent and expanded wider then it's original size would belay. The assassin thought to simply cut it in half, but when it came in contact with him, it adhered onto his person, beginning to harden several times.
Much to Patriel's surprise the assassin attempted to continue his assault, but he reacted faster this time, lunging the blade into the man's heart. Only he did not stop, Patriel pressed his head to the man's chest, a second heart! As he tried to push the assailant away, the man's blade dig into his shoulder, slicing through muscle and even bone. Once more he slammed his own blade into the man's body, aiming for the armpit, twisting it a bit to get the concealed secondary heart.
Breathing hard, he pushed the man away as he died, rolling off the roof. But Patriel noted another rising from the shadows. This one carried a sword that could be categorized as a katana. Fortunately he noticed Kavadh making his way up the roof.
"SWORD!" Patriel cried out as loud as he could and with as much urgency as the moment warranted. Kavadh flung his sword without a moment of hesitation. The Marquis caught in mid air, unsheathing, and swinging in one moment of desperation. It scythed through the air and caught the other assassin before he could complete his own deadly swing.
Patriel breathed hard, he tried to retain control of his body, but despite the wound sealing glands he lost much blood. Slowly he fumbled back and began to fall through the air. The night sky cascading above into a swirling mire of lights. It was finally quiet, he almost welcomed what should come next.
Before his body could hit the ground, Mica caught him mid air, the two tumbled across the ground. The younger brother sat up and placed a cigarette between his lips.
"I really needed a light.," He muttered as he searched Patriel's pockets for a lighter.
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Post by Pitman on Oct 3, 2012 20:29:33 GMT -6
William Ralgos
William nodded drinking another glass of mine saying, "The joy of this day with the dancing, merry making, and obviously our 'friend' is not here."
He was getting more drunk as he continued to drink the wine.
Esmeralda Darcy
God what an idiot...
Esmeralda continued to sit ignoring all those trying to request a dance.
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Oct 3, 2012 21:50:57 GMT -6
"Hm? I see, perhaps some unfortunate event has stopped him from attending? Do you know about this?"
James could already guess that William is behind it, but if he can get some solid word prove then it might be handy in the future as blackmail.
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Post by Carlos on Oct 3, 2012 22:07:09 GMT -6
With the aide of Kavadh and Mica with some persuading, which involved 20 credits, they got Patriel resting against a wall while they tended to the wound. The wound was almost sealed anyway, but they added a little bit more to ensure it wouldn't open again, as well they did a deep tissue scan to ensure it didn't nick anything vital. Fortunately for them it had, but the glands in his body were sealing the wounds.
"Thankfully you'll live so I can kill you later," Kavadh said with a smile as he offered a hand to Patriel, who accepted and rose up, looking over at his brother was sitting on a nearby bench smoking.
"Mica I-" Patriel started to say, but was cut off by Mica's suddenly raised hand, that then pointed elsewhere. Following his direction he noticed the Princess standing by the doorway looking around.
"Whoever that chick is, she's been threatening to cut your balls off for a while now," Mica replied.
Patriel nodded and started toward her. Though his shoulder still ached despite the pain relievers.
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Post by Pitman on Oct 3, 2012 22:54:20 GMT -6
William Ralgos
"Hehehehe you want to know eh?", William soon said looking around and moving closer so only James can hear.
"Well I got some friends who also got some connections with those of the underground parts of the Empire. Well you see... let just say I helped along to get a certain bounty on our little friend... hehehehe.", William said all drunk.
Esmeralda Darcy
'Well well finally some good information.... now I need a bit more fool.... go James Gransela convince him to say more for me.'
Esmeralda soon smiled as she continued to drink her wine though one of the nobles not knowing why she did this smiled back thinking she was looking at him.
Elsewhere in the Skies of Echelon
"VEN!!", a female voice yelled.
Ven is hit hard on the transport as he soon got thrown onto the floor by The Duke. Bleeding with cuts all over Ven managed to roll away firing his pistol at the cyborg with no damage being done.'
"For Fucks sakes what is this guy made of?!!", Ven soon shouted.
"Boy you continue to run... I trying to make it easier on you but you keep not dying!!", The Duke soon said as a bloody cut was over his left eye.
"Uhh because I don't want to die?", Ven soon suggested.
"VEN!!", a woman soon cried out using her two hatchets on The Duke.
"Dame Quinlann be careful!!", Ven soon shouted only to be kicked by the Duke.
As Felicia and the Duke continued to fight the Duke now looking a bit more bigger then normal left arm formed a large blade appearing and blocked both hatchets.
"Girl why are you getting in my way he is none of your business.", The Duke said as both fought for supremacy to move an inch.
"It is my business if my lady tells me so!! And so happens Ven Avenor is someone she doesn't want dead!!", Felicia answered back.
"Foolish woman!!", The Duke soon won the battle cutting both Hatchets in parts which Felicia fell back on top of the transport roof.
"Now die!!", The Duke yelled.
Soon more shots were fired by Ven toward The Duke with Ven yelling, "Over here!!"
Just then Ven's communicator ear piece rang.
"Lord Avenor the DX Series Mark I is almost ready give me 45 seconds more!! As well we are getting closer in range of Academia Surpremus!!", Elizabeth soon said inside the transport with her at the monitor and other assistants prepping the armor.
"45 Seconds...? Why is my day doesn't get any better!", Ven soon said to himself.
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Rabite
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Emperor of H
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Post by Rabite on Oct 3, 2012 23:06:23 GMT -6
"Oh? Well then good for you, that will be one less problem to be concerned about, am I correct?"
He gives William a pat on the shoulder as if to congratulate him, but in his mind he doubt that will be the end of it. But at least on the surface he's showing agreement with the job William has done.
"Though I should advise that you should keep it to only your must trusted friends and followers, you never know if there's anyone listening to your conversations."
He turns and look at the surroundings, and only stopping for a smile when he was looking towards Esmeralda's direction. To give the message that she's not as well hidden as she thought she was, but that he's not going to have anything against her just for that.
"Anyways, let us talk about more casual things shall we? What do you think about my companions here?"
He put his arms around them, as if to show off his prized processions. After a bit of poking and revealing, it's time to change the subject to smooth any edges the conversation might have created, and what could be easier than talking about women?
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