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Post by Pitman on Apr 6, 2014 22:03:17 GMT -6
Neville soon heard her favor he soon thought about it, about Kollelkost he soon thought for a moment. The man wouldn't budge for any favor from one of higher nobility. In fact he suspected he rather be more commoner then noble.
"Hrmm I can try, though no guarantees Mary. From what I seen of the man he would be no easy feat, but... I can 'think of something'.", Neville replied which in his thought, that something has to be very good and already began formulating a plan.
As he heard his sister ask he soon wondered if he should tell her. If he did she may help in making their dear old brother's blood boil further but if he didn't she will not stop nagging him for the rest of the time here. This of course involved their family and he too wondered if actually making this public would cause a scandal or even hurt the Rorke boy in the end. Making his own decision he soon says, "Ah sister its a secret but I will give you a hint. It involves our dear niece Princess Keiana and it could be end out very badly. Or very good?"
If one read between the lines it meant that Keiana was likely getting involved with someone either of lower station or something scandalous. In fact that hint was given further proof as Neville's head nodded toward the top where one could see Asher Rorke alone who had a hand on his head for a brief moment.
'Who knew the boy had that much ambition in him. Or is it something else entirely? Asher Rorke, show me this potential, show me what one called one of 'them' is capable of.', Neville soon thought as he already figured out something.
With Asher
His head soon relax, but Asher felt much better. Whatever that pressure was he didn't know and something was telling him he should run far away from the Princess. His gut was telling him that but something else making him want to get closer, like a forbidden fruit that simply was too deli- wait no cannot think that way!! Asher fixed himself up and soon began to walk down it was getting late and he had tomorrow to prepare. With so much that happened today he was exhausted and he needed to figure out this Merlin and Igor. Now with the Princess fixated in his mind was not helping. As he walked down he noticed that man James Gransela was being taken home earlier, likely unable to take a drink. As he walked he soon also noticed Merlin and Igor having a crowd around them, which made him think that either the nobles were too drunk that they thought them entertainment. Or were fascinated by them with their different clothing and what they talked about.
"Merlin, Igor we are leaving.", Asher soon said which the two men soon nodded.
"Well my lord's my time is done I must depart to rest for the night. I may hope to see you all at this... Trial of the Dragon!", Merlin said half drunk with Igor practically dragging him away.
As they both followed Asher he soon turned his face and saw the Mountain King and some woman staring at him before averting their eyes. He wondered about that but continued out through the door, as he left the hallways and out of the Citadel back into town he had a feeling. That feeling someone was watching but thought none of it, as the days events clouded his mind.
Neville
"So what you think sister?", Neville asked wondering if she had any opinion.
Elsewhere
"Hrmm... so another shows up on the door step.", a man soon said with a hood over his face.
"Hey, hey, hey!! We are not to be seen, we were told to only watch.", another hooded figure soon managed to say.
"Viven, it is fine, your a participate in this Trial after all. It is just strange we end up finding not one but two of their kind near the Princess within this city.", the hooded figure soon said.
"Hey don't say my name!! If I am seen by anyone near you it could lead to problems. Regardless only James Gransela and Arvel Dunbar will be problematic.", Viven Choel soon said with a shrug.
"That is so, still I feel we have another problem we can capitalize on. For now just act normal, 'we' will only assist when the need is required.", the hooded man soon said turning around leaving the woman alone.
"Why does he always says that. Not like this Rorke has much experience and I can easily defeat him.", Viven said over confidently.
Well the hooded man continued he continued on his way to his destination soon coming up to a door he knocked a certain way. The door opened which he prompted to show his pocket watch, which had an cross connected to an anchor of some kind and an eye at the middle of the cross. Entering he soon whispers to himself, "That is why so many fail my fear and why we will only help those for our progress."
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Apr 6, 2014 23:18:48 GMT -6
"I look forward to seeing the outcome." She responded, catching his ponderous look. She already knew that this was a good idea, one of the two would end up knocked down a peg. That was something she'd enjoy watching, whatever the outcome was. It was certain to be amusing.
As for the secret, she ran her fingers through her hair, pushing it out of the way she that her eyes could clearly see the balcony, and the kid Neville came in with. "Ah, I see." Mary eventually noted, concluding that this trial would be very interesting indeed.
And to think she almost didn't make it. She really would need to give Cadan some comeuppance.
"I think that this is going to be an interesting year." The Queen replied at last, almost prophetically. "According to that rock of a margave, 'may you live in interesting times' is considered an insult in some faraway lands. Let us hope that, for us, it is a boon."
After that she turned her head away when Asher noticed their staring, not wanting to make a scene. "That is one of the contestants from your region, yes? He looks so lost. Like a child his first time at sea. Careful that he isn't set adrift." Again was remarked by Mary, more or less concluding what was going on, and offering her advise. Reading further between the lines, she presumed the mountain king had more interest in him than as a subordinate to bring him in here like he did.
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Post by Pitman on Apr 6, 2014 23:41:50 GMT -6
"Possibly but that is not mind to worry about, the strong survive the weak die from it. Still being son of Hero Dragoon Achmetha Rorke and his wife Dragooness Regina Dahut may itself be a blessing or curse. The year itself already is interesting, our brother must be fuming or plotting his revenge against me. Never the less I am prepared nor I will allow our uncle Koeff to get his way at all.", Neville soon said preparing to leave as the time to leave was here.
"Sister I do hope you enjoy your stay at the capital, something tells me things are about to change. Tell Lord Kollelkost I send my regards.", Neville said kissing his sister's hand then nodded to his guards.
Soon him and the others soon left the ball room to leave the queen to her own devices.
High King Kylan
"Damn him!! Damn that man to hell!!", Kylan said in private his advisers were worried he was about to burst a blood vessel.
"Your Majesty please calm down we can handle this!!", one adviser remarked.
"No we can easily fix this problem!!", another soon suggested.
"Bah!! To hell all of you!! My brother comes and disrespects me and even my sister too in her entrance with Lord Kollelkost!! They need to be taught a lesson and it must be done during the Trial!!", The High King ordered.
"Well well I never thought I see you in this story state.", a voice soon said walking into the room.
"Its not my fault!! Now what news you bring me?", the High King soon asked.
The man had brown colored hair and was wearing a eye patch over his right eye. On his hand one could note it was pissing an arm but replaced by a mechanical one.
"The Trial is set your majesty, I have personally set it all up in your name.", the mysterious man soon said with a bow.
"Good Good, as the Judge of this Trial one must oversee all is set accordingly to the rules. Though I do say I got an idea if you like to hear, Sir Rafulton.", Kylan soon said to the man before him, as he had done Trials for the last two decades.
"Oh? What does this idea pertain? I do hope its not against the rules that we abide by.", Sir Rafulton requested.
"Since my brother is in town why not make this Trial one that is a tad bit more extreme then the last?", Kylan suggested which brought the Judge's eye perked up.
"And what sort of extreme you want? I mean we cannot break traditions or rules.", the man asked.
The High King soon drank another drink of wine, he was furious and when he was this much he would drink endlessly.
"Its simple, change it from current rules set to go back to pre Kylan the IV era rules.", Kylan then suggested which even made the Advisers soon stop in their tracks.
"But your majesty to go back to those rules also increases likelihood of..", the adviser was saying which Sir Rafulton finished, "Death. It increase the death rate from 1% to 50%, as it allows the participates to kill their fellow Apprentice Dragoons. An old rule that only the strong live and the weak die, that your grandfather said was barbaric and ruined talent of all Dragoons."
"Indeed, we go back to the old rules and allow them to kill each other.", Kylan said with a smirk.
"But why would- oh I see you want both Paemir Region boys to die and leave no current Dragoon to their family? It also means the Mountain King loses a pawn correct?", Rafulton soon asked.
"Yes. You saw how he brought that boy with him? As well that Validar Bachelet was too smug with my son spreading his fancy stories. Yes as well it would lead to show my power I have over the Clan's Dragoons and they can't defy me. A Lesson will be learned and I want both dead to throw that smug off my brother's face.", Kylan said which Sir Rafulton soon bowed.
"It will be done by your command my liege.", he soon said as he then left the room.
"Brother, I am better... I am better... you are not... I am High King and you are nothing.", Kylan muttered to himself as he drank another whole cup of wine.
Sir Rafulton
"That man is crazy.", he soon muttered under his breath. Sir Rafulton Pots was an older soldier who fought against the Rebellion thus losing his eye and right arm in the process. If it wasn't for Achmetha Rorke he could of been dead but to think now he has been ordered to kill that man's son. A dilemma which he now had to do slight changes, but even so it might be defying the High King but he saw the boy only an innocent casualty. Walking down the hallway he soon says, "You can come out now, Princess."
Keiana soon walked out of the shadows with a sigh then replies, "So is it true?"
"What is and how you heard it?", Sir Rafulton soon asked.
"You forget I watch my beloved father when he does something stupid. Even now he hasn't figured out about me only you and my brother know. Now please Sir Rafulton is it true?", Keiana asked.
"Yes, though I dislike the idea it is.", Rafulton soon admitted.
"I see... Sir Rafulton I will handle this do not worry just do your duty. I will do what I can from my end.", Keiana then admitted.
"As you wish my princess.", the older knight bowed to the princess then took his leave.
As he walked and knew she was already gone he soon mutters, "She would make a more sly Queen then the likes of her brother. Princess what are you playing at and why get close to that Rorke boy?"
With this he left and the next day would come to bring the next set of problems.
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Apr 6, 2014 23:59:18 GMT -6
"Strong and weak are matters of perspective, dear brother. That is the failing of that philosophy. Do take care of yourself and be mindful, and I do not only refer to those beyond the border." Mary said and waved as Neville's party departed.
Once she was left alone Cadan returned within a moment's time, nursing a glass of wine that he was currently more interested in swirling about in the bottom of the glass than drinking. "All done catching up?"
"For the moment." She answered, saying nothing of the plan.
"You got a place to stay in the trials?"
"As a member of the Lamont clan, yes."
"Sucks, have fun alone with the mucky-mucks. I'll be bunking down in me ship, much safer, better company too."
Mary gave him an unamused glare.
"I'm kidding, you can come. Can't have you getting stabbed by any angry nobles and having my own reputation being stained."
"How thoughtful of you."
Kasorymor pushed his mask up just enough to sneak the glass under it, and drained it summarily. "What can I say, I'm an honest man."
"...of a sort."
"The best sort. You coming, or sticking around? Because I'm tired of mingling."
"I suppose I shall accompany."
With that said the pair of them, and Cadan's escort, departed the grand hall to wait for the next day and whatever it might bring.
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Post by Pitman on Apr 7, 2014 1:59:13 GMT -6
The Next Day 10AM
It was another day in the capital, commoners going about their business, and other assortments of things. Regardless right now there was a man a man who to certain people as annoying. Alas after he jumped the Mansion and climbed into James Gransela's room it would seem like a lovers visit. But of course it was not it was just Arvel Dunbar from the northern part of the kingdom who has befriended James Gransela some how. Actually it all began with a chicken, a tent, and a bit of a quarrel. Regardless it was forever in their lives since childhood this man of the north was both friends but also hated rivals within the Dragoon aspects of life. Speaking of that the man was soon screaming into his ear to wake up, being a man who doesn't hold his alcohol well.
"HEY!! James Gransela!! Hey Wake up now you goodie to shoes!!", Arvel Dunbar soon shouted directly into James ear.
"Wake up or I will take Florina for myself!!", Arvel added though he didn't mean it. It was good to see the other teen's reaction to it.
With Asher 6AM
As Asher has been up since 6am it was expected a man who constantly drilled in his head to get up regardless of how fatigued one was. This of course was one of the reasons he napped under a tree on a daily basis, still Asher was physically fit enough so his muscles could be seen by anyone if they saw under his shirt. Still the day came and he knew it was two more days til the actual Trial, this was called during after the Opening Ceremony time of preparation. For participates either they train or meet other Apprentice Dragoons to either cut deals or attempt to get rid of someone, though as of the Kylan The Fourth's Rule Set one couldn't kill each other during this time. Already outside he took out his twin blade short swords, unlike most his techniques were different, whereas most of Zalborian weapon training was use of broadswords or rapiers his was from the natural Paemir Region way. Though normally it is one sword not two like him, as well he is trained to use two revolvers at once due to this to keep each arm the same as the other. The reason for training shorter swords over longer ones in the region was common knowledge in the region. With the rise of the rifle it became a practice with shorter blades long enough to be considered a short sword but small enough to be put on ones rifle. As well with many of the trained of the Paemir constant raids into Imperial lands lead to this to become the norm and expected. Slaying down after an hour of doing this behind the hotel some were watching this and other ignored him.
After all the preparation time was seen both as a time to prepare but also the commoners simply went to more games. In fact it was more of a festival then a right of passage. As Asher finished up he soon came back inside which a man soon approached him.
"My I ask is your name Asher Rorke I presume?", the man soon asked, who looked more butler then messenger.
"I may, why ask?", Asher soon asked.
"I have a message for you, my master wishes to meet you within the Path's Cathedral at 11AM Sharp. It is of great importance my good gentleman, you may bring any form of defense if you wish so please be on time. Good day.", the butler man said then left.
"11AM? What is going on?", Asher soon thought as he wondered if would go.
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Apr 7, 2014 2:16:59 GMT -6
The alcohol did affect James somewhat, so he only stirred around in his sleep when Arvel came in. But when Arvel yelled Florina's name, it was a different story. James woke up from his sleep, and deliver a quick punch towards the possible enemy, just to stop at the last moment when he notice that it was Arvel. Not quite sure if he's happy to see a friend or angry at being waken up, he pushes the other man back slightly so he could get up from his bed, then looks at the sudden intruder.
"I swear one of these days I wouldn't be able to stop in time and put a sword through your guts..."
He holds his head for a few moments to mend a light headache that he got from the alcohol, and from suddenly waking up. A few moments after Yumi comes charging into the room, wondering if there are any intruders. She had a look of concern on her face, a bit worried about James' safety. But after she saw it was Arvel she sheaths her sword, she bows to him slightly as a greet as she recovers and puts back on her usual, more neutral look though with more emotion than when she were facing a visitor.
"Lord Dunbar, I would really appreciate if you don't sneak into the Lord's room. If were in the room I might have mistaken you for an assassin... I think we've had this conversation before, since years ago."
If James were in his normal condition, and somehow did not wake up when Arvel sneak into the room, Yumi might have just struck down the intruder without checking who it was. But it's rare for such enemies to get pass the regular personal guards, let alone Yumi herself.
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Apr 7, 2014 2:33:00 GMT -6
The footfalls of boots were the first thing both Cadan and Mary heard upon awakening, the source being the sailors on the ship switching shifts. Those up all night were replaced by others waking up just like them. They weren't in the same room, but the quarters were all clustered fairly tightly together. Usually the officers would have their own separate area, but this was not the case here. A pair of loud thumps against the bulkhead moved progressively down the hall as one of the ship's staff made sure to rouse everyone. The queen got up handily, a bit jittery at all the pounding and stomping. Kasorymor, who was used to this, didn't budge until two solid raps on his door sent him turning over, and only then with his sleep ruined, rousing himself to stand.
There was a long pause before he exited his quarters for the hallway, where Mary was waiting for him with hands on her hips. It was gonna be a long day.
"I do not know how you managed to sleep on this."
"It's a talent. Be glad we didn't dive, it gets even worse when you're 1000 feet below and the pressure makes the hull creak. That's what sends chills up the spines of the fresh fish." Cadan chuckled while replying, having seen this a thousand times before in all the recruits.
"And it's cramped. It makes the city look spacious."
"Well there you go, see? Now you know to be thankful." The margrave said. Both turned to leave in unison, the men parting to let the pair through as they headed for the air lock.
"That is not the word I would use. None the less, the trial is today I do believe."
"Sure is. You placing any bets?"
"That remains to be seen."
After walking down the ship's gangplank and back onto the harbor's boardwalk, the duo moved back into the city proper to partake in the festivities ahead. As before, several gwithysi followed on Cadan's heel just to be on the safe side.
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Post by Pitman on Apr 7, 2014 5:04:04 GMT -6
"Ah but James you will never be such a slow one!! Your always stopping just in time, just like that time in the bath house when you were pe-", Arvel soon was saying til Yumi soon appeared which he stopped himself from saying more. "That talk years ago? I believe the talk involved me being no longer in one piece!! That is why I climbed through the window!", Arvel soon said like it was nothing. That itself was an exaggeration as most no almost one could can climb that good, except Arvel could back at home he climbed many times. Nothing would deter him it all began when he was little and wanted that large pie that they made, but it was in some place too high so he did the best thing one can do. He climbed up til he could grab it, ah sweet childhood not only an eternal climbing freak but self proclaimed eternal rival to James Gransela. Of course he would never dare kill him in fact it was the best idea he ever thought. To be strong one must make another who is just as strong as your rival, even if it meant near death situations by that said rivals personal guard. Speaking of that rival's personal guard, "Ah my dear sweet Yumi I almost forgot how good you look this morning. I take you had your usual morning exercise and your usual... uhh face." Soon after he waited for James to get up to get ready then suddenly began to ponder why he went to wake him up this morning, though a tad bit late. "Hrmm... now why was I bothering James again? Oh right now I remember!! James this is big news!! I heard from a friend who is friend with a friend who's cousin's girlfriend who so happens to be sister to a guard said something quite interesting!! Its big too big that they haven't announced it yet!! Wait what was it again? Oh!", Arvel exclaimed in a bit worried voice as he paced around in circles. Which he soon stopped then says, "That big announcement their announcing an announcement at 12PM in the square is what I heard but what it is... I dunno but they said was to affect the Trial. That is all I know." Figures he totally forgot what the announcement was about, so Arvel may be a good contender at being a Dragoon but admit it he was kinda of an idiot sometimes. "Oh by the way why you touching your head? Don't tell me you drunk again. You do realize you cannot hold your liquor well. Reminds me of th- no I shouldn't say in front of ladies in the room.", Arvel then finished. Neville"Damn that man.", Neville soon said as he threw a book out the window into the streets. "Sir it is true after we interrogated that guard, he managed to found out what they plan to do.", Kennocha said with her uniform on except the cloak as inside without it seemed a tad bit over dressed. "To think he would blandly risk not just a few but all participates just to get back at me. Hah I knew he was a fool to be this foolish he is only digging his own grave at this rate.", Neville said looking out the broken window into the city. "There must be something we can do possibly-", Kennocha soon said but was cut off by Neville, "No, that itself would risk too much too soon. As well it could bring harm to the others. No we will let this slide for now but instead opt for a back up plan if need be." "But your majesty!!", Kennocha soon requested as she was truly worried for her brother and cousin. "I know your worried about your kin. But if we move now it would look like we are interfering in manners not under our jurisdiction. For now we will wait and instead bide our time, if this backfires heavily on him it would make my brother seem weaker then ever before. If so other clans will take advantage of the situation, raiding other trade routes and continue on this lands degradation into nothingness. No we will wait til his power bases slowly corrodes, then we will pounce. My brother's betrayal to our family cannot continue like this and the likes of my uncle Koeff make it problematic. He and his rats will want to use up my brother til he is nothing then will move on to the next King and my nephew will become the next pawn. For now we cannot do anything we will wait and form alliances, I will not let this kingdom fall further under the weak ruler ship of a King who is a fool and an uncle who is greedy. I will save Zalboria and I will save my family from this decay. Even if we must kill thousands to do so.", Neville said looking at the city before him. AsherAsher soon got ready to head out, he gathered his weapons then left the hotel. One could see many people were enjoying the festivities throughout the whole day but he has to meet this master, to see whatever they wanted. He soon came up to the main street and downed passing the stands to each quarter. He continued walking this way til he finally got from the commoner quarter to the noble quarter, then finally the Path's Quarter. Looking around Asher recognized many people in robes on their hoods were the symbol of the Path. The People represented the symbol that the Hero fought against the Red Comet all those centuries ago. As he passed he soon came on to the Great Bell that was always in front of any Cathedral, it was said to be vanguard of the gods against the Zeonic Demons from so long ago. Walking the steps he soon entered the great doors which lead to the main cathedral. One could hear chorus singing in the background practicing in the top and as well give music to a few patrons. Walking up he soon dropped a few Doria into the prayer box, a tradition one must give when entering. He soon looked but saw hardly anyone in and then simply stood as a bench. He sat there for only ten minutes when he felt his head hurt a moment as the hooded person walked up then sat right next to him. "I take your the master of that butler?", Asher soon whispered to turn to see who it was which almost took him aback. "Of course I always have a way of doing things.", Keiana soon said with a smirk though the hood over her head covered her face. Turning to see if anyone is watching Asher panicked for a moment then whispers, "What are you doing here?!" "Seeing you sir Asher Rorke, what else would a Princess of the crown be in the Path Cathedral? Its not mass nor I am getting married.", Keiana soon said at Asher's dismay. "You know meeting me like this could lead heads rolling right?", Asher soon stated like it was fact. "True but this is important sir Asher, it will determine if you live or you die.", Keiana soon replied in a dead serious tone. Asher soon saw this then listen intently, "What is it Prin-" "Out here just call me Kei, no one knows I am out here.", Keiana then said who seemed to know something was afoot. "Alright, Kei what is going on?", Asher soon asked. "The rules have been changed.", Keiana stated knowing time as short. "Rules? What rules? What you do mean by that?", Asher soon asked. "The rules of the Trial, I heard my father he is planning to go back to rules set before my great grandfather's proclamation. I tried to talk him out of it but he is adamant on this. Asher he is doing this to get back at my uncle Neville. He is doing this... to... to.. get you and your cousin Validar Bachelet to die in the Trial.", Keiana admitted. "Your joking, no King is that foolish enough...", Asher was saying til he saw into Keiana's beautiful eyes which entrapped him. "Your being serious huh.", Asher soon said as he realizes what was happening. "Obviously.", she simply replied. 'Wait if this is true... then by being saved by the Mountain King has only caused. No... this is my fault!!'Asher's face soon began to pale which he realized what he just done, he might be the cause of bigger trouble then he even realized. Keiana noticed this and she began to shake him to get him back to normal but it didn't work. Suddenly a flash of a face was before him as her lips linked into his own then everything went black only a brief moment. 'Snap out of it!!', a voice said which Asher noticed he was in some weird place. It was not normal it was different from the Path's Cathedral. 'Where am I?', Asher soon said then suddenly his eyes soon began to see where he was. "What... what was that.", Asher managed to say as after Keiana's lips unlocked from his own. She soon gets up then says, "You will understand in time... just awaken it and you will understand it all. So you better or you will die." She promptly leaves him alone to his own devices, which he soon got up where he stood. He then began walking out of the Cathedral only to pass someone who was also in a robe in the main aisle. "That is interesting Asher Rorke. Does a Princess' lips taste so good?", the hooded figure said which Asher promptly put his hand on his gun in his pocket but was beaten to the punch. Another gun unlike his own was an automatic pistol a newer and more expensive kind. But of course one that have tenacity to jam. "Who are you.", Asher soon demanded in a low voice. "Its not important in fact you will be seeing me very soon. Just so you know I don't believe you a threat, just a warning. When you get close to the sun it will burn you to death.", the hooded woman soon said. "Oh? Maybe I just like going into the sun a lot.", Asher soon replied. "Hah, a dangerous sense of humor. Fine I will tell you my name since we will be meeting each other on the battlefield. It is Vivien Choel", Viven soon said as she soon put her gun away. "Vivien Choel, don't tell me, related to The Butcher of the Choel Clan?", Asher soon stated. "Correct to be precise The Butcher is my father. I do hope we meet again in the Trial, let's see if the son of the Hero Dragoon Achmetha Rorke has what it takes to take on the Butcher's daughter.", Vivien soon said as she soon walked away. As she disappeared Asher soon shrugged then says, "Great first learning about the old rules set are back and the daughter of The Butcher appears. Just my luck. Asher soon departs as the time of the announcement he was expecting to be announced to the other participates.
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Rabite
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Post by Rabite on Apr 7, 2014 14:39:00 GMT -6
"Sweet talk won't work with me, Lord Dunbar."
It's quite true, besides her usual calm attitude, she's already used to getting similar praises and stares from nearby passersby. But mostly it came from her lord James, who seems to have made it one of his hobby to crack open the layer of ice that she had set between herself and others.
"She's right, if I can only do it once every while, you won't have a chance at all."
James replies after taking a sip of water, then sits back on a chair and turns to Arvel.
"Well, you're here for something, lets hear it? I'm not treating you to breakfast today so tough luck with that."
He would have if they're in Gransela, where James is in charge, but technically he is a guest while he is staying here at the mansion so that's not an option. The talk about something related to the trial got his attention, but got him to hold his forehead again after hearing that Arvel forgot what it was.
"You came here to tell me something important, yet you forgot about it? I might have to reconsider the price of the next few carts of meat to Dunbar..."
Meat is one of the most important resource of Gransela, and much of the meat used by nobles and merchants are from there, providing a large percentage of meat market so he uses it as a threat sometimes. But Arvel seems to have not heard it and starts talking about how he couldn't hold off his liquor, so James decided that he's had enough of his friend for now, and give a look at Yumi whose been standing behind them.
"Well, I appreciate the advice, even if it wasn't deliver... but now if you excuse me I would have to meet with the lord for breakfast. Yumi, kindly show Arvel the door out. I'll see you later at the trial."
"Understood, this way, Lord Dunbar."
The tone of her voice and the look of her face tells that it would be much better for your health if you don't argue against it, the same kind of look when she caught the two of them trying to sneak a peek on her during a shower, more scary than fighting an army if you ask James.
Though Arvel is a bit annoying, he don't hate the guy, in fact he is quite happy to see others around the same age talking to him like a normal friend. But he'd rather not keep the bothersome friend around all day so he could disrupt James' usual schedules, after all his lord is his possible future father-in-law, or so he hopes.
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Richter
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Post by Richter on Apr 7, 2014 19:01:07 GMT -6
((I'll go ahead and pass since I don't have much to do, but assume my characters are going to see the announcement as well.))
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Post by Pitman on Apr 8, 2014 1:51:55 GMT -6
"Its not sweet talk it is the truth!!", Arvel replied to Yumi.
Soon after James leaving Arvel soon sighed then begins to follow Yumi to the door to leave. As he was walking he soon says to her, "Yumi, the announcement, it is to follow the old rule set from pre Kylan The Fourth Era. You better watch his back even more now, even if he doesn't know it, because already there is others who got the information and already planning their next move. I have already expecting an attack on me, thus why I moved away from where I was staying to visit here. Before you ask why I didn't say it there, he needs to be in a good mood with his Lord, right?"
Soon he left the mansion not expecting a reply as he moved into the crowds to 'disappear' for a while.
Asher
Asher made his way through the crowds of people, keeping himself on guard the entire time. Looking around he noticed everything seemed fine but he felt something was wrong in the crowds, looking to his left he noticed someone in a hood of the same as the Path's talking to someone but noticed their eyes on him. He turned left and noticed the same thing which only meant one thing.
'I see, so the contestants who have been informed in advance must be already targeting me. After all, Validar and I are the reasons huh.', Asher thought as he acted like he didn't notice them. Moving swiftly it was getting not too far to the time they will want people to gather at the main square. Moving quickly he noted those men before were following him.
'Figures... well let's see on a merry chase.', Asher thought as he moved more quickly and made a sharp turn. Within an instant he began to run kicking on a wall to help jump on a box to the other side of a wall. He then quickly moved after he landed and headed directly into the festivities section. Moving and dodging people without thought he continued to move this way to hope to lose his tail. Once it seemed he lost him he soon didn't see where he was going to ran into a person which he noted fell to the ground then says, "Sorry!"
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Rabite
Veteran Member
Emperor of H
Hey, look over here.
Posts: 1,887
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Post by Rabite on Apr 8, 2014 2:39:24 GMT -6
Indeed Yumi did not reply to the information that she received from Arvel, instead she simply bow towards the direction that Arvel left at to show her gratitude. By the time she returns to James' room, he's done dressed up and ready to meet his lord.
"I trust that he told you something didn't he?"
James and Arvel knew each other for years, it wasn't too difficult to see that Arvel was hiding something underneath that act of his, which was exactly why he sent Yumi to see him off instead of just getting a servant to do so. Yumi nods and relay the information, but James doesn't seem too affected by the news.
"Hm, a lot of work done just to take care of some small fries... no matter, it's still not as tough as a real battle. It might scare off those that rely on the strength and wealth of their clans, but it won't work as well against those with experience."
It might be difficult, but he's not willing to back down, he's only got one chance to get to the top and he's going to take it. But leaving that aside, he decides to ask about something that concerns him more than just the trial.
"Say, did Florina arrive yet? The Lord said she'll be here today?"
"The Lady arrived late last night, I'm told she would be joining in the breakfast."
That's all he had to hear, quickly he straightens his clothes a bit and leaves his room, heading towards the dining room. He was a bit early since Arvel woke him up, but he stood on the side and watch as the servants prepare the meal. A few moments later after his arrival, a young woman around his age enters the room.
"Good morning Florina!"
"Hm? Ah good morning to you too James."
The young woman is Florina of Exion, daughter of Duke Exion, and one of the few reasons why James gave his loyalty to Exion. She's well known in the South for her beauty and talent, skilled in both economic works and art, and is called the Amethyst of Exion by some people for such reasons. Florina seems a bit tired from her journey here, but have rested enough to keep it from showing, it would be difficult to notice without a close inspection.
"I heard you have arrived late, hopefully you got enough rest."
"It was a bit tiring, but I got some rest on the way here, so that helped a lot. How about you? Are you prepared for the trial today?"
"Of course, be sure to watch when it gets to my turn."
The two chat for a few moments before Charles enters the room, who noticed the two have already arrived.
"Good morning, my Lord."
"Good morning Father."
"The same to you two too... I expected the two of you to sleep in a bit later, one of you being tired from the trip, and the other passed out from a few drinks. Haha, don't worry James, I'm not blaming you for anything."
James was about to apologize for not staying longer as a part of his duty, but he was assured that it wasn't a problem, so he just replies with a nod.
"Now let us start the meal, we have a long day ahead of us."
The table was done setting up while James and Florina was chatting, so by the time Charles arrived it would be ready for dining. The three sat down and have a warm breakfast, after that Florina excused herself to get a bit more rest, while James tells Charles what he got from Arvel.
"I got news from other sources too, it was forced through before anyone could react, and it's too late to change it back now. It'll be up to you James, I would understand if you want to quit from the trial."
"No, it's already, I'll keep going just as planned."
"You sure? It could always be done next year, don't over exert yourself."
James just nods to confirm his choice, seeing that he can't convince the young follower, Charles stops trying to change his mind and instead goes to see what he could do to help James during the trial. James returns to his room and prepare for the start of the trial.
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Richter
Veteran Member
Posts: 1,870
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Post by Richter on Apr 8, 2014 3:00:23 GMT -6
Kasorymor and company were trying to make good time, and it wasn't working. The center of town was packed even on a slow day, and this occasion was anything but sluggish. The commoners were out in force, more eager than ever because of the news of some announcement. Someone in the top echelons let it slip to the wrong person that something about the trials was going to be proclaimed today, something big. It had everyone fired up. While the scandals and power plays of the nobility were usually things most people didn't get involved in, it always made a nice show when these secret wars were drug out into the limelight. Sometimes on accident, sometimes on purpose, because firing up the commoners enough could topple the best entrenched of leaders.
Needless to say, Cadan's interest was very piqued. So was Mary's, the woman already having an idea of what was going to happen. She had a keen sense of prediction, so much so he sometimes wondered if she wasn't psychic. The unwed oracle joke was a favorite of his, it never ceased to get a rise out of her. But in truth, he wondered if there wasn't something to it.
"So what do you think this is?" The margrave asked as the pair of them muscled through the crowds at a speed even his guards were hard pressed to follow.
"Obviously the king plans to lash out at Neville." She responded.
"Kinda childish isn't it?" Cadan replied with yet another question. Mary didn't hear it over the racket, and motioned to an ear to detail that problem visually. Cadan sighed and jerked a thumb towards a side road that lead away from the center of town. For that reason it was almost empty, save for a few roadside merchant stalls. The group pushed through the press of bodies to get there.
"Much better, I swear people in this city do not bathe. This is why I never miss Zaltium." Mary complained, now free of the masses of peasants.
"They're called dirt farmers and factory workers, Mary, maybe you've heard of them. Hard workers." Cadan chided.
She rolled her eyes, while Cadan leaned against a building. His guards moved to keep a small perimeter, a few sitting down on steps or barrels left outside.
"As I was saying, no way he'd be dumb enough to screw the trial up just to try and put Neville down."
"You overestimate him." She coldly retorted.
Cadan's expression was unreadable due to the mask, but body language betrayed he wasn't too impressed with the situation. "Why not just send an assassin or a bomb? Would be easier. I mean, if he's going to go all out might as well actually cut off the loose end. Not like anyone is going to be fooled after last night."
"Again, you overestimate him."
"How did he take the throne, exactly?"
The Queen merely shook her head.
Right about now labored footfalls could be heard, causing the entire group to look down the street in the direction they were approaching from. None other than Asher hooked out of an alley and onto their lane, rushing in and ramming right into one of the soldiers that was currently occupied reading a small book. Both toppled over, along with the barrel the Gwithyas was formerly seated on.
Cadan immediately grabbed Asher by the collar and yanked him up into the air without breaking a sweat.
"Well well, what have we got here?" The sailor asked and actually looked closer once the shock of the moment wore off. The various guards all jumped to their feet as well, not knowing what to expect.
"It's the child Neville brought." Mary noted at the same moment the recognition hit Cadan.
"Oh yeah, the dragoon to be. What the hell are you doing? You were about 10 feet from running into that crowd and getting trampled." He said, nodding over his shoulder to the commoners still moving here and there.
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Post by Pitman on Apr 8, 2014 3:18:34 GMT -6
As Asher turned to see who they were he soon recognized Margrave Cadan Kasorymor who soon grabbed him which he had his hand on his revolver the entire time. As he noticed the others around he saw they were sailors, which in Asher's mind went from being chased to now into a bunch of hard lived Sailors.
"Well I guess they say from the boiling pot into an icy lake.", Asher soon said which he soon said with a grin.
"Lord Kollelkost I presume, but man you are pretty strong for a fellow that is rumored to be one hundred and sixteen years old.", Asher soon said which was true, it was a bit strong for an 'old man'
"Anyways what brings me running into your guys, sorry about that. Uhh for that answer enjoying running through the crowd?", Asher asked which the face didn't change behind that mask which Asher then says, "No then? Uhh.. oh."
Asher was saying til he noticed the men he was running from was heading into his directly quickly. He began to feel ill intenion which what lead him notice in their hands were only one thing he knew could only be one type of object and the weapon was aimed not at him but Cadan.
"Err lookout!!", Asher shouted as he pushed the man down as he took out his revolver as the enemy's gun fire missed Cadan's head just in time. He soon responded with his own gun firing at the man putting three rounds into him who soon fell.
Suddenly people screamed as he quickly grabbed both him and Mary into a stand to take cover. Gun fire and even weird small pistols that were giving off automatic fire which was unheard of could be heard.
"God damn it they got those experimental weapons too? What is with people having stuff that shouldn't exist!!", Asher shouted as he soon fired back at the assailants. There was at least two dozen of them all converging on them.
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Richter
Veteran Member
Posts: 1,870
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Post by Richter on Apr 8, 2014 4:31:49 GMT -6
Cadan and Mary were bowled over by Asher as the group followed hot on the kid's heels. The first shot missed, and his guards ran for cover immediately when they realized what was going down.
"Look out, they're armed!" One of the soldiers yelled as he dove around a corner, the others following suit on both sides of the street. One got nailed by a bullet and toppled over, the armor stopping the worst of the damage, but the force from it was still enough to take a man off his feet if he wasn't ready for the impact. His buddies that weren't fallen drug him into a safer position to recover.
Automatic fire chattered loudly, shouts following as the few people on this road ran to be clear of the fire fight. Which it did infact become, when both Asher and the Gwithysi returned the shots. They stayed low behind stairways, market stands, and low walls to protect themselves, snapping off rounds from their own sidearms to pepper the robed assailants. The assassins were all pouring down one street, so the guards had them in a pincer of sorts.
Cadan cursed, rolling onto his feet. Mary kept her head down and crawled a few feet away from him and Asher to take shelter in an alley where no stray shots would come her way.
"Son of a bitch, they have automatics." Kasorymor cursed as he slipped an even stranger looking pistol out of a holster on his hip. It had a long tapering barrel, straight grip, and a few wires snaking from one point to another. The entire thing was crafted to resemble a sea serpent.
He noted the comment on weapons that shouldn't exist, and gave a single, dry "ha" in reaction. "You think those are bad? Wait until you see this. Or don't, I'd look away if you don't want to be blind."
Cadan leaned a few inches out of cover, just enough to shoot, and aimed his sidearm at a group of attackers, a brilliant lance of light stretching out from the muzzle a millisecond after the trigger was pulled. The laser would probably burn right through the if it hit man and ignite him if he didn't have some reflective or heat-resistant armor. Then he drug the beam horizontally, aiming to cut through a few more.
"You attacked the wrong group!"
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